PlainPermit

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Do I need a permit for a deck in Philadelphia, PA?

Last verified: · Confidence: high · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
Depends on your project Confidence: high

Decks less than 12 in above ground need no permits. Higher decks need zoning and building permits; residential decks up to 216 sq ft can get an EZ permit without plans.

What changes the answer

Cost

Fee not extracted; see L&I. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.phila.gov/services/permits-violations-licenses/apply-for-a-permit/building-and-repair-permits/get-permits-without-plans-ez-permits/

Where to apply

Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (eCLIPSE online permits)

Permitting authority: City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). Applies in the City and County of Philadelphia. Properties on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places may need Historical Commission review. Zoning permits are separate from building permits.

Official sources

“Decks, less than 12” above ground NO NO NO NO”

Source: https://www.phila.gov/media/20260602151416/StartRight-FINAL-6.2026.pdf

“Residential decks up to 216 sq. ft. (excluding roof decks)”

Source: https://www.phila.gov/services/permits-violations-licenses/apply-for-a-permit/building-and-repair-permits/get-permits-without-plans-ez-permits/

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: high

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Other projects in Philadelphia

Deck permits in other cities