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Deck permits in Canada
Deck permit rules are local. Height, attachment, size and whether the deck is covered are common things cities look at.
Updated September 24, 2026
The short answer
A building permit is commonly triggered by height, attachment to the house, roof/covering, or size. A low freestanding platform may be exempt in some municipalities, but zoning setbacks and lot coverage can still apply.
There is no single Canada-wide deck height that decides the permit question. Check the rule for your municipality.
What to check first
- Height above grade
- Attached or freestanding
- Covered or uncovered
- Setbacks, stairs and guards
Check the rule in your city
Choose your municipality for the local permit rule, thresholds and official source.
How the rule changes by city
- Calgary, AB: Calgary requires a building permit for any covered deck and for an uncovered deck higher than 0.6 m above grade at any point; an uncovered deck at or below 0.6 m does not need a building permit. Official source ↗
- Coquitlam, BC: Coquitlam lists decks less than 0.6 m above grade among work that does not need a building permit and routes decks outside that exemption through the permit process. Official source ↗
- Ajax, ON: Ajax requires a building permit for decks/platforms more than 0.6 m above grade or when attached to another structure. Official source ↗
If a permit is required
What you may need to submit
Site plan with setbacks and dimensions; framing/beam/joist details; elevations/guard and stair details where required.
Inspections
Footing/foundation, framing and final/guard inspections are common when the municipality requires a building permit.
Use the local guide before you start
Permit rules, exemptions and application routes are set locally. Open your municipality guide before relying on a threshold or starting work.
Find your municipality →