Decks, porches and roof decks in Montgomery County, MD
Every deck needs a DPS permit, built to the county's deck guidelines. Unenclosed porches and decks may project into setbacks only as far as § 59-4.1.7 allows.
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Montgomery County before you build.
The details
- See SetbackIQ's deck answer for footing, ledger and guard requirements from the DPS deck guidelines.High confidence
Check a project at your address
SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.
Common questions
- What are the rules for decks, porches and roof decks in Montgomery County?
- Every deck needs a DPS permit, built to the county's deck guidelines. Unenclosed porches and decks may project into setbacks only as far as § 59-4.1.7 allows.
Sources
- Montgomery County DPS, Guidelines for Building Residential Decks (rev. 04/15/2025). Checked 2026-10-19
A building permit is required for all decks regardless of the height above grade.
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.