Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $350 Standard residential deck permit fee includes 3 inspections.
Fee Method Flat rate
Apply Online Apply at City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services →

What's Required in Columbus

  • Building permit required for all decks except those < 200 sq ft, < 30" high, and detached
  • Zoning approval required for all decks exceeding 169 square feet regardless of height
  • Guardrails (36" high) mandatory if deck surface is 30 inches or more above grade
  • Stair risers cannot exceed 8.25 inches; 4 or more risers require a handrail
  • Footings must be at least 32 inches deep for frost protection in Franklin County
  • Two sets of site, footing, and framing plans required for review

How to Get a Deck Permit in Columbus

1

Step 1: Size & Zoning Verification

Check if your deck exceeds 169 sq ft for zoning or 200 sq ft for building codes.

2

Step 2: Plan Drafting

Create a site plan, footing plan, and framing details to scale.

3

Step 3: Submit to BZS

Upload PDF plans to the Citizen Access Portal.

4

Step 4: Permit Payment

Pay the $350 deck fee and $150–$300 zoning fee if applicable.

5

Step 5: Inspections

Schedule footing, framing/decking, and final inspections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, unless it is detached, under 30 inches high, and smaller than 200 sq ft.
$350 flat fee for residential decks.
Footings must reach a minimum frost depth of 32 inches.