Before launching My Site Plan, I dedicated 15 years to the Demolition and General Engineering sector, where our team successfully completed the removal of over 1,000 swimming pools. The process of eliminating a swimming pool is generally uniform regardless of location, though the specifics of permit regulations may differ from one municipality to another. To address this, we developed a comprehensive pool removal methodology that consistently satisfies or surpasses the criteria set by various building departments.
The process of swimming pool extraction demands meticulous preparation, adherence to regulations, and, in some instances, the engagement of specialized experts to ensure a smooth operation. We have outlined the crucial steps involved in this intricate project to assist both homeowners and contractors in navigating pool removal with ease, aiming for a process as tranquil as swimming itself.
Before embarking on any significant construction or demolition project, obtaining the requisite permits is crucial. The absence of necessary permissions can halt your project abruptly. It's essential to:
Research Local Regulations: Understand the local building department's regulations on swimming pool removal as they can significantly influence your project's overall scope and expenses.
Acquire Necessary Permits: Typically, building departments provide an expedited process for obtaining a swimming pool removal permit. This process involves securing approval, completing requisite forms, and submitting a detailed site plan showcasing the pool's position relative to the house, property boundaries, trees, and other structures. My Site Plan is at your service for acquiring a site plan tailored to your pool removal permit needs.
In certain cases, a soil engineer's insight on the intended procedure might be requested. Neglecting the permit process can lead to substantial fines and legal issues, underscoring the importance of this step.
Draining the pool is a preliminary yet crucial step in the pool removal process. However, this task must be approached with caution:
Proper Drainage Techniques: Incorrect draining can cause structural damage or turn your yard into a quagmire. Collaborating with professionals ensures the safe and efficient drainage of your pool, usually through the sewer clean-out, although a permit may be required for this action by most sanitation districts.
Environmental Considerations: It's vital to drain the pool carefully to prevent environmental harm from chemicals and debris. Local regulations may also impact your draining strategy, emphasizing the need to lower chlorine levels in the water well before the drainage.
Following the drainage, the demolition of the pool commences, marking a critical and potentially hazardous stage that demands precision:
Correct backfilling is essential to prevent future ground instability:
Finalizing the project involves grading the site to ensure proper drainage away from the home and restoring the landscape to its desired state, whether it's for further construction or beautification.
This guide distills years of professional experience into actionable steps, aiming to simplify the pool removal process for homeowners and contractors alike. Our swimming pool fill dirt calculator further aids in planning by estimating the amount of fill dirt required, considering factors like compaction and the specific pool removal method. This comprehensive approach ensures that your pool removal project is executed professionally and efficiently, paving the way for a transformed outdoor space.
Question | Answer |
---|---|
How long does the swimming pool removal process typically take? | The entire process can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the job, the type of pool, and weather conditions. |
Can I remove my swimming pool myself, or do I need to hire professionals? | While it's possible for a homeowner to undertake some parts of the process, professional involvement is crucial for aspects like obtaining permits, ensuring proper drainage, and handling heavy machinery. |
What are the most common challenges faced during the swimming pool removal process? | Common challenges include obtaining the necessary permits, ensuring proper drainage to avoid environmental damage, selecting the right soil for backfill, and compacting the soil properly to avoid future subsidence. |
How can I ensure my pool removal project complies with all local environmental regulations? | Research local regulations thoroughly and work with professionals who understand how to manage pool chemicals and debris responsibly. Ensuring the chlorine level is significantly lowered before draining is a critical step. |
What happens if I encounter underground utilities during the pool removal process? | It's essential to call 811 for a "Before You Dig" check to map out any utilities. If utilities are encountered, professional adjustments or rerouting may be necessary. |
How does the removal of a swimming pool affect my property value? | The impact on property value can vary. In some cases, removing a pool may increase the appeal and marketability of a property to a broader range of buyers, potentially increasing its value. |
What is the best time of year to undertake a swimming pool removal project? | The best time is during dry seasons to avoid complications from rain. However, it largely depends on your local climate and soil conditions. Winter months might be less ideal due to ground freezing in colder climates. |
Pre-Application Preparation: Laying the Groundwork for Success
A successful building permit application in Canada starts with meticulous preparation. Begin by compiling all necessary documents, typically including:
Understanding Local Regulations: Navigating Canadian Standards
Building codes and zoning laws vary significantly across Canadian municipalities. Gaining a thorough understanding of these regulations is essential. This involves:
This knowledge helps tailor your application to comply with local Canadian rules, reducing the risk of rejection.
Professional Consultation: Leveraging Expertise in Canada
The complexity of Canadian building codes and the permitting process often calls for professional advice. Engaging with architects, engineers, or specialized permit services in Canada offers numerous benefits:
Investing in expert consultation can prevent common errors, saving time and resources.
The Art of Follow-Up: Advancing Your Application
After submission, proactive follow-up is key to advancing your project:
Effective communication highlights your commitment to compliance and can positively impact the review timeline.
Leveraging Technology: Modernizing Your Permit Application in Canada
Digital solutions can significantly streamline the permit application process. Many Canadian municipalities now accept online submissions, offering advantages like faster processing times, convenience, and real-time application tracking. Utilizing online tools can accelerate your application and keep you focused on preparing for your project's next phases.
Pitfalls to Avoid in the Canadian Building Permit Process
Common mistakes include overlooking the importance of detailed documentation and not familiarizing oneself with local Canadian codes and regulations, which can lead to delays or costly changes. Additionally, neglecting proactive communication with the permitting authority can hinder the process. Avoiding these errors facilitates a smoother permit acquisition and project start.
Conclusion: Ensuring a Smooth Permit Approval Process in Canada
Adopting a strategic approach to the building permit application process in Canada can minimize delays and support a smoother project initiation. Thorough preparation, adherence to regulations, professional guidance, diligent follow-up, and the use of technology are key. This guide aims to simplify the Canadian building permit process, laying the foundation for a successful construction or renovation project, enabling you to realize your vision and exceed project expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Question | Answer |
---|---|
How long does it typically take to get a building permit approved in Canada? | Approval times vary by municipality and project complexity, ranging from a few weeks to several months. Check with your local building department for an accurate timeline. |
Are there different types of building permits in Canada? | Yes, there are several types, including structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits, each addressing different construction or renovation aspects. |
Can changes to the project be made after the building permit is issued? | Minor changes may not affect the permit, but significant alterations could require a revised application or a new permit. Consult with your local building department before making any changes. |
What happens if I proceed without a building permit in Canada? | You may face fines, be required to halt construction, or need to remove or redo the work at your expense. |
Is it necessary to have a building permit for minor renovations in Canada? | It depends on the nature of the renovations and local regulations. Structural, electrical, or plumbing work usually requires a permit, while minor cosmetic updates often do not. |
How much does a building permit cost in Canada? | Costs vary widely based on location and project scope, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Contact your local building department for specific fees. |
Can a building permit be denied, and what can I do if it is? | Permits can be denied for non-compliance with regulations. If denied, you can revise your plans to comply and resubmit, or appeal the decision. |
Do I need to display the building permit at the construction site? | Yes, permits should be displayed prominently at the site, visible to inspectors and officials. |
How can I find out about the zoning regulations in my area? | Zoning information is available from your local municipal office or their website, often including maps and detailed bylaws. |
What role do inspectors play in the building permit process? | Inspectors verify compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and approved plans, conducting site visits at various construction stages. |
]]>
Introduction to Site Plans
A site plan acts as a critical tool in the planning and execution phases of construction and landscaping projects. It illustrates the existing conditions of a property and the proposed changes, serving as a visual guide that encompasses all structural and natural elements. This guide aims to simplify the process of creating a site plan, making it accessible to both homeowners embarking on DIY projects and contractors seeking to enhance their operational efficiency.
Preparation for Drawing a Site Plan
Before you start drafting your site plan, understanding its purpose and assembling the right tools are crucial steps. Whether your site plan is intended for personal use or as a submission for a permit, the level of detail required may vary. Ensuring a clear workspace and having the right tools, including drafting software or traditional drawing instruments, is essential for creating an accurate plan.
Obtaining Property Line Information
Accurate property lines are the cornerstone of a reliable site plan. In Canada, Geographic Information System (GIS) platforms offer an accessible means to obtain detailed property data. This guide will navigate you through the process of leveraging GIS data to ensure your site plan accurately reflects your property's boundaries.
Accessing Geographic Information System (GIS) Platforms
In Canada, accessing Geographic Information System (GIS) platforms is a vital step for accurately determining property lines and understanding the geographical features of your property. Most local governments offer free access to GIS data online, providing a wealth of information crucial for your site plan.
Should you encounter any difficulties accessing the necessary information, don't hesitate to contact local officials for assistance. They can provide guidance on how to use the GIS tools effectively or offer alternative methods to obtain the data you need.
Incorporating GIS data into your site planning process not only enhances the accuracy of your site plan but also provides a comprehensive understanding of your property's characteristics and constraints. This knowledge is essential for making informed decisions throughout your project, from design to implementation.
Choosing the Right Tools and Software
With advancements in technology, a variety of software options are available to facilitate site plan creation. This section compares digital tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Illustrator against traditional manual drawing methods, helping you choose the right approach based on your project's needs.
AutoCAD
AutoCAD is renowned in architectural and engineering design software for its precision and extensive toolset, ideal for detailed site plans requiring exact measurements and technical details. However, its complexity and cost may deter some DIY enthusiasts.
SketchUp
SketchUp is favored for its user-friendly interface and 3D modeling capabilities, offering a balance between functionality and accessibility. It's particularly suited for projects emphasizing visual representation and conceptual design.
Adobe Illustrator
Though not a traditional architectural tool, Adobe Illustrator provides creative flexibility and powerful graphic capabilities for crafting visually appealing site plans, suitable for presentation-ready designs rather than technical drawings requiring precise scale.
Manual Site Plan Drawing
For those who prefer a hands-on approach or do not have access to digital drawing tools, manual drawing remains a viable option. To start a manual site plan, you'll need a few basic tools:
When choosing your drawing tools, prioritize quality to ensure precision. For instance, mechanical pencils with fine leads are excellent for clean, sharp lines. Select graph paper with a grid size that will comfortably fit the entire site while allowing you to work in enough detail. The traditional process involves starting with a rough sketch and then refining it into a more precise drawing. Always begin by establishing a scale, such as 1 inch on paper to 10 feet on the property, which will keep your drawing consistent and to size.
Conducting On-the-Ground Measurements
The accuracy of your site plan hinges on precise measurements of your property. This segment delves into the methods and tools for measuring your property, from tape measures to GPS devices, ensuring your site plan is built on a foundation of reliable data.
Methods for Measuring Your Property
Accurate measurement is crucial for creating a dependable site plan. To achieve precision, various tools and techniques are available:
Tips for Accurate Measurements
To enhance the accuracy of your property measurements, consider these guidelines:
In subsequent sections, we'll walk you through how to translate these measurements onto paper, crafting a refined and accurate site plan. Whether you opt for digital drafting software or the classic manual drawing method, with the right tools and methods, you can develop a detailed site plan for your project. By adhering to these tips and leveraging available resources, you're on the path to creating a precise depiction of your property. Remember, practice leads to perfection. Don't be deterred by initial challenges. With perseverance and patience, you'll produce a professional site plan swiftly. So, why delay? Begin your project planning today and enjoy the design process!
Drawing the Site Plan
Drawing your site plan involves several steps, from establishing a drawing scale to outlining property boundaries and adding key features. This guide provides detailed instructions for each phase of the drawing process, ensuring your site plan is both comprehensive and clear.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Drawing Your Site Plan
Finalizing and Reviewing the Site Plan
The final stage in creating your site plan involves a thorough review to ensure accuracy and compliance with local regulations. Strategies for finalizing your site plan include seeking feedback, consulting professionals, and ensuring all elements are accurately represented.
Strategies for Finalizing Your Site Plan
By methodically following these steps, you can ensure that your site plan accurately reflects your project while meeting all practical, legal, and regulatory requirements.
FAQs
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Why is it important to include utilities in my site plan? | Including utilities ensures you plan around important infrastructure like water, gas, and electricity lines, preventing costly damages and ensuring your project adheres to safety standards. |
Can I use any online map for my site plan's base? | Online maps can provide a helpful starting point, but ensure they are up-to-date and accurate. For detailed planning, supplement with actual measurements and official GIS data. |
How do I choose between digital and manual drawing methods? | Consider your comfort level with technology, the complexity of your project, and the tools you have. Digital methods offer precision and ease of editing, while manual drawing might be more accessible for some. |
What's the significance of setting a drawing scale? | A drawing scale ensures that everything on your site plan is proportionate to real-life dimensions, making your plan useful for planning and construction purposes. |
How detailed should my site plan be? | Your site plan should include all critical elements like property lines, structures, major natural features, and utilities. The level of detail often depends on the project's scope and any specific requirements for permits. |
What do I do if I can't access GIS data for my property? | If GIS data isn't available, consider using property deeds, previous surveys, or contacting a local surveyor for professional assistance in determining your property lines and features. |
How often should I check for zoning regulations when planning my project? | Check zoning regulations early in your planning process to ensure compliance and revisit them if project specifications change. This can prevent legal issues and project delays. |
Can I submit a hand-drawn site plan for a building permit? | Many local authorities accept hand-drawn site plans for permits, provided they meet specific criteria for clarity, scale, and detail. Check with your local planning department for their requirements. |
How can I ensure my site plan gets approved by local authorities? | To increase the chances of approval, ensure your site plan is accurate, follows all local zoning and building codes, includes all required elements, and is presented clearly. Consulting with local planning officials during the planning stage can also be beneficial. |
What should I do if my project changes significantly after I've made my site plan? | Update your site plan to reflect any significant changes, ensuring it remains a reliable guide for your project. If the changes affect compliance with local regulations or permit requirements, you may need to submit the revised plan for approval. |
Conclusion
Creating a site plan is a crucial step in any construction or landscaping project, providing a clear roadmap for the development of a property. By following the steps outlined in this guide, DIY homeowners and contractors in Canada can effectively plan their projects, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and success. With the right preparation,
]]>
Local governments designate land for specific purposes, “zoning” it into one of several different categories – typically residential or commercial. If you have a need to make a property alteration that does not fit with your current zoning category, you will need to apply for a conditional use permit to have permission to make that alteration.
Why?
Because your local government must approve your alteration before you get started. A conditional use permit makes this possible.
But before you can even approach the zoning committee with a conditional use permit, you need a site plan.
Your conditional use permit application requires a site plan to show that your proposed changes make sense for the property in question.
How does a site plan do this?
It shows a bird’s eye view of your property, its structures, and its topography. It also includes other important information in conjunction with the conditional use permit, including the following:
It’s essential that your conditional use permit shows that any alterations or additions you make will not have a negative impact on the existing systems, features, or structures.
In short, the local government needs a clear picture of the overall plan to be able to approve your conditional use permit, and a site plan helps provide them with this.
You may already have a site plan in your possession. Locate your files from when you closed on your home. The site plan should already be in those files. If not, check with your mortgage lender or title insurance provider. They should also be able to provide you with a copy.
Another quick way to get a site plan is to go to your county government offices and request a copy. They may be able to provide you a hard copy or a digital file for a small fee.
You can also contact your home builder and request a copy. They may have a site plan of your property in their files – if it hasn’t been too long since your home was built.
If you need a site plan quick, though, one of the best options is to place an online order with MySitePlan.The service uses satellite images and county maps to create an accurate site plan for you.
How fast are we? Contact us today to get your site plan in 24 hours or less!
]]>
A site plan is a top view, birds eye view of a property that is drawn to scale. A site plan shows a building footprint, travel-ways, parking, drainage facilities, sanitary sewer lines, water lines, trails, lighting, landscaping and garden elements. MySitePlan.com is proud to offer other concept services as well.
Check those out atMySitePlan.comServices
*Please keep in mind that we will need detailed information from you, the client, in order to add in any features that are not able to be seen via satellite imaging.
Simply Fill in the Custom Quote Form and Submit it. Our drafting team will review your needs and email you with the number of " Custom Hours" needed to complete your siteplan.
Once you have received an email with the number of hours needed, you will head over to the pricing page and click on "Custom Hourly".
For every hour needed, you will simply push the "+" sign to add the cost for each additional hour.
Once the hours have been added to the cart, submit payment and your project will proceed. Keep in mind that the timeline for our custom hourly work varies and does not fall under our 24 hour turn around guarantee.
In order to process your site plan, we will need at least the address for the property. Don't have an address? Thats ok! We can go off of the parcel number of your property.
Many projects include the addition of a feature or structure to the existing property. This can be anything from a fence to a shed or deck to a new septic tank. If your plan will need to have any feature drawn in by our drafters, you will need to choose the appropriate number of features and add it to your order.
These are contour lines that will show elevations on your property. We use USGS available topography which is available in 2-5 foot intervals. To learn more about topography, please check out our blog article here What is Topography.
File Type- All site plans are delivered in a PDF format which is the most universally accepted printing format. During checkout you will also have an option to order the DWG file which is the AutoCAD source file. If you select this option we will zip that file and send it to you as well.
Vicinity Map-A vicinity map is a small map in the upper corner of the site plan that shows the subject property relative to the surrounding area.
Need your siteplan in less than 24 hours? We've got you covered with our RUSH option. For a $40 fee we guarantee delivery of your siteplan in less than 12 hours.
Congratulations! You are now ready to submit your order and are almost 24 hours away from receiving your plan.
In the top right corner is your shopping cart. Click on the cart to review your order summary.
Click Check Out to fill out your payment Information.
As soon as we receive payment for your order, your project will be assigned to a Designer. Once they complete your order they will send it to you via email, where you will then need to take the file to a print shop and have it printed on a 11x17 size paper at 100% zoom.
If you need any further help with your plan, you will need to email your assigned designer back with your proposed revisions. This is the fastest way to ensure that we get you the changes you need in a timely manner
We value our returning customers and want to reward your loyalty! Make sure and log into your account every time you order to earn points toward future savings!
From all of us here at MySitePlan.com, thank you for your business and happy planning!
]]>Did you know that what is required by your county, may not be required by a different one? This is why we stress the importance of communicating with your county zoning department and nailing down exactly what they will require to be shown on your site plan. Once you have obtained the correct requirement information from your specific county or city, we can help guide you to exactly the right type of site plan on our website.
There are several different types of permits in construction. You might even need a combination of these. Structural, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical are common types of permits required by zoning departments.
What Type of Permit does mysiteplan.com work for?
Our aerial view plans work in partner with these other types of more detailed plans to build your permit application package and are great for these permits:
Demolition-Conditional Use-Construction-Sign permits-Residential-Commercial-Tree Removal-Swimming Pool Removal-Exterior Home Renovations-HOA
If you are planning to do the work yourself, the process of obtaining a building permit usually goes something like this:
The start to finish process of obtaining a building permit can be somewhat daunting at times. It is important to us to be the component in your project that is not complicated. To help us in our mission, the best thing our customers can do is to check in with their zoning departments to make sure the requirements for your plan is clear. Ask yourself these questions...
Does my plan require a stamp or seal?
Are my property and property features shown clearly via satellite imagery?
If utilities need to be shown, do I have the measurements and dimensions to provide mysiteplan.com?
Have I used the mysiteplan.com plan comparison chart to make sure my site plan includes what I need?
Need help getting started? Check out our Quickstart Guide! In this article we provide you detailed step by step guide to help you complete and submit your site plan order.
Still have questions? We have prompt and friendly customer service available to you 5 days a week from 8am to 4pm PST.
1-800-228-9723
to·pog·ra·phy- A detailed description or representation on a map of the natural and artificial physical features of an area.
]]>A detailed description or representation on a map of the natural and artificial physical features of an area.
Its a gorgeous morning and you are out hiking on your favorite trail. The terrain is steep and the ground uneven. You manage to tip toe across a stream without getting your boots wet. You make it to the top and peer over the hills and valleys you have just risen above. You made it.
So just how do those rivers and steep trails translate onto paper?
Topographic maps represent the three-dimensional landscape in two dimensions. We can find out the location of peaks, valleys, ridges among other land features. These maps can also show you whether you will be traveling uphill or downhill on a particular road or trail.
Elevations on a topographical map are marked with contour lines, which connect points of equal elevation. Imagine walking around a mountain in a circle, never going uphill and never going downhill but staying at the same altitude. If you traced the path you walked, you would have a contour line on a map. Contour lines are typically separated by 40 vertical feet, though you should check the map you're using to be sure, and every fifth contour line is usually marked with an actual elevation.
The shape of the contour lines can tell you the shape of the landforms in a particular area. For example, concentric circles show a peak, with the smallest circle marking the summit. Contour lines that are close together indicate that the land is very steep, while contour lines that are spread apart show that the land is relatively flat.
Every project is unique and so is the earth beneath it. Soil type, Ground conditions and stability are essential to determine whether the property is suitable for a particular type of building as well as the best place for the structure to go. Topography also has a large impact on just how the soil is formed. Where does all that rain go? It doesn't just stay up on that mountain top. How does that effect the soil below? All of these details make up the topographical picture of our homes and businesses.
Did you know that the U.S. Geological Survey began surveying land in 1879 in order to create these commercially accessible topographical maps? There are more than 54,000 in existence today. We at mysiteplan.ca use the information from these maps to add contour lines in 2-5 foot intervals on your custom siteplan.
Notice the contour lines in this image? The lines that are closer together indicate a steeper elevation and the lines farther apart indicate a wider plain.
The next time you step onto the road less traveled, you may start to see those rolling hills, valleys and streams a bit differently and understand just how every elevation and even the soil might effect your next building project.
discover how the concept of “scale” is vital to the development of not only these structures, but how important it is in creating site plans for each of our clients.]]>
The significance of “scale” is all around us. From the homes we live in to the sky scrapers we stand in awe of,
every one of these structures started out as a piece of land and a dream. How did these dreams become reality? In this article we will
discover how the concept of “scale” is vital to the development of not only these structures, but how important it is in creating site plans for each of our clients.
We will also study an engineer scalevs. an architect scaleand what exactly the difference is between them.
In drafting, architecture and engineering the term “scale”
has two meanings. Scale, as a concept, is a standard range of values forming a standard system for measuring or grading something. How does this translate into a design? These dimensions are used by a drafter to accurately represent the structure shown in a plan.
A “scale” is also a ruler used in drawing and measuring architectural and engineering plans.
There are two types of scales, or rulers. An engineer scale and an architect scale.
The architect's scale is used by architects and builders for obtaining measurements from scaled drawings of buildings and other structures. It is typically three-sided with 11 scales or flat with 4 scales. It is available in lengths ranging from 4" to 36" although 12" models are most common. Once made primarily from wood, most architect's scales are now made from plastic, aluminum, and stainless steel.
Common scales for a triangular architect's scale are: 16 (full), 3, 1-1/2, 1, 3/4, 1/2, 3/8, 1/4, 1/16, 1/8, 3/32. Major divisions of each scale represent feet which are further subdivided into 12ths or 16ths. A scale labeled 1/8 translates to 1/8" = 1' or 1/96 scale. The 16 or full scale is a standard ruler with each mark representing 1/16". An architect's scale is read from the left or right side depending on the scale being used.
The engineer's scale, also known as a civil scale, is used for measuring length and transferring length measurements at different scales or proportions of actual length. It is triangular in cross-section with each of the three faces containing two different scale markings for a total of six scales. In North America, the scales are labeled 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60, with the graduations representing decimal fractions of an inch. Thus, one inch on a drawing equals between 10 to 60 feet.
The engineer's scale is usually made from plastic and is slightly over 12 inches in length, but with only 12 inches of markings, leaving the ends unmarked. The extra length accounts for wear and tear over time and prevents the end ticks from wearing off.
Although similar in appearance to an architect’s scale, the engineering scale is designed to be more precise and has a decimal scaling scheme whereas an architect's scale uses fractional scaling. It is designed to only be read from left to right. An architect's scale can be read from either the left or right side.
Remember that dream and a piece of land? Having the correct scale will directly determine how walls become rooms and dirt becomes roads.
Scale drawings assign each object the same scale compared to the actual objects. The space outlined on a scale drawing is also reduced by the same ratio as the objects included in the plan. If a drawing isn't to scale, there's no guarantee that each object on the plan will fit into the real space. An accurate scale drawing lets you see exactly how each component will fit and how much space you'll have, both empty and filled.
Whether you are addressing space concerns, adding or rearranging components or even working on multiple designs, scale will always play a key role in the planning of your project.
Here are a few advantages of having the site plan rendering:
Comparison of different models:
This is more popular among the building industry and real estate owners as they get an idea of how a particular design would look like in the given locality. It also helps them to assess the neighbourhood and the potential amenities. The construction companies and real estate agents can then negotiate with the buyers and offer them their desired type of home or office space.
Handle your spouse’s “fear of the unknown”:
This is to refer to the fact that when you try to make any additions like having a work shed or a sewing room, your spouse may have his/her reservation as to how it would really look like or how the rest of the home would be affected by the plan. In such case, the site plan rendering comes in handy as it clears the air by giving you a factual picture after the additions.
A peek into the future:
As for instance, if you want to have your very own playground for your kids, here is your chance of how things would change after you implement the idea. Not just this, you can easily experiment with the site plan rendering as you can add or remove things as and how you feel like. The visual representation of your future place gives you an idea about the possibilities by which you can improve your plan.
Well, getting started with the site plan rendering is very simple. All you have to do is to contact our office and get it done.
]]>The first and the most important aspect is the financial consideration. Yes! Before you finally initiate the renovation, you should first analyze how it will effect the market value of your house. Well, it is pivotal because in some cases, people end up with the decreased value of their property. It is strongly recommended to consult some real estate agent as they are the best people to assess the market changes at a given point in time.
Next, you need to be aware of the legal restrictions regarding parking lots as there are some laws which bind the owners to have fixed number of parking spots, so the consequences of not abiding by the law may be harsh.
Depending upon the market valuation trends, you may have an added advantage of having your property value increased due to the conversion of garage in to living area as there is additional living space. Conversion, when on one hand, comes in handy as you have the walls already built, you can convert it into any of the type of room like a bedroom, gym, children’s play area or even office. On the other hand, you have to be careful about certain things.
Insulation: The electrical connections are not mostly insulated in garages. So it is important to altogether remove the drywall and reinstall it with insulation.
Garage Door: The same goes for the garage door. Decide according to your plan that if you want to utilize the same door, you will have to remove and the reinstall after insulation.
Floor Height: The floor levels of a garage are mostly lower than that of the rest of the house and it is preferred to have it raised up to the level of the house in order to keep the consistency. The best way to go about it is to have sleepers installed.
]]>Be aware of the dimensions:
Well! The first thing is the size adjustments. The master bedroom is supposed to be big enough. Although the garages are usually suit to be converted but you still have to consider if the dimensions fit perfectly. The floor plan in 2D even makes it easier for you to visualize the setting up of your furniture in the master bedroom after conversion. In fact, the dimensions and size of the two spaces can be well adjusted by virtue of the 2D floor plan and you can manage the position of washroom attached to the bedroom.
Plan the plumbing and electric fittings:
The next related thing with the size and location of the garage or future bedroom is the plumbing for bathroom and electricity. Ideally, the bathroom is supposed to be attached to the master bedroom and you have to get the sanitary and plumbing fittings accordingly.
Similarly, if your garage is already having enough electric supply, it will be easier for you to initiate the renovation. Alternatively carefully consider the number of electric sockets you want to have in your bedroom along with their positions.
Consider the orientation of doors and windows:
Then comes the overall design, position and orientation of the doors and windows in your master bedroom. Although it depends on the current location of the garage whether it is attached with the rest of the house or a stand-alone garage but still you need to bear in mind that you have to adjust the position of the door in accordance with its current orientation in the garage.
As for windows, a garage usually does not have that much ventilation but your master bedroom should have proper rather fancy windows as it needs to be spacious and airy. So, a floor plan in 2D might be helpful to you in designing and adjusting the appropriate positioning of windows in your bedroom. In addition, you will be able to modify the floor plan in 2D according to the direction of sunlight and air currents.]]>Getting married is one of the milestones of life and it brings with it a lot of new people in your life who expect a lot from you. You need to prove your abilities to your in-laws. Well, there are many ways in which you can try to leave a positive impression on your in-laws, one of which is presenting an awesome floor plan for your new apartment.
What a floor plan describes about your personality?
Planning:
Being a good planner is indeed one of the rarest qualities of a person. You learn to organize while planning a floor plan and it highlights your hidden qualities as a good planner and organizer in front of your mother-in- law. Your in-laws are bound to appreciate your disciplined nature and you will justify their choice.
Realist approach:
Another positive quality which will come to the front is your realistic approach. Developing a floor plan is a relatively difficult task as you need to consider the nitty gritty of the plan and putting the pieces together is a tall task. If you successfully manage to do it, this will be certainly an applaudable achievement.
Accommodating each other:
Well! Marriage is one relationship in which you accept each other with all your strengths and weaknesses. Not just this, but there are many other physical things which you must cope up with after the marriage. As for example, if your spouse has a strong reading habit, you may come up with a mini-library in your floor plan. This is one way in which you show your acceptance and approval for his or her habits. This will undoubtedly speak volumes about your sense of sharing and your in-laws would realize that their child has now someone else in life who can take care of him or her.
Managing the space:
Managing the space such that the family fits in it properly is another important thing which will impress your in-laws. Developing a floor plan which takes into consideration all the needs of both the spouses also increases mutual love and understanding.
A floor plan plays an important role as it helps you to plan what things you need to move in to space. In addition, it is one of the easiest ways in which you can express yourself and your aesthetic sense can be best utilized in this way.
]]>Here are some reasons for making a 3D floor plan for a space with a loft:
Managing the height:
The height of the loft plays an important role to determine how to ensure privacy. Especially if you are utilizing the loft as a bedroom, the height is crucial as in the noise travels in and out of your room. The 3D floor plan gives you a better idea as to how to manage the height of your lofted bedroom without compromising the privacy. Similarly, you can be more creative if you already have in mind how exactly you want your bedroom height should be.
Playing with the space:
This is to refer to the fact that you can easily setup your lofted room with the help of the 3D floor plan. For instance, you surely would not like the visitors to have the visibility of the whole space. For that matter, you need to setup the furniture such that they get to see only the visible area of the lofted room as you would please. You can place items like study table or a treadmill in the visible area so that they could not see where is your bed placed.
Attracting people:
A 3D floor plan helps you to settle down according to your intention as if you have set up a game room or toy room in the lofted space, you would definitely like to draw the attention of your guests and to bring them up the room. For that matter, you can have a 3D floor plan as it will make it easier for you to consider the suitable spaces in the room where you can keep your toys.
]]>Interior design is about how a space looks from the inside. Site plan drawing allows you to design the area around the outside of your property.
At first glance, it would seem like one has nothing to do with the other. However, good site plan drawing can increase the interior and exterior beauty of your home… while foregoing a site plan may leave you dealing with a frustrating, unsightly mess.
How so? It comes down to windows, really. What do you want to see when you’re on the inside looking out?
A good site plan drawing will take this into account when choosing where to put things like:
Trees. If you live in a neighborhood where your view otherwise looks out right onto your neighbors’ houses or something else that you’re not all that interested in seeing, a few well-placed trees can block these eyesores from your view and allow you to enjoy nature instead.
However, if your home is situated somewhere with a fantastic view – on a lake, perhaps, or with a mountain in the background – they last thing you probably want is trees getting in the way of it.
Driveway. Unless the look of your driveway is part of the overall effect you want for your home, chances are you’d rather not be staring out at it while eating dinner. With a well-thought-out site plan drawing, you can position your driveway in the best possible place to minimize its impact on your view.
Exterior structures. Maybe you want to have a barn or a shed on your property. Or you live on a property with electrical boxes and other types of maintenance equipment that have to be aboveground. A site plan can show you where these things will be so you can plan your view around them. Or, if that’s not possible, it gives you a chance to do things to make them more visually appealing.
Gardens, fountains, and more. Perhaps you plan to put a gorgeous fountain on your property. Or impressive statuary. Flowers. A garden. You get the idea – something that will help to beautify your outdoor area. A site plan drawing not only helps you to see where it will fit outside, but can also be used to place it where you can see if from the inside as well, if you wish.
Bottom line? It’s all about planning. Neglect a site plan drawing and you don’t know what you’re going to get. Get one done by professionals and you give yourself the power to see what your options are and make decisions ahead of time.
]]>If you have a business that requires a physical location, you probably already know that there are many reasons why you need a site plan for a new building.
First off, it’s probably required in order to pass a zoning review and actually get your property built. Second, every business needs to think about issues like parking, driveway access, and distance from fire hydrants in order to meet local codes and make sure people can actually get to your business.
But there are specific things that particular types of industries need to consider as well. Below is a look at several different industries and the unique benefits that they can get from creating a site plan.
If you are building a medical facility that serves patients with emergency needs, there must be a designated area for ambulances, so that they can easily come and go as needed and stop right by the building when dropping off patients – without getting in the way of others. Even if you don’t serve emergency patients, consider patient drop-off is important.
Pizza chains and other restaurants that offer delivery must plan for those services. This means either creating a wholly separate space where delivery drivers can operate or specifying which spaces they can use. If you do not do this in advance, you may face overcrowding and frustrate customers.
All retailers face this issue, but it is particularly true for big-box retailers – you need to have a large, dedicated area where trucks can park to unload the products that you sell. If your building is in a larger shopping complex, this may not be something individual retailers need to concern themselves with, but if you want a standalone building, it absolutely needs to be a consideration.
The needs of a school change depending on the age of the children that it is being designed to educated.
Younger kids will need plenty of outdoor space to play, likely including areas for playgrounds, as well as many design-specific safety measures to prevent accidents and keep them from running off. High-schoolers require fewer safety measures and play areas; instead, more of the outdoor space tends to be used for various sports – football and baseball fields, tennis courts, tracks, and so on.
If these things are not clearly delineated on a site plan in advance, problems may arise later.
Even many lower-to-mid-range hotels these days offer amenities like a pool or a hot tub. And higher-end places and resorts may include things like mini-golf or even a small water park. All of those exterior amenities must be accounted for in the site plan to avoid potential issues.
]]>Traditionally, cottages were one-room houses. But most modern cottages today have a main room, a kitchen, and at least one or two bedrooms. In some cases, you may even see a cottage with a full second story or simply a room in the attic.
In some cases, people have a floor plan first, and then they will decide how it fits on the piece of property they have purchase, which means creating a site plan for their cottage house.
Here are tips for how to create the best cottage house site plan.
Many cottage houses are built in picturesque areas, so if your lot overlooks nature, you should think about what rooms you want to face it on your site plan. The living room is often a good place, since you likely spend a lot of time awake in that room, which will enable you to catch glimpses of wildlife in their habitat as you go about your daily life.
Are you near a beach, a river, a lake, a stream, or another body of water? Then your site plan should take this into account. Often, putting your bedroom near the water is an appealing idea, since you can enjoy the sounds of the water while you drift off to sleep and first thing when you wake up.
The slope of the land can give you the benefit of increased privacy from neighbors or cause problems by impeding your view. It also may necessitate changes or accommodation to the design of your home and add additional expense to the construction process. Talk to your construction team about those concerns, so you can take them into consideration before finalizing your site plan.
If you do have a second floor, whether it’s a renovated attic or a true second story, then that’s an important consider when creating your cottage house site plan. Look at where large trees are situated. Will their branches eventually grow to interfere with that top floor? It could end up being a costly maintenance issue over time.
Just like you think about the flow of your floor plan, you should consider the flow of your site plan. Where are the areas that you will gather outside? Where are pathways that you will likely travel again and again? Where will you want greater privacy or noise reduction? Think about how you will use the overall space and the placement of your home can accommodate that.
The goal of the cottage house design is often to capture a woodsy, storybook charm. The way you situate your house on your site plan can go a long way toward enforcing that.
]]>Have you ever tried to explain property lines or the shape of a property to a client over the phone or even in person? It's kind of like explaining taxes to a toddler...You will never find the right words!
Proving a site plan to potential buyers is a great way to show off a property and can also be a great marketing piece.
We have created hundreds of site plans for both commercial and residential properties and have had great feed back from realtors and brokers.
The plan can be great for visualization of property potential. Many clients will use it as a scratch board for drawing their ideas on. Barn here, tree there, etc.
If you are a realtor or broker and are interested in providing this service to your clients please email us for special bulk pricing deals on our site plans.
]]>There are several good reasons why a homeowner may choose to remodel their home’s roofline. If they want to convert the attic into a livable space, they may need to raise the roof to increase their square footage (and prevent people from hitting their heads on the beams). If a homeowner discovers that their roofline is not steep enough to handle the ice and snow that piles up during the winter, they might need to adjust the roof’s pitch. Although it can be expensive, doing a roofline remodel often costs less than adding a new addition to the home… or paying the steep price for repairs to weather-related damage.
Once you’ve decided to do a roofline remodel for your home, the next thing you need to figure out is what kind of preparations you need to do. You may be wondering if you need a site plan for your home. The answer is almost always yes—it’s a good idea to have a site plan.
The first reason you need a site plan is because your city or county will most likely require you to have one in order to get a building permit.
Not sure if you need a building permit? The projects that require a permit vary from city to city (for example, in some cities you can build a fence that is less than 6 feet tall without a permit, while in other cities you’ll need a permit to build any fence over 3 feet tall), but it’s safe to say that just about anywhere you live, larger-scale construction projects such as a roofline remodels are going to require a permit.
You’ll need to visit your city’s building or development department to learn the specific requirements for a permit, and you’ll most likely need to submit your site plan when you submit a permit application.
The second reason you’ll need a site plan is for your own planning purposes. You can’t afford to make major mistakes when changing the pitch or square footage of your roof, so you’ll need to see a to-scale outline of your roof from an overhead perspective. This is especially helpful if you have different parts to your roof, as it makes it easier to see how the individual sections fit together.
If you’re planning to add new features to your roof, such as gables or dormers, you can lay tracing paper over your site plan and draw the additions on top to see how they will fit in. If you’re planning to change the pitch of your roof, you should also create a side perspective drawing of your exterior walls and roof so that you can determine the current pitch as well as the new pitch you’ll be using in the remodel.
Renovating your roofline can be a big project, but getting a site plan to start the project doesn’t have to be a hassle. If you don’t already have a site plan, or if your home’s site plan is out of date, you can just contact MySitePlan, and we’ll use satellite imagery, county parcel maps, and other information sources to get a plan to you within two working days.
]]>If you wanted to get a plot plan of your property 20 or even 10 years ago, you would most likely either have to cross your fingers that the city development department or title company had one on file, or you would have to hire a licensed surveyor to draw up a new plot plan for you. Now, however, there’s another option: you can order a plot plan online from AutoCAD professionals such as MySitePlan.
Here are a few things you should know if you decide to order your plot plan online.
You won’t need to have someone physically come to your house. Online plot plan providers use a combination of satellite imagery, GIS information, county parcel maps, and other available information sources to create an up-to-date plot plan of your property without ever actually coming to your house. They can simply combine the information sources, use AutoCAD to draw the plan, and send you the final plan as a PDF file.
There is a quick turnaround time when you order a plot plan online. Since MySitePlan is able to email plot plans to our clients as PDF files, we can get your plot plan to you within two business days at most—and oftentimes it only takes one.
You can still make adjustments to a plot plan that you order online. Some people might worry that if they order a plot plan online, they won’t be able to ask that adjustments be made to the final PDF. However, if you find any errors or need specific changes made to the plot plan you receive from MySitePlan, you can request to have those changes made at no extra charge.
The cost of an online site plan is significantly lower than the cost of hiring a surveyor. According to the most recent data from HomeAdvisor.com, the national average cost of hiring a land surveyor is $775, with most homeowners spending somewhere between $644 and $906 for a certified plan. The most detailed plan from MySitePlan, on the other hand, costs $129.99, while a simple plan costs $69.99. Our plans are non-certified so check with your building department first to ensure acceptance.
Online plot plans can be submitted with building permit applications. You’ll want to do your research on site plan providers and make sure you’re working with a company that has years of professional experience, but as long as you choose a reputable site plan provider, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting your application for a building permit approved (MySitePlan has never had an over-the-counter permit denied in the past 15 years of creating plot plans).
If there’s anything else you want to know about ordering a plot plan online versus hiring a surveyor, check out MySitePlan’s FAQ page or contact us today.
]]>If you’re planning to do any landscaping or hardscaping around your home, it’s not just a good idea to know the dimensions and layout of your property—it’s practically essential. Knowing the size and location of existing structures and utility lines, as well as where your property begins and ends, will allow you to see how your new projects will fit in and ensure that you don’t cross any property boundaries. And in order to have this information on hand, you’ll need a landscape plan.
Drawing a landscape plan can be complicated, so if you’re embarking on a larger-scale project, like adding a swimming pool to your backyard, you’ll most likely want to hire a professional. However, if you’re working on a smaller project, like adding new flowerbeds, you may be able to draw your own functional landscape plan. Here’s what you’ll need to do.
Locate your property’s site plan. In order to draw a landscape plan, you’re going to need to know the size and scale of your property. You can find this information on your property’s site plan, which may have come with the deed when you purchased your home. If you can’t locate your site plan, or if you believe your site plan is out of date, you’ll need to order a new one.
If you custom order a site plan, you can actually skip the next two steps and simply create your landscape plan by laying tracing paper over the site plan and sketching in the new features you want to add (drawn to scale).
Decide on a scale. The best way to start a landscape plan is to purchase graph paper and select a scale. For example, you might say the one square on the graph paper represents one square foot of your property.
Measure your property. If you don’t have an up-to-date site plan, you’ll need to measure the length of all your property borders, and then measure your house as well as the distance between the house and the boundaries on all sides. You’ll also need to measure any other elements on your property, such as a patio or a pathway, in relation to the house and boundaries. Use at least two fixed points of reference when measuring all elements in order to get a more accurate plan. Once you’ve recorded all your measurements, you’ll be able to draw all the features to scale on your graph paper.
Add bubble diagrams. Once you have your initial landscape plan, whether it’s the one you drew on graph paper or the site plan you ordered, lay your graph paper over the top and add “bubble diagrams”. This involves drawing circles or ovals in any currently free space on your property and designating it for a certain purpose, such as “gazebo” or “planting bed”. Make sure you leave some space to navigate between these bubbles—you don’t want your yard to be too crowded!
Use your bubble diagrams to determine the space available for your landscaping projects. Keeping the scale of your plan in mind, work out how many square feet you’ll need for each feature that you plan on adding. Again, if you’re planning to add larger features, it’s advisable to work with a professional landscaper.
Save yourself several steps in the landscape planning process by ordering a professional site plan from MySitePlan. We’ll provide you with an up-to-date and detailed plot plan in two working days or less.
]]>You’ve worked hard cultivating your garden, and you and your visitors should be able to comfortably stroll through it rather than battling past overgrown plants. You don’t necessarily have to create an intricate hedge maze or labyrinth, but you should add paths in order to make your garden look neater and give you and your guests better access to the fruits of your labor. Here are a few basic things to keep in mind when you’re planning to add those new garden paths.
Determine the purpose of your path. Maybe you’re interested in adding a path for practical purposes—you have a large garden and you want to cross from Point A to Point B as quickly as possible. On the other hand, you may be more interested in using meandering paths to guide guests all around your garden. The first step in planning any path is figuring out your primary goals.
Choose your materials. There are dozens of different materials you could choose for your new garden path, including concrete pavers, wood chips, gravel, bark, brick, slate, or wood planks. With so many options, how do you decide what’s best for your purposes? Start by researching what materials are readily accessible in your area, and what fits within your budget. Next, think about potential safety risks that certain materials might pose (for example, if you live somewhere that it rains a lot, you might not want to use a material like slate that becomes slick when wet). Finally, consider aesthetics and your personal taste. What material will look best in relation to the plants in your garden?
Determine the width of the path. You may like the idea of being able to create a border path that several people can walk side by side, but you’ll also have to consider how much space you have available on your property. You may need to double-check the exact boundaries by reviewing your home’s site plan, or ordering a new site plan if you don’t have one on record.
Determine if you need a building permit. If you’re just going to lay out a few stepping stones, you probably won’t need to get a building permit, but if you’re planning a larger project, like excavating part of your yard to add a stone walkway, it may be a different story. Check with your city’s building department to see if your project requires a permit, and if it does, be sure you have access to your site plan, since you’ll need it for the application.
Consider ground cover along your path. You don’t want bare dirt around your finished path, so think about what you could plant either along the borders of the path or between the pavers to add some green and improve the path’s visual appeal.
Planning and adding a new path to a garden isn’t something that happens overnight, but it can be well worth the effort you put into it. If your garden is currently lacking walkways, start mapping out some new paths today.
]]>Many homeowners may no longer see the need for their home’s plot plan. Plot plans are often mistakenly thought of as something that is only useful to architects, real estate agencies, or potential buyers or renters.
However, a plot plan is incredibly useful for a homeowner, especially those who like undertaking DIY projects. For some examples why, check out the five reasons below:
Renovations
If you’re planning any sort of a renovation, a plot plan is an absolute must. You can sketch out how the new home will look and present it to contractors to get a more accurate quote. When it comes time to follow through with those decisions, it will be far easier to tell if the contractor’s plans match up to your initial vision.
Event Planning
If you are considering any sort of big outdoor event at your home, be it a wedding, graduation, or birthday party, a plot plan can make your event go smoothly. An event planner will be able to decide on table placement, crowd flow, and even décor much more easily if they have access to your plot plan. If you’re planning the event yourself, you will benefit just as much from seeing your yard laid out.
Landscaping
If you would like to add a garden, koi pond, or just rethink the current plants in your yard, a plot plan can help ensure your end result is beautiful and ideal for your home. It’s far easier to map out how the entire backyard will be laid out on paper than to measure your yard by hand. Using a plot plan will help you get professional looking results.
Adding an Outdoor Building
Whether it’s a playground, a gazebo, or a deck, you’ll need a plot plan to see how the new structure will fit into your backyard, particularly if there are any building restrictions in your area. Not only that, but it’s legally required in order to get a permit for many outdoor projects.
Pool Planning
Want to add or remove a pool? Or maybe you want to redo the landscaping or outdoor structures at your poolside? A plot plan will be required for pool demolition and construction, and it can also aid in any planning you need to do around your pool.
For the creative homeowner, a plot plan is an absolute must. It can help you take DIY to a whole new level of polish and professionalism.
]]>A pathway or patio in your yard or garden can be a great aesthetic boon to your home… but not if it’s surrounded by bare dirt or heavily trampled grass. The best way to make sure your new hardscaping addition looks great is to do some landscaping around it. By adding plants to the edge of your path or patio, you’ll be creating a beautiful, aromatic border that will encourage family members and home visitors alike to spend more time outside.
Of course, not every plant is perfectly suited for edging. You don’t want to choose large plants or trees that are going to encroach on the limited space you have and make you feel like you’re venturing through a rain forest. You also shouldn’t choose plants that are toxic, overly pungent, or have spiky edges (especially if you have pets or children).
So what should you plant, then? Your decision will in part be governed by your personal preferences and the region you live in, but here are a few popular choices to get you started. If you like the sound of any of the plants below, be sure to ask your landscaper if the plants would work well for you.
Creeping thyme. Homeowners often choose to plant this herb along flagstone paths because it’s okay if the plant gets a little trampled—in fact, it releases a pleasant scent when this happens. It’s also a great choice around the edge of a backyard patio because you can simply walk outside and pick the herb when you need to season your cooking. Creeping rosemary is another popular choice in the same vein.
Miniature brass buttons are a carpeting perennial that grows small green leaves in tight clumps, making it a good choice for edging. It’s also known for being virtually indestructible, withstanding heavy foot traffic and shady areas. One thing you should note is that it will likely go dormant during hot, dry months, but will green up again when watered.
Creeping jenny. This plant creates a lush green ground covering and is incredibly easy to grow. It also requires very little maintenance beyond occasional pruning to keep it from encroaching on your path or patio. If you’re interested in planting creeping jenny (also known as creeping moneywort) you should first check with your local extension office, as it is restricted in some areas.
Sedum. If you want to brighten up your hardscape, sedum is a great little plant. There are many different varieties, and their small flowers come in orange, pink, red, or white. As an added bonus, they attract butterflies while they’re blooming, bringing even more natural beauty to your home. They do best in well-drained, well-lit areas and can’t handle much heavy foot traffic, so you’ll need to plant them strategically.
Geraniums. This popular plant is quite hardy, blooming for months and producing saucer-shaped flowers in blue, pink, and white. It can handle both sunny and shady areas and grows in many different types of soils. If you want a particularly bold, vibrant look, choose bloody geraniums, which produce a red flower.
Keep in mind that this is just a small sampling of the many great plants available to you. Remember to talk to your landscaper and sketch your ideas on your site plan so that you can figure out what will work best with your existing space.
]]>“Let’s just start building and see how it goes.” That should never be your attitude towards renovation projects in your house or for building projects on your property, because there’s a lot that can go wrong (and even steep fines you may face) without proper planning. In many cases, you’ll want – or even legally need – a site plan before you begin any major building projects around your home.
Here are a few reasons why you might need a site plan.
To get a building permit. Thinking of adding a sun room to your home or adding that backyard pool you’ve always dreamed of? Just about any large scale building project in a residential area is going to require you to get a building permit from your city or county, and you’ll need to have a professional site plan in order to get approved for that permit.
Oh, and don’t try to cut corners my skipping the building permit. If the city finds out that you’ve been building without a permit, you’ll likely face fines that are much more expensive than it would have been to just get the permit in the first place.
To make sure you’re in keeping with zoning regulations. When you present your site plan to the City Building Department for review, they’ll check to make sure that your construction plans are in keeping with local zoning regulations and are up to the city’s safety codes. That way, you’ll be able to build without worrying about violations.
To make sure you know where your utility lines are. Your new pool isn’t going to be much fun if you end up hitting a utility line when you start digging in your backyard. A site plan can help you figure out where and how deep any utility lines are so that you don’t do any damage during construction.
To make sure you have space to build around existing structures. You certainly don’t want to underestimate the amount of space you have in your yard when, say, adding a greenhouse or gazebo. By getting a site plan that’s drawn to scale, you can figure out exactly how much room you have to work with—and how to make the most of your space.
To prevent boundary disputes. Maybe you and your neighbor have been peacefully coexisting for years, but then your neighbor suddenly starts to landscape a swath of land that you swear is on your property. Or maybe you decide to add a fence around your property, but your neighbor says you’re encroaching on their land. Whatever the case, a site plan can help show where your property lines truly are based on county parcel maps and other available resources, making it much easier for you and your neighbor to resolve the issue.
If you’ve realized that your home project requires a site plan, you can order one or even request custom work from MySitePlan. We use a combination of county parcel maps, satellite data, GIS information, and other resources to get you an accurate, up-to-date site plan in two business days or less. When you choose us, you’ll be able to get your project off the ground without worrying about encountering unpleasant surprises along the way.
]]>Once you’ve added an in-ground pool to your backyard, it’s time to enjoy the water… and think about how you’re going to landscape around your pool, of course. While visual appeal is going to be an important factor when choosing plants to surround your pool, there are several other things you need to think about.
You don’t want to end up with plants that are going to shed leaves, petals, or spikes directly into the pool, forcing you to clean the pool more frequently than you should have to. You also don’t want to choose plants like oak or elm trees, because their invasive roots can damage your new pool, its surrounding area, and its plumbing system. And please—no spiky plants like cacti anywhere near a space where people are going to be in swimsuits and walking around barefoot!
The plants that you use for your landscape will depend in part upon the climate and the space available to you, so be sure to do your research before choosing anything that just won’t thrive in your area (or that will attract unwanted visitors, like bees). Here are 10 plant ideas to get you started.
Before undertaking any major landscaping around your pool, remember to get a site plan so that you have a good sense of where all your new plants will go.
]]>A driveway is a pretty simple concept: it’s a path that leads from the street to your house or garage, giving cars a space to pull in without ruining your front lawn. With such a simple purpose, it should be easy to add a driveway to a new or renovated home, right?
While it may not be the most complex construction project, adding a driveway still takes some consideration, and you should map it out on your site plan before you start building. Here are six things to think about when adding a new driveway.
Budget. There are several different materials you can use for your driveway, but your final decision is probably going to depend at least in part on your budget. Gravel is the cheapest material up-front, typically running about $1-3 per square foot. Asphalt is about $2-4, concrete is about $4-6, and specialized concrete pavers can be even more expensive.
Maintenance. Notice that we only mentioned the “up-front” cost above. That’s because different materials are going to require different types of maintenance, which could cost you time and money in the long run. For instance, pavers are going to require less regular maintenance than gravel, so you may find that the up-front cost is actually worth it for you.
Size of vehicles. If you just need to drive one average-sized car into the garage, your driveway only needs to be about 10 feet wide. If you have a wider car or need to park multiple cars in the driveway—maybe you have guests over frequently or have more cars than your garage has room for—you’ll need to plan accordingly.
The road in front of your house. For those who live on a quiet street, it shouldn’t be too hard to just back out of a driveway. However, if your house is in front of a busier street or a narrower lane, backing out could be more of a challenge, and you may want to create a T-shaped or arc-shaped driveway so that you can easily turn around in front of your house before entering the road.
Style of your house. If you’re not constrained by your budget, you may want to choose a driveway material that matches your house’s architecture in order to improve your home’s curb appeal. For example, two colors of concrete pavers arranged in an interesting design might complement a modern home nicely, while gravel might work well for a house with more of a rustic look.
Climate. Don’t forget to think about the weather where you live. Concrete may crack during freeze-thaw cycles, while asphalt will hold up better to temperature fluctuations. Gravel is prone to erosion, which can be problematic if you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain, snow, or hail. Be sure to read up on the pros and cons of each type of material before deciding what to use for your driveway.
]]>If you’re applying for a building permit, organizing an event in a rented space, or working through a boundary dispute, you may be asked to produce a plot plan. While this can cause some confusion, a plot plan is really just the same thing as a site plan—it’s a two-dimensional, overhead view of a property with details like property lines, structures, and landscapes.
If you don’t already have a plot plan in the closing documents for your property, the main two ways of securing one are having someone come out to draw one or getting one through an online resource like MySitePlan. Here’s what you need to know about both those options.
If you want to have someone come out to your property to draw up a plot plan, you should work with either an experienced architect or a licensed surveyor. You can find surveyors locally by searching for the phrase “land surveyors” online or by looking in the yellow pages.
When you contact a surveyor, be sure to ask what will be included in the plot plan and get a fee estimate. The fee will be based on the size and location of your property as well as the rate charged by the individual surveyor. Rates can be upwards of $1,000, so make sure you are comfortable paying for the plot plan before you commit to hiring.
Once you’ve hired a surveyor, they will often come with a field crew to inspect your property. They will also use resources such as county maps and property deeds to determine the boundaries of your property. Based on their observations and research, they’ll produce an up-to-date plot plan.
For many, ordering a plot plan online is the better option because it is typically less expensive and takes less time than hiring a surveyor to come out. You should, of course, compare the cost of online plot plans with the cost of hiring a surveyor. But for many projects, a simple plot plan can cost just $79 rate, and you can have it delivered in two days or less from MySitePlan.
All you need to do to order a plot plan online is to decide how much detail you need, place the plot plan with that level of detail in your cart, and purchase. If you order with MySitePlan, we’ll use a combination of satellite imagery, GIS information, county parcel maps, and other information that you provide to get you a PDF of an up-to-date, accurate plot plan in two days or less.
However, this method isn’t suitable if the permit for your project specifically asks for a land survey, so check the requirements. If you’re uncertain, feel free to reach out to us, and we can help guide you to a solution that will fulfill the requirements set out by your location.
]]>If you’re looking for a way to add value to your home while also giving your family and friends an outdoor space to gather, building a deck may be your best bet. With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to start building—after you’ve come up with a plan, of course.
All major home renovation projects require some planning, and building a deck is no exception. Here are the 4 basic things you need to do before diving into some backyard construction.
Once you’ve worked out the details, you (or your contractors) will be able to get to work on your deck, and before you know it, you’ll have the perfect place to sit in the sun on pleasant days.
]]>The weather’s heating up, and you have grand ambitions to add an in-ground swimming pool to your property this summer. Of course, you already know this is going to require more work than just digging a pit and filling it with water, but you might not know exactly how to get started with this particular renovation project.
As with any major home building project, you’re going to need a building or construction permit from your city before you can add a swimming pool. And to get a building permit, you’ll have to present a site plan of your property.
Your swimming pool site plan will need to include:
Instead of trying to draw up a swimming pool structure plan yourself, the easiest thing you can do is order a copy of your property’s site plan and add the swimming pool to scale. Or, if you already have a swimming pool and are just planning to make changes, you can order a site plan and mark the intended changes on the swimming pool.
You may be able to get a copy of your home’s site plan from your county government or find a copy in your closing documents, but if you can’t find one there or the site plan is no longer up to date, the easiest and quickest thing you can do is order one from MySitePlan. We’ll use satellite imagery to create your site plan and get it to you within two working days, so you can get your project underway and enjoy spending time in your very own swimming pool.
]]>