How to Build a Deck in HOA Community
Some housing developments are a part of a Home Owners Associations (HOA) that requires you to receive permission from them before building a deck. Most people know if their house is under the authority of an Association. If there is any question, the Building Inspections Department will let you know before you submit your permit. There are over 23 million homes across America that are managed under HOAs. If you are planning on building a deck onto a townhouse, chances are you will need to contact a HOA.
Each Association works in its own way, imposing different levels of restrictions in an attempt to maintain consistency throughout the development. For instance, some Associations may only allow certain types of materials for decks or require a certain style of guardrails to match neighboring decks. If your deck meets the requirements, they will usually draft a short letter granting permission to build the project. You should include this letter with your application to the building department.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Permits for Building a Deck: Why You Need One and How to Get It
Many homeowners are surprised when they are told they need to get a permit in order to build a deck. It may seem like a hassle, but it’s well worth the small investment of time and money to ensure your deck is built to code standards and in compliance with local regulations
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Installing a patio is a big project. Discover our guide on Decks.com to learn how to build a DIY patio with brick or stone pavers from start to finish.
Engineered & Premade Porch Roof Trusses
Using engineered porch roof trusses can take a lot of the hassle out of building your porch roof. Learn more about premade porch roof trusses at Decks.com!
Deck Roof
We discuss some of the challenges of building a porch roof over an existing deck.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
How to Build a Deck in HOA Community
Some housing developments are a part of a Home Owners Associations (HOA) that requires you to receive permission from them before building a deck. Most people know if their house is under the authority of an Association. If there is any question, the Building Inspections Department will let you know before you submit your permit. There are over 23 million homes across America that are managed under HOAs. If you are planning on building a deck onto a townhouse, chances are you will need to contact a HOA.
Each Association works in its own way, imposing different levels of restrictions in an attempt to maintain consistency throughout the development. For instance, some Associations may only allow certain types of materials for decks or require a certain style of guardrails to match neighboring decks. If your deck meets the requirements, they will usually draft a short letter granting permission to build the project. You should include this letter with your application to the building department.
IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
Building A Deck Over A Septic Tank
Building a deck on or near a septic tank is not the best idea and can result in a damaged or punctured tank. Learn more about building near a septic tank at Decks.com.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Installing a patio is a big project. Discover our guide on Decks.com to learn how to build a DIY patio with brick or stone pavers from start to finish.
How to Build a Patio With Stone or Brick Pavers
Installing a patio is a big project. Discover our guide on Decks.com to learn how to build a DIY patio with brick or stone pavers from start to finish.
Options for Adding Electric Fixtures To Your Porch
Adding electric fixtures to a porch can allow you to enjoy your outdoor space in new ways. Learn more about adding electric fixtures to your porch at Decks.com
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights