i took out one window completely, closed off 1/2 another window and added one whole window (22inches wide by 46 inches high). what are the fine costs (if any). is it necessary to get a permit to install a sliding glass door?
2007-09-26 22:38:32 · 5 answers · asked by crazyconnie00 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
The city can actually condemn your house if you get caught in the act. Closing off windows, especially in bedrooms, can be considered a violation of life safety codes. Windows are required to be a certain size for fire escape and to allow enough room for a fireman with a tank on his back to enter. Good Luck.
You will need a permit to install a sliding glass door unless your just replacing an existing door.
2007-09-26 23:28:00 · answer #1 · answered by Parercut Faint 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Call the local office of permits and they will talk to you about your problem. Tel lthem you didn't know you needed permits and they will work with you so you are not violating their laws in the future. They do not want to fine you, they just want the work done up to their codes. Be nice, act like you didn't know you needed a permit, tell them a neighbor saw that you had done some work and asked about the permits and you had an 'ah ha' moment. They will send an inspector out and he will go over what you did and what you need to open up so he can see and inspect. The inspector will also go over what you will need permits for any future work. In some cases you will need someone with a license for that particular kind of work. ie structural, electrical, plumbing. Standard homeownner repairs do not need special licenses.
2007-09-27 07:00:02 · answer #2 · answered by spacedude4 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Because I live in FL, not CA, I have no real idea as to zoning or code laws where you are. BUT in most cases as a standard answer two is correct in saying REPLACEMENTS are not usually so strictly goverened.
Code enforcement and permits aren't designed only for revenue. In some measure they equate to FIRE issues as # 1 states; and or liability issues pertaining to your home owners insurance.
The upside MIGHT be one can get away with doing something; especially if rural; without checking codes and any possibility of violations; but any decent code enforcement agency can dictate/ and has; that you dismantle or remove any construction NOT in code. To me that equates to a much higher fee than what it might cost to permit a new sliding door.
Steven Wolf
2007-09-27 07:31:54 · answer #3 · answered by DIY Doc 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Whenever a wall, window, or door is altered they want a permit. They want to make sure the structure is sound and able to hold the weight as most outside walls are weight bearing. You will notice on new construction the extra lumber used around these openings to make sure they dont "fall" and cause damage later.
2007-09-27 22:01:42 · answer #4 · answered by analize2much 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In my county, you are supposed to pay for a permit to install new windows or doors. They want to verify that egress and tempering requirements are met. Also, now have energy requirements that need to be met as well, meet these with Low E glass.
2007-09-27 09:10:04 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋