How to Get a Philadelphia EZ Deck Permit [2024]

Many homeowners are unaware that they need a permit to build a deck. Even though it may seem like a chore, ensuring your deck is constructed according to local guidelines and standards is worth investing time and money in.

If you construct a deck without a permit, you may run into issues. For instance, paying a fine, demolishing the brand-new deck, damages to the building, or, worst-case scenario, having someone get hurt due to bad construction. Additionally, when selling your property, you may experience legal difficulties.

In Philadelphia, you can construct a deck using an EZ permit. For homeowners and developers, Philadelphia EZ Permits can be confusing. If you plan to build a deck for your home,  Matrix Company Solutions Corp. will work with you to get an EZ deck permit and ensure that you have a wonderful deck that complies with all permit requirements.

If you want to learn more about the Philadelphia EZ deck permit, keep reading.

What is an EZ Deck Permit?

An EZ Permit is a category of building, electrical, and plumbing permits offered by the City of Philadelphia. You can get this permit without submitting architectural plans. Therefore, it is simpler to get than a typical permit. However, to use this permit, you need to follow conditions and construction requirements defined by the City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I). If you go outside the requirements, you must submit plans to the city stamped by an architect or professional engineer; this could be time-consuming and costly.

You can obtain an EZ permit for specific construction and renovation projects. Adding a new deck to an existing one-family dwelling in Philadelphia is one of these projects. As mentioned above, sticking to the requirements for using an EZ permit is mandatory. Some of these requirements for adding a new deck are the maximum size, the distance of supporting columns from property lines, and the maximum height of a deck from footings.

Requirements for Building a Deck Using an EZ Deck Permit in Philadelphia

A Philadelphia EZ deck permit is typically used to build an elevated deck behind an existing one family dwelling. When building a deck using a Philadelphia EZ deck permit, the following requirements must be met:

1. The deck should attach to an existing one-family dwelling
2. The deck must be in the backyard not in the front or side yard.
3. Do not build the deck above the first floor.
4. The maximum size of the deck should be 160 sq ft. Installing intermediate posts can increase the size to 216 sq ft.
5. The deck must remain at least 3 feet away from a common driveway or the rear property boundary line.
6. The distance between each support column and the property lines must be at least 1 foot 6 inches.
7. No matter how a garage is used, deck supports should not block access for vehicles to the garage.
8. The distance between the top of the footing and the underside of the beam must not exceed 14 feet in height.
9. Do not build any solid walls that enclose the area under the deck.
10. The deck should be elevated and the clearance area below the deck should be 6 feet at least.
11. There should not be a wall or roof above the deck.
12. Use only the existing width opening to install a door.
13. If  making a new or wider opening in the rear wall, obtain a separate permit for that.
14. The building line should not be crossed by decks attached to buildings on corner properties.
15. Do not place a spa or hot tub on the deck.
16. Finally, the kind of deck that is attached to the building, is not permitted to have stairs leading to grade. Only decks placed on detached or semi detached single-family homes are allowed to have these stairs.

How to Get an EZ Deck Permit in Philadelphia?

The process of applying for an EZ deck permit in Philadelphia is very straightforward. You can use eCLIPSE to apply for this permit online or apply in person at the Permit and License Center.

To apply online, you must first log in to your eCLIPSE account, upload all required documents, and pay the filing fee (If you don’t know how to work with eCLIPSE, look here). Also, you should link your license or registration to your online account if you apply as a licensed professional or contractor. Then the review process of your application will start. Before approving a permit, the contractor’s identity and involvement with the project must be confirmed. They will notify you to pay the balance if your application is approved. Otherwise, you will receive an email outlining what is missing in your application. Once you have received approval and completed the work, request an inspection via eCLIPSE or call (215) 255-4040. Upon satisfactory completion of all necessary inspections, they will give you a certificate of approval.

If  you are going to apply in person, you should bring a completed application, required documents, and payment to the Permit and License Center. If you are working with a contractor, the contractor must submit the application or verify involvement with the project by a signed statement on the contractor’s letterhead. Then the review of your application will start. Once approved and the work is complete, you need to contact your local inspection office to schedule an inspection. After completing all required inspections, you will receive a certificate of approval.

Requirements for Obtaining an EZ Deck Permit in Philadelphia?

You need a permit application and a contractor to get an EZ deck permit in Philadelphia. You must include the scope of the work and the owner’s information in the permit application. Also, you should submit a copy of the settlement sheet or deed if the property has recently been sold. Further, if you apply as a tenant, include a copy of the executed lease agreement.

Except for one- or two-family homes, you need to hire a licensed Philadelphia contractor. In that case, a registered PA Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) who holds a Philadelphia Commercial Activity License; or an owner who resides in the building may do the work.

The contractor must hold a valid license, pay all city of Philadelphia taxes on time, and maintain current insurance on file with L&I. Matrix Company Solutions Corp. is a certified contractor with 25 years of experience that can help you get an EZ deck permit and build a deck for your home in Philadelphia.

How Long Will it Take to Get an EZ Deck Permit?

If you apply online, it will typically take three to five business days to get your EZ deck permit.  If you apply in person, you can get the approval and the permit on the same day.  Remember, getting approval could take substantially longer, up to two months, if you deviate from the conditions and construction requirements of the EZ deck permit standards.

Philadelphia EZ Deck Permits Made Easy!

The process of constructing a deck in Philadelphia is made easy using an EZ deck permit. It is fast and inexpensive compared to a typical permit. However, you need to pay close attention to the EZ deck permit standard conditions and construction requirements. Also, you must ensure that the additional load of the deck does not damage the existing building structure. Here is where a good contractor is helpful. Matrix Company Solutions Corp. will walk you through each step of obtaining an EZ deck permit and constructing your ideal deck that is safe and functional in the Philadelphia area.