Decks
A guide to prepare your building permit application for a deck.
Decks greater than 10 square metres in area and higher than 61 centimetres above the adjacent grade require a building permit. Any size deck attached to a house requires a building permit. All decks must comply with the zoning by-law applicable to the property.
Before preparing your permit
Some approvals and permits must be in place before you start preparing your building permit application.
Contact Ontario One Call at 1-800-400-2255 before you dig to locate underground utilities and avoid damage during construction.
Project preparation
Detailed information is needed to properly evaluate your plans and the unique conditions of your property:
Verify that your plans, proposed dimensions and location are permitted under the Town of Oakville's zoning by-laws which regulate the use, shape and location of buildings on properties.
To learn more visit our Zoning page or contact us at 905-845-6601 ext. 3955.
You will require a separate zoning certificate of occupancy approval. Apply online at online services.
Heritage properties are managed to conserve important cultural heritage attributes. If your property is on the town's heritage registry it may require heritage approval.
Learn more on our Heritage Planning page or contact a town heritage planner for assistance at 905-845-6601 ext . 3870 or 3875.
Trees on your property, your neighbour's property and on the municipal right of way may require tree protection, particularly when heavy equipment and excavation is involved. In certain instances, a permit may be required to remove private trees. Learn more about tree removal and how to find a licensed arborist.
If your project includes excavation and your property backs onto green space, a river bed or wetland you will need Conservation Halton approval.
Learn more at Conservation Halton. Contact Conservation Halton for approval at web@hrca.on.ca or 905-336-1158.
Submission material checklist
Digital copies of drawings and documents are required, scaled to size and flattened. If preparing the documentation is beyond your comfort level or experience, we recommend working with a building code qualified (BCIN) designer, architect or engineer. Here is an example - Deck building permit - Sample drawings (pdf)
Prepare the following documents:
- Site plan
- Framing plan
- Elevations - stair, guard and railing details
- Sections - showing footings and how the deck attaches to the house
- Schedule 1 designer information (pdf)
- Heritage Planning approval, if applicable to your property
- Conservation Halton approval, if applicable to your property
- Tree protection declaration (pdf)
- Fees
Need help?
Contact Building Services:
buildingrequests@oakville.ca
905-845-6601 ext. 7377
Build smart. Build safe. Build with a permit.