Sunday, May 14, 2006

BUILDING AND LOCATION: La Plata County has building codes and fire codes outlining the necessary design and construction of structures, and building permits are required for all new construction. Contact the La Plata County Building Department at (970) 382-6250 for information about building permits and inspections.

When considering the design of your "dream home," certain architectural styles may be more desirable than others due to climate, regional conditions and/or visual compatibility with your surroundings. Selecting an unobtrusive location for a building site, house colors that blend into the environment and downcast exterior lighting help minimize the visual intrusion of population upon the natural beauty of the land. Because much of la Plata County is mountainous, certain natural geologic hazards exist. Remember to consider geologic hazards in the design and siting of your home. We encourage you to contact the Building Department to learn more about geologic hazards in La Plata County.

Low-sloped roofs may require shoveling in heavy snow years. Steep-sloped metal roofs shed snow well and are desirable in snow country. Avoid roof designs that deposit snow onto decks, entry ways or driveways. Snow may harden like concrete in these areas if not removed promptly.

The sunny location of a building site in summer may be a shaded deep-freeze in the winter causing great snow accumulation and icy conditions. Likewise, a shaded exposure or steep slope for driveways and private roads makes access and maintenance difficult. Be certain to study your land in all weather conditions to determine the most desirable homesite and access.

Living adjacent to public lands may be a mixed blessing. Use by all types of recreationalists may bring the inevitable hiker, biker, picnicker, camper, hunter, fisherman, snowmobiler and others onto your property. While most people are sensitive to private property, be aware that not everyone respects the rules. When considering a piece of property, be sure to check out water quality, road maintenance, compatibility and any other issues that might be important to you. Part of our job in representing you as your real estate broker is to help gather any information you need to make an informed decision. Call or email us if we can be of assistance.

http://HomesInDurango.com / http://RealEstate-Durango.com

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