[tec498]

Hi guys,

I recently bought my first new house and this is the first project I want to tackle. I would like to build stairs out of my back patio door in my kitchen to backyard. The distance to the ground is exactly 22 inches so I'm thinking I only need one or two steps.

Do I need to get a building permit to complete this work? I've scoured over the code and cannot find a definitive answer (I live in Virginia). I did however find that if I have no more than 2 steps I do not need a handrail.

Do I need some type of footers for the stairs?

If I need a permit to build the steps can I remove the safety railing installed by the builder? It's low enough to the ground that I can just step out until the steps are built. However, I don't want to do this if it affects building code or my homeowners insurance.

Thanks a lot guys, If anyone has advice, examples, or pictures please post.

 

[tec498]

Probably a deck eventually. When the time comes to build it (not soon) I will just take the steps off and use them for steps off the deck if I can. If not I will use them for scrap wood. Is the landing needed to comply with code in Virginia or were you just suggesting it for looks? I just looked at the building code in Virginia again after posting and I can't find anything relating to building these steps... Am I looking in the wrong place? Thanks

 

[tec498]

Ok, I found what I think may be the code. R311, says I can space my risers at 7 3/4" and I only need a stoop if I have more than two risers. I should only need two risers at that height so I don't need a stoop. The question still remains, do I need a permit to build these and do I need footers or is there another way to do it. Any suggestions?