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What You Need to Know

Adding an outdoor deck is a popular way to expand your living space. In the RM of Reynolds, deck construction is regulated by the Zoning By-law No. 7/13 and the Manitoba Building Code to ensure structural safety and proper placement relative to property lines.

A deck is typically defined as an open, unenclosed platform. In the RM of Reynolds, the requirement for a permit depends on the deck’s height & its attachment to your home.

Do I need a Permit?

Maybe. A Building/Development Permit is required for your deck if it meets any of the following criteria:

  • Height: The deck is 2 feet (600 mm) or higher above the average ground level.
  • Attachment: The deck is attached to the principal dwelling, regardless of its height or size.
  • Future Intent: The deck will eventually support an enclosed structure with a roof (such as a sunroom or screened porch).
  • Size: Any detached deck that is 108 sq. ft. or larger.

Note: A small landing (typically 4′ x 4′) at an exterior door may be exempt if it meets specific safety and height criteria.

Who Issues it? The permit is issued by the Municipality. Please note that Manitoba Hydro issues any required electrical permits.

Bulk Requirements (Setbacks)

Even if a permit is not required for a low-level detached deck, it must still comply with the “Yard” requirements of your zone:

  • Setbacks: Decks higher than 2 feet must generally meet the same setback requirements as the main dwelling.

  • Projections: Open, unenclosed decks may be allowed to project into a required yard, but only up to a certain limit specified in the By-law.

Construction & Safety Standards

All decks must be built to the standards of the Manitoba Building Code:

  • Guardrails: Any deck more than 2 feet above the ground requires a guardrail (railing) for safety.

  • Foundations: * Low-level decks may often use surface pad foundations.

    • High-level decks (over 6 feet) or those intended to support a future roof typically require deep-foundation piles (concrete or screw piles) to resist frost heave.

  • Materials: Wood elements closer than 6 inches to the ground must be pressure-treated to resist decay.

Gather Required Documentation

Your permit application must include:

  • Site Plan: A drawing showing the property lines, the house, the proposed deck, and the distances to all boundaries.

  • Construction Plans: A top-down view and side elevation showing the size of the deck, post spacing, beam sizes, and joist dimensions.

  • Status of Title: A copy issued within the last 30 days.

Important Coordination

Hydro Clearances: If your deck is being built near a hydro meter or under overhead power lines, you must maintain minimum clearances (typically 11.5 feet from overhead wires).

Future Enclosures: If you plan to add a roof later, you must build the deck foundation to sunroom standards now. It is much more difficult to upgrade a foundation once the deck is finished.

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