Building a Home at Lake Tahoe

As the inventory of available homes for sale at Lake Tahoe continues to dwindle, there are still many lots available for sale at great values.

Lake Tahoe and Truckee are home to many award winning builders and architects. These professionals are familiar with the local ordinances. Building your dream home may not be as difficult as you think.

Building Regulations Lake Tahoe

The biggest challenge in building at Lake Tahoe and Truckee is that you can only build from May 1^st and October 15^th. However, with careful planning and working with a contractor, many people are able to create the perfect home that fits their vision of a mountain or lakeside retreat.

Lake Tahoe has agencies that work to protect the lake's clarity. Ordinances also ensure that the area does not become overbuilt in a way that diminishes the rustic landscape of Lake Tahoe.

Construction is limited to a certain portion of the available landscape. Runoff too, must be curbed. A knowledgeable contractor or planner can help you with the proper paperwork to navigate these agencies.

You’ll begin with the local building department to obtain permits. The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) also monitors how much of the land can be utilized in construction and asphalt covering. This also includes decks and is called coverage.

IPES Scores Lake Tahoe

Using the Individual Parcel Evaluation System (IPES,) TRPA assigns a score to each parcel of land in the Tahoe basin. The IPES score is different for each county, so you will need to verify this information.

Often the seller or agent will provide this information when listing a parcel for sale. However, it is important to verify any information in terms of utility access, zoning and IPES score prior to purchasing a lot for sale in the Lake Tahoe area.  

Current Buildable IPES Scores Per County

Douglas: 1
Washoe: 1
El Dorado:  1
Placer: 726

Best Management Practices Lake Tahoe

In order to protect the lake clarity, Best Management Practices (BMPs) were put into place to control runoff of soils into the lake. This soil erosion management applies to both construction and landscaping. All properties within the Lake Tahoe basin have to abide by these BMP regulations.

Drainage and vegetation, using rocks and other landscaping practices can effectively keep runoff from making its way into the lake. BMP requirements are specific to each site and area of the lake. You can hire a professional to get an estimate on abiding by the BMP ordinances.

Golf Lots for Sale in Lake Tahoe

There are currently many lots for sale all around Lake Tahoe. While home values continue to climb, lots are still available at great prices. Some are located in luxury and golf communities such as Lahontan, Schaffers Mill and Martis Camp. Affordable golf lots can be found in Northstar, Grays Crossing and Old Greenwood.

Lot Near Truckee River

Currently, I have an amazing lot for sale that has been reduced from $125,000 to just $110,000! If your dream home includes mountain living and river access, this is the perfect home site.

This south facing parcel has Northstar views, and a is a quick walk to the Truckee River. Enjoy shopping and dining in the quaint shops of downtown Truckee. A septic system is already installed for a 3 bedroom home, streamlining the home building process. With low elevation, excellent exposure and filtered mountain views of Northstar, this home would be an excellent candidate for a passive solar design or solar panels. This lot runs from River View Court to Glenshire Drive and is currently listed at $110,000.

With the limited amount of inventory available for sale in Lake Tahoe and Truckee, there has never been a better time to list your home for sale.

Additionally, many properties are selling immediately when they hit the market. It is important to work with a realtor who can let you know of properties before they come on the market.

Contact me today! I’d love to show you why I have so many satisfied clients. Let me help you find a place at Tahoe that is perfect for you. Whether you want to build your dream retreat or find an existing residence, I can help you!