What Permits and Permission Are Required for Detached Garages?

Adding a detached garage to your property is a wonderful way to protect a vehicle, store farm and gardening equipment, or provide protected storage for household items. Detached garages come in both single and double car sizes. And, depending on your needs, your garage can be electrified. 

But before you place your order, you'll want to do a little homework. Depending on where you live, you may need a building permit, permission from your housing association, or permission from your neighbors. 

Permits

Generally speaking, you need a building permit for permanent structures, like garages. However rules do vary from state to state and county to county. The best approach is to contact your local government and find out what’s required. An online search for "permit + detached garage + YOUR LOCATION" should turn up the information you need to move forward.  If you do need a permit, be friendly and helpful with everyone you deal with. The more engaged you are, the more likely it is that you’ll get your permit without any trouble. As you go through the process, you may be asked to present documents, such as:

Site Plan -- You may need to provide a drawing of your property that shows property lines, existing buildings and where the new garage will be sited. 

Building Plans -- You may need to provide garage plans. If you are purchasing a prefab garage, the manufacturer will be able to provide these. 

Other Information – You may be asked to provide other information, such as proof of insurance for the contractor.

Permissions

If you live in a housing development or belong to a neighborhood association, find out what rules apply to detached garages. You may need to present your plans to the board, before moving ahead with the project. Zoning laws may also require that you get permission from neighbors, if the garage is within a certain distance of the property line. 

Keep in mind that it's the homeowner’s responsibility to find out what the requirements are for permits and permissions. To avoid fines and other penalties, be sure to follow your local guidelines. 

To learn more, please contact us. We also have a resource for getting your permits. Check it out.