Deck Building Requirements for the City of Barrie

As a home owner you are allowed to draw your own plans as long as there is enough detail to demonstrate that it will comply with the Ontario Building Code Requirement.  

Below are the Requirements that used to be available on the City of Barrie’s website

Building Permits Required

A building permit is required for any deck or porch that is attached to a building (regardless of area or height above grade).  Building permit applications can be submitted online in some areas.

A building permit is not required for an uncovered deck maximum 18.6 metres (about 200 square feet), not exceeding 0.6metres (about 23.6 inches) above grade and not attached to an existing structure.

Some of the more important requirements are listed below:

• When a deck is over 23 5/8 inches ( 600 mm ) above adjacent grade – guards are required.
• Deck blocks can be used if deck is under 24 inches in height.
• Maximum height of stair risers is 7 7/8 inches.  All stairs must be equal in height. ( within 1/8 inch )
• Maximum spacing of guards is 4 inches.  ( 100 mm )

Railing height for decks under 5 foot 11 inches is 35 inches.  Above is 42 inches.

City of Barrie Sample Deck Plan – This drawing used to be available on the City Website but has since been taken down.  You should check with your Local Building Department for their requirements before starting or planning any building project.  Depending on your location you might need further approvals from local Conservation Authorities.

Note:  Just because a product is sold by Home Depot, Lowes or Home Hardware does not necesarrily mean it is approved for use in Canada.  Railing support products and dryer vent kits are two known products that do not meet Ontario’s requirements.