What Does It Mean When a Lot Is “Certified”?

What Does It Mean When a Lot Is “Certified”?
A Guide from Your Local Experts at Brown McMillen Real Estate in Burlington, WA

If you’ve been browsing land listings in Skagit County or dreaming of building your own home somewhere in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, you might have come across the term “certified lot.” But what exactly does that mean—and why is it important when purchasing land?

At Brown McMillen Real Estate, we’re here to help you understand the ins and outs of land purchases so you can make confident, informed decisions.

🏡 What Is a Certified Lot?

When a lot is referred to as certified, it typically means that the land has been officially reviewed and approved for a specific use—most often residential building. Certification can come from local government agencies, health departments, or licensed professionals like land surveyors, depending on the type of approval.

In practical terms, a certified lot is one that meets important criteria like zoning, access, and suitability for utilities or septic systems.

✅ Common Types of Lot Certifications in Skagit County

1. Certified Buildable Lot
This type of certification means the county has approved the lot for residential construction. The land meets zoning requirements, has proper access, and doesn’t have restrictions that would prevent building.

2. Septic Approval / Perc Test Certification
If the lot is in an area without city sewer (common in rural Skagit County), a septic system will be needed. A perc test determines if the soil can handle waste drainage. Certification confirms that the land has passed the test and is approved for septic installation.

3. Survey Certification
A licensed surveyor has officially marked the property boundaries. This is critical for legal clarity, building placement, and avoiding disputes with neighbors.

4. Plat Certification
For lots in a subdivision, a certified plat means the development map has been approved by Skagit County and includes key elements like road access, easements, and drainage plans.

5. Environmental Certification
If a property is near sensitive areas like wetlands or creeks, it may need to be reviewed by environmental agencies. Certification confirms the lot complies with environmental regulations and is cleared for development.

🛠️ Why Does Certification Matter?

Purchasing land without the right certifications can lead to unexpected costs, delays, or even the inability to build at all. Certification ensures the lot:

• Is legally buildable

• Has a clear septic or sewer solution

• Meets zoning and environmental regulations

• Has verified and recorded property boundaries

🤝 Let Brown McMillen Real Estate Help You Navigate It All

Land sales can be complex—but they don’t have to be stressful. At Brown McMillen Real Estate, we’ve been proudly serving Burlington and the greater Skagit Valley for over 50 years. Our team knows how to navigate local land use requirements and can help you determine whether a lot is truly ready for your plans.

Whether you’re dreaming of wide-open acreage in Sedro-Woolley, a tucked-away lot near Mount Vernon, or a buildable parcel just outside Burlington, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to talk land?
Give us a call or stop by our office in Burlington—we’d love to help you build from the ground up, the right way.