View Work Exempt from Building Permits (4551) to determine if a permit is required. 

If a building permit is not required, the patio cover must still be constructed in accordance with applicable building codes. Furthermore, the Chula Vista Zoning Ordinance applies to the use and location of all structures, including those not requiring a building permit.

All new structures must therefore be reviewed by the Planning Division to ensure the structure meets the requirements of the zone. Please check with Planning staff to ensure your proposed structure meets all standards, such as setbacks from property lines and adjacent structures, allowable height, and lot coverage.

Submit a complete application package, including:

1. Residential Accessory Patio Cover, Pool, Wall Application Form (4562B)
2. Plot/Site Plan showing general layout of the existing building site, location of the fence, and address.
3. Construction plans and details, including but not limited to: post sizing and spacing, rafter span and spacing, beam size and footing size.

DSD provides handouts that show construction techniques for miscellaneous structures, including patio covers. These handouts may be used in lieu of construction plans when attached to a property prepared plot plan. See our Patio Covers-Lightweight Guide (4593).

Please see our Project Submittal Page for current application procedures.

At certain stages of construction, you must schedule an inspection. The following represents the sequence of required inspections for a typical patio cover:

1. Footings - after footings have been excavated but before concrete is placed.
2. Ledger - when ledger beams are attached to an existing structure.
3. Final - when work is complete.

Schedule an Inspection

• Patio Covers-Lightweight Guide (4593)
• Residential Plot Plan Guide (4595)
• Fee Information