All Forum Posts by: Raymond L Tennal Jr

You need to check the local zoning ordinance. I can't speak for Florida, but I would expect not. ADU are typically only permitted with Single Family Residence Lots. I would start with looking at the local zoning code

Most jurisdiction define what work requires a permit, but often this is limited to $2,000.  Let face it, just getting a contractor on site cost $2,000.  When ever you are changing the lateral system you are required to get a permit. Adding windows and door can effect the building's lateral system, therefore requiring a permit.  Given you descriptions I would go for a permit.  It will help you claim the extra space on the resale. 

@Ethan Daniel Dacar, 

Just joined, but this is an area I'm well versed in.  I'm a structural engineer with 8 years experience and 12 years or architectural development working in Northwest Washington, primarily on Whidbey Island, WA. 

The first place to start is get a building design on board.  You could go with an architect, but they are likely to charge you between $120 to $150 and hour for design services.  The building design should run between $75 to $120.  

Next thing to determine if the wall you want to remove is a bearing walls.  The first thing I ask is "when was this home built"  Home built prior to say 1975 used stick built roof and often had interior bearing walls as these roof system have shorter span than trusses.  Younger home are often built with trusses and typical span from exterior wall to exterior wall, but not always the case.  Span for trusses can be as much as 30 ft, but most don't span more than 24ft.  Now if there is a floor above, interior walls could be bearing walls.  Floor joist and support spans between 12 to 18 feet.  You can span greater, but it is high unlikely.  So the question here is, what is the frame above the wall... if it runs parallel the wall is likely non-bearing, if perpendicular it is likely that it is bearing.  However, it also depends on what is going on above if it is a two story.  Another way to determine if it is a bearing wall is to see if there is a beam line in the crawlspace.  Slab on grade construction is not as easy to identify.   

Hopefully that helps you get started.