Residential Land for Sale in Sterling, Michigan

This 1.32-acre wooded property in Arenac County, Michigan offers direct Rifle River frontage with the property extending all the way to the water's edge, R-2 recreational residential zoning, and native tree cover throughout near Sterling.

The property sits on Franklin Trail in the Rifle River Valley Estates subdivision within Deep River Township, with variable terrain featuring plenty of flat area to build on. Cedar and pine line the water's edge with mixed hardwood covering the rest of the lot, and the Rifle River curves gently along the southern boundary. The Rifle River is known throughout Michigan for its clear, spring-fed water, making it a favorite for canoeing, tubing, and trout fishing, with kayakers and tubers regularly floating past this stretch on summer afternoons.

Flexible owner financing options available!

R-2 recreational residential zoning permits single-family homes with 480 square foot minimum build size, along with recreational uses. Mobile and manufactured homes are permitted per HUD guidelines. Tiny homes and ADUs are allowed at 420 square foot minimum with foundation (cannot be on wheels). Camping is permitted with a permit for up to 14 days at a time. RV use is allowed temporarily but not for residency. Short-term room rentals are permitted with a township permit. Multi-family dwellings, home-based businesses, and bed and breakfasts may be possible through the special land use process. Maximum lot coverage is 30%, maximum height 30 feet, with setbacks of 50 feet front, 10 feet sides, and 25 feet rear. No HOA governs the property. No back taxes or liens. The property sits along the river with some mapped floodplain and regulated wetlands present on the southern side. A DNR Natural River Zoning Permit is required before building or installing septic or well due to DNR jurisdiction over the first 400 feet from the river. A wetland determination through EGLE is recommended as part of due diligence. A site evaluation found wet sand to 18 inches and saturated clay from 18 to 48 inches with seasonal high water table at the surface, meaning an alternative septic system would be required (site rated suitable with special restrictions). Electric service is available in the area, with buyer to confirm availability and connection costs. Well installation is needed for water with area well depths ranging from 35 to 333 feet and nitrate testing recommended. Propane is the typical gas source. No curbside trash pickup is available. Annual property taxes run approximately $380.29.

Located approximately 10 minutes from Sterling for everyday needs, 17 minutes from Standish, 20 minutes from Omer (known as the Sturgeon Capital of Michigan), 26 minutes from Au Gres for Saginaw Bay access, and about 45 minutes from both Bay City and Tawas City putting this Northern Michigan river retreat within reach of two well-known Lake Huron destinations. The Rifle River Recreation Area lies upstream offering additional hiking, camping, and lake access. Tawas Point State Park offers lighthouse views and sandy Lake Huron beaches, while Au Gres provides marina access, charter fishing, and Lake Huron views.

Contact us today to learn about owner financing options at 20-25% down and discover how this Rifle River frontage property offers Northern Michigan waterfront living with wooded privacy, recreational zoning, and your own stretch of one of Michigan's most beloved paddling rivers!