Deck / Patio Permit Requirements in Lincoln, ND
Small city near Bismarck in Burleigh County. Some permits handled by Burleigh County Building/Planning/Zoning. North Dakota adopted the 2024 IRC effective January 1, 2026.
When you DON'T need a permit
Freestanding decks not more than 30 inches above grade are exempt from a building permit per 2024 IRC R105.2.
Source: City of Lincoln / 2024 IRC
When you DO need a permit
Attached decks require a building permit even when under 30 inches above grade.
Estimated fee: $87 – $280
Typical timeline: About 1 week
Source: City of Lincoln / 2024 IRC
Decks more than 30 inches above grade require a building permit.
Estimated fee: $122 – $402
Typical timeline: About 2 weeks
Source: City of Lincoln / 2024 IRC
Covered decks or those over 300 sq ft require a building permit.
Estimated fee: $157 – $489
Typical timeline: About 2 weeks
Source: City of Lincoln / 2024 IRC
Deck / Patio Permit Costs: Lincoln vs. Nearby
Lincoln comes in on the low side for North Dakota. You're looking at $87 – $489 here, compared to the state average of $144 – $461.
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Lincoln | $87 – $489 |
| Fargo | $125 – $400 |
| Fargo | $175 – $575 |
| Fargo | $225 – $700 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation.
Zoning Considerations
Decks may be subject to zoning setback and lot coverage requirements. Check with your local planning department before building near property lines.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Deck / Patio projects in Lincoln, ND range from $87 – $280. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Deck / Patio projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit in Lincoln can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Typical approval time for Deck / Patio permits in Lincoln is About 1 week. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
Learn More About Deck / Patio Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Deck / Patio Guide →