Deck Permit in Winston-Salem, NC (2026)

Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Winston-Salem: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Winston-Salem Inspections Division.

Verified from official Winston-Salem sources — Last checked April 2026

Quick Facts for Winston-Salem

Permit Fees

Single family additions: minimum $100.

Processing Time

Submit through BuildIT (GeoCivix) portal.

Apply Online

Yes — via BuildIT Portal

Building Code

North Carolina State Building Code (IRC/IBC with NC amendments)

Contact: 336-727-2624

Do You Need a Deck Permit in Winston-Salem?

Permit Exemption

Per NC General Statute 160D-1110, some minor work may not need a 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.

Winston-Salem-Specific Deck Rules

All permits applied electronically through BuildIT portal
Deck additions need scaled site plan with property lines and setbacks
Workers Comp Affidavit required
Septic lots need Forsyth County Health Department approval
Historic districts may need Certificate of Appropriateness

How to Get a Deck Permit in Winston-Salem

1

Check if your deck needs a permit

Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.

2

Prepare your plans

You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Winston-Salem's specific documentation requirements.

3

Submit your application

Apply through BuildIT Portal . Pay the permit fee at submission.

4

Build and schedule inspections

Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).

Official Winston-Salem Resources

BuildIT Portal — Apply for Permits Online
Transparency note: The following items could not be verified from official city sources and should be confirmed directly: Exact deck permit fees; NC Building Code edition year; Frost line depth.

Estimate Your Deck Cost

Get an instant cost estimate for your deck project in Winston-Salem.

Deck Cost Calculator

Sources

https://www.cityofws.org/2927/Single-Family-Building-Permitshttps://www.cityofws.org/1683/Construction-Permits

Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Winston-Salem's Winston-Salem Inspections Division.