Exploring The Possibilities of Rural Land Development

“It’s got nothing but potential.” There is a great chance you have heard these words while looking for land; quite frankly, the saying rings a little too true. After a while, fields all tend to look the same, bleeding together into a blurred pasture of possibilities. The problem is not whether land is out there but determining what to do with the land. How you envision developing property is a critical factor in what land you purchase.

To help narrow down the vague potential you might be hearing and seeing these days, we’ve put together guidelines for your consideration when purchasing property.

This blog will explore the basics of Oklahoma City zoning regulations and provide a better framework for its relevance when purchasing land or property.

First things first, understanding the basics of thoughtful development.

Simply put, land development is the process of transforming undeveloped or raw land into usable spaces. This can look like developing entire cities or, on a smaller scale, anything from neighborhoods to an ideal residence fit with your dream home and livestock. Whether you’re dreaming big or keeping things simple, it is important to remember that land development is not just about building structures but about creating spaces that meet the needs of residents while minimizing environmental impact.

Areas of consideration during development may include:

  • Thoughtful Planning: Prioritize efficient use of space, keeping compact development with mixed-use areas at the forefront of development plans.
  • Preserving Nature: Protect natural habitats, incorporate green spaces, and use native plants in the development design. Intentional sustainable design can conserve biodiversity, provide recreational areas, and improve air and water quality.
  • Sustainable Infrastructure: Prioritize infrastructure that minimizes environmental impact, such as energy-efficient buildings, renewable energy sources like solar panels, and efficient water management systems.

Land development that includes land conservation is good stewardship. Using these areas of consideration provides parameters to keep in mind when determining the “what” and “how” of land development. While they can be tweaked or refined depending on your plan, having them at the forefront of your mind during planning stages will serve you, your ideal client or community, and the environment.

Up next, determine what you want to develop.

Here is where things begin to take shape. That vague potential is going to turn into a plan! To get started, ask yourself if this project is personal or professional. Will this property serve you, your immediate family, friends, or a larger community like a small neighborhood? Your vision and purpose for the property will determine your next steps in development.

For instance, if you are developing land for personal use, you will need to consider the following:

  • Usage: How are you using the land? Will it be for residence, recreation, gardening, or raising animals?
  • Property Assessment: What are the size, zoning restrictions, easements, presence of utilities, and environmental factors of the property?
  • Permits and Regulations: What permits are required for construction, septic systems, driveways, etc?
  • Construction and Development: What preliminary work needs to be accomplished? Do you need to clear brush, grade land, or install utilities?
  • Budget: How much is it all going to cost? Pertaining permits, hiring professionals, buying materials, and outsourcing labor all add up. It’s essential to determine if all your visions are within budget. Otherwise, you may be sitting with a property full of potential but unable to accomplish your plans and purposes.

On the other hand, if you purchase property for more professional use, you will need to understand property subdivision. Believe us, it’s a process in and of itself.

Subdividing land involves splitting a larger parcel into smaller, legally distinct lots. Here’s a breakdown of the critical steps:

  • Planning and Feasibility: This initial phase involves understanding local zoning regulations to see if subdivision is allowed on the property. Factors like flood risks, infrastructure needs, and environmental restrictions are evaluated and may influence the decision.
  • Surveys and Engineering: A land surveyor precisely measures the property and creates a plat, a legal document that defines the new lot boundaries, easements, and access points. Civil engineers may also design the new lots’ roads, utilities, and drainage systems.
  • Approval Process: The subdivision plat and supporting documents are submitted to the local planning commission or municipality for approval. This ensures that the subdivision meets zoning codes and infrastructure requirements.
  • Utilities and Infrastructure: Once approved, physical work begins on installing utilities like water, sewer, and electricity to each new lot. Roads and sidewalks may be built, and drainage systems may be implemented.
  • Final Touches and Sale: After construction is complete and the plat is officially recorded, the individual lots are ready to be sold or developed.

Believe it or not, these guidelines are just scratching the surface of land development. However, we are fans of taking things a bit at a time. We hope this blog can serve as your beginner guide to land development and ultimately help you determine how to harness the potential of your property with precision and purpose.

Don’t have a property just yet? We have a few ideas in mind. If anything strikes you, contact us, and one of our dedicated team members will get in touch!