Short Answer: Yes, Almost Always
In Green Bay and Brown County, virtually every new deck construction project requires a building permit. This includes new decks, deck replacements (if you're changing the structure), covered decks, and screened porches. The only exception is very small, ground-level platforms that don't attach to the house — and even those are worth checking with the building department.
What the Permit Process Looks Like
The City of Green Bay Building Inspection Department requires: a completed application, a site plan showing the deck location on your property, construction drawings with structural details, and the permit fee (typically $75–$200 depending on project value).
Processing time is usually 1–2 weeks. Once approved, you'll receive a permit card to display at the job site. Inspections happen at key stages — typically footings and final.
Common Permit Requirements in Green Bay
Setback requirements: Your deck must be a certain distance from property lines. In most Green Bay residential zones, this is 5 feet from the side and rear property lines, but it varies by zoning district.
Height restrictions: Decks over 30 inches above grade require railings (42 inches minimum height in Wisconsin). Elevated decks may have additional structural requirements.
Ledger attachment: If your deck attaches to the house, the connection must meet current code requirements. This is one of the most inspected elements — and one of the most common failure points on DIY and poorly-built decks.
Why Permits Matter
Some homeowners see permits as an unnecessary hassle. Here's why they matter: permits ensure your deck is structurally safe, they protect your home's resale value (unpermitted work is a red flag for buyers), and they ensure insurance coverage (some policies exclude unpermitted structures).
We Handle the Entire Process
At Tech Five, permits are part of our standard scope on every project. We prepare the plans, submit the application, pay the fees (included in your project cost), and coordinate all inspections. You don't have to visit the building department or figure out code requirements — that's our job.