treehouse

[wwhitney]

So if zoning does not allow 2 separate dwelling units on a lot, and ADU is not permitted?

Zoning likely uses its own definitions rather than relying on the building code; you'd have to check your particular zoning code and parse its definitions. It is possible for a structure to be an ADU for the zoning code, but not a dwelling for the building code, for example.

So even just a bunk house - a bedroom by another name - is not in your view and accessory structure

A structure with just a bedroom is not a dwelling, see the IRC definitions of "dwelling" and "dwelling unit".

So an important question is whether your treehouse will actually be a "dwelling" or not. If it doesn't meet the definition of "dwelling" then I agree it's an accessory structure, building code wise.

Cheers, Wayne

 

[bill1952]

Zoning likely uses its own definitions rather than relying on the building code; you'd have to check your particular zoning code and parse its definitions. It is possible for a structure to be an ADU for the zoning code, but not a dwelling for the building code, for example.


A structure with just a bedroom is not a dwelling, see the IRC definitions of "dwelling" and "dwelling unit".

So an important question is whether your treehouse will actually be a "dwelling" or not. If it doesn't meet the definition of "dwelling" then I agree it's an accessory structure, building code wise.

Cheers, Wayne

I don't have a lot of experience with air bnb but I would guess a lot are not "dwelling units". I'm struggling with dwelling vs dwelling unit vs adu. I feel what constitutes "provisions for cooking" could be debatable.

[RB]DWELLING. Any building that contains one or two dwelling units used, intended, or designed to be built, used, rented, leased, let or hired out to be occupied, or that are occupied for living purposes.
[RB]DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.

 

[steveray]

When in doubt it is part of the dwelling...

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

To begin with, there are many treehouses that are short term rentals.

Courtesy of a member here: https://shorturl.at/vvkpD

Your take on ADUs, not the code's. I don't see ADUs as related to income And you're conflating an ownership question with safety.

1. I never said there are no treehouses being rented. I have read articles on the subject. Some are quite luxurious.

2. The building code does not address ownership at all, only use and occupancy. The issue of ADUs is predominately a planning and zoning issue, not a building code issue. You may not see ADUs as being related to income, but in many of the discussions about whether or not to allow them, income is very much a part of the discussion. Not income for the owners/landlords, but the notions of increasing the supply of smaller, more affordable rental dwellings for people with limited incomes.

 

[socaldano]

A client of my son wants him to build a treehouse as a air BNB. On owners home property so an accessory structure. I seem to recall in NY - and I'll look it up - but 150 SF does not require a permit. If it does require a permit, can a tree qualify as a foundation?

And if it is exempt from permit, it still has to meet all the code requirements, correct?

Thanks.

Not an expert, not quoting code.... I would do it as a raised building (design for flood areas) which LOOKS like a treehouse. Even though as a child we built dozens of tree houses that withstood 60-80 mph winds... Remember, if someone gets hurt and they sue you because of substandard design...bad things happen.

As in Missouri, we are forced to "Raise" some houses that got flooded, some 3', some 8'. The way used is to use 8x8 or 4x4 posts, like on my last patio roof as the support for the floor (the patio roof was designed so it may be used as a floor for a second floor). But almost certainly you will need to draw it up, and present to a professional engineer to design it... usually $1,000 to $2,000. And usually, you can talk to the local building inspector to find out if he is OK with it and what HE wants you to do before you do it.
Rules in my area is the holes need to be inverted mushroom 30" deep, filled with cement. The building inspector prefers Simpson tie brackets to attach posts to the concrete. It seems really unstable until you put in the cieling/floor OSB or plywood.