Building a Home in Sparta NJ (house, construction, codes)

[Phrige]

I was wondering if anyone was familiar with building codes, in general in New Jersey, Sparta specifically. I haven't gone to the building department yet, I'm still arranging how I want to present this.

I would like to build a home, small (1,000 sq/ft possibly 1500 max). Either completely stone, or completely wood foundation and structure. I don't want plumbing, running water, very minimal electricity which will be self generated (solar). I've been looking through the sparta building dept website looking for building codes trying to see how legal this is. Anyone have any information or experience in this kind of thing. I'm looking for some direction on how to get legal permits and such to build this with no worries.


Thanks,
Peter

[BobKovacs]

The house is going to be built according to the NJ code, which is a modified version of the International Residential Code. It's going to be required to have running water (both hot and cold). Building it from stone wouldn't be a problem, provided that you can show the construction meets the minimum insulation requirements and you'll need an engineer to sign off on the stone stating that it meets the structural load requirements (the code doesn't have prescriptive requirements for stone, so you've got to prove that it's structurally sound). The wood foundation system and structure would also be possible, as the code has provisions for wood foundations.

You'll also need a heating system which is capable of maintaining proper temperatures in the winter, which is going to either require one heck of a large fireplace or stove, or will require a central heating plant. There are a host of other requirements that I haven't listed here, but so far your plan isn't viable if you want to use the place as a residence- you won't receive a certificate of occupancy.

[Phrige]

Ok, thanks for the tips. Heating was just going to be a wood stove. I appreciate that reply. I'm going to do more research into the minimum requirements. That running water clause is kind of a bummer. Basically I'm looking to use it more as a cottage, not necessarily an all year residence. Its out more into the woods so it'd make for a nice summer and winter retreat.

Thanks,
Peter

[ottomobeale]

tagging. keep us updated long term. I am curious.

[HalfFull]

For help in building this kind of structure, call Ted at 1-800-Unabomber.

[Calico696]

Originally Posted by HalfFull

For help in building this kind of structure, call Ted at 1-800-Unabomber.

LMAO

[wileynj]

Originally Posted by HalfFull

For help in building this kind of structure, call Ted at 1-800-Unabomber.

LOL..sounds a bit suspect huh?