Deck Permits

Adding a deck to your backyard can add value to your home and provide endless days of backyard fun and barbecuing! Before you get started, take a look at the permit requirements!

Firstly, a building permit is required. The cost of the permit is based on the value of the project at hand. You'll also have to provide a deck plan which displays the following information:

A. Size and depth of footing
B. Type of footing forms
C. Size and spacing of posts
D. Type of lumber
E. Size of beams
F. Size and spacing of joists
G. Type of floor boards
H. Height of deck off of the ground
I. Height and design of guardrail
J. Size of the deck
K. Distance to property lines
L. Plans should be drawn on an 8 1/2 x 11 OR 11 x 17 piece of paper

You must also adhere to a number of rules and guidelines. Below is a sample of those rules to give you an idea:

A. Footings must be at least 42" deep, 8" in diameter. Footing forms must be cardboard tubes.
B. Deck footings are subject to frost heave. Deeper and wider footings will help to prevent this.
C. All wooden members of the deck must be treated or must be rot resistant.
D. Posts must be anchored to prevent movement.
E. Beam end joints and splices must be made over posts. Beams bolted to posts must have at least two 1/2" carriage bolts staggered on each post.
F. Guardrail decks most than 30" off of the ground require a guardrail of at least 36" in height so that a 4" object cannot pass through.
G. The maximum rise on the stairs is 7 3/4". Maximum opening in risers is 4".
H. Continuous handrails are required for four or more stair risers.
I. Deck must be completed within six months of permit issuance.

For more information on deck permits and their requirements, contact us at Your Permit Solution!

Source: Woodbury, MN