The actual difference
Compare the job each one does.
The quickest way to separate them is to compare the problem being solved, who reviews it, when it happens and what a real project looks like.
Toronto lists a deck more than 60 cm (24 in) above the ground as requiring a permit.
Brampton requires a permit for a deck or porch 0.6 m (2 ft) or more above grade.
Toronto identifies decks or porches constructed as additions to a building among projects requiring permits. Confirm the design with Toronto Building.
Any deck or porch physically attached or anchored to the house needs a building permit, regardless of the lower height threshold.
An uncovered platform no more than 60 cm high may be exempt when it is not part of a required exit and complies with zoning; the official list is not exhaustive.
A deck below 0.6 m that is not attached to the house does not require a building permit under the City’s published guidance, but zoning still applies.
Yes. An exemption from a building permit does not remove zoning and property-specific obligations.
Yes. Setbacks and permitted encroachments must be checked under the zoning by-law.
Confirm finished height, whether the deck is an addition or required exit, and the Toronto zoning rules for your lot.
Check height, physical attachment and property setbacks; confirm an ambiguous design with Brampton Building or Zoning Services.
A deck right at 0.6 m is a reason to double-check your municipality. Brampton explicitly says 0.6 m or higher. Toronto lists decks more than 60 cm and separately describes when uncovered low platforms may be exempt. Attachment, exits and zoning can change the answer. Neither guide is an address-specific approval.
Official sources
Apply this to your project
Find the rule that applies where you're building.
These definitions explain the difference, but a permit decision still depends on your project and municipality. Start with a city-specific guide and its official sources.