How to create a shed foundation with access panel for manhole grate?

[jim6]

Hi,

I'm planning to install a 7'x7' shed in the corner of my yard. The only spot suitable spot happens to have a stormwater manhole grate.

My current idea is to put a low-profile deck foundation using Tuff Blocks with a removable access panel so the grate can still be accessed. I'm unsure how to design the deck so the joists are properly supported while still allowing access. Any suggestions on the best way to approach this?

[EricL]

Hello @jim6 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your shed foundation.

Please allow me to compliment you on your presentation. Your Sketchup drawing looks great! Council rules and regulations are very strict when it comes to stormwater drains. You can't cover it, disguise it or impede the flow of water towards it. Access to it by council workers must be immediate and unimpeded. 

I'm keenly aware by your description that you have limited space in your backyard. However, I'm going to have to suggest moving your shed base 5 feet to the left so that the stormwater drain is not covered by the shed base. The last thing you want to happen is to get a letter from the council asking you to move your shed away from the stormwater drain. I propose having a good second look at your area and perhaps reconsider another spot for the shed.   

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @jim6 

I have to second @EricL's praise over your sketchup design It looks great! And yeah, same outcome in regards to the council/waterboard. Those drains cant be covered or blocked. If you can upload a pic of your backyard we may be able to come up with another suggestion. Or even change the design so its 9" by 5" footand you leave the grill open, maybe park the wheelbarrow over that way type deal or have a section of the outsiude wall hang the yard tools (shovel, spade, pitchfork, rake on the wall above the grill)

Dave

[jim6]

Thank you @EricL and @Dave-1 for the feedback. I’ve been looking at a few different layout options. One possibility is moving the frangipanni tree in the corner to free up space for the shed. My original plan was to put the clothesline over the grate, but that spot stays shaded most of the day because of the larger tree overhead.

I’d really appreciate any additional thoughts or suggestions on how best to approach the backyard design.

This is my current backyard design:

[Dave-1]

Good afternoon @jim6 

Would you be able to put the trampoline over to that corner? That way its "removable" as needed. Then you can put your shed where the trampoline is?

Franjapani trees are easy enough to move, I would suggest to move it during winter and to dig out at least 3 times the thicknes sof the trunks soil around the tree if its a large one. (Ive moved smaller ones and transplanted broken branches before that worked)

Dave

[JacobZ]

Hi @jim6,

Could the trampoline be moved to the corner with the manhole and the shed be installed where it is now?

Then, if anyone needed access, you could always just shift the trampoline.

Jacob