It’s important to know where your utilities are, even if your project doesn’t need gas or electricity.

• Visit Click Before You Dig to schedule free utility marking
• You can build a deck above underground utilities if the lines aren’t put at risk. Contact ATCO Gas for more information
• Make sure your completed deck has clearance of at least 3.5 m (11′-6″) between the walking surface and overhead power lines
• For questions about utilities, contact Lethbridge 311

A setback is the minimum distance allowed between a structure and the surrounding property lines.

Decks more than 0.6 m (2′) in height must meet the minimum setback requirements:

• Front – 6 m (20′)
• Sides – 1.2 m (4′)
• Back – 5 m (16′-6″) for uncovered decks
• Back – 7.6 m (25′) for covered decks

Decks less than 0.6 m (2′) in height can project into the minimum setback requirements.

Covered decks are required to carry their weight and snow load and prevent against wind uplift. Acceptable foundations include:

• Pier/post on pad footing, at least 1.2 m (4′) below grade
• Strip footings
• Engineered cast in place concrete piles (friction piles)
• Engineered screw piles

Uncovered decks with a standing platform exactly 0.9 m (3′) or less in height may be supported with a combined concrete pier and sidewalk block on grade.

Decks with a standing platform greater than 0.9 m (3′) in height must be supported on either:

• Pier/post on pad footing, at least 1.2 m (4′) below grade
• Engineered concrete piles
• Engineered screw piles

Guards are not required if the deck measures less than 0.6 m (2′) in height above grade.

Guards are required if the deck:

• Is between 0.6 m (2′) and 1.8 m (6′) in height. Guards must be at least 0.9 m (3′)
• Is more than 1.8 m (6′) in height. Guards must be at least 1.1 m (3′-6″)

The maximum space allowed between balusters is 0.1 m (4″).

Handrails are required when a staircase exceeds more than three (3) risers, regardless of height.

Decks more than 0.6 m (2′) in height above grade need to get development approval.

If your project requires a development permit, you must get one before applying for any other permits. Fill out a Development Permit Application, then submit it to planninganddesign@lethbridge.ca.

You need a building permit for decks that:

• Measure more than 0.6 m (2′) in height above grade
• Have a roof, covering, or walls
• Support a large structure, such as a pergola, gazebo, or hot tub

You don’t need a building permit for uncovered decks less than 0.6 m (2′) in height above grade.

Be sure to include the following with your building permit application. Missing or incomplete documents could delay the application process.

• Site plan
• Elevation plan
• Design plan
• Cross-section

All decks need a final inspection. You can book a final inspection once work on your deck is complete.

You can book an inspection for weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding stat holidays.

Booking requests received before 1 p.m. will be scheduled for the next day.

Booking requests received after 1 p.m. will be scheduled for the day after next.

A homeowner, contractor, or appointed party must be on site to grant access for the inspector. If an inspector shows up and no one is there to grant access, they will leave a notice to reschedule on the door.

Note: Minors under 18 years old can’t grant access without supervision.