Do I Need a Permit to Build a Patio Cover in Phoenix?

In most cases, no. Adding a retractable awning or fabric awning to an existing patio typically doesn't require a permit as long as it's under 200 square feet. However, if you're building a new covered patio, carport or similar structural addition onto your home, especially if poured concrete footers are required – or if your project involves significant electrical work – then a permit may be necessary.

Building Codes in Arizona

Counties, and sometimes even cities, have their own regulations. Maricopa County requires a permit for constructing a roof-extending patio cover or ramada, especially if they are attached to your house since it will add more roofing to your overall property. The county also has other rules regarding its construction, which you should review before beginning your project – one of those being that your patio cover must have a minimum slope of ¼ inch per foot.

The type of material you’re considering is another critical component. If you’re only using a lightweight fabric material to add a patio cover awning, you may not need a permit. If you’re extending your roof and adding block pillars or other support structures, the city will typically require you to get a permit.

Why Permits Are Necessary in Arizona

Permits are required to ensure the patio cover meets local building codes and safety standards. Local guidelines are intended to prevent unstable and dangerous construction jobs that could lead to structural collapse and serious injuries.

Acquiring a permit provides the city – and the homeowner – assurance that their patio cover has been officially approved to withstand harsh weather like strong winds and rain, protecting your investment and guaranteeing the safety of your occupants.

If you’d rather not deal with the tedious and sometimes expensive permitting process, opting for fabric awnings or retractable awnings over existing patios may be the ideal solution for your Phoenix home.

HOA vs. City Regulations

Even if your patio cover plans have been approved by the city and you’ve received approval regarding permit requirements, your local Homeowners Association (HOA) may have additional rules you’ll need to adhere to.

HOAs may have guidelines that restrict the size, height and color of your patio cover, if they even allow you to build one in the first place. While you can advocate for an unconventional structure with the HOA, that can cause a lot of stress. Since HOA rules are legally binding, the chances of winning disputes aren’t high. You can learn more about HOA rules and rules about awnings in our blog here.

To ensure your plans align with your local HOA, review your HOA’s covenants, conditions and restrictions documents to see which modifications are allowed and submit your plans for approval.

How to Get a Permit

Nail Down the Specifics: Before you go to the city or Maricopa County, you need to figure out the specifics of your patio cover plan, including its size and location.

Contact Your Local Building Department: Once you have a design plan in place, reach out to the county’s building department or review your local building codes and permit requirements online.

Prepare Necessary Documentation: If a permit is required, submit a detailed plan of your patio cover, including blueprints, materials lists, site and construction plans and the official or unofficial recorded deed. Make sure your documents are ready for submission, converted into the right file format and scaled to proportion, which you can learn more about here.

Submit Application: You can find the residential permit application for Maricopa County here. How much you’ll pay for the permit will depend on the approximate cost of your structure. Approval can take anywhere from 10 days to a month. Once acquired, the permit will last 180 days, or from the start of construction to the last inspection.

Schedule an Inspection: To retain your permit, you’ll need to schedule one or more inspections during construction so an official can verify your expansion is up to code.

Receive Assistance From Awning and Patio Cover Construction Experts Phoenix Has Relied On Since 1928

At Arizona Awning, we have been building patio cover awnings and installing retractable awnings and shade structures for homeowners and business owners for nearly a century. Although our projects typically don’t require permits, our team can help you through legal hurdles that may come up. Our goal is to make construction a seamless and stress-free process.

We only use high-quality awning frames and fade and fire-resistant fabrics to ensure our patio covers are not just structurally sound but will serve you well for many years to come.

Schedule a free estimate for your home or business today by calling 602-252-3430.