10 Outdoor Renovations That Could Get You Fined
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Renovating outdoor spaces can give your home a new look, increasing curb appeal, and increasing your enjoyment of the space. Homeowners are always looking to make their yard reflect their personality and lifestyle, whether it’s building a cozy deck, adding fencing for privacy or even planting some shrubs.
But what many don’t know is that there can be a rather lengthy list of dos and don’ts for outdoor renovations under city or neighborhood regulations, meaning some renovations can get you into trouble with local authorities — you can be fined or asked to reverse your handiwork. If you overlook these ten outdoor renovations, they could end up costing you more than a quick fix — and a fine.
Fencing Without Approval
While adding a fence might seem straightforward, it can be red tape filled, especially in places that are governed by HOAs or zoning laws. In some communities, you need approval to build a fence, down to the height and materials and even the color. You can be fined or even be told to remove them entirely if you install a fence without the proper approvals. Checking local regulations and having all required permits before you begin will save you the hassle.
Creating a Driveway Extension
While an extra bit of driveway space might seem like a dream for busy households, extending your driveway can sometimes run afoul of local codes. There are a lot of rules surrounding driveways (many municipalities will put restrictions on the size of a driveway and will require permits to work on any alterations). If you expand without approval, you’re looking at a fine and potentially having to take down the new section, leaving you right back where you started. Therefore, make sure you get the green light from the local authorities before you pour that extra concrete.
Painting the Exterior of Your Home in an Unapproved Color
If you live in a historic district or are part of an HOA, painting your home’s exterior isn’t just about choosing a color you love. Other colors communities enforce strict color palettes where you must get pre approval before you change anything. Paint first, ask questions later, and you could be hit with fines or an order to repaint in a more acceptable hue. It is always important to check color guidelines to avoid unnecessary fees and labor.
Adding an Unauthorized Deck or Patio
A new deck or patio make a great addition to your yard; just make sure that you check your local building codes before building anything. There are some municipalities that regulate the size and height, and even the type of materials you can use, for outdoor living spaces. If you don’t follow these guidelines when building a deck, you could be fined or ordered to take it all down. Play it safe, and check with your local planning office to see if you’ll need to apply for a permit to get started, before you hammer in that first nail.
Installing Solar Panels Without Approval
Energy savings are great with solar panels, but many communities need approval before you can install them. In some neighborhoods, rules exist about where panels can go, usually forbidding them in places that are visible for aesthetic reasons. Putting in solar panels without first asking permission can incur fines, at least and sometimes a requirement to remove them. First make sure to contact your HOA or local zoning board to see if there are any restrictions.
Setting Up a Shed or Outbuilding Without a Permit
Extra storage is a lifesaver in sheds and outbuildings, but many locales require a permit for these structures, especially if they are larger than a certain size or visible from the road. If you fail to get a permit you could face fines or an order to remove the structure. Before you jump into your project, check to make sure with your local municipality whether or not your project would require a permit and to save yourself the surprise of extra costly costs down the line.
Bright Outdoor Lighting Installation
While exterior lighting can be a great security feature and a fun way to entertain, it can also disrupt neighbors and run afoul of local ‘light pollution’ rules. Both local governments and communities may have rules about the placement and intensity of outdoor lighting, in order to maintain neighborhood ambiance. Exceeding these limits can result in being fined, and complaints from the neighbors. When you plan lighting, softer, downward facing lights will keep everyone happy.
Building a Fire Pit Without Approval
A backyard fire pit is a great source of coziness, but according to Homes & Gardens, many municipalities or HOAs have strict regulation to prevent open flames for safety reasons. You may have to obey certain rules about where to put your fire pit, its sizing, and type. If you skip these steps, you could face fines, or even have your pit removed. To avoid a headache, be sure to check with local authorities to see if you need a permit, or if there are restrictions, before installing one.
Planting Non-Native or Invasive Plants
Some plants are restricted because they are invasive or have an environmental impact, but a beautiful garden will enhance the appeal of your yard. In some regions, there are lists of non native or invasive plants that cannot be used in landscaping. If you plant these without permission you could be fined and have to remove the plants. Choose native species or ask local ordinances what won’t come back to haunt you.
Replacing Your Lawn With Artificial Turf Without Permission
Artificial turf is a favorite in water-scarce areas, but some HOAs or cities forbid or even ban its use. In many cases, there are specific landscaping requirements in communities where natural grass is a part of the neighborhood’s look. Fines or removal requirements exist for installing artificial turf without approval. Make sure you check with your HOA or city zoning department before you commit to a turf installation to be sure it’s allowed.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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