What is the Largest Deck Without a Permit in Winnipeg?

When summer rolls around in Winnipeg, all you want to do is relax and spend time outside. What better way to do so than with a new deck? However, before you add one to your home, you should know if you need a permit. The answer comes down to the size and height of your deck.

Generally, smaller structures don’t need a permit at all. That said, there are limits. If your deck is bigger than these limits, you’ll have to get a permit from the City of Winnipeg.

Today, we’ll get into how large you can build without a permit, what rules still apply and when it makes sense to get a permit anyway.

What is the Largest Deck You Can Build Without a Permit in Winnipeg?

When building a wood or composite deck in Winnipeg, you have to meet both of these conditions to not require permit:

• Total area is 36 square feet 

• Height is 2 feet (600mm) or less above ground level

If your deck passes either of these limits, you will need a building permit. Whether the deck is attached to your house or freestanding, the same rules apply.

Structures below these limits are instead classified as “platforms” or “landings” not decks. In these cases, there’s no paperwork, fees or city involvement.

For context, 36 square feet is roughly a 6-foot by 6-foot area. That’s not a lot of space. Sure, you might be able to fit a small seating area, landing outside a backdoor or a base for a BBQ station, but you won’t get much more than that.

What are the Rules for Building a Deck without a Permit?

Even if you don’t need a permit from the city, your deck still needs to follow a couple of rules. Keep the following in mind:

Zoning Setbacks Still Apply

Your deck has to respect property line setbacks whether a permit is needed or not. In Winnipeg, these rules are:

• 25 feet from the rear property line

• 4 feet from the side property lines

• Decks are not permitted in the front yard

If the deck you plan to build stretches beyond these limits, you may have to apply for a zoning variance regardless of if you’re building a deck or small platform.

Height Restrictions

If any part of your deck is higher than 2 feet above grade, that section will require railings. This is the case even for permit-exempt platforms. Guardrails have to meet specific height and construction standards outlined in the City of Winnipeg’s Wood Deck Handbook. 

Utility Clearances

Besides what we already mentioned, you also have to consider:

• Overhead Power Lines: There must be minimum 3.5 metres (11 ft 6 in) clearance between the deck surface and overhead conductors.

• Hydro Meters: May need to be moved if the deck affects access or clearance, reach out to Manitoba Hydro directly for specific requirements.

Do I Still Need to Follow Building Codes Without a Permit?

Regardless of whether your deck requires a permit, you must comply with the National Building Code of Canada.

What does this mean? You must use proper construction methods, appropriate deck materials and safe structural practices. The permit process verifies code compliance through inspections, but not needing a permit doesn’t mean you don’t have to comply with the code itself.

Building a small platform yourself? Look into the City of Winnipeg’s deck construction guidelines. By following standards, you ensure your structure is safe and prevent problems when it’s time to sell down the line.

What Happens If I Build a Deck Without a Permit?

Building a deck without the required permit is not recommended. It can cause several problems down the road including:

Fines and Penalties

If the City of Winnipeg becomes aware of an unpermitted deck, they will send you a written notice requiring you to apply for a permit and arrange an inspection. You will receive a fine on top of regular permit fees. 

Inspection Challenges

A complex deck design might seem like a good idea at the time, but can cause problems at inspection time. Disassembly may be required to inspect the structural components. If the framing is already covered, inspectors may need to see the posts, beams and connections underneath. 

Potential Removal

What if your deck doesn’t pass the inspection and can’t be brought into compliance? In this case, you might have to modify or remove it altogether.

Issues When Selling

Unpermitted structures can make real estate transactions challenging. Buyers (and their lenders) may require proof that decks were built to code. An unpermitted deck can delay a sale, reduce your home’s value or require costly upgrades before closing day. 

When Should I Get a Permit Anyway?

Sometimes, your deck won’t require a permit, but there are times when the City of Winnipeg recommends applying for one anyways. These include:

Future Additions

Planning to add a roof, sunroom or enclosed structure on top of your deck? You may need a permit regardless of the deck’s size or height. The City of Winnipeg recommends applying for the entire project upfront so the deck supports the future structure. 

Hot Tubs

Considering putting a hot tub on your deck? This changes the structural requirements and you need a permit that ensures your deck can handle the additional weight.

Peace of Mind

A deck permit comes with inspections that verify your structure is safe and up to code. This prevents fines and provides documentation for future buyers.

Resale Value

Homes with improvements with permits are more attractive to buyers, A deck with closed permits is a sign of quality construction and takes away uncertainty during the sales process.

Getting a Permit is Always Smart

In Winnipeg, you are allowed to build a deck without a permit, given it’s 36 square feet or smaller and 2 feet or less above ground level. Anything larger or higher needs a building permit. At Neil & Nick’s Landscaping, we’re more than happy to build your deck and help you apply for a permit if necessary. Cutting corners to save time is expensive and not worth it.

Ready to build your dream deck? Contact us to book a consultation!