Do I Need a Permit to Build a Deck?


In most cases, yes a permit is needed to build a deck if your deck reaches a certain height or square footage. It’s always best to check in with your municipality to see what their zoning requirements are! With municipalities in Ontario, they will review complete applications within 10 business days of submission.

How Tall Can My Deck Be Before I Need a Permit?

In the City of Kingston, once your deck reaches 600mm (60cm or about 24”) above ground level (at any point on the deck), you will need to apply for a permit through the DASH portal. If your deck is less than 600mm off the ground, you do not require a permit. Generally this is the same for each municipality, but it is always best to check and see what your municipality requires.

How Large Can My Deck Be Before I Need a Permit?

According to the City of Kingston website, there is no listed limitation for deck size. There are limitations for other municipalities however. For example, Ottawa requires a permit once your deck is larger than 10 square metres and is adjacent to the house, not attached to it. Please keep in mind that there are zoning requirements that may limit the size.

What do I Need to Submit with My Permit Application?

 The City of Kingston provides a list of what they require you submit along with your application. Some of these other submissions include:

  • Information required through your DASH account (the City Of Kingston’s online permit submission portal) to submit your Deck Permit Application.

  • A scalable survey or plot plan of your property that includes property lines, existing structures, your septic system (if applicable), and the proposed deck with dimensions that show the edge of your deck or stairs to each property line.

  • A detailed plan that shows all deck measurements and structural components.

  • All building details for stairs.

  • Stair handrail measurements and stringer details.

  • Guardrail measurements, materials, and structural details.

  • Details for below grade supports / foundation (such as sonotubes and bigfoots)


These requirements can be viewed in more detail on the City of Kingston website through drop down menus that explain exactly what needs to be submitted.


House of Three offers many premade deck plans along with our custom options! These plans include BCIN-licenced drawings that are ready for permit submission. We also offer add-ons for our deck plans that will help you during your permit application, such as a plot plan.