Guidlines for building on vacant land                                                                     

Topanga Canyon is an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County. Building permits are granted by the Los Angeles County Department of Building and safety. Their local office is conveniently located in the nearby city of Calabasas. Their contact information is:

 Los Angeles County Department of Building and Safety
26600 Agoura Road, Suite 110, Calabasas 91302-1954
Phone: (818) 880-4150
Fax: (818) 880-6279

Most of Topanga Canyon is under the jurisdiction of The California Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission's primary mission is to plan for and regulate land and water uses in the coastal zone consistent with the policies of the Coastal Act. In many cases approval to build could take up to two years. In addition many parcels that are not within Coastal Commission boundaries are subject to a recently approved Grading and Ridgeline Ordinance.

When purchasing vacant land one must also consider that land loans are more difficult to obtain than home loans. There are instances when sellers are willing to finance, or carry a loan for the buyer. These loans usually require a large down payment.

Keep in mind when considering the purchase of vacant land that an investment of time, money and effort are required by the buyer to conduct all necessary investigations to deem a property "buildable".

Here is a list (not necessarily complete) of items needed or to be considered before building on vacant land.

1. Survey to determine boundaries.
2. Geology Report to determine stability of the land for foundations.
3. Soils and percolation test.
4. Driveway and access must conform with Fire Department regulations.
5. Approval must be obtained from Coastal Commission and County Building Department.
6. Wells or water meters and electricity.
7. State or National Parks restrictions.

Many times we're asked to recommend builders, architects, inspectors and engineers. Since we have no official affiliations with any of them we are happy to provide you with two or three of each. Call or email us with any questions you have.