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Building Permits >

Size Requirements

• Decks covered by roofs, plus the total area of all other roofed over structures, shall not exceed 40% of the lot area, 45% for corner lots
• Open decks are not limited in size but must comply with the location requirements listed below.

Location Requirements

• All decks must comply with set-back requirements, as established for dwellings. You may consult the building inspector to obtain the required set-back information for your lot.
• A minimum of 10 ft is required between the deck and a detached garage on the same property.

Materials Requirements

• Wood shall be treated or naturally decay resistant.
• All fasteners (i.e., bolts, nails, screws, hangers) must be corrosion resistant.
• Wood connectors (i.e., joist hangers, framing anchors) must be installed with the proper fasteners. Deck screws should not be used at these locations.
• Posts supporting a roof system shall be a minimum of four (4) inches by six (6) inches

Footings Requirements

• Footing depth shall be a minimum of forty-eight (48) inches below grade.
• Footing diameter (hole size) should be sized to support the imposed loads (50 psf), 8" minimum depth.

Permit Submittal Requirements

• Permit application should be accompanied by two copies of plan and one survey. These documents should include
  • a survey or accurately drawn plot plan showing the proposed location of the deck
  • distances to property lines and other structures
  • one set of dimensioned and scaled construction drawings which includes size, location and spacing of the posts
  • footing detail
  • size, spacing and span of the joists
  • size, spacing and span of the beams/girders
  • method of attachment of the beam/girders to the posts and the ledger to the dwelling
  • type of decking material
  • stair details (if applicable)
  • location and size of new or existing doors which lead onto the deck
• Permit fees are due when permit is issued

Inspection Requirements

• The Department will issue a green inspection card, which must be posted and available for the inspector's signature(s).
• Inspection required of footing/post holes before concrete is poured
• Inspection required of framing before decking is applied
• A final inspection is required

This information details basic code requirements to consider when contemplating residential deck projects. Additional code requires may apply. For further information, please contact the City of West Allis Department of Building inspections and Zoning.

Building Inspection and Zoning Department

Director

West Allis City Hall