Permit Required?
Sometimes Required
Typical Fee Range
$250–$1,000
Required for all decks over 30 inches high. Projects involving expansions trigger neighborhood notice.
Fee Method
Valuation-based
What's Required in San Francisco
- Building Permit required for all decks over 30 inches above natural grade
- Planning Department review mandatory for any deck over 3 feet (36 inches) high
- Projects that expand the footprint or exterior features require a Planning Approval letter
- Guardrails (min 42 inches high) required if deck surface is more than 30 inches above grade
- Firewalls may be required if the deck is within 3–5 feet of a property line
- Neighborhood notification (10-day notice) is required for most decks in required rear yards
How to Get a Deck Permit in San Francisco
1
Step 1: Check Natural Grade
Measure your deck height from the natural ground to see if it exceeds 30 inches.
2
Step 2: File Project Application (PRJ)
Submit a PRJ to SF Planning if the deck is over 3 feet high or in a rear yard.
3
Step 3: Neighborhood Notice
Await the 10-day or 30-day public notice period if required for your location.
4
Step 4: OTC Review
Bring your Planning Approval to DBI for an Over-the-Counter building permit.
5
Step 5: Construction Inspections
Schedule footing, framing, and final structural inspections through DBI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if the deck is taller than 30 inches above grade or involves structural changes.
Permit fees start around $250 but can reach $1,000+ if Planning review and public notice are required.
Standard OTC permits take 1–3 days; projects needing neighborhood notice take 6–10 weeks.