What Should I Check Before Buying Land in Lake City, Colorado?

Start with the Hinsdale County Building Department, which handles questions about building, zoning and development. I am not giving legal advice, and I did not research individual parcels, so confirm each item for the property you want.

What does the county provide?

The Building Department page lists the Hinsdale County Zoning and Planning Regulations, a Construction Planning Guidelines document, Building Permit Guidelines, Building Plan Submission Guidelines and County Design Criteria. A Planning Commission is also listed on the county site.

What about floodplain?

If a building site may be in a floodplain, the county directs you to its Floodplain Application Checklist and Floodplain Application to determine whether a floodplain development permit is needed.

What about septic?

Septic systems need a separate permit, and the design must be approved before a building permit is issued. See my post on septic systems.

How much land is public?

Wikipedia reports that 96.5 percent of Hinsdale County is public land, so private parcels are limited. See my post on how big Lake City is.

What should I ask before I make an offer?

• What is the zoning and what is allowed?
• Is any part of the parcel in a floodplain?
• How would I get a septic system approved?
• What are the access and winter road arrangements?
• What permits and fees apply to my plans?

What is the bottom line?

A beautiful lot is not a buildable lot until zoning, floodplain, septic and access are confirmed. Ask the county first.

Who handles zoning in Hinsdale County?

The county Building Department answers questions about zoning and development.

How do I know if a lot is in a floodplain?

Use the county's floodplain checklist and application.

Is most land in the county private?

No. 96.5 percent is public land, per Wikipedia.

Do I need a septic permit?

Yes, for a septic system.

Connect with a great real estate agent in Lake City, Kelsey Loftis with Crystal Peak Properties. Phone: (970) 784-6768 · Email: kelseyloftis@gmail.com · Website: crystalpeakproperties.com

Sources: Hinsdale County, Building Department page; Wikipedia, Hinsdale County, Colorado. Confirm details for any specific parcel.