Deck permits

Check whether you need a permit

• Decks greater than 10 square metres (≈ 108 sq ft) in area and higher than 61 centimetres (≈ 2 ft) above the adjacent grade require a building permit.
• Any size deck attached to a house requires a building permit.
  Another Oakville page says this differently: “Deck greater than 0.61 metres (≈ 2 ft) (two feet) in height and is attached to a building” (Building Permit Application Process). Confirm before you apply: Building department, 905-845-6601 ext. 7377.
• All decks must comply with the zoning by-law applicable to the property.

Before you prepare your application

Some approvals and permits must be in place before you start preparing your building permit application.

• Contact the Ontario Dig Authority 1-800-400-2255 before you dig to locate underground utilities and avoid damage during construction.
• Verify that your plans, proposed dimensions and location are permitted under the Town of Oakville's zoning by-laws which regulate the use, shape and location of buildings on properties.
• To learn more visit our Zoning page or contact us at 905-845-6601 ext. 3955.
• Trees on your property, your neighbour's property and on the municipal right of way may require tree protection, particularly when heavy equipment and excavation is involved.
• In certain instances, a permit may be required to remove private trees.
• Learn more about tree removal and how to find a licensed arborist.

Prepare your plans0 of 6

Digital copies of drawings and documents are required, scaled to size and flattened. If preparing the documentation is beyond your comfort level or experience, we recommend working with a building code qualified (BCIN) designer, architect or engineer.

You need an account to see these 6 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 forms2Download the set3 forms

• Schedule 1 designer informationForm
• Tree protection declarationForm

Submit your application

• Orient drawings in landscape. Orient forms and documents in portrait.
• Save files in Vector PDF format, unlocked/editable, greyscale, flattened into a single layer and free of comments.
• Naming conventions: Please name your files according to the standardized naming conventions.
• Use Chrome or Safari for the best experience.
• If it is your first time using our online services, you need to create a user name and password. If you have an existing account, you can use the same username and password.
• Provide information about your project and upload your drawings and documents. You do not need to provide the Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish.
• The review and approval process of your submitted documents regarding your building permit application will be processed through the ePlan, powered by ProjectDox software, if your application requires drawings to be uploaded.

Pay the fee

• The minimum fee for a building permit is $200.
• You will be prompted to pay a $100 pre-screening fee when you submit your request online. This non-refundable deposit will be credited towards the total cost of your permit.
• Subsequent resubmissions are subject to the non-refundable pre-screen fee.
• The total fees depend on the size, type and use of the proposed project or building. The exact cost of your permit will be calculated once we pre-screen your request.
• Building Services - Rates and Fees
• Credit card up to $10,000 payable by signing into your town account
• Email transfer up to $10,000 through your financial institution to buildingrequests@oakville.ca
• Electronic funds transfer (EFT) in any amount with direct payment to the Town of Oakville’s bank account. Please direct the EFT notification to accountsreceivable@oakville.ca and notify Building Services once payment has been made at buildingrequests@oakville.ca
• Cheques are still accepted made payable to the Town of Oakville, and mailed or delivered to:
• Town of Oakville Attn: Building Services 1225 Trafalgar Road Oakville, ON L6H 0H3
• There may be additional fees such as development charges or deposits you need to pay before your permit is issued.