Deck and Porches

Scope of Work

A building permit is required regardless of the deck’s walking surface area, if the deck is:

  • adjacent to or attached to the house,
  • its walking surface is more than 600 mm (24 in.) above the adjacent grade, or
  • an elevated deck providing principal access to a building. 

A building permit is required, if the deck is independent from the house (e.g. is in the middle of the yard) and:

  • has a walking surface greater than 10 square metres (approximately 108 square feet) in area.
  • its walking surface is more than 600 mm (24 in.) above the adjacent grade.
Required Forms
Charges & Fees

Required Documentation

Required Inspections

Excavation

Footing: at completion of formwork, prior to pouring concrete. Soil Bearing Capacity Report required before pouring.

Foundation

Required at completion of formwork before pouring concrete when designed by an engineer.

Framing

Required at completion of structural framing.

Final Inspection

Required upon completion of the building.

Professional Design Requirements

  • Glass guardrail specifications stamped by a professional engineer are required where applicable.
  • Timber-frame structure drawings must be stamped by a professional engineer.
  • Underpinning must be designed by a professional engineer and include a CGR.
  • If piles are used, a final report from a professional engineer is required to close the permit.

Additional Information

  • Planning approval is required before a building permit can be issued.
  • An Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) final report is required to close the permit, where applicable.
  • The new construction must be located at a min. of 5' from the septic tank and a min. of 16'-5" from the septic bed.
  • Gazebos must be designed to support the snow loads specified in the OBC. The specification is to be provided.
  • The construction requirements for guards outlined in Supplementary Standard SB-7 are considered compliant with the OBC requirements.

 

Important

The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and serves as an overview of common permit requirements based on project type.

Permit requirements, required documents, inspections, and approvals may vary depending on the scope of work, site conditions, applicable laws, and the requirements of the Ontario Building Code and the Chief Building Official (CBO).

Additional information or documentation may be required during the review of your application.