Washington Couple Faces Regulatory Hurdles and Significant Costs for Home Construction
A Washington couple, Tyler and Wendy Chambers, is embroiled in a years-long regulatory dispute over their plan to build a home on their 66-acre property in rural Chelan County. They have reportedly spent nearly $300,000 on permits, studies, and other requirements. The couple purchased the residentially zoned land in 2021, which had existing infrastructure like power, water, and fiber connectivity. Their initial plan included building a home, a pole barn, and planting an orchard, with future considerations for their children and grandchildren to build on the property. However, the project became subject to a review under Washington's State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), leading to demands for various studies covering stormwater, erosion, and wildlife such as spotted owls, golden eagles, and deer. The most significant point of contention is a reported requirement to place 44.2 acres, approximately two-thirds of their land, under a permanent deed restriction as environmental mitigation.
