They just want to see it WILL comply with code... footer depths /spacing, rails if is high off the ground like Kevin said (If I recall it is 30" above grade). Then if there is a roof there will be a ledger, and water shield, ect...
Essentially you can just draw what you are going to build, so they can see it and approve it beforehand. You'll most likely have to get zoning clearance as well.
Rear decks can be different than a front porch for sure, since nobody really cares about the back.