Patio Covers, Pergolas & Decks in Arvada, CO

Building a Patio Cover, Pergola or Deck in Arvada: What to Know

Permits in Arvada come from the City of Arvada Building Division through its eTRAKiT portal (arvadapermits.org). Arvada adopted the 2024 International Codes and the 2026 National Electrical Code in 2026, along with its own Wildfire Resiliency Code. The city's design criteria call for a 30 psf ground snow load, a 30 psf roof snow load and a 36-inch frost depth.

When you need a permit:

• Patio covers: attached shade structures and patio covers need a building permit.
• Pergolas: detached pergolas, gazebos and other accessory structures need a permit once they're over 200 sq ft.
• Decks: Arvada requires a permit for decks and doesn't list a low-deck exemption.
• Screen rooms and sunrooms: these are treated as additions, which need a permit.

Wind is the big local factor. Arvada has two design wind speeds: 136 mph from the east city limit to Highway 93, and 150 mph west of Highway 93. Homes closer to the foothills need beefier post connections and roof attachment, so we size every cover to the zone your home is in.

Arvada also requires a licensed contractor to be listed on the permit unless an owner-occupant is doing the work. Rules change, so check with the Arvada Building Division before you build.