What to sort out first
Brookfield’s deck sheet allows a maximum riser of 8 inches and a minimum tread of 9 inches, and says risers and treads must be uniform. The state appendix flags stairs for multiple-level decks as a concentrated load that may need engineering. Milwaukee’s DNS checklist says stairs or steps probably need a permit.
- Total rise from deck to grade
- A landing at the bottom
- Stair width and direction
- Any second level or step-down
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
Stairs & Multi-Level Decks 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.
What are the stair limits?
Brookfield’s fact sheet sets an 8-inch maximum riser and a 9-inch minimum tread, both uniform.
Do stairs need a permit in Milwaukee?
The DNS checklist marks stairs or steps as probably needing one.
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.