Do You Need a Deck Permit in Seattle?
Sometimes
You need a construction permit for a deck more than 18 inches above the ground or any roof deck. Most decks on neighborhood residential lots get a same-day Subject-to-Field-Inspection (STFI) permit.
Seattle Deck Permits at a Glance
- Permits, last 12 months
- 88
- Issued, last 30 days
- 9
- Median application to issue
- 7 days
- Median declared job value
- $20,000
- Issuing office
- Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI)
- Rule last checked
- October 30, 2026
Permits Issued per Month
Counts are approximate: we match permit types and descriptions to deck work. Data from Seattle Building Permits, refreshed October 30, 2026.
What Seattle's Rules Say
- Permit if more than 18 in above ground or a roof deck (SRC R105.2).
- Most decks qualify for an over-the-counter STFI permit.
- Decks over 36 in count toward lot coverage.
Seattle Deck Permit Fees
We have not verified Seattle's fee for this work from an official fee schedule yet, so we don't quote one. The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) sets the fee when you apply.
Busiest Areas for Deck Permits
| ZIP code | Permits (12 mo) |
|---|---|
| 98121 | 10 |
| 98115 | 8 |
| 98112 | 7 |
| 98136 | 6 |
| 98103 | 6 |
| 98144 | 5 |
How to Get a Deck Permit in Seattle
- Confirm the rule for your exact job on the official page cited above. Size, height, structure and location (historic district, floodplain) can change the answer.
- Choose who applies. Many permits here must be pulled by a licensed contractor; ask any contractor to name the license they will use.
- Apply with the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) through the official department website.
- Schedule inspections as the permit requires, and keep the final approval with your house records.
Recent Seattle Deck Permits
| Issued | Address | Work |
|---|---|---|
| 2026-10-26 | 6801 48Th Ave Ne | Construct repairs to water-damaged attached deck for one-family dwelling subject to field inspection (STFI). |
| 2026-10-23 | 4501 35Th Ave S | Replace decking and railing of entry porch and stairs of a one-family dwelling subject to field inspection (STFI) |
| 2026-10-15 | 1708 E Highland Dr | Construct site improvements and repairs to existing multifamily building at exterior deck per plan. |
| 2026-10-15 | 7051 20Th Ave Ne | Remove existing and construct wood stairs and porch at east side of existing residence Subject to Field Inspection (STFI |
| 2026-10-14 | 5023 29Th Ave S | Construct repairs to existing one family dwelling at exterior deck per plan. |
| 2026-10-14 | 907 N 83Rd St | Construct exterior deck to replace and expand existing deck for one-family dwelling subject to field inspection [STFI]. |
| 2026-10-14 | 8435 20Th Ave Sw | Construct deck alterations to existing one-family dwelling subject-to-field inspection (STFI). |
| 2026-10-09 | 2543 Perkins Ln W | Construct new decks for existing one family dwelling per plan. |
| 2026-10-02 | 2801 31St Ave W | Construct deck at west side of existing one family residence subject to field inspection (STFI). |
| 2026-09-28 | 5623 49Th Ave Sw | Construct exterior entry deck and stairs to replace and expand existing for one-family dwelling subject to field inspect |
Addresses and work descriptions as published by the city. Owner names and phone numbers are removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a deck permit in Seattle?
Sometimes. You need a construction permit for a deck more than 18 inches above the ground or any roof deck. Most decks on neighborhood residential lots get a same-day Subject-to-Field-Inspection (STFI) permit.
How many deck permits does Seattle issue?
Seattle issued 88 permits matching deck work between October 30, 2025 and October 30, 2026, about 7 a month. The busiest month was Jun 2026 with 18.
How much does a deck permit cost in Seattle?
We have not yet verified Seattle's fee for this work from an official fee schedule, so we do not quote one. The fee is set by the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) when you apply.
How long does it take to get a deck permit in Seattle?
Based on the city's records, the median time from application to issue for these permits was 7 days over the last 12 months.
Who issues deck permits in Seattle?
The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI).
Related Permit Guides
- Seattle Roofing Permits
- Seattle HVAC Permits
- Seattle Fence Permits
- Chicago Deck Permits
- Austin Deck Permits
- Deck Permits by City
- When a Deck Needs a Permit: Height and Size Rules by City
Sources
Official sources checked on . Rules change; confirm with the department before you start work.
- Seattle SDCI Tip 312: Decks, Fences and Arbors (linked above) (web.seattle.gov)