How does one get planning permission to buy a property then knock it down and rebuild a new house?

Question

There is this bungalow for sale with near me. It is in a prime location and come with a substantial plot of land. But the building is hideous 80's bad council design.

It has been on the market for 18 months..

I would like to buy the property for the land knock it down and build my dream home.

How can I be sure that I would get permission before I purchase.

Would be grateful for any advice!

Answer 1

Check the building commissioner in your area and ask them the questions that you are concerned about.

Also, if you buy the home with the land completely out and you are the deed holder then you can tare whatever you want down and do what you want with it. The building commissioner will help you understand what all you will need to do in getting what license is recommended in having such done.

Answer 2

(UK) You can NEVER guarantee planning permission, however straight forward the proposal.  In principle a knock down and re-build are normally acceptable, although can depend on so many factors, so never take anything for granted.  I am a Chartered Town Planner with my own consultancy, advising clients on matters such as this.  If you need any assistance please let me know. [e-mail]

Answer 3

(UK) Put applications in, one for demo and one for building - you can apply for planning permission on any land, regardless of whether you own it or not. Or just make enquiries at the planning dept. beforehand, there may be restrictions on the land,that would stop you before you even consider buying it.Talk to the planning dept. they are there to help - even if dpp is refused, always ask what you can do to make the plans more acceptable, sometimes it can be very minor issues that result in refusals, but if you remain polite and reasonable you can resolve them with a compromise that will suit both you and the planners....... they don't bite! talk to them.

Answer 4

Go to the planning department that has jurisdiction over the parcel and talk to them.

If it's been on the market that long there are probably some hidden problems with the parcel.  Could be environmental, tax liens, even something like landmark protection.

If there aren't problems the planning people can direct you through the process.

Answer 5

I'm sure you could do this and you will be working with the local building authorities--planning, inspection, taxes, etc. You may be restricted by local building and planning codes, and city zoning measures, PUD restrictions, etc. All the things the fine folks in city hall are paid to create and enforce. It's wise to find out what those restrictions are before you purchase the lot.

There's no permission BEFORE you buy, of course.

Here's my one bit of advice: When you reveal your plans (architect's drawings) do not, under any circumstances, argue and insult the head of the planning commission.

My wife did that and it took me another year to get the thing passed. We eventually were able to build that dream home. Who knows? With so many baby boomers retiring, the planning commission staff might change a LOT during your quest.

Answer 6

I don’t think you can because you likely couldn’t submit design plans to your local planning and zoning committee until you own it. Although, you could certain call them and ask if it’s possible.

As a second option, you could begin gathering info on local building ordinances. If you submit designs within the bounds of what’s allowed, you reduce the changes your plans wouldn’t be approved.

Answer 7

You would need to go to the building division of your town.  There you can acquire the plot of the land, and possibly the design.  These are all a matter of public record.  If you live in the US, there are national database registries throughout the US where you can get the "specs" of the property.  Do all of your homework first.  Is the house in foreclosure or bank owned?  That can make a tremendous difference on working either with the owner or the bank on a reasonable sales price.

You will then know what the interior design is.  Once you purchase the property, you would submit your proposal to the building department along with your drafts of what you would like for the property.  Some times, if you retain at least ONE wall of the original structure, then the town will have no choice but to agree with your drawings.

There is a lot more information out there, I'll check back, if you are interested, maybe I could help further.  Email me if you wish.  Good luck!