Before you get quotes
Madison wants a site plan for any deck over three feet high, plus construction drawings with post locations, beam sizes and joist size and spacing. Lower decks can reach the lot line in most cases, while decks three feet and up must meet the zoning district setbacks. Sun Prairie and Fitchburg each have their own thresholds, so the parcel’s municipality decides.
- Zoning district and setbacks
- Site plan for taller decks
- Drawings at a common scale
- Inspection timing
Sources: Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, SPS 325 Appendix B · City of Madison Development Services Center, Decks · City of Middleton, Building Inspections & Building Permits · City of Sun Prairie Building Inspection, Decks, Gazebos & Pergolas · City of Fitchburg Building Inspection, Permit Requirements · City of Verona Building Inspection, 2026 Fee Schedule · City of Verona, Building Inspection. Checked November 9, 2026. Confirm current requirements with your building inspector.
Near Madison
Price check
See the Madison deck cost guide for 2026 published price ranges and permit fees from Madison and Verona.
Related
Questions about deck permits & plans
Are you the deck builder?
An independent builder you hire directly. This is a Madison-area referral site, so we pass your request along; we do not build, price or guarantee anything.
Which construction methods does Sun Prairie accept?
SPS 321.225, the state deck appendixes B and C, or the DCA6 guide, per the city’s deck page.
How far ahead do I book a Middleton inspection?
At least 24 hours, through the Permit Portal or by phone.
Is a permit needed?
In Madison, yes: the city says you need a permit to build a deck. Fitchburg requires one for decks 24 inches or more above grade, Sun Prairie wants a drawing and site plan, and Verona lists a $300 deck permit. Each Dane County community sets its own rules.