Exact-answer directory

DeckPermitCheck answers that go beyond a source link.

Every page below returns a defined record, boundary, or jurisdiction rule directly and states what still requires agency review.

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Quick answer

11 exact-answer pages pass the record, boundary, or reviewed-rule gate.

Official records, mapped boundaries, and reviewed rules Exact-answer cohort reviewed July 2026

11 admitted answers.

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Reviewed jurisdiction rule

New York, NY

New York City requires DOB plans and a building permit for a new deck or porch and for structural deck work; only qualifying ordinary repairs or minor alterations avoid that filing.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles requires a building permit for a new deck and for structural alteration of an existing deck; a surface-coating-only project can use the city's express-permit path without plan check.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

Chicago, IL

Chicago always requires a building permit for structural porch or deck work; routine maintenance and qualifying nonstructural repairs can be permit-exempt.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

Houston, TX

Houston does not require a building permit for a deck 200 square feet or smaller when it is no more than 30 inches above grade, detached from the dwelling, and does not serve the required exit door.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix does not require a building permit for an uncovered deck or platform 30 inches or lower above grade when it is not over a basement or story and is not part of an accessible route.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

Seattle, WA

Seattle requires a construction permit for a deck more than 18 inches above the ground, a roof deck, or a deck in an environmentally critical area.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

Portland, OR

Portland requires a building permit for a deck more than 30 inches above adjacent grade; a deck 30 inches or lower generally does not require a building permit.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

Washington, DC

Washington, DC requires a building permit for a new porch or deck and for structural alterations to an existing porch or deck.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

San Diego, CA

San Diego requires a building permit for a residential deck over 200 square feet, more than 30 inches above grade at any point, attached to a dwelling, or serving the main exit door.

Reviewed jurisdiction rule

San Jose, CA

San Jose exempts a deck from a building permit only when it is detached, 200 square feet or smaller, no more than 30 inches above grade, and not part of a required exit; otherwise a permit is required.

Reviewed project rule

Fairfax County, VA