Unless you are a professional contractor by trade, you should not attempt to build a deck on your roof. Improper design or implementation during any step of the process could result in serious injury, catastrophic damage to your home, or even death.

Do you need a permit for a deck in NYC?

Permits For a Deck in NYC You must get permits to build a deck. You will need to file with the NYC Department Of Buildings (DOB) to build a deck. If your building is Landmark Status you will also need to file with the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). You will need a NY Registered Architect for this project.

What occupancy is a roof deck?

Roof Decks with Roof Coverings In general, occupied roof space with structure above is used for assembly occupancy (A-2) and will be considered a story per the definition of a story (see above).

Are wooden decks legal in NYC?

Furthermore, NYC code in particular, requires that a deck or porch may only project up to eight feet beyond the face of the building. There must be at least three feet between the deck or porch and the property line on the sides. All decks and porches must have a railing at least 42 inches high.

Is a rooftop deck considered a story?

It is acceptable to consider a roof deck as a story if the height of the deck does not exceed 2-3 stories (depending on the construction type and sprinkler use). Overhead structures can be approved on a podium level roof decks over parking structure, for example.

Does a rooftop deck count as square footage?

BOMA (Building Owners and Managers Association) now includes balconies and roof decks in rentable square footage. Balconies, Covered Galleries and Finished Rooftop Terraces are now included in the “Tenant Area”, previously known as the Useable Square Footage.

What qualifies as a deck?

A deck is a flat, usually roofless platform adjoining a house. Decks are typically made of lumber and are elevated from the ground. It can include spaces for BBQing, dining as well as seating. Decks are generally enclosed by a railing.

How high can deck be without planning?

30cm
Putting up decking, or other raised platforms, in your garden is permitted development, not needing an application for planning permission, providing: The decking is no more than 30cm above the ground.

Does a roof deck count as a story?

How close to property line can you build deck?

At least 3 ft. from side or rear property line. No closer to front property line than front wall of main building. Under 6 ft.

What is the difference between rooftop and roof deck?

A roof deck is a rooftop patio or garden area. These outdoor, constructed spaces are located on the top of some homes, but are known mainly for being connected to the rooftop level apartments known as penthouses. A roof deck is typically is a rooftop patio or garden area. The deck itself is often made of wood or vinyl.

What is a rooftop deck called?

A roof deck is a rooftop patio or garden area. These outdoor, constructed spaces are located on the top of some homes, but are known mainly for being connected to the rooftop level apartments known as penthouses. Many of these roof gardens are attractively landscaped as well as finished with fencing for safety reasons.

How much roof decking can you have in NYC?

Roof decking in combustible materials such as wood or rubber can only cover 20% of the roof. You cannot have a wood roof deck over 20% of the roof area in NYC. Concrete Pavers are an example of noncombustible roof decks.

Is New York City cracking down on roof decks?

Back in April of 2017, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) decided to crack down on roof decks, roof terraces and recreational spaces on the roofs of buildings. Developers and building owners were up in arms.

How many people can fit on a roof deck?

The new rooftop terrace or deck is for “Passive Recreation” and is accessory to a “principal use” within the building. The roof deck occupant load cannot exceed 74 people. Adding the roof deck would not require an increase in the number of exits based on occupancy calculations.

How do I file a roof deck with the DOB?

A roof deck would be filed with the DOB either through an Alteration Type 1 (Alt 1) or Alteration Type 2 (Alt 2). An Alteration Type 1 requires a new Certificate Of Occupancy whereas a simpler application of Alteration Type 2 does not. Both require a New York Registered Architect or Professional Engineer to file with the DOB.