Decks

Building a deck in the Township of Cavan Monaghan

Before you get a Building permit

Before you apply for a building permit, please contact the Planning department by using the Land Use Inquiry form.  This will ensure your project will meet all the requirements of the Zoning By-laws. Without taking care of those things, it could delay or in some cases even change or stop your project.

Do I need a building permit for a deck?

Building Permits are required for decks that are:

• Higher than 600 mm (23 5/8") above adjacent ground level at any point.
• Structurally attached to the house or any other building with a foundation. 
• Larger than 10 sq. m. (108 sq. ft.)

Building Permits are not required for decks that are:

• Lower than 600 mm (23 5/8")  above adjacent ground level at any point.
• Not structurally attached to the house or any other building with a foundation. 
• 10 sq. m. (108 sq. ft.) or less.

Important!

Regardless whether a Building Permit is required or not, it must meet all zoning regulations.

Please contact the planning department by filling out the Land Use Inquiry form before starting your project. If the Zoning By-laws are violated, you could have to move, or remove your deck. 

What is required?

A deck can be simple or very complex.

However, even a simple deck must be built to meet certain requirements.

Here is a source of helpful information we have provided:

• The Deck and Ramp Design Guide contains more detailed information you will need to design the deck and draw your plans.

If you are not familiar with how the tables and other information in the guide work, we recommend that you have a qualified designer draw the plans for your project.

Building Permit

Please complete a Building Permit application and submit it with all the required information.