HI, again DT -

I'm sure we are all glad that our responses helped in some way. Building/renovating - changing any existing structure can be a double edged sword, if you will. To use another cliche - like a glass half full or half empty - depending on your attitude. I'm on the half full side - You are going to take a structure that so far hasn't been used to its fullest potential and modify it so it will give you much more pleasure and benefit than when you bought that house. Highest and best use! As you make the changes, please keep in mind that you may not own this home forever - and when it comes time to sell it to someone else - will your changes work for a new buyer. I'm not suggesting that you make the changes so bland that anyone would like them - just remember that extreme changes may come to haunt you in the future. You are about to set upon a new course that is SO EXCITING - have fun with the renovations - and please let me know how it all turned out. My husband and I were the general contractors for a home we built into a hillside in Connecticut and other than children and pets, there is nothing so much fun! Let me know whenever you have questions I can help with. Good luck!!!

Thank you all for your answers - they were each helpful and I wouldn't know which one to choose as "best" answer. I'm new to this and appreciate all the info the Trulia user community has shared so far. Maybe one day in the future I'll be able to give back in kind.

Thanks!

Hi DT - Your local zoning officials would be the people to whom I suggest you talk. Ask for an appointment to meet with them and explain what it is you wish to do. They should know all the ins and outs and have the most recent information that may not have made it to their website. Take with you a pad of paper on which you can eventually write what they tell you is permitted - then TRY to get them to sign it. I would strongly recommend you use licensed contractors to do the work, so when you go to sell the home, the buyer will know the wiring, plumbing, etc. was up to code when completed. Good luck.

DT,
If you are not changing the roof line there will be no problem anyway.
Margaret

I suggest you check with the City of Austin ordinance, see the link below.

http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/zoning/index.cfm

The link to the ordinace is below.