Deck Permit Considerations
Most decks require a development permit and a building permit. A Home Improvement Permit is a combination of these permits.
However, a development permit is not required when a deck meets all of the following:
- Is entirely located within a back or interior side yard
- Is not located within the flanking side yard of a corner lot
- Is 1.2 metres (3 feet 11 inches) or less above the ground at every point
- Does not have a roof or walls
- Is not located within the North Saskatchewan River Valley and Ravine System Protection Overlay
A building permit is not required when a deck meets all of the following:
- Is 0.6 metres (23 ⅝ inches) or less above the ground at every point
- Serves only a single residential unit
- Does not have a roof or walls
- Does not support heavy loads (for example, gazebo or masonry items)
Are you building a covered deck or pergola attached to the house? A covered deck or pergola attached to the house is considered a home addition. Please see Home Additions for application requirements.
Are you building a freestanding structure on your deck, such as a pergola or trellis? Detached Accessory structures such as gazebos, trellis and pergolas are required to be included in your Home Improvement Permit. Please see Detached Garage and Shed for more information.
Unsure Which Permits You Need?
Use the residential permit guide to help determine which permits you need and an estimate of fees before you apply.