Zoning and Permit Problems
In many areas failure to comply with zoning, permits and local building codes can mean closing down of the project, stopping of any funds advanced from loans and worse, being required to tear out any work done without permits no matter how legal. To put it another way this means that local authorities can and do make people tear down unauthorized work. Make sure that you, your general contractor and your subs are aware of all necessary permits and permissions and that they are applied for and received prior to construction.
If you are requesting a zoning change you may have to plead your cause before a zoning board composed of experts, officials and fellow citizens, often your neighbors. Make yourself aware of the underlying reasons for the codes and try to tailor your changes to represent an acceptable variation rather than a massive departure from the norm. This may mean making your kitchen addition an extension of your Victorian style home rather than the deconstructionist post-modern cube you’ve dreamt of.
Bring expert supporters and support materials to the zoning meeting with you. These include your designer or architect and general contractor and any drawings, plans or models you may have. Anything you can do to show sensitivity, dedication and something easily grasped by the group will help your cause. If turned down ask what changes would be acceptable and try again.
