- Is higher than 0.6 m (2') above grade
- Will be covered by a roof, attached to your home, or connected to another structure
Decks (Covered and Uncovered)
A deck permit ensures your project is built safely and complies with local building codes and regulations.
Before beginning construction, review the information on this page to ensure your project meets all requirements and that you have applied for the necessary permits.
When do you need a permit?
You need a building permit if you are constructing, enlarging, or rebuilding a deck that:
- A freestanding deck that is less than 0.6 meters (2 feet) above ground and not attached to a building or structure.
How to apply?
You can apply online through eApply or in person at City Hall.
Your application should include:
- Property address and description of work
- A site plan showing the deck's location and distances from property lines and other buildings
- Construction drawings showing framing details, supports, stairs, and guardrails
- Details on deck height, railing type, and foundation (piles or footings)
If your project includes a covered structure, roof, or pergola, additional drawings may be required
Permit Fees
- Residential addition or renovation: minimum permit fee of $110.00 plus applicable Safety Codes Council levy. Fees increase based on the total construction value.
- Commercial addition or renovation: minimum permit fee of $250.00 plus applicable Safety Codes Council levy. Fees increase based on the total construction value.
- Additional fees may apply for trades (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), or re-inspections
Inspections
Inspections are required at key stages of construction:
- Foundation (covered deck)
- Final
You must schedule inspections at least one business day in advance. Please schedule using the eInspections portal.
Things to know before you start
Helpful information to support homeowners and contractors in understanding key considerations, requirements, and resources for deck (covered and uncovered) development.
A setback is the minimum required distance between a structure and the property lines surrounding it.
Decks over 0.6 m (2') in height must meet the following minimum setbacks:
- Front: 6 m (20')
- Sides: 1.2 m (4')
- Rear (uncovered decks): 5 m (16'-6")
- Rear (covered decks): 7.6 m (25')
Decks 0.6 m (2') or lower may project into the setback area.
Knowing where underground utilities are located is essential before starting any project - even if you're not directly working with gas or electrical lines.
- Schedule free utility marking through Click Before You Dig.
- You may build a deck over underground utilities if the lines are not at risk. For guidance, contact ATCO Gas.
- Ensure your deck maintains a minimum clearance of 3.5 m (11'-6") between the walking surface and any overhead power lines.
- For general utility inquiries, contact Lethbridge 311.
Covered decks must be designed to safely support their own weight, snow loads, and resist wind uplift.
Acceptable foundation types include:
- Pier/post on a pad footing installed 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 0.9 m (3') must be supported by one of the following:
- Pier/post on a pad footing installed at least 1.2 m (4') below grade
- Engineered concrete piles
- Engineered screw piles
Guards are not required when a deck is less than 0.6 m (2') above grade.
Guards are required when a deck:
- Is between 0.6 m (2') and 1.8 m (6') above grade - guard height must be at least 0.9 m (3')
- Is more than 1.8 m (6') above grade - guard height must be at least 1.1 m (3'-6"
The maximum permitted space between balusters is 0.1 m (4")
Handrails are required on stairways with more than three risers, regardless of deck height.
Related Links
Additional resources and related information can be found below.
Contact Us
City Hall
910 4 Avenue South
Lethbridge, AB T1J 0P6
Phone: 311
or 403-320-3111 (if outside of Lethbridge)