Getting a Deck Permit is one of the easier permits to obtain.  Unless you are adding a complete Outdoor Kitchen, or hot-tub, you only have to worry about Zoning and Building.

   You will need to look-up your Block:   and Lot:   from the township building department, sometimes this can be done with a phone call, but usually requires a visit. The first thing you will need to get a deck permit is an up to date survey, showing the property in it's current state. This doesn't necessarily mean you have to get a new survey.  If you have a copy of the survey from when you purchased your house this should be fine.  In order to get your zoning permit,  you will have to draw the proposed dimension on a copy of your survey.  It will have to have dimensions, and be scaled accurately.  It is also wise to find out from the township what your setbacks are because every township has different setbacks.  What is a setback?  A setback is the required distance between Buildings, streets, easements, property lines, and other structures.

    After you have gotten everything ready for zoning,  you will need a fairly detailed Deck Plan.  It will need to show a Top view with the size Joist, Beams, and post you will be using.  You will have to specify the spacing between these as well.  Also you will need to specify what you will be using to fasten the deck to the house.  Some areas may require special fasteners such as hurricane straps or seismic bracing.  This will depend on where you live.  You will also need an elevation view on your Deck Plan.