Building a Deck in Brigantine or Other Shore Towns? Here’s What to Expect

Posted by JKR Builders on April 29th, 2025 

If you’re considering building a deck on your coastal home in Brigantine, Ventnor City, or any of New Jersey’s scenic shore towns, you’re not alone. Outdoor living has become a must-have for homeowners — and at JKR Builders, we’ve helped dozens of families turn unused backyard space into stunning, functional retreats.

But building a deck near the beach is different than building inland. From material selection to zoning regulations, there are a few unique factors to consider before you start your project. Here’s what to expect when building a custom deck along the Jersey Shore.

Shore Town Permitting & Zoning is Stricter — Plan Ahead

Many Jersey Shore towns, including Brigantine, have specific regulations around lot coverage, height limits, and setback requirements. Depending on your location, you may also be in a flood zone, which requires elevation compliance and building code adaptations.

Before breaking ground, you’ll likely need:

 

  • A zoning permit

  • Construction permit

  • Survey showing the location of the proposed deck

  • Compliance with FEMA and local flood regulations

 

Our team at JKR Builders works closely with local municipalities to streamline this process and ensure every project is approved quickly and built to code.

 

📎 For reference, you can view Brigantine’s zoning regulations here.

Material Selection is Crucial at the Coast

Coastal air is harsh on building materials. Salt, moisture, and temperature fluctuations can cause premature rot, rust, and decay. That’s why material choice isn’t just a style decision — it’s a structural one.

Recommended Decking Materials for Shore Homes:

  • Composite decking (like Trex or TimberTech) – long-lasting, low maintenance, fade and moisture resistant

  • Pressure-treated framing lumber rated for ground contact

  • Stainless steel or coated fasteners to prevent corrosion

  • PVC or aluminum railings for durability in salt-heavy air

At JKR Builders, we only use materials designed to withstand the unique coastal environment of Brigantine, Longport, Atlantic City, and nearby towns.

Design for Shore Living

Shore homes have unique needs. Your deck should feel like a seamless extension of your lifestyle — whether that’s entertaining, sunbathing, or watching the sunset over the bay. We encourage homeowners to think beyond the basics:

  • Built-in seating and planters for a polished look

  • Outdoor kitchens or grills for seasonal entertaining

  • Pergolas or shade structures to create comfortable retreats

  • Cable or glass railings for unobstructed water views

  • Lighting for nighttime use and ambiance

Our custom deck designs blend function and style, with layouts that complement the architecture of your coastal home while enhancing usability all year long.

Choose a Builder Who Knows the Shore

Building in coastal towns isn’t the same as inland remodeling. It requires knowledge of shore-specific materials, local codes, environmental resilience, and design that stands up to wind and salt.

At JKR Builders, we specialize in deck construction, home additions, and exterior remodels across South Jersey’s beach communities. From Ventnor to Brigantine, we bring craftsmanship, coastal know-how, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build decks that last — and impress.

Build It Right, Enjoy It Longer

A deck in Brigantine or any Jersey Shore town isn’t just an upgrade — it’s a lifestyle investment. But with the added environmental factors and local code requirements, it pays to work with a builder who knows the area.

Contact JKR Builders today to schedule a consultation for your custom deck. Whether you already have a design in mind or need full planning assistance, our team is ready to help you create a space you’ll enjoy for years to come.