Deck permits

Check whether you need a permit

• In order to obtain your building permit, your proposed deck construction must comply with all provisions of The Town of Aurora Zoning Bylaw.
• Decks less than 2 feet (≈ 610 mm) above finished grade do not require a permit. However, they must comply with the zoning requirements.
  Another Aurora page says this differently: “Wooden decks (including pool decks) with no roof, where the finished deck level is not greater than 0.6 metres (≈ 1 ft 11⅝ in) (2’) above adjacent finished grade either attached for detached to a structure.” (Applications, Permits and Inspections). Confirm before you apply: Building Division, (365) 500-2081.
• For more information about zoning requirements please visit the Zoning By-law webpage or contact (365) 500-2081.

Call before you dig

• Everyone is required to have underground utilities located and marked before doing any kind of digging.
• You can request locates for underground infrastructure by contacting Ontario One Call.

Check your designer's qualifications

• Homeowners submitting designs for their own residence are exempt from qualification and registration requirement.
• Individuals and agencies providing design services to the public have to meet the qualification and registration requirements set out by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
• You can confirm the qualification and registration status of your designer by referring to the Ministry's online qualification and registration system (QUARTs).

Download the Deck Construction Guide

• Deck Construction Guide

Prepare your plans0 of 3

You need an account to see these 3 items.It’s free. Use Sign in at the top of the page to create one, then tick the items off on any device and print them as a checklist.

Complete the forms1Download the set4 forms

• Building Permit Application FormForm2 editions

Prepare your files

All documents/reports/drawing must be provided as separate submittals and saved by proper file naming conventions of (application, architectural, plumbing, structural, foundation etc.).

• Keep filename consistent.
• Avoid the use of characters, symbols, and extra spaces in your filenames. (For example, &, *, {}, <>, _)
• Avoid inappropriate language in filenames.
• All electronic documents, plans and drawings must be submitted in PDF format, version 7 or not be locked, or password protected.
• Plans/Drawings with multiple pages and sets must be combined into a single Electronic Document (PDF format), flattened, and saved as separate submittal.
• Drawings and Specifications must be in black and white only. Full-colour renderings and photos may be submitted, but only as supplements to a sufficient set of plans.
• The scale and page size of the plans/drawings on the PDF must match the scale and page size of the full-sized plans/drawings on paper.
• Documents must be properly labelled.
• File Naming Requirements for Electronic Submission
• If you do not have an electronic copy, you can either request an electronic copy from the designer or have the drawings scanned at a copy centre.
• Plans/drawings must be at a resolution that is easily legible on screen, and the pages must not be skewed.
• Scanned resolutions of 1-bit black and white 300 dpi is usually acceptable. For plans/drawings containing fine lines and detail, 600 dpi resolution is required.
• Do not reduce the scanned document size.
• Scanning documents in full colour is only necessary if it contains photographs.

Submit your application

All applicants including homeowners are required to provide the required information electronically:

• Go to Portal
• Create an account
• Follow the steps to apply and pay for your application
• Send complete application including drawings and application forms to building@aurora.ca
• Payment information will be provided upon receipt of the application
• We also accept permit application submissions through the Building Division email which has a maximum file size of 16mb or on a USB drive in person.
• Upload all the permit application and related drawings and documentation on a USB drive.
• Bring USB drive to Building Division in person
• Provide payment at counter
• A USB drive containing the PDF files must contain only the PDF files for the Building Permit application, and not contain documents that are compressed or zipped.
• Please note all electronic submissions will be reviewed for completeness. Should any items be missing applicant will receive notification through the Portal or by email.
• Note: Missing information or payment may delay the processing time.
• For further information on electronic submission, please email building@aurora.ca or call (365) 500-2081.

Pay the fee

• Payable at time of application by cheque, cash, debit or credit card
  Another Aurora page says this differently: “all application submissions must be accompanied by a payment by either cheque, debit or credit card (Visa or Master Card).” (Applications, Permits and Inspections). Confirm before you apply: Building Division, (365) 500-2081.
• Permits and Fees