What Happens If I Build A Deck Without Permit?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Building deck without a permit

may result in removing it, possible penalties and back property taxes

. A building permit is required if the deck is attached to the house or is 30 inches above grade. … The bylaws might affect how big of a deck you can build and how close to a property line, among other factors.

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Pennsylvania?


Decks less than 30” high (measured from grade) do not require a Building Permit

. For decks and porches over 30” high or having a roof, a Permit is required.

Do you need a permit to build a deck in PA?

A Building Permit is required for a

deck where the floor surface is greater than 30 inches above grade at any point

. … The footings must be a minimum of 36 inches below grade.

What happens if you build without a permit in PA?

If you fail to obtain permits, inspections and certificates of occupancy, it is very likely that you will have serious difficulties when

you eventually try to sell your house or property

, as all structures built since April 9, 2004 must have a legal certificate of occupancy.

How much does a Building Permit cost in PA?

Service Fee 6. Annual

Permit

Standard fee


$336.65

Expedited Permits


$1,385.39

Plus $167.80 per hour for inspections that occur outside of normal business hours
7. Revision of approved plans

Can I build a deck on my own?

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.

How high can a freestanding deck be?

A Good Rule Of Thumb For Height Restrictions

I can speak from years of experience that free standing decks can be built extremely strong easily up to

six or seven feet high

. This requires 2×6 diagonal bracing from post to beam and cross bracing underneath the deck framing.

Can I do my own electrical work in Pennsylvania?

Don’t Try to DIY, Hire A-1 Electric!!

Pennsylvania doesn’t offer “state licenses,” so if you hear an electrician say that they do, run away fast and don’t look back. …

Electricians are not allowed

(at least in the state of Pennsylvania) to start any work without a contract and agreement, period.

How deep should footers be for a deck in PA?

Footings shall be minimum 20 inches square or 22 inches diameter (Figure 5). Bottom of footings shall be

a minimum of 24 inches below grade

and shall bear on solid ground.

Can you live in a shed in PA?

A shed is considered an accessory building not a main dwelling. So if you want your shed to be a home it must meet PA UCC requirements correct? Otherwise the only other classification of the shed would be a “recreational cabin” and even then

PA does not allow year round living in a recreational cabin

.

Do I need a permit to renovate my bathroom in PA?


Most electrical or plumbing renovations need a permit

, such as bathroom remodels. If you plan to do an interior remodel and only change the visual elements of your bathroom, a permit is not required.

What permits are needed to build a house in PA?

For example, if your project involves electrical work, you will also need to get an electrical permit. Other common permits for building projects including plumbing permits,

mechanical and HVAC permits

for heating and ventilation systems, fire alarm permits, and fire suppression system permits.

How much is a pool permit in PA?

Payment of Permit Fees

The Zoning Permit fee for all swimming pools is

$25.00

.

Do I need a permit to finish my basement in PA?

While the State of Pennsylvania’s

Building Code does not require a building permit

(and thus no inspections) for the renovation or finishing of a basement unless there will be structural work, the home owner is still obligated to meet the requirements of the code for finishing basements.

Can a beginner build a deck?


Decks

can be single level or multi-level; they can be some of the simplest “first” projects for a beginner, or elaborate examples of sophisticated craftsmanship. Decks are quite often the first project many beginning do-it-yourselfers tackle, but it’s important to understand the basics of deck construction.

What is the cheapest way to build a deck?


Pressure-treated wood, or chemical-treated wood

, decks are generally the cheapest material to build decks with.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.