That beautiful new deck you’re dreaming of for summer barbecues and quiet mornings might need more than just wood and screws to become a reality. To be built safely and legally, it needs one crucial piece of paper: a building permit. Navigating the world of permits can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
This guide will walk you through the entire process of how to get a deck permit in Pennsylvania. We’ll focus specifically on the rules and expectations here in Bucks and Montgomery Counties, so you can build your dream deck with confidence, knowing it’s done right from the very foundation.
Do You Actually Need a Deck Permit? The Short Answer is Almost Always Yes.
Many homeowners wonder if a deck permit is truly necessary, especially for what seems like a simple project. In Pennsylvania, the answer is a resounding yes in most cases. The state’s Uniform Construction Code (UCC) sets the standards to ensure structures are safe for you, your family, and your guests.
Think of a permit as a form of quality control. It’s not about bureaucracy; it’s about safety and protecting your investment. A permit ensures your deck design is reviewed for structural integrity, preventing collapses and other hazards. It also protects your home’s value—unpermitted work can cause major headaches when you decide to sell.
You will almost certainly need a deck permit if your project includes any of the following:
- Any deck attached to your house, regardless of its size or height.
- A freestanding (or “floating”) deck that is more than 30 inches above the ground at any point.
- A deck of any height that is larger than 200 square feet.
- Any deck that will have a roof or be part of a covered porch.
Rules can vary slightly from one township to the next. The requirements in Doylestown might differ subtly from those in Abington or Chaumont. The safest bet is to always assume you need a permit and start by checking with your local authorities.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Deck Permit in PA
The process might seem complicated, but it breaks down into a few manageable steps. Following them in order will make your experience much smoother.
Step 1: Contact Your Local Township or Borough Office
This is your official starting point. Before you buy a single board, visit your local municipal building’s website or give them a call. Look for the “Building & Zoning” or “Code Enforcement” department. They provide the official permit application and a checklist of everything you need to submit.
A quick phone call to the code office can save you hours of guesswork. Ask them directly: “I’m planning to build a deck. What do I need to submit to get a permit?” They will provide the exact forms and specifications they require.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
While specifics can vary, most townships in Bucks and Montgomery Counties will ask for a standard set of documents. These typically include:
- A Completed Permit Application Form: This is the main document where you fill out your personal information, address, and a description of the project.
- Deck Construction Plans: This is the most critical part of your application. These aren’t just simple sketches; they are detailed drawings showing how the deck will be built.
- A Site Plan (or Plot Plan): This is an overhead view of your property. You’ll need to show your property lines, the location of your house, and a clear drawing of where the proposed deck will be situated. Be sure to mark the distances from the deck to your property lines (known as setbacks).
- Contractor Information: If you’re hiring a professional, you’ll need to provide their name, registration number (PA HIC#), and insurance information.
Step 3: Understanding Your Deck Plans – What Officials Look For
Your deck plans must be detailed enough for a code official to verify that the design is safe and compliant. If your drawings are vague or incomplete, your application will be rejected.
Here’s what your plans must show:
- Footings: The drawings need to specify the depth, diameter, and location of the concrete footings. In Pennsylvania, footings must be dug below the frost line, which is typically 36 inches deep, to prevent heaving in the winter.
- Framing: You’ll need to detail the sizes and spacing of all lumber, including posts, beams, and joists. This includes how the deck will be attached to your house with a ledger board, which is a critical safety component.
- Guardrails & Stairs: The plans must show that your railings and stairs meet safety codes. For residential decks, guardrails must be at least 36 inches high, and the balusters (or spindles) must be spaced so that a 4-inch sphere cannot pass through. Stairs also have strict requirements for riser height and tread depth.
Common Deck Permit Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Many homeowners run into the same few problems when trying to get a deck permit. Here’s a quick guide to avoiding them.
| Common Pitfall | How to Avoid It |
| Incomplete Paperwork | Before you submit, use the checklist provided by your township to double-check that every single form and drawing is included. A quick call to the office to confirm can save weeks of delays. |
| Vague or Incorrect Plans | The easiest way to avoid this is to work with an experienced deck builder. Professional, code-compliant drawings are part of their service and ensure your application is approved quickly. |
| Ignoring Property Setbacks | Use your site plan to confirm how far your deck needs to be from your property lines. This information is found in your local zoning ordinance. Building too close can result in being forced to tear it down. |
| Starting Work Before Approval | Never start demolition or construction until you have the official, stamped, and approved permit in your hands. Starting early can lead to stop-work orders and significant fines. |
FAQ: Answering Your Top Deck Permit Questions
How much does a deck permit cost in PA?
The cost varies widely by municipality, but typically ranges from $100 to over $500. The fee is often based on the total cost of the project or its square footage.
How long does it take to get a deck permit?
Plan for at least 2–4 weeks for the review process. During the busy spring and summer months, it can take longer. Submitting a complete and accurate application is the best way to speed things up.
What happens if I build a deck without a permit?
Building without a permit can lead to serious consequences. These include fines from your township, a stop-work order, and even being forced to tear the deck down. It can also create major issues when selling your home and may lead to your homeowner’s insurance denying a claim if the unpermitted deck fails and causes damage.
Can I get a permit myself, or do I need a contractor?
As a homeowner, you can pull your own permit. However, the requirement for detailed, code-compliant plans makes this challenging for someone without drafting or engineering experience. A professional deck builder manages the entire permit process for you, removing the stress and ensuring everything is done correctly.
The Bucks Mont Decks Advantage: Let Us Handle the Hassle
Reading through these steps can feel overwhelming, and that’s completely understandable. The good news is that you don’t have to navigate the complex world of permits, codes, and inspections alone.
When you partner with Bucks Mont Decks, the entire permit process is part of our comprehensive service. We have years of experience working with townships across Bucks and Montgomery Counties. We know the local codes, we create professional drawings that officials approve, and we manage the entire submission and inspection process from start to finish.
You can focus on the exciting parts—like choosing your decking materials and planning your first cookout—while we handle the paperwork and red tape.
Build it Right, Build it with Confidence
Getting a deck permit isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s the first step in building a safe, beautiful, and lasting outdoor space for your home. By understanding the process and preparing your documents correctly, you can ensure your project goes smoothly.
If you’d rather leave the details to the experts, we’re here to help. Contact Bucks Mont Decks today for a free consultation. We manage every step, from design to permits to the final build, so you can relax and get ready to enjoy your beautiful, safe, and fully compliant new deck.
