Can I frame a space in the yard without taking out the grass

You could,however the grass if left will still draw insects.Remove or use a outdoor mat to cover the grass and spray for insects.

Anything is possible but how do you plan to maintain that portion of lawn in your screened in area? Will the lawn be in a constantly shaded area? I guess if you know how to deal with those two questions, you can move ahead with your plans.

Maybe you mean to extend the whole patio area to part of the grassy area, build a concrete or wood floor, and screen in the whole larger patio space. First, will your city or county’s planning commission, building codes, utility departments, etc., allow it? Then, if you don’t start with a really level space, achieved by digging out the grass, your concrete may not settle correctly and may not connect properly with the rest of the patio. Next, even if you plan on a wood deck, you need foundation posts set in concrete, plus the wooden framework has to be perfectly level or the floor will tilt. If you plan on doing the work yourself, I believe you can find a way to meet all the requirements, including digging up the grass if that is necessary. Best wishes 😇

bugs, if you do it that way, the bugs can always come in the bottom, where there is no floor, or protection, under the walls. If you still do this, I would spray, under the walls, and spray at the base of the walls. Or, you can plant Mary Golds, for this will really keep the bugs away, and so will Geraniums. If you try the last one, you can in the fall, cut this down, and put it in a brown paper bag, and put this in a dark basement, or closet, and use it again in the spring. Tho remember, do not put this out too early, for it will have to adjust to a diff temp. This plant should last you for many, many years. If you succeed with this, then you can get a diff. color, for next yr. If you keep it by the back door, or front door, this will prevent bugs from coming into your home. J.

You will have to have footings to tie your framework into. There is several different ways to achieve this though. Have you thought of getting one of those screenhouse type gazebos? That would be far easier and in the end probably cheaper also.

That is great. Take care, and be alert of storms, and high winds in FL. Nice chatting with you, J.

Thank you all for the answers...will keep all of it in mind, also thank you for the tips on plants to repel bugs.

You guys rock!