Permits · Guide
Does a terrace need a building permit?
The new building act 2025, when a permit is needed, railing requirements and waterfront permits — clearly and practically.
Reading time ~7 min · Updated 8/2026
This guide is general in nature. Permit practices vary by municipality, and the final decision is always made by your municipality's building supervision authority. The property owner applies for the permit. Always check the current guidance from your own municipality.
Does a terrace need a building permit? In most cases a ground-level, low terrace does not require a permit, but a roofed, raised or glazed terrace may require a permit or a notification. The requirements depend on the project's size, location and the municipality's regulations.
The new building act 2025
The new building act that took effect at the start of 2025 eased permit requirements. Key principles:
- Canopies under 50 m² generally no longer require a permit under the law.
- Factory-made terrace glazing where more than 30% of the wall surface is openable is exempt from a permit.
- The municipality's detailed plan and building ordinance may still set stricter requirements than the law.
In other words, the law sets looser limits, but local regulations ultimately decide.
Building permit, action permit or notification?
- Building permit: required for more substantial and fixed structures, for example a large roofed structure.
- Action permit: a lighter procedure for smaller structures — the requirement varies by municipality.
- Notification procedure: in some municipalities a small structure can simply be reported to building supervision.
When does a terrace require a permit?
A permit or notification may be needed, for example, in these situations:
- A fixed canopy is built on the terrace or it is glazed (case by case)
- The structure is large or clearly high above the ground
- The site is in a detailed-plan area with its own regulations
- The construction takes place in a shore area
Railings and safety
Safety rules apply to a terrace regardless of the permit situation. When the terrace floor is more than 50 cm above the ground, a railing is required. There are guideline values for the railing's height and baluster spacing to prevent falls. We design and build railings to meet the regulations.
Waterfront construction and docks
The shore is a matter of its own. Building a dock or waterfront terrace is governed by municipal rules, and a larger dock may require a permit under the Water Act as well as the consent of a neighbor or the owner of the water area. Always find out from the municipal building supervision — and, where necessary, the ELY Centre (ELY-keskus) — what you may build on your shore. We build docks and waterfront terraces and advise on the right procedure during the site visit.
How to find out the permits for your project
- Contact your municipality's building supervision — they'll tell you what your specific project requires.
- Check the municipality's building ordinance and any detailed plan.
- Allow time for permit processing well before the planned construction.
We're happy to help map out what your project requires — ask for more in the free site visit.
