The City of Philadelphia requires all individuals to obtain permits prior to constructing a wood deck for a single family dwelling that is 12 -inches or more above the ground. The cost is $52.00 to cover the $25.00 Zoning permit, $25.00 Building permit and the $2.00 State fee.  If construction is started without a permit and a violation is issued, an additional special inspection fee will be imposed equal to the Building and Zoning permit fees.

REQUIREMENTS

1. General Construction
1. All lumber must be pressure treated or naturally durable, such as redwood or cedar
2. All hardware must be non-corrosive
3. The foundation must be a minimum of 2'6" below ground
4. The guardrail vertical balusters may have a maximum opening of 4"
5. Complex decks and/or deck exceeding 400 sq. ft in area are required to be certified by an registered architect or engineer

2. Zoning Requirements
1. Complete a Zoning Permit Application
2. Provide six (6) copies of a Plot Plan.
1. Definition
2. Example
3. The plot plan will be reviewed for compliance with following Zoning requirements
1. The deck can not be located in the front or side yard.
2. The guard rail height may be a minimum of 36-inches and a maximum of 42-inches.
3. The deck can not have a roof, walls, stairs, or an enclosure beneath the deck.
4. Deck supports must not prevent vehicle access to the garage or parking space, regardless of its use.
5. A minimum distance of 3-feet must be maintained from the deck to the rear property line or common driveway.
6. All support columns must have a 1-foot,
7. 6-inch clearance from the side lot lines if they are within 4-feet, 6-inches of the common driveway.
8. For decks above driveways, the clearance between the lowest horizontal support beam and the driveway must be at least 6 feet.
9. A deck attached to buildings located on the corner must not extend beyond the building line.

3. Building Requirements
1. Complete the Building Permit Application
2. Provide three (3) copies of a sketch of the deck, including:
1. Size and spacing of joists
2. Size and spacing of posts
3. Size of beam
4. Siz and method to attachment of ledger
5. Height of deck above grade
6. Sample Plan View 
7. Sample Cross Section Sketch

HOW DO I FILE?

Application forms are available in the Municipal Services Building Concourse or may be obtained through the mail by calling 215-686-2471