Can I have a pool house type structure built my vacant property and live in it ?

Question

I was looking up storage sheds and pool houses and got an idea. I have a property in a residential area. There is nothing built on it and most the other properties adjacent to it and in the area for blocks away are also not built.

I was thinking of purchasing a pool house type stucture. This is a link.

http://www.gazebocreations.com/cs_StructureSize.aspx?cs_StructureType=7&Path=8&cs_StructureStyle=9&cs_StructureMaterial=17&cs_StructureModel=6

Now I am planning having it built, then add electric to it and drywall and finish it. Inside, it is most likely going to look like a one room house. I am going to build a small wall for a very small bathroom with shower room. I am not sure how I waqnt to do plumbing yet.

I contacted the county. This is an unincorporated area in Florida. I was told that it the struture was not permanently atached, it could not be taxed. So I may have it build on a trailer and they skirt it.

CONT'D....

I contacted an electric contractor. he told me it would be quite easy to set up a post on the property with a meter on it. he said contruction sites and properties owners that live in their RV on their own properties do it all the time in Florida.

Still not sure about the plumbing. I need to talk to a plumber regarding septic and water. I honestly rather find a way to get my own water. The water company here charges you whether you use water or not in these crazy fees. I am not home all the time and sometimes am away for a month or two. I do not want to have a bill if I do not use any water. I could just turn it off everytime but its an inconvience. I am sure there is another way and your ideas would be great.

So anyway, yes, I am a simple man looking to have a simple and cheap home. I was told I can legally do this yet the county and state frown upon this practice. What are your opinions?

Answer 1

Do not depend on unofficial advice.

Check the local and state building and health requirements.

Local and state building regulate the structures and land useage.

Florida Building Code Online

http://www.floridabuilding.org/BCISOld/bc/default.asp

Local and state health regulate the water supply and water disposal systems.

It appears that the Plumbing Code for Florida is a sub-section of the Florida Building Code.

Many areas require a minimum size of building according to the lot size.

As for plumbing, you require a potable water supply, and a method to dispose of waste water.

Some areas may allow private wells and septic systems; these have to be installed correctly or you could become very ill and possibly die.

Good Luck.

Answer 2

Taxes and utility fees help support your community. Does your property have a road that leads to it? Taxes paid for that road. If your shanty is vandalized, would you want the sheriff to investigate? Taxes pay his/her salary.

Instead of a semi-permanent structure, get a fifth-wheel camper and drag it out to your property. For water you can capture rainwater in a cistern, or have a well drilled. For septic, you can use a cabin toilet that burns waste, or install a composting toilet.

Answer 3

I am not familiar with Florida code but usually if you have utilities such as sewer and water you have to pay tax as it is now a considered permanent structure.

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