Patio Covers, Pergolas & Decks in Golden, CO

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

Permits in Golden come from the City of Golden Building Department (303-384-8151) through its Accela-based Online Permit Portal. The city's permit page lists a 42.9 psf ground snow load, a 30 psf roof snow load, a 150 mph design wind speed (Exposure C) and a 36-inch frost depth.

When you need a permit:

• Patio covers: patio and porch covers and awnings need a permit with plan review.
• Covered decks: decks with attached roofs, canopies, overhead arbors or sunscreens need a permit at any height.
• Decks: a permit is needed if the deck is 30 inches or more above grade. Decks of 200 sq ft or less that stay under 30 inches, aren't attached to the house and don't serve an exit door are exempt.
• Screen rooms and sunrooms: patio enclosures and screened porches need a permit with plan review.

Golden sits right at the foothills. That 42.9 psf ground snow load and 150 mph wind speed are among the highest in the metro, so covers here need heavier beams and stronger connections than the same design in Denver.

All licensed contractors must be named on the permit before it's issued. Golden's site lists both 2021 and 2024 code editions, so confirm the current code with the Building Department.