Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Washington: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the DC Department of Buildings.
Permit Fees
$30.00 + (2% of construction value from $1,001-$1,000,000) + 10% surcharge. Range: $55-$22,033.
A $10,000 deck project: approximately $230 ($30 + $180 value fee + $21 surcharge).
Processing Time
1-2 business days (application processed within 24 hours of full submission).
Apply Online
Yes — via DC Permit Wizard
Building Code
2017 DC Construction Code (based on 2015 IBC/IRC with DC amendments)
Decks 500 sq ft or less on single/two-family dwellings can use simplified Deck Permit application (no design professional required). No full exemption from permit.
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 Washington's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through DC Permit Wizard . 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 Washington's DC Department of Buildings.