can I legally turn my garage into a living area?

[molecularfire]

Hello. The subject line pretty much explains it. I am moving back home to save money during my residency (and to help pay off the house) and I was thinking of converting the garage into a bedroom, bathroom and studyroom. Unfortunately... or maybe fortunately... the neighborhood is in the process of gentrifying and one of the things they're doing is they're sending people around to look at building code violations and so right now is not the best time to be doing stuff illegitimately. Anyways, I was wondering what kind of paperwork is necessary (if it is even possible) to be able to turn my garage into a living area. If it helps, we do not park the car in the garage (haven't done that for many years) and don't intend to. Also, I'm on a limited budget and was planning to do the work myself (I have experience with construction so I know what to do physically... paperwork however is not my strong point).

TIA

[bachviet]

I don't think you can but don't take my word for it.

[Showtime]

If you know the right people, you can do just about anything. ;) At least in L.A. it works like that.

-j

[welfareloser]

it depends on the state. and city, in some cases. since you're not going to be renting it out to some unrelated person, you should be just fine. the bed? for naps, dude. why can't you nap in your own garage? the bathroom? yeah, well... this room with the bed is my "thinking" room. and sometimes, when i think, i need to pee. etc.

in most cases, you can turn a garage into a living space, you just have to adhere to a few rules - proper number and size of emergency exits, proper hvac, safe wiring, etc. and since this is all in the family, i doubt you have much to worry about. get a copy of the codes from the local inspection agency. if you feel the need to hide what you're doing - when the inspector comes nosin, tell him your gf is taking a dump now, and could he come back later?

[BigJon]

I know people who have. Check with local building inspectors and fire inspectors.

[Hopper1]

Hello. The subject line pretty much explains it. I am moving back home to save money during my residency (and to help pay off the house) and I was thinking of converting the garage into a bedroom, bathroom and studyroom. Unfortunately... or maybe fortunately... the neighborhood is in the process of gentrifying and one of the things they're doing is they're sending people around to look at building code violations and so right now is not the best time to be doing stuff illegitimately. Anyways, I was wondering what kind of paperwork is necessary (if it is even possible) to be able to turn my garage into a living area. If it helps, we do not park the car in the garage (haven't done that for many years) and don't intend to. Also, I'm on a limited budget and was planning to do the work myself (I have experience with construction so I know what to do physically... paperwork however is not my strong point).

TIA
I believe you can but everything must be up to building codes and you would need a remodeling/building permit depending on your local ordinances.

[Jenny]

My parents did. :shrug: heh

[Nija]

Here is for the California city of Rohnert Park:
http://www.ci.rohnert-park.ca.us/services/pfaq.cfm#3



If you would like to convert an existing garage into living area, you will be required to provide a replacement parking space on your property and obtain approval from the Planning Department. A building permit is also required. For more information, refer to Section 17.16.040 C. of the Zoning Ordinance.

Google search terms = california converting a garage into a bedroom

[speedracer120]

:stupid: All you need is the proper permits and you should be fine. Expect the inspectors to be more stringent if you do it yourself.

[molecularfire]

Cool. Thanks everybody. I guess I'm off to city hall.

[faither]

Also expect your taxes to rise based on the improvements made to the house and be sure to review your homeowner's insurance to determine if your coverage needs to be amended.