Deck

Deck Building Permits & Architectural Drawings In Ottawa

Adding a deck to your home can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and increase your property value. If you live in Ottawa, there are a few things you need to know in order to get started. First, you will need to submit various architectural drawings and building plans in order to obtain a permit. The city works with homeowners on smaller projects, and will accept non-professional drawings in these cases. However, if you are planning on building a larger deck, you will need to hire an architect. Second, it is important to be aware of the city’s bylaws surrounding decks. These include regulations related to the height and location of your deck. Finally, once you have all the necessary permits, you can begin construction. With a little bit of planning, you can soon enjoy your new outdoor space.

When Is An Architect Required For a Deck Building Permit?

Any time you are planning on building a deck, it is important to consult with a professional architect. This is especially true for decks that are large in size, are over a certain height, are floating decks, or are fastened to masonry blocks or brick. An architect will be able to help you design a structure that is strong enough to support the load and that meets all local building code requirements. In addition, an architect can also help you select the right materials for your deck and make sure that the deck is properly ventilated. As such, it is important to consult with an architect prior to beginning any deck-building project. This will help to ensure that your new deck is both safe and structurally sound.

How to Obtain A Deck Building Permit?

Under the Building Code Act, a building permit is required for the construction of a new deck over 10 square metres (approximately 108 square feet).

Architectural Drawings Require To Build A Deck?

Required architectural drawings for decks include two complete sets of plans that are legible and drawn to conventional scale are required to be submitted with the Building Permit Application Form. 

Site Plan Drawing to include:

Lot lines including dimensions.

Location of proposed sundeck dimensioned to other buildings and lot lines.

Municipal address

Foundation Plan Drawing:

Footing size and location.

Structure including beams, floor joist including size, span, and direction.

Full dimensions. Elevations Drawing to include: The general appearance of the deck.

Cross Section Drawing to include: 

Footing depth and construction. 

Height of deck walking surface above grade.

Height of guard above walking surface.

Step details.

Deck construction.

Guard construction.

Support details such as deck to house connection

Do You Need a Deck Building Permit?

  • If the deck is adjacent to or attached to the house and its walking surface is more than 600 mm (24 in.) above the adjacent grade, a permit is required.
  • if the deck is an elevated deck providing principal access to a building a permit is required.
  • If the deck is independent from the house (eg. is in the middle of the yard) and has a walking surface greater than 10 square metres (approximately 108 square feet) in area and its walking surface is more than 600 mm (24 in.) above the adjacent grade, a permit is required.

Deck Building Inspections

The construction of any new structure is a complex undertaking, and there are a number of regulations that need to be followed in order to ensure the safety of both the workers and the end users. One of the most important steps in the process is obtaining sign-off from the building inspectors, who ensure that the structure has been built to specification. Architects play a crucial role in this process, as they are responsible for providing clear and concise plans that the builders can follow. In addition to ensuring that the deck is up to code, the architect can also provide guidance on how to best take advantage of the available space. As such, they are an essential part of the team when it comes to building a new deck.

At key stages of building construction, your deck must be inspected to ensure that the completed construction complies with the Ontario Building Code.  We help with approval by supplying the permit plans and specifications on site making sure they are available to the Building Inspector at the time of inspection.

We can help schedule and the inspection to ensure the availability of a Building Inspector.  Failure to have the appropriate inspection performed may result in having to uncover and expose the work for inspection, but when working with a reputable architect you wont miss any inspections!

Scheduled Inspections When Building a Deck In Ottawa

After obtaining your building permit, Ottawa requires 3 inspections during the construction of your new deck.  The inspections include the foundation inspections checking backfill, depth and piers, a framing inspections ensuring proper fasteners are used and a final inspection to check the railings, stairs and framing safety.