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Dufferin County Services Building Services Residential Decks

Residential Decks

Building a deck is on of the most common construction projects that homeowners take on and most projects require a permit before any work begins. The information below will help guide you through the permitting process.

Application Checklist When is a Permit Required? Fees
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Application Checklist

The application package for a deck permit should include the following:

  • A completed permit application form
    • Including BCIN information on Schedule 1, is applicable
  • Conservation Authority approval, or any other applicable law
  • Site plan drawn to scale including:
    • Deck setbacks from property lines (including stairs)
    • Overall dimensions of deck
    • Existing buildings/structures on the property
    • Location of septic tank & bed
  • Floor plans drawn to scale including:
    • ​Footing size and location
    • Concrete pier size and location
    • Post size, location, spacing
    • Beam size, location, spacing
    • Joist size, spacing, direction
    • Ledger board size & location
    • Decking size
    • Stair layout, size, location
    • Overall dimensions of deck
  • Elevations drawn to scale including:
    • Deck height off of grade
    • Pier depth and size
    • Footing depth and size
    • Railing/guard height and details
Download our deck application checklist here

When is a Permit Required?

A permit is required if: A permit is not required if:
  • The deck is attached to a house or structure
  • The deck is over 2ft (24 inches) high
  • The deck is covered, regardless of the height above adjacent grade

  • The deck is not more than 2ft (24 inches) high and is not attached to a house or structure

Note: Municipal Approval from your local Town/Township is still required if your project does not require a building permit. 

Fees

Permit fees for decks are $160. 

Click here to learn about the application process.