Q: I'd like to know what I can do with recreational property.

That's what the real estate agents call it when it's not buildable. Couldn't I just build a little rustic cabin? How about a storage building for my boat?

A: After doing some research and conferring with King County personnel I think the easiest answer is that you can't do anything with recreational property except maybe picnic there. That's why these parcels are usually so inexpensive. If this is a waterfront parcel, the King County Critical Area Ordinance as well as several state laws, including the Shorelines Management Act and the Aquatic Reserve Area restrictions don't allow buildings of any kind within a substantial set back from the water. Even if it's not waterfront, you can't have a living space without an approved water source and septic system and most recreational properties don't have enough space to accommodate both. In addition, many don't "perk" for a septic system.

As for a small building for a boat, keep in mind that an accessory building must be just that, accessory to a house. If no legal house exists on the property you will not be allowed to build anything. Sometimes people drive a self-contained RV to their lot and stay there for short periods of time. That's probably alright as long as they take the rig to a dump station regularly.

Some recreational lots are not waterfront but may have steep slopes that limit building. Some are inland properties and have no critical areas but are not large enough to accommodate a septic drainfield or are too wet for a septic system. We have many of those located in areas with a very high water table.

We have many parcels of land that are not buildable on Vashon. They often sell over and over again as one dreamer after another thinks they can accomplish what others have not been able to do. The best choice for these properties is to sell them to a neighbor who might want a little more land.