[TowerTalk] Re: Town Code Definition Conundrum

[Phil - KB9CRY]

"Got home and started digging in. Well, I think that this was written 
for only commercial users. "

The following is only my opinion and can be taken for whatever you 
wish.  Also, the following, in my opinion, should be followed unless you 
literally live in the middle of nowhere, meaning no other residence for 
many miles.  Even if you live in an unincorporated county but have 
residences within somewhat close proximity (1000 ft or less maybe) my 
guidance should be followed.

Even if there is no specific ordinance against amateur radio 
installations and antenna support structures (they're not towers, 
they're support structures, even if you load it up and use it as an 
antenna, it's still a support structure) they do have one thing in common.
They all have structural concrete, meaning specifically mixed 
"structural" concrete with steel reinforcing bars inside.  All building 
inspection departments need to inspect that, if nothing else.  That's 
what inspectors do, they inspect concrete.  Here in Will County, I 
learned that there also is no amateur regulation but I convinced them 
that I had concrete that they needed to inspect and they eventually gave 
in and gave me a permit.  I needed a permit because I wanted to be 
totally legal when I get incorporated into the encroaching village who 
has very restrictive ordinances.

So in conclusion, if you have structural concrete, then you should get a 
permit because that's what inspectors need to do, inspect concrete.  
Doing so also usually goes a long way in establishing a good rapport 
with the building dept. and that alone can be worth it's weight in gold 
at a later date.  Phil  KB9CRY