4' x 8' x 6' box in the yard, but could it be called a shed?

[dbhost]

Okay here is yet another dumb idea... I have PLENTY of scrap construction lumber to build a basic 4x8 footprint, 6' tall box with a simple slant roof and a single door. I am planning on simply calling it a storage box. No foundation to speak of, but more along the lines of a tall deck box to keep the mower, weed eater, wheel barrow, etc... in.

Now would I need to present this to the HOA as it honestly is sized where I *could* slide it up into the bed of my truck and haul it off... So is that something that could possibly be considered a shed, or is that a storage box?

[poolhound]

Okay here is yet another dumb idea... I have PLENTY of scrap construction lumber to build a basic 4x8 footprint, 6' tall box with a simple slant roof and a single door. I am planning on simply calling it a storage box. No foundation to speak of, but more along the lines of a tall deck box to keep the mower, weed eater, wheel barrow, etc... in.

Now would I need to present this to the HOA as it honestly is sized where I *could* slide it up into the bed of my truck and haul it off... So is that something that could possibly be considered a shed, or is that a storage box?

Thats one of the reasons I HATE HOAs - but dont get me started

I guess it depends wether it can be seen from off your property, if not go for it.

[cabinetman]

I don't live in a HOA, but we do have code enforcement driving around just looking. Usually it's a nosey neighbor that turns in a complaint. Whether it's a storage box or a shed could be just a semantical discussion. I thought of doing something similar, but, in the end it's all what "they" want to call it.
.

[DaveS]

So, I am assuming that a "shed" would not be allowed, but a "storage box" is allowed?

I would say that a "shed" has a door on the front.

A "storage box" has a door as the lid.

[dbhost]

Nope, shed is allowed, just more B.S. to go through. Storage boxes are all over the neighborhood and nothing in the Covenants and Restrictions even mentions them.... Kind of an oversight. I would think a shed would be tall enough to stand up in. With a total overall height of 6' to the peak, and an interior height of around 5' 6" I certainly can't stand up in that.

If I keep them small and retain the ability to move them, I can put them along the back fence, where I otherwise can't build due to easement. This way I can have my storage, use otherwise wasted space, keep the wife happy, and not annoy the HOA...

[pelligrini]

Unless there is a definition of a shed in the HOA docs, it would probably be called a shed. Maybe mount some rails on the sides and say that they are handles if anyone complains.

I'd say just build it, and then deal with the HOA if they want to ***** about it. Be cafeful about ticking them off though, it can be remembered down the line with future dealings.

Whatever you do, make the lowest rafter at least a couple inches above your height. If you don't, you'll really regret it later.

[rjwaldren]

In addition to the door hinge the slant roof so it's clearly a box. Like a larger version of this rubbermaid box.

http://www.amazon.com/Rubbermaid-Hor...5796303&sr=8-3

Oop, they call it a shed!

[pelligrini]

In addition to the door hinge the slant roof so it's clearly a box.

Yea, put a shed roof on the box that's not supposed to be a shed.

Maybe big letters painted on the side "My Storage Box"

[atgcpaul]

Beyond your HOA, your city or local government might require you to apply
for a permit for this "shed". Mine does.

Here's what ours has to say:

http://permittingservices.montgomery...Guidelines.pdf

[LinuxRandal]

You would need to check with both your local codes, and have a lawyer look for (in the contract, or state law) what denotes a shed.


SInce you talked about handles, how about wheels, and make something like:

http://www.tow-n-stow.com/

[rjwaldren]

In addition to the door hinge the slant roof so it's clearly a box. Like a larger version of this rubbermaid box.

http://www.amazon.com/Rubbermaid-Hor...5796303&sr=8-3

Oop, they call it a shed!

I just reread that, it wasn't very clear - I mean hinge the top so it opens like a box. I do like to tow-n-stow idea - just bolt some 10" harbor freight wheels to the side, there's no way it could be a shed.

[just started]

Hinge the top, then hinge the side to the top so it opens like an antique car hood.

[Gator95]

If it looks nice and is in a location that doesn't look goofy, it's a storage box. If it's an ugly a$$ eyesore then it's a shed.

BTW- HOA's that are strict are great in my book. Wish ours was more active, we have some homes in our neighborhood that look like crap.

[dbhost]

Unless there is a definition of a shed in the HOA docs, it would probably be called a shed. Maybe mount some rails on the sides and say that they are handles if anyone complains.

I'd say just build it, and then deal with the HOA if they want to ***** about it. Be cafeful about ticking them off though, it can be remembered down the line with future dealings.

Whatever you do, make the lowest rafter at least a couple inches above your height. If you don't, you'll really regret it later.

Actually, the intent is as an overgrown box. I should have specified. Yes, hinged top. I have some sketches down and am going to work it up in Sketchup. I am talking to the HOA about it, and it sounds like they are cool with it. The city might be a different story...

[dbhost]

Hinge the top, then hinge the side to the top so it opens like an antique car hood.

Wish it was in sketchup already...

It's going to be hinged at the top, on the short side opposite the door, the doors will swing to the side... Kind of like a late 90's Chevy Astro van rear dutch door arrangement...