Proper Zoning and Permitting
The Building Permit
Before you begin any building project you first of all need to find out if the land is properly zoned and secondly if a building permit is required. The actual building permit is nothing more than a certificate that must be secured by either the contractor or owner from the local jurisdiction before any construction of a building can commence. The actual permit has to be physically posted at the construction site until the project if finished and inspected by a local building inspector.
Does my project need one?
In some instances, buildings below 100 square feet do not require building permits. There are undoubtedly specifications and regulations affecting your project in your community. Check with your local building code office.
Applications for a Building Permit
A permit is usually best secured from your local by-law office. Employees are available to speak with if there are any concerns you have about all the requirements that need to be satisfied before a building permit can be issued. A nominal fee usually must be paid for the permit and a drawing needs to be submitted with material and elevation stipulations along with a floor plan.
Manufacturers and Suppliers can help
Most garage buildings, whether metal or wood, are generally engineered to meet or to surpass all building codes applicable anywhere in the country. A number of companies can supply you with permit drawings and/or renderings in order that your permitting process goes smoothly. Custom permit drawings, if necessary, are also available but are usually more expensive.
Changes and Problems
Most metal and wood garages are built like houses, so it’s only on rare occasions that a building inspector will insist on any modifications to the structure. Most manufacturers or suppliers, though, will be able to make the necessary changes to the building if necessary. Some will even return any and all deposits if the structure can’t be modified to meet code.
Permitting and the Refund Process
Most companies require an engineering deposit from the consumer to secure both the price and place in the production cycle. Some company’s offer a full refund if building code parameters in your area can’t be met, however, some companies do not offer this service. Know the rules before placing a deposit on any garage building. You’ll be safer in the long run.
