Metal Utility Carports in Northern California

Yes, in most California jurisdictions, a building permit is required for any permanent structure. Norcal Carports provides engineered drawings specifically designed to meet your local county's requirements, including snow load and wind speed specs, which helps speed up the approval process.

We generally recommend a minimum width of 12ft-14ft and a height at least 2ft taller than your RV's highest point (including AC units). For standard motorhomes, a 14' to 16' height is common. Always measure your RV with all slides out to ensure internal clearance if you plan on using it while covered.

Regular roofs use horizontal panels with rounded corners (most economical). Boxed Eave looks like a traditional house roof with horizontal panels. Vertical roofs run the ridges from the peak to the eaves, allowing snow and debris to slide off easily. We highly recommend Vertical roofs for any building over 24' wide or in snow-prone areas.

14-gauge is the industry standard (2 ½" x 2 ½" frame). 12-gauge is thicker and stronger (2 ¼" x 2 ¼" frame), offering a higher tensile strength and a longer warranty. If you live in an area with high winds or heavy snow, 12-gauge is the superior choice for structural integrity.

Your site must be level to within 3 inches across the entire footprint. We recommend a concrete slab, but we can install on asphalt or level ground with appropriate anchors. Ensure there are no underground utilities (like gas or water lines) in the area, and clear a 3ft perimeter around the site for our crews to work.

We offer over 12 premium color options for the roof, trim, and sides. You can mix and match to complement your existing home or outbuildings. Our coatings are designed for high UV resistance to prevent fading in the California sun.