Deck Permit in Tacoma, Washington
By Mario Bailey Last verified 2026-06-17 · 2 official sources
Quick answer
In Tacoma a freestanding deck that does not exceed 200 square feet and is not more than 30 inches above grade is exempt from a building permit. Any deck over 200 square feet, over 30 inches above grade, or attached to the dwelling requires a permit from Planning and Development Services. Apply online through the Tacoma Accela permit portal.
Permit required?
Sometimes, depending on the project.
Typical threshold: freestanding decks not exceeding 200 sq ft and not more than 30 inches above grade are exempt; decks over 200 sq ft, over 30 inches above grade, or attached to the dwelling require a permit.
When a permit is usually needed
Before building a deck over 200 square feet, over 30 inches above grade, or attached to the house in Tacoma
Permit cost and what affects it
Fees are set by the locality and are not published here. See the official fee schedule or contact the office for current amounts.
Permit costs generally depend on the project valuation, the scope of work, and the inspections required. Ask the office how the fee is calculated for your specific project.
Where to apply
City of Tacoma Planning and Development Services
- 747 Market Street Third Floor, Tacoma, WA 98402
- Phone: (253) 591-5030
- Email: Permits@tacoma.gov
Frequently asked questions
- Do you need a deck permit in Tacoma?
- In Tacoma a freestanding deck that does not exceed 200 square feet and is not more than 30 inches above grade is exempt from a building permit. Any deck over 200 square feet, over 30 inches above grade, or attached to the dwelling requires a permit from Planning and Development Services. Apply online through the Tacoma Accela permit portal. The typical threshold is freestanding decks not exceeding 200 sq ft and not more than 30 inches above grade are exempt; decks over 200 sq ft, over 30 inches above grade, or attached to the dwelling require a permit. Always confirm with the office before starting.
- How much does a deck permit cost in Tacoma?
- Fees are set by Tacoma and are not published here. Contact the office for current amounts.
- How long does a deck permit take in Tacoma?
- Processing time for a deck permit in Tacoma varies by workload and project scope. Contact the City of Tacoma Planning and Development Services for a current estimate.
- Where do you apply for a deck permit in Tacoma?
- You can apply through the Tacoma permit portal or contact the City of Tacoma Planning and Development Services directly. The links are listed on this page.
Official sources
Last verified: 2026-06-17 Report an error on this page
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