Decks
Building a deck can improve your outdoor living space and add value to your property. Depending on the size and location of your deck, you may need a building permit before construction begins.
A building permit is required in Milton if your deck is:
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a freestanding deck greater than 10 m² in area
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attached to a building or structure
Before starting your project, review the permit requirements, required drawings, zoning regulations, and inspection requirements to help avoid delays during the approval process.
This is for:
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Homeowners building a new deck
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Homeowners replacing or enlarging an existing deck
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Contractors applying on behalf of homeowners
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Property owners planning a deck as part of a larger renovation project
Before you apply, gather the required forms and supporting drawings.
Required forms
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Schedule 1 – Designer Information Form (required when someone other than an architect or engineer prepares the design)
Construction drawings
Submit the following drawings with your application:
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Site plan (sample D-1)
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Deck structural/floor layout (sample D-2)
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Deck section and details (sample D-3)
Refer to the sample drawings for specific drawing requirements, including the number of copies required. Review the application guidelines before submitting your application.
Building permit fees for deck construction are listed on the Building Permit page.
Applicable fees may include:
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Unenclosed deck or porch permit fee
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Deck alteration building permit fee
Before building your deck, review the Zoning By-law to ensure your project complies with all applicable requirements. This includes regulations related to:
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Deck height
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Privacy screening
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Deck location and setbacks
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Stairs
Meeting zoning requirements before applying can help prevent delays during the permit review process.
Additional requirements may apply if your subdivision has not yet been assumed by the Town of Milton. In these cases, you must obtain a developer's clearance letter from the builder before a permit can be issued.
To determine whether your subdivision has been assumed, call 905-878-7252 ext. 2398.
Once you have gathered the required forms and drawings:
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Complete the Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish.
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Complete the Schedule 1 – Designer Information Form, if required.
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Submit your completed application package, including all supporting drawings and documents, to the online portal.
Town staff will review your application and supporting drawings to confirm compliance with the Ontario Building Code and applicable zoning regulations.
If additional information is required, staff will contact you.
After your permit has been issued and construction is underway, you must book the required building inspection. Inspections help ensure your deck meets Ontario Building Code and zoning requirements.
Typical deck inspections include:
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Footing inspection
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Framing inspection
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Final inspection