When your deck needs a permit, and who pulls it.
The four triggers from the City of Lake Stevens Deck Tip Sheet (2021 IRC with Washington amendments), in plain English, and what we do about them.
200 square feet or more. 30 inches or more above grade. Attached to the house. Serving the exit door. Any one means a permit.
Most real decks need one. We handle it.
Almost any deck attached to the house needs a Lake Stevens permit, whatever its size. A small freestanding platform under 200 sq ft and under 30 inches off the ground usually does not. Outside the city limits, Snohomish County has its own process; we handle that too.
The permit covers drawings showing footings, framing, ledger attachment, stairs and guards. We produce the drawings, submit them, answer the reviewer's comments and schedule the inspections. The fee is shown as its own line on your written estimate.
- Drawings by us
- Submission and review comments
- Footing, framing and final inspections
- Permit fee shown as a line item
Permit questions
Do I need a permit for a deck in Lake Stevens?
Yes if the deck is 200 sq ft or more, 30 inches or more above grade at any point, attached to the house, or serves the required exit door (City of Lake Stevens Deck Tip Sheet, 2021 IRC). We handle the drawings and the permit.
What if I replace my old deck with the same size?
A rebuild that meets any of the four triggers needs a permit like a new deck would. Resurfacing boards on a sound frame generally does not; we confirm with the city.
Does a covered deck or pergola change anything?
A roof adds load and is almost always attached to the house, so yes, it needs a permit and footings sized for it.
How long does review take?
It varies by city and season. We submit as early as we can and build as soon as it is issued; a typical deck is on site about a week after that.
Who schedules the inspections?
We do. Footings, framing and final are typical; you do not need to be home for them.
Get a free estimate.
We will tell you at the site visit whether your deck needs a permit and what it costs. Call 425-667-1123.
Get a free estimate