The addition of an outbuilding in your property is like an increase in things you can do in your place. Whether it is a pergola or carport, it is satisfying to erect an accessory structure that shelters your valuables that your home can no longer accommodate. The initial concern on this plan is you may need to seek a permit (s) before commencing the construction. Although it is a must, your structure is not required to obtain one depending on its size. 

Exemption from every rule

All local authorities typically implement rigid rules for outbuildings. Despite that, there are also exemptions from this if a structure qualifies for specified size and other factors. The thing with size specification, there is no one-size-fits-all rule for all outbuildings in various states. It is a location basis, so it is worthwhile to be hyperlocal in understanding laws. Consulting your building regulation office is likewise an excellent move, especially for complex matters. 

The know-how about local regulation is imperative because a city government may exempt a particular size of an outbuilding. However, it may be enormous for another city’s codes to exclude from getting a building permit. There is also a likelihood that a government will not exempt any accessory structures in obtaining building approval, whether it is simple or complex. 

Here are some ideas on how similar or dissimilar the rules on outbuildings: 

Floor area – In the City of Oak (Michigan), a shed for storage or utility may not need to seek a building permit. However, it must be 200 square feet less for residential and 120 square feet or below for commercial areas. Other than these specifics, a shed requires a building permit, particularly if it has utilities. In this manner, it is apparent that the authority demands inspecting plans of outbuildings like carports or garages before construction.

Roof area. In the County of San Mateo (California), an outbuilding with 8-feet or less tall and 120 or below square feet roof area is exempt in obtaining a building permit. However, this is revocable if the structure has utilities and issues with its location.     

Purpose. If you are in the City of Salem (Oregon), your vehicle storage automatically requires a permit. It is only a residential building permit-free if it is a storage or utility shed or other similar accessory structure that is not for people or wheels. Moreover, it must have an exact or less 200 square feet and 10 feet high.  

Revoked exemptions  

If you notice above, local governments grant exemptions only for getting a building permit but not for a zoning license. Most, if not all, authorities are in sync with strict implementation of zoning regulations like setbacks and lot areas to occupy. 

It also matters for some authorities when an outbuilding exceeds the required percentage per total lot area. Like for example, an accessory structure cannot occupy an equivalent space to 10% of the total floor area or if it exceeds 600 square feet in the City of Oak. In other cities, there is also a limit to the number of outbuildings to erect. Mostly, only one detached building is allowed within a property.

Aside from a zoning permit, there is also a possibility that an outbuilding needs certification environmental compliance or plumbing.