California
Land Development Feasibility Study
Before you buy land, an engineer checks zoning, utilities, access, flood zones, soils and costs to see what can actually be built.
What the work involves
A due diligence or feasibility study reviews a parcel's zoning, setbacks, utility availability and capacity, road access, floodplain and wetland constraints, soils, topography and permitting path, then estimates a buildable area and order-of-magnitude site costs. It often includes a conceptual site layout or lot yield. The result helps a buyer or lender decide whether the price makes sense and what approvals will take before the purchase closes.
Local conditions we plan for
- High seismic hazard and active faults
- Wildfire in the wildland urban interface
- Landslides and debris flows on steep slopes
- Coastal bluff erosion and sea level rise
Building code: California Building Standards Code (Title 24), based on the 2024 IBC and IRC, statewide (ICC adoption chart, April 2026).
When you need it
- Considering buying raw land or a redevelopment site
- Need to know how many lots or how much building area fits
- Unclear whether water, sewer or road access is available
- Parcel may contain wetlands, floodplain or steep slopes
- Lender or investor wants a due diligence report
Frequently asked questions
How much does land Development Feasibility Study cost?
Across the US, land Development Feasibility Study usually costs $2,500 to $25,000. Estimate. Small single-lot checks can be a few thousand dollars; multi-acre commercial due diligence with a conceptual plan and agency meetings costs more. Surveys, Phase I ESA and geotechnical work are usually separate.
How long does land Development Feasibility Study take?
Plan on 2 to 6 weeks, often timed to the purchase contract due diligence period from signed proposal to stamped deliverables, longer if a site visit, soil testing or a permit review cycle is involved.
Is a permit required for land Development Feasibility Study?
Often not on its own, but the findings frequently lead to work that does need a permit. We tell you which parts of the follow-up work your local building department will review, and can prepare those drawings too.
How do I verify an engineer's license in California?
Engineers practicing in California are licensed by the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists (BPELSG). You can confirm a license number and its status in the board's public license search before you sign a contract.
Which building code applies in California?
California Building Standards Code (Title 24), based on the 2024 IBC and IRC, statewide (ICC adoption chart, April 2026). Cities and counties can add local amendments, which is one reason to hire an engineer who works in your area.
What site problems do engineers see most in California?
Common issues include high seismic hazard and active faults, wildfire in the wildland urban interface, landslides and debris flows on steep slopes and coastal bluff erosion and sea level rise.