Need Advice on Joshua Tree Homesteads

[Chris Frydenlund]

I'm interested to purchase land in Joshua Tree, California. But I have concerns about the cost to develop raw land out there and if any permits are required. I am planning to place a tent on a deck and have a septic system to have a toilet and shower.

[Maggie Jones]

Hi @Chris Frydenlund

I actually close escrow today on a little homestead cabin on 5 acres just east of JT proper. 

I would definitely advise looking for something that already has water available - whether that's a grandfathered in tank/ u-haul rights or connection to a municipal line.  Also do your research on water districts and the parcel history.  The property I found had a meter box with no meter but it will only cost $90 with the Twenty Nine Palms water district to get it set up.  Compare this to over $16k for some of the other water districts in the area.

In addition to researching septic costs, consider a composting toilet and greywater system. 

Finally, I'd recommend using the Joshua Tree branch of the county building and safety office as much as possible.  They're open Wednesdays and have a better understanding of the homesteaders out there than the main office in San Bernardino.

Keep me posted on how it goes for you!