How to write a deck / patio construction permit narrative
Decks fail plan review on connections: the ledger, the footings, and the guardrails. A narrative that names your footing size, ledger fastening, joist spans, and guard height tells the reviewer you’ve built to the deck provisions of the code before they even open the drawings.
What your narrative needs to include
- Deck size and height above grade
- Footing type, size, and depth
- Ledger attachment method and flashing (or freestanding)
- Framing sizes and spans (beams, joists, posts)
- Guardrail height and baluster spacing if over 30 inches
- Stair geometry and handrail
- Decking material and fasteners
Example: a complete deck / patio construction narrative
Project Description
This project involves construction of a 12-by-16-foot attached wood deck at the rear of the residence, approximately 4 feet above grade, with one stair to grade. The deck is attached to the dwelling with a flashed and lag-bolted ledger and supported on concrete pier footings.
Scope of Work
- Excavate and pour four 12-inch diameter concrete pier footings to 18 inches below grade with post bases
- Attach 2x10 pressure-treated ledger to rim joist with 1/2-inch lag screws at code spacing, flashed with metal ledger flashing
- Frame with 4x4 PT posts, doubled 2x10 beams, and 2x8 joists at 16 inches on center with joist hangers
- Install composite decking with hidden fasteners
- Install 36-inch guardrail with balusters spaced under 4 inches
- Build stair with 7.75-inch max risers, 10-inch min treads, and graspable handrail
Materials & Methods
Pressure-treated Douglas fir framing, hot-dip galvanized hardware and joist hangers, composite decking, concrete pier footings.
Work Not Included
Electrical work. Patio cover or roof structure. Landscape work.
Contractor Statement
The deck will be constructed per the currently adopted residential code deck provisions, with footing inspection requested before pour and framing inspection before decking.
Mistakes that get deck / patio construction permits kicked back
- No ledger attachment detail — the number one deck rejection
- Missing footing depth (frost depth varies by jurisdiction)
- No guardrail spec on decks over 30 inches
- Stairs without riser/tread dimensions
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