Before planning your purchase of a greenhouse you will need to check with your local building or planning department to determine whether any permits are required or zoning regulations are in effect. Most municipalities will consider greenhouses and other agricultural type buildings “accessory dwellings” and won’t require permits however each area is different. We do not want you to discover after your purchase that your new greenhouse cannot be legally installed in your specific location.
Each county and city have their own individual regulations, therefore, a quick phone call to your local applicable department should give you all the information needed in determining your local requirements. Generally, if you’re outside the city limits you won’t have zoning laws with the exception of subdivisions and HOA. Within the city limits will almost always have regulations set forth determining the size of the structure, foundation requirements, setbacks from property lines, etc. If the structure is to be used for personal use only and no commercial activity will take place then the requirements are usually less.
Permanent and Non-Permanent Structures
The Different States, Cities, and Counties have individual definitions of what qualifies as a permanent or a temporary structure. Some areas define non-permanent as a structure that is taken down within 180 days. Other communities consider it to be non-permanent if it is able to be or designed to be portable. Many areas may also take into affect whether or not the structure is to be installed into concrete. Our structures are designed to be installed into individual concrete piers or footings but that does not necessarily make them permanent as some of them are able to be unbolted and moved to another location. Check with your local department to determine your specific requirements before purchasing or building any outbuildings or agricultural structures. Many areas won’t require engineered plans but should you need those we will be happy to provide them.
