Avoid this mistakes when building in Santa Fe
Before you dive into the design and drawings for that new project in Santa Fe, it's crucial to understand the local permitting landscape. What are the most common stumbling blocks that can cause delays and headaches? In this article, we will be shedding light on key aspects of the Santa Fe building and permitting process, focusing on potential pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
What can go wrong and how to avoid it
Is your property eligible for a permit?
Confirm you have a legal lot of record with the County Clerk. This is the foundational step; without a legally recognized parcel of land, obtaining permits will be impossible. Your local County Clerk's office can provide the necessary documentation and verification.
Ensure your driveway meets Fire Department access - verify current rules most driveways need to be 14' wide! Fire safety regulations are non-negotiable. The Fire Department requires adequate access for emergency vehicles, and current standards often mandate wider driveways than older properties might have. Confirm these specifics early to avoid costly revisions.
Address any existing zoning violations before building. Unresolved zoning issues can halt your project before it even starts. It's crucial to identify and rectify any past non-compliance on the property to ensure a smooth permit application process.
Understand the limitations of your property
Consider utility/access easements, HOA rules, and historic/overlay district guidelines. Easements can dictate where you can build and what you can do on certain parts of your land, as others may have rights to use them. If your property is part of a Homeowner's Association, their covenants and restrictions will significantly influence your project.
Be aware of setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage (often max 50% in the City). These are fundamental zoning regulations that define how close to property lines you can build, the maximum allowable height of your structure, and the percentage of your lot that can be covered by buildings. Exceeding these limits is a common reason for permit denial.
Ensure your electric service, water, and septic system can handle your project. Verify with utility providers if your current electrical service can support the new demand, if your water pressure and supply are adequate, and if your septic system has the capacity for increased usage, or if a new one is needed.
Budget Smart, Build Wise
Many established builders currently have a base price around $450 per square foot. Factoring in your budget early will save you time and potential disappointment.
Don't get stuck in red tape: Let us help!
These initial checks – the legal lot, limitations of the property, and budgeting– are the gatekeepers to the permitting process. Getting them right early can save you significant time and frustration.
Feeling unsure about your property's initial eligibility for building permits? Contact us for a preliminary assessment.