If you’ve been dreaming of more space—maybe a big backyard, a few acres to call your own, or room for a garden and a garage that doesn’t feel like Tetris—it might be time to consider a home with land. And here in Lake County, Illinois and southern Kenosha County, Wisconsin, you’ve got some beautiful options.
These areas offer that perfect mix of quiet, rural charm and convenient access to bigger cities like Chicago or Milwaukee. But before you jump in, it’s important to know what living on land really involves. I live this life myself, and I absolutely love it—but I also know it’s not exactly like living in a subdivision. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering trading sidewalks for wide open space.
Understand the Systems: Wells, Septic, and Beyond
In many parts of Wadsworth, Antioch, Trevor, or Bristol, you’re not going to be connected to city water or sewer. That’s not a bad thing—it’s just something to be prepared for.
Wells: No monthly water bill (yay!), but you’ll need to test your water regularly and understand how your well works.
Septic Systems: These systems are super common in rural areas and work great—but they do need regular maintenance and proper use.
Bonus Tip: Consider a backup generator. I grew up with public sewer and water, so I had no idea that when the power goes out, your well pump and septic pump stop working too. That means no running water—and yes, the toilets won’t flush. If you’re out here during a power outage, a generator can make all the difference between mild inconvenience and full-on “what now?” mode.
Zoning and Land Use: Know What You Can (and Can’t) Do
Thinking of chickens in the backyard? Want to build a pole barn or run a small business from your property? Just because you’ve got space doesn’t always mean anything goes.
In Lake County, Illinois, zoning rules depend on whether the property is in an incorporated or unincorporated area—and here’s where it gets tricky: you can have both in the same town. For example, parts of Antioch or Wadsworth are incorporated (and follow the village’s zoning rules), while other parts are unincorporated and fall under Lake County zoning. If you’re not sure, Lake County’s zoning page has a helpful map that shows exactly which applies.
Over in southern Kenosha County, Wisconsin, it’s a slightly different story. Zoning is managed at the county, township, or village level, so the rules in Salem Lakes might be completely different than in Bristol, even if they’re right next to each other.
Zoning can impact everything from building additions to whether you can keep animals—so it’s always smart to double-check before making plans. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed? That’s what I’m here for.
Bonus: For unincorporated Lake County, click here for brochures on building permits, site development and zoning. The zoning section includes Ag uses, beekeeping, chickens and more.
Wrapping It Up (and What’s Next)
Buying land comes with some extra layers, but once you understand the basics—like how your water and waste systems work, and what zoning rules apply—you’re in a much better position to make smart, confident decisions. These foundational pieces help you avoid surprises and get one step closer to living the lifestyle you’re dreaming about.
Next up in Part 2: We’ll talk about internet (yes, it matters out here!) and the beauty of connecting with nature when you live on a little more land. Stay tuned!
As a REALTOR® with BHHS Chicago, Daina Jacobson helps buyers and sellers navigate the Northern Lake County, Illinois, and Kenosha County, Wisconsin, real estate markets. Based in Wadsworth, Illinois, she is also a former interpreter fluent in American Sign Language. When she’s not assisting clients, Daina devotes time to animal rescue as one of the co-founders of Two Furs Rescue. Her love for nature extends beyond her rescue work—at home, she enjoys caring for her many pets including cats, a dog, chickens, and ducks and planting and preserving native plants and trees.