Yes, you need a permit
Broward County requires permits for patio covers. Attached, freestanding, big, small — all of them. Each city in the county runs its own building department, but the rules trace back to the Florida Building Code.
A good builder handles the whole process. You should not have to visit the building department or decipher forms. That is our job.
What the application includes
The package starts with a site plan. It shows your lot, the house, and where the cover will sit. Setbacks get measured against the city's rules.
Engineered drawings come next. A licensed engineer designs the structure and stamps the plans. The drawings show footings, framing, connections, and materials.
Product approvals back up the materials. Florida keeps a database of approved building products. The panels and connectors we use carry those approvals.
How long it takes
Timelines vary by city and season. Simple covers can clear in a few weeks. Complex or commercial jobs take longer. We give you a realistic timeline up front.
Clean submittals move faster. Most delays come from incomplete drawings. We submit complete packages to avoid the back-and-forth.
Inspections during the build
The city inspects at set stages. Common ones: footings before the pour, framing and anchors before the roof, and a final when everything is done.
We schedule each inspection and meet the inspector. You do not need to be home. We handle it all and keep you posted.
HOA approval is separate
The city permit and the HOA approval are two different things. Many neighborhoods require both. Get the HOA sign-off first, then we file with the city.
HOAs want to see colors, materials, and drawings. We provide an approval packet with everything boards typically ask for.
What it costs
Permit fees are set by each city. They are a small fraction of the project cost. Our written price includes the permit fees so there are no surprises.
Keep your records
Save the approved drawings and the final inspection card. They prove the work was permitted and inspected. Future buyers and insurers both ask for them.
Call (301) 679-9193 or send the form for a free on-site estimate.