Are you ready to build your outdoor kitchen? There’s a lot to consider when building it from the materials used to code requirements and permits.

While the materials and design are up to you, it’s vital to ensure you have the proper permits and follow code requirements. You don’t want your effort to go to waste. Even more important, you want to build an outdoor kitchen that is safe for your friends, family, and guests.

You might be wondering: do you need a permit for an outdoor kitchen?

In most cases, you don’t need a permit for an outdoor kitchen. Major electrical and plumbing work will require a permit. Some small electrical and plumbing projects may not require a permit, but it depends on your location.

Hire a professional for electrical and plumbing work. They will know what permits are required, if any. They can also inform you about other code requirements.

If you are living in a community with a homeowner’s association (HOA), you will likely need approval before building any additions to your home. Most outdoor kitchen and patio designs should not need approval. But, always check with your HOA before building, though.

If you want to obtain a permit yourself, contact your local government officials. You can also go to their website to learn more. Keep in mind that code requirements vary by area.

If you are digging into the ground to construct your outdoor kitchen, you need to get utility lines marked first. This is quite rare but it’s incredibly important to know if you need to dig for any reason. 

Just call 411 and they will come out (usually within 48 hours) and mark where all the gas, electric, water, and cable lines are for you.

What is necessary for an outdoor kitchen?

You can have a functional outdoor kitchen with just a grill depending on your needs. Other popular additions include a vent hood, sink, stainless steel cabinets, a refrigerator, and a side burner. 

Learn about everything you might need in your outdoor kitchen in our complete guide here.

If you have guests, you may want some outdoor furniture. If you live in a cool climate or want protection from the sun, an outdoor cover is a great option.

Does an outdoor kitchen add value to your home?

An outdoor kitchen can add value to your home, but you won’t get back all the money you spent on it. It adds great curb appeal to your home and can be incredibly practical. If you use your outdoor kitchen often, you can get a lot of value from it. We answer this question in depth in this post.

Do outdoor kitchens need to be under a cover?

Not all outdoor kitchens need an outdoor cover. But it is a worthwhile investment to protect your kitchen from harsh weather and give guests some nice shade. If you don’t use your outdoor kitchen for most of the year, an outdoor cover will help keep your kitchen in good condition.

For extra protection during the offseason, invest in a grill cover or other appliance covers.

Check out our complete article Does an outdoor kitchen need to be covered? to learn more. Or learn more about the different types of patio covers and their pros and cons in this post.

How do you weatherproof an outdoor kitchen?

To weatherproof an outdoor kitchen, consider the following.

• Invest in weather-resistant outdoor flooring like porcelain, composite decking, concrete pavers, or stone pavers.
• Invest in outdoor-rated appliances. Look for appliances manufactured in 304 stainless steel.
• If you’re using wood, make sure it’s pressure-treated wood. Reseal it every two to three years.
• Invest in weather-resistant countertops like concrete, stone, or granite.

Keep in mind that no outdoor kitchen can be completely weatherproof. But if you buy the right materials, your outdoor kitchen and its furnishings should last decades.

Can you put a BBQ under a pergola?

You can put a gas grill under a pergola. There are no specific code requirements, but a good rule of thumb is to keep your barbecue about 10 feet away from your home. Avoid installing your grill near wooden structures or combustible materials. A high ceiling of about eight to 10 feet is the safest option.

Every grill is different so consult the manufacturer’s instructions. If the manufacturer does not recommend installing the grill under a pergola under any circumstances, do not proceed with the installation. You may void the warranty. You can call the manufacturer for clarification too.

It’s not recommended to put a charcoal grill under a pergola or other outdoor cover. The heat is unregulated so you’re at a greater risk of causing a fire.

Hopefully this post helped you as you get started on your outdoor kitchen. You shouldn’t need a permit in most cases. But it doesn’t hurt to check with a professional, especially if you’re getting electrical or plumbing work done.

Good luck with your outdoor kitchen project!

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