Before you design or build your deck addition, be sure to read about filing for a permit first.
Thinking of adding or building a deck to your home and not sure if you need a deck construction permit? Many cities and counties will require that a homeowner file a construction permit for remodeling projects, including a deck. This permit is to ensure that your project is built to code and approved by the city or local governing body. Permits are a way to make sure that structures are safe and adhere to current standards and practices.
As a general rule, remodeling a home, which includes new construction, additions or alterations, requires a permit. Specifically this permit would be considered a construction permit. The exact type of permit required depends upon the scope and scale of the remodel, the codes, zoning rules and regulations of where you live, and what type of structure or home you plan to remodel. The codes and regulations established by your city, town or county will determine what types of projects require a construction permit and what what types of permits you’ll need to file. Your first step should be to contact your local government agency and search their department of planning and development website or office. According to the City of Seattle’s Department of Planning and Development, for example, any deck construction that is built 18″ above ground will require a subject-to-field-inspection (STFI) construction permit. Although most agencies require little information at time of permit application filing, most cities have specific zoning laws about the size of the deck as it relates to the size of the home and as it relates to your property lines. It’s imperative to research the codes of your local jurisdiction prior to drawing up your deck plans.
The specifics required may vary slightly from county to county but in general, several items will be necessary to obtain a permit. For an STFI, the information required by the local government agency may be minimal (you’ll want to verify exactly what type of information is require before filing). You may only need to provide a set of drawings for the deck and in some instances, these drawings do not need to be stamped by the professional. The drawings, along with the specifications of your home (square footage, property details) will be needed as each city has specific zoning laws for decks.
The short answer is “yes” however be sure to research your local agency’s specific requirements. For most deck additions, a simple STFI construction permit may be filed over the counter with minimal information required. More complex or complicated remodeling projects require more information (sometimes provided by a team of professionals). This is especially true if your deck project is being constructed near an environmentally critical area. If that is the case, then a professional may need to be hired to perform the necessary studies for this project and fill out the appropriate paperwork. It may be in the homeowner’s best interest to have the home improvement professional file the entire series of permits on the homeowner’s behalf. When in doubt, check with your local office to verify if you can file this type of construction permit without the need of a professional.
Before you do anything, check with your local government agency regarding what information you need to provide during the permit filing process. A simple web search, phone call or in-person Q&A will save you a lot of time right from the beginning. Start by going to the website of your local governing agency and search for the Department of Planning and Development. Very often this site will host a number of frequently asked questions and answers, online brochures or other tips to help get you started. Once you have all the information in place, and have your designs and materials specified, you will need to fill out a form with the permitting office (usually available online). For deck construction permits, very often the deck construction permit may be granted over-the-counter the same you file.
Again, the answer will depend on the agency where you live and what you plan on building. Once the permit application is reviewed, very often the deck construction permit may be granted over-the-counter the same you file. If your deck construction project is more complicated, and an intake interview may need to be scheduled with possible “corrections” to your application. A correction is another way of requesting further information from the homeowner. Some government agencies have an online permit tracking program in which you can actually track the progress of your permit.
Permitting fees vary from region to region and will depend upon the size and scale and value of the project. Most government agencies have a specific fee formula based on type of home (i.e. Single Family Residential), type of project and square footage. To get the most accurate information contact your local agency.
Permits are usually picked up in person upon approval. Most agencies will contact the filer (by phone, mail or email) regarding pick-up time.
If your local governing agency requires that your renovation project requires a construction permit and you fail to obtain one, a stop-work order may be issued. If work continues against this stop-work order, fines or other legal action may take place. Check with your local Department of Planning and Development to ensure your project abides by the rules.
If your deck contractor is licensed, they will be able to help with your permit:
With a background in furniture and antiques, Anne has spent the last several years writing about home improvement and interior design. An avid traveler, she loves to collect pieces that tell a story and in her off hours she can be found hunting for vintage furniture and textiles.
