Do i need a permit to build a deck?

Many people ask XMT Construction if they need a permit to build a deck. Some cities in the Lower Mainland can have lengthy wait times. In some situations the answer is yes, you will need a permit to build a deck. The requirements to determine if you need a building permit to vary slightly from city to city. Generally, if the finished deck height is not greater than two feet a building permit is not required. A common misconception is not needing a building permit to rebuild a deck that is more than two feet above the ground.

XMT Construction is experienced in the permitting process. XMT Construction has completed permitted decks in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Burnaby, Port Moody, Mission, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Langley, Delta, Surrey, New Westminster, White Rock, Metro Vancouver and The Lower Mainland.

XMT Construction guides the permitting process. This includes surveys, feasibility, drawings, engineering, printing, inspections and final inspection.

The permit to build a deck can vary in length of time. One of the variables is the city of the project and how long the processing times are at that building department. Other time factors include: if the home owners have a land title survey, if any covenants, streams or easements are on the property, the zoning for the property including setbacks. If engineering is required. Engineering can be required in the following areas: geotechnical, storm water management, structural and glass details. Glass details are generally found in glass railings. The range of time to get a permit to build a deck can be anywhere from four weeks to 12 months.

For any further inquiries about the process, contact XMT Construction to build a deck. Contact us here.

XMT Construction offers many other services such as: