Permit for Covered Deck

[Gus]

I want to build a 10X10 wooden deck in my yard, cover it, and put a hot tub on it. Do I need a permit for that? Also, does it have to be 20 feet from the boundry? Since there's brush between my neighbor and myself, and we don't get along, I can only guess where the property line is. The plans that came with the house are incorrect.

[Hotzcatz]

Technically, yes, you do need a permit. As well as a licensed plumber and electrician.

It has to be built within your property setbacks, that exact number will differ from one property to the next as well as from the front/back of the property and the sides.

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Kurt Wilson

[kalakoa]

Per the Almighty Code, no permits "should" be necessary for a self-contained portable hot tub plugged in to an existing outlet (possibly via extension cord) on a deck shorter than 30" (and less than either 120sf or 600sf per zoning) that's not inside the setbacks.

However, "they" are free to interpret the Code as they see fit, and to demand that the work pass their inspection after your licensed contractor has obtained all relevant permits. Ask their permission at your peril ... and always get their opinion in writing.

Setbacks vary per lot size/dimension/zoning. There's a handy brochure; when doubt, hire a surveyor.

[Rob Tucker]

Kalakoa is correct. No permit needed for decks less than 30" in height. You will need to determine your setback and avoid that space. A covering, or roof, would need a permit unless it was just one of those pop up roofs people use for shade at the beach. More concerning is your neighbor you don't get along with. Building Department has a policy of primarily responding to complaints. They get a complaint, they eventually check it out.

[kalakoa]

covering, or roof, would need a permit

Cite? If a "utility shed" (of less than the requisite square footage allowed by zoning) is exempt, why would a similar structure without walls not be exempt?

Provided that it's far enough away from another structure, doesn't infringe on setbacks, and has neither plumbing nor electrical...

policy of primarily responding to complaints

Fees and fines are a critical part of our economy; maybe better if you file the complaint yourself, just to be sure.

[Gus]

Thanks for your comments. I found an accurate survey which shows exactly where the setback is. There’s no electrical or plumbing on the deck, and my next door neighbor spends most of his day on his excavator doing who knows what so I doubt he is interested in having a building inspector anywhere close. I will check whether it needs a roof. Maybe I’ll call it a gazebo.