Remodeling Ordinance Part II
People were amazed that the June 24 City Council meeting discussion of changes to the remodeling ordinance (see our Special Edition June 21 Newsletter re-posted below) went as quickly and smoothly as it did. After years of heated discussions, including outright fights about new rules, city council members unanimously adopted new rules governing home remodeling. An alliance between two planning commissioners who had been at opposite ends of the McMansion ordinance several years ago re-focused the discussion on what was really important: making sure that remodels were done safely and to code. In the past, shady contractors were known to tear down all but a small portion of a home so that construction would be considered a re-model and could be grandfathered into the current code. That time is past.
What’s in the new law?
- No more than 0.5 percent of exterior walls and supporting structural elements of an existing structure that does not comply with current code may be demolished or removed and still be considered a remodel
- If a portion of a demolished structure had been in violation of code, it must be re-built in compliance with current code.
- An added inspection requirement: Within seven days of an application, a city inspector will travel to a site to ensure that rules are being followed.
You can review the full text on the City of Austin website: http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/development/downloads/09_005_res_remodel_regs.pdf
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Our Original Newsletter Text from June 21, 2010:
Austin City Council Sets Hearing To Discuss Amending Remodeling Code
A public hearing to consider the ordinance amending the City Code related to residential remodeling has been set for June 24, 2010, at 4 p.m., at Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second St.
If you are considering remodeling your home, you may be interested in attending this hearing. The proposed changes may affect your ability to add-on or do significant reconstruction to your home. It is anticipated that this ordinance may have a similar impact in our housing market that the McMansion Ordinance has had.
For more information about the proposed changes, the city has provided Backup Material. We will keep you informed as well.
