From what source does the authority to require building permits and inspections derive? I've dealt with this whole process before, but every time I have to, I think, "But hey - it's _my_ property! I paid for it, I pay taxes on it, and I pay for the upkeep. As long as I don't build something that could potentially damage or destroy the property of another, why do I need 'permission' from the government?" I know there are lots of issues involved, but when did we, as a nation, give up the right to do what you want on your own property, and is there a way of getting that right back?
posted by Death by Ugabooga on May 23, 2009 - 26 answers

If a husband buys a house in his name only, would the wife have property rights? This is in Pennsylvania, regarding a newly purchased house to rent out, in a long-standing marriage, with significant but not total mingling of spousal finances. [more inside]
posted by NortonDC on Jun 19, 2007 - 8 answers

Does a utility company have the right to run a cable over my property to my neighbor's house? [more inside]
posted by bondcliff on Feb 23, 2006 - 27 answers

What should I do when a local political campaign invades my front yard without my permission? [more inside]
posted by Alison on Apr 12, 2005 - 30 answers

what does one do, if ones property has been resurveyed, actually all surrounding properties have been resurveyed, and he discovers that his neighbors house is within his newly corrected property lines? (original survey was done about 60-70 years ago - hence the errors)
posted by specialk420 on Jan 28, 2005 - 31 answers