Linda,

Try calling the local Zoning Office at the town hall. Give them the address of the property and ask them what are the setbacks that are required (that is the distance from the structure to the property line)as well as any restricitons for the neighborhood. Once you have the setbacks you will be able to take rough measurements that will give you a good idea if you have the space and you will also know if you have any other restrictions. Then and only then will you have to hired a surveyor (and yes you will) to draw out the propsed addition on the site plan.

Hope this helps/

Hi Linda, If the city you called is anything like the towns and cities in my area, their offices are typically not very helpful. That being said, why would you let some clerk that is having a bad day ruin your opportunity to own a home that you really love? If I were the realtor who has that home listed, I would be happy to get a survey map to you. My suggestion would be get ahold of that realtor and ask them to get it from their homeowners. Take it to the city and get your answer. If you really love this home, it could very well be worth the extra effort. Good luck to you, Cynthia