Decks

Yes, a building permit is required to build a deck and to rebuild an existing deck.

In the following circumstances a permit is not required:

the deck is not part of the principal entrance into the dwelling: and
the deck is not more than two feet (24”) above final grade at any point; and
the deck is not covered with a roof; and
the deck is not attached to the dwelling; and
where an existing deck (previously approved under a building permit) requires only non-structural minor repairs.

Step 1: Plan your location

A site plan is required for all applications. Follow the steps below to submit a correct site plan and minimize application processing times.

Understand your location restrictions

Fill out a zoning request form and submit to the Planning Department to find out the property setbacks from lot edges, waterways and possible hazards to consider.

Prepare a site plan

A site plan should:

Preferably be drawn on a real property report, plot plan, or graph paper

A site plan must include:

North arrow
Property address
Corresponding streets and avenues
Dimensions of property lines
Location, measurements, building height, and setbacks of proposed and existing buildings and structures to property lines and any water features
Location of any water features such as creek(s), and/or lake(s)
Identify applicable caveats, covenants, easements

Site Plan Instructions and Sheet

Step 2: Design your project

Design drawing standards

Design Drawings must include:

Plan view
Section View
Elevation view

Design Drawings Requirements:

Prepared by a person skillful in technical drawing, draftsperson, or professional
Minimum scale: 1/8"=1'-0" or 1:100; Preferred scale: 3/16"=1'-0" or 1:75
Metric or imperial units are accepted. Please use units consistently.

Deck Design Guide Package

Step 3: Submit your application

Documents required for 'deck' permit application

Application for building / plumbing permit
Site Plan
Contaminated Site Declaration
Deck Design Drawings
Stairs, guards and handrails (if applicable)
Form A - Owner's Undertaking (if applicable)
Schedule B (if applicable)

Fees

Each application is unique. Typical applications involve the following fees:

Building Permit Application fee

Application checklist

Permit Application (Complete with signature)
Deck addition to SFD Package (Complete)
Site Plan
Form A - Owner's Undertaking (if applicable)
Title Search
Application Fee