SENSE OF COMMUNITY Reflecting on why you
are in the market to buy mountain land will give you a clue as to the reality
of ownership. Certain aspects of your purchase decision, whether it is the
gorgeous tree cover, expansive views, lush meadows, beautiful rock outcrops or
wildlife enjoyment will be important preservation or environmental concerns.
You will join a new community of sorts, and while your low density environment
should provide maximum privacy, generally protective covenants are utilized to
provide a neighborhood framework and preservation guidelines. While in town you
have a series of ordinances governing society, rural laws have historically
related to farm or ranch ownership and are only now "catching up" with the
urban pressure. We need to preserve the character and natural surroundings
prompting your purchase in the first place. Covenants are an agreement with
public access, and regulate nuisances, i.e. unsupervised pets or livestock,
excessive noise, shoddy construction or noxious activity.
CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS You are in log Cabin Country!
While you may opt for more conventional construction, there are numerous log
companies awaiting your land purchase, with various levels of experience. Check
references, and look at the various design options to assure energy efficiency
and climate compatibility. The UBC (Uniform Building Code) will identify
structural requirements. Your project will require a building permit. Should
you drill a well you will start the process by obtaining a permit from the
State of Colorado. Septic tanks and leach field permits are obtained from the
State Health Department. With adequate plans and careful site consideration,
permits are not difficult to obtain. Having a good excavator can save money and
identify proper site considerations and minimize or consolidate utility
extensions.
MINERAL AND WATER RIGHTS Typically the
Sellers will transfer all mineral rights they own, but in many cases mineral
rights were separated from surface ownership years ago. If you are concerned
about mineral reservations, try to get a feel as to historical mineral activity
in the local areas. Look for unusual diggings or old mine shafts. Sometimes old
sites are opened with newer techniques. Ask the local county government about
mining operations.
Water rights are generally
associated with irrigation ditches on your property. You may acquire historical
water rights, however, in most cases you will not have the right to divert
water from any stream crossing your land. Provided you are purchasing larger
acreage, i.e. 35 acres or more, you should be able to drill a well without
having specific water rights.
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