Do I need a permit for deck construction or replacement in White Lake Charter Township?

Most likely yes. Deck construction or replacement usually requires a permit in Michigan. Confirm the specifics with White Lake Charter Township.

The Michigan Residential Code (R 408.30505) exempts a deck only if it is 200 square feet or less, no more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to or within 36 inches of the house or an accessory structure, and does not serve a door; any other deck needs a building permit. Michigan requires exterior footings to extend 42 inches below grade unless the building official allows a different depth for local conditions (R 408.30522). Michigan added a flashing rule for attached decks: approved corrosion resistant flashing must be installed above the ledger (R 408.30523a). The permit may come from the city, village, or township, the county, or the state Bureau of Construction Codes, so check the BCC Statewide Jurisdiction List first. This deck is attached to the house or will have a roof. Where a small deck exemption exists at all, it covers only small, low, freestanding decks that do not serve the home's required exit door, so an attached deck falls outside it. A ledger bolted to the house is the most common point of deck failure, which is why departments inspect the footings, framing and ledger connection before the decking goes on. Adding a roof makes the deck a covered structure that is reviewed like a patio cover or addition, including roof framing and, in high wind areas, uplift connections.