Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Virginia Beach: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Virginia Beach Permits & Inspections.
Permit Fees
Permit fees generally range from $225 to $500 for residential deck permits.
Processing Time
10-15 business days for residential permits.
Apply Online
Yes — via Virginia Beach Accela Portal
Building Code
2021 Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), based on 2021 IBC/IRC with Virginia amendments
NO exemption — a permit is required for any deck regardless of size or height, including structural alterations or repairs to existing decks.
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 Virginia Beach's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through Virginia Beach Accela Portal . 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 Virginia Beach's Virginia Beach Permits & Inspections.