Can Utah Have Aluminum Patio Covers Engineered for Snow Loads?
Short answer: Yes—you absolutely can install aluminum patio covers in Utah that are designed (or engineered) to handle snow loads across the varied elevations of the state. Here’s how it works, what to know, and what steps to follow.
1. Minimum Snow Load Requirements in Utah
Utah’s building codes demand that patio covers be able to handle specific snow loads:
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The 2021 Utah State Building Code Appendix I mandates that patio covers must support their dead load plus a minimum of 10 psf live load (vertical).
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In Salt Lake City (and similarly elevated areas), the minimum flat roof snow load is typically 30 psf, with ground snow loads around 43 psf up to 4,500 ft elevation
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In higher elevations, the ground snow load increases—often into the 50+ psf range, depending on site specifics.
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These calculations are based on ASCE 7 procedures, which Utah follows for roof snow load determination.
2. Why Aluminum Patio Covers Are a Solid Option
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Engineered to Strength: Many modern aluminum patio covers are built and certified to handle snow loads like 30, 40, or even 80 psf.
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Custom Engineered Solutions in Utah: Our 3D Patio Designer will automatically engineer your patio cover for the snow load specified by the American Society of Civil Engineers once you put your address in!
3. Permitting and Engineering — What You Need to Do
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Determine your site’s snow load:
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Use tools such as USU snow load maps or local city design criteria (e.g., Herriman or Salt Lake City resources). Search you city-specific Building Department requirements for aluminum awnings (for example; Herriman Building Department Permit Requirements)
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Confirm ground snow load and convert to roof snow load using ASCE guidelines
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Choose or specify a product rated for that load:
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Some pre-made aluminum covers list snow load ratings (e.g., 30 lb) and may suit your site.
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Submit engineering documentation with permit application:
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Code officials often require seal-certified structural plans and, in Utah, the ICC evaluation report or engineering stamp.
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The engineering should account for snow load, wind load (typically 115 mph Exposure C in many areas), and seismic considerations (Modal D).
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Submit and install:
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Submit your documentation to the local building department.
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Once approved, proceed with installation—ensuring structural integrity and longevity.
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4. Putting It All Together
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Assess Snow Load | Confirm site-specific requirements (30 psf + or more depending on elevation) |
| Select or Engineer | Choose an aluminum cover rated properly—or custom engineer one to match load |
| Document | Get stamped structural drawings, load calculations, ICC report if needed |
| Permit and Install | Submit to AHJ, get approval, proceed with installation |
Final Thoughts
Aluminum patio covers can absolutely be used in Utah—even at snow-prone elevations—as long as they are properly engineered and certified for the local snow and wind loads. With manufacturers offering robust products and local companies ready to design to spec, you have great options to ensure safety, compliance, and durability.
Want help sourcing a local supplier or walking through permit steps in a specific city? Just let me know—I’ve got your back!
