Permanent Structure Laws...

[rjwaldren]

Along my back shared fence line I have a 10x10 area that is covered with paving stones and a canopy. The canopy probably won't last much longer so we are looking into building a Ramada/Pergola there. The idea is to extend it to 16x10 and keep the pavers. If I sink the post does that make it permanent structure? What about if I only anchor the posts?

Though not confirmed yet, I've heard that permanent structures require a 3 foot clearance from the property line around here. The neighbor doesn't care but the top will be visible from the main street. I already have power and water there in a way the keeps it "temporary".

[dbhost]

Check with your local building code enforcement authority. Definition of temporary vs. permanent varies radically between municipalities.

[pelligrini]

There's probably two different codes to deal with. One will be your local zoning code and the other will be the building codes (more than likely the IBC & IRC International Codes). The IRC/IBC will deal with openings, proximity, and other fire related items of the structure.

If you're talking about power and water lines there's probably an easement there as well.

*edit I just noticed where you are from. I think most of California uses it's own state building code, not the I-codes. A quick anonymous call to your building official should get you squared away.

[cabinetman]

A quick anonymous call to your building official should get you squared away.

Call from a pay phone from the other side of town. Wipe all fingerprints when you're done.
.

[pelligrini]

No kidding

Sometimes a call about specifics can lead to a BO stopping by the site to check things out.

[rjwaldren]

I started some simple Google searches and doubt I'll get away with it legally. Even in some places where you can put a pergola up with out a permit, it's required once you talk about covering the top.

Round here you need a permit to change out a toilet, so I'd rather not have them around just yet. But I will give them a call, sometime when my dad drops by so I can use his cell... Now that's a house the Inspectors would pop a blood vessel over.

[BobSch]

No kidding

Sometimes a call about specifics can lead to a BO stopping by the site to check things out.

Just having a truck in the driveway can do that. Mt BIL was helping me put a storm door on out patio door when a Pinto pulled into the driveway. I walked down and the guy asked where [an address two doors down from us] was. I pointed down the street and as he was getting ready to pull out he casually asked what we were doing. Never identified himself as a city inspector, but the backseat full of blueprints pretty much blew his cover.