Do you need a permit to replace a deck on a house?

Question

Several of our deck boards are rotting, so we're going to replace the whole thing. We're thinking about making the deck a little larger. 
When we build a small platform for our garage cans our neighbor asked if we had a permit. 
So we're wondering if we'll need a permit for enlarging the deck? It won't be huge, just a portion of it will be about 4' wider.
We're in nw WA if that makes a difference.

lordreflexis · Answer

I also live in Washington Here is the law and information

In unincorporated King County, a building permit is required to construct a deck or walking surface more than 30 inches above the ground. All structures more than 18 inches above the ground must comply with zoning regulations and setbacks and be built according to the Uniform Residential Code.

A 36-inch high guardrail with maximum openings such that a 4-inch sphere can not pass through is required to be installed for any walking surface that is more than 30 inches above the adjacent ground surface.

Application materials are available online at www.kingcounty.gov/property/permits/publications/forms.aspx in the Residential - Addition/Remodel Decks, Garages, Sheds Packet or by contacting the Permitting Department at 206-296-6600.  The Permitting Department also has Residential prescriptive simple deck design and details (PDF*, 507KB) available.

To secure a permit for new deck construction, customers must make an appointment to submit their permit application by calling 206-296-6797. If sites do not contain critical areas or septic systems, deck permits can be issued over the counter.

For decks that have not been properly permitted, the Permitting Department can review the structure and issue an Already Built Construction (ABC) permit. If the deck is not consistent with King County Code, applicants would be required to bring the structure into compliance. A field visit is required and ABC permits are typically issued within 1-2 months.

More information can be found using the Density and Dimension charts (PDF*, 204KB) in Chapter 21A.12 of the King County Code (KCC) at www.kingcounty.gov/council/legislation/kc_code.aspx.

If you build a new deck spend the money on trex Its a green recycled material You'll never have to replace again Below are the links on the law in NW Washington King county.

http://www.kingcounty.gov/property/permits/FAQ/PermitReq.aspx

Trex link

http://www.trex.com/

Hope it helped
Lr

Jim W · Answer

With the number of deck collapses in the past few years it would be advisable to get a permit and have the work approved and inspected.  Depending on just where you are located you might get away without a permit but if you get stopped by the authorities then the work must stop until the approved plans are submitted and the required permit purchased plus any civil fines for starting without one.   
Use either P T wood or a synthetic wood  for the deck cedar hardly lasts  20 years in that area.

Tricia · Answer

generally. call your city building dept. and ask. better to be safe than fined.

daffyduct2006 · Answer

I agree with Hungryme, each locality (city and/or state) has their own rules. However, since you already have one and even though you want to rebuild the entire thing, it may be considered repair and you may not need one. Best to call your city hall and ask.

Hungryme · Answer

It probably depends on the state

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Do you need a permit to replace a deck on a house?

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