Many people wonder if they would need planning permission to erect a pre-engineered steel building. Well, the majority of local building authorities will need it for any new construction or renovation project. However, there are areas where a building permit may not be required for steel farm buildings or those used as a storage unit.
SummaryYou are responsible for building permitsDo your homework on zoning requirements and local metal building codesWho will give you the building permit?Requirements for obtaining a permitConclusionThe rule of thumb is never to assume that you will be exempt from having a permit.
Building permits and subsequent inspections ensure that you are not surprised by substandard construction. Thus, the building authority in your area ensures that the metal building is code compliant, safe and insurable.
In most cases, unless otherwise stated, the responsibility for ensuring that you have all required building permits lies squarely with you. Regardless of what the structure is intended for, meeting all requirements is your job.
The local board sets zoning ordinances. The goal is to protect everyone in the area and their best interests. After all, no one wants a noisy manufacturing plant in a residential neighborhood.
Moreover, the authority is there to ensure that the appearance is uniform throughout the city. This is why a part of town that is zoned for commercial businesses has different requirements for things like colors, facades, square footage, etc.
Now, before choosing any type of prefabricated metal structure, start by making an appointment with the local building authority. This will help you know if it is appropriate based on current zoning restrictions. Plus, it will help you keep up to date with the latest building codes and other related regulations, which you may not have originally considered.
You will want to start with a call to the local building authority. You should be able to find their number online or in a phone book.
First, ask if your property is under their jurisdiction. Next, you'll want to provide them with the exact location and description of the property based on what's on the deed.
Now, some areas may fall under the jurisdiction of the city building department, while others may fall under the county building department. So you definitely don't want to waste time asking questions if you're talking to the wrong body.
Once it has been established that the general plans comply with the latest zoning ordinances, the next step is to apply for a permit. Additionally, there will be a fee for processing the application.
The process involves the authority reviewing the building plans. They will look at several factors, such as square footage, height, width, electrical wiring, resistance, etc.
In general, the larger your metal building and the more people working inside, the stricter the rating will be. If it is a relatively small structure, a permit may not even be necessary in some cases. However, do not begin construction or plan any installation until you have a permit.
You will also want pipes and utility lines to be marked before the building is installed. Additionally, building authority officials may want to review third party certified plans for the foundation and building. But that shouldn't be a problem if you use one of our prefabricated metal buildings.
Always buy your prefab building from an experienced and credible manufacturer. When you do this you are covered in many ways, especially when it comes to providing the specifications required for planning permission.
See also:How to Choose the Best Builder's Risk Insurance for Your Construction Site
