I'm in the very early planning phase of building either a deck and pergola, or expanding the patio (cement) with a pergola. I will build it myself (and live in town/CS). Are there College Station building codes (and inspectors) for decks and pergolas that I will need to adhere to? If you have experience with this, I'd appreciate the input.

Someone told me that I will need to get a building permit from the city to do this. Haven't confirmed whether this is true or not.

Thanks in advance.

http://www.cstx.gov/index.aspx?page=974

There is some stuff related to buildings (sheds, playhouses, etc) and there is a clause related to patios. It does mention that a homeowner can file for a permit without being a contractor.

The only thing I saw related to items that don't need a permit related to replacing fuses for electrical issues and building fences.

If you have a HOA they'll likely want to get in your business too.

Thanks for the feedback. TKDMom, I had seen that list of codes on that web page, but it was too much legal ease for me to read through and decipher.

I did call my HOA today. Lady there told me I'll need to submit some info to them to get approval on, but she said she hasn't heard of anyone ever following any building code, or getting a permit on a deck/patio or pergola.

There are a lot of hard-working people who spend years learning that legalese--which is largely meant to prevent injury those who may dwell or visit in a given structure, now or in the foreseeable future.

Don't forget the power and/or lights & fans that are generally wanted in improved outdoor living areas. This can require a permit as well.

Even if all you add is LV lighting, it's still good to work out where the cabling and transformer go, and how it will be switched.