Deck permits · New Westminster, BC
Do you need a permit for a deck in New Westminster?
Usually yes. New Westminster's guides list building, covering or enclosing a sun deck as work that needs a permit.
What the rules say
New Westminster's deck permit rules
The City's residential building permit guide (March 2011) lists 'construct, cover or enclose a porch or sun deck' as work requiring a permit, and its Guide for Residential Deck Construction (June 2019) states no erection, alteration, enlargement or repair of a structure may begin without a permit. No current official page stating a deck height or size exemption was found.
Covered decks and roofs
Covering or enclosing a porch or sun deck requires a permit (2011 guide). Floor area or site coverage treatment is not stated.
Other local rules worth knowing
Per the 2019 deck guide, drawings must show setbacks for all structures and guard type and height; structural engineer documents are needed only where an engineer provides design and field review.
Official source
New Westminster building permitsRules and fees change. Always confirm with the municipality before you build.
Before you apply
What a New Westminster deck permit usually involves
- A site plan showing the deck, property lines and setbacks
- Drawings: foundation or footing plan, framing plan, cross-section and elevation
- Guard and stair details
- Engineering for high, covered or unusual decks
- Lot coverage or floor area numbers where zoning needs them
- Inspections during the build, usually footings and framing, then final
A general guide. New Westminster may ask for more or less depending on the project.
Questions
New Westminster deck permit questions
Do I need a permit for a deck in New Westminster?
Usually yes. New Westminster's guides list building, covering or enclosing a sun deck as work that needs a permit.
Do covered decks need a permit in New Westminster?
Covering or enclosing a porch or sun deck requires a permit (2011 guide). Floor area or site coverage treatment is not stated.
Who applies for a deck permit in New Westminster?
Usually your deck builder prepares the drawings, applies and books inspections as part of the job. Check that the permit, drawings and any engineering are included in each quote.
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