Additions and Renovations

If you are considering renovating, expanding/adding to or remodeling your house, you already know that there are a number of considerations. From the City perspective, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • For an addition, you will be limited by your setbacks - the minimum required distance that the dwelling must be from all property lines
  • If you are remodeling or renovating, the type of permits you need will depend on the work that you perform.  More information about when permits are required can be found here.
  • If you own the home but don't live there (are a landlord) then you must hire a licensed contractor to perform the work. If you own the home and intend to live there or currently reside there, you can apply for the permits yourself.
  • If you are considering hiring a contractor to perform the work for you, you can use this link to verify a builder's license.

The City has also put together a residential building permit checklist which lists all of the requirements that need to be met in order to build a home in the City of Frankenmuth. A hard copy of this document can be found at Frankenmuth City Hall or click HERE for the online version.

Setbacks vary by residential zoning district.  We recommend that you sketch your ideal situation (where you would like to see you addition constructed) and either stop in to speak with us or email it to us so we can review it for zoning compliance before you seek a building permit.  We will be able to let you know the limitations of construction.  You must use this link (review the property report for your parcel) to locate your parcel and review your zoning, or contact us at 652-9901.  Setbacks by zoning district are below:

Zoning District  Front  Side min  Side Total  Rear
 RE- One Family   30  12  25  50
 RA-1 One Family  25  10  20  35
 RA-2 One Family  25  8  18  35
 RA-3 One Family  25  8  18  35
         

*Side yards abutting a street (corner lots) must be a minimum of 25 feet.