Your Cart is Empty
The Ultimate Guide to Permitting and Zoning for Your Barndominium Kit
What Are the Permitting Requirements for a Barndominium?
Building a home is a dream, but the paperwork can feel like a nightmare. If you are planning to transform a Best Barns barndominium kit—like the massive Crafted Colossal or the versatile Handcrafted Homestead XL—into a permanent residence, you aren’t just building a shed; you are building a home. That distinction changes everything when it comes to the law.
To help you move from "dream" to "done," we have broken down the permitting and zoning process into five manageable steps.
Key Takeaways
- Zoning vs. Permitting: Zoning is about where you build; permitting is about how you build.
- Kit Specs Matter: Use the specific dimensions of the Homestead XL 16x32 or Colossal (16'2" peak height) for your applications.
- Foundation First: Decide early if you are using the Fortress Floor™ or pouring a concrete slab, as this changes your permit type.
- Safety Features: Livable spaces require egress windows and stair railings, which are critical for the Homestead and Colossal two-story models.
Step 1: The Zoning Check (Can You Build It?)
Before you fall in love with a specific model, you need to know if you are legally allowed to live in a "barn" on your property. Zoning laws dictate how land is used, not just what is built on it.
- Residential vs. Agricultural: Ensure your lot is zoned for residential use. In some areas, barns are only permitted for agricultural storage, not habitation.
- The "Accessory" Hurdle: If you already have a house on the property, zoning might classify your new kit as an "Accessory Dwelling Unit" (ADU). ADUs often have strict size limits. You'll want to verify if models like the Handcrafted Homestead XL, which offers sizes up to 16x32, fit within these limits.
- HOA Restrictions: Even if the town says yes, your Homeowner’s Association might say no. Check specifically for restrictions on "metal siding" or "gambrel roof lines," although Best Barns kits use LP® SmartSide® siding, which looks like traditional wood and is easier to get approved than metal.
Step 2: The Site Plan (Where Will It Go?)
Once you know you can build, you need to show the town where. You will need to submit a Site Plan—a drawing of your property lines showing exactly where the structure will sit.
- Setbacks: Every property has "setback lines"—invisible borders usually 10-20 feet from your neighbor's fence where you cannot build.
- Height Restrictions: Your site plan may need to list the peak height to ensure it doesn't block views. The Crafted Colossal series features a peak height of 16'2", and the Homestead XL has a loft max height of 7'1". Make sure these dimensions comply with your local height ordinances.
- Foundation Footprint: Your site plan must show the foundation. While Best Barns offers an optional Fortress Floor™ system, permanent residences often require a concrete slab foundation. Verify this with your local building department.
Step 3: The Building Permit (The "How")
This is the big one. While zoning handles land use, the building permit handles safety. You will need to prove that the structure is safe to live in.
- Structural Integrity: Inspectors look for framing that can handle wind and snow loads. Best Barns kits are built with Secure Truss™ framing and Timber Prestige™ premium Eurowood. Highlight these materials in your application to demonstrate quality.
- Blueprints: You will likely need to submit drawings of the structure. The Crafted Colossal comes with an Elite Package that includes dormers and windows, which significantly impacts the "egress" (exit) requirements for livable spaces.
- The "Shell" Distinction: It is crucial to explain that the kit provides the shell. You will likely need separate permits for the electrical, plumbing, and insulation work you plan to add to the interior.
Step 4: Inspections (The Check-Up)
Once your permit is issued, you can break ground! However, you can't build the whole thing at once. The town will want to inspect the work in stages.
- Foundation Inspection: Done before you pour concrete to ensure footings are deep enough.
- Framing Inspection: This happens after the shell is built but before you put up drywall. The inspector will look at the Secure Truss™ system and the 2x4 floor joists (if using the wood floor option).
- Rough-In Inspection: If you are adding a bathroom or kitchen, the inspector will check the pipes and wires while the walls are still open.
Step 5: The Certificate of Occupancy (The Finish Line)
You cannot legally move into your barndominium until you have a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). This is the final piece of paper that says your barn is officially a "home."
To get this, your build must have:
- Egress Windows: Bedrooms need windows large enough to escape through in a fire. The Crafted Colossal includes 36x36 lower wall windows which are often sufficient, but always verify local code.
- Smoke Detectors & Railings: Since models like the Homestead XL include a full second-story loft with a staircase, inspectors will strictly check for handrails on the stairs and smoke detectors in the loft sleeping areas.
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
Does Best Barns provide the building permit?
No, the homeowner is responsible for obtaining all local permits. Best Barns provides the kit and specifications needed for the application.
Can I build a barndominium on a wood floor?
Yes, you can use the Fortress Floor™ system, but many local codes require a permanent concrete foundation for a primary residence.
Do I need an architect?
Usually, no. For a kit build, you typically just need the manufacturer’s specifications and a site plan, though some complex jurisdictions may require an engineer's stamp.
Is the loft considered a bedroom?
To be a legal bedroom, the loft must have an egress window and a closet. The Colossal series includes dormer windows which can often meet these requirements.
What is the "Elite Package"?
The Elite Package is included with the Crafted Colossal series and adds features like dormers, shutters, and a 9-lite door, giving the barn a more residential finish.
Leave a comment
Comments will be approved before showing up.