Do I Need a New Gas Line When Building a Deck?

TLDR;

Yes, you may need a new gas line when building a deck—especially if you're planning to install gas appliances like a grill, fire pit, or outdoor kitchen. It depends on the location, capacity, and accessibility of your existing gas line. Always check local codes and consult a licensed contractor like NOVA Gas to determine the safest and most compliant solution.

Growing Demand for Deck Gas Lines: Why It Matters

With more homeowners and businesses in Virginia enhancing outdoor spaces with gas-powered amenities, deck builds are no longer just about lumber and railing.

People now want:

• Built-in gas grills
  
  
• Fire pits
  
  
• Outdoor heaters
  
  
• Full outdoor kitchens
  
  

This trend brings up an essential—but often overlooked—question: Do you need a new gas line when building a deck?

Let’s break it down step by step.

Understanding Permits & Code Requirements in Virginia

Before touching a gas line or adding anything to your deck, know what the law says.

Deck Permit Basics in Virginia

• Decks above 16 inches generally require a building permit.
  
  
• If you're attaching anything gas-powered, you may also need additional permits.
  
  
• The 2018 Virginia Residential Code (VRC) governs most structural and utility-related decisions, so knowing the permit requirements Virginia homeowners face is key before starting construction.
  
  

When a Mechanical Permit Is Required

If you're installing or modifying a gas line, it qualifies as mechanical work. That means:

• You need a mechanical permit
  
  
• The work must be done by a licensed professional
  
  
• A final inspection is mandatory for code compliance. This is also the stage where professional gas line inspection & maintenance ensures your system meets safety standards.
  
  

Cities like James City County and Henrico have strict permit rules tied to gas appliances.

Local Utility & Setback Considerations

• You can’t place gas lines too close to electrical lines, water pipes, or sewer systems
  
  
• Check your local utility easements before routing anything underground
  
  
• Always call 811 before you dig
  

Do You Actually Need a New Gas Line?

Not always. Here’s how to assess your current setup.

1. Do You Already Have a Gas Line?

If your home has natural gas service, check for:

• Outdoor stub-outs or valves near the deck area
  
  
• Unused capped lines (sometimes found near patios)
  
  
• Proximity of indoor gas lines that can be extended outdoors
  
  

If these options don’t exist—or are in the wrong place—you’ll likely need a new line.

2. When a New Line Is Required

You’ll probably need a new gas line if:

• Your existing line is too far from where the deck will be
  
  
• The existing pipe is undersized for the added appliance load
  
  
• You’re installing multiple appliances (grill, fire pit, heater)
  
  
• You’re upgrading to higher BTU appliances that exceed current capacity
  
  
• The only gas line available is inside a wall and difficult to access
  
  

3. What to Consider in the Design & Routing Phase

Smart planning avoids disaster later. Think about:

• Gas meter location — Never build over or enclose it
  
  
• Sleeved piping — Required when running lines under the deck
  
  
• Flexible stainless lines like TracPipe or Wardflex for turns and tight spaces
  
  
• Accessible shut-off valve — Required by code for each appliance
  

Gas Line Safety and Legal Risks

Gas is serious business. Mistakes can be catastrophic.

Risks of Building Over Buried Gas Lines

• Can cause leaks or explosions
  
  
• Makes lines impossible to inspect
  
  
• Violates Virginia building codes
  
  
• Puts you at legal and financial risk if a future problem occurs
  
  

Relevant Virginia Gas Codes

• Code of Virginia Section 56-257: Requires accurate underground utility locating
  
  
• All buried gas lines must be installed with proper depth, materials, and markings
  
  
• Gas lines must be installed by licensed professionals only
  

Step-by-Step: How to Add a Gas Line to Your Deck

Step 1: Plan It Out

• Decide which gas-powered features you want
  
  
• Check the BTU load of each appliance
  
  
• Determine where the gas line will enter and exit your home
  
  

Step 2: Contact 811 Before You Dig

• Free and mandatory
  
  
• Utility companies will mark gas, electric, water, and sewer lines
  
  

Step 3: Hire a Licensed Gas Contractor

• Required by Virginia code
  
  
• Professionals like NOVA Gas ensure safe installation
  
  
• Avoids voiding your homeowner's insurance
  
  

Step 4: Apply for Permits

• Include mechanical permit for gas
  
  
• Submit deck drawings with gas appliance locations
  
  
• Some counties require engineer-stamped plans
  
  

Step 5: Use Approved Materials

• Black iron pipe (above ground)
  
  
• TracPipe/Wardflex (flexible and code-approved)
  
  
• PVC sleeves for underground runs
  
  
• Must include:
  
  
• Accessible shut-off valve
  
  
• Drip leg to catch debris
  
  
• Pressure test results
  
  

Step 6: Get Inspected

• County or city inspector checks the installation
  
  
• Must pass to activate the gas service
  
  
• Failure to pass? You may need to rip up the deck
  

FAQs

Is a gas line considered plumbing or mechanical in Virginia?

Mechanical, per Virginia building code
Requires a mechanical permit, not just a plumbing one

Can I run a flexible gas line myself?

Not legally in Virginia unless you’re licensed
Improper installations void insurance and pose severe risk

What happens if I build a deck over a gas line?

You’ll violate code
Risk major leaks or utility strikes
Likely won’t pass inspection

How far must my deck be from existing utility lines?

Minimum 24 inches horizontally from gas lines (check local codes)
Easement areas usually restrict building anything permanent

Don’t Skip the Essentials: What to Do Before Building

Before you break ground on your new deck, do this:



• Confirm whether a gas line already exists and if it’s usable
  
  
• Contact 811 to locate underground utilities
  
  
• Review local building and mechanical code requirements
  
  
• Plan for appliance layout, gas load, and shut-off access
  
  
• Always work with licensed professionals like NOVA Gas
  

Final Thoughts: Build Smart, Build Safe with NOVA Gas

If your deck project includes any gas-powered features, chances are high you’ll need a new or extended gas line. Even if you’re handy, this is one job that demands professional help for safety, legality, and peace of mind.

At NOVA Gas, we specialize in gas appliance and fireplace installation. Whether you need a full line installation, help navigating permits, or just expert advice—we’ve got you covered.

Ready to bring your outdoor vision to life?
Reach out to NOVA Gas today and make sure your deck is built right—from the ground up, to the gas line