Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in New York City: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB).
Permit Fees
Minimum filing fee: $130 (per Local Law 128 of 2024, effective Dec 21, 2025). Actual fee calculated on sliding scale based on estimated construction cost. Residential alteration fees range from ~$300-$10,000+ depending on scope.
Processing Time
Alteration Type 2 (Alt-2) permits: typically 4-8 weeks. Each objection/correction cycle adds 2-4 weeks.
Apply Online
Yes — via DOB NOW: Build
Building Code
2022 NYC Construction Codes (based on 2015 IBC with NYC-specific amendments, effective November 7, 2022)
NYC does not have a simple height/size exemption like most cities. Virtually all exterior construction work requires DOB filing. Consult DOB for specific project requirements.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check New York City's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through DOB NOW: Build . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
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Sources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with New York City's NYC Department of Buildings (DOB).