New York Building Codes

Hey Permies:
First time poster, and I've never actually used a message board before either. Be gracious with me.

My question is: For the state of New York, does anyone know the what kinds of natural building have permits and codes intact? My husband and I want to build a cottage that we might rent out to people during the summer months. The floorplan that we are hoping to achieve is about 450 square feet, single story. We love the idea of Cob or Strawbale, but with building codes we aren't sure what we'll be able to achieve (specifically because we hope to rent it out while it's not in our use). We are also not sure if that type of home will be able to withstand -10 degrees and TONS of wind and snow.

Any insight?

- Fen

Hi Fen,

This can be especially complicated, depending on where in New York. Some areas have more open zoning, while others borderline on a police state. Also how you approach the design and build, can have a huge impact on a successful outcome or not. A structural cobb or straw bail, can be received differently, as a full "out of norm" construction, compared to say something like a timber frame with cobb or straw infill, which, with the right "language," can be treated as more main stream. Unfortunately it can be a real shell game. Also, who does the build, if you act as your own GC, if you have a designer/architect and a PE for backing, all affect the outcome. I believe your plan is achievable but good planning and patience is the key.

Regards,

jay