One of the most buildable counties in Eastern Washington. USDA Rural eligible, clear zoning rules, and affordable land.
📊78/100AcreScore
💰$4KLand $/acre
🏠$285KHome Value
👥46,250Population
📈+3.6%Growth (10yr)
🌊20%Flood RiskModerate
🌡️ContinentalClimateZone 5b
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Stevens County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Stevens County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Washington requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Stevens County Building Department
Colville, WA
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Elevated flood risk at 20%. Stevens County has significant FEMA flood zone coverage — careful site selection and flood insurance may be required. Check FEMA maps for your specific parcel.
20%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $4,000 per acre make Stevens County one of the most budget-friendly options in Washington.
$4K
Median $/acre
$285K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.86%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Stevens County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Stevens County sits in the heart of Eastern Washington. Spokane is 70 min away. No state income tax means your dollar stretches further here than in most states.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $4,000/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population46,250
10-Year Growth+3.6%
County SeatColville
State Income TaxNone
ClimateContinental (Zone 5b)
How Close Is Everything?
Spokane70 min
GEG80 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Stevens County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Colville. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Stevens County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Stevens County?
Check with the Stevens County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Stevens County?
Median price is approximately $4,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Stevens County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Stevens County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Stevens County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.86%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Stevens County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Washington, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.