7 Major Cities Where ALL Decks Need a Permit — No Exceptions (2026)
Think your small ground-level deck is exempt? Not in these cities. We found 7 major US cities that require permits for every single deck.
Cities With No Deck Permit Exemption
Most US cities follow the International Residential Code, which exempts small, low, freestanding decks from permit requirements. But not every city plays by those rules.
After researching deck permit requirements for 100 US cities, we identified several major cities that require a building permit for every deck — regardless of size, height, or whether it's attached to the house.
If you live in one of these cities, don't waste time looking for an exemption. There isn't one.
1. Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach requires a permit for any deck, no matter the size or height, and for any structural alterations or repairs to existing decks.
2. Norfolk, VA
Norfolk takes it a step further — you need both zoning approval AND a building permit for every deck. Only minor repairs (deck board replacement, tread repair) are exempt.
3. Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake has no size or height exemption. ALL decks require a permit. They even have a dedicated "Build a Deck" page on their website.
4. St. Louis, MO
St. Louis requires permits for all decks and porches — no height or size exemption. The fee structure is transparent:
5. Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati requires permits for all decks with no published exemption. The city even has a dedicated deck permit application form.
6. Boston, MA
Boston requires a building permit for all new decks. You can use a short-form permit for minor non-structural deck repairs, but any new construction needs the full process.
7. Birmingham, AL
Birmingham takes the broadest approach: any work on a single-family residence except painting and roof shingle replacement requires a building permit. That includes all decks.
Why These Cities Require Universal Permits
The common thread: safety and liability. Cities that eliminate the small-deck exemption argue that:
What This Means for You
If you live in one of these cities:
Check our complete deck permit guides for your specific city, with direct links to permit applications and fee schedules.
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*Requirements verified from official city sources in April 2026. Always confirm current rules with your local building department.*
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