Patio Covers

To build a residential patio cover, you need approvals from the Planning and Building and Safety Divisions. Patio covers can be attached to a dwelling or a residential accessory structure, or they can be detached. Lattice patio covers do not count towards maximum allowed building lot coverage, while solid roofs do.

To get approval, you must meet zoning requirements for your area. Check your property’s zoning designation using our online tool: https://rma.venturacounty.gov/divisions/planning/whats-my-zoning/

If you’re in a non-coastal zone, review the Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance (NCZO) sections 8105-4, 8106-1.1, 8106-5.1, 8106-5.2, 8106-7.4, and 8106-8.3. If you’re in a coastal zone, review the Coastal Zoning Ordinance (CZO) sections 8175-2, 8175-3.6, and 8175-4.1.

For non-coastal zones, you need a Zoning Clearance permit, which can be submitted online through the Citizen Access portal:  https://vcca.venturacounty.gov/citizenaccess/Default.aspx

For coastal zones, the type of permit that is needed depends on your property’s location.  If your property is beachfront or in the Santa Monica Mountains, you need to determine if your project is exempt from a Coastal Planned Development Permit. If it qualifies for an exemption from a Coastal Planned Development Permit, you’ll need a Zoning Clearance.

If you have questions, contact the Planning Division Public Counter at plan.counter@venturacounty.gov or call (805) 654-2488.