What Types of Decks Require EZ Permits and What Types Do Not
Introduction
When planning to build a deck in Philadelphia, understanding the permit requirements is crucial. The city offers different types of permits based on the deck's specifications and location. This post will guide you through which types of decks require EZ permits and which do not, featuring insights from Ian Kosten, a permit expeditor specialist in Philadelphia.
EZ Deck Permits: Simplified but Limited
EZ Deck Permits are designed to streamline the approval process for certain types of decks, eliminating the need for detailed plans. However, there are specific limitations:
"There are a few different types of permits for decks depending on what type of deck you want to build and the square footage of that deck. EZ Deck Permits do not require plans but have some significant limitations:
Must be 216 sqft or less
Must be in the rear yard
Cannot be above the first floor
Single Family dwelling only
“Processing time is quoted as same-day for EZ Permits but really ends up being about 5 business days," explains Ian Kosten.
Full standards can be seen on Philadelphia’s website.
EZ Deck Permits are ideal for smaller, ground-level decks situated in the rear yard of single-family homes. These decks, due to their size and location, are considered low-risk and thus qualify for a more straightforward permitting process. However, decks that do not meet these criteria require more comprehensive permits.
Decks Requiring Plans
Decks that exceed the EZ Permit limitations, such as roof decks or larger structures, must undergo a more rigorous approval process. Kosten provides further details:
"Decks that require plans include roof decks and decks that exceed the limitations above. Some things about those:
Most of these decks require a Zoning Permit for an addition, which has a 15 day review period by L&I. This zoning permit must be issued for the building permit to be approved.
These decks require a Building Permit, which has a standard 21 day review time by L&I.
These decks will require plans drawn by a licensed design professional in Philadelphia."
Roof decks in particular will also require a Pre-Construction Survey and Monitoring plan due to their structural loads being placed on shared parti-walls.
The need for zoning and building permits ensures that larger or more complex decks comply with safety standards and zoning regulations. Roof decks, for example, impact the occupied area of a lot and must be reviewed to ensure they do not violate the zoning code.
Understanding the Permit Process
The permit process for larger decks involves multiple steps. After obtaining a Zoning Permit, which verifies that the deck complies with local zoning laws, a Building Permit is required. This building permit ensures that the deck's construction adheres to safety standards and building codes.
Setback Requirements and Safety Considerations
In most cases, decks that are not above the first floor do not count against the minimum side or rear yard setbacks outlined in the zoning code. This means you can have a deck that encroaches on the required minimum yard setback, but it cannot extend to the edge of the lot.
Ian Kosten emphasizes the reasoning behind these regulations:
"The reasoning behind these choices is that a deck that is small enough and not very far off the ground poses little threat to the life or safety of people using it or neighbors. That is why an EZ permit is allowed in some instances. All other decks are either large enough to pose a safety risk or far enough off the ground to do the same, and usually require more complex construction (hence the building plan requirement). Any addition to the square footage of a property requires a zoning permit to make sure that the zoning code is followed, especially in regards to the occupied area of a lot. That is why zoning permits are needed for roof decks!"
Conclusion
Building a deck in Philadelphia requires careful consideration of the type of permit needed. EZ Deck Permits provide a simplified process for smaller, ground-level decks in the rear yard of single-family homes. For larger or more complex decks, a detailed permitting process involving zoning and building permits is necessary to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
For more detailed information or assistance with the permit application process, you can contact Ian Kosten, who specializes in permit expediting in Philadelphia. Visit his website at www.kostenexpo.com or email him at ian@kostenexpo.com.
If you’re planning to build a deck and need detailed plans, book a site visit with the team from Jane Draws Plans. We will ensure your project meets all requirements. Visit www.janedrawsplans.com/book to schedule a consultation today.
