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The Building Permit Checklist: A Simple Guide to Getting Your DIY Garage Kit Approved
You're picking out some DIY garage kits, you have the tools ready, and the weekend cleared. However, there is one crucial step you must handle before you drive a single nail: the building permit. Dealing with the city planning department intimidates many homeowners. The paperwork can feel confusing, and the fear of rejection is real.
We want to simplify this process for you. Getting garage kit permits is not actually that hard if you have the right documents in hand. Most building departments want you to succeed because they want safe structures in their community. Here is your checklist to get approved quickly so you can start building.
Key Takeaways
- Check zoning first: Verify setbacks and property line distances before you purchase your kit.
- Get the right drawings: You need engineered specifications or architectural drawings, which Best Barns often provides.
- Draw a site plan: Create a simple map of your property showing where the new garage will sit relative to your house and fences.
- Schedule inspections: You must pause construction at specific stages (foundation and framing) for the city inspector to review the work.
- Permits protect value: Proper garage kit permits ensure your insurance covers the structure and prevents issues when you sell your home.
Step 1: Check Your Local Zoning Rules
Before you even buy the kit, you need to know where you are allowed to put it. Every property has "setbacks." A setback is the minimum distance a building must be from your property line, your house, or the street.
Call your local building department or check their website. Ask them two questions:
- What are the setback requirements for a detached accessory structure?
- Is there a maximum height restriction for garages in my neighborhood?
For example, the Maker’s Loft XL is a tall structure. You need to ensure your local zoning allows for a second-story peak height. If you build too close to the fence without asking, the city can make you tear it down.
Step 2: Download the Engineered Drawings
City inspectors need proof that your garage will not collapse under heavy snow or blow away in a windstorm. They require "engineered drawings" or structural specifications.
This is where buying a Best Barns kit saves you time. Unlike a scratch-built garage where you must pay an architect to draw plans, these kits come with the specs you need. You can usually download the general specifications directly from the product page.
For the permit application, you might need the formal stamped engineering packet. Contact the dealer or manufacturer to get these specific documents for your application.
Step 3: Draw Your Site Plan
The permit office needs a bird's-eye view of your backyard. This is called a site plan. You do not need expensive software to do this. A piece of graph paper and a ruler work perfectly fine.
Your site plan must show:
- The outline of your property lines.
- The location of your main house.
- The proposed location of the new garage kit.
- The distance (in feet) between the garage and the property lines.
- The location of any septic tanks, power lines, or easements.
Label everything clearly. This drawing proves to the inspector that you are respecting the setback rules you learned in Step 1.
Step 4: Submit and Pay the Fee
Take your application, your site plan, and the Best Barns structural drawings to the building department. You will have to pay a permit fee. This fee is usually based on the square footage of the building or the estimated value of the project.
Once you submit everything, there is a waiting period. It might take a few days or a few weeks for them to review your plans. Do not start digging or pouring concrete until you have the physical permit card in your hand.
Step 5: The Inspection Card
Getting the permit is only the beginning. You will receive an inspection card that you must post on the job site. You will likely need to call for three specific inspections:
- Foundation Inspection: The inspector looks at your holes or forms before you pour the concrete.
- Framing Inspection: The inspector checks the structure after the walls and roof trusses are up but before you install siding or drywall. They check the stud spacing and anchoring.
- Final Inspection: They do a final walkthrough to ensure the building is safe and complete
Why You Should Never Skip the Permit
You might be tempted to build without a permit to save money. This is a bad idea. If your garage catches fire or a tree falls on it, your homeowners insurance may deny the claim if the structure was unpermitted. Also, if you try to sell your house later, an unpermitted garage can kill the sale or force you to lower your asking price.
Building it legally protects your investment. Since Best Barns kits are engineered to meet high standards, getting the permit is usually just a matter of submitting the right paperwork.
Best Barns DIY Garage Kit Permit Sets
Own a Best Barns Tailored Titan or Maker's Loft garage kit? These are the permit documents you'll need. Just pick your model:
Have any questions or would like to place an order? We'd love to help! Chat with our friendly customer service team by calling 1-844-945-3625, chatting in on our website or email us at customersupport@wildoaktrail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need a permit for a garage kit?
Yes, almost all full-size garages require a permit. Small sheds under 120 square feet often do not, but large structures like the Tailored Titan do.
How much do garage kit permits cost?
Permit fees vary by city but typically range from $200 to $600. The cost usually depends on the size of the structure and the project value.
Does Best Barns provide stamped blueprints?
Best Barns provides standard manual and specs. If your city requires state-stamped engineer plans, you may need to purchase a specific engineering package.
What happens if I build without a permit?
The city can issue a "stop work" order, fine you heavily, or force you to demolish the structure at your own expense.
How long does it take to get a permit approved?
Simple residential garage permits usually take 1 to 4 weeks for approval, depending on how busy your local building department is.
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