Are you planning on making an addition to your home or building a new property on vacant land you’ve purchased? Make sure you find out ahead of time whether you’re in compliance with local zoning and land use laws by hiring an experienced Rhode Island zoning and land use lawyer. Find out what permits you’ll need, what construction laws you must follow, and what environmental issues you’re likely to encounter before you begin your project!
FAQs about zoning and planning
At the Law Offices of Howe & Garside, LTD, our clients ask many questions about their plans to build new construction or additions to their property and what may be required.
Some of the more common frequently asked questions include:
Question: I live in a single-family zoning district. My aging mother-in-law wants to live with me. Can I add an additional kitchen and bedroom to my house so that she can have some privacy?
Answer: You may or may not be able to add an additional kitchen and bathroom to your home depending upon state law and the specific zoning ordinances of your district. Get a local attorney to help guide you through the process.
Question: I’d like to add a deck around my above-ground swimming pool and build a tool shed in the backyard. Will I need a building permit?
Answer: Yes, you will most likely need a building permit as nearly all construction around your home does require one.
Question: I want to build a small office for my dentistry practice on a piece of land that is in a residential zone. What should I do?
Answer: If you want to build something on property that has a different zoning than what you plan to build, you may be able to apply for a use variance with that area’s Zoning Board of Review or request a zoning change with the City/Town Council. It’s not always easy to get this kind of application approved if your plan doesn’t conform to the city’s general zoning plan, so you will benefit greatly by having legal representation.
Question: There are two acres of extra land alongside my house that I do not use. Can I sell this land to a builder?
Answer: Possibly. To do this, you will likely need to file an application to subdivide your land with your City or town’s Planning Board. You will likely need to have a survey of the property completed along with your application. It is wise to hire a skilled real estate lawyer to help you with the technicalities of this application process.
Building projects are a large investment of both your time and your money. Every city and town has its own specific requirements about various building projects, so it is always wise to consult with a legal expert in the field of land use and zoning before you proceed.
Contact a Rhode Island zoning and land use lawyer for a free consultation today.
If you’re considering building an addition on to your office or home, contact a Rhode Island zoning and land use lawyer for a free consultation today. The experienced legal staff at the Law Office of Howe & Garside, LTD will thoroughly evaluate your plans and advise you about what you’ll need to get them approved and implemented. With years of experience, we’re up-to-date on the latest zoning laws and regulations and we’ll help you make sure your plan will work. Visit our website at counselfirst.com or give us a call at (401) 841-5700 and let one of our knowledgeable attorneys answer any questions you may have.
