Do I Need a Permit to Build a Deck?
By the PermitSet drafting team · Updated · 5 min read
Quick answer
Usually, yes. Under the International Residential Code (IRC), which most US states adopt, a deck is exempt from a building permit only if it is no larger than 200 square feet, no more than 30 inches above grade at any point, not attached to the house, and does not serve the required exit door. Any deck attached to the house, or higher than 30 inches, typically needs a permit and drawings. Your city can be stricter, so always confirm locally.
The IRC deck exemption, in plain English
IRC Section R105.2 lists work that doesn’t need a permit. A deck qualifies only when all four conditions are true:
- It is 200 square feet or smaller.
- No point of the walking surface is more than 30 inches above the ground below.
- It is free-standing — not attached to the house.
- It doesn’t serve the home’s required exit door.
Why most decks still need a permit
Most decks are attached to the house with a ledger board, which is exactly where many deck failures start. Inspectors check the ledger attachment, footing size and depth (below your local frost line), joist spans, beam sizing, lateral load connections, and guardrails (required when the deck is more than 30 inches above grade).
Building without a required permit can lead to fines, an order to remove the deck, and problems when you sell or insure the home.
What deck permit drawings include
- Site plan showing the deck location and distances to property lines.
- Framing plan with joist size, spacing, and span; beam size; and post locations.
- Footing plan with footing size and depth.
- Ledger attachment detail (fastener type and spacing, flashing).
- Guardrail and stair details where required.
- Elevation or section showing height above grade.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit for a deck under 200 square feet?
Only if it doesn’t meet all the other conditions. A deck under 200 sq ft is exempt under the IRC only when it is also 30 inches or less above grade, free-standing, and not serving the required exit door — and your city hasn’t adopted stricter rules.
Does a ground-level deck need a permit?
A free-standing ground-level deck of 200 sq ft or less that doesn’t serve the required exit door is typically exempt under the IRC. Many cities still require permits for larger or attached ground-level decks.
How fast can I get deck plans for a permit?
PermitSet typically delivers permit-ready deck plans in 3–5 business days, starting at $650.
Need deck plans for your permit?
Permit-ready deck plans with framing, footing, and guardrail details — typically in 3–5 business days.
Get a Fixed Quote →Sources
- International Code Council — 2021 IRC Section R105.2 (Work exempt from permit)
- American Wood Council — DCA 6 Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Building codes and local ordinances change — always confirm requirements with your local building department.