

So, when you are searching Maine for property and find large tracts of land for what appear to be unbelievable prices, DO NOT expect to find this low cost land close to a city.

These values tend to be more stable but don’t usually have rapid increases in value. Highest and best uses in these remote locals are often timber and recreation. Cheaper Land – Off-grid locations which are often hundreds of miles away from large employers and cities, have less potential value than locations closer to those areas.Here is a link to the online permit application It is obtained from the Land Use Planning Commission (LUPC) online or at the regional office assigned to your location. If the location is in one of the states unorganized territories a building permit is also required.
#BUILDING SMALL CABIN CODE#
If the property is located in an organized Maine township this can be obtained from the local town office or code enforcement officer. Permits – Just because you have found a remote location with few if any other humans in site you are still going to need a building permit.
#BUILDING SMALL CABIN UPGRADE#
Many have made the mistake of not planning for these requirements and are unhappy with the results and spend unnecessary funds to upgrade or replace systems later. A good understanding of your site and what your power needs are will determine what you should do from the start. Call an expert before you jump into this. Options for powering your life off grid vary from LP gas lighting, refrigeration and cooking stoves, solar power, gas or diesel generators, wind turbines, or combinations of all these. Cooking your dinner on the wood stove or open fire, can be a very satisfying accomplishment, however most of us today want or need electric power to fully enjoy our properties.

Packing ice and food in the cooler and some flash lights or lanterns for lighting may be all you need. For the weekender cabin you may not need any power. Things like lighting and refrigeration we take for granted in our on grid homes are different in your remote cabin with no power poles in sight.
#BUILDING SMALL CABIN FULL#
Alternative Power – Whether living off grid full time or part time, most of us want some modern conveniences.If your property is located on a private road or long driveway that is not shared with others, the cost of this road maintenance will be all on you. This fee usually does not include winter plowing. In my experience with organized road associations annual dues range from $100 to $300. Associations are setup to cost share the maintenance of bridges, culverts, ditches and other infrastructure necessary for the safe use of a private road. Often the road accessing an off-grid cabin is part of a road owners association. While this may be part of the appeal to many people, it does require some thought and potentially additional on-going expense. Private Roads – Living off the grid often means that your property is located far from a public maintained road.Is this going to be a recreational cabin location for weekends and vacations or a year-round residence? The answer to this question will guide you to make a better decision on location, site qualities, existing building requirements and other issues particular to you. Seasonal or year-round – Before you make a buying decision define your goals or uses for the property.Before you jump in and make that purchase here are a few things you should know. The dream of a remote cabin deep in the Maine woods is appealing to many.
