Deck Construction Permits in Sterling Heights

Local Rule

City of Sterling Heights Building Division

Sterling Heights enforces the 2021 Michigan Residential Code, which keeps the statewide exemption unchanged: a deck avoids a building permit only if it is 200 square feet or less, no more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to the dwelling or any accessory structure, at least 36 inches from either, and does not serve a required exit door, so an attached deck needs a permit even when under 30 inches high. The city's own Building FAQ separately confirms a flat concrete patio poured directly on grade with no footings needs no permit at all. Estimated deck and patio permit fees in Sterling Heights run roughly $25 to $100, with review taking about two weeks.

Source · Verified September 2026

Sterling Heights Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Macomb County

Sterling Heights's own rule is shown above (Depends on project scope). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

Municipal (varies by township or city; the county does not i

Macomb County does not present itself as a countywide enforcing agency for general building permits; a parcel outside a city sits within a township, and building and trade permits are issued at that township level. Macomb County's own role is limited to overlays such as soil erosion, the county drain, county road right-of-way, and septic or well systems.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Sterling Heights with a confirmed deck construction rule:

FAQs

Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need

Popular tools and materials homeowners use for a deck construction project:

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