Your Complete Guide to Buying Land and Building in the Arizona Strip
The Arizona Strip, a remote and breathtaking region located north of the Grand Canyon, offers unique opportunities for land buyers and homebuilders seeking affordable property in the American Southwest. Communities like Littlefield, Beaver Dam, and Scenic provide access to stunning desert landscapes while remaining conveniently close to amenities in nearby Mesquite, Nevada and St. George, Utah. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about purchasing land and building in this captivating part of Arizona, including zoning regulations, permitting requirements, water rights, and practical considerations for remote property ownership.
Understanding Land Ownership in the Arizona Strip
Public vs Private Land
Land ownership in the Arizona Strip significantly impacts what you can do with a property. Approximately 80% of the region is managed by the federal government, primarily through the Bureau of Land Management, while the remaining 20% consists of privately owned parcels. This distinction is crucial for prospective buyers because you cannot build private structures on BLM public land. Federal lands are held for public use and resource protection, and private structures are generally prohibited without special authorization, which is rarely granted for residential purposes. When searching for land in Littlefield, Beaver Dam, or Scenic, always verify that the property is privately owned and zoned appropriately for your intended use.
Finding Land for Sale Near Littlefield and Beaver Dam
The Arizona Strip land market offers diverse opportunities for buyers at various price points. Current listings show properties ranging from small residential lots under $40,000 to larger acreage parcels exceeding $200,000. The average price per acre in the Littlefield area runs approximately $82,000, though raw land without utilities can be found at significantly lower prices. Online real estate platforms such as LandWatch, Land.com, and Zillow provide comprehensive listings for the region. When evaluating properties, pay close attention to whether utilities are already established, whether a well or shared water system exists, and what access roads serve the property. Properties on paved roads with existing utilities command premium prices but eliminate significant development costs.
Mohave County Zoning and Building Permits
Who Controls Building Permits in the Arizona Strip?
Even though the Arizona Strip feels remote and disconnected from the rest of Arizona, all private land falls under Mohave County jurisdiction. Mohave County owns the zoning enforcement and building permit authority for private land throughout the region. The county’s main permitting offices are located in Kingman, which serves as the county seat, with satellite offices in Beaver Dam and other locations to serve remote areas. This often feels cumbersome because Kingman is far from the actual land, but legally, Mohave County controls how private parcels are developed regardless of their remoteness. The county has adopted the 2018 International Building Codes and the 2017 National Electrical Code with local amendments for all unincorporated areas.
Building Permit Requirements
Before constructing any structure in the Arizona Strip, you must obtain proper permits from Mohave County Development Services. The permitting process requires two sets of building plans and truss calculations for most structures, with three sets required for properties located in the Strip area. Steel buildings and steel carports require two sets of stamped, engineered plans from a professional engineer registered in Arizona. Foundation plans may or may not be included in your building package; if not included, you will need an engineer to design your foundation. All inspections follow standard protocols, though the remote location means scheduling inspections requires advance planning.
Zoning Classifications and Setbacks
Setbacks and area requirements depend on your parcel’s zoning classification. Mohave County maintains various residential, agricultural, and commercial zones, each with specific requirements for front, side, and rear setbacks. Before purchasing property, request a zoning verification from the county to confirm what uses are permitted on your intended parcel. Building heights, lot coverage percentages, and minimum lot sizes all vary by zone. The county’s zoning ordinance also regulates accessory structures, fencing, and screening requirements. Fences under seven feet measured from the lowest adjacent grade generally do not require permits, but walls over seven feet require engineered plans.
Can You Build a Cabin in Scenic, AZ?
Building on Private Land
Yes, you can build a cabin in Scenic or anywhere in the Arizona Strip on private land, provided you follow Mohave County’s permitting process and meet all building code requirements. The community of Scenic offers properties with established utilities including portable water lines from Beaver Dam Water Company, electric service from Dixie Power, and garbage collection through Virgin Valley Disposal. Properties with these utilities already in place simplify the building process considerably. Many lots have been professionally surveyed and are ready for development.
BLM Land Restrictions
Much of the Arizona Strip consists of federal public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management as part of the Arizona Strip District. You cannot build a private cabin on BLM public land. Federal lands are held for public use and resource protection, and private structures are prohibited without special authorization. The BLM may issue special use permits or rights-of-way for infrastructure such as utilities and access roads, but these are not building permits for private cabins. Certain areas are entirely off-limits or highly restricted, including wilderness areas, national monuments, and Areas of Critical Environmental Concern.
Building Requirements for Remote Locations
Building in remote areas of the Arizona Strip presents unique challenges. Access to utilities such as water, electricity, and sewage systems may be limited, requiring off-grid solutions. Solar power systems are popular and well-suited to the region’s abundant sunshine. Water can come from wells, shared water systems, or hauled water stored in cisterns. Mohave County requires a septic system before you can establish long-term residence, though you can camp on your property short-term without one. The county allows tiny homes with a minimum of 170 square feet. For off-grid setups, you can add power by solar or wind, water by cistern or water haul service, and sewer by septic.
Water Rights in the Arizona Strip Explained
Understanding Arizona Water Law
Water rights represent a critical consideration for land ownership in the Arizona Strip. Arizona operates under the doctrine of prior appropriation for surface water rights, meaning rights are granted based on the principle of first in time, first in right. Groundwater is regulated under the Groundwater Management Act passed in 1980. The Arizona Strip falls outside the Active Management Areas where groundwater is most strictly regulated, which provides more flexibility for well drilling. However, the Arizona Department of Water Resources regulates all groundwater wells statewide, requiring a Notice of Intent to Drill before any well work begins. A licensed well drilling contractor must perform all drilling work.
Obtaining Water for Your Property
Properties in Littlefield, Beaver Dam, and Scenic may access water through several methods. Some developed areas have access to the Beaver Dam Water Company, which provides portable water service. Shared well systems serve certain subdivisions, with water shares allocated to each participating parcel. For properties without established water access, drilling a private well is common, though depths vary significantly across the region. Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Arizona through House Bills 2363 and 2830. When purchasing property, carefully evaluate existing water infrastructure, water rights that transfer with the property, and the feasibility and cost of developing new water sources.
Best Roads for Accessing Remote Arizona Strip Properties
Key Access Routes
Accessing properties in the Arizona Strip requires understanding the region’s unique road network. Interstate 15 provides the primary access corridor, with Littlefield and Beaver Dam located at Exit 9, approximately 25 minutes from St. George, Utah. This convenient interstate access makes the area surprisingly accessible despite its remote character. Properties along paved roads like Riverside Drive offer reliable year-round access. Many interior properties are accessed via graded dirt roads that may become challenging during adverse weather. When evaluating property, consider road conditions, maintenance responsibilities, and whether emergency services can reach your location.
Safety Considerations for Remote Travel
Traveling in the Arizona Strip requires preparation, especially when visiting remote properties. Inform someone of your travel plans and expected return times, as cell service may be limited in certain areas. Carry extra water, food, and emergency supplies. During summer months, temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making adequate water essential. Flash flooding can occur during monsoon season, potentially affecting low-lying roads and washes. The Virgin River Gorge, located east of Beaver Dam, represents one of the region’s most dramatic landscape features but can experience winter weather that temporarily closes Interstate 15.
Internet and Cell Service in the Arizona Strip
Connectivity Options
Internet and cell service in the Arizona Strip varies significantly by location. Communities closer to Interstate 15 generally have better connectivity than remote interior properties. Satellite internet services such as Starlink have dramatically improved options for rural residents, providing high-speed connections regardless of location. Traditional cellular coverage may be spotty, with better reception near Mesquite, Nevada and along the interstate corridor. When evaluating properties, test cell reception on-site if connectivity is important to your plans. Many residents use mobile hotspots as their primary internet connection when traditional options are unavailable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary land ownership structure in the Arizona Strip?
Approximately 80% of the Arizona Strip is managed by the federal government, primarily by the Bureau of Land Management, while the remaining 20% is privately owned.
Can I build on BLM land in the Arizona Strip?
No, you cannot build a private cabin or residence on BLM public land. Private structures are generally prohibited on federal lands.
Who issues building permits for the Arizona Strip?
Mohave County Development Services issues all building permits for private land in the Arizona Strip, with main offices in Kingman and satellite offices in Beaver Dam.
Can I live off-grid in the Arizona Strip?
Yes, you can set up an off-grid homestead with solar or wind power, cistern or hauled water, and septic systems. The county requires a septic system for long-term residence.
How do I obtain water for property in the Arizona Strip?
Water options include connecting to the Beaver Dam Water Company where available, drilling a private well, participating in shared well systems, or hauling water to cisterns.
Are tiny homes allowed in Mohave County?
Yes, Mohave County allows tiny homes with a minimum size of 170 square feet.
Conclusion
The Arizona Strip offers compelling opportunities for land buyers and homebuilders seeking affordable property in a stunning desert landscape. Communities like Littlefield, Beaver Dam, and Scenic provide the rare combination of remote tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities in nearby Nevada and Utah. Success in purchasing and building here requires understanding Mohave County’s permitting requirements, securing reliable water access, and planning for the practical challenges of remote property ownership. By navigating these considerations thoughtfully, you can establish your dream property in one of Arizona’s most unique and beautiful regions.