Installing a Roaster--what to say to the municipality?

[AJPRATT]

I am in the process of negotiating a lease. Before we get too far along, I want to make sure that I will be able to roast on site. Do you have any advice on how to approach the municipality or good questions to ask them? How do I explain to them what I need?

 

[John P]

AJ,

Talk to local fire marshall for proper fire safety, ductwork, etc.
Talk to Health dept. Do you need afterburner? Any possible pollution "issues"?
Talk to Zoning commission. Is it ok to roast in that location?

In addition, I would know what roaster you will be using so you know the parameters for physical installation--including clearance around the roaster, ductwork, etc. Lack of this won't fare well for you. That should cover it. Have specific answers from everyone before you attempt to negotiate a lease.

And the adventure begins!

 

[AJPRATT]

Thanks, John... That's exactly my point. If I can't do exactly what I want to do, the location will be of no good to me. Thanks for your advice and for validating my concerns.

 

[John P]

Make them bend to your will. :twisted:

 

[AJPRATT]

Make them bend to your will. :twisted:

They won't even see it coming. My husband calls me the "mouse who roars". LOL

 

[BeanGrinder]

WAIT!!! Before you call the health department, check with the Department of Agriculture. In many states, coffee roasters are regulated by the Ag department and it is usually much easier to work with than the health department.

 

[Fresh Roaster]

Why not get a roaster that's safe, clean and doesn't require venting or pollute? :wink:

 

[AJPRATT]

I'd love that FreshRoaster, but I would rather own my machine out right. I understand that your program may be a great option for some people, but its not the way I am choosing to go. With your program, the more successful I am with my roasting business, the more expensive your machine will be. I'd rather have the fixed cost or lease payment until my machine is paid off.

 

[ElPugDiablo]

A bit off topic, do you know which roaster you are getting? And are you buying new or used? There is a bit of know how to roaster installation and ductwork. Make sure it is properly designed. If you need a installation, refurbish and repair guy, John Larkin in NJ is very good.

http://www.johnlarkinandcompany.com/

 

[AJPRATT]

Thanks, ElPugDiablo! Its actually, perfectly on-topic. I love the Ambex YM-10 and all of the information Terry has helped me by providing. There is a coffee roaster in the next county who has a YM-30 and I have spent some time with her, even allowing me to help roast.

I checked out the John Larkin site... it appears they are about 2 hours from me. I'll have to see if they travel "way down here". LOL

 

[ElPugDiablo]

I checked out the John Larkin site... it appears they are about 2 hours from me. I'll have to see if they travel "way down here". LOL

He traveled to Hartford to fixed my roaster...for a price.

 

[AJPRATT]

Thanks! It is good to know that they are willing to travel. They may have people through the state that work for them. I'll have to look into it.