Upload these forms with your Building Portal application (unless they don't apply to your project):
- Owner Declaration Form (PDF) – most homeowners
- Schedule 1 Designer Form (PDF) – if a designer is involved
Decks
Follow these steps to plan your project, apply for a permit and book inspections.
Tip: print this page and use it as a checklist.
On this page:
1. Plan your project
Before you start, review these steps and gather key details about your deck:
- size and location
- materials you’ll use
- any features like a roof, stairs or railings
2. Check if you need a permit
You need a building permit if your deck:
- is more than 2 feet (24 inches) above ground
- has a roof or cover
You don’t need a permit if your deck is under 2 feet high and is not covered
Even if you don’t need a permit, you must still follow zoning rules.
3. Confirm zoning rules – optional
You don’t have to confirm zoning before you apply, but it may help if your project is complex or your property has unique zoning.
To check zoning in advance, contact zoning@waterloo.ca or 519-747-8752
Be ready to share:
- distance from property lines (setbacks)
- size, height and placement
- roof information – if applicable
4. Prepare your drawings
All drawings must be to scale and dated.
Include:
- site plan – where the deck sits on your lot, with distances to property lines
- plan view (top-down) – size, post and beam layout, joist size and spacing, stair location, deck board information
- elevation view (side) – deck height, railing height, footing size and depth, connection details
- details – railing attachments, ledger board connection, stair measurements
Extra drawings may be needed for:
- glass, vinyl, aluminum, or composite railings – must include an engineer's stamp
- helical piles (only if they support a roof) – must include an engineer's stamp
5. Prepare your forms
Complete the forms that apply to your project.
Most homeowners complete the Owner Declaration Form. If you hire a designer, they must also complete the Schedule 1 Designer Form.
Contact us if you’re not sure which forms you need.
Forms you need if you’re applying online
Forms you need if you’re applying in person
Bring these completed forms to the service counter on the 2nd floor of City Hall:
- Permit Application Form (PDF)
- Owner Declaration Form (PDF) – most homeowners
- Schedule 1 Designer Form (PDF) – if a designer is involved
6. Check fees
Deck permit fee: $118 – HST does not apply.
Pay when you apply:
- online – credit card only
- in person – cash, debit or cheque payable to City of Waterloo
7. Apply online
Submit your application through the building permit portal.
Upload your drawings and forms.
8. Wait for review
The typical time to review an application is 10 business days.
We may ask for more information before approval.
9. Get and display your permit
Your permit package will be available on the portal. We’ll email you instructions on how to access it.
Print the full package and keep it visible at the work site.
10. Book inspections
You'll need 3 inspections:
- footing inspection – before pouring concrete
- framing inspection – after framing is complete
- final inspection – once the deck is finished
Book an inspection through the portal (find it on the left menu):
- the earliest you can book an inspection is the next business day
- you'll need your permit number