Building your own pergola is a project many do-it-yourselfers can do themselves. This project can be built without plans. But to eliminate all the guess work, trying to design it yourself, you should look for step by step plans with illustrations, and a material list. There are many sites that offer free plans. If you can’t find what you need with free ones, consider buying some, most are very affordable and they will eliminate a lot of work.
Plans will come with a material list, and this is a great way to estimate what the project will cost before you build. Of course, building it yourself will save you money, but is it possible to do it yourself? If you are capable of using a jigsaw, more than likely, yes. It is not a complicated structure. Square and rectangle designs are the easiest to build. This project can be done in one or two weekends. With the help of some friends this can be a fun weekend project.
Where do you begin? The first thing to do is to find out of any requirements by visiting or calling the building department. If digging will be involved, call the utility department to find out if there is any power, water, or electrical lines that might get damaged while digging. Once you have found the spot to build, measure and find the appropriate plans. Study the plans, and material list, make sure you understand the process of building it. Study the material list and all the cuts you will be making. Once you get familiar with the design, and the building steps, you are ready to begin.
If you feel this project is beyond your carpentry skills, consider hiring a contractor. Once you have the plans you like, and the material, you can show them to different contractors to get some bids for the project
Every city has different laws when building new structures. Make sure you check with your local building department before beginning any constructions. You might need a permit, you might not, check your zoning regulations for any requirements.
Do your research when choosing the lumber. Pressure treated wood is great to prevent rot and decay. Cedar and redwood is another good choice, it is more expensive, but it is nicer and it will last for many years.
If any digging is required, make sure to take caution with any water, telephone, or electrical lines that might be underground. Find out the locations of these lines to avoid any problems, or injury.
Save money by building it yourself. If you are thinking of building just a basic design, such as a square or rectangle shape, you should consider building it yourself. This design is very basic and simple to build. The best way to do this is getting some plans. You can search for free plans, or you can buy some.
If one of the main reasons to having a pergola is to entertain, make sure you build it big enough to accommodate people comfortably.
Adding a pergola will not only make a great focal point, it will add value to your property, making this project a great investment.
If you are in the early planning stages of erecting garden building on the grounds of your residence then you need to pay close attention to the regulations that are set in place concerning them. Now the good news is that they are really quite few, and are also quite simple to understand. As you read what I have listed here, do keep in mind that these regulations really only deal with the circumstances surround a “basic”, no frills installation. What I mean by that is if you for instance plan on hooking up to sewer line for a small kitchen, or lavatory as an example, you can rest assured that there is some inspection and clearance process for that. Also October of 2008 saw some new rules and regulations regarding garden buildings that you need to be aware of. The reason that I make this point, is because some of the information that is available online was published prior to that date and doesn’t include them, so be aware of that fact as you go about your research. 
Before you order your do-it-yourself home solar energy system and start building your own solar panels, you might want to save yourself a big headache (and several thousand dollars) by looking into your local zoning. If you live on acreage in an unincorporated area, you might still be subject to some state restrictions. So it is always wise do ask some questions and do some research at the beginning of your project’s planning process (instead of waiting until the money has been spent!).