Deck Permit Fees & Costs in Des Moines, Iowa
Everything you need to apply for a deck permit in Des Moines, Iowa — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $225 – $578
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 9 inspections required
Limited Data Available
Some information on this page has not been fully verified. We're working to improve data quality. Always verify with Des Moines directly.
Estimated Total Fees
$225 – $578
Range based on typical residential solar PV system. Actual fees depend on project valuation and system size.
| Fee Component | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Deck Permit Fee[1][2] Fees based on deck square footage. Des Moines charges moderate fees reflecting substantial frost depth requirements. | $150 – $350 | ✓ |
| Plan Review Fee[3][4] Plan review fee is typically 50-65% of the permit fee. | $75 – $228 | ✓ |
| Estimated Total | $225 – $578 |
Fees shown as ranges. Always verify the exact amount with Des Moines before submission. Additional fees may apply for expedited review or resubmittals.
Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet
Get a personalized Deck permit packet for Des Moines, Iowa — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Contractor Information and Insurance, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $75–$350 estimated total
- Step-by-step City of Des Moines Permit and Development Center portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (9 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
Free to preview · Pro to download
Required Documents
Des Moines requires the following documents for this permit application.
Construction Plans per Iowa Building Code
Detailed construction plans showing deck dimensions, materials, post locations, and footing depth of 42 inches minimum below finished grade per Iowa Building Code frost line requirement
Property Survey and Site Plan
Survey showing property lines, deck location, setbacks from property boundaries, utility line locations, and drainage considerations
Proof of Property Ownership
Current deed or title document confirming property ownership
Foundation and Footing Specifications
Specifications showing post footings extend 42 inches minimum below finished grade per Iowa frost line, footing diameter, material, bearing capacity, and freeze-thaw protection
Guard Rail Specifications per Iowa Code
Plans showing guard rails with 36-inch minimum height per Iowa Building Code, balusters spaced no more than 4 inches, and secure connection details
Contractor Information and Insurance
Licensed contractor information and proof of liability insurance (if work will be performed by licensed contractor)
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through City of Des Moines Permit and Development Center.
- 1
Submit Permit Application
Submit completed permit application with construction plans and site survey to City of Des Moines Permit and Development Center
You'll need: Construction Plans per Iowa Building Code, Property Survey and Site Plan
- 2
Ownership and Contractor Verification
Verify property ownership and confirm contractor licenses and insurance if applicable
You'll need: Proof of Property Ownership, Contractor Information and Insurance
- 3
Code Compliance Plan Review
Review of plans for Iowa Building Code compliance including 42-inch frost line requirement, structural adequacy, freeze-thaw protection, and 36-inch guard rail height
You'll need: Construction Plans per Iowa Building Code, Foundation and Footing Specifications, Guard Rail Specifications per Iowa Code
- 4
Permit Issuance
Approved permit is issued and construction may begin per approved plans
- 5
Foundation and Framing Inspection
Inspector verifies footings reach 42-inch minimum depth, posts are properly set, and framing meets Iowa Building Code specifications
- 6
Final Inspection and Approval
Final inspection confirms 36-inch guard rail height, 4-inch baluster spacing, all connections secure, and deck is safe for use
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a deck permit in Des Moines?
- Yes. Des Moines requires a deck permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does deck permit approval take in Des Moines?
- Processing times in Des Moines vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 6 steps. Contact Des Moines Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a deck permit in Des Moines?
- Des Moines requires 6 documents including Construction Plans per Iowa Building Code, Property Survey and Site Plan, Proof of Property Ownership, Foundation and Footing Specifications, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a deck permit in Des Moines?
- Building without a permit in Des Moines can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my deck permit submission in Des Moines?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Des Moines's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a deck permit cost in Des Moines?
- Deck permit fees in Des Moines typically range from $225 to $578, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Des Moines.
Related Permits
Other permits in Des Moines
Ready to apply? Build your submission packet.
Answer a few project questions and get a deck permit packet for Des Moines, Iowa — with every document, form, and fee organized for submission.
Build My Permit PacketFree to preview · Pro to download