Zoning Limitations
We are looking to buy a semi-attached house which we’d like to dormer and otherwise renovate. How can we learn if this is even permitted on the block? Also, since it’s semi-attached, what would our neighbors have to do with it? (Do we need their approval?) Any insight would be appreciated, we are totally clueless….
We are looking to buy a semi-attached house which we’d like to dormer and otherwise renovate. How can we learn if this is even permitted on the block? Also, since it’s semi-attached, what would our neighbors have to do with it? (Do we need their approval?) Any insight would be appreciated, we are totally clueless.
Thank you,
Total Nube
We’re not inclined to start spending money (hiring an architect) until we actually buy the house, but we’ll definitely take jock’s and brook’s recommendations at that time.
Thanks Action, your recommendation was helpful. We discovered that the semi-attached house we’re interested in is in an R5 zoning district. All the info we can find about “R5” is: “R3-2, R4, R5, R5B and R5D are general residence districts that permit all housing types and are distinguished by differing bulk and density, height and setback, lot coverage or open space, and parking requirements.”
To us, it seems like dormering the house would be fine. Does anyone think differently? Anyone w/more info on “R5?” (no other letters or numbers, just plain ‘R5’)
For a rough look at the zoning in the neighborhood, goto City Planning’s website at nyc.gov. You can review a zoning map of the area you are purchasing, plus ref. the basic height and bulk restrictions.
As with the two above posts, you will need to file with the DOB, so hiring an architect, engineer and surveyor will be needed.
As far as neighbors go, are you going to be a good neighbor? If so, if you buy and plan to renovate, tell them of your basic plans when borrowing the first cup of sugar.
You need to talk with an architect. You will need a permit for this. It is just a brooklynexpediter has advised.
Jock deBoer, AIA
deBoer Architects
In general you will need to do a comprehensive zoning analysis for which you a survey is best in order to make a correct determination .