Spring has sprung, rush has started at Town of Webb code office
Spring rush
Spring has sprung, with or without all the snow being gone. In the last few weeks the number of building permit applications received in the code office is somewhat overwhelming.
The simpler ones will be reviewed and issued almost on the spot.
But not all are simple, as much as the applicant would like to see.
When submitting an application that includes all the information required, it will go a long ways to expediting the review process; especially applications involving a new house, new structure, addition or major renovation.
Here are the most common things found [or missing] that makes it impossible to issue a permit quickly.
• Snow load criteria – 80psf + adjustment for elevation. For most properties around the chain of Lakes it calculates to a minimum of 96psf. Big Moose Lake is generally 98psf and Twitchell Lake is generally 102psf. If the structure is stick-built and raftered, the design professional must state the design load requirement used. Remember the roof load transfers all the way down through the structure into the footings. Everything can be impacted; beams, posts, door and window headers all make up the structural integrity….and these are the minimum requirements. Roof design may also have impact by having an upper roof slide onto a lower roof.
• Wind category “C” – 90mph minimum. There may be a few properties along shorelines that could qualify for a category “B”, 110 mph sustained winds.
• All frost protection depth is a minimum of 48”. Common sence applies, there may be certain areas that frost has known to penetrate farther than 48”.
• NYS Energy Code, Heating Degree Days [HDD] 7244, weather exposure – severe.
• NYS Energy Code ResCheck- version 4.4.4 – showing in detail compliance. Use the 2010 version of the NYSECC. This is available from the NYSDOS web-site and can be downloaded and used. Please take caution to be sure the version is for Herkimer County and uses 7244 for the HDD criteria.
• Plans shall be signed by the licensed design professional, in original signature and stamp, not copied. This is the first thing this office looks for is the stamp and signature of the architect or engineer.
• Window and door schedule detailing make, model number, location, egress requirement for sleeping areas, and energy criteria.
• Elevations and / cross sections showing details of construction, materials, insulation, techniques for assembly and overall height of structure. This is taken from the lowest point anywhere around the building, to the absolute highest point, including chimney.
• Include all parts of the structure, ie: decks, porches, garages, large overhangs, fireplace bump-outs, etc. this is important not only on the construction plans, but on the survey as well. All setback requirements apply to all parts of the structure.
• The Survey… Cannot stress enough how important a competent survey is that shows all existing structures, shorelines, septic system locations [if possible], and new improvements.
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When applications come in missing information that is required by both local and state law, permits cannot be issued. What really is interesting is the number of applications being submitted, for a second time, still missing some of the basic documents.
And believe it or not, the incorrect or missing information on applications happens as often with design professionals as well as property owners, who may not necessarily know the difference.
Knowledge and understanding by the applicant helps us help them.
