No building codes in WY? (insurance, house, buying)

[MIKEYB426]

Just trying to find out which if any county's and city's with no building codes? Its my understanding the the state of Wyoming does not have building codes. Any help is greatly appreciated.

[sunsprit]

Building codes are in effect in the bigger towns, and most counties now require that construction be code compliant with the International Building Code.

Generally speaking, however, if a residential site is in an incoporated area, or is in a zoned area, it will require code compliance for residential construction. The more populated counties do have staff to do inspections and keep tabs on any construction activity that may/may not be code compliant to enforce the permits/fees and code compliance. Some will require application to a county engineer for a building permit/fees.

Make no assumptions about code requirements across the state. Be sure to inquire at the local county offices or municipal offices before building anything so you know for sure what/where may be exempt. The Planning and Zoning Department folks are the ones who will know.

[susansolin]

We are about to start building (in Park County) and I have heard the same thing. I'll let you know what I find out. Someone told me our building permit is only $25! Also, it's a buyer beware state. I was told to that building inspectors aren't licensed so you have to be very careful about who you choose.

[sunsprit]

Originally Posted by susansolin

We are about to start building (in Park County) and I have heard the same thing. I'll let you know what I find out. Someone told me our building permit is only $25! Also, it's a buyer beware state. I was told to that building inspectors aren't licensed so you have to be very careful about who you choose.

If you aren't in a zoned municipal area or a subdivision, but in an unicorporated rural property area ... Park County does not have a building code. They only require a building permit and a septic permit (if you are installing a septic system).

[ElkHunter]

You might also check with your insurance company that you plan to use for insuring the property. They could have some restrictions.

I would at least build to UBC (Uniform Building Code) for a couple of reasons. Some day you may want to sell your place. I, for one, wouldn't buy or even entertain the idea of buying if it didn't, at least, meat UBC. UBC is the bare minimum for the elements, wind, snow load, frost, electrical and fire safety, etc. Regardless of being in a county that doesn't enforce, or inspect, it may in the future. Just my two cents worth.

[CptnRn]

For those areas subject to International Building Code, I would caution that it is much more comprehensive then the UBC.

[susansolin]

Not having building codes is making me nervous. I'm hopeful that as long as we hire a good builder our house will be well built....

[Happy in Wyoming]

Originally Posted by susansolin

Not having building codes is making me nervous. I'm hopeful that as long as we hire a good builder our house will be well built....

Your architect should certainly be able to recommend a builder. Keep in mind that people in areas with the most draconian building codes frequently have problems.

[CptnRn]

Originally Posted by susansolin

Not having building codes is making me nervous. I'm hopeful that as long as we hire a good builder our house will be well built....

Tell the architect to design and specify that the house shall be built to meet the requirements of the 2006 International Building Code. Make sure the builder is aware of this when he submits a bid and that it is stated in the contract. Then hire an independent inspector to inspect the construction at appropriate times during the progress to verify that it is being done.

[susansolin]

Thanks for the suggestions CptnRn!