A property owner wants to convert a single-family home into a duplex in an area zoned R-1 (single-family residential). What approval is needed?
Correct Answer
B) Zoning variance or rezoning to R-2
Converting to a duplex changes the use from single-family to multi-family, which requires appropriate zoning (R-2 or similar) through variance or rezoning before building permits can be issued.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Converting a single-family home to a duplex fundamentally changes the property use from single-family residential to multi-family residential. R-1 zoning specifically permits only single-family homes, so the property must be rezoned to R-2 (or similar multi-family zoning) or obtain a variance before any construction can begin. This zoning approval must be obtained first, as building permits cannot be issued for uses that don't comply with current zoning regulations.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Building permit only
A building permit alone is insufficient because you cannot obtain a building permit for a use that violates current zoning. The zoning must be changed first before any building permits can be issued for the duplex conversion.
Option C: Certificate of Occupancy modification
A Certificate of Occupancy modification comes at the end of the construction process and cannot override zoning restrictions. The fundamental zoning issue must be resolved first before any construction or occupancy changes can occur.
Option D: Fire department approval only
Fire department approval may be required as part of the overall approval process, but it cannot override zoning restrictions. The property must first be properly zoned for multi-family use before fire safety and other approvals become relevant.
Memory Technique
Think 'Zone Before You Build' - zoning approval must always come before building permits when changing property use types.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code Chapter 1 - Scope and Administration, and local zoning ordinances section regarding residential classifications and use changes
More Contract Admin Questions
A project experiences a 30-day delay due to unusually severe weather. The contract includes a liquidated damages clause of $1,000 per day for delays. If the weather delay is excusable but not compensable, what liquidated damages apply?
A commercial project requires a total of 12 inspections. The building department charges $85 per inspection for the first 5 inspections, $65 for inspections 6-10, and $45 for any additional inspections. What is the total inspection fee?
What document must be posted at the job site before a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued for a commercial building?
A mixed-use development requires a variance for reduced setbacks. The property is located within 500 feet of a hospital. What additional consideration must be addressed?
A LEED project requires tracking of regional materials. Materials are considered regional if they are extracted, harvested, or recovered, as well as manufactured within what distance of the project site?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Project Management
60 questions · 70% to pass
Previous Question
In a cost-plus-fee contract with a 12% fee, if the actual project costs are $420,000 and there was a $15,000 cost overrun due to owner changes, what is the total amount due to the contractor?
Next Question
Which cost estimating method is most appropriate for preliminary budgeting of a standard office building?