https://dcra.dc.gov/publication/zoning-administrator-interpretation-6-pergolas-and-trellis-cross-member-spacing-be

This link is so helpful. Thanks for sharing.

Has anyone confirmed if a permit is required for installing a pergola? I wish I knew an inspector to ask directly.

Hi All-- I Just found this thread as we are looking to add a pergola to our row house...interested if the OP ever figured out the information...seems from another post that a pergola does not require a permit if installed, but if you add in a deck that would require it.
Thanks!

go to the zoning website. They have the electronic version of DC's zoning regs. You'll find information about awnings in Subtitles B and C of Title 11. Keep nosing around for cross references.

Anonymous wrote:We are not in a historic area. I really wish the DCRA website made it easier to find guidelines on set back, area that can be covered and building standards. I really don't want to take time off work to go talk to someone and then have to come back again multiple times with paperwork.
what is the property line set back, how many feet can be covered with a awning or porch roof? Do the manufacturer diagrams suffice?

I did this ^ went to the office to speak to someone and wrote detailed notes for deck requirements and followed instructions and deck guide. My drawings were rejected three times. Two of those times the person told me exactly what changes were required and we did that in the office. I gave up last year as my contractor had other projects to work and I couldn’t take off multiple days to obtain a permit.

Following this thread closely because I’ve decided to do pavers (no permit required) and a pergola now - to save my sanity.

DCRA has links to all of the relevant codes and you can get your information that way. For basic setback, lot occupancy, etc information, you can get that from the interactive DC Zoning Map via the zoning website. Enter your address and then on the left hand side click on the tab that says "full report." It will run the report for you to download.

We are not in a historic area. I really wish the DCRA website made it easier to find guidelines on set back, area that can be covered and building standards. I really don't want to take time off work to go talk to someone and then have to come back again multiple times with paperwork.
what is the property line set back, how many feet can be covered with a awning or porch roof? Do the manufacturer diagrams suffice?

I don’t know, but the private residents’ office at DCRA is really helpful. Or if you are historic district, call that office at DCRA.

I am trying to find the details on putting up a pergola & awnings in DC. We had a company out a few years ago and I remember them saying something about Pergola 10X14 feet or less did not need a permit in DC. I am searching through emails & DC.gov to try and find the information again. Does anyone have this information handy? ( Do know the sheds don't need a permit if under 50sq feet but I can not find the details on pergola & awnings)