City code loopholes?
Question:Wondering how I can get away without using a contractor to erect an 8 foot long fence with a 3 foot gate that was approved by my home owners association. The city won't issue me a permit because they say a licensed contractor needs to do all the work. My material estimate is $150, with a contractor it'll be at least $500! That's just wrong!
Answers:
Unfortunately the work you are talking about will take place and be seen outside your home, not like remodeling or interior work in your house that no one would know about. This fence will be seen by the city eventually , or you may have a nasty neighbor that might report you. Bite the bullet and do it by the book. It will save you headaches and possibly fines in the long run. I would suggest at least 5 estimates from licensed contractors. Tell them that you will buy the materials . If they are not willing to work out a deal with you, then you don't want to work with them
I would contest the city. I have never lived in a jurisdiction where a homeowner cannot act as their own contractor. It is usurping the right of a property owner to say otherwise.
That aside, find a contractor that will do the job labor only. You supply the materials, they erect the fence.
Most jurisdictions do not require a permit if the homeowner is doing the work themselves. Check your local requirements.
personally what i would do, is just build the fence, (im a contractor), and if the city ever came by and said any thing, more than likely they will tell to go get a permit.thanks goodness i live in a city does not require a fence permit, but my brother in MO. needed one and he did it himself
I work as an inspector for an Arkansas city. Our laws and ordinances require licensed contractors unless "work is performed by the owner, residing on the property. Owners of property are not allowed to perform work on rental property where they do not reside."
I don't know where you are located, but I feel confident in saying that the municipality cannot legally require you to hire a contractor to perform work in which you are not required to possess a license and conform to Building,Electrical,Plumbing, or HVACR codes implemented by the State or local Zoning Department.
I find it hard to believe too. Just put the thing up yourself.
I have done a bunch of work, and paid pros to do work on my house, and even when i pull a permit, they dont come see it...
I don't know about CO, but in CA any work valued under $600 does not require a licensed contractor. Also, most states allow the homeowner to perform the work but it must pass inspection. This might be the loop hole you are looking for.
Inspection on a fence like this would be extremely minimal, just to ensure your posts are deep enough.
In my area you get a Home Owners permit and you are required to follow city codes on the job you are doing and may have to pass and inspection or a series of inspections if there are different phases of the project. Something seem pretty stinky in your case. Have you checked with your council person? What about your Home Owner rep?
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