An entrance canopy is a permanently installed roof, or other shelter which extends from the facade over the pedestrian entrance area of a building or structure without forming an enclosed space. It may be supported by posts, or it can be cantilevered or suspended from the wall over the entrance. Its purpose is generally to protect persons entering the place from falling rain, snow, or ice, thus providing a safe and comfortable transition between indoors and outdoors.

If the shelter covers a raised platform in front of the entrance, with enough room to set up chairs or other furniture, then it should be classified as a porch.

The permanent covering shelters the pedestrian entrance without creating an enclosed room. A porte-cochere extends shelter over a driveway, while an awning has the retractable, light roof construction defined for that feature.