A new patio cover or deck may be exactly what your backyard needs to bring it back to life. But before you begin building your deck foundation or assembling your patio cover, you should look into various local laws that may regulate the design and style of your decking or patio cover. Let’s take a look at the purpose of permits and how you can find out if you need a permit for your deck or patio cover.
Check out our updated article: Do I Need a Permit to Build a Deck?
Permits are issued by local governments to ensure that new construction or renovations are made according to building codes. These codes are designed to keep homeowners safe, and may even have implications for insurance coverage. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to determine whether or not a permit is required for a residential decking or patio cover project. Fortunately, the information is very easy to find online, and the application process is generally straightforward.
Every municipality has different laws regarding the need for permits for decking or patio cover construction. Most areas determine the need for a decking permit based on the height of the deck, but this height may vary among cities or local governments. For example, in Escondido, a permit for decking installation is only necessary if the decking is more than 30 inches above grade.
In addition to size, other factors may come into play. Although you don’t usually need a permit to build a patio cover in the city of San Diego, you do need a permit if the patio cover is attached your home in any way. Certain laws also regulate how close your patio cover can be to other structures or property lines. To find this information, visit your city’s website or contact your local development services office.
For more information on permits, decking, and patio cover construction, visit J & W Lumber. Call (760) 741-8776 to learn about our patio cover kits, decking design services, and high-quality lumber.
It helped when you mentioned how permits are issued to make sure any building is done according to code. I understand that doing some research can help you find the best type of permit to make sure your project goes well. Personally, I would also want to take the time to do some research in order to know what permits I need for my project.
My husband and I have been thinking of having a professional come out and do a patio installation. As I was reading your article, you state that if the patio is connected to the home, you will need a permit to build. This is excellent information to have in case we decide to have a patio installed.
Can you give me help how to get a permit on a existing 40ft x 16ft patio cover (wooden)).
I live in Stockton California do I need a permit?
We live in Oregon. I want to build a patio cover with corrogated roofing over a existing deck ( 10ft x 16ft) and one side attached to the house exterior wall. The cover would be 10ft x 16ft. Total covered space 160 sq ft. Is this legal and do i need a permit? Is there a specific ceiling height requirement?
Good afternoon Wally,
Unfortunately we are only familiar with San Diego building regulations. Oregon, being a very different climate, could have wildly varying permit regulations. You best bet is to head on over to your city/state website and look to see what permit requirements they are going to follow. Keep in mind that there might even be variation between city, county, and state requirements depending.
Thank you for your comment
Can I run the cover patio up to my property line
Hi Elsa:
Codes vary based on the state, county and city; so it depends on where you live. The California Building Code requires that the minimum distance from property line to the proposed patio cover shall be 5 feet. Hope this helps.
I like how you suggest checking for special permits in your location to build a patio. My brother told me that he would like to have a nice place where he can bring his friends and family. I will suggest to him to contact a professional so that he doesn’t have to worry about getting any permits.
Hi Derek-
Thats a great idea! All of our JW Lumber locations have lists of local contractors who can help him out so if he’s in San Diego- give us a call!!
https://www.jwlumber.com/contact/
Happy Building!
Do I need a permit to put a roof on my patio in South Carolina
Hi Sandra! For any building project its a good idea to check with your local city and state building permits and regulations. Here’s a link you might want to start with
https://www.sciway.net/gov/sc-building-permits.html
Good luck with your new roof!!
Happy Building!
Great work! Much appreciated, keep posting many more.
Thank you Dale!!
Happy Building!