Developing Raw Land Outside City Limits

Photo by RTImages via Shutterstock

Buying raw land with the intent to build can be exciting, but there are many things to consider before you make the purchase final. Building requirements: From soil type, building setback requirements, electrical accessibility, well drilling, sewer placement and everything in between, learn what needs to be done and planned before beginning the project ahead.

Soil Type

The type of soil can have a huge impact on the cost of excavation. Sandy or rich soil will make for easy excavation; however, if your ground is Rocky, or bedrock is present, it will be more challenging and likely require heavier equipment to complete the task at hand. Setback: City, county and state setback means the structure you are building will need to be set back a certain distance from the property line. It's always best to check with the county and learn the requirements before you begin your excavation.

Electrical and Other Utilities

Check with your local power company to understand the means and requirements for connecting your electricity.

The power company will send an employee to look over your project and inform you of your best options for hooking up power. Will a new pole need to be set? (If so, will this pole obstruct a view you were looking forward to having?) Will electricity be brought to your land underground? Be sure to check with your power company at the beginning of your project to secure a spot on their calendar to keep your project moving in a timely fashion.

Well Drilling 

You will need to get ahold of a drilling company to discuss the location for drilling your well. Your well will need to be a certain distance from your sewer system and land setbacks. The well company will give you an estimate of how deep your well may be due to neighboring wells; however, they won’t be able to guarantee a certain depth. Well cost is based on how deep they need to drill to get the needed gallons-per-minute that will be suitable for your particular needs.

Sewer Perk Test

The ground type will determine what sewer system will be needed for your project. The sanitation department will dig a hole on your property and, after examining the soil (perk test), they will decide what system is suitable for your project. If your structure is residential in nature your system size will usually be determined by how many bedrooms you will have as well as the soil type.

Other Tips

If you visit your county office and inquire about your upcoming building project, they can give you guidance as to what you’ll need to be aware of and who to get in contact with as you begin your project. You’ll need a file or folder to keep all building-related paperwork together. Staying organized will be key as you proceed. Typically, the beginning of a project will be full of many delays, so take a deep breath, and do your best to enjoy the satisfaction of each task as you see it come to completion.