How Do I Know if My Lot Is Buildable?
Buying land to build your dream home—or a new development—is exciting. But before you finalize the purchase or start drawing up plans, there's one critical question you need to answer:
Is the lot actually buildable?
It’s not always obvious. A property might look perfect, but hidden restrictions, terrain issues, or code requirements could make construction expensive—or impossible.
In this post, RSP Engineers explains the key factors that determine whether your lot is buildable, and how to evaluate it before you invest.
What Does “Buildable” Mean?
A buildable lot is a parcel of land that meets all the legal, physical, and regulatory requirements needed to construct a structure on it. That includes zoning, setbacks, access to utilities, and the ability to meet drainage and grading requirements.
7 Things to Check Before You Build
1. Zoning Regulations
Every property is located within a zoning district, which defines what you can build and how. You’ll need to confirm:
The lot is zoned for residential or commercial use (depending on your project)
The building type and size are allowed
Minimum lot area, frontage, and other dimensional standards are met
Tip: Even if a house once stood on the lot, it doesn’t guarantee current zoning allows a new build.
2. Setbacks and Easements
Setbacks are the minimum distances your structure must be from property lines. Easements—like utility or drainage corridors—may further reduce your buildable area.
Your civil engineer can review a site survey and local codes to calculate your true buildable envelope.
3. Topography and Grading
A steep slope, uneven terrain, or elevation issues can increase construction costs dramatically. In some cases, major grading or retaining walls are required.
You’ll need to evaluate:
Slope steepness and direction
Drainage patterns
Need for fill, cut, or terracing
4. Flood Zones and Soil Conditions
Building in a FEMA flood zone may require elevating the structure, stormwater design, or special permitting. Soil quality also matters—unstable or clay-heavy soils can require deep foundations.
Your engineer may recommend a geotechnical study or FEMA map review.
5. Access and Frontage
Can the lot be legally accessed from a public road? Landlocked parcels or narrow driveways may require easements or shared access agreements.
Some jurisdictions have minimum road frontage requirements for issuing permits.
6. Utilities and Infrastructure
Make sure the lot has access to:
Water and sewer (or space for a septic system)
Electricity
Stormwater outfall
Gas or internet (optional but important for resale)
If utilities aren’t nearby, extension costs can be significant. Civil engineers help plan utility routes and coordinate with local providers.
7. Permitting and Local Requirements
Each city or county has its own permitting process. Some lots may fall under:
Historic overlays
Tree protection zones
Coastal or environmental regulations
HOA design restrictions
RSP Engineers can help research and navigate these issues before they derail your project.
How to Find Out if Your Lot Is Buildable
Before you buy or build, take these steps:
- Hire a licensed civil engineer to evaluate the site
- Review the latest survey and title report
- Check zoning with the local planning department
- Request a feasibility study or site plan review
Need Help Evaluating a Lot?
At RSP Engineers, we specialize in land development and site feasibility for residential and commercial projects. Whether you're buying a lot, building a home, or planning a subdivision—we’ll help you avoid surprises and move forward with confidence.
