What to sort out first
Older decks were not always built to today’s footing rules. Brookfield’s inspectors list “pier depth less than 48 inches” and skipped pier inspections among the most common deck errors. If the old footings are shallow or unknown, plan on new ones rather than building a new surface on top of them.
- Age and condition of the frame
- Footings that may be too shallow
- Demolition and haul-away
- A new layout or the same footprint
Sources: Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, SPS 325 Appendix B. Checked November 9, 2026. Confirm current requirements with your building inspector.
By city
Budget first
Our Milwaukee deck cost guide lays out 2026 published prices by material and size, plus local permit fees from Wauwatosa and Brookfield.
Other deck projects
Deck Replacement FAQ
Is this site the builder?
No. This site takes deck requests from Milwaukee-area homeowners and passes them to independent deck builders. You agree on price and scope with the builder directly, and a match is not guaranteed.
Can old footings be reused?
Only if an inspector or builder confirms their size and depth. Brookfield wants 48-inch piers with at least 12 inches of concrete, and many older decks fall short.
Is a replacement a new permit?
Usually yes, since it is new construction. Milwaukee’s DNS checklist lists decks as needing a permit.
Do I need a permit?
It depends on the municipality. Milwaukee’s DNS checklist says a deck needs a permit. Waukesha, Wauwatosa and Brookfield also require one, and West Allis exempts only very small, low decks and like-for-like board, stair or railing replacement. Other suburbs set their own rules.