Gazebos are an exceptional addition to any garden space. From providing shade to a calming outdoor space, the structures offer several uses.
Aside from that, you might wonder, “Are gazebos considered permanent structures?” Well, it depends. Some gazebos can be permanent installations. Those are usually anchored to your property space and are large in dimension.
Meanwhile, other gazebos, like portable or smaller-sized options, are temporary structures.
Stick around to learn more about permanent gazebos, as well as their permit requirements and other approval processes required.
What Is a Permanent Gazebo?
Permanent gazebos are structures usually built commercially or for your garden space to withstand harsh elements.
As their name suggests, permanent gazebos are meant to be permanently situated in a designated area.
Manufacturers often produce these sturdy structures using wood, durable plastic, steel, aluminum, concrete, or composite material.
When building the permanent gazebo, you’ll need to anchor it securely so it can remain erect, despite strong winds and rainy weather.
What Makes a Gazebo Permanent?
Lots of factors can determine if a gazebo is permanent. From the structure’s size and mobility to its foundation and materials, here’s what to consider.
Portability
If you can assemble and disassemble the gazebo, it’s likely not a permanent structure. These pop-up options are more common for commercial use.
Size
The larger the gazebo is, the more likely it’s considered a permanent structure. Consider this: If it takes up more than 120 square feet, you’ll be entering permit requirement territory.
Construction
Wood and other durable materials used during construction usually signify a structure meant to last for the long run.
In contrast, if your gazebo is made of lightweight materials, it’ll likely fly off the ground during unstable weather or won’t withstand heavy rain.
Base
Look at the foot of your gazebo. If it’s secured with concrete, there’s no turning back, unless you grab a hammer and go at it.
Plus, if it’s nailed to the ground, chances are, it’s not coming off. Meanwhile, if there’s no foundation, flooring, or anchoring, your gazebo is likely there temporarily.
Zoning Law
Zoning regulation is another differentiator between temporary and permanent gazebos.
A permanent construction will need approvals and permits from HOAs and the local government office. Temporary gazebos won’t need you to go through this legal process.
Is a Gazebo Considered a Building?
Gazebos aren’t considered buildings. Several government offices categorize permanent gazebos as an accessory structure, like detached garages or outdoor sheds.
While they do have a roof and, in some instances, a floor, they don’t have walls to categorize them as buildings.
Do You Need a Permit for a Gazebo?
Local building codes stipulate that you need a permit before you can build a gazebo, particularly if it’s a permanent structure or exceeds certain size dimensions.
Permits are necessary because they ensure compliance with the area’s building codes.
Now, permit qualifications for gazebos rely on various factors. Here are some considerations to note:
Size
Your state will likely have particular requirements for a gazebo’s size limit. For example, in Florida, your gazebo can’t have more than 10 poles and exceed 10 feet in height.
These limitations are made so that large structures meet zoning standards in each state.
Purpose
States or regions tend to differentiate their requirements between gazebos intended for commercial or personal use. You might want to install a gazebo for a business event or expo.
Subsequently, some regions require you to have additional permits that ensure your structure complies with accessibility, zoning, and safety standards.
After all, you’ll likely be placing it in a public area rather than your secluded property.
Placement
In terms of placement, your gazebo can’t surpass a certain distance from your property lines or other buildings. Your local office determines that limit.
Its purpose is to make sure the region isn’t overcrowded. Plus, it ensures your privacy and safety.
Disturbances
The process of building a permanent gazebo may cause disturbances to your neighborhood. For this reason, these disturbances will bring in the need for a permit.
It’ll help align your construction with community standards and prevent future inconveniences for your neighbors.
Type
Not all gazebos require a permit. It wouldn’t make sense to ask for a permit for your small pop-up plastic gazebo that you take out during BBQs.
Consequently, temporary structures are exempt from this government regulation. Those include gazebos made up of fabrics and vinyl or the ones you assemble and disassemble.
Portable and small-sized gazebos are also on the no-permit required list since they don’t require a foundation and are low-risk when it comes to zoning laws and regulations.
How Much Is a Permit for a Gazebo?
Gazebo permits typically run for approximately $100 to $1,000. The amount includes two inspections, a review, and the permit.
The cost varies significantly because of multiple factors. For instance, the structure’s valuation, construction, and dimensions are essential cost determinants.
In addition, your gazebo might include water and electric elements, which will need specific permits.
What States Require a Permit for a Gazebo?
Several states require a permit for a gazebo, especially if it’s a permanent structure. Some of them include:
- Florida
- New Jersey
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Texas
- Virginia
- Arizona
- Maine
- Illinois
- Montana
- Oregon
Do You Need HOA Approval for a Gazebo?
You may require approval from the Homeowner’s Association (HOA) before building a permanent gazebo.
It typically involves completing the following steps:
1 – Check HOA Regulations
If you need to know whether you require HOA approval, you need to learn its rules regarding outdoor structures.
HOAs tend to differ in opinion regarding gazebos. The guidelines present may prevent you from creating large-scale changes to the neighborhood.
Some rules even require you to ask for approval before making window installations for your screened-in porches.
2 – Ask for Approval
Once you’re aware of the rules governing gazebo requirements, you can approach the HOA for approval. All you have to do is call the board and request an application.
Upon filling out the form, you’ll notice it requires an exceptionally comprehensive overview of your gazebo project.
It’ll likely ask for the structure’s dimensions, purpose, materials needed, construction process, and other details. Some HOAs may ask for additional information, depending on each region.
3 – Wait for the HOA’s Answer
You can expect to wait around 30 days after filling out the form and submitting it. Nonetheless, some HOAs take a shorter time to give you their answer.
Check your HOA bylaws to know how long architectural reviews will typically last. You’ll be given the approval or denial via writing.
Now, if you get denied, you can alter your project. That can involve sizing down, changing the materials, or modifying the placement.
Besides that, you’ll need to consider that an HOA approval is crucial to obtain before asking for a permit.
Does a Gazebo Need Planning Permission?
In the U.S., you must obtain a building permit before building a gazebo. Meanwhile, planning permission is more commonly given in the U.K.
You can learn more about the building permit process by contacting a clerk at your local permit office. If the permit is necessary, they’ll provide you with an application form to submit.
Do You Need Planning Permission for A Wooden Gazebo?
In the U.K., you likely won’t need planning permission to build a wooden gazebo. Nevertheless, it also depends on the size of the wooden structure.
If it exceeds the specified dimensions, planning permission will be necessary. Fortunately, the process is straightforward.
You can contact the local council to request the planning permission application documents.
How High Can a Gazebo Be Without Planning Permission?
If your gazebo is over 10 to 13 feet in height from the ground level or takes up more than half your garden space, planning permission is likely necessary.
Alternatively, you won’t need planning permission if you install the gazebo less than 10 feet from the property lines.
Final Thoughts
Are gazebos considered permanent structures? In short, not all gazebos are permanent. It depends on the type you purchase.
For instance, you likely won’t need to permanently perch a commercial pop-up on the street corner.
On the other hand, if you’re nailing your wooden gazebo for the long haul, it’s considered a permanent structure.
In this instance, you’ll need to consider the permit requirements and HOA approval logistics before building the gazebo.
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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