How to Prepare a Commercial Lot for Building

At Stimson Contracting, we know that the success of any commercial construction project begins long before the first wall goes up. Proper lot preparation is the foundation—literally and figuratively—of a safe, efficient, and code-compliant commercial build.

If you’re planning to develop a commercial lot in the Spokane area, there are several critical steps that need to happen before construction begins. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to prepare a commercial lot for building—what to expect, what to prioritize, and how to avoid costly delays.

Table of Contents

1. Conduct a Site Assessment

2. Survey and Confirm Property Boundaries

3. Soil Testing and Environmental Evaluation

4. Understand Local Zoning and Permitting

5. Create a Site Plan and Layout

6. Clear and Grade the Lot

7. Install Utilities and Infrastructure

8. Ensure Site Access for Equipment and Deliveries

9. Stormwater Management and Drainage Planning

10. Conclusion: Start Strong, Finish Stronger

1. Conduct a Site Assessment

Every good project starts with a professional evaluation of the land. We look at:

• Terrain and slope

• Access points

• Existing vegetation or structures

• Utility access

• Potential hazards or limitations

A thorough assessment helps us design a build strategy that fits the property and avoids surprises later.

2. Survey and Confirm Property Boundaries

Before you build, you need to know exactly where you can build. That means hiring a professional to survey the lot and mark:

• Legal boundaries

• Easements

• Right-of-ways

• Setback requirements

We help interpret these details so your building is placed legally and efficiently.

3. Soil Testing and Environmental Evaluation

Soil testing ensures your foundation will be secure and long-lasting. We test for:

• Soil type and load-bearing capacity

• Groundwater levels

• Contaminants (if required by state or federal regulations)

• Environmental impact assessments, if necessary

The results guide decisions about foundation design and site grading.

4. Understand Local Zoning and Permitting

Spokane County—and most surrounding municipalities—have strict zoning codes for commercial buildings. Before we build, we’ll ensure your project complies with:

• Zoning requirements

• Land use restrictions

• Parking and accessibility regulations

• Fire code and safety requirements

Our team handles permitting and code compliance from start to finish.

5. Create a Site Plan and Layout

Next, we’ll design a site plan that lays out:

• Building footprint

• Parking areas

• Walkways and driveways

• Utility lines and drainage

• Landscaping and signage

This is submitted for permit approval and guides every step of construction.

6. Clear and Grade the Lot

Once permits are approved, we begin clearing and grading:

• Remove trees, brush, and debris

• Demolish any old structures

• Grade and level the land

• Compact soil for proper foundation prep

Proper grading ensures your site is level, stable, and drains correctly—critical for commercial buildings.

7. Install Utilities and Infrastructure

We coordinate with local utility providers to bring in:

• Water and sewer connections

• Electric and gas service

• Internet and communications lines

• Temporary utilities for construction

Getting these in early helps keep the entire project on schedule.

8. Ensure Site Access for Equipment and Deliveries

Construction requires access. We plan for:

• Driveways or staging areas

• Truck turning radiuses

• Gravel pads for heavy equipment

• Temporary fencing or signage, if required

Good access equals fewer delays and safer operations during the build.

9. Stormwater Management and Drainage Planning

Spokane’s weather demands proper drainage planning. Most commercial projects require:

• Engineered stormwater systems

• Catch basins, swales, or retention ponds

• Permits for runoff control

• Erosion control during construction

This protects your building, neighboring properties, and the environment.

10. Conclusion: Start Strong, Finish Stronger

Preparing a commercial lot for construction may not be the most glamorous part of the process—but it’s one of the most important. When done right, it sets the stage for a safe, efficient, and code-compliant build. When done poorly, it can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

At Stimson Contracting, we specialize in complete commercial site prep across Spokane and beyond. From zoning and planning to clearing and grading, we’re here to help you build with confidence—right from the ground up.