Buying Land in San Diego and the Land Entitlement Process

If you are looking into buying a plot of land in San Diego there are a couple of things to consider first. Below we break down the different guidelines when buying a plot of land in a residential area compared to a commercial area. As well as what you need to know in order to build and the steps in the land entitlement process.

It can feel like a lot to take in at once, but rest easy, we are here to help and get you the information you need!

Land Entitlement

Before purchasing a plot of land to build, it is good to know what land entitlement means and how it can affect your project. Land entitlement is the process of changing the zone on a property in order to a specific type and quantity of building(s). This process involves a variety of people including civil engineers, traffic engineers, biologists, soils engineers, and a variety of other consultants. Even if the plot is already zoned for what you have planned, you will still have to go through the land entitlement process. If you plan on buying a plot for several homes, the entire land entitlement process will take minimum two years, most likely more in San Diego County. For example, we are currently waiting on the green light to start building on 83 acres in Alpine, and that process began in 2015 (that was over five years ago).

Residential

First let’s look at where you are planning to buy a plot of land and what you plan to build on it. If you are looking into the residential area, you will be conforming to the city or county developmental guidelines and CEQA. When you first look into buying the plot, you will want to look into any limitations that come with the land. If the limitations still fit your needs and you decide to move forward, you will then begin working with the Planning and Development Services Department in your City or County.

It is in your best interest to partner up with a developer, such as DCarson Construction, before you begin the buying process. We can take what you are envisioning and go through the process with the city for you to ensure your vision is feasible. Working with a developer can save you months, if not years of work and stress along with costs. This is due to the developers relationship with the city and county and the developers knowledge from past projects and expertise. If you have already purchased the land, it is not too late to reach out to DCarson Construction. We are experts in working with land entitlement and the permitting process, and can assist you as you work with the city and county to speed up the process of help you navigate any road blocks you might be currently facing.

Commercial

If you are looking to build commercially on the plot of land, the process looks very similar to residential building. The only difference is the building is based off of square footage, while residential is based off of the number of units.

An Overview of the Process

Step One: Entitlements and feasibility

Step Two: Grading and Drainage Plan

Step Three: Technical reports for Storm water

Step Four: Hydro modification

Step Five: Sewer and Water Infrastructure

Step Six: Local and state roadways

With these six steps only being the beginning of the building process, this is why partnering with a developer early is a great idea! Each project and piece of land is unique, which can affect the cost and process of land entitlement and building. It is important to do research and be prepared as each plot will have different variables such as local jurisdiction, zoning, power accessibility, water, local area infrastructure, who your neighbors are and what they will and won’t allow, easements, and availability of utilities. Having a developer such as DCarson by your side on this journey can help ease the stress while making your vision come to life!