Single Family Residential Enclosing Existing Patio Covers
2
General Notes
1. This submittal would enclose an existing code compliant and previously permitted patio cover
with new walls of glass, framing, or other approved materials, to create a new non-heated,
non-habitable enclosed patio
2.
Under Appendix H of the 2015 IRC, Patio Cover enclosure walls may have any configuration,
provided the open or glazed area of the longer wall and one additional wall is at least 65% of the
area below a minimum of 6 feet 8 inches of each wall, measured from the floor
3.
Note that all existing house windows and doors must remain in place. Heated areas and
habitable rooms shall be submitted as a residential addition. Check with your local building
department for specific design and submittal requirements.
4.
The new room shall not block required egress from any area and shall not reduce any required
natural light and ventilation.
5.
Garage walls, doors, and windows that previously had an exterior exposure but are now within
the enclosure shall be modified to meet required fire rated separation requirements.
6. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed throughout the residence in
compliance with IRC R314 and R315. Wireless alarms are acceptable
7. Various ICC-ES Patio Cover Reports prohibit enclosure.
8. Contact your local Building Department regarding electrical wiring requirements and applicable
codes.
9. Provide gutters and downspouts with adequate drainage away from the structure.
Minimum Submittal Documents
• A completed permit application.
• Plot plans (site plan) showing the location of the structure to be enclosed, its relationship to
existing buildings or structures on the property, and the distance to all property lines.
•
A complete set of construction documents, clearly indicating all components and how they are to
be anchored to one another, to the slab / foundation, to the roof, and to the dwelling.
•
A floor plan view of all room uses within the dwelling that are directly adjacent to the new patio
enclosure. Include any existing windows wells (from the basement) that would now be within the
enclosure. See sample drawing on page 4
• Details regarding how the new walls / glazing shall be protected from any potential slab
movement due to frost and expansive soils.
Submittal Documents that may be Required by Local Jurisdiction
• Engineered stamped construction drawings listing wind and snow loading.
• Engineered stamped foundation plans for the support of all walls / columns
• Frost protected foundation systems, or protection of existing slabs
• A current ICC-ES or other approved inspection / design report for proprietary wall component
systems or assemblies.
• Provide an electrical plan indicating locations of outlets, lights and switches.
• Stamped engineering for any special construction details, including anchoring the new roof
assembly to existing rafter tails, or alternate methods or materials
• Clarification of the type and location of lateral (wind) bracing, wall to foundation bolting, etc
This handout was developed by the Colorado Chapter of the
International Code Council as a basic plan submittal under
the 2015 International Residential Code. It is not intended
to cover all circumstances. Check with your Department
of Building Safety for additional requirements.
