Building out here in the country is far more complicated than building on a city lot, but it is well worth the effort when your dream house is finished. Locating and coordinating your power lines, well, septic system, and any outbuildings can be a challenge, especially when added to the usual decisions about the home design.
For those property owners planning to build in the near future, here's a primer on the steps you will need to take:
- First, go to the Kendall County courthouse and get a development permit, which will cost $100. You will be assigned a 911 address, and a yellow post will be placed on your property bearing that address. When they come out to inspect your lot, they will also tell you whether or not you will be required to put in a culvert for drainage at the road.
- When you have your house plans ready, send or bring a copy to the ACC, along with a plat map showing the location of the house, outbuildings, fences, well, and septic system. Check the Covenants for the required building setbacks, minimum square feet, etc.
- Contact Bandera Electric Cooperative when you are ready to have power hooked up on your property. If you have begun the slab by the time they put up your poles, you will not be charged for construction. If you have not yet begun to build, you will be charged for the cost of construction, but the amount will be deducted from your monthly bills once you have moved into your house. Depending upon their work load, you may have to wait a few weeks. Be sure to consider your trees when you tell them where to bring in your power lines, as they will clear ten feet on both sides of the line.
- Contact a well drilling company before you are ready to have water, as there may be a considerable waiting list. You will need to get a well permit from Kendall County, but the well drilling company will assist you in that, and they will help you determine the best location for your well.
- Contact a wastewater contractor to install your septic system. They will be able to determine whether you will be required to use an aerobic system or will be able to install a conventional system.
- Once you're into the construction process, just grit your teeth and try to survive! We will be happy to help you with any questions you may have.