What should I look for in a building site?

            If you haven’t already purchased a piece of land you should look for a few key features.  The building site ideally should be an approved building site.  The APA, or Adirondack Park Agency, typically is the primary authority.  They set standards for whether or not a piece of land is developable, how many structures are permitted, type of structure permitted and so on.  If it has not been approved by them already, a JIF (Jurisdictional Inquiry Form)  may be required to see if they have jurisdiction.  Any lakefront or wetland margin area definitely falls under their jurisdiction.  Their offices are located in Raybrook, NY next to DEC and the trooper barracks.

            You’ll also want to check the deed restrictions.  Since these are set by original owners or associations, they can vary from no livestock to one dwelling unit.  It is also important to notice what township you are in, and whether or not you may be within village limits.  Once you determine this, pay a visit to the building code official.  Have a chat with him and inquire into the by-laws set forth by the township.  Some townships do not have any building by-laws still, and hence they fall back on the minimum state requirements.  Other townships have very restrictive rules and setbacks, which might interfere with your plans.

            Once you have established that your proposed project will be legally possible, look at the site itself.  Ideally it should have a flat, dry place to build a house.  A rugged, hilly wet site is going to consume a lot of the building budget, and hence you should prepare yourself for that.  Orientation is also important, more on which can be found in the FAQ’s.

            It is also imperative that you understand the utility access to the property.  Does it have electric service nearby?  Maybe it has town water or sewer?  Is there an association cost I have to pay for the utilities?  Is there telephone and cable?  Is there a fire hydrant for lower insurance?  Is it a maintained road? Some of these features you can live without, but some are imperative.

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