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We used EZ Pads. The prep work is making sure the location is level. I cleared off the grass in a fairly level spot about 8'-6" square, then built a 2x4x8'-1" (clear dimension) wooden sand form which I hoed a hole to allow it to drop down 1" on the 4" side. I filled the next 1.5" with about 15 bags of sand, leveled the sand, leaving 1" to place the EZ Pad so it sticks up above the wood about 1". I was given a quote of $800 to pour a pad, not sure who was doing the prep work for that price. If they did all the prep work for it, it may have been worth it. As it is, I saved close to $400. Doing the EZ Pad.
also in many areas because they are considered permanent, concrete pads require permits