While it would not be anticipated that undeveloped land would present any environmental concerns, open areas are subject to dumping, ranging from household trash to construction materials. Most debris found on undeveloped land is inert, but occasionally, construction materials such as asbestos or asphalt shingles and other items such as fuel tanks, gas cans, engines, oil cans etc. can have a deleterious effect on the subject property. Also, individuals change oil from vehicles on undeveloped land and leave soil staining and oil containers.

In addition, land that is vacant and appears to have never been developed could have had historical environmentally-impacting land uses. The Phase I Environmental Site Assessment will describe possible past uses such as agriculture activities or possible demolished industrial facilities.

Depending upon the location, undeveloped land can be impacted by off-site sources in close proximity.