MDK Permitting › Permit guides
Do I need a permit for a porch or patio cover?
Most roofed covers attached to the house do. Here's what's involved and what it costs.
When does a cover need a permit?
A roof over a porch, patio or carport usually needs a building permit, especially when it's attached to the house. The city checks the posts, beams, footings and how it ties into the house.
What about pergolas?
Open pergolas with no roof are often exempt. Once you add a solid roof or panels, it's usually treated like a patio cover.
Does it need an engineer?
Most standard covers don't. Big spans, heavy roofs, or covers over 400 sq ft often do. We draw the engineered plans and get them stamped.
What do you need from me?
Size, how it attaches, the roof material, photos, and your address.
What it costs
Our price, plus city permit fees worked out from each city’s published fee schedule. City fees are paid to the city and the final amount is set at review. Construction isn’t included.
| Example | MDK price | Washington County | Hillsboro | Portland | Clackamas County | Marion County |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 sq ft patio cover Building permit | $800 plans, engineering & permits | About $795 | About $215 | About $655 | About $295 | About $245 |
| 300 sq ft carport Building permit | $800 plans, engineering & permits | About $795 | About $215 | About $655 | About $295 | About $245 |
County columns are for areas outside city limits. Other cities have their own fees. Get your exact numbers with the price builder.
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More permit guides: Decks · Retaining walls · Outdoor stairs · ADUs & garage conversions · Additions · Panels, EV chargers & hot tubs · Load-bearing walls · Sheds & fences
General guidance for Oregon homeowners. Rules vary by city and county, and the building official makes the final call. Prices checked against published fee schedules in November 2026.