Regulations Applicable to Outbuildings

Adding an outbuilding to your property is a great way to maximize space, no matter what your needs are. Some people build a beautiful shed as a library or study room. Some people have built an outbuilding specifically for gaming and parties. Others choose this space for a customized craft or hobby room. Outbuildings and sheds don’t always need to be reserved for yard care storage. It’s time to get creative! If you’d like to get started on an outbuilding on your property, it’s important to know that there are some regulations surrounding their structure. Each city is a little different, but here some of common factors they consider when approving or denying a building permit.

Permission and Permits

Regardless of what type of outbuilding you plan to do, you’ll need to discuss it with the city first. If you start building before getting permission, the city could fine you, or worse, make you take it down. Approval depends on several factors such as:

• Height (more than one level will most likely need a permit)
• Position on the property (back yard vs. front yard, close to fence line, etc.)
• Proximity to your current home’s boundaries
• If you’re going to have balconies or decks on the outbuilding
• Square footage (which is often added to your home’s square footage, which can affect property taxes)
• How much land the outbuilding will take up, adding to the current built space on your property (cities have regulations on the percentage of property that can contain a structure).

Gaining a permit can be time consuming, but it’s better to be patient and go through the approval process to ensure you’re following city codes rather than getting halfway through the build only to find out you have a violation.

To Get a Permit

To gain an outbuilding permit, you’ll first need to contact your city’s building office and provide the build design details. They will give you the appropriate application with an outline of their requirements. After completing the application, you may need to provide official blueprints or floor plans. Once you’ve supplied the details they need, the next step is to pay the required fees along with the application submission. Once approved, you should receive the permit, which you will need to display at the site during construction. The next step is to arrange for a city inspector to visit the site, if needed. Once the project is finished, you can remove the permit and enjoy your new space.

Hiring A Professional

If you are hiring a contractor, such as the expert team at Topp Remodeling and Construction, you won’t need to worry about any of the above steps. Your contractor should apply for the permit and ensure that your build is compliant with your city’s codes. You can be confident the build is allowed, eliminating the possibility of fines or demolition. Outbuildings often increase the property value of a home, which is appealing for many due to a good return on their investment. For help with a stress-free process on your outbuilding addition, contact our experts today.