Its a trade off..walking out on a 3'' step is not a good idea ... but depending on your weather that would help until the snow piled up 5 ''.

I put all mine threshold highth. J.

Mine's an inch or two below the threshold. That way it's not too noticeable of a step down.

Building Codes allow for a landing outside an exterior door (in this case a 'deck') to be up to the allowed maximum height for stair risers.

For example, if the local Code allows for a maximum stairway riser height of 7 3/4", then the distance from the top of the deck surface to the top of the door threshold can be 7 3/4"...a comfortable step down or step up.

In the area of our build, 6" is the min with 7-13/16" (why just not 7-3/4"), is the maximum same as tread height requirements. You might want to check in with your local yocal authorities. on a count of if there is a height requirement and you haven't followed it, bummer to have to lower your deck, (if you were to get caught that is).