Example pergola plan, start to finish
4-post pergola with rafters and optional slats. This is a real output from the pergola calculator — nothing blurred, nothing withheld. Change any dimension and yours regenerates instantly. Estimates only, never a quote.
- Footprint
- 12×10 ft
- Post
- 6x6 cedar
- Height
- 8 ft
- Rafter spacing
- 16"
- Slats
- yes
- Area
- 120 sqft
Scaled diagram
Full shopping list
Posts (cedar 6x6 × 11') 4 ea × $148 | $592 |
Beams (cedar 2×10 × 12') 4 ea × $44 | $176 |
Rafters (cedar 2×8 × 12') 11 ea × $28 | $308 |
Top slats (cedar 2×2 × 8') 27 ea × $10 | $270 |
Post base brackets 4 ea × $24 | $96 |
Concrete (50lb bags) 16 bag × $7 | $104 |
Structural screws / lag bolts 3 lb × $14 | $42 |
| Incl. 10% waste ($144) | $1,588 |
Cut list
- Posts ×46x6 × 11'
- Beams ×42×10 × 14'
- Rafters ×102×8 × 12'
- Top slats ×242×2 × 8'
Permit checkpoints
- Set your state for localized rules
Permit thresholds, frost-line depth, and fence-height caps vary a lot by state. Pick your state above to tailor this checklist.
- Call 811 before digging footings
Free U.S. utility locate. Required before setting concrete post holes. Schedule 3 business days out.
- Check property line setbacks
Pergolas are structures — most cities require the same 5–10ft setbacks as sheds. Confirm before locating your corners.
- HOA / neighborhood approval
Many HOAs restrict outdoor structures. Get written approval before ordering lumber.
- Confirm the residential-accessory exemption
120 sq ft pergolas often fall under the accessory-structure exemption, but always verify — a 5-minute call to the building department.
- Required approvals to line up
• Zoning setback approval • Building permit if over 200 sqft or 10 ft tall • HOA architectural approval Call your local building department to confirm which of these apply in your jurisdiction — requirements vary city to city.
Rules vary by city and county — always confirm with your local building department. Estimates only, not a permit determination.
Plan it. Price it. Build it.
Enter your own dimensions and get this same plan for your yard — plus the build guide, permit packet and printable PDFs.
Start my pergola