Adding a deck to your home can significantly enhance outdoor living space and boost property value. However, before starting construction in Snohomish County, it’s crucial to understand the permit regulations that ensure safety, compliance, and legal adherence.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor, knowing the local deck-building requirements will help you avoid costly fines and delays.
Do You Need a Permit for Your Deck in Snohomish County?
In Snohomish County, a building permit is required for most deck construction projects. However, some exceptions apply. According to Washington State Building Code (WSBC) and Snohomish County’s regulations, you do not need a permit if your deck meets the following conditions:
- The deck is less than 30 inches above ground at any point.
- It is NOT attached to the home and is considered a detached platform.
- The deck does not serve as a required exit door landing per IRC R311.3.
If your deck exceeds these limits or includes structural components like guardrails, stairs, or roofing, a permit is mandatory.
How to Apply for a Deck Permit
Applying for a deck permit in Snohomish County involves several steps:
1. Determine Zoning and Setback Requirements
Before designing your deck, check the zoning laws and setback requirements. The county has restrictions on how close structures can be to property lines, water bodies, and wetlands. Use the Snohomish County Zoning Map or contact the Planning and Development Services (PDS) department to verify compliance.
2. Prepare Construction Plans
You’ll need to submit detailed deck plans, including:
- Deck dimensions (length, width, and height).
- Footing and post layout (spacing and depth per WSBC).
- Guardrails and stairs specifications (if applicable).
All drawings must follow the International Residential Code (IRC) 2021 standards, adopted by Washington State.
3. Submit a Permit Application
Permit applications can be submitted online via the MyBuildingPermit.com portal or in person at the Snohomish County Permit Center. You’ll need to pay a permit fee, which varies based on the deck size and complexity.
4. Schedule an Inspection
Once your permit is approved and construction begins, several inspections may be required:
- Footing inspection before pouring concrete.
- Framing inspection before attaching decking boards.
- Final inspection to ensure compliance with county codes.
Key Building Code Requirements for Decks
To ensure safety and compliance with Snohomish County building codes, decks must meet several structural requirements. Following these guidelines will help you pass inspections and ensure a durable, secure deck.
- 1. Footings and Support Posts
Deck footings must extend at least 12 inches below ground to provide a stable foundation. In areas where frost depth is a concern, deeper footings may be required to prevent shifting. Support posts should be pressure-treated for ground contact to resist moisture and decay, ensuring long-term durability.
- 2. Deck Joists and Beams
Proper joist and beam spacing is essential for deck stability. Most decks require joists to be spaced 16 inches on center (O.C.), although spacing may vary depending on the decking material. Beams should be securely supported using post-to-beam connections with metal connectors or other approved fasteners to prevent movement and structural failure.
- 3. Guardrails and Handrails
For decks over 30 inches high, guardrails must be at least 36 inches tall to provide adequate fall protection. Stair handrails must measure between 34 and 38 inches in height, ensuring accessibility and safety. To prevent accidents, baluster spacing should not exceed 4 inches, minimizing gaps where small children or pets could slip through.
- 4. Stairs and Landings
Deck stairs must be built with proper dimensions to ensure safe use. Stair risers CANNOT exceed 7 ¾ inches in height, and treads must be at least 10 inches deep for secure footing. Additionally, decks attached to exit doors require a minimum 3-foot by 3-foot landing to allow safe entry and exit.
Common Permit Mistakes to Avoid & Their Consequences
Skipping the deck permit process can lead to serious penalties. Below is a breakdown of common mistakes and their potential consequences in Snohomish County:
| Mistake | Potential Penalty |
|---|---|
| Skipping the Permit Process | Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 per violation, potential forced removal, and difficulty selling the home due to non-compliance. |
| Ignoring Setback Requirements | May require costly modifications or full deck removal if built too close to property lines or environmentally sensitive areas. |
| Inadequate Structural Support | Permit denial, failed inspections, and potential liability for injuries if the deck collapses. |
| Using Non-Compliant Materials | Required replacement of unapproved materials, additional permit fees, and possible structural failure risks. |
| Failing to Schedule Inspections | Project delays, increased costs for re-inspection fees, and potential stop-work orders issued by the county. |
Note: Penalties vary based on project scope and enforcement discretion. Contact Snohomish County Planning & Development Services for the latest compliance details.
Start Your Deck Project with Snohomish County Experts
At Burgess Construction, we specialize in building beautiful, code-compliant decks for homeowners across Snohomish County. Our team understands the local permit regulations inside and out, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free deck-building experience.
Call us at (425) 534-7439 or book a consultation below and see how and why we are the premium local deck-building company that homeowners like you have grown to love.