Chapter 8: Time to Get a Permit
Secure Your Garage Installation with the Right Permits
You’ve successfully designed and priced your metal garage, navigated local building regulations, created a detailed site plan, planned your foundation, and placed your order. Now, it’s time to take the crucial step of obtaining a building permit. This chapter will guide you through the permit application process, ensuring your garage installation is compliant and hassle-free.
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Comes with a 1-year workmanship warranty and a 20-year warranty against rust, with optional 12-gauge steel framing and most roof panels.
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Most of our metal garages&carports are delivered and installed within 30 to 60 days.
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Step 1: Gather Your Permit Application Materials
Begin by organizing the information and documents you need to apply for a permit. Here’s how to get started:
Review Your Notes
Refer to the notes you took during your conversation with the local planning and zoning department.
Site Plan
Prepare a detailed map of your property showing the proposed garage location in relation to property boundaries, existing structures, wells, and septic fields.
Complete the Application
Fill out the application form accurately and pay the required permit fee.
Find the Application Form
Locate the online or paper application form for a building permit. Depending on your jurisdiction, this may be labeled as an “Accessory Structure Permit” or a general “Residential Building Permit.”
Engineer Plans
If required, inform us immediately so we can order the necessary generic engineer plans. These plans will be emailed to you within 1-2 weeks. For “wet seal” plans (physically stamped with a rubber seal), they will be mailed, which may take longer.
Manufacturer’s Involvement
Some local governments require the garage manufacturer to apply for or pick up the building permit. If this applies to your area, inform Top Steel Shed so we can assist with the process.
Get All the Details with Our Garage Buying Guide
Step 2: Submit Your Permit Application
Once you’ve gathered all necessary materials, follow these steps to submit your permit application:
Fill Out the Application
Complete the permit application form with accurate details about your garage project.
Attach Required Documents
Include any required documents such as engineer plans and your site plan.
Pay the Permit Fee
Submit the application along with the applicable permit fee. Fees vary based on the size and complexity of your garage.
Submit Your Application
Submit the completed application form and documents to your local building department. This can typically be done online, by mail, or in person.
Step 3: Follow Up and Obtain Your Permit
After submitting your application, ensure you stay on top of the process:
Track Your Application
Contact the planning department to confirm receipt of your application and inquire about the review timeline.
Respond to Requests
Be prepared to provide additional information or make necessary adjustments if the planning department requests further details.
Receive Your Permit
Once approved, you will receive your building permit. Ensure you keep a copy for your records and provide a copy to Top Steel Shed to schedule your garage installation.
Step 4: Submit Your Permit to Top Steel Shed
After obtaining your permit, take the following steps to move forward with your garage installation:
Send Us a Copy
Email or upload a copy of your approved permit to Top Steel Shed. This step is crucial as we cannot schedule your installation until we have confirmation that the permit has been issued.
Schedule Installation
Once we receive your permit, we will notify the manufacturer and place your order in the installation queue. Our team will coordinate with you to schedule a convenient installation date.
Final Preparations
Ensure your site is ready for installation, including any necessary grading or preparation as outlined in Chapter 5.
Tips for a Smooth Permit Process
Be Thorough: Ensure all sections of the application are completed accurately to avoid delays.
Stay Organized: Keep all your documents and communications in one place for easy reference.
Communicate Clearly: Maintain open communication with both your local planning department and Top Steel Shed to address any issues promptly.
Hire Professionals: Consider working with a reputable contractor who is familiar with the permit process to streamline your application.
Avoid Common Permit Pitfalls
Incomplete Applications: Missing information or documents can lead to delays or rejections.
Ignoring Setbacks: Failing to adhere to setback requirements can result in permit denial.
Non-Compliance: Building without a permit or against permit conditions can lead to fines and require demolition of the structure.
Delayed Responses: Respond promptly to any requests from the planning department to keep your application moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
The minimum width for a single-car garage is typically 10 feet, with garage door sizes usually scaled down to 8 feet. However, for larger vehicles like SUVs, a wider garage (12 feet) is recommended to ensure the doors can open comfortably.
The average single-car garage size is 12 feet wide by 20 feet deep. Other common sizes include 12’x25’ and 18’x20’, offering more space for storage and larger vehicles.
While our sheds and garages are not designed as permanent living spaces, they can be customized and insulated for use as workshops, studios, or recreational areas. Always check with local building codes and zoning regulations before planning to use the building as a living space.
A standard garage is typically 18 to 20 feet long, providing enough depth for most vehicles and additional storage space.
For full-size pickups, a garage should be at least 24 feet deep. This ensures ample space to maneuver around the vehicle and prevents any tight parking situations.
Standard garage door sizes for a two-car garage are approximately 9 feet wide per door, totaling around 16 feet wide for two doors. This accommodates most sedans and SUVs comfortably.
A typical 4-car garage measures at least 36 feet wide by 24 feet deep, with individual door widths of about 16 feet. Larger garages may be required for bigger vehicles or additional storage needs.
For comfortable access, a garage should be at least 4 feet wider and deeper than the vehicle’s dimensions. For example, a car that is 6 feet wide would require a garage that is at least 10 feet wide.
