Better Check Zoning Laws Before Converting Garage
Before your readers try to emulate the Nollers (“Elbow Vroom” by Kathy Price-Robinson, March 19) and convert their garages into family rooms, they had better check with their local zoning officials.
In many jurisdictions, a single-family house is required to have an enclosed garage. Even with a conversion that meets the building codes, the homeowner can be forced to undo the conversion.
Where I live, a house with four or fewer bedrooms must have at least a two-car garage. A house with five or more bedrooms must have at least a three-car garage.
The garage may be finished inside for use as a family room. However, such features as the overhead door must remain in place to facilitate returning the space to its use for parking cars.
DAVID E. ROSS
Oak Park
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