Do you need to apply for development Permit for your planned spring renovation?
Introduction
In this time of the year, many home owners are getting ready for the renovation season of their respective properties. This is officially kicks off in the spring time. In this article, we will focus on the various types of structural renovations/assessment which will require development permit from the cities or counties, where the residential properties locate.
Residential Structural Renovations
The following residential structural renovations will require informing the city or the county and application for development permit.
Main floor bearing wall replacement
Opening or replacement of basement Egress window appraisal
Concrete wall foundations repairs
Deck foundation layout
Deck shelter and sunroom assessment
House extensions for an existing property
Moving of basement teleposts
Addition of new basement entrance
Garage framing and foundation appraisal (bigger than 576 square feet)
Additions of concrete swimming pool in residential properties
The above list is the most commonly known structural renovations. As a rule of thumb, you will need development permit if you plan to remove /modify/replace any of the structural components in the residential house.
Who to Consult
Home owners and construction contractors should consult structural engineers to discuss their renovation ideas and to find out the feasibility and the adequacy of these structural renovations.
For the city or county to approve the development permit, structural engineering drawings and/or reports will be required to be included in the permit. The reason behind that is to make sure that the prospective renovation had been assessed by a professional engineer and he provided the required recommendations to the contractors.
Moreover, the home owners and construction should get in touch with their local municipalities to be aware about the required and proper documentation required to apply for developing permit.