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City's 'hoop houses' must go by June 1
Staff Writer For Brainerd residents who have put up a temporary structure, commonly called a "hoop house", on their property, more than likely it will have to be removed by June 1.
In order for city residents to have such structures, they have to apply for a building permit and the temporary structures have to meet the state building code, which the city of Brainerd has adopted.
So far, city officials have not come across a temporary structure that would meet the code, said Brainerd Building Official Tim Caughey.
"They're starting to become a popular, inexpensive structure," Caughey said. "If someone wants one, they need to apply for a permit. But more than likely they will be turned down."
Temporary "hoop house," gambrel or typical pitched roofed buildings constructed of metal or plastic and supported by metal or plastic tube frames have been appearing around the city of Brainerd, Caughey said. Such structures have been appearing without a building permit or verification of compliance with zoning requirements.
In a news release, Brainerd officials said most temporary buildings can be purchased at home improvement centers or are sometimes built of material that a property owner might store on a property. Temporary buildings are sometimes constructed with side and end walls or have tarp walls for protection. These buildings are constructed to shelter vehicles and recreational equipment and to store personal items.
The city has adopted the state building code that does not recognize these buildings as temporary. It specifies that that all buildings are required to comply with minimum standards for construction. Also, the state building code specifies that a building that exceeds 120 square feet in area be required to obtain a building permit.
At its Feb. 5 meeting, the Brainerd City Council was presented with information about the temporary building issue and determined that for safety and aesthetic reasons the situation should be addressed. The council determined that staffers should inform property owners with a temporary building over 120 square feet that they have until June 1 to be in compliance with the building code and zoning ordinance requirements or remove the building from the property.
In order to determine if a building permit can be issued, documentation showing that the building meets all applicable aspects of the building code will be required. If a building permit can be issued, to determine if zoning requirements are met, a plan showing the building location and a building photograph will be needed.
Any property owner that has a question about the required documentation for allowable temporary buildings, the procedure for obtaining a building permit or about zoning requirements, should contact the city at 501 Laurel St. or call 828-2309.
MATT ERICKSON can be reached at matt.erickson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5857.
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