📋 Deck Permit Application Checklist

1 — Before You Apply

• Confirmed permit is required for my deck (called building dept or used Permit Checker)
• Identified correct jurisdiction: city or unincorporated county
• Obtained HOA approval (if applicable)
• Verified setback requirements for my zoning district
• Confirmed frost depth for my location
• Estimated construction value for fee calculation
• Located the permit application portal or counter

2 — Site Plan Elements

• All four property lines with dimensions
• Existing house footprint located on lot
• Proposed deck with overall dimensions (L × W)
• All four setback distances labeled
• All footing locations shown as dots
• Ledger location shown (attached decks)
• Stair location and direction
• North arrow and scale notation

3 — Framing Plan Elements

• Overall deck dimensions
• Joist size and spacing (e.g., 2×10 @ 16" o.c.)
• Beam size and location
• Post locations and size
• Ledger size and lag bolt pattern
• Joist hanger type noted
• Blocking locations (at beam and ledger)
• Decking board direction

4 — Elevation Drawing Elements

• Deck height above grade at highest point
• Railing height (min 36" for decks 30"+ above grade)
• Baluster spacing (max 4")
• Stair rise (max 7¾") and run (min 10")
• Post height and beam depth below deck surface

5 — Footing Detail Elements

• Footing diameter shown
• Footing depth below grade labeled in inches
• Depth extends below frost line
• Concrete specification (min 2,500 PSI)
• Post base hardware type
• Post size (4×4 or 6×6)

6 — Pre-Footing Inspection

Do NOT pour concrete before inspection approval.

• All holes at required depth, into undisturbed soil
• Footing diameter matches approved drawings
• Footing locations match approved site plan
• No debris or water in hole bottoms
• Permit card posted at construction site
• Approved drawings on-site

7 — Pre-Framing Inspection

Do NOT install decking boards before this inspection.

• Post bases installed and fully fastened
• Beam size and span matches approved plans
• Joist hangers with correct nail size and count
• Ledger lag bolt pattern matches approved drawings
• Ledger flashing extends behind water-resistive barrier
• Joist size and spacing matches plans
• Blocking at beam and ledger
• PT lumber rated correctly for each application
• Stair stringers in place
• No decking installed yet

8 — Pre-Final Inspection

Everything must be complete before scheduling final.

• Railing height ≥ 36" (deck surface to top of rail cap)
• Baluster spacing: 4" sphere cannot pass through any gap
• All balusters secure
• Stair risers consistent within ⅜"
• Stair treads minimum 10" deep, max riser 7¾"
• Graspable handrail on stairs with 4+ risers
• Railing posts connected to deck framing (not just decking)
• Ledger-to-house connection fully sealed
• All construction debris removed
• Completed deck matches approved drawings