Italian law restricts pergola installations to protect neighbor views

Legal rulings and the Italian Civil Code establish strict limitations on installing structures like pergotende (pergola tents) in condominium settings, particularly regarding the rights of neighbors. Under Article 907 of the Civil Code, property owners possess the right to a vertical view, known as 'veduta in appiombo,' which extends from their openings down to the base of the building.

To protect this right, there is an absolute prohibition on constructing any structure within three meters of these direct, oblique, or vertical views. A ruling by the Court of Rome highlighted that the right to cover a parking space cannot infringe upon a neighbor's right to a view or compromise building security. Violations can lead to the mandatory removal of the structure and the payment of damages.