My workshop, which makes it sound more organized than it is, has grown over the years to overfill my two car garage leaving both cars out in the weather. The noise and dust generated must be unbearable in the house when I am working on some project. Our furnace is in the garage and it must sound like dust storm howling through the house.

Please note that this is part of the unselfish justification for a separate shop. Most of the remaining justification is covered by “ I just want one”, however, It produced a strong ally in my wife Joan. She is convinced that her benefits will be greater than mine. 

My old shop



The size of shop I need for the equipment that I have requires the building to be a permanent structure rather than a smaller shop that could be placed anywhere in the yard and moved if necessary.

This is a good place to do some initial investigation in the City of Tulsa Zoning Code which can be done by visiting with INCOG. INCOG is the regional planning organization which controls zoning requirements, arranges for Board of Adjustment appeals and many other land use aspects. Your residence may be zoned RS1, RS2, or RS3 each of which have different building setback lines from the front, back and side yards, lot coverage areas allowed and height restrictions.

A shop or storage shed is called an accessory building and is allowed in each category but with restrictions. An accessory building can cross over or be in the building setback line but has restrictions on size and height.

It may be necessary to apply for a hearing to get permission from the Board of Adjustment but this can cost around $450. I would prefer that my shop be further from the house but the hearing cost can pay for a dust collector.

One other zoning note; The Code allows artists and craftsmen to operate a business from a residential location with the restriction that you can’t sell or serve customers out of the shop.

Location of new shop



You should also determine if your property has any covenants or restrictions that restrict or deny a shop on the property or may require a design review by a neighborhood committee. Doesn’t that sound like fun?

A permanent shop requires a building permit. I have found from 38 years of practice that the best way to get along with the permit office and building inspectors is to be honest and up front with them. The permit office is happy to review your plans with you on an informal basis where you can learn of any special problems or requirements that you need to resolve before applying for a building permit. Call for an appointment first.

Chapter 2