Additions, either to a dwelling or a garage, require a building permit.
Construction plans should include a cross-section of the house, a floor plan, footing plans and a certificate of survey.
See the
addition/garage handout for some code issues. Also, see the
single-family lot guidelines for standard setbacks from your property lines.
Note: You will be required to have
smoke detectors in all bedrooms throughout the house at the final inspection for final approval.