Decks and Porches

Thinking about adding a deck, porch, or patio to your home? Before you start, check with the Building Department to see if you need a permit.


Deck Day at RONA+ Niagara Falls

Planning a new deck, porch, or outdoor structure this season? Join us for Deck Day to get the information you need before you build.

City Building Services staff will be on-site at RONA+ Niagara Falls to answer questions and help you understand the requirements for building safely and in compliance with municipal regulations.

Event details:
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Time: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Location: RONA+ Niagara Falls, 7959 McLeod Road

What you’ll learn:

  • When a building permit is required
  • How to apply for a permit
  • Required inspections and timelines
  • Applicable zoning by-laws and building code requirements
  • What drawings and documentation are needed for approval

Whether you're just starting to plan or ready to apply, this drop-in event is a convenient way to speak directly with City staff and avoid common delays.

The RONA+ team will also be hosting a charitable BBQ on-site, with proceeds supporting the Niagara Health Foundation.

Do you need a building permit?

Decks: Yes, for a deck, you must have a permit before starting construction if the deck/porch is:

  • Greater than 10 m2 (108 ft2)
  • Greater than 60 cm (23 5/8 inches) high from grade measured from the top of the adjacent walking surface, 
  • Covered or has a roof, or
  • Connected to a house or other structure

How to apply for a building permit

Follow these steps to apply for a building permit for a deck or porch.

Utility locates - Ontario One Call

If you are planning to dig, you must submit a utility locate request. This applies to any digging project, whether you're putting in a pool, putting up a fence, or planting a tree.

  • Ontario One Call is a free service that helps locate underground utilities like gas lines, water pipes, and electrical cables. Contacting them before you dig is not just smart—it’s the law in Ontario.
  • You or the contractor doing the work can submit a locate request online at ontarioonecall.ca. Submit the request at least five business days before you plan to dig.

Building permit inspections

You are responsible for requesting all required inspections to finalize your building permit. Please refer to your permit for the required inspections.

Required inspections for decks are:

  1. Footing/excavation (helical pile) – prior to pouring of concrete
  2. Framing
  3. Final

Once the permit is issued, all required inspections can be booked through the CityView Portal or by contacting 905-356-7521 ext. 4330, or pbd@niagarafalls.ca.

Contact Us

City of Niagara Falls
Planning and Building

4343 Morrison Street
P.O. Box 1023
Niagara Falls, Ontario L2E 6Z9
Canada
905-356-7521 ext. 4330
pbd@niagarafalls.ca