When you buy a property you’ll be purchasing the land round the property up to a specific boundary line. This should be detailed in your deeds and during the purchase procedure.
However, this doesn’t mean you have the right to do anything you want on the land. If you’re looking to build a structure, erect a tall fence or complete some other project you may need to obtain planning position.
The exact distance you can build from your property line will depend on your deeds and the regulations in force in your area. However; this is the general guidelines that you can follow:
Survey It
It doesn’t matter if you have owned the land for years and think you know all the details. Before you start building anything,you need to have a topographic survey company survey your entire plot. They will be able to identify natural features and man-made ones. They will confirm your boundary lines; which is essential if you’re planning to build as close to them as possible.
They can also determine elevations and any underground utilities. It can be helpful to know where these are if your digging foundations. Shop around with companies like Scalice, who offer topographic surveys in the New York area. They might just end up being your pick for the survey.
Know The Measurements
The general guidelines will specify certain places and the distances you can build. These will be in the region of:
- No closer than 1.5m to the boundary line if you’re building a wall up to 4.5m high. IF the wall is over 7.5m high you’ll need to be at least 2m from the boundary. It should be noted that this is different to the actual boundary wall.
- If the wall is less than 3.5 meters you can build closer to your boundary providing the wall is no taller than 3.5 meters ad less than 15 meters long. It must also not have any windows or openings within 0.9 meters of the side boundary if there is an adjoining property.
- Even the boundary wall must be limited to no more than 15m long and 3m high. Of course if the existing wall is being replaced or attached to then the height of the existing wall applies to the new one.
It is also worth noting that if you have an adjoining property you’ll need to give at least 6m between your build and the boundary line.
Building Within These Limits
In most cases these limits are acceptable and east to live with. However, it is possible to build closer to the boundary line or even right on it. But, to do so you’ll need to apply for planning permission. This can be a slow process and it is a good idea to get expert help. A professional can ensure your case is presently accurately and effectively; helping to ensure you get the right response.
As already mentioned the regulations can vary slightly from state to state; it is essential that you check before you start building. It’s also a good idea to talk to your neighbors before you build; this will help to facilitate the process.
