Protection that pays for itself
Geneva’s weather is hard on vehicles. Summer hailstorms can dent bodywork in minutes; winter frost coats windscreens every morning; UV exposure fades paintwork over the years. A carport eliminates these headaches at a fraction of the cost of a full garage. Mon-paysagiste.ch, the landscaping branch of PluriServices Sarl, designs and builds custom car shelters that protect your vehicle, enhance your property and comply with local building regulations.
Carport configurations we build
Lean-to carports attach to an existing wall of your house, sharing its structure for stability. They are space-efficient, visually integrated and often the simplest option from a planning perspective.
Freestanding carports stand independently anywhere on your property. They offer maximum placement flexibility and can double as a covered entertaining area when the car is elsewhere.
Single shelters (approximately 3 x 5 m) protect one vehicle. Double shelters (approximately 6 x 5 m) accommodate two cars or one car plus generous storage for bicycles, garden equipment or firewood.
Carports with an integrated storage unit combine open vehicle shelter with an enclosed side room — practical for tools, bins or sports gear.
Solar carports feature a photovoltaic roof that generates electricity for your home or electric vehicle charger. Cantonal subsidies in Geneva can offset a significant portion of the additional investment.
We work in Swiss-grown larch, Douglas fir and spruce for a natural look, or in aluminium and galvanised steel for a modern, maintenance-free finish.
Building permits and Geneva regulations
In Geneva canton, a carport is classified as a construction and almost always requires a building permit (autorisation de construire). Key regulatory points to be aware of:
- Boundary setbacks: minimum distances from property boundaries are defined by your commune’s building regulations, typically 3 to 5 metres for constructions
- Footprint limits: the total built area on your plot (including the carport) must remain within the maximum occupancy ratio set by your zone plan
- Snow load compliance: structures must be engineered according to SIA 261 norms. In the Geneva basin (altitude below 500 m), the reference snow load is approximately 100 kg/m², but exposed locations may require higher ratings
- Solar panel integration: adding photovoltaic panels may qualify for cantonal energy subsidies through the Programme Bâtiments and SIG’s éco21 programme. We advise on eligibility during the design phase
Mon-paysagiste.ch prepares the full permit application — plans, calculations and administrative forms — and follows up with your commune’s building office until approval is obtained.
Why choose Mon-paysagiste.ch
We are not a kit-assembly service. Every carport we build is engineered for its specific location, taking into account SIA 261 snow loads (up to 400 kg/m2 depending on altitude), prevailing wind direction and the architectural style of your home.
As part of PluriServices Sarl, we coordinate the full scope of related work: driveway paving, entrance gates, drainage, electrical connections for lighting or EV charging and post-construction clean-up. One team, one timeline, one invoice.
We respond to every enquiry within 24 hours. The on-site survey and quote are free.
Roofing options and materials
The roof is the most critical component of any carport. We offer several options suited to Geneva’s climate:
- Polycarbonate panels: lightweight, UV-resistant and available in clear or tinted finishes. They allow natural light through while providing rain and hail protection. Suitable for lean-to and standard freestanding carports
- Steel or aluminium sheeting: durable, low-maintenance and available with colour-coated finishes. Provides complete shade and excellent hail protection
- EPDM flat roofing: a synthetic rubber membrane ideal for flat-topped carports. Highly resistant to UV and temperature extremes, with a lifespan of 30+ years
- Photovoltaic panels: monocrystalline solar panels serve as both roof covering and electricity generator. A typical double carport (30 m²) can host 5–6 kWp of solar capacity, generating approximately 5,500–6,500 kWh per year in Geneva’s conditions
Rainwater from the carport roof is directed through gutters to a downpipe connected to the drainage system or, optionally, to a rainwater collection tank for garden irrigation.
How the project runs
1. Share your requirements — Tell us the carport type, number of vehicles, preferred material, approximate footprint and any extras (solar panels, lighting, side panels). A photo of the planned location helps us prepare.
2. Free site visit and quote — Our specialist assesses your terrain, discusses design options and delivers a clear, itemised quote covering materials, foundations, labour and permit costs — no obligation.
3. Construction — We handle everything from concrete footings to roofing and rainwater drainage, finishing on schedule with a thorough site clean-up.
Indicative pricing
| Carport type | Approximate cost (CHF, supplied and installed) |
|---|---|
| Single timber carport (1 vehicle) | 4,000 — 9,000 |
| Double timber carport (2 vehicles) | 7,000 — 15,000 |
| Single aluminium carport | 5,500 — 11,000 |
| Double aluminium carport | 9,000 — 19,000 |
| Carport with integrated storage | 8,000 — 22,000 |
| Solar carport with photovoltaic roof | 12,000 — 30,000 |
Prices include supply, installation and standard foundations. Earthworks, electrical connections, building permit fees and driveway surfacing beneath the carport are quoted separately.
Frequently asked questions
Does a carport require a building permit in Geneva?
In Geneva canton, yes. A carport modifies the external appearance and built footprint of your property, which triggers the permit process. Some communes accept a simplified works notification for smaller structures. Mon-paysagiste.ch handles the application and follows up with the planning office on your behalf.
Wood or aluminium — which is the better choice?
Both are excellent. Timber (larch or Douglas fir) offers natural warmth and suits traditional or countryside settings; it needs a protective stain or oil every three to five years. Aluminium is virtually maintenance-free, resists corrosion and fits contemporary architecture. Your budget, aesthetic preference and willingness to maintain the structure should guide the decision.
Can I add solar panels to the roof?
Yes, and it is an increasingly popular option in Geneva. The carport roof is an ideal surface for photovoltaic panels, generating electricity for your household or an EV charger. The higher upfront cost is offset by energy savings and potential cantonal subsidies through programmes supporting renewable energy.
How long does construction take?
The on-site build typically takes 3 to 5 working days. Custom manufacturing of the structure takes 2 to 6 weeks beforehand, and building permit approval in Geneva canton ranges from 4 to 12 weeks. We recommend starting the planning process early to avoid delays.
How long will a carport last?
A well-built carport lasts 25 to 35 years or more. Aluminium structures require almost no maintenance. Timber carports benefit from a protective treatment every few years but are equally durable when cared for. The quality of foundations and roofing is the single biggest factor in long-term performance.
Can the carport include an EV charging station?
Yes, and this is an increasingly common request in Geneva. We pre-wire the structure during construction so an EV wallbox charger (from brands like ABB, Easee or Zaptec) can be installed immediately or added later. Combined with a solar carport roof, you can charge your vehicle with self-generated electricity — a setup that benefits from both cantonal energy subsidies and reduced SIG electricity bills.
Why choose Mon-paysagiste.ch for your carport
- Custom engineering — every carport is calculated for its specific location, including SIA 261 snow loads, wind exposure and your home’s architectural style
- Full permit management — we prepare and submit the Geneva building permit application and follow up until approval is granted
- Coordinated projects — as part of PluriServices Sàrl, we combine the carport with driveway paving, entrance gates, drainage and electrical connections in a single contract
- Solar expertise — we design photovoltaic carport roofs and advise on cantonal energy subsidies to maximise your return on investment