Shade structures help maximize your time outside

Sunny, warm weather means more time outside in your yard.

You may be thinking about all the ways to maximize your time outside while staying cool in the shade. If you are thinking about installing a shade structure to help you enjoy sunny weather while having a place to cool off, remember to first consult the Village-wide criteria on Shade Structures on Montgomery Village Foundation’s (MVF) here. You want to be sure the shade structure you envision for your outdoor oasis is in harmony with the aesthetics of your home and community. Once you have reviewed the criteria, your next step is to complete a Property Improvement Request (PIR) form and apply to MVF. You may find the PIR here. 

Examples of shade structures include canopies, gazebos, large Sunbrellas and pergolas. Below are some guidelines to keep in mind when selecting the shade structure for your home. View the Shade Structure Criteria for all guidelines.

Any shade structure (permanent or temporary) requires prior approval. Decisions are made based on the type of house and the location, size, materials and color of the structure.

• Only one shade structure will be considered per home, and it must always be maintained and in good condition.
• Freestanding shade structures are permitted year-round in rear yards of single-family detached houses, rear yards of townhouses and rear yards of zero-lot-line houses. They are permitted in enclosed yards of back-to-back and four-plex houses on a seasonal basis between the months of April and October.
• If the shade structure has a separate fabric cover, only cloth fabric in neutral colors will be permitted.

If you are unsure whether your chosen structure complies with the Village-wide criteria, reach out to the Architectural Standards Department at 240-243-2364 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further assistance. And, don’t forget to apply at www.montgomeryvillage.com/pir and wait for your decision before making any purchases. Apply before you buy!