Balconies Decks and Porches

Complete applications for a balconies, decks and porches must include:

• applicable law approval documentation when required
• completed application package
• building permit fees
• building permit application plot plan
• foundation/ framing plan
• elevation drawing
• cross section drawing
• relevant applicable law approval documents

The information provided should be used as a sample only to help you with creating your application.

Before you start

A deck permit is required when the deck is attached to the house, supports a roof structure, is more than 55m 2 (592 ft2) or the distance from grade to the walking surface of the deck is more than 600mm (23 5/8 in) at any point.

Please note that prior to applying for a building permit, it is your responsibility to ensure that all necessary approvals or permits have been obtained from other agencies for any Applicable Law identified in the Ontario Building Code that is relevant to your project.  These approvals are required as part of a complete building permit application package

Applying for a permit

Please complete Application to Construct or Demolish form and make sure to include a Plot Plan with your submission. We will need the owner's authorization if you are not the property owner.

A Schedule 1: Designer Information Form is required to be filled out for all submissions. Property owners may be exempt from requiring qualifications. All other designers must have appropriate qualifications.

Apply online

You will need to create an account to apply through our online portal. Be sure to have all you documents ready to attach.

Required documents

Typically requirements are listed below, additional information may be required.

Your plot plan should include:

• Lot lines including dimensions
• Measurements from the house and the proposed balconies, decks and porches dimensioned to other buildings, enclosure and lot lines
• Location of overhead electrical conductors (if applicable)
• Location of septic systems and the distances to the balcony, deck and porch (if applicable)
• North arrow and municipal address

Your foundation/framing plan should include:

• Footing and pier sizes and locations
• Size, spacing & direction of beams, floor joist and columns
• Dimensions of all components
• Type of decking materials
• Fastening and connection details

Your elevation/cross section plan should include:

• Footing depth and construction
• Height of deck walking surface above grade
• Height of guard above walking surface
• Stair details including rise/run and stringer size
• Deck construction
• Guard construction details
• Details such as deck to house connections

Addition design information:

Required Inspections:

• Excavation/Footing prior to pouring concrete
• Framing / Final

Any proposed changes from the approved plans must be approved by a Building Inspector prior to construction. Failure to have the required inspections performed may result in you having to uncover and expose the work for inspection.

Fees

We determined fees based on our Building By-Law.

Printable Information Guide

Balconies, Decks and Porches Information Guide