Construction of a patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor requires an accessory structure permit. Simple concrete or pave stone patio areas without covers/canopies/or arbors do not require a permit. Electrical or plumbing construction work in conjunction with patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor construction requires separate permit(s).   

A patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor is defined as an open-sided accessory structure subordinate and incidental to the primary structure or residence. It may have a solid roof or partially open roof. A patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor may be freestanding or attached.

Residential Patio Cover/Canopy/Pergola/Arbor: A patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor shall be located within the side or rear yard. If located in a side yard, a patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor shall not extend closer to the front property line than the front of the house. A patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor must be set back 6 feet from side and rear property lines. For corner lots, a patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor must be set back 15 feet from the side yard lot line adjacent to a street. A maximum of two accessory structures are allowed per lot or property.

Nonresidential & Multifamily Patio Cover/Canopy/Pergola/Arbor: Allowable nonresidential and multifamily patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor construction is generally the same as allowable residential patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor construction; however, please check with Development Services staff for details on allowable nonresidential and multifamily patio cover/canopy/pergola/arbor construction.

Safety Note: Even if using hand tools, before starting any work that may involve digging, trenching or grading please call 811 from any phone in Texas to obtain a line locate. You may be surprised what is buried underground.      

Submittal Requirements: (See accessory structure permit application for details)

• Accessory Structure Permit Application
• Construction plans - provide drawings and construction specifications as listed in this document: Construction Details
• Plot plan
• Fee: $30 (less than 120 square feet); $75 (120 to 250 square feet); $0.50/square foot (greater than 250 square feet)
• HOA approval letter (for accessory structures on residential lots within a neighborhood with a homeowners association)

Submittal Method: Accessory structure permit application and payment must be submitted in person by homeowner or contractor.