Building a guest house in the backyard of a Park Slope brownstone

Hi,
I’m wondering if DOB would likely approve plans to build a 16×20 structure in the backyard of my extra-deep townhouse lot? I have available FAR to build, but instead of building an extension up or back on the main structure, I’d rather build a seperate building. It would have a full basement, hvac, plumbing and electric so that it could serve as an office or guest house. Has anyone done this before? Are there limits about how far from my neighbors property I have to be? Any advice welcome.
Thanks,
Jessica

grjtydqxuv

in General Discussion 8 years ago

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robyim1 | 8 years ago

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They allow you to build sheds to code and there’s some pretty nice sheds that are insulated have hvac and electric. I don’t know about basements or plumbing. That sounds like a lot of digging to connect the plumbing to the main house. And a lot of digging again and concrete to produce that foundation. Sounds like you have the space though.

grjtydqxuv | 8 years ago

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the lot is 135′ deep with the main structure being 40 ft deep. so, there would be at least 60′ between the 2 buildings.

jimhillra | 8 years ago

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You are definitely allowed two buildings on one lot, if that lot is big enough. The space between buildings is in most cases required to be 60′. Agenciegroup refers to permitted obstructions, which may allow for some creative interpretation of the zoning.

slopefarm | 8 years ago

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I think moze is right. Old out buildings are probably grandfathered, but I don’t think you can legally build a new one that would allow for any kind of occupancy. I am not an architect and I don’t know for sure. But if it were allowed, I think there would be hundreds of these being built given the market over the last 15 years.

mozeeatupu | 8 years ago

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I don’t think you’re allowed two structures on one lot

agenciegroup | 8 years ago

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There are a few interesting permitted obstructions in Rear Yards, that, if articulated correctly could accomplish what you’re setting out to do. Happy to discuss further: hola@agenciegroup.com