Backyard decks and porches

Deck Contractor Brookhaven

A deck permit here needs scaled drawings and easement approval. Get a plan that's ready for both before the first post goes in.

Call (470) 427-9259
  • Scaled permit drawings
  • Easement checks
  • Decks and screened porches
Newly built backyard deck with railing and stairs attached to a home

Permit-Ready Deck Plans

Contractor marking ledger placement and joist layout on a house wall
Framing details go on the permit drawings

A deck permit here asks for more than a sketch. The city's Community Development permit checklist for decks and porches calls for a site plan, scaled construction drawings with elevations and framing, and DeKalb County easement approval.

That easement step matters if a county easement runs through your backyard. The builder checks where it runs before settling the footprint, so the deck doesn't have to be redesigned after you've signed.

For layout and material choices, see our overview of new deck builds.

Getting the Paperwork Right

Site Plan

Shows where the deck sits on the lot and how far it is from property lines.

Scaled Drawings

Elevations plus floor and roof framing, drawn to scale.

Easement Sign-Off

County easement approval is routed after the city accepts the permit.

Engineered Parts

Stamped drawings are required for any engineered building components.

Deck Builders in Brookhaven

A good contractor asks about these early, because each one changes the permit drawings.

Stairs to the Yard

Stair location affects framing, landings and where footings go.

A Roof or Screen

Covered and screened space adds weight and usually changes the drawings.

Lighting

Post and stair lights are easier to wire during framing.

Material

Composite needs different joist spacing than wood, so decide before drawings are made.

Services Available Here

  • New deck building
  • Deck replacement
  • Deck repair
  • Composite decking
  • Screened porches
  • Deck railing
  • Deck staining and sealing

Permit and Planning Questions

Do you work in Brookhaven?

Yes. Call (470) 427-9259.

Why does a deck permit need easement approval?

The city's deck permit checklist includes DeKalb County easement approval, so county easements on the lot are reviewed before work starts.

What drawings are needed?

A site plan, scaled construction drawings with elevations and framing, and stamped drawings for any engineered components.

Can I add a screened porch instead?

Yes. The builder can plan a deck, a screened porch, or both.

Start With the Right Plan

Talk to a builder about your deck and the drawings it needs.

Call (470) 427-9259