Architech wanted for owner/builder permit

[TVfarm]

Aloha all,

We are seeking an architect who can help us draw our plan in order to apply for an owner/builder permit.
We are looking to convert a container so all renderings are done already.
The sooner we can submit for the permit the better it would be!!
If you have any contacts please do not hesitate in contacting us on: tvmetalbox@gmail.com

Mahalo
Tracey [}] & Vincent[:o)]

Don't Worry Be Happy

[kalakoa]

We are looking to convert a container

The two big issues have been discussed in these very forums, search for details.

1. Converting a container "may" be more effort than it's worth.

2. County can't deal with anything other than wood framing, you will need a State-licensed engineer, and that engineer will be on Oahu, so you'll spend a small fortune FedEx-ing your plans back and forth, plus a big part of your life arguing with County about your structure.

Cargotecture is best unpermitted, either as part of a larger no-code project, or as an "accessory use" to a permitted project -- unless you want to try using the 2646 exemptions, which will probably cause County to point at the FEMA flood zone maps as the "reason" you can't do that.

Not trying to be a "downer" here, but it's all too easy for the "dream" to become a byzantine struggle with the authorities -- after which it's obvious why some people just don't bother with permits in the first place.

[MarkP]

I live in a container. It's been fun and has some cool things going for it. However I will one day complete a much more conventional house here. I haven't and I don't recommend that anyone else do anything too elaborate with containers. One container, a few windows, a roof to shed the water, and you're good for the short haul.

[Cagary]

Don't do it. Do not get the County involved in your container project.

Most people want to follow "the rules" and think that if they do, the County will finally approve their project. There is nothing further from the truth in Hawaii County. They will drag out the permitting for years finding every reason in the book (and many not in the book) to stall approval of your project. There is no time limit on when the County has to give you approval or disapproval on the different phases of your project. You can wait for months to hear from them. And they know that there isn't a darn thing you can do about it.

It would be bad enough if some one reported you to the County and they started coming down on you and your unpermitted project, but for you to invite the County into the project is something you will come to regret. You will not be alone. You will be joining 100s of other families living peacefully and safely in unpermitted homes.

For your own safety, build your container home following all the "rules" of quality construction, but do not get the County involved.

-Veritas odium parit”(Terence 195–159 BC))-"Truth begets hatred".

[Seeb]

If you have to buy, then pay to move a container- your better off just framing something.
Container houses only made sense when you could get the things for close to free. For a permitted house the shell is the cheapest part

[TVfarm]

Thank you so much for your quick reply.

The thing is we need a building permit to be allowed to connect on the potable water catchment.
Is there another possibility?

Mahalo
Tracey & Vincent

Don't Worry Be Happy

[kalakoa]

The thing is we need a building permit to be allowed to connect on the potable water catchment.

If you really must have a permitted building for purposes of a "County water connection" or "to get grid power from HELCO", work out the minimum "building" that meets the requirements, make it as simple as possible, and follow the "standard permit-license-fee-inspection" process. The smallest kit home from HPM might be a good bet. Put it right up front by the road.

Later, when the County has finaled your house, build some "accessory structures" further back on the lot.