Bolthole Index

Walthall County, Mississippi

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Walthall County, Mississippi

75Index Score / 100
#21 of 82 in Mississippi

Walthall County, Mississippi has no confirmed general building-permit office, application process or inspection program, and unincorporated land appears to be unzoned1. A local building permit may be required for modular-home installation2. The Town of Tylertown lists planning and zoning among its own services3, while septic permits for every address come from the Mississippi State Department of Health4,5.

Do you need a building permit in Walthall County, Mississippi?

Walthall County's general residential building-permit requirement, application process, fee schedule and inspection program could not be confirmed.

Walthall County's general residential building-permit requirement, application process, fee schedule and inspection program could not be confirmed. Mississippi required counties and municipalities to enact uniform building codes unless they opted out, but the statewide rule does not establish whether Walthall County opted out or which code edition applies6. A local government may require and charge for a building permit before installation of a modular home or modular-home component2. Where the modular-home inspection rule applies, local officials may inspect site preparation, foundations and structural, mechanical, plumbing and electrical connections outside the state factory-built standards2. Ask the Walthall County Board of Supervisors which building permit and code rules apply before construction7. An owner-builder working on that person's own residence is exempt from residential-builder licensing, not from building permits, codes, inspections, septic permits or local approval; the statute also limits an owner to one permit application, or one single residence, within one year8.

Who handles building permits in Walthall County?

No specialized Walthall County building department or building-permit office could be confirmed.

No specialized Walthall County building department or building-permit office could be confirmed. Start with the Walthall County Board of Supervisors at 200 Ball Ave., Tylertown, MS 39667, or call (601) 876-4947 during its published weekday hours7. Ask whether the county requires a building permit for the proposed structure, whether it adopted or opted out of the statewide code framework, who receives the building-permit application, what fees apply, and which inspections or occupancy approval are required6,7. For a modular home, specifically ask whether the county requires an installation building permit and inspects site preparation, foundations or outside connections2. For property inside Tylertown, ask the town whether it issues the building permit or zoning approval; the Mississippi State Department of Health still administers the septic permit1,4,5.

Does Walthall County have zoning?

Available county information indicates that unincorporated Walthall County is not zoned, but no official zoning ordinance, zoning map or explicit county no-zoning statement was confirmed.

Available county information indicates that unincorporated Walthall County is not zoned, but no official zoning ordinance, zoning map or explicit county no-zoning statement was confirmed1. The rules for setbacks, minimum lot size, minimum dwelling size, building height, lot coverage, accessory dwellings and short-term rentals also could not be confirmed. Ask the Walthall County Board of Supervisors about zoning approval for the parcel and proposed use, then review deeds, easements and subdivision covenants in the land records7. State health review of wastewater systems for subdivisions does not establish a general Walthall County subdivision or plat-approval ordinance10. The Town of Tylertown lists planning and zoning among the services it provides, but we could not confirm its ordinance, districts or approval procedures3. For property inside Tylertown, ask the town about municipal zoning approval and building permits; septic permits remain with the Mississippi State Department of Health1,4,5.

How do septic permits work in Walthall County?

The Mississippi State Department of Health administers individual on-site wastewater systems in Walthall County, and its permit is required to install one.

The Mississippi State Department of Health administers individual on-site wastewater systems in Walthall County, and its permit is required to install one4,5. Start with the Walthall County Health Department at 903 Union Road in Tylertown or 601-876-492411. A permanent water meter requires a permanent sewage-disposal solution, either sewer or septic; where public sewer is unavailable, apply to the health department for the required paperwork5. The residential application asks whether the applicant wants a department inspection, while financing, utilities or other authorities may separately require approval after installation12. The published Notice of Intent plus Final Approval fee is $197.50, subject to change and possible processing or other costs5. Only 19% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so resolve the site and soil review early13.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Walthall County?

Walthall County's rules for long-term RV living and tiny-home occupancy could not be confirmed.

Walthall County's rules for long-term RV living and tiny-home occupancy could not be confirmed. The indication that unincorporated Walthall County lacks countywide zoning does not by itself establish permission to occupy either type of dwelling1. Ask the Walthall County Board of Supervisors about occupancy, temporary use, setbacks, floodplain review and any structure-specific approval before buying land for that plan7. Wastewater rules still apply: all wastewater must go to a central sewer or septic system, and gray water may not be discharged onto the ground, into a ditch or into a body of water5. A permanent water meter also depends on an approved permanent sewage-disposal solution5. If the project is part of an RV campground or subdivision, state health review for the commercial development may apply10.

Building a home in Walthall County: steps in order

Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Walthall County or a municipality, then ask the Board of Supervisors what building-permit, building-code, inspection and occupancy rules apply.

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Walthall County or a municipality, then ask the Board of Supervisors what building-permit, building-code, inspection and occupancy rules apply6,7.
  1. For a modular home, ask whether a local installation building permit and limited local inspections apply2.
  1. Contact the Walthall County Health Department, determine whether sewer is available and complete the septic-permit process before requesting a permanent water meter5,11.
  1. Plan every wastewater stream for sewer or septic; ground discharge of gray water is prohibited5.
  1. If the driveway connects to a state highway, obtain the required driveway permit for a new drive or alteration9.
  1. An owner-builder working on that person's own residence is exempt from residential-builder licensing, but not from building permits, codes, inspections, septic permits or local approval8.

What should you check before buying land in Walthall County?

Resolve wastewater feasibility before closing because only 19% of Walthall County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.

Resolve wastewater feasibility before closing because only 19% of Walthall County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field13. If a sewer line is nearby, the applicant may be directed to connect and may need a rejection letter from the sewer provider before a septic application proceeds5. Confirm legal road access; a new or altered driveway onto a state highway requires a permit, while no county-road driveway requirement was established by the cited rule9. Ask the Board of Supervisors about building rules, floodplain administration, RV or tiny-home occupancy and parcel-specific land-use requirements7. Walthall County averages 63.2 inches of precipitation a year, so inspect drainage and usable building area13. About 65.8% of the county is wooded, making clearing and access costs parcel-specific13.

Watch-outs

  • Walthall County's general building-permit process and code-adoption status remain unconfirmed; the modular-home rule does not establish a building-permit requirement for every home2,6.
  • A permanent water meter requires an approved sewer or septic solution, and nearby sewer availability may affect whether a septic application can proceed5.
  • Only 19% of Walthall County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so resolve septic feasibility before choosing a house site13.

Sources

13 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 9, 2026

  1. Walthall County Government (county office listing) (2026 county census)
  2. Mississippi Uniform Standards Code for Factory-Built Homes Law Regulations
  3. Town of Tylertown, Mississippi Audited Financial Statements for the Year Ended September 30, 2022
  4. On-Site Wastewater
  5. Wastewater Application Frequently Asked Questions
  6. Mississippi Uniform Building Codes
  7. Walthall County Board of Supervisors (walthallchamber.com)
  8. SB 2874 Summary
  9. Mississippi Department of Transportation Access Management Manual
  10. On-Site Wastewater
  11. Walthall County Health Department (msdh.ms.gov)
  12. On-Site Wastewater
  13. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Walthall County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

Compared with neighboring counties

Like 3 of the 4 neighbors with published rules, Walthall County has no countywide zoning.

RuleWalthall CountyPike CountyMarion CountyLincoln CountyLawrence CountyJefferson Davis CountyLamar County
Building permitLimitedNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedRequired
County zoningNoNoNoNoNot publishedNot publishedYes
Septic permitsMSDHMSDHMS State Dept. of HealthMS State Dept. of HealthMS State Dept. of HealthMS State Dept. of HealthMSDH

County locator

Walthall County in Mississippi

75
County map
Walthall County highlighted among the Mississippi counties · colored by Index score

How Walthall County scores

75 / 100 · #21 of 82 in Mississippi · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion59100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency72100% ev.
Admin Boringness7268% ev.
Durability61100% ev.
Property Autonomy39100% ev.
Carry Cost8596% ev.

Evidence strength: 94%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$158kTypical home
0.8%Property tax
$3,741Land / acre
63.2"Annual rain
4.6% of yrsSevere drought
10.9 / yr (+9.9)Mid-century 100°F days
16.5 daysMid-century dry spell
3.14" (+7.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.39×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,283Home insurance / yr
0.6% / yrInsurance growth
1.21%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
26,331People within 30 min
2,527,406People within 2 hr
27,709Radius comparison (15 mi)
34.3People / sq mi
0%Federal land
87.9%Land at 15% slope or less
19%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
48,719 acWorkable land screen
65.8%Wooded land
34.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
66.1°FAvg temp

Scout Walthall County

Camp here before you commitBook a few nights nearby on Hipcamp →Already own land here?Earn money hosting campers — get $100 when you become a Hipcamp host →

Some links are affiliate or referral links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Search live inventory elsewhere, then cost and vet each candidate here. No copied listings, account, or paid data feed.

View your full hunt →
ZillowLand & lotsRealtor.comLand listingsLandSearchRural & vacant land

Each button opens a current land search for Walthall County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.

Sell land in Walthall County? Be the only seller on this page →

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.

Working estimate

—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—

A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.

Cities and towns in Walthall County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Answers from the rulebook for Walthall County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Walthall County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Walthall County's government office listing shows no planning or zoning department; permit/zoning inquiries are directed to the Town of Tylertown, indicating no countywide zoning of unincorporated land.

    Walthall County Government (county office listing) ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Mississippi rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Commercial places of Public Assembly subject to the Mississippi Fire Prevention Code.

    • Permit/compliance inspections are required for buildings defined in Miss. Code § 45-11-101(a-f), pursuant to Miss. Code § 45-11-105(2).
    • The code applies to buildings used for public assembly except where a county or municipality has adopted a fire-prevention code with standards not less stringent than the Mississippi Fire Prevention Code; the local provisions and enforcement mechanism apply instead.
    • Permit fees are not less than $400 and include, but are not limited to, each on-site inspection, attorney fees, architect or engineer plan-review fees, and other fees and reasonable and necessary travel expenses.
    • The regulation supersedes prior versions of Mississippi Administrative Code Title 19, Part 7, Chapter 7, and became effective January 1, 2025.

    permit fee: >= 400 USD (Includes but is not limited to each on-site inspection, attorney fees, architect or engineer plan-review fees, other fees, and reasonable and necessary travel expenses.)

    “Permits are required for commercial places of Public Assembly as follows: A. Permit/Compliance inspections are required for all buildings defined in Miss. Code § 45-11-101(a-f) pursuant to Miss. Code § 45-11-105(2).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Installation of a modular home or modular-home component in Mississippi, including Walthall County when the local government exercises the authority.
      “Local governments may require, and charge a fee for, a building permit prior to the installation of a modular home or component.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Mississippi residential-builder licensing for a person constructing or acting as general contractor on the person's own residence, including in Walthall County.

    • The exemption applies to a person who undertakes construction or improvement on the person's own residence or acts as the person's own general contractor.
    • A person covered by subsection (1)(b) or (c) may not make more than one application for a permit to construct a single residence or construct more than one single residence within one year.
    • More than one permit application or more than one single residence constructed within one year creates a rebuttable presumption that the construction is for sale, lease, rent, or a similar purpose.
    • The cited statute separately exempts certain related-person construction only when the property or improvement will not be for sale, rent, public use, or public assembly, and separately exempts owner-supervised property used by the owner only when it will not be for sale, rent, public use, or public assembly.

    maximum permit applications for a single residence: 1 application per year (Applies to a person specified in subsection (1)(b) or (c).) · maximum single residences constructed: 1 residence per year (Applies to a person specified in subsection (1)(b) or (c).)

    “(b) Any person who undertakes construction or improvement on his own residence, or who acts as his own general contractor in the performance of construction or improvement on his own residence; [...] (2) A person specified in subsection (1)(b) or (c) shall not make more than one (1) application for a permit to construct a single residence or shall not construct more than one (1) single residences within a period of one (1) year. There shall be a rebuttable presumption that such person intends to construct for the purpose of sale, lease, rent or any similar purpose if more than one (1) application is made for a permit to construct a single residence or if more than one (1) single residences is constructed within a period of one (1) year.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — A person building, repairing, or renovating the person's own personal residence in Mississippi.
      “A residential contractor is not a person building, repairing or renovating his or her own residence.”
    • Available (with conditions) — A person undertaking construction or improvement on the person's own residence or acting as the person's own general contractor for construction or improvement on that residence, for purposes of Mississippi residential builder and remodeler licensing requirements.
      “(1) This chapter shall not apply to: [...] (b) Any person who undertakes construction or improvement on his own residence, or who acts as his own general contractor in the performance of construction or improvement on his own residence;”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    The Mississippi Fire Prevention Code and State Fire Marshal enforcement for state-owned or state-agency buildings, public-assembly buildings, and buildings at least 75 feet high, subject to local fire-prevention-code exceptions stated in the statute.

    • The State Fire Marshal's Office adopted the 2024 editions of the International Fire Code and International Building Code effective July 1, 2024.
    • The Mississippi Fire Prevention Code applies to all buildings owned by the State or State Agencies.
    • It applies to all buildings utilized for public assembly except in a county or municipality that has adopted a fire-prevention code with standards not less stringent than the Mississippi Fire Prevention Code.
    • It applies to buildings whose construction permits were issued after the statutory effective date and that are not less than 75 feet in height, unless the county or municipality has adopted a fire-prevention code with standards not less stringent than the Mississippi Fire Prevention Code.

    International Fire Code edition: 2024 edition · International Building Code edition: 2024 edition · effective date: 2024-07-01 · height threshold: >= 75 feet (Local fire-prevention code exception applies where stated.)

    “AS OF JULY 1, 2024, THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI – OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL HAS ADOPTED THE 2024 ADDITION”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Mississippi counties and municipalities, including Walthall County, subject to any applicable opt-out
      “Under Senate Bill 2378 of 2014, all counties and municipalities must enact uniform building codes unless they opt out prior to Nov. 30, 2014.”
    • Partial — Mississippi counties and municipalities subject to the statewide uniform-building-code framework.
      “Under Senate Bill 2378 of 2014, all counties and municipalities must enact uniform building codes unless they opt out prior to Nov. 30, 2014. Please complete the following information regarding your county or municipality’s building code policies.”
    • Partial — Mississippi counties and municipalities, including residential building-code adoption subject to the statewide uniform-building-code framework.
      “Under Senate Bill 2378 of 2014, all counties and municipalities must enact uniform building codes unless they opt out prior to Nov. 30, 2014.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Modular homes in a local jurisdiction that has adopted the specified code or Mississippi Code Section 75-49-21.

    • The local-government responsibility described applies to modular homes within the local jurisdiction.
    • A local government may inspect site preparation, foundations, and structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical connections outside the state standards' scope.
    • Copies of noted violations must be forwarded to the State Fire Marshal's Office.
    “A local government may inspect site preparation work (including foundations) [not within the scope of the Standards as defined herein]”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Pediatric skilled nursing facilities regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health.
      “Upon completion of construction, an inspection shall be made by the Licensing Agency and approval given prior to occupying the building or any part thereof. The state and county health departments shall have access to the job site during regular business hours and shall conduct construction progress inspections as deemed necessary by the agency.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Pediatric skilled nursing facilities regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health at final inspection and close-out.

    • At final inspection, the State Agency must receive a Certificate of Occupancy or statement of approval from the local building official permitting occupancy for the facility's intended use.
    • If there is no local building authority, approval from the local fire authority having jurisdiction must be provided.
    • If the facility is state-owned and subject to the State Bureau of Buildings, Grounds and Real Estate Management, approval of occupancy must be coordinated between the state agencies involved.
    “A copy of the Certificate of Occupancy or statement of approval from the local building official permitting occupancy of the facility for its intended use. In the absence of a local building authority, approval of a local fire authority having jurisdiction shall be provided. If the facility is owned by the State of Mississippi and subject to the State Bureau of Buildings Grounds and Real Estate Management, approval of occupancy shall be coordinated between the state agencies involved;”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Individual on-site wastewater disposal systems using aggregate disposal systems in Mississippi.

    • The 50-foot measurement is the minimum distance from the water edge for all listed non-gravel soil textural classes and for slopes both less than and more than 8 percent.
    • Gravel is marked "NOT APPLICABLE."
    • The regulation states that these setbacks apply to all individual on-site wastewater disposal systems except spray-irrigation disposal and overland discharge.
    • This is an on-site-wastewater setback, not a statewide zoning setback for the dwelling or other structures.

    minimum distance from water edge: 50 feet (Aggregate systems in coarse sand, medium sand, fine sand, loamy sand, sandy loam, light loam, heavy loam, silt loam, sandy clay loam, light clay loam, heavy clay loam, light silty clay loam, heavy silty clay loam, sandy clay, silty clay, and clay; both slope categories shown in Table 1.)

    “TABLE 1 - SETBACK REQUIREMENTS FROM SENSITIVE WATER (Aggregate Systems) Minimum Distance from the Water Edge [...] Coarse Sand 50 feet 50 feet”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    RVs at a hunting camp where the camp uses the Mississippi Department of Health on-site wastewater application process.

    • The camp is treated by MSDH as a residential application.
    • Three or more trailers, cabins, or RVs on the property must be applied for as a commercial development.
    • For a permanent water meter, state law requires a permanent sewage-disposal solution; it may be a sewer line or septic system. If public sewer is unavailable, the applicant must apply to MSDH for the required paperwork.
    • Local jurisdictions have separate land ordinances; this claim does not establish a statewide land-use permission for RV occupancy.

    trailers/cabins/RVs triggering commercial-development application: >= 3 units (On the hunting-camp property.)

    “Yes. This is considered a residential application with us. If there will be three (3) or more trailers/cabins/RVs on the property, this will need to be applied for as a commercial development.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A tiny house or home intended for use as a residential dwelling that is within the State Fire Marshal's factory-built-home regulation.

    • The defined tiny house or home ranges from 80 to less than 400 square feet and may or may not be constructed on a chassis with or without axles or wheels.
    • If intended as a residential dwelling, it is treated as a modular home for design and construction requirements and must comply with the most current residential building code adopted by the Mississippi Building Codes Council.
    • When designed for permanent installation at its final destination, it must be installed on an approved foundation complying with the manufacturer's installation guidelines concerning manufacturing-facility and retail-entity licensure and occupant-safety installation standards.
    • The amended regulation superseded prior versions and became effective July 1, 2026.
    • Counties and municipalities may regulate zoning, utility connections, foundations, and permits for modular homes; local land-use controls may therefore add requirements.

    tiny-home floor area: 80 to less than 400 square feet (Definition in Rule 3.01.3(42).)

    ““Tiny House or Home”: Any closed structure, building assembly or systems of assemblies designed for use as a residential dwelling and ranging from 80 to less than 400 square feet in size, which may or may not be constructed on a chassis (with or without axels or wheels).”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Occupation of Factory-Built homes, including manufactured homes, sited anywhere in Mississippi and installed on or after July 1, 2009.

    • The home must undergo inspection under the Mississippi Inspection Program before occupation.
    • The inspection is conducted by an inspector assigned by the State Fire Marshal’s Office to verify compliance with the manufacturer’s published installation instructions and Mississippi Installation Standards.
    • The retailer/developer and/or installer/transporter must submit a Property Locator/Certificate of Installation Form certifying compliant installation.
    • For new or used residential homes involving a retailer, the form and required photographs must be submitted within three business days after installation and before porches, decks, or skirting are installed.
    • For secondary sitings without a retailer, the installer/transporter must submit the form and required photographs within three business days after installation and before porches, decks, or skirting are installed.
    • All necessary state-law or local-authority-having-jurisdiction permits must be obtained before installation.
    • Inspection fees are paid by the installer/transporter, developer, or retailer, not the purchaser; failure to pay an invoice within 45 days is a regulatory violation.
    • Factory-Built homes designated and properly certified not to be used for human habitation, such as hunting/fishing camps or storage, are excepted from the human-habitation installation requirements.

    installation inspection applicability date: 2009-07-01 · current regulation effective date: 2026-07-01 · certificate submission deadline: <= 3 business days after installation (Must also be before installation of porches, decks, or skirting; secondary sitings without a retailer follow the installer/transporter rule.) · inspection scheduling window: 7 to 10 business days after receipt of Property Locator/Certificate of Installation (May be adjusted for Division resource and manpower shortages.) · inspection invoice payment deadline: <= 45 days from invoice date (Nonpayment is a violation and numerous unpaid invoices may delay or deny license issuance.)

    “Beginning July 1, 2009, every Factory-Built home that is sited within the State of Mississippi shall be subject to inspection under the MS Inspection Program prior to occupation.”
  • Who permits septicState

    Individual onsite wastewater systems and related wastewater activities in Walthall County.

    • Walthall County is listed in the MSDH South Region.
    • The program also addresses recreational-vehicle campgrounds/lodging parks, septage pumpers/haulers, and individual water supplies.
    “The On-site Wastewater program develops policy and regulations and provides technical assistance to regional environmentalists in designing and inspecting Individual On-site Wastewater Disposal Systems (IOWDS)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed — Statewide individual onsite wastewater disposal systems; the Mississippi State Department of Health establishes the rules and the appropriate county Department of Health performs local inspections.
      “Notify the Department at least 48 hours before beginning construction if acting as the Certified Installer of an Individual On-site Wastewater Disposal System and, at that time, schedule a time for inspection of the system with the appropriate county Department of Health.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Design, construction, or installation of an individual on-site wastewater disposal system in Mississippi.

    • MSDH approval is required except for the statutory exemption in Mississippi Code Section 41-67-6(7).
    • For a two-acre-or-larger lot or tract, approval requirements are exempt only if all wastewater is contained on the lot or tract, no Mississippi or United States watercourse is impacted, and the installer submits a signed affidavit attesting to those conditions.
    • An individual on-site wastewater disposal system is acceptable only where centralized treatment is unavailable or infeasible, existing area disposal systems function satisfactorily, site conditions are satisfactory for underground absorption, private-water-supply separation/protection requirements are met, and applicable water-quality requirements are met.
    • Construction or installation designed by a certified professional evaluator or licensed professional engineer may not begin before Department authorization.

    statutory approval-exemption lot size: >= 2 acres (All wastewater must be contained on the tract, no covered watercourse may be impacted, and an installer affidavit is required.) · private water supply separation from IOWDS: >= 50 feet (Private supply must be at a higher elevation or properly protected.) · private water supply separation from disposal field: >= 100 feet

    “Approval of the design, construction or installation of an individual on-site wastewater disposal system by the department is required, except as otherwise provided in Section 41-67-6(7).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — A water meter or installation of an on-site wastewater disposal system in Walthall County.
      “The Permit is required for a water meter and the installation of an on-site wastewater disposal system.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Installation of an individual on-site wastewater disposal system in Mississippi.

    • For the ordinary Notice-of-Intent and Final-Approval process, the certified installer must contact MSDH 24 hours before construction to schedule an inspection.
    • A two-acre exemption applicant receives a site evaluation and disposal-system recommendation, but MSDH does not inspect during installation.
    • For the two-acre exemption, the Department reserves the right to inspect an installed system after it has been in use for more than 30 days.
    • Final approval requires the installer affidavit; advanced treatment systems also require the property owner's maintenance affidavit.

    advance notice before construction: >= 24 hours (Certified installer must contact the Department to schedule inspection.) · two-acre-exemption post-use inspection threshold: > 30 days (MSDH reserves the right to inspect systems on properties that filed a two-acre exemption.)

    “The Department reserves the right to inspect installed systems after they have been in use for more than thirty (30) days on properties that have filed a two-acre exemption.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Individual onsite wastewater disposal systems in Walthall County.
      “Do you wish for the Department to inspect the installation of your on-site wastewater disposal system.”
  • Off-grid sanitationProhibited

    Discharge of wastewater or gray water on the ground, into ditches, or into bodies of water.

    • Wastewater must be piped into a central sewer system or septic system for proper disposal.
    “All wastewater is required to pipe into a central sewer system or a septic system for proper disposal. No “gray water” can be discharged on the ground, ditches, or bodies of water.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Groundwater withdrawal permits for water wells in Mississippi.

    • A groundwater withdrawal permit is required for water wells with surface casing diameters of 6 inches or greater.
    • Some exclusions apply.
    • A separate contractor licensing requirement generally applies, but a landowner may drill without a Water Well Contractor license for a single-family permanent residence or farm livestock use if applicable construction standards are followed.
    • Wells with surface casing diameters below 6 inches may still be regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health when part of a public water system.

    surface casing diameter threshold: >= 6 inches (Some exclusions apply.)

    “State law requires that you obtain a groundwater withdrawal permit for water wells with surface casing diameters 6-inches or greater in diameter. Some exclusions apply to this requirement.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Public water connections and connection to centralized wastewater treatment systems for residences, buildings, and facilities in Mississippi.

    • A public water utility may not connect water service without prior written Department approval certifying that the sewage treatment and disposal plan complies with state law.
    • Water utility connections may be made during construction only if the Department approved the sewage plan and the owner agreed to inspection and approval before use or occupancy.
    • Where centralized wastewater treatment is constructed and becomes available, onsite systems must be abandoned and residences, buildings, or facilities connected to the centralized system.
    • Temporary onsite systems may be used only under the stated 36-month centralized-treatment conditions.

    centralized wastewater availability deadline: 36 months (The developer must sign a written agreement to connect when available and install internal sewage collection to the connection point.)

    “Where a Centralized Wastewater Treatment System is available, all places shall have a properly constructed connection to the centralized wastewater treatment system which all human excreta and other liquid waste shall be disposed”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Permanent water-utility connection for property using a sewer line or septic system.
      “State law requires you have permanent sewage disposal solution available to receive a permanent water meter. Permanent sewage disposal solutions can be a sewer line or septic system. You must have a sewer option before a water utility can make a connection to your property.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable

    Applicability of Mississippi Code Title 73, Chapter 59 residential-builder and remodeler licensing requirements.

    • The cited exemption applies to the Residential Builders and Remodelers chapter.
    • It covers agricultural buildings, buildings used for agricultural purposes, buildings constructed as a community effort, and tenant houses.
    • The source does not establish an exemption from independently applicable local permits, zoning, floodplain rules, or wastewater requirements.
    “This chapter shall not apply to: (a) Agricultural buildings, buildings used for agricultural purposes, buildings constructed as a community effort, or tenant houses;”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Mississippi State Department of Health review of subdivision land divisions for onsite-wastewater suitability; this does not establish that MSDH approves the general land-use plat or replaces county or municipal plat review.

    • A subdivision is defined for this review as land divided into ten (10) or more lots, tracts, sites, or parcels for residential development.
    • Local or county ordinances may reduce the ten-lot threshold.
    • If public water will be used, the Bureau of Public Water Supply may require subdivision review regardless of lot count.
    • Developments of 35 or more lots and additional phases by the same owner require a feasibility study; developments under 35 lots may be required to obtain one case-by-case.
    • No lots may be sold or construction started before evaluation.
    • The subdivision plan-review fee is $325 plus $6.50 per lot; online payment is subject to a processing fee and fees may change.
    • The plan review is voided if the developer alters the plat without notifying MSDH; MSDH determines whether a new review is required.
    • MSDH reviews lots for general suitability of onsite wastewater treatment and disposal for one residence per lot; septic, soil, wetland, water-supply, and other health requirements remain applicable.

    residential subdivision threshold: >= 10 lots (Local ordinances may reduce the minimum below ten lots.) · feasibility-study threshold: >= 35 lots (Additional phases by the same owner also require a feasibility study; smaller developments may be required case-by-case.) · subdivision plan-review fee: 325 USD (Plus $6.50 per lot; online payment processing fee and possible additional costs may apply.)

    “All lots are reviewed for general suitability of on-site wastewater treatment and disposal for a single residence per lot.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Subdivision projects in Walthall County involving on-site wastewater or related commercial-development review.
      “Commercial Developments (Subdivisions, Manufactured, Multi-family, RV Campgrounds/Lodging Parks)”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Driveways and specified changes of use connecting to Mississippi state highways.

    • A permit is required for new driveways.
    • A permit is required for alterations to existing drives.
    • A permit is required for a change of use causing a daily-trip increase of 10% or 100 daily trips, whichever is greater.
    • A permit is required for property-use changes from non-commercial to commercial.
    • If access is expected to exceed 100 peak-hour trips, a traffic-impact study must be submitted.
    • If the permitted land use changes, the original permit is revoked and a new permit must be applied for.
    • A denied permit may be appealed within 10 days after receipt of the denial notification.

    daily trip increase threshold: 10 percent (or 100 daily trips, whichever is greater) · traffic impact study threshold: > 100 peak-hour trips · appeal deadline: 10 days (after receipt of denial notification)

    “For State Highways a permit is required for: 1. New driveways; 2. Alterations to existing drives;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development or improvement activity on state-owned Mississippi property or buildings located in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area zones A, AE, V, or VE.

    • The requirement applies to state-owned property or buildings.
    • For existing structures determined to involve less than a Substantial Improvement, no additional forms or approval are required after Step One.
    • For new development or a Substantial Improvement, the applicant must complete the Step Two form, obtain a Control Code, provide all required attachments, and submit final elevation certification and complete drawings and specifications.
    • Approval produces an initial approval letter and, after final requirements are approved, a final approval letter.
    • If Step Two is not approved and the project cannot be brought into compliance, a denial letter is issued.

    covered FEMA zones: A, AE, V, VE · substantial improvement threshold: less than a Substantial Improvement (no additional forms or approval required for the development project)

    “A development or improvement activity to state-owned property or building, [...] must complete a Floodplain Management Permit Application.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Mississippi State Department of Health wastewater applications relevant to Walthall County.

    • Online payment is subject to a processing fee.
    • All fees are subject to change.
    • Additional costs may be included if the online application is not used.

    Notice of Intent plus Final Approval: 197.5 USD · Notice of Intent plus Exemption: 100 USD · Existing Residential Inspection: 100 USD · Commercial Establishment plus Final Approval: 412.5 USD · Existing Commercial Establishment: 315 USD · Commercial Development: 412.5 USD (plus $2.60 per unit) · Subdivision: 325 USD (plus $6.50 per lot)

    “Notice of Intent + Final Approval is currently $197.50 Notice of Intent + Exemption is currently $100 Existing Residential Inspection is currently $100 Private Water Well Sample is currently $10 Non-residential Water Meter is currently $0 Commercial Establishment + Final Approval is currently $412.50 Existing Commercial Establishment is currently $315 Commercial Development is currently $412.50 + $2.60/unit. A unit can be an apartment, house, trailer, RV or any other independent quarters for a single family. Subdivision is currently $325 + $6.50/lot Online payment will be subject to a processing fee. All fees are subject to change. Additional costs may be included if online application is not used. See other FAQ questions for details about application types.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit processPartial

    Mississippi local permitting for businesses and business-related construction or land development.

    • Permits may be required from city or county governments.
    • Different locations have different requirements.
    • Building permits generally come from the city or county building and planning department for constructing or modifying a place of business.
    • Zoning permits generally come from the city or county building and planning department for developing land for specific commercial use.
    “You may be required to apply for permits and licenses from your local government (e.g., city or county). Different locations have different requirements.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Recreational-vehicle occupancy at campgrounds under the jurisdiction of the Pearl River Valley Water Supply District, including Coal Bluff, Goshen Springs, Leake County Water Park, Low Head Dam, and Timberlake.

    • The rules apply within all campgrounds under the District’s jurisdiction.
    • Campgrounds are not intended to be permanent domiciles for campground guests.
    • A recreational vehicle must be in operable road-worthy condition, properly registered and insured in its domicile state or province, with a current license plate affixed.
    • Campers may not stay on any pad longer than 12 consecutive months; Standard Plus campers may move to another available pad after 12 months, but the District is not responsible for making a pad available.
    • Campsites are typically designed for trailers or recreational vehicles no longer than 32 feet or wider than 8 feet, subject to the stated RVIA-seal, holding-tank, facility-capacity, and prohibited-unit conditions.
    • Primitive camping areas without water, electricity, or sewer are not intended for recreational vehicles.
    • No permanent structures may be erected on a campsite; temporary accessibility stairs, stoops, steps, or ramps require the stated approvals and size limits.
    • Camping is confined to designated campground or overflow areas, and no more than one camping unit is allowed per pad without Campground Manager approval.

    maximum stay on one pad: <= 12 consecutive months (Campers may move to a different available pad after 12 months.) · typical campsite RV length: <= 32 feet (Larger units may be accepted if they satisfy the stated RVIA seal, holding-tank, and facility-capacity conditions.) · typical campsite RV width: <= 8 feet (Larger units may be accepted if they satisfy the stated RVIA seal, holding-tank, and facility-capacity conditions.)

    “Campers shall not stay on any pad longer than 12 consecutive months”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Mississippi county boards of supervisors' authority and obligation to adopt uniform building codes, including in unincorporated county territory, subject to the statutory opt-out framework.

    • All counties and municipalities must enact uniform building codes unless they opted out before November 30, 2014.
    • A county board of supervisors adopting building codes after July 1, 2008 must adopt as minimum codes codes established and promulgated by the Mississippi Building Codes Council.
    • The statewide source does not identify current county-by-county residential permit enforcement or opt-out status.

    opt-out deadline: 2014-11-30 · minimum-code requirement for codes adopted after: >= 2008-07-01

    “Under Senate Bill 2378 of 2014, all counties and municipalities must enact uniform building codes unless they opt out prior to Nov. 30, 2014.”

Inside cities and towns in Walthall County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Planning and zoning within the incorporated Town of Tylertown, Walthall County, Mississippi.

    • The source identifies planning and zoning as a service provided by the Town; it does not provide the ordinance text, zoning districts, dimensional standards, or approval procedures.
    “Services provided by the Town include: Public Safety – Police and fire, Highways and Street, Water and Sewer, Health and Social Services, Culture and Recreation, Public Improvements, Planning and Zoning, and General Administration Services.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Walthall County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Walthall County
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in unincorporated Walthall County
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage requirements in Walthall County.
  • Building height — Building-height requirements in Walthall County.
3 more unanswered
  • Camping on your land
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Walthall County, Mississippi

Is Walthall County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Walthall County scores 75/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

How much does land cost in Walthall County, Mississippi?

Land in Walthall County runs about $3,741 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Walthall County?

Walthall County gets about 63.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4.6% of years.

How remote is Walthall County?

A representative private-land location has about 26,331 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,527,406 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Walthall compares in Mississippi

Compare side-by-side →See all 82 Mississippi counties ranked →