Why a gambrel roof?
Why not a gambrel roof?
I have an existing barn on my property built in the 1930s/1940s. Architecturally it's pretty nice, but the ceiling height on the bottom floor was 9 1/2 feet above grade. I needed at least 10 feet ceilings to get my tractors inside, so I excavated down 2 feet and poured a 6" concrete floor with no drainage about 20 years ago. It has worked out well for me.
In my case, the foundation walls were poured, and I left the foundation at each door entrance raised about 6 inches to help keep water out during a hard rain. I built small ramps inside and out to drive over them. In addition, I excavated around the barn to create a swale that would direct water away from the barn on all sides, and added a french drain at the perimeter of the swale to keep water from pooling.
This is not difficult if you pay an experienced attorney. (If you are paying an attorney, that should be hardship enough!) They know all the methods to exhibit this.
Well, your issue is due to a mandated height restriction.
And you have chosen one of the tallest roof designs in existence.
To your original query: I have learned that there are few things more annoying than a building with issues related to water infiltration. If I were looking to buy a home, and the building had a garage with a floor below the surrounding grade, I would look for another home. Just not worth the hassle.
Have you considered asking for a variance?
Height restrictions are most often a concern of appearance.
Bring professional drawn PICs showing how your extra 24 inches will not be ugly.