How many U.S. counties set no minimum dwelling size?

60 of the 587 counties reviewed so far (10%) set no minimum dwelling size. Each answer is a verbatim quotation from the official page, independently re-checked (latest 2026-09-12). Counties not yet researched are not listed.

What conditions usually apply?

Read the note under each county: most answers carry conditions such as a permit, a septic connection, a time limit, or a minimum size, and cities inside the county set their own rules. Always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Which states have the most counties that set no minimum dwelling size?

Massachusetts (14), Texas (9), Missouri (7), Alabama (6), Michigan (4).

Bolthole Index rulebook research · checked 2026-09-12

U.S. Counties With No Minimum Home Size

60 of the 587 counties the research fleet has reviewed so far — 10% — set no minimum dwelling size, so a cabin or tiny home is not too small by rule. Each entry quotes the official page and was re-checked independently. State building codes can still set room minimums. Counties not yet researched are not listed.

Method: the research fleet reads each county’s official pages, extracts the rule as a verbatim quotation, and a second independent reviewer reopens the source to confirm it. 587 counties reviewed so far; the list grows as research continues. Rules change — treat this as a verified starting point, not legal advice. See also: Counties With No Building Permit Requirement → See also: Counties With No County-Wide Zoning → See also: Counties With No Building Codes and No Zoning → See also: Counties Where You Can Build Your Own Home → See also: Counties Where You Can Live in an RV on Your Land → See also: Counties That Allow Tiny Homes →

60 counties across 18 states — open a state for its full cited list

Massachusetts14 of 14 Texas9 of 254 Missouri7 of 115 Alabama6 of 67 Michigan4 of 83 Kentucky3 of 120 Wyoming3 of 23 Iowa2 of 99 Kansas2 of 105 Oklahoma2 of 77 Idaho1 of 44 Illinois1 of 102 Montana1 of 56 Nebraska1 of 93 Ohio1 of 88 Pennsylvania1 of 67 South Dakota1 of 66 Tennessee1 of 95

Top 50 by Index Score

Keep exploring

Every county here has a full profile — water, land prices, hazard safety, seclusion, and the rest of its building rules. Start from the best states to live off-grid, the cheapest states for off-grid land, or search your own spot.

General guidance, not legal advice. Off-grid, building, and land-use rules are often set at the county level and change often. Verify with your county and state before acting. Data reviewed 2026-06-26.