Decks, Landings and Ramps

Decks

A building permit is required for a deck that is higher than 600 mm or any deck that supports an enclosed structure with a roof. Decks must follow the requirements in the Zoning Bylaw and the National Building Code of Canada.

Applying for a building permit

A building permit is required before construction starts. Your application must include the following:

• Site plan
• Drawing showing how the deck will be built
• Details on foundation supports and spacing
• Joist material, sizes, span, spacing and projections
• Beam material, size and spans
• Guardrail materials and heights

Decks 600 mm or less in height

You do not need a building permit, but you must meet the following requirements:

• In the front yard setback, can project 2 m
• In the rear yard setback, can project 3.6 m
• In the side yard, can project to the property line

Landings

You do not need a building permit for a landing that is 2.23 m² or smaller, but you must meet the following requirements:

• Landings can project into your property's setback by 1.2 m
• Landings higher than 600 mm require guardrails and handrails

Wheelchair ramps and lifts

You require a building permit for wheelchair ramps, but not for wheelchair lifts. Wheelchair ramps and lifts can project into the property's setback. You must follow the requirements of the National Building Code of Canada for wheelchair ramps.

Please see our Decks, Landings and Ramps brochure for handrail and guardrail requirements, and for complete details.