Raw land can be a lucrative investment, especially if you’re planning a large-scale development. However, any commercial construction project requires due diligence and extensive site development before breaking ground. Below are some of the most important steps to follow if you’re investing in raw land development.

What You Need to Know About Raw Land Development

1. Check Zoning Laws

Local zoning codes regulate what types of activities can take place on certain plots of land. Even if your building site is located outside of town, it may be governed by county law that designates each parcel as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural.

Before closing on the property, check the local code to ensure they allow the kind of development you have in mind. Otherwise, you may have to resell the property or apply for a zoning variance, which can be time-consuming.

2. Conduct a Survey

The agent or property owner who shows you the land may only have a vague idea of its boundary lines or may have heard about them from someone else. A site survey ensures you know exactly where they lie, including any easements that may affect the construction plans. If a utility company or neighbor has the right to access a portion of the parcel you intend to use, you may have to adjust the building design.

Commercial development projects often call for more extensive surveys that report and describe existing structures, underground utilities, bodies of water, and topographical features. These provide information that can guide decisions about construction sites, storm runoff drainage designs, and meeting your infrastructure needs.

3. Plan Horizontal Development

Vacant plots of land don't often have the utility or road access that excavators, engineers, and construction crews need. Infrastructure development involves planning roads capable of bearing heavy equipment, electrical and water installation, and land grading. Site development may also involve clearing trees and shrubs, installing water drainage systems, and consulting with engineers to determine the ideal placement of buildings, parking lots, and entry points.

Construction companies throughout northern Kentucky have relied on Berling Engineering for thorough site development and planning for over 20 years. Their team of experienced engineers offers detailed infrastructure plans designed so each element works together as a whole. This family-owned firm is dedicated to customer satisfaction throughout the entire process. Visit the website for more on their site preparation expertise, and call (859) 331-9191 to discuss your project with a member of their team at the Covington office.