If you're looking for an upscale home and community to move to, the gorgeous Portola Valley, California might lure you with its “green and gold valley.” Portola Valley's environment is very important to their residents, and they like to show off the many natural wonders within its borders with a trail system and many hiking paths. Promoting safety and environmental awareness is done by many of the citizens as well. Commercial areas only exist provided they serve the purposes of the community more than anything else. A spirit of community is high in the town with volunteer committees, classes opened to townspeople and plenty of parks and recreations for people of all ages. While building houses on the land is okay, there are a number of guidelines and considerations one must know before beginning construction. This is in order to maintain the small town feel and protect the natural environment of the land.