The Nevada County Building Department is seeking public input by Nov. 5 on a proposal that would reduce building regulations for rural owner-built homes.
The goal is to promote greater flexibility and affordability in housing development and provide a pathway to bring illegal structures into compliance. The County had a similar ordinance in place until 2017.
“The intention behind this proposal is to remove some of the barriers that make homeownership difficult for those with the skills and desire to build their own homes,” said Supervising Plans Examiner Nick McBurney. “We want to empower residents to use their own resources and craftsmanship, provided that safety remains a top priority.”
Some examples of what qualified homeowners are exempt from under the proposed “Title 25 Limited-Density-Owner-Built Rural Dwellings” ordinance are:
- Installing a roof-mount solar system
- Obtaining engineered construction documents (where snow load is less than 70 pounds per square foot)
- Installing sprinklers when under 1,600-square-feet
Such homeowners would still need to permit a well and septic system. They would also be required to comply with fire safety standards such as including adequate road access and fire-resistant siding and windows. They would also be required to live in the home or have family live in the home for at least two years.
The proposed ordinance can be reviewed at www.nevadacountyca.gov/Title25.
McBurney is accepting written comments on the proposal until 5 p.m. Nov. 5 at Nicholas.McBurney@NevadaCountyCa.gov or by mail at 950 Maidu Ave., Suite 170, Nevada City, 95959.