How to Get a Building Permit For a New Deck

When building a new deck, you will need a building permit for the project. You must obtain them before any construction happens on your property. These permits are required to ensure that you are following local codes and regulations for building on your property. Your contractor, Decks R Us, will help you obtain the right permits, but it is important to understand the laws you must follow. Here is our guide on the regulations you have to comply with to get a building permit for a new deck. 

What is a Building Permit? 

A building permit is permission to build on your property, given to you by your local government. Permits are required for most construction or remodeling projects, especially if they change a home’s structure or involve utility work. They must be obtained before a construction project begins, as they ensure that the project complies with local building, construction, and zoning codes. Getting a building permit can be expensive, but it is better to have one as it helps prevent detrimental errors like fire hazards and structural failures. If you don’t have a permit, and any accidents or insurance claims happen, you can be spending more money than if you had a permit from the start. 

Why You Need a Building Permit For a New Deck

Many local jurisdictions, including Pennsylvania, require permits for decks at least 30 inches above grade. Building permits ensure that construction projects are following safe and legal practices and that your contractors have the right licenses. They allow professional inspectors to verify that the project is planned and constructed correctly. If you do not obtain a permit before you start any construction on your property, even small tasks like digging holes, you could be heavily fined by your local building authority. 

Contact Your Local Building Authority

The application process for building permits is different for every location. There may be other local regulations you need to follow, like restrictions on the deck’s height, size, and safety features or additional zoning permits. You will also have to contact a locating service to locate all your underground utilities so they don’t get damaged in construction. If you are unsure of the permits you need or regulations you have to follow in Pennsylvania, contact your local building department to obtain the forms. The person acting as the contractor for the project, Decks R Us, is responsible for obtaining the permits and must bring a copy of their licenses to get them. 

Submit the Appropriate Forms

When talking with your local authorities, you will need to have all your information for the deck together. This includes property details, design, materials, and the site, deck, construction, and elevation plans. Once the building authority has all your property details and plans, they will confirm what permits you need. You need to fill it out completely, turn it in, and pay the fees that come with it. The agency will review your applications and forms to ensure your compliance. Once everything is approved, you can get your building permit. 

Build Your New Deck with Decks R Us

Once you get your building permit, you can start building your deck! Decks R Us will communicate with you throughout the entire deck-building process, from obtaining permits to choosing materials to finishing construction. We will also completely handle the difficult permit-obtaining process with little input needed from you, with no extra fees. The only exception is if a Zoning Variance is needed, you will need to obtain that yourself. Our high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship will ensure your plans meet local building codes and will pass all inspections. To begin building your new deck, check out our deck ideas to give you inspiration for your design and get a free estimate of the cost for your deck. If you have any questions, contact one of our skilled craftsmen.