Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $50–$150 Based on average residential deck permit costs.
Fee Method Flat fee
Apply Online Apply at Shelby County Department of Construction Code Enforcement →

What's Required in Memphis

  • Building permit required for decks attached to the house.
  • Required if deck is more than 30 inches above grade.
  • Mandatory if deck is larger than 200 square feet.
  • Structural plans showing footings and joist spacing are required.
  • Guardrails must be at least 36 inches high for raised decks.
  • Post-hole depth must meet local frost line requirements.

When a Deck Needs a Permit in Memphis

Whether a deck needs a building permit in Memphis usually comes down to how high and how big it is. Low, ground-level platforms are often exempt, while raised decks need a permit — in Memphis, the line is a deck floor more than 30 inches above grade (where guardrails and footings come into play). Attached decks almost always require a permit because they tie into the house’s structure, and even a freestanding deck usually needs one once it passes the size or height cutoff. Check the requirements above before you build, and note that zoning setbacks from property lines apply regardless.

Do You Need a Permit to Repair or Replace a Deck in Memphis

It depends on how much you’re changing. Swapping worn decking boards or railing on the same layout is usually treated as maintenance and often doesn’t require a permit in Memphis. But replacing the structural framing (joists, beams, posts, or footings), rebuilding the deck, enlarging it, or changing its height generally does — at that point it’s regulated like new construction. When in doubt, describe the scope to the Shelby County Department of Construction Code Enforcement before starting; the requirements above outline what Memphis expects.

How to Get a Deck Permit in Memphis

1

Step 1: Design Review

Create structural drawings for building code compliance.

2

Step 2: Site Plan

Draft a site plan showing the deck relative to property lines.

3

Step 3: Online Filing

Submit through the Memphis Permit Administration portal.

4

Step 4: Review Process

Staff review plans for structural and zoning compliance.

5

Step 5: Final Inspection

Schedule an inspection once construction is finished.

Frequently Asked Questions

If it is detached, under 200 sq ft, and less than 30 inches high.
Building permits generally take about two weeks to be issued.
Yes, permits for covered decks typically incur higher fees.
Often yes, depending on size and height. Memphis typically exempts low ground-level decks but requires a permit once a deck is raised (more than 30 inches above grade) or attached to the house. Confirm setback and footing rules with the Shelby County Department of Construction Code Enforcement.
Usually not — swapping decking boards or railing on the same structure is generally considered maintenance in Memphis. Replacing the framing (joists, beams, footings), rebuilding, or enlarging the deck typically does require a permit. Check the scope with the Shelby County Department of Construction Code Enforcement.