Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $100–$400 Based on project value plus a standard plan review fee.
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at Planning & Community Development - Building Permits and Inspections →

What's Required in Virginia Beach

  • Building permit required for any deck more than 16.5 inches above grade.
  • Structural plans showing footing depth and framing details.
  • Footings must reach a minimum depth of 12 inches (frost line).
  • Handrails required for all decks with more than 3 steps.
  • Guardrails must be at least 36 inches high for raised decks.
  • Must comply with CBPA rules for impervious cover limits.

When a Deck Needs a Permit in Virginia Beach

Whether a deck needs a building permit in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach, the line is a deck floor more than 16.5 inches above grade — lower than the 30-inch rule many cities use. 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 Virginia Beach

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 Virginia Beach. 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 Planning & Community Development - Building Permits and Inspections before starting; the requirements above outline what Virginia Beach expects.

How to Get a Deck Permit in Virginia Beach

1

Step 1: Site Survey

Identify property lines and easements before designing.

2

Step 2: Submit Plans

Upload structural drawings to the Accela portal.

3

Step 3: Environmental Review

Checked for compliance with Chesapeake Bay preservation rules.

4

Step 4: Pay Fees

Submit valuation-based fees to activate the permit.

5

Step 5: Inspections

Requires footing, framing, and final structural inspections.

Frequently Asked Questions

If under 16.5 inches high and detached, it may be exempt.
Virginia Beach requires a 12-inch frost depth.
Yes, if you own and occupy the home.
Often yes, depending on size and height. Virginia Beach typically exempts low ground-level decks but requires a permit once a deck is raised (more than 16.5 inches above grade) or attached to the house. Confirm setback and footing rules with the Planning & Community Development - Building Permits and Inspections.
Usually not — swapping decking boards or railing on the same structure is generally considered maintenance in Virginia Beach. Replacing the framing (joists, beams, footings), rebuilding, or enlarging the deck typically does require a permit. Check the scope with the Planning & Community Development - Building Permits and Inspections.