How to build a deck in Michigan?
The building department will want at least two copies of the plans. Make sure to have multiple copies of the plot plan or mortgage survey marked with the exact location of the deck. This includes all offsets from property lines and underground utilities. If a subdivision association approval is relevant to the project, a copy of the subdivision's approval should be attached to the building permit application. It is always a good idea to call 800-MISS-DIG before digging the post holes.
Typically, it takes the building department around one week to review deck plans. Once the plans have been approved the post holes may be dug and the post hole inspection should be scheduled. Because post holes need to be at least 42 inches deep in Michigan, we put pieces of plywood over the holes to guard against any person, child or animal falling in and hurting themselves.
After the post hole inspection, we are usually free to build the rest of the deck. The only time that we ever have to have the framing inspected before putting the decking down is when the deck is low enough to the ground that seeing how the posts and beams are connected would be difficult or impossible for the inspector with the decking on. If we are building a deck that is particularly low to the ground and the inspector doesn't ask us to perform/schedule a rough framing inspection, we make sure to bring the low height to their attention and confirm that they did not over look it.
Scheduling inspections is usually pretty easy. Although Friday and Monday inspections are more difficult to get. If we ever plan to have an inspection on a Monday or Friday, we make sure to schedule it early. In addition, we often run into trouble with inspction scheduling on and around holidays. Make sure to confirm what days the inspector will be available around holidays. Years ago, we had to wait one and a half weeks for post hole inspection near the forth of July.
Typically, it takes the building department around one week to review deck plans. Once the plans have been approved the post holes may be dug and the post hole inspection should be scheduled. Because post holes need to be at least 42 inches deep in Michigan, we put pieces of plywood over the holes to guard against any person, child or animal falling in and hurting themselves.
After the post hole inspection, we are usually free to build the rest of the deck. The only time that we ever have to have the framing inspected before putting the decking down is when the deck is low enough to the ground that seeing how the posts and beams are connected would be difficult or impossible for the inspector with the decking on. If we are building a deck that is particularly low to the ground and the inspector doesn't ask us to perform/schedule a rough framing inspection, we make sure to bring the low height to their attention and confirm that they did not over look it.
Scheduling inspections is usually pretty easy. Although Friday and Monday inspections are more difficult to get. If we ever plan to have an inspection on a Monday or Friday, we make sure to schedule it early. In addition, we often run into trouble with inspction scheduling on and around holidays. Make sure to confirm what days the inspector will be available around holidays. Years ago, we had to wait one and a half weeks for post hole inspection near the forth of July.