Do I need a permit to build a deck?
The simple answer is…maybe. As a simple rule, you need a permit for any deck that is higher than 30 inches off the ground. This rule applies to most decks.
Do I need a permit to build a house in Ohio?
Except in extreme circumstances, you must have your building permit before any construction can begin in Ohio. Working without a valid permit can subject you to fines and penalties and affect the completion of your project.
Do building regulations vary by state in Ohio?
However, because building regulations are set by the local government, permit requirements do vary throughout the state of Ohio. When do I need to apply in Ohio for my construction permit? Except in extreme circumstances, you must have your building permit before any construction can begin in Ohio.
Can you get a retroactive permit for a deck?
You can’t get a retroactive deck permit now. If you find yourself in a situation where you have a deck built without a permit issued and passed you can still obtain permission. What you will have to do is measure out the existing deck and draw up some plans just like you were starting from scratch.
Do I need a permit to build a floating deck in Ohio?
Rather than being attached to the house, floating decks are freestanding and “float” on top of the ground. Most floating decks differ from standard builds in that they are less time consuming and don't require a permit.
Do I need a permit for a patio in Ohio?
A building permit is required for decks, porches, and attached roofs. Detached decks less than 30” from grade require a zoning permit but not a building permit. Concrete patios just require a hauling permit.
How deep do deck footings need to be in Ohio?
The fill shall be compacted to ensure uniform support of the slab, and except where approved, the fill depths shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) for clean sand or gravel and 8 inches (203 mm) for earth. Exception: Fills constructed of controlled low-strength material (CLSM) need not be compacted.
Can I build my own deck?
Building your own deck is a great way of transforming an outdoor area into a space perfect for entertaining. Believe it or not, it is not as hard as it seems – you can even do it yourself. All you need is timber supply, some materials and the right tools for the job.
What requires a permit in Ohio?
In Ohio, the basic rule is that the construction of all new buildings and work that structurally changes existing buildings through remodeling and additions will require a building permit. Most electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work beyond basic repairs will also require a building permit.
How much is a building permit in Ohio?
Fee SchedulesFee or Permit NameBuilding Structure Fees:New Homes & Room Additions- Base Fee Plus $0.23 per Square Foot of Total AreaAlterations, Remodeling & Fire Damage- Base Fee Plus $0.23 per Square Foot of Project Area201 to 400 Square Foot Accessory Structure- Base Fee Plus $0.12 per Square Foot94 more rows
How deep is the frost line in Ohio?
Frost depth is how deep water in soil freezes. Northern Ohio's frost depth is 3 to 3 ½ feet. Water mains and connection lines in Cleveland Water's system are buried more than 5 feet deep in order to be below the frost line and prevent the water inside from freezing.
How much clearance is needed if a deck is supported by a ledger?
½”The maximum gap between the face of the ledger board and face of the wall sheathing shall be ½”. Ledgers shall be flashed or caulked to prevent water from contacting the house band joist (see DCA 6, Figures 14 and 15). Lag screws and bolts shall be staggered per DCA 6, Figure 19.
How deep is the frost line in Columbus Ohio?
The frost line in our region lies between 32″ and 36″ which is the depth from the ground required to install footers which serve as the base for concrete which supports your deck project. The frost line is determined by calculation of average temperatures and the hundred year freeze.
Is it worth building your own deck?
The Bottom Line. It may seem overwhelming at first, but if you have the time and a solid understanding of basic construction principles, you can build a pretty incredible deck all on your own. Just keep in mind that while a DIY deck project might be a great option for some, it's not the solution for everyone.
What to do before building a deck?
Here are the 7 things you should do before installing a deck.Consider All Materials. ... Check Local Building Codes. ... Thoughtfully Design Your Deck. ... Use Quality Decking Materials. ... Learn About Required Deck Maintenance. ... Evaluate Your Foundation. ... Choose Your Fasteners.
What is a good size deck?
Most builders suggest that your deck should be no larger than 20 percent of the house's* square footage. This is so that the deck does not overwhelm a home visually. This, of course, is up to you. If you feel you need a larger deck that takes up more of your yard space, feel free!
What Kinds of Building Projects Require A Building Permit in Ohio?
In Ohio, the basic rule is that the construction of all new buildings and work that structurally changes existing buildings through remodeling and...
Who Issues Building Permits in Ohio?
Normally it is the local city Building Department in the municipality in Ohio where the property or project is found that will process your applica...
When Do I Need to Apply in Ohio For My Construction Permit?
Except in extreme circumstances, you must have your building permit before any construction can begin in Ohio. Working without a valid permit can s...
in Ohio, Is A Building Permit The Same Thing as A Zoning Permit?
No, these are two separate processes. If your property needs to be rezoned because you are changing the intended use of the building or it is not c...
Why do we need permits for decks?
Permits are issued by governments to ensure that any outdoor building project adheres to building codes, which are in place to ensure structures are safe. Cities, municipalities, and HOAs may also regulate additions and structures based on how the look will affect the neighborhood. The first step in your project should be to familiarize yourself with the various permits you need to secure to build your deck.
What is important to consider before building a deck?
Before you get started, it is important to consider not only what you want your deck to be built out of but how exactly the law needs you to build your deck. Larger decks often face strict regulations at the state, city, and municipality level. Which can, on the surface, make the building process seem a lot more complicated than it actually is.
How high should a deck be off the ground?
As a simple rule, you need a permit for any deck that is higher than 30 inches off the ground. This rule applies to most decks. Anything lower than 30” is often considered a patio or “porch deck,” and no permit is required. The reason for this and the reason for many of the other permissions you’ll have to wade through is safety. Any deck higher than 30” requires deck railings – and these railings must adhere to certain rules as well.
What is the minimum deck size for a deck?
Of course, this rule may change based on your location, but 30” is the standard. Any deck that exceeds the 30″ rule is going to need to be permitted and built to standards set forth by the municipality, city, and state. The permitting process is a simple matter of taking the time to research which permits you need and what parameters must be met to secure approvals.
What is the standard height for deck railings?
The reason for this and the reason for many of the other permissions you’ll have to wade through is safety. Any deck higher than 30” requires deck railings – and these railings must adhere to certain rules as well. Of course, this rule may change based on your location, but 30” is the standard.
Is permitting a process?
Navigating the permitting process can be a bit of a process – but we can help.
Is it easy to build a deck?
Building a deck can be quick and painless, especially with help from our decking experts. Familiarizing yourself with the various laws and permits required for outdoor decking in your area will save you a major headache in the future.
Why do we need permits for decks?
Although the permitting process is complicated, there is a reason that permits are required – to ensure that your deck is constructed safely and has a long lifespan. Permits are required by governments to guarantee that building projects adhere to building codes, which are established to ensure the safety of structures.
What is the penalty for building a deck without a permit?
If you elect to build your deck without securing a permit, the penalty fine could be $75,000 or more, depending on the location and a variety of aspects of the structure itself .
What is the first step in deck building?
The first step in your deck building project is to acquaint yourself with all the various permits that are required.
Why is it so complicated to get a permit?
The primary reason why permitting can be so complex has to do with the fact that homeowners must engage in multiple processes to secure approval. Cities, states, local municipalities, and even some homeowner’s associations typically require permits and those particular permits have varying regulations and rules.
How far can a deck be from a house?
Since decks aren’t described in building codes for safety distance, they have separate rules, though they can be as close as 5 feet in distance.
What to include in a deck plan?
Each plan will have to include visual details or notes for how guard rails, footings, ledger boards, and stairs will be installed. Be prepared to identify the grades and types of materials that you will use for the rails, decking, and framing as well as the kinds of fasteners and hardware that will be used.
Why is it so hard to get a site plan approved?
This is because there may be more stringent setback requirements when it comes to maintaining a specific distance from the street.
How high does a deck need to be to get a permit?
If the deck is not being attached to anything and is 30 inches or higher it will also require a permit.
When it is time to sell your home, could it be revealed there was never a permit processed for the deck?
When it is time to sell your home it could be revealed there was never a permit processed for the deck. This could hurt you at the bargaining table financially as well as it might hold up the sale of your home.
How does bylaws affect deck construction?
The bylaws might affect how big of a deck you can build and how close to a property line, among other factors. We will explore different scenarios below.
What happens if a deck falls?
If a deck were to fall with people on it, someone could get seriously injured. One of the positive things about following protocol and getting a permit is that an inspector will come out to your site and inspect the construction. The inspector will identify if there is a safety risk and how to go about fixing it.
What information is needed for a deck?
Length, width and height of the deck will be required as well as where you are placing your beam (s). Other information potentially needed are:
Why do you have to tear down a deck?
Just think of all the money and time spent constructing a deck only to have to tear it down because it doesn’t meet code and is a safety risk.
Do people build decks with disregard for codes?
This happens all the time! People building decks with total disregard for any building codes they may be violating. The problem with this is, it’s not just codes they are bypassing.
