Two story shack project - looking for some input

[Jim Timber]

I don't know that they even care. I can claim Ag use and probably not even need a permit. I want to at least be able to get a CoO (without running water - the Amish can) in the event I need to declare it my legal residence.

 

[West Branch]

I think a lot of the northern counties just want a location type permit so they know where the building is going to be located in relation to roads, wells, bodies of water, etc. It probably depends on how developed the area is already. In our area I would be surprised to hear about someone getting a permit for a shack like that. A lot of shacks and cabins are temporary buildings that could be moved so we figure no permits needed ;).

 

[Jim Timber]

Since this one's two stories and will be livable, I need to make it fixed. I had wanted to build it on skids, but the height and chance of problems with tornados made me agree with others who insisted it be better anchored down. The deck will need footings anyway, so the whole shack is going where it's going and staying there.

Crow Wing county is very anal about getting permission in advance. They use aerial to track unauthorized construction every couple years, and they charge you 3x the permit cost if you're caught. Permits should be under 200 for this place, so I'm not batting an eye to paying them up front. My 840sf shop in the metro was $750 for the plan review and building permit.

Once this place is closed in, I'll get a mailing address and my own fire number. :) Currently there's no way to indicate it as the destination anywhere without using some other address as a reference.

 

[Jim Timber]

So I went to talk code today only to find out there isn't one. You need a building permit, you need to comply with the setbacks and riparian zone rules, and beyond that you're on your own.

This is refreshing and terrifying at the same time! It also explains a lot about the county. :)

 

[foggy]

Yep, no codes and little inspection up in the pine country. I was a little surprised at how little interest the countY or city has in what gets built. It's "let the buyer beware" on construction practices.