Minimum height for a free-floating deck?

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BlinkyBill

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#261412 26-Nov-2019 14:30

Hi, does anyone know what the minimum height is allowed to be for a free-floating deck, I.e. not attached to any other structure.

basically, my vision is to build a deck on a flat piece of ground, not attached to a house or another structure; but one that can be stepped on to from a path. Around 5x5m, or 5x4m - something like that.

by the time I have posts, beams, joists and decking that all adds up to some depth - what do you reckon is the minimum I could go to?

wratterus

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#2360953 26-Nov-2019 14:33

http://www.buildmagazine.org.nz/assets/PDF/Build-139-36-Design-Right-Free-standing-timber-decks.pdf?

That might help a bit. Think it's up to date.

mrdrifter

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#2360955 26-Nov-2019 14:36

In theory you could make it level with the surrounding ground if you were willing to dig down a bit? You would obviously want H4/H5 treated timber where it was in contact with the ground.

wellygary

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#2360977 26-Nov-2019 15:09

https://www.building.govt.nz/projects-and-consents/planning-a-successful-build/scope-and-design/check-if-you-need-consents/building-consent-exemptions-for-low-risk-work/schedule-1-guidance/part-1-exempted-building-work/24-decks-platforms-bridges-boardwalks/

If its less the 1.5M you don't need a consent, and if its less than 1m you don't need a handrail...

But it the ground is flat, 200mm is a probably as much of a step as many people are confortable doing in one step, 300mm or higher and its hard to get on and off without help.. ( esp, if carrying anything)

BlinkyBill

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#2361028 26-Nov-2019 17:52

Thanks guys. Helpful link from Wratterus, looks like 150mm is the target.