Deck Building Cost in San Francisco (2026)

Permit fees in San Francisco are calculated based on project valuation. For a typical residential deck, expect to pay between $800 and $1,200. This includes a base permit issuance fee starting at $161 plus valuation-based increases, and hourly plan review rates which have risen to approximately $526 per hour in 2026.

In the San Francisco market, natural Redwood or Cedar typically costs $60 to $85 per square foot installed. High-quality composite decking (like Trex or Azek) is more expensive upfront, ranging from $75 to $110+ per square foot, but is often preferred due to the city's coastal fog and damp microclimates.

Because many San Francisco properties are on steep hillsides, structural engineering and specialized footings are often required. A hillside or elevated deck can add a 25% to 40% premium to the total project cost compared to a flat, ground-level installation.

Skilled carpenters in the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward metro area earn average hourly wages of $40 to $50. When translated to project costs, professional labor typically accounts for $15 to $45 per square foot depending on the complexity of the design and site access.