Placement
- A building permit is required to erect a deck, which is issued through the City’s Building & Inspection Services Department; however, Planning Department staff can assist a homeowner in determining the location before applying for a permit.
- Decks two (2) feet above grade and under must be placed at least three feet from the side and rear property line. However, if there is an established fence line on the rear or side yard, decks may be built up to the property line.
- Decks more than two (2) feet above grade must comply with the setback requirements of the house.
- Decks (including the steps) can be placed in the front yard and project into the required front yard setback up to five (5) feet.
- Covered decks are treated like porches and must comply with the setback requirements of the house.
- A patio is a paved outdoor area used for gathering. There are no setback requirements.
Special Notes
- It is the property owner’s responsibility to determine exactly where the property lines are located to avoid conflict with neighboring properties.
- The City knows the approximate dimensions of your property and can provide a sketch. A survey of the property, conducted by a licensed surveyor, is the only way to precisely locate the property lines.
- If you are looking to construct a patio, porch, or deck, be sure to check the maximum lot coverage percentage for buildings and pavement based on the property’s zoning district.
You will need to provide a site plan showing the deck size and placement when submitting for a building permit. Include measurements showing the distance from the deck to the property lines.
Uncovered Decks (Two (2) feet tall and under
More information can be found in the Zoning Ordinance – Section 2307 – Permitted Yard Encroachments