Do I need a permit for a low Vancouver deck under 24 inches?

Yes, you need a building permit for any deck over 600mm (approximately 24 inches or 2 feet) above grade in all Metro Vancouver municipalities. Since you mentioned "under 24 inches," your deck would likely fall below this threshold and not require a permit, but the exact measurement matters.

The 600mm rule is strictly enforced across Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Coquitlam, and all other Metro Vancouver municipalities. This measurement is taken from the highest point of the deck surface to the lowest adjacent grade — so if your yard slopes, measure from the deck to the lowest ground point beside it, not the highest.

Ground-level floating decks under 600mm are typically permit-exempt, but they must be truly floating (not attached to the house via a ledger board) and cannot exceed the height threshold at any point. Even a few inches over 600mm triggers the permit requirement. These floating decks usually sit on deck blocks, concrete pads, or gravel pads rather than deep footings.

However, attachment to your house changes everything. If you're planning to attach the deck to your house with a ledger board — even a low deck — some municipalities may require a permit because the ledger connection affects your home's structural envelope and weather barrier. The City of Vancouver, for example, has specific requirements about any structural attachment to existing buildings.

Before you build, measure carefully and call your local building department to confirm. Vancouver residents can call 311 or visit vancouver.ca/permits. Each municipality has slightly different interpretations, and it's better to spend 10 minutes on a phone call than deal with a stop-work order or forced removal later.

Even permit-exempt decks must follow basic safety standards — proper drainage away from your house, adequate support for the intended loads, and safe construction practices. In Metro Vancouver's wet climate, ensure good ventilation underneath any deck and use appropriate materials (pressure-treated lumber minimum, or cedar/composite for longevity).

Need help finding a deck contractor to ensure your project meets all requirements? Vancouver Deck Contractors can match you with experienced local professionals who understand Metro Vancouver's specific regulations and climate challenges.