Do You Need a Permit for an Outdoor Awning in Arizona?

Whether you need a permit depends on your specific patio cover, awning, shade sail or sunshade. While Maricopa County does not require permits for structures smaller than 200 square feet, there are a lot of structural variables at play that must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Arizona Awnings can help you determine whether your specific awning will require a permit.

Call us at 602-252-3430 to find out if your shade project needs permitting.   

Ask Your HOA

If your neighborhood has an HOA (Homeowners Association), you should contact them first since you may need HOA approval before you begin work on your shade structure. Your neighborhood’s HOA could have very specific rules about what size of awning—if any—you are allowed to install. The height of shade structures like shade sails or canopies are frequently governed by HOA regulations.

If you do not get permission from your HOA, you might have to remove your structure or risk a hefty fine.

How Do You Learn the HOA’s Rules?

You will typically find your HOA’s rules on their website. A quick Google search with the name of your neighborhood and ‘HOA’ should be enough to find it. If you can’t find them online, ask a member of the HOA board for documentation.

Can You Fight the HOA?

It is possible to fight your neighborhood’s HOA, but your best bet is likely to compromise. Your HOA probably does not outright ban shade structures and awnings. More than likely, your HOA will merely ask you to abide by certain guidelines, such as size, height, color, visibility or location restrictions.

In many cases, if it’s something that can’t be seen from the street or by your neighbors, it likely won’t be an issue.

You Have HOA Approval, Now What?

Once you have the green light from your HOA, you should ask the experts at Arizona Awnings if your project will require a permit.

Before You Get a Permit

Before you apply for your permit, you should figure out the specifics of your project. The permit application will need to include the dimensions and height of your patio awning, sunshade or shade structure, where in your yard you plan to build it and the materials you want to use.

How Do You Get a Building Permit?

You can get a residential permit here if your patio awning or shade structure requires one. Filling out the online form is the easiest way for you to get a permit for your structure.

How Long Does a Building Permit Last?

It varies from county to county, but in Maricopa County, a building permit is good for 180 days from the date the permit was initially issued or 180 days from the last completed inspection.

Will You Need an Inspection?

Many projects do require an inspection. Building inspections are fairly easy, especially when you work with Arizona Awnings. We’ve been through this process many times. Plus, we build highly safe and durable shade structures, which significantly reduces challenges and potential problems from county inspectors and regulators.  

How Much Does a Building Permit Cost?

Building permit fees are determined by the approximated cost of your structure. You will need to make a deposit when you submit the construction documents for your project.

How Long Does a Building Permit Take to Process?

It varies by city, but the first review can take anywhere from 10 business days to a month. There are also ways to request an expedited review, but this will likely cost an additional fee.

Request Your Free Residential Awning, Commercial Awning or Shade Structure Consultation in Phoenix Today

The first step in any awning or shade structure project is deciding on what you want. At Arizona Awnings, our team of professionals can help guide you through the process. You shouldn’t have to figure out the confusing specifics on your own—just focus on what kind of shade structure or patio awning will be best for your home or business. Leave the rest to us.

Schedule a free estimate by calling our awning specialists at 602-252-3430.