An automatically retractable awning includes a plurality of extendable rafter arms operatively connected at their upper ends to a vertical support surface, a lead bar connected to the lower ends of the rafter arms, a roll bar located adjacent to and operatively connected to the support surface, and an awning sheet or canopy connected at a first end to the roll bar and at a second end to the lead bar. A sensor operatively connected to at least one of the rafter arms detects pivotal movement of the rafter arm relative to the support surface and automatically commands a roll drive motor to roll the canopy about the roll bar and thus retract the awning.