Patio Covers, Pergolas & Decks in Lakewood, CO

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

Every patio cover needs a permit in Lakewood, regardless of size. Freestanding pergolas of 200 sq ft or less are exempt, but attached pergolas are permitted under the city's "Deck, Pergola or Ramp" permit type. Decks are exempt only if they are 200 sq ft or less, no more than 30 inches above grade at every point, not attached, and not serving the required exit door.

West of Kipling is a different wind zone. Lakewood requires much higher design wind speeds west of Kipling Street. That covers Green Mountain and the foothills side of the city. Patio covers there need engineer-stamped plans. East of Kipling, standard designs usually work. Either way, Lakewood uses a 30 psf ground snow load that can't be reduced.

Lakewood construction details we build to:

• Ledger boards can't be fastened through brick or stone veneer.
• Existing roofing must come off where a patio cover ledger attaches.
• Footings must go at least 36 inches deep.
• Townhome and condo owners need an HOA approval letter with the deck permit application.

Permits are filed through eTRAKiT, Lakewood's online system. Contractors must be registered with the city.

Recent Lakewood project: a two-story screen enclosure, shown in the photo on this page.

Lakewood FAQs

Do I need a permit for a pergola in Lakewood?

Not for a freestanding pergola of 200 sq ft or less. Attached pergolas and larger freestanding ones need a permit.

I live near Green Mountain. Does that change anything?

Yes. West of Kipling, Lakewood requires higher wind design, and patio covers need a professional engineer's stamp. We include that in our plans.