Do you Need a Permit to Build a Deck?

If you plan to build a deck in the near future, one of the first things you will want to do is obtain a permit. While every county has different regulations about what is required to build a deck, a permit is required in every case. But do you really need it? What happens if you don’t get a permit? Let’s look more closely at regulations regarding deck additions in both Maryland and Pennsylvania.

Maryland

In Maryland all decks require a permit, skipping this step in building your deck could have consequences. Most homeowners who build a deck without the appropriate permits run into major problems when they go to sell their home.

Having a deck without a permit could result in you having to invest money to bring the deck up to regulation. In a worst case scenario you could have to remove the deck entirely and it could wind up costing you the sale of your home.

When getting a deck permit in Maryland you will also need to consider zoning restrictions, you won’t be approved for a permit if your proposed plans do not meet zoning requirements. Likewise, you’ll need to make sure that your deck plans are within your homeowners association (HOA) regulations so that you don’t run into issues with your HOA in the future.

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, decking permits are also required in most cases. One exception relates to decks that are less than 30 inches off the ground. If your deck is less than 30 inches and has a roof on it, however, it will still need a permit.

Obtaining a permit is still a good idea in both cases. However, it’s especially important if you have an HOA, or plan to sell your home in the near future, just to prevent any major issues in the future.

Getting Help

Building a deck yourself may seem like a great way to save some money, but building can be difficult, and obtaining permits can be stressful. To obtain permits for your deck in Maryland or Pennsylvania you’ll need to know the ins and outs of rules and regulations for your state, your county, and your neighborhood (if you have an HOA). By working with a professional deck builder you can rest easy and know that they can design plans that will be approved without issue.

If you are ready to design and build a deck onto your home, contact us at North American Deck and Patio today to talk about your vision. Our team will work closely with you to create the deck of your dreams while working within your particular zoning and HOA regulations. Leave the hard work up to us and sit back and relax while we develop your plans and get them approved! Call us today to get started!

“Jim at North American patio and deck's came up with the most ingenious way of utilizing our small very slanted very water drained environment and turned it into a virtual oasis. Making this deck the envy of all our ambitions and gem for the community.”

– C. Cross