Government permit fees
Hillsborough County publishes its current permit fee schedules at hcfl.gov. Ask your contractor to list government fees separately from design and permit-handling charges.
Confirm the jurisdiction and project category
Have the contractor confirm the permitting authority for your parcel and the checklist that fits the proposed work. Attached roofs, detached structures and changes to existing enclosures may follow different review paths.
Do not assume an open roof or a kit is exempt. Ask the county to resolve exemption questions before construction. Start with the county's [residential permit checklists](https://hcfl.gov/businesses/hillsgovhub/residential-and-mobile-home-checklists).
Prepare the site information and plans
The county's accessory structure checklist calls for a scaled site plan showing structures, property boundaries, setbacks, easements and environmentally sensitive areas. It also describes acceptable building plans and flood hazard review. Confirm which documents apply to your design in the [accessory structure requirements](https://hcfl.gov/businesses/hillsgovhub/residential-and-mobile-home-checklists/residential-accessory-structure-requirements).
Ask the contractor who prepares and submits each document. Resolve uncertainty about the existing slab or house attachment before accepting a final design.
Address wind loads in the proposed assembly
Florida Building Code wind requirements depend on location and risk category. Confirm the applicable requirements with the local building official, as described in the state's [building code guidance](https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/building-codes-and-standards/faqs/).
Ask how the plans address roof uplift, connections, posts and foundations. Request operating instructions for movable louvers or removable components. Code compliance does not promise that a structure will escape hurricane damage.
Keep property restrictions and HOA review in view
If your property has an HOA, ask what exterior alteration approval is needed before committing to a design. Check proposed roof color, height and placement against the association's documents. HOA approval does not replace a government permit.
Ask about drainage and any trees near proposed foundations. The county's [tree resources](https://hcfl.gov/businesses/permits-and-records/natural-resources/tree-resources) explain where to check removal requirements.
Track approval, inspections and completion
County applications and status checks use HillsGovHub. Submitting an application does not mean a permit has been issued. Follow the county's [homeowner permit guidance](https://hcfl.gov/residents/property-owners-and-renters/homeowner-permits/permits-for-homeowners) and confirm issuance before work requiring a permit begins.
Ask the contractor you choose to identify required inspections and provide the completed permit record. Keep approved plans, inspection results and warranty documents with your home records. RG Holdings provides referrals, not permit approvals or construction services.
Questions homeowners ask
Does an open pergola automatically avoid permitting?
No. Do not infer an exemption from an open roof or a product description. Confirm the proposed structure's permit requirements with the county before work begins.
Who should handle the permit?
For a hired installation, establish the contractor's permit responsibilities in the written agreement. Ask for the permit record and approval status. The referral service does not apply for or issue construction permits.
How much are permits and how long does review take?
Fees and review time depend on the application and required reviews. Ask the county about current requirements and the contractor about its submission plan. This site provides no fee or completion-time estimate.
Does HOA approval let construction start?
HOA approval and government permitting are separate. Confirm that all approvals required for the proposed work are in place before starting.
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