Proposals to develop land are reviewed by the Department of Development Services and regulated by the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors through interpretation of State law, the General Plan and County Code.

Development.
The ability to develop land depends upon several factors, including:
*Adequate septic capacity and potable water
*Traversable two-way access to property
*Various constraints such as erosive soils, steep slopes, floodplain restrictions, and sensitive habitat, wildlife or significant archaeological resources
*Conformance of the proposed development with General Plan, subdivision, zoning and other County codes.

What Is A Legal Lot?
A legal lot is one created in compliance with the State Subdivision Map Act and Butte County's Subdivision Ordinance. A building permit cannot be issued for a lot that has not been legally created. Lots that are on a recorded final or parcel map are generally considered legal. A lot could be legally created by deed prior to March 4, 1972 if it complied with the ordinances applicable at the time of its creation. Lots from old, antiquated subdivision maps are generally not considered legally created.

Communities.
Subdivisions and planned unit developments may have their own codes, covenants and restrictions (CCRs) that limit how property can be used. CCRs are contracts between property owners and cannot be enforced by the County. Homeowner Associations (HOAs) may be established to maintain shared facilities such as roads, community sewer, water and drainage systems, open lighting and landscaping. Be sure to investigate what rules, if any, govern your community.

Community Service Areas (CSAs) also manage various services for specific areas, and collect monies for their tasks through property tax assessment.