Special restrictions regarding the development, tree cutting and seasonal use may be in effect due to bird, fish and other wildlife protection legislation. For specific information, contact the applicable county's planning department and the Washington State Department of Ecology. Back to the top Access to the Land Private roads, long driveways or ferry and boat access are likely to complicate regular access to the property and add cost to the construction budget. The cost and availability of public utilities must be verified in detail. The reliability of the local power grid is likely not to be the same in rural areas as in more developed areas.
Power outages are likely to be more frequent and voltage fluctuations greater.
For example, a private well may be an excellent source of water, but obtaining water rights and permission to drill a well may be a major challenge. And, the successful drilling of that well can be problematic and costly. The proximity of good quality wells on neighboring properties may be a positive indicator of the ability to install a similar well on the property in question but it is not a guarantee of success. Trucked in water, surface spring water and rain water collection systems may not qualify for the issuance of a permit. Septic systems can be a very reliable and cost effective way of sewage disposal.