Property Boundary - Construction Question??

[Philip-TX]

Utility easements are different from setbacks.

Not likely to get variances for utility easments as you might for setbacks.

Which utilties use the easement?

Check survey/plat for both at the county offices.

Is this a residential development?

It is possible to get a variance in some cases for setbacks. But it could mean builing a fire-rated wall as they do in Zero Lot line developments.

There are (building) codes that apply even though you are not under city jurisdiction. i.e
IRC (Internation Residential Code), NFPA (National Fire Protection Association Codes. - NEC (National Electric Code),

From TRCC - Texas Residential Construction Commission:

Code Requirements
The code used to make an inspection varies based upon the location of the home. The statewide residential building code is the 2000 International Residential Code (IRC) and the 1999 National Electrical Code (NEC). These however, may be amended in local jurisdictions; generally these amendments take the form of the adoption of the more recently updated code provisions. The code that applies in an unincorporated area is the code adopted by the county seat. If the county seat has not adopted a version of the code, then the 2000 IRC applies.

IRC says
a)unrated walls min 3 ft to PL
b)walls <3ft to PL req. 1hr fire rating and no openings except foundation vents and opngs in walls perpendicular to PL are OK.

[Lubbock hunter]

I have looked all over and asked a few questions, all with different answers so I thought I would post it up here.

I am looking to put in a permanent metal building/carport on the side of my home. My question is how close to my property line can I put this building?

I have heard 5' and 10' from the boundary, one is an option and the other is not with my situation. I ask this as I own other properties that have add-ons that are within one foot of the boundary and there are no issues.

I know people put fences right on the line, what about a building?

I have also been told there is a 10' utility easement all the way around the property and I have to honor that number. If so, how can you put up a fence on the boundary line?



My neighbor on that side owns two lots and the one between us is vacant and they have not built yet. I am tempted to ask to purchase half of the vacant lot but someone brought up the fact you can subdivide lots. If I could even get a few extra feet it would be great.

I am located in the county and not under any city limit jurisdiction.

Any input?

Last time I checked the 15' easement was from the road only. Due to utilitites upgrades and access.

[Big_gun]

I was hoping to be able to get an 18x50 on the side to house the boat, my toys, shop and patio.

The relocation to set it deeper into the property would increase the driveway by 80-100' and that would be a pretty penny.

If you can get an 18x100' shop on your property you have a large lot... ;-) Check your title plat survey then check the deed restrictions... If those lead nowhere ask your HOA or whomever enforces the restrictions.

And do not build on a utility easement without a signed agreement from utility for you to do so. In some cases they will allow you to do so and give you a signed document.

[Mike]

Thanks for the input, we do have large lots, all are .4 acres in my subdivision. I have plenty of room on the other side of the house but I wanted to tie it into my existing driveway.

The utility easement is kinda moot at this point IMO, they have used the ones that they were able to access(meaning no fences) to drain the new lots behind us. They came in and dug drainage ditches between some homes to re-route water.

I think the easiest deal is to purchase some of the lot next door and go from there.