porch/deck and railings

[Mustang1966]

How high must a porch or deck be to require railings? thanks

 

[Jeff]

Out here on the west coast, guardrails are required on any decks over 30 inches above adjacent grade. Not sure about North Carolina. I recommend you call or visit your local building department.

 

[Shubham]

You likely need railings, and you definitely need a permit.

The Short Answer​

https://library.municode.com/nc/new...s?nodeId=COOR_CH11BUBURE_ARTIINGE_S11-3REBUCO If your deck is 30 inches or higher off the ground, North Carolina building code requires railings. They need to be at least 36 inches tall and run along the full perimeter within 36 inches of the edge.


https://library.municode.com/nc/new..._ordinances?nodeId=COOR_CH11BUBURE_ARTIIIBUPE Even if your deck is lower than 30 inches, you still need a building permit for new deck construction – regardless of height.

Here's What You Need to Do​

Step 1: Measure Your Deck Height

• Measure from the ground to the top of your deck surface
• https://library.municode.com/nc/new...s?nodeId=COOR_CH11BUBURE_ARTIINGE_S11-3REBUCO
  If it's 30 inches or more, railings are mandatory
• If it's under 30 inches, railings aren't required but still recommended

Step 2: Get Your Building Permit

• https://nhcgov.com/FAQ.aspx?QID=141 Contact New Hanover County Building Safety Department and submit deck plans with railing details
• You'll need this permit even for a simple deck replacement

Step 3: Plan for Inspections

• https://nhcgov.com/FAQ.aspx?QID=141 Schedule required inspections as work progresses
• Don't start work until you have your approved permit

The Railing Requirements (If Your Deck is ≥30 inches)​

https://library.municode.com/nc/new..._ordinances?nodeId=COOR_CH11BUBURE_ARTIIIBUPE
Height: Minimum 36 inches from deck surface to top of railing
Coverage: Must run the full perimeter within 36 inches of the deck edge
Installation: Must meet specific code requirements for spacing and strength

Your Next Call​

https://www.nhcgov.com/202/Building-Safety New Hanover County Building Safety Department

• Phone: (910) 798-7308
• Location: 230 Government Center Dr., Suite 170, Wilmington, NC 28403
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Email: permits@nhcgov.com

Ask them for:

• Current permit fees
• Deck plan requirements
• Inspection timeline
• Any special requirements for your area

Important Notes​

• Don't start work without a permit – even if railings aren't required
• Professional installation recommended for safety and code compliance
• https://www.nhcgov.com/1100/Policies-Ordinances Additional requirements may apply in historic districts
• https://www.nhcgov.com/1100/Policies-Ordinances All requirements should be verified with the building department before starting

The building department can give you exact fees and walk you through the specific requirements for your deck project. They're your best resource for making sure everything is done safely and legally.

 

[High Voltage]

People could use that post as a template for other permitting issues.

But this is something people definitely need to know, especially if they live in a modular.

 

[Seven Out]

So 30" is the standard height? The fact that they specify that amount while saying it doesn't really matter is indicative of that. Just seems like unnecessary verbiage.