PORCHES (FRONT & REAR) - RESIDENTIAL 1 & 2 FAMILY ONLY
KEYWORD
QUESTION
ANSWER
Permit  What work can I do to my porch without a permit?
  1. Replace wooden steps
  2. Railing repairs
  3. Railing replacement (as long as the replacement is the same style as the original)
  4. Porch decking (floorboards)
  5. Trim work
What information is needed to secure a permit for porch repairs? Construction drawing showing the following:
  1. Footer size & footer depth
  2. Size of support columns
  3. Size of headers (if applicable)
  4. Size & span of floor joists
  5. Decking (3/4 inch tongue & groove - minimum requirement)
  6. Railings for porch & steps
Size What size can the porch be? Front porch - No change in size from the existing porch. If change is going to be made, then a variance may be needed by the Zoning board and approval by the Architectural Review Board (Supply a rendering & plot plan)

Rear Porch - No increase in size from the existing porch. If change is going to be made, a Zoning variance may be needed. (Supply a plot plan)

Appearance Can I change the appearance of the porch? Front porch - If a change in appearance from the existing porch is going to be made, then approval may be needed by the Architectural Review Board. (Supply a rendering)

Rear Porch (Corner property only) - If a change in appearance from the existing porch is going to be made, then a variance may be needed by the Architectural Review Board. (Supply a rendering)

Inspection When do I need my porch project inspected:
  1. Verify posthole/ footer depth prior to filling holes.
  2. Before rough framing is covered up
  3. Call for a final inspection upon completion
Painting- Do I have to paint my porch? Front Porch - Yes (Paint or stain to match)
Rear Porch - No (If Wolmanized® wood is used) 
I live on a corner property, do I have to paint my porch? Front Porch - Yes (Paint or stain to match)
Rear Porch - Yes (Paint or stain to match)

See the Lakewood Heritage Advisory Board's publication on
Front Porches and Porch Pride


Frequently Asked Questions
City of Lakewood Divison of Housing & Building