What are the rules for hobby or recreation rooms in my backyard?
Hobby, recreation, storage and other such rooms that are not attached to the main dwelling are limited to 300 square feet unless an accessory structure permit is approved. These accessory structures may have a toilet and sink only, unless there is an in-ground swimming pool on the property in which case they can also have a shower. If any plumbing is installed, the homeowner must sign a covenant that will be recorded on the property to prevent the accessory structure from being used as an illegal dwelling unit. Garages may not be converted to hobby or recreation rooms unless replacement covered parking is provided elsewhere on the property. However, you may use your garage from hobby or recreation purposes as long as the garage door remains operable and the garage is not structurally altered in a way that would prevent it from functioning as a garage.
