Decks and Porches

When do I need a building permit?

In general, a building permit is needed for decks and porches regardless of size.

However, uncovered decks, less than 0.6 m (24”) above grade, do not need a building permit, however you must still follow Kenora's Zoning By-law.

Covered decks and porches always require a building permit.

Guards and railings

Guards are needed for any deck or platform 610 mm (24”) from grade or higher to prevent falls.  Wood guards must conform to Supplementary Standard SB-7 of the Ontario Building Code.

• The maximum size for openings in the guard is 100 mm (4”). 
• Climbing obstacles, ornate or horizontal components, are not allowed between 140mm and 900 mm (5-1/2” and 36”) above the walking surface.
• There are rules for the strength of the guard or railing.
• Aluminum, steel or glass guards need to be designed by a professional engineer.

City of Kenora Zoning and Building By-laws

The City of Kenora Zoning By-law 101-2015 has provisions about the size, height, location, and use of the structure.

• The new building must follow the zoning provisions about how much of the lot is covered, how far it is from the property lines, and its height.
• If you have questions about zoning, please contact the Planning Department at planning@kenora.ca.

The Building By-law 42-2024 includes rules for construction, demolition, change of use and inspections. The Building By-law includes the permit fee schedule.

How to apply for a building permit

You can apply online using Cloudpermit.

• Each separate structure needs a separate application, fee and permit.
• Each application for a deck or porch must include:
  • The site plan
  • Detailed construction drawings
  • Schedule 1; if the drawings were not completed by an Architect or Engineer, the homeowner or designer must take responsibility for the design.

Standard drawing requirements

A site plan should have the following information:

• North arrow
• Scale
• Legal description, (lot and plan numbers)
• Lot dimensions
• Setbacks to all property lines for the existing dwelling and the proposed building or structure
• Easement location(s)
• Street name(s)
• Information for all existing buildings and structure(s) such as use, size and location

Construction drawings will include as a minimum:

• A floor plan
• Four elevations
• At least one cross section

The construction drawings should have the following information:

• Size and height dimensions
• Concrete pier sizes, (depth and spacing), Concrete slab information, (size, thickness and reinforcement details)
• Size and spacing of studs, beams and posts
• Anchoring and fastening details
• Roof framing details, (trusses or rafter size and spacing)
• Location and size of all door and window openings
• Materials used

Pre-Engineered truss drawings must be provided with an application for permit, or prior to the framing inspection.

Review the standard sample drawings for requirements. Please note you must prepare your own drawings. The sample drawings are for reference purposes only.

Additional drawings and details may be required.

What to do when the building permit has been issued

Once you receive the building permit, please read the approved plans and documents carefully before starting work on the project. Pay special attention to any revisions (red marks) on the permit documents.

• The construction must follow the approved plans.
• The Building Department must be notified of any changes made before or during construction.
• The building permit must be posted on the property in a conspicuous location.
• Inspections by the Building Department are required during construction.

Required inspections

Inspections are required during construction to make sure all work is in line with the approved plans. It is the responsibility of the property owner or authorized agent to request inspections.  Inspections are requested through Cloudpermit. 

• Inspections needed are listed on the building permit.
• Some key inspections include:
  • Footings inspection
  • Foundation inspection
  • Framing inspection
  • Final inspection
• Approved permit documents must be kept on site and available to the building inspector.

Failure to schedule inspections will result in not being allowed to occupy or use the structure and may also result in uncovering the work.