Do I need a permit to build a deck in Des Moines, IA?

Yes. In Des Moines, any deck attached to your home or any freestanding deck more than 30 inches above finished grade requires a building permit. You will also need to submit a site plan showing the deck's location on your lot, its dimensions, and its distance from all property lines and easements. The site plan helps city reviewers confirm the deck meets setback requirements for your zoning district. For standard single-family zones, side and rear setbacks for accessory structures typically range from 3 to 7 feet. Decks that are lower than 30 inches may still need zoning review depending on lot coverage rules. Check with the City of Des Moines Development Services Department to confirm requirements for your specific parcel before starting construction.

How much does a building permit and site plan cost in Des Moines?

Permit fees in Des Moines are based on the estimated value of construction. For smaller residential projects like a shed or deck, permit fees typically range from around $50 to $150. Larger projects such as additions or ADUs can run several hundred dollars or more depending on the project valuation. Plan review fees may be charged separately for complex projects. The site plan itself is not a city fee, but rather a document you prepare and submit. Using a tool like Site Plan Creator costs a fraction of hiring a professional surveyor or drafter, making it a cost-effective option for most homeowners. Always confirm current fee schedules directly with the Des Moines Development Services Department, as fees are subject to change.

How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Des Moines?

For straightforward residential projects such as decks, sheds, and fences, plan review in Des Moines typically takes between 5 and 15 business days after a complete application is submitted. More complex projects, including home additions, new garages, and accessory dwelling units, can take 4 to 8 weeks or longer, especially if the project requires review by the Historic Preservation Commission or involves floodplain considerations. Incomplete applications are the single most common cause of delays. Submitting a clear, accurate site plan with all required dimensions, setbacks, easements, and a north arrow on your first attempt significantly reduces the chance of your application being returned for corrections.

What does Des Moines require on a residential site plan?

A residential site plan submitted to Des Moines Development Services should include: the overall lot dimensions and shape, a north arrow, a written and graphic scale, the location and dimensions of all existing structures on the property, the location and dimensions of the proposed project, distances from the proposed structure to all property lines (setbacks), any utility or drainage easements on the lot, the driveway and sidewalk locations, and the street name. For ADU projects, you must also show parking spaces for both units and the location of utility connections. The plan should be drawn to a standard scale such as 1 inch equals 20 feet. Handwritten plans are sometimes accepted for simple projects, but a clean digital plan reduces the risk of rejection.

Can I draw my own site plan in Des Moines, or do I need a licensed surveyor?

For most standard residential permits in Des Moines, including decks, sheds, fences, and pools, you are not required to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to prepare your site plan. Homeowners and contractors can draw their own site plans as long as the document is accurate, to scale, and includes all required information. However, if you do not have a recent survey of your property, you will need to know your lot dimensions, which can often be found on your property deed, county assessor records, or the Polk County GIS portal. For larger or more complex projects such as ADUs or additions, the city may require stamped drawings from a licensed professional. Site Plan Creator is a practical option for producing a clear, permit-ready site plan without professional drafting experience.

What are the typical setback requirements for residential properties in Des Moines?

Setbacks in Des Moines vary by zoning district, but in a standard single-family R1 zone, typical setbacks are: 20 to 25 feet from the front property line, 5 to 7 feet from each side property line for the primary structure, and 20 to 25 feet from the rear property line. Accessory structures like sheds and detached garages are usually permitted closer to the rear and side lines, often with a minimum of 3 to 5 feet. Corner lots have additional setback requirements on the street-facing side. Properties near alleys must also maintain setbacks from the alley right-of-way. Always verify the exact setbacks for your parcel through the Des Moines Zoning Ordinance or by contacting Development Services, since requirements differ across residential zones.

Where do I submit a site plan and permit application in Des Moines?

Des Moines accepts residential permit applications both online and in person. The online permitting portal, available through the City of Des Moines website, allows you to upload your site plan and supporting documents, pay fees, and track your application status without visiting city hall. In-person submissions can be made at the Development Services Department located at 602 Robert D. Ray Drive in downtown Des Moines. Online submission is generally recommended because it is faster, provides a digital record, and allows staff to communicate with you electronically if revisions are needed. For complex projects or if you have questions before submitting, calling Development Services at (515) 283-4200 can help you confirm exactly what documents are required.

What happens if I build without a permit in Des Moines?

Building without a required permit in Des Moines can result in serious consequences. The city may issue a stop-work order requiring all construction to halt immediately. You may be required to obtain a retroactive permit, which often involves a penalty fee that can be significantly higher than the original permit cost. In some cases, unpermitted work must be partially demolished or opened up so inspectors can verify code compliance. Unpermitted structures can also create problems when you sell your home, as buyers, lenders, and title companies routinely check permit records. Additionally, homeowner's insurance may deny claims related to unpermitted work. It is always faster and less expensive to pull the permit before you build rather than deal with enforcement actions after the fact.

Are ADUs allowed in Des Moines, and what site plan is required?

Yes, accessory dwelling units are permitted in most residential zoning districts in Des Moines following updates to the city's zoning code in recent years. ADUs can be attached to the primary home, detached in the backyard, or created through conversion of an existing structure such as a garage. To obtain an ADU permit, you must submit a detailed site plan showing the primary dwelling, the ADU footprint and dimensions, setbacks from all property lines, off-street parking for both units, and utility connection points. ADUs must comply with maximum size limits, setback requirements, and design standards that vary by zone. The review process for ADUs is more involved than for simpler projects, so plan for a longer review timeline and consider consulting with Development Services early in your planning process.

Does my Des Moines property being in a floodplain affect my permit or site plan?

Yes, significantly. Portions of Des Moines near the Des Moines River and Raccoon River corridors fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. If your property is in a floodplain, your site plan and permit application must include additional information such as the Base Flood Elevation and documentation showing that your proposed structure will meet elevation or floodproofing requirements. Construction in a floodplain may require a Floodplain Development Permit in addition to a standard building permit. You can check whether your property is in a flood zone using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov. Des Moines Development Services staff can also advise you on floodplain requirements specific to your parcel. Ignoring floodplain rules can result in permit denial and affect your flood insurance eligibility.

Site Plan Requirements in Des Moines, IA (Permit Guide)

By Site Plan Creator Team • June 17, 2026

Des Moines homeowners need a site plan for most residential building permits, from decks and sheds to ADUs and additions. This guide covers Des Moines permit triggers, setback rules, submission steps, and how Site Plan Creator can help you get approved faster.

Site plan requirements for residential properties in Des Moines, Iowa

Residential Site Plan Requirements in Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, and with that growth comes a steady stream of homeowners looking to add decks, build accessory dwelling units, install pools, or expand their living space. The City of Des Moines Development Services Department enforces a thorough permitting process to ensure that new construction and improvements meet the Iowa State Building Code and local zoning ordinances. Whether you live in a historic Beaverdale bungalow, a newer ranch home in the River Bend area, or a mid-century property near Drake University, understanding what a site plan is and when you need one is the first step toward a smooth permit experience.

What Is a Residential Site Plan and Why Does Des Moines Require One?

A residential site plan is a scaled, bird's-eye drawing of your property that shows the lot boundaries, existing structures, proposed improvements, setbacks from property lines, easements, driveways, and utilities. Des Moines requires site plans because city reviewers need to verify that your project complies with zoning rules before construction begins. A clear, accurate site plan helps the Development Services staff confirm that a new deck won't encroach on a utility easement, that a backyard shed meets rear-yard setback requirements, or that a proposed addition won't exceed the lot's allowable impervious surface coverage.

Without a compliant site plan, your permit application will be returned or placed on hold, adding weeks to your project timeline. Getting it right the first time saves money and frustration.

Residential Permit Triggers in Des Moines

The following projects almost always require a building permit in Des Moines, and most of them require a site plan as part of the application package:

Decks and porches: Any attached or detached deck more than 30 inches above grade requires a permit. Even ground-level decks may trigger zoning review.
Sheds and accessory structures: Sheds larger than 120 square feet require a permit. Smaller sheds may still need zoning approval depending on placement.
Swimming pools: In-ground and above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches require a permit and must meet fence/enclosure requirements.
Fences: Fences over 6 feet in height require a permit. Location relative to property lines and sight-triangle rules near intersections also apply.
Home additions: Any addition to a home's footprint requires a full building permit and site plan showing proposed and existing structures.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Des Moines updated its zoning code in recent years to allow ADUs in most residential zones. A detailed site plan is required showing the primary dwelling, the ADU, parking, and utility connections.
Driveways and impervious surfaces: New or expanded driveways may require a right-of-way permit and must comply with stormwater runoff rules.
Detached garages: New or expanded garages require a permit and site plan showing placement relative to property lines and alleys.

Local Zoning Quirks and Notable Considerations

Des Moines has several zoning considerations that set it apart from smaller Iowa cities:

Historic Districts: Des Moines has multiple locally designated historic districts, including portions of Sherman Hill and the Ingersoll Park neighborhood. Projects in these areas may require approval from the Historic Preservation Commission before a building permit is issued. Exterior changes are subject to additional design review.

Floodplain Regulations: Portions of Des Moines lie within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas, particularly near the Des Moines River and Raccoon River corridors. If your property is in a floodplain, your site plan must show the Base Flood Elevation, and your project may need to meet additional elevation or floodproofing requirements. You can check your property's flood zone status using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

Impervious Surface Limits: Des Moines enforces stormwater management rules that limit how much of a residential lot can be covered by hard surfaces. Adding a large driveway, patio, or structure may push you over the limit and require stormwater mitigation measures.

Alley Setbacks: Many older Des Moines neighborhoods have rear alleys. Structures built near an alley must maintain specific setbacks from the alley right-of-way, which differs from a standard rear-yard setback.

ADU Parking Requirements: Des Moines requires that ADU projects demonstrate adequate off-street parking for both the primary unit and the accessory unit, which must be shown clearly on your site plan.

Typical Setback Requirements in Des Moines

Setbacks in Des Moines vary by zoning district, but the following ranges are typical for standard single-family residential (R1) zones:

Front yard setback: 20 to 25 feet from the front property line
Side yard setback: 5 to 7 feet per side for the primary structure
Rear yard setback: 20 to 25 feet from the rear property line
Accessory structures (sheds, garages): Often 3 to 5 feet from side and rear property lines, and must be behind the rear building line of the primary structure
Corner lots: Additional setbacks apply to the street-facing side yard

Always verify setbacks for your specific parcel and zoning district through the City of Des Moines Development Services or by reviewing the official Des Moines Zoning Ordinance. Setbacks can differ significantly in R2, R3, and mixed-use zones.

The Des Moines Permit Submission Process

Step 1: Determine Your Zoning District

Before drawing your site plan, look up your property's zoning district using the City of Des Moines online GIS portal. Your zoning district determines setbacks, allowable uses, and maximum lot coverage.

Step 2: Prepare Your Site Plan

Your site plan should be drawn to a recognized scale (typically 1 inch = 20 feet or similar) and include: lot dimensions, north arrow, all existing structures with dimensions, the proposed project with dimensions, distances from all property lines, easements, driveways, and any utilities visible on the property. Tools like Site Plan Creator make it straightforward to produce a professional, permit-ready site plan without hiring a surveyor for every project.

Step 3: Assemble Your Application Package

In addition to your site plan, most Des Moines residential permits require: a completed permit application, construction drawings or plans (for structural work), energy compliance documentation (for additions), and applicable permit fees.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Des Moines accepts permit applications through its online permitting portal as well as in person at the Development Services office at 602 Robert D. Ray Drive. Online submission is generally faster and allows you to track your application status.

Step 5: Plan Review and Approval

For straightforward residential projects such as decks and sheds, plan review in Des Moines typically takes 5 to 15 business days. More complex projects, including additions, ADUs, and projects in historic districts, can take 4 to 8 weeks or longer if additional review boards are involved. Incomplete applications or missing site plan details are the most common cause of delays.

Common Reasons Permit Applications Get Rejected in Des Moines

Understanding why applications fail can save you significant time:

Missing or incorrect setback dimensions: The site plan does not clearly show distances from the proposed structure to all property lines.
No north arrow or scale bar: Reviewers need to verify dimensions and orientation.
Easements not shown: Utility or drainage easements on the property are not indicated, and the proposed structure may encroach on one.
Lot dimensions missing: The overall lot size and shape must be clearly drawn.
Inconsistent dimensions: The written dimensions on the plan do not match the drawn scale.
Floodplain issues not addressed: Projects in or near flood zones lack required elevation data.
Incomplete project description: The permit application does not match what is shown on the site plan.

Addressing these issues before you submit dramatically increases your chances of first-submission approval.

Start Your Des Moines Site Plan with Site Plan Creator

Site Plan Creator is built specifically for homeowners, contractors, and small builders who need a professional, permit-ready site plan without the cost or wait time of hiring a surveyor for every project. Our tool lets you enter your lot dimensions, place existing and proposed structures, add setback lines, label easements, and export a clean, scaled PDF that meets Des Moines Development Services requirements.

If you are planning a deck, shed, pool, ADU, or addition in Des Moines in 2026, start your site plan today at siteplancreator.com and move your project from idea to permit-ready in hours, not weeks. For additional guidance on Iowa building codes, you can also reference the Iowa State Building Code Bureau and the International Code Council for adopted residential code standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Des Moines, IA?: Yes. In Des Moines, any deck attached to your home or any freestanding deck more than 30 inches above finished grade requires a building permit. You will also need to submit a site plan showing the deck's location on your lot, its dimensions, and its distance from all property lines and easements. The site plan helps city reviewers confirm the deck meets setback requirements for your zoning district. For standard single-family zones, side and rear setbacks for accessory structures typically range from 3 to 7 feet. Decks that are lower than 30 inches may still need zoning review depending on lot coverage rules. Check with the City of Des Moines Development Services Department to confirm requirements for your specific parcel before starting construction.
How much does a building permit and site plan cost in Des Moines?: Permit fees in Des Moines are based on the estimated value of construction. For smaller residential projects like a shed or deck, permit fees typically range from around $50 to $150. Larger projects such as additions or ADUs can run several hundred dollars or more depending on the project valuation. Plan review fees may be charged separately for complex projects. The site plan itself is not a city fee, but rather a document you prepare and submit. Using a tool like Site Plan Creator costs a fraction of hiring a professional surveyor or drafter, making it a cost-effective option for most homeowners. Always confirm current fee schedules directly with the Des Moines Development Services Department, as fees are subject to change.
How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Des Moines?: For straightforward residential projects such as decks, sheds, and fences, plan review in Des Moines typically takes between 5 and 15 business days after a complete application is submitted. More complex projects, including home additions, new garages, and accessory dwelling units, can take 4 to 8 weeks or longer, especially if the project requires review by the Historic Preservation Commission or involves floodplain considerations. Incomplete applications are the single most common cause of delays. Submitting a clear, accurate site plan with all required dimensions, setbacks, easements, and a north arrow on your first attempt significantly reduces the chance of your application being returned for corrections.
What does Des Moines require on a residential site plan?: A residential site plan submitted to Des Moines Development Services should include: the overall lot dimensions and shape, a north arrow, a written and graphic scale, the location and dimensions of all existing structures on the property, the location and dimensions of the proposed project, distances from the proposed structure to all property lines (setbacks), any utility or drainage easements on the lot, the driveway and sidewalk locations, and the street name. For ADU projects, you must also show parking spaces for both units and the location of utility connections. The plan should be drawn to a standard scale such as 1 inch equals 20 feet. Handwritten plans are sometimes accepted for simple projects, but a clean digital plan reduces the risk of rejection.
Can I draw my own site plan in Des Moines, or do I need a licensed surveyor?: For most standard residential permits in Des Moines, including decks, sheds, fences, and pools, you are not required to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to prepare your site plan. Homeowners and contractors can draw their own site plans as long as the document is accurate, to scale, and includes all required information. However, if you do not have a recent survey of your property, you will need to know your lot dimensions, which can often be found on your property deed, county assessor records, or the Polk County GIS portal. For larger or more complex projects such as ADUs or additions, the city may require stamped drawings from a licensed professional. Site Plan Creator is a practical option for producing a clear, permit-ready site plan without professional drafting experience.
What are the typical setback requirements for residential properties in Des Moines?: Setbacks in Des Moines vary by zoning district, but in a standard single-family R1 zone, typical setbacks are: 20 to 25 feet from the front property line, 5 to 7 feet from each side property line for the primary structure, and 20 to 25 feet from the rear property line. Accessory structures like sheds and detached garages are usually permitted closer to the rear and side lines, often with a minimum of 3 to 5 feet. Corner lots have additional setback requirements on the street-facing side. Properties near alleys must also maintain setbacks from the alley right-of-way. Always verify the exact setbacks for your parcel through the Des Moines Zoning Ordinance or by contacting Development Services, since requirements differ across residential zones.
Where do I submit a site plan and permit application in Des Moines?: Des Moines accepts residential permit applications both online and in person. The online permitting portal, available through the City of Des Moines website, allows you to upload your site plan and supporting documents, pay fees, and track your application status without visiting city hall. In-person submissions can be made at the Development Services Department located at 602 Robert D. Ray Drive in downtown Des Moines. Online submission is generally recommended because it is faster, provides a digital record, and allows staff to communicate with you electronically if revisions are needed. For complex projects or if you have questions before submitting, calling Development Services at (515) 283-4200 can help you confirm exactly what documents are required.
What happens if I build without a permit in Des Moines?: Building without a required permit in Des Moines can result in serious consequences. The city may issue a stop-work order requiring all construction to halt immediately. You may be required to obtain a retroactive permit, which often involves a penalty fee that can be significantly higher than the original permit cost. In some cases, unpermitted work must be partially demolished or opened up so inspectors can verify code compliance. Unpermitted structures can also create problems when you sell your home, as buyers, lenders, and title companies routinely check permit records. Additionally, homeowner's insurance may deny claims related to unpermitted work. It is always faster and less expensive to pull the permit before you build rather than deal with enforcement actions after the fact.
Are ADUs allowed in Des Moines, and what site plan is required?: Yes, accessory dwelling units are permitted in most residential zoning districts in Des Moines following updates to the city's zoning code in recent years. ADUs can be attached to the primary home, detached in the backyard, or created through conversion of an existing structure such as a garage. To obtain an ADU permit, you must submit a detailed site plan showing the primary dwelling, the ADU footprint and dimensions, setbacks from all property lines, off-street parking for both units, and utility connection points. ADUs must comply with maximum size limits, setback requirements, and design standards that vary by zone. The review process for ADUs is more involved than for simpler projects, so plan for a longer review timeline and consider consulting with Development Services early in your planning process.
Does my Des Moines property being in a floodplain affect my permit or site plan?: Yes, significantly. Portions of Des Moines near the Des Moines River and Raccoon River corridors fall within FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. If your property is in a floodplain, your site plan and permit application must include additional information such as the Base Flood Elevation and documentation showing that your proposed structure will meet elevation or floodproofing requirements. Construction in a floodplain may require a Floodplain Development Permit in addition to a standard building permit. You can check whether your property is in a flood zone using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov. Des Moines Development Services staff can also advise you on floodplain requirements specific to your parcel. Ignoring floodplain rules can result in permit denial and affect your flood insurance eligibility.

How to Create a Site Plan in Des Moines

Look Up Your Zoning and Lot Info: Before drawing anything, identify your property's zoning district and lot dimensions using the Polk County Assessor's website or the City of Des Moines GIS portal. Your zoning district determines your setbacks, maximum lot coverage, and what structures are permitted. Having accurate lot dimensions is essential before you start your site plan, since errors at this stage will carry through to your final submission.
Draw Your Site Plan to Scale: Create a scaled site plan that shows your lot boundaries, all existing structures with dimensions, and the proposed project with dimensions. Include distances from the proposed structure to all property lines, a north arrow, a scale bar, easements, and your driveway. Use Site Plan Creator to produce a clean, professional PDF that meets Des Moines Development Services standards. A scale of 1 inch equals 20 feet works well for most standard residential lots in Des Moines.
Assemble Your Full Application Package: Gather all required documents beyond the site plan. For most Des Moines residential permits, this includes a completed permit application form, construction drawings showing structural details (for decks, additions, and ADUs), energy compliance forms for conditioned additions, and any required flood zone documentation if your property is near the Des Moines or Raccoon River. Review the specific checklist for your project type on the Development Services website before submitting.
Submit Online or In Person: Submit your application through the City of Des Moines online permitting portal for the fastest processing, or visit Development Services in person at 602 Robert D. Ray Drive. Online submission lets you upload your site plan PDF, pay permit fees electronically, and track your application status. If you have questions about your specific project before submitting, call Development Services at (515) 283-4200 to confirm requirements and avoid common rejection reasons.
Respond to Reviewer Comments: If the plan reviewer requests corrections or additional information, respond promptly with a revised site plan or supplemental documents. Common revision requests in Des Moines include adding missing setback dimensions, clarifying easement locations, or providing additional structural details. Using Site Plan Creator makes it easy to update your drawing and re-export a corrected PDF quickly, minimizing the back-and-forth delay and getting your permit approved faster.
Schedule Inspections and Complete Your Project: Once your permit is approved, post it visibly at the job site as required by Iowa code. Contact Development Services to schedule required inspections at the appropriate construction stages, such as footing, framing, and final inspection. Do not cover or conceal work before it has been inspected. After passing all required inspections, your project will receive final approval and the permit will be closed, giving you a clean record for future sales or refinancing.