HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-07-27 Letter to Homeowner re Deck Code Non ComplianceIPA
City of Oak Park Heights
14168 Oak Park Blvd. N.
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
July 27, 2020
Mr. Blake Van Denburgh
15169 641h St. N.
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
Re: Residing Project & Deck
Dear Mr. Van Denburgh:
Phone: 651.439.4439
Fax: 651.439.0574
Thank you for contacting me regarding the deck issue encountered while in the process of residing your home
and for allowing me access to your property for a site investigation.
In researching our files, I did not find that a permit was issued for deck construction at the home, thus I have
no records to work with to this end.
Per my site visit, the deck is non-compliant and likely a safety hazard due to the framing of the structure.
When constructed, it appears to have had its joist hangers attached directly to the steel siding upon the home
and a ledger board with proper connection is not in evidence.
The framing that is in place and which appears to be lending support to the deck is showing stress fractures
and in some areas the members have or are splitting. The posts themselves appear to be simply resting upon
concrete pads or footings, which may or may not be at frost footing depth.
The stairway is open backed and the opening greater than permitted by Code. The openings at the guards
exceed the allowable minimum opening between the guards also. The guards are connected in a manner that
is not secure and likely will not withstand pressure testing against them.
All in all, this deck was not constructed to minimum Code and I am not comfortable that this deck is safe for
use. The deck does need to be removed for the siding of the house to be done properly and should you wish
to reinstall or replace the deck, it shall be done in such a manner that minimum Code requirements for life and
safety are met. The deck work shall require a plan and a work permit issued from the City and if a contractor
is performing the work, they shall be licensed as required by the State of Minnesota Department of Labor and
Industry.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
PLANING & CODE ENFORCEMENT
Ju'e ultman
B '1 ng Official
Email: jhultman@cityofoakparkheights.com