Decks

The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code requires a building permit for any house, addition or work to finish off existing space. It states any work that is structural in nature requires a permit. It does exclude cosmetic changes (such as painting, installing vinyl siding, replacing carpet, etc.) and ordinary repairs (such as replacing cabinetry, kitchen appliances (except gas equipment), electrical switches, electric water heaters, reroofing, etc.). For additional information, call the Building Safety office at (757) 890-3522.

The following permits are required for deck projects:

• Building permit
• Electrical permit - May be required depending on the scope of work

Application Submission Requirements

• Building Permit Application (PDF)
• Plot plan showing setbacks from existing and proposed improvements. Acceptable plot plans contain the following:
  • Entire property, showing all property line dimensions.
  • Existing dwelling, any other existing structures and the proposed structure location (clearly indicate all proposed structure dimensions). For proposed accessory structures, indicate the overall height.
  • Setbacks from the closest point of the proposed structure to property lines in each direction. Label the measurements from each property line to the closest point on the structure. Be as exact as possible and clearly label the road name.
• Construction plans (two or more copies) - We'll return one copy to you with the issued permit. For technical design criteria, download the Residential Deck Guide from the American Wood Council.
• Plan review fee of $90.

Construction Plan Requirements

Construction plans require two or more copies that include:

• Details of the attachment of the deck to the structure
• Floor plan and floor framing
• Footing details
• Guard rail and picket framing details
• If the deck will support a hot tub, provide a design of the deck sealed by a Registered Design Professional to verify the deck can support all loads imposed by the hot tub
• Deck post location and size

Plan Detail Requirements

General requirements for all construction drawings include:

• Numbered - Number each plan sheet
• Scale - Draw structural plans to architectural scale (typically 1/4 inches, 3/16 inches or 1/8 inches)
• Legible - Make sure the plans are neat and legible (no handwritten notes)
• Orientation - Lay out all drawings in the same orientation (portrait or landscape)

Plan View Requirements

Plan views for footing and foundation, elevations and framing must include:

• Perimeter and interior dimensions
• All beams identified
• All beams carrying more than 4,000 pounds (identify the column on each end)
• Size and direction of all joists:
  • For I-joists or open-web joists, provide the manufacturer's layout plan.
  • Identification on plans similar to:
    • Nominal lumber: 2 by 8 SYP at 16 inches on center (o.c.)
    • I-joists: Truss Joist, Series 230, 11 feet 7/8 inches, 16 inches o.c.
    • Elevations: Two elevations (from the front and side)