Milwaukee residents who are planning to build a deck on their property must obtain a deck-building permit from the city. This article will guide you through the process of getting a deck building permit in Milwaukee, including the requirements and regulations you need to follow.

Building a deck, such as one from Excel Custom Decks, is a great way to expand your outdoor living space and add value to your home. However, before you start building, it’s essential to understand the regulations and requirements for deck building permits in Milwaukee.

Why do you need a deck building permit in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee requires all property owners who plan to build a deck to obtain a deck building permit. This permit ensures that the deck is constructed safely and meets all the building codes and zoning laws of the city.

Steps to obtain a deck building permit in Milwaukee

To obtain a deck building permit in Milwaukee, you need to follow these steps:

Determine the size and location of the deck you want to build.
Get in touch with the Department of Neighborhood Services (DNS) to get a zoning permit. You can visit their website or go to their office in person.
After getting the zoning permit, you can start designing your deck. You can DIY or hire our professional deck builders at Excel Custom Decks.
Once you have the deck design, you need to get a plan review from the Milwaukee Building Inspection Division (BID). This can be done online or in person.
After receiving the plan review, you can apply for a building permit from BID. You will need to provide the plan review, zoning permit, and other required documents.
Pay the required fees.
Once you receive your permit, you can start building your deck.

Building regulations and requirements for Milwaukee deck permits

Milwaukee has specific regulations and requirements that you must follow when building a deck. Here are some of the regulations:

The deck must be built on the ground or attached to the house.
The deck must be at least three feet away from the property lines.
The deck must be a maximum of 30 inches above the ground.
The railing must be at least 36 inches high.
The spacing between the balusters must not exceed four inches.
The ledger board must be attached to the house with lag bolts or bolts that are at least ½ inch in diameter.
The footings must be a minimum of 42 inches deep.

Types of deck building Permits in Milwaukee

Milwaukee offers two types of deck-building permits:

Residential Deck Permit: This permit is required for any deck that is less than 200 square feet and less than 30 inches above the ground.
Building Permit: This permit is required for any deck that is more than 200 square feet or higher than

Applying for a deck building permit in Milwaukee

To apply for a deck building permit in Milwaukee, you need to submit the following documents:

Zoning permit from the Department of Neighborhood Services
Plan review from the Milwaukee Building Inspection Division
Two sets of construction plans, including structural and engineering drawings, if necessary
Building permit application form
Proof of property ownership or written permission from the owner
Payment of fees

Fees for Milwaukee deck building permits

The fees for Milwaukee deck building permits vary depending on the size and type of the deck. The fees can range from $35 to $500. It’s best to contact the Milwaukee Building Inspection Division to get an accurate estimate of the fees.

Milwaukee deck building inspections

Milwaukee requires inspections at different stages of the deck-building process. The inspections ensure that the deck is constructed safely and meets all the building codes and regulations. The inspections typically include:

Footing inspection
Framing inspection
Final inspection

Common issues with Milwaukee deck building permits

One common issue with Milwaukee deck building permits is that some property owners try to bypass the permit process to save time and money. However, this can result in penalties, fines, and safety hazards. Another issue is that some property owners may not follow the regulations and requirements, resulting in unsafe and non-compliant decks.

Advantages of obtaining a Milwaukee deck building permit

Obtaining a deck building permit in Milwaukee has several advantages, including:

Ensuring safety and compliance with building codes and regulations
Protecting against property damage and liability
Adding value to your property
Avoiding penalties, fines, and legal issues

Conclusion

Milwaukee requires property owners who plan to build a deck to obtain a deck-building permit. This permit ensures that the deck is constructed safely and meets all the building codes and zoning laws of the city. It’s important to follow the regulations and requirements to ensure compliance and avoid penalties and legal issues.

Frequently asked questions

What is the penalty for building a deck without a permit in Milwaukee?

The penalty for building a deck without a permit in Milwaukee can vary, but it can result in fines and legal issues. It’s best to obtain a permit before building to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with regulations.

How long does it take to obtain a deck building permit in Milwaukee?

The time it takes to obtain a deck building permit in Milwaukee can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the workload of the Building Inspection Division. It’s best to contact them to get an estimate of the timeline.

Do I need to hire a licensed contractor to obtain a deck building permit in Milwaukee?

No, you don’t need to hire a licensed contractor to obtain a deck building permit in Milwaukee. However, it’s recommended to hire a professional deck builder who has experience and knowledge of the regulations and requirements.

Can I apply for a deck building permit online in Milwaukee?

Yes, you can apply for a deck building permit online in Milwaukee. You can visit the Milwaukee Development Center website to submit your application.

Do I need to obtain a permit if I am replacing an existing deck in Milwaukee?

Yes, you need to obtain a permit if you are replacing a deck in Milwaukee. This ensures that the new deck meets all the current building codes and regulations.