I am having a problem with some accessory structure code in Michigan. Normally accessory structures under 200 ft.² in Michigan do not need a permit. Does this change if the building’s going to be used for sleeping? I am getting conflicting advice to whether or not a pre-built building can be used for sleeping quarters without a Michigan permit.
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Accessory structures in Michigan
- Thread starter Nam11
- Start date
In the end, it's gonna be his call, so it's his opinion that matters...
Standard code language from the International Residential Code (which the Michigan code is based on, the Michigan version will be similar but may be slightly different).
"Accessory structure" is a defined term in chapter 2, it means a structure that is accessory to a "dwelling". A "dwelling" is any unit that contains one or two "dwelling units". A "dwelling unit" is a single unit providing independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
If you have both plumbing and a microwave or other cooking appliance, you have a "dwelling", not an accessory structure, and therefore the exemption for being under 200 sq. ft. does not apply. It doesn't matter how small it is, it requires a permit.
If you are missing any one element for sleeping, or cooking, or sanitation, you have an accessory structure that the <200 sq. ft. exception applies to. If that is the case, local rules may still apply, as zoning and local amendments I am not privy to may have issues with structures that have the potential to become dwelling units.
Be aware that even if a project does not require a permit, it is still required to meet code, which means there should be smoke alarms installed to protect the sleepers.
Mr. Inspector
SAWHORSE
If no cooking it could be a R-1 occupancy.
Could be. I didn't think of that.
310.2 Residential Group R-1.
I think it would be a stretch to classify a building that is accessory to a single-family residence out of the IBC. However, if the structure is accessory to a commercial building, making it an R occupancy would be entirely reasonable.
310.2 Residential Group R-1.
Residential Group R-1 occupancies containing sleeping units where the occupants are primarily transient in nature, including:
- Boarding houses (transient) with more than 10 occupants
- Congregate living facilities (transient) with more than 10 occupants
- Hotels (transient)
- Motels (transient)
I think it would be a stretch to classify a building that is accessory to a single-family residence out of the IBC. However, if the structure is accessory to a commercial building, making it an R occupancy would be entirely reasonable.