Checklists

California raw land buyer checklist

Use this checklist to structure raw-land diligence. Check items in order, and treat unchecked hazards as open risk until verified with official sources.

Updated 2026-08-29

Useful sources for searching: Official sources to verify buildability ↓

Checklist

APN(s) and assessor map match the offer

City vs unincorporated jurisdiction confirmed

Zoning + overlays + specific plan checked

Legal access / road maintenance documents reviewed

FEMA flood & floodway screened

CAL FIRE FHSZ / WUI screened

Slope, landslide, fault screens reviewed

Septic/well or public utility path identified

Easements & title exceptions read

People also ask

Is this checklist complete?

It is a strong first pass. Complex sites need more specialty studies.

Official sources

Last verified 2026-08-29. Re-check agency maps before decisions — vintages change.

Related

Screen this on a California parcel

Parcel View checks official public GIS for zoning, flood, fire, soils, and planning — every finding linked to the source.