Building codes were made to help protect the homeowner, a home purchaser, and any visitors from getting hurt. Deck railings are bound by building codes as well, including the railing's height, the distance between balusters, and other details.

In Loudon County, Virginia, we find our first deck railing code example. The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code must be complied with for any building build in the county. This building code is available for free on the internet and offers many different codes for you to peruse. This building code details the rules for building, including and requirements that are structural, plumbing, mechanical issues, fire codes, and any deck regulations that they may have. This building code will give you guidance on following the law in Virginia. A review of your plans and permits by The Department of Building and Development will let you know if you are complying with the code to ensure that there are no problems further down the road.

There are different building codes all around the country, so it is important to check with your local area's building department to find the building codes for your area.

You will want to check into the zoning requirement for the area where you live in addition to the building codes. You will also want to get the requirements from the health department. A building permit is a necessity in most areas of the country, too. Some building codes will only allow decks that are a single level and some codes will dictate the size of the joist overhangs. Some building codes will also dictate the additions of hot tubs, roofs, screened porches, or gazebos, as well. You need to determine what the building codes are for your area to make sure that you do not waste your time or money.

You may find that the building codes in your area will cause design problems for your deck. If your deck railing has to be a certain height, then you may find that your view is obstructed. The bad this is that this is the law and if you break the law, then you will have to pay the consequences, including fines and court visits. If you really have an issue with the building code, then you will have to find a way to make it work for you-instead of against you. The codes are to keep you safe, but that doesn't mean that you cannot make it more workable for you by choosing different materials or a different design. You only have to be willing to put in the extra time, effort, and research that is may take to get the job done right.