Deck Permits in New Jersey: What Homeowners Need to Know

Clean lines, cooler boards—this Trex Transcend deck in South Jersey was built to beat the summer heat while adding lasting style to the backyard.

Building a new deck in New Jersey? You’ll need more than just tools and materials—you’ll need a permit. At C-JAM Construction, we walk clients through this process every week, and here’s what you should expect if you're planning a deck project in the Garden State.

Do I Need a Permit for My Deck?

Yes, all new deck builds in New Jersey require a permit. But before you can apply for a construction permit, you must first obtain zoning approval from your local building department. This requires submitting a plot plan or site survey of your property. On that survey, you’ll need to clearly mark the footprint of the proposed deck, including the distance from all property lines. Each town enforces specific setback requirements, and zoning approval ensures your deck is positioned legally within those limits before the construction permit process begins.

Who Handles the Paperwork?

At C-JAM Construction, we handle all the drawings and permit applications for our clients. We fill out our contractor information, draw the deck plans, and sign off as the responsible party for the construction. The homeowner is responsible for dropping off the packet and paying the permit fees.

Your permit package will usually include:

• A construction permit application

• A building subcode application

• Deck drawings showing dimensions, materials, and framing details

For a full breakdown of what to expect, check out our post on what happens during a deck build.

How Long Does It Take?

Once submitted, you’re at the mercy of the town’s construction office. Some towns process permits within 10–14 days, others may take longer. Most deck designs follow standard code-compliant practices, which helps avoid complications.

What Causes Delays?

Common issues that delay approvals include:

• Missing plot plans or surveys

• Incomplete contractor info

• Unpaid taxes or municipal fees

What Happens If I Skip the Permit?

Plenty of people try to avoid permits—and it can cost them thousands to tens of thousands in fines. Inspectors vary in how strict they are, but if you cut corners or get reported, the town can come down hard. At C-JAM, we never skip permits. Period.

What Inspections Will Be Done?

You’ll typically need:

• Footing inspection – Verifies the depth and width of holes

• Framing inspection – Checks joists, beams, bracing, and hardware before the boards go on

• Final inspection – Confirms rail height, stair codes, deck boards, and general code compliance

We never take final payment until final inspection is passed. Learn more about our framing practices in our post on why deck framing matters.

Pro Tip for Homeowners

Start early. If you want to build in June, get your survey and documents in order by March or April. New surveys can cost up to $3,000 and take 30–60 days to complete—so plan ahead.