Is there any way to skirt around building permits (loopholes, ect)?

Question

I am trying to build a music practice room in my backyard, but the max size for an unpermitted building is 10x12 which is too small. I am trying to figure out how to get around having to permit the building.

This is not a cost factor, but a time factor. If I permit it it could take months to get approved, and ther would be inspections. So, I would have to get a contactor build it for me so it's up to code. I would liekto be able to build it myself, and start right now, because since it need to be soundproof there are a lot of things that I need to do that would be against code (i.e. it would be airtight, and really thick walls, ect).

So, I want to build it myself and to my specifications. Some ways that I have thought about to get around permitting it are:

Building it 2 stories to increase floor space. I thought this was a really good idea because the 10x12 max isn't interior floorspace, but the footprint. So, two sotries would have the same footprint. But, the city has a 10 foot max height. SO, no good.

Or, I thought about building a 10x12 top structure, and a larger bottom structure underground. But, this underground structure seems like mroe trouble than it's worth, because the ground is wet here, and there would be all kinds of problems. Is there anything else I can do?

Cost is not really a factor, as much as time. Any suggestions are great. Thanks

Answer 1

so, are you saying it's against code to make a structure airtight, or with thick walls?  not sure where you live, but that would be the least of your problems.  first of all, you you have any construction skills?  if you did, you would have the skills to build it to code.  like footing size, header spans, floor support, electrical, etc, etc.  if you did try to build a two story structure, you would be turned in by a vigilant neighbor real fast.  if you're the homeowner, you can have rough plans submitted to the city with a weeks worth of research.  if you try to build it yourself with little knowledge, you will de-value your property.  if cost is not an issue, hire a contractor to draw up plans and submit it to the city.  i drew up all my own plans, and got a permit 1 hour after walking into the city offices.  

Answer 2

I think a better approach would be to rent a facility for the short term, then get the permits and follow code requirement for the new structure. Even though it would be an inconvenience, it could save you a long-term nightmare.

Answer 3

Just be careful and do everything legitimately, or you will be so so sorry when you try to sell the house.

Answer 4

If cost is not a factor, go for it with the permits needed.   The permits serve alot more of a purpose than you think.   I've mentioned it before here.  If you EVER have to file an insurance claim against your homeowners policy, the first thing they look for is permits for any home improvements that have been done.   No permits, then it is assumed that the work done was not to codes, and the insurance co. will not be covering your losses.

A hurricane blows over your studio, that has no foundation, cause "you didn't need one", and someone gets hurt, kiss your house goodbye because they'll be living in it soon.

The permits cover your *** in more ways than one!

The building inspector is going to want a plot plan that shows where the structure is going, this is to keep it from being built too close to your septic, or boundries.

If you aren't falling within boundry restrictions,  your permit will not be slowed down for hearings and the like.

And remember codes are minimums (usually), if you build it with 12" thick walls, that doesn't mean it won't meet code.