Have you decided to transform a backyard into an oasis? You might have planned to install a pergola in the yard. Did you consider a permit for pergola installation? Without it, you may be at risk of facing legal consequences. Thus, your pergola needs legal approval to avoid financial penalties.
Potential Risks of Building a Pergola Without a Permit
Do pergolas require a permit? Not every pergola, and we’ll dig into the specifics later. First, what happens when you ignore the times when you do need a permit?
Tear Down the Pergola
Local building departments in your area may force you to demolish the pergola constructed without a permit. This happens especially when your pergola has not met local building codes. So, the outdoor structure may cause issues for you and your future.
Need for Professional Updates
Pergola installation in Miami with no permit may not abide by local laws. That is why you need to hire professionals to upgrade the design. The main aim is to ensure a safe result and align with local regulations. In this case, removal of the structure is not always mandatory.
Financial Penalty
The permit office in your locality may levy a few financial penalties. If you have not obtained a permit, you are obliged to pay a fine.
You may need to pay a daily charge until the removal or upgrade of the pergola.
Restrict Work Orders
The building department in your locality may send a stop-work order if you have no permit for pergola installation. You cannot continue with the construction work. You may also need to pay a high fine to the authority.
Trouble During the Sale
You might have built the pergola to add property value. Unpermitted pergolas may prevent buyers from investing in your property. Buyers will ask if you have obtained a pergola building permit. Without the permit, your property could lose its value.
Do You Need a Permit for a Pergola?
Not every pergola installation project needs a permit. The most important factors influencing the need for an approval are the pergola’s:
- Size
- Placement
- Height
For instance, you do not need a permit for a smaller pergola (up to 200 sq. ft). Freestanding pergolas also need no permit for installation. However, the laws related to permits are not the same in every location. Remember, you may need a few weeks to obtain the permit, so it’s best to learn early. Also, remember that your pergola permit has an expiration date.
How Much is the Cost of Your Pergola Permit?
The cost of the permit starts from $50. But, location and local regulations may affect the exact cost. The local authorization body sets the fees based on various factors. You can look for a local contractor to learn more about the guidelines for a pergola installation.
A pergola construction project involves multiple steps to ensure safety. Freestanding structures do not always need a permit before installation. But, for all pergolas in Miami, you should contact a local authority just to be sure. This approach will help you avoid legal issues in the future!