Bolthole Index

Merrimack County, New Hampshire

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Merrimack County, New Hampshire

68Index Score / 100
#8 of 10 in New Hampshire

Merrimack County, New Hampshire has no countywide building department or zoning code: the city or town where a parcel sits issues building permits and sets zoning, and covered construction needs a permit through that local process1,2. Septic permits do not move to the town: the state Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) approves septic plans for every address in the county3. All construction must still meet the statewide building code4.

Do you need a building permit in Merrimack County, New Hampshire?

New Hampshire's building code applies throughout Merrimack County, and covered construction, remodeling or related work requires a building permit.

New Hampshire's building code applies throughout Merrimack County, and covered construction, remodeling or related work requires a building permit1,4. Where a municipality has adopted an enforcement mechanism, the permit follows that municipality's process1. The building official generally must decide a completed application within 30 days; the period is 60 days for nonresidential applications or residential applications covering more than 10 dwelling units1. Work performed under an issued permit requires inspections at the appropriate stages and before it is concealed9. A municipality may also require a certificate of occupancy, so confirm that requirement with the town before planning a move-in date4.

Who issues building permits in Merrimack County, and how do you reach them?

Building permits in Merrimack County are issued by each city or town, not by the county, so begin with the city or town where the parcel lies.

Building permits in Merrimack County are issued by each city or town, not by the county, so begin with the city or town where the parcel lies1,2. Inside Concord, the Code Administration Division at 37 Green Street handles building, housing and health or licensing permits and can be reached at 603-225-858010. Concord's zoning administration is in the Planning Division at 41 Green Street, reachable at 603-225-851510,11. The state fire marshal's direct permitting, inspections and certificates of occupancy cover buildings owned by New Hampshire, the community college system or the university system12. Merrimack County's Administration Office at 333 Daniel Webster Highway in Boscawen, (603) 796-6800, is a general county contact if you are unsure which municipality or agency serves the parcel13.

Does Merrimack County have zoning?

Zoning approval in Merrimack County comes from each city or town, and rules vary by municipality and district; local rules may govern building size and height, lot size, yards, open space, density and land use.

Zoning approval in Merrimack County comes from each city or town, and rules vary by municipality and district; local rules may govern building size and height, lot size, yards, open space, density and land use2. Concord's Planning Division reviews applications against its zoning, site-plan and subdivision regulations11. New Hampshire municipalities must allow one attached or detached accessory dwelling unit as a matter of right in districts permitting single-family homes, while retaining authority over owner occupancy, parking, aesthetics, septic and other statutory conditions6. A municipality may not restrict an accessory dwelling unit below 750 square feet and may cap it at 950 square feet unless it authorizes more6. We could not confirm one countywide schedule for setbacks, minimum lot size, lot coverage or building height, so obtain the parcel's zoning district and dimensional table from its municipality before designing a home.

How do septic permits work in Merrimack County?

Septic permits in Merrimack County, including inside Concord and every other town, are approved by NHDES rather than the county or the municipal building office, although local requirements may apply before an application reaches the department.

Septic permits in Merrimack County, including inside Concord and every other town, are approved by NHDES rather than the county or the municipal building office, although local requirements may apply before an application reaches the department3. Prior approval of the plans and specifications is required before constructing a sewage-discharging building or a sewage or waste-disposal system3. NHDES issues construction approval after the state and, when required, the municipality approve the proposed plans14. Approval to operate follows final inspection, and the system cannot be covered or used beforehand15. The NHDES application fee is $45014. Only about 3% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make a site evaluation an early contingency rather than assuming a standard field will fit16. Municipal subdivision review may also apply where the town has authorized its planning board to regulate subdivisions17.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Merrimack County?

We could not confirm a countywide rule for living in an RV.

We could not confirm a countywide rule for living in an RV. State law exempts only occasional RV use of a parcel for no more than 7 days in a calendar year, with a statement of compliance filed with the municipality and local zoning and health rules still enforceable18. For anything longer, ask the parcel's municipality about occupancy, camping and zoning before relying on an RV as temporary or permanent housing. A municipality may permit a qualifying tiny house on an individual lot where single-family homes are allowed or as an accessory dwelling unit, but all local land-use, drinking-water and wastewater requirements still apply19. For this rule, a qualifying tiny house has no more than 600 square feet excluding lofts, complies with the state building code's tiny-home provisions and sits on a stable ground surface or foundation19. Local zoning still controls the parcel's district and dimensional standards2. One attached or detached accessory dwelling unit must be allowed where single-family homes are permitted, subject to the statutory local and septic conditions6.

How do you build a home in Merrimack County, step by step?

Identify the parcel's municipality and obtain its zoning district, allowed-use rules and dimensional table.

  1. Identify the parcel's municipality and obtain its zoning district, allowed-use rules and dimensional table2.
  2. Ask the local building official for the building permit application and local fee schedule; covered construction requires a permit through the applicable process1.
  3. Arrange the septic site work and obtain the NHDES septic approval of the plans before constructing a sewage-discharging building or system3.
  4. Submit a complete building application; the general decision period is 30 days, or 60 days for nonresidential applications and residential applications covering more than 10 dwelling units1.
  5. Request building inspections at the required stages and before concealing work9.
  6. Obtain final septic inspection and approval before covering or operating the system15.
  7. Ask whether the municipality requires a certificate of occupancy before moving in4.

What should you check before buying land in Merrimack County, New Hampshire?

Soils and septic: only about 3% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make buildability and septic approval purchase contingencies.

Soils and septic: only about 3% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make buildability and septic approval purchase contingencies3,16. Zoning: allowed uses, setbacks, lot sizes and other dimensional standards depend on the municipality and district2. Floodplain: municipalities may adopt separate or zoning-based floodplain ordinances, but we could not confirm every current local ordinance; ask the municipality and check the parcel's mapped flood status20. Terrain: roughly 76% of Merrimack County land has a slope of 15% or less, while about 86% is wooded16. Location: population density is about 168 people per square mile, and the nearest city of 100,000 or more is about 25 miles from the county center in a straight line16. Taxes: the effective property tax rate is about 2%, and the median annual property tax bill is about $6,61716.

Watch-outs

  • Concord moved all zoning administration, including Zoning Board of Adjustment applications, from the Code Administration Division to the Planning Division effective September 30, 2024; use the Planning Division for any zoning question in the county seat10,11.
  • NHDES raised its statewide septic (sewage disposal) permit application fee from $300 to $450 effective July 1, 2025; budget for the current amount, not an older figure you may see elsewhere14.
  • Building permits for covered construction follow the applicable local process, and municipal administration varies; contact the parcel's town before starting work1,2.
  • Merrimack County's owner-builder exemption status is unconfirmed; do not assume one exists without checking with your town's building office7.
  • A tiny house is not automatically exempt from land-use rules: the municipality may allow a qualifying tiny house only where the state conditions and all applicable local requirements are met19.

Sources

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

  1. RSA 155-A:4 Permit Required
  2. RSA 674:16 Grant of Power
  3. RSA 485-A:32 Prior Approval; Permits
  4. Chapter 155-A New Hampshire Building Code
  5. Chapter 216-I Recreational Campgrounds and Camping Parks (New Hampshire statewide rule)
  6. RSA 674:72 Accessory Dwelling Units
  7. RSA 155-A:4 — Permit Required (2026 county census)
  8. RSA 482-B:10 Record of Wells; Monitoring Wells (New Hampshire statewide rule)
  9. gc.nh.gov
  10. City of Concord Code Administration Division (concordnh.gov)
  11. City of Concord Planning Division (concordnh.gov)
  12. Section 155-A:2 State Building Code
  13. Merrimack County Administration Office (merrimackcounty.net)
  14. New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Subsurface Systems Bureau (des.nh.gov)
  15. Env-Wq 1000 Subsurface Disposal Systems
  16. 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
  17. Chapter 674 Local Land Use Planning and Regulatory Powers
  18. RSA 216-I:13 Partial Exception for Certain Uses of Recreational Vehicles
  19. RSA 674:82 Definitions
  20. RSA 674:56 Flood Hazards

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.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 4 of its 6 neighbors, Merrimack County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleMerrimack CountyBelknap CountyHillsborough CountySullivan CountyStrafford CountyRockingham CountyCheshire County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedLimitedRequiredRequired
County zoningYesNoYesNoYesYesNo
Septic permitsNHDESNHDESNH Dept. of Env. ServicesNHDESNH Dept. of Env. ServicesNHDESNHDES

County locator

Merrimack County in New Hampshire

68
County map
Merrimack County highlighted among the New Hampshire counties · colored by Index score

How Merrimack County scores

68 / 100 · #8 of 10 in New Hampshire · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion42100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency70100% ev.
Admin Boringness4090% ev.
Durability77100% ev.
Property Autonomy78100% ev.
Carry Cost56100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$499kTypical home
2%Property tax
$7,512Land / acre
47.2"Annual rain
5.2% of yrsSevere drought
0.8 / yr (+0.8)Mid-century 100°F days
11.4 daysMid-century dry spell
2.04" (+8.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.41×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,376Home insurance / yr
0.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.84%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
30,370People within 30 min
5,574,427People within 2 hr
119,917Radius comparison (15 mi)
168.4People / sq mi
1.6%Federal land
75.6%Land at 15% slope or less
3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
16,861 acWorkable land screen
86.4%Wooded land
73.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
45.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Merrimack County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Not yet covered: Town of Dunbarton · Franklin · Town of Henniker · Town of Northfield · Town of Sutton

Answers from the rulebook for Merrimack County

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

Merrimack County rules

  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of municipal zoning within Merrimack County, including Concord; the county-level value describes variation among local governments and does not claim that Merrimack County administers each municipal ordinance.

    • New Hampshire RSA 674:16 authorizes local legislative bodies of cities and towns, and qualifying counties, to adopt zoning ordinances regulating building size, lot size, yards, density, and land uses. Concord's official website provides a zoning ordinance and zoning map materials. Municipal zoning controls must be checked municipality by municipality.
    “any city, town, or county in which there are located unincorporated towns or unorganized places is authorized to adopt or amend a zoning ordinance”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Zoning in New Hampshire is administered by municipalities, not the county; the county seat of Concord has a full zoning ordinance (Title IV, Article 28) with zoning districts and allowable uses.

    City of Concord Zoning Code (Title IV) ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

New Hampshire rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction governed by the New Hampshire state building code in Merrimack County; permits are issued and enforced through authorized local enforcement agencies or other authorities specified by statute.

    • The local legislative body may establish a local enforcement agency to enforce the state building code.
    • The building official must have authority to issue building permits, perform inspections, and issue certificates of occupancy.
    • Permit issuance and fee collection are reserved to counties, towns, cities, and village districts where authorized under RSA 155-A:3.
    • For municipalities without an enforcement mechanism, contractor notification to the state fire marshal before construction is required except for one- and two-family dwellings.
    • State-owned, community-college, and university buildings are handled by the state fire marshal.
    “the person responsible for such construction shall obtain a permit.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, remodeling, or other work described in RSA 155-A:2, I, in Merrimack County.
      “the person responsible for such construction shall obtain a permit.”
    • Required — Construction and renovation subject to New Hampshire's state building code, administered through the state building permit system where the municipality has not adopted a local enforcement mechanism, and buildings owned by the State, the community college system, or the university system.
      “Before starting work as described in RSA 155-A:2, I, the person responsible for such construction shall obtain a permit.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    State building-permit and inspection requirements for owner-builders performing construction or renovation work in New Hampshire.

    • Before starting work described in RSA 155-A:2(I), the person responsible for the construction must obtain a permit.
    • In municipalities that have adopted a building-code enforcement mechanism, the permit conforms to the locally adopted process and must result in compliance with the state building code.
    • The building official has authority to perform inspections as may be necessary to assure compliance with the state building code.
    • The state building-permit system does not apply to construction and renovation of one- and two-family dwellings in municipalities that have not elected to enact a local ordinance or otherwise adopted procedures for enforcing the state building code; local permitting requirements may nevertheless apply where the municipality has adopted such an ordinance or procedure.
    • Separate permits are required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire-protection work in addition to a building permit when applicable under Saf-C 8100.
    • The sources do not create a statewide owner-builder exemption from permits or inspections.
    “Before starting work as described in RSA 155-A:2, I, the person responsible for such construction shall obtain a permit. In municipalities that have adopted an enforcement mechanism pursuant to RSA 155-A:3, the permit under this section shall conform to the locally adopted process. No permit shall be issued that would not result in compliance with the state building code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — A property owner or the owner's agent performing plumbing in the owner's own single-family detached or townhouse residence, including new construction, and performing minor plumbing installations, repairs, or replacements on the owner's property; the statute also separately addresses fuel-gas fitting in an existing primary residence.
      “To a property owner or the property owner's agent who installs, repairs, or replaces plumbing in the property owner's own single-family detached or townhouse residence, including new construction, or any property owner or property owner's agent who makes minor installations, repairs, or replacements to the owner's property.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    All buildings, building components, and structures constructed in New Hampshire, including construction, design, maintenance, use, alteration, renovation, rehabilitation, repair, removal, and demolition.

    • Compliance with both the state building code and state fire code is required.
    • The adopted code consists of the 2024 International Building Code, International Existing Building Code, International Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, and International Residential Code; the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code; and the 2023 National Electrical Code.
    • The adoption includes amendments reviewed and approved by the state building code review board as of October 10, 2025, ratified by the legislature under RSA 155-A:10, and approved errata or errata-informed amendments.
    • The code in effect when the governing authority receives the required building-permit application remains in effect for the duration of the permitted work.
    • For 6 months after the effective date of a newly adopted code, applicants may elect to comply with either the code in effect immediately before the effective date or the newly adopted code, but may not combine the two codes.
    • The state building code is effective in all municipalities without further local modification, except as permitted by RSA 155-A:3 or another statute.
    • Local enforcement agencies may administer permits, inspections, and enforcement where authorized; local amendments may not be less stringent than the state building code and technical amendments are not permitted.
    • Buildings must also comply with applicable state or local building requirements and land-use restrictions, including subdivision regulations, use and location restrictions, density and dimensional limitations, and historic-district laws or ordinances.
    • Before starting work described in RSA 155-A:2, I, the responsible person must obtain a permit; in municipalities with an enforcement mechanism, the permit must conform to the locally adopted process.
    • For state-owned, community-college-system, or university-system buildings, permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy are issued by the state fire marshal.
    • Where the state building code and state fire code conflict, the code creating the greater degree of life safety takes precedence, subject to RSA 155-A:10 review.

    effective date of current statutory amendment: 2026-07-01 00:01 · concurrency period after newly adopted code effective date: 6 months (Applicant may choose either the immediately preceding code or the newly adopted code, but not a combination.)

    “All buildings, building components, and structures constructed in New Hampshire shall comply with the state building code and state fire code.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted — Buildings and structures in New Hampshire, including Merrimack County.
      “The state building code established in RSA 155-A shall be effective in all municipalities, as defined in RSA 155-A:1, XI, in the state, without further local modification, except as permitted by this section, and shall be enforced as provided in RSA 155-A:7.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Buildings, building components, and structures constructed in New Hampshire, including Merrimack County.
      “All buildings, building components, and structures constructed in New Hampshire shall comply with the state building code and state fire code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Buildings, building components, and structures constructed in New Hampshire, including Merrimack County.
      “structures constructed in New Hampshire shall comply with the state building code”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Work performed under the scope of building permits issued through the New Hampshire state building permit system.

    • Inspections must be requested by the permit holder.
    • Inspections occur at appropriate times during construction and before work is concealed.
    • If work is noncompliant, correction and re-inspection are required; the permit holder is subject to a re-inspection fee.
    “Required inspections for work performed under the scope of the issued building permits shall be requested by the permit holder and performed by the fire marshal or designee at the appropriate times during the course of construction and prior to concealing any of the work.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Buildings owned by New Hampshire, the community college system, or the university system.
      “The state fire marshal shall issue permits, conduct inspections, and issue certificates of occupancy for buildings owned by the state, the community college system of New Hampshire, and the university system.”
    • Required — Work performed under issued building permits in Merrimack County.
      “Required inspections for work performed under the scope of the issued building permits shall be requested by the permit holder”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Buildings and projects administered under the state building permit system, and municipalities that enact a certificate-of-occupancy requirement under the state building code.

    • Under the state permit system, a certificate of occupancy is issued upon completion of work, compliance inspections under state and local codes, and receipt of required documentation.
    • Municipal regulations may require a certificate of occupancy before use or occupancy of a building or structure erected, remodeled, or undergoing a change or expansion of use.
    • The municipality is responsible for implementing and enforcing a locally enacted certificate-of-occupancy requirement.
    • New Hampshire energy-code compliance certification is required before occupancy when the energy code applies; municipalities without certificates of occupancy use the alternate certification process in Puc 1805.01(c).
    “Upon completion of the work, inspections for compliance with state and local codes by the fire marshal or designee and receipt of required documentation, a certificate of occupancy shall be issued.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Buildings in municipalities that have enacted a certificate-of-occupancy requirement, and state-system buildings handled by the state fire marshal.
      “may include a requirement for a certificate of occupancy”
    • Limited — Projects administered under the state fire marshal inspection system.
      “Upon completion of the work, inspections for compliance with state and local codes by the fire marshal or designee and receipt of required documentation, a certificate of occupancy shall be issued.”
    • Limited — Buildings subject to the state building-permit and inspection system in Merrimack County.
      “The regulations adopted pursuant to paragraph I may include a requirement for a certificate of occupancy”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    New Hampshire's statutory zoning-district framework, under which a local legislative body may divide a municipality into zoning districts and regulate buildings, structures, and land within those districts.

    • The statute supplies enabling authority and does not publish the actual district maps or district schedules for each municipality.
    • District boundaries, number, shape, area, and regulations are determined locally by the municipality's local legislative body.
    • Regulations must be uniform for each class or kind of building throughout each district, but regulations may differ between districts.
    • Local zoning remains a municipal-government responsibility.
    “The local legislative body may divide the municipality into districts of a number, shape and area as may be deemed best suited”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific

    New Hampshire municipalities and qualifying counties may adopt local zoning regulations governing lot sizes; the statute does not set a single statewide minimum lot size.

    • The actual minimum depends on the locally adopted zoning ordinance and district.
    • The cited statute authorizes local regulation and is not itself a numeric minimum-lot-size rule.
    “For the purpose of promoting the health, safety, or the general welfare of the community, the local legislative body of any city, town, or county in which there are located unincorporated towns or unorganized places is authorized to adopt or amend a zoning ordinance under the ordinance enactment procedures of RSA 675:2-5. The zoning ordinance shall be designed to regulate and restrict: [...] Lot sizes, the percentage of a lot that may be occupied, and the size of yards, courts and other open spaces;”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific

    New Hampshire municipalities and qualifying counties may adopt local zoning regulations governing yards and other open spaces that may include setback controls; the exact setback depends on the local ordinance and district.

    • The actual setback distance depends on the locally adopted zoning ordinance and district.
    • The cited statute authorizes local dimensional regulation and is not itself a numeric setback rule.
    “The zoning ordinance shall be designed to regulate and restrict: [...] Lot sizes, the percentage of a lot that may be occupied, and the size of yards, courts and other open spaces;”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific

    New Hampshire municipalities and qualifying counties may adopt local zoning regulations limiting the percentage of a lot that may be occupied; the exact percentage depends on the local ordinance and district.

    • The actual lot-coverage limit depends on the locally adopted zoning ordinance and district.
    • The cited statute is an enabling provision and does not establish a statewide percentage.
    “The zoning ordinance shall be designed to regulate and restrict: [...] Lot sizes, the percentage of a lot that may be occupied, and the size of yards, courts and other open spaces;”
  • Building heightDistrict specific

    New Hampshire municipalities and qualifying counties may adopt local zoning regulations governing building height and number of stories; the exact height depends on the local ordinance and district.

    • The actual building-height limit depends on the locally adopted zoning ordinance and district.
    • The cited statute authorizes local regulation and does not establish a statewide height limit.
    “The zoning ordinance shall be designed to regulate and restrict: (a) The height, number of stories and size of buildings and other structures;”
  • Living in an RVAllowed (with conditions)

    Occasional commercial or noncommercial recreational-vehicle use on land parcels for no more than 7 days in a calendar year.

    • The landowner or responsible party must file a statement of compliance with the municipality's governing body within 7 days before each use.
    • The statement must state the method of compliance with RSA 216-I:4, II.
    • The exception does not limit municipal authority to enforce local zoning and health-and-safety regulations.
    • The exception is subject to RSA 216-I:4, II.

    maximum use period: <= 7 days per calendar year (Occasional commercial or noncommercial use.)

    “this chapter shall not apply to the occasional commercial or noncommercial use of recreational vehicles on parcels of lands”
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Innovative housing structures, including qualifying tiny houses, placed or erected in New Hampshire, including in Merrimack County.

    • The municipality may permit the structure only on an individual house lot where single-family dwellings are allowed or as an accessory dwelling unit under RSA 674:72.
    • All applicable local land-use requirements apply.
    • The structure is treated as a single-family dwelling or accessory dwelling unit for zoning purposes.
    • State drinking-water and wastewater-treatment and disposal laws and regulations apply.
    • A qualifying tiny house must be 600 square feet or less excluding lofts, comply with the tiny-home provisions of the state building code, and be constructed on a stable ground surface or foundation.
    • RSA 674:83 is effective September 13, 2026.

    maximum floor area: <= 600 square feet excluding lofts

    “I. A municipality may permit an innovative housing structure to be placed or erected on an individual house lot where single-family dwellings are allowed, or to be used as an accessory dwelling unit pursuant to RSA 674:72, subject to all applicable land use requirements.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Qualifying innovative housing structures in New Hampshire municipalities, including municipalities within Merrimack County.
      “A municipality may permit an innovative housing structure to be placed or erected on an individual house lot where single-family dwellings are allowed”
    • Limited — Tiny houses and tiny houses on wheels qualifying as innovative housing structures under RSA 674:82-:83.
      “A municipality may permit an innovative housing structure to be placed or erected on an individual house lot where single-family dwellings are allowed”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured housing sited in New Hampshire municipalities that adopt land-use-control measures.

    • A municipality may not completely exclude manufactured housing by regulation, zoning ordinance, or other police power.
    • A municipality with land-use controls must allow manufactured housing on individual residential lots in most, though not necessarily all, residential areas and lots; or in manufactured-housing parks and qualifying subdivisions in most, though not necessarily all, such areas and lots; or in all three location types.
    • Manufactured housing on qualifying individual lots must meet the lot-size, frontage, space, and other reasonable controls applicable to conventional single-family housing in the same district.
    • A special exception or special permit may be required only where the municipality requires it for comparable single-family housing on individual lots or in subdivisions.
    • Municipalities permitting manufactured-housing parks must provide reasonable and realistic development opportunities and reasonable and realistic lot-size and overall-density requirements.
    “a municipality shall not exclude manufactured housing completely from the municipality by regulation, zoning ordinance or by any other police power.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units in municipalities within Merrimack County that permit single-family dwellings.

    • One attached or detached ADU must be allowed as a matter of right in districts permitting single-family dwellings.
    • Municipalities may regulate owner occupancy, parking, aesthetics, septic, and other statutory conditions.
    • Total ADU living space may not be restricted below 750 square feet and may not exceed 950 square feet unless otherwise authorized by the municipality.

    maximum living space: <= 950 square feet (unless otherwise authorized by the municipality) · minimum permitted living space: >= 750 square feet (municipality may not restrict total living space below this amount)

    “A municipality that adopts a zoning ordinance pursuant to the authority granted in this chapter shall allow accessory dwelling units in all zoning districts that permit single-family dwellings. One accessory dwelling unit, which may be either attached or detached, shall be allowed as a matter of right.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units in New Hampshire municipalities within Merrimack County.
      “A municipality that adopts a zoning ordinance pursuant to the authority granted in this chapter shall allow accessory dwelling units in all zoning districts that permit single-family dwellings.”
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Subsurface sewage or waste disposal systems and buildings in Merrimack County from which sewage or other wastes will discharge.

    • Prior approval of plans and specifications by the state department is required before construction.
    • Local authorities retain powers under other statutes.
    • Local-government water-supply and sewage-disposal requirements must be satisfied where local regulations require prior local approval.
    • Replacement of a failed subsurface sewage disposal system is exempt from the local-compliance certification required by paragraph II.
    • Chapter requirements are minimum requirements.
    “without prior approval of the plans and specifications of the sewage or waste disposal system by the department.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Subsurface sewage disposal systems serving property in Merrimack County.
      “without prior approval of the plans and specifications of the sewage or waste disposal system by the department”
    • Mixed — Statewide administration of sewage and waste disposal system approvals in New Hampshire.
      “In all cases involving inspection of sewage or waste disposal systems in cities or towns which employ a full time health officer and/or building inspector, the department may delegate to such officer or inspector the responsibility for inspecting the proposed system as required under paragraph I of this section.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Septic systems for any structure discharging wastewater on site with a water supply connected, statewide New Hampshire

    • Plans must be designed, prepared and submitted by a permitted NH septic system designer
    • Approval for construction needed before converting seasonal to full-time occupancy, increasing load on an existing system, or commencing additions/replacement/expansion/relocation of a structure, subject to RSA 485-a:38, II-a
    • Local municipal approval also required where applicable
    • NHDES inspector inspects before operational approval
    • Systems near water may need additional shoreland permit
    • New rules and forms effective February 1, 2026; outdated forms returned without review
    “a septic system is required for any structure from which wastewater will be discharged on site and to which a water supply is or will be connected.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction of a building discharging sewage or construction of a sewage or waste-disposal system in Merrimack County.
      “No person shall construct any building from which sewage or other wastes will discharge or construct a sewage or waste disposal system without prior approval”
    • Required — Construction of a building from which sewage or other wastes will discharge, or construction of a sewage or waste disposal system, statewide in New Hampshire.
      “No person shall construct any building from which sewage or other wastes will discharge or construct a sewage or waste disposal system without prior approval of the plans and specifications of the sewage or waste disposal system by the department.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Construction, operation, and maintenance of subsurface sewage disposal systems statewide in New Hampshire.

    • Final inspection and approval are required before a system is covered or placed in operation.
    • DES may delegate proposed-system inspections to qualified municipal officials.
    • Septic tanks must be inspected for sludge and surface-scum accumulation at a frequency sufficient to permit pumping when the combined thickness reaches one-third or more of tank depth.
    • The quoted operating rule is Env-Wq 1023.01.

    combined sludge and surface scum threshold: >= 1 third of tank depth

    “Septic tanks shall be inspected for accumulation of sludge and surface scum at a frequency sufficient to allow the tank to be pumped by a licensed septage hauler when the combined thickness of the sludge and surface scum equal 1/3 or more of the tank depth.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — ISDS systems seeking approval to operate.
      “final inspection and approval by the department”
    • Limited — Repair or replacement in-kind qualifying for the statutory permit-by-rule process.
      “The repaired or replacement system shall not be covered or placed in operation without final inspection and approval by an authorized agent of the department. All inspection by the department shall be accomplished within 7 business days after receipt of written notice from the installer that the system is ready for inspection.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Composting or incinerator toilets in New Hampshire structures.

    • Department approval is not required where the structure has neither internal plumbing nor supplied water service.
    • If the structure has internal plumbing and water service from a drilled well, internal or external storage tank, or municipal water system, an ISDS with DES operational approval is required even if the toilet is not connected to it.
    • Toilet waste disposal must comply with applicable state rules and local law.
    “Composting toilets and incinerator toilets in structures that do not have internal plumbing and that do not have a supplied water service to the building shall not require approval by the department.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Private and other water wells constructed in New Hampshire, including special requirements for open-loop geothermal wells.

    • Within 90 days after completion, the water well contractor must provide the New Hampshire Water Well Board a well completion record containing the specified location, construction, yield, use, and contractor information.
    • Open-loop geothermal wells require a groundwater discharge permit under Env-Wq 402.33 through Env-Wq 402.36.
    • The reviewed sources establish reporting and special-purpose permit requirements; they do not establish a universal construction permit requirement for every ordinary private well.

    well completion record deadline: 90 days after completion

    “An owner of an open loop geothermal well shall obtain a groundwater discharge permit in accordance with Env-Wq 402.33 through Env-Wq 402.36.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Buildings occupied or used for dwelling, office, store, theater, public hall, sleeping apartment, or tourist cabin in New Hampshire.

    • Connection to a public sewer is required if one is within 100 feet.
    • If no public sewer is within 100 feet, wastewater must be conveyed underground or in another non-offensive manner.
    • Cities, towns, and village districts may increase the 100-foot distance by ordinance or regulation.
    • Local municipal health officials may approve privies and may require further DES approval.
    • Municipalities may grant waivers for adequate alternative sewage systems complying with state and local rules and approved for construction by DES after January 1, 1985.

    public sewer connection distance: <= 100 feet (Municipalities may increase the distance by ordinance or regulation.)

    “unless said building shall be provided with suitable drains or sewers for conveying waste water and sewage away from the premises into some public sewer, if there be one within 100 feet thereof, and if not, for conveying it away underground or in some other manner that will not be offensive.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    New, re-established, or expanded agricultural operations and activities subject to local building and site requirements in New Hampshire.

    • Agricultural operations are not categorically exempt from dimensional standards, setbacks, driveway and traffic regulations, parking, noise, odor, vibration, or sign regulations.
    • A waiver may be required where literal application would effectively prohibit an agricultural use allowed by the statute or would otherwise be unreasonable in the agricultural context.
    • The waiver requires due notice and hearing by the board of adjustment, building code board of appeals, or other applicable local board.
    • The waiver must be limited to the extent necessary to reasonably permit the agricultural use or activity.
    • No waiver is required if it would have a demonstrated adverse effect on public health or safety or on the value of adjacent property.
    • The waiver continues only while the property is utilized for the permitted agricultural use or activity.
    • RSA 147 health-and-safety findings and the duties of the Department of Environmental Services under RSA 485 or RSA 485-A, and the Commissioner of Agriculture, Markets, and Food under Title XL, are preserved.
    • The statute does not affect regulation of sludge or septage.

    approval mechanism: waiver after due notice and hearing (only to the extent necessary to reasonably permit the agricultural use or activity) · adverse-effect limitation: demonstrated adverse effect on public health or safety, or on the value of adjacent property (waiver unavailable where this limitation applies)

    “the board of adjustment, building code board of appeals, or other applicable local board, after due notice and hearing, shall grant a waiver”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural operations or activities in a New Hampshire zoning district or location where they are not explicitly addressed.
      “In accordance with RSA 672:1, III-d, whenever agricultural operations or activities as defined in RSA 21:34-a are not explicitly addressed with respect to any zoning district or location, such operations or activities shall be deemed to be permitted there, as either a primary or accessory use, so long as conducted in accordance with best management practices guidelines adopted by the commissioner of the department of agriculture, markets, and food and with applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and rules.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural operations or activities under RSA 21:34-a that are not explicitly addressed in a local zoning district or location.
      “In accordance with RSA 672:1, III-d, whenever agricultural operations or activities as defined in RSA 21:34-a are not explicitly addressed with respect to any zoning district or location, such operations or activities shall be deemed to be permitted there, as either a primary or accessory use, so long as conducted in accordance with best management practices guidelines adopted by the commissioner of the department of agriculture, markets, and food and with applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and rules.”
    • Conditional — Existing agricultural uses and activities established pursuant to RSA 674:32-a, including expansion, alteration, or change to another agricultural use or activity.
      “Any agricultural use or activity which exists pursuant to RSA 674:32-a may without restriction be expanded, altered to meet changing technology or markets, or changed to another agricultural use or activity, as set forth in RSA 21:34-a, so long as any such expansion, alteration, or change complies with all federal and state laws, regulations, and rules, including agricultural best management practices guidelines adopted by the commissioner of the department of agriculture, markets, and food; subject, however, to the following limitations:”
    • Available — Normal agricultural operations otherwise subject to the terrain-alteration permitting provisions of RSA 485-A:17.
      “Normal agricultural operations shall be exempt from the provisions of this section.”
  • Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionAvailable

    A tent erected as an accessory structure on property containing an owner-occupied one- or two-family dwelling in New Hampshire.

    • The structure must be a tent erected as an accessory structure.
    • The property must be an owner-occupied one- or two-family dwelling.
    • The statutory exemption applies to a tent of any size.
    • Applicable state or local building requirements and land-use restrictions may still apply.

    tent size: any size (Only when erected as an accessory structure on an owner-occupied one- or two-family dwelling.)

    “A building permit shall not be required for a tent of any size erected as an accessory structure on property that is an owner-occupied, one or 2-family dwelling.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in New Hampshire municipalities that have authorized planning-board subdivision jurisdiction under RSA 674:35.

    • Municipal authorization by ordinance or resolution is required.
    • The planning board acts under the enactment procedures of RSA 675:6.
    • The municipality may authorize preliminary review and approval or disapproval of subdivision plats and related street and utility plans.
    • The planning board may not limit the number of building permits except through the statutory timing, phased-development, or moratorium mechanisms identified in RSA 674:35, III.
    • The planning board retains authority to deny a subdivision application because it is scattered or premature.

    authorization instrument: ordinance or resolution · enactment procedure: RSA 675:6

    “The planning board of a municipality shall have the authority to regulate the subdivision of land under the enactment procedures of RSA 675:6.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Subdivision-related ISDS approval in Merrimack County.
      “Any lot of less than 5 acres in size that does not have subdivision approval or meet one of the exceptions listed in Env-Wq 1003.11(a) shall not be considered for ISDS approval without meeting the requirements of Env-Wq 1000 for subdivision approval.”
    • Limited — Subdivision of land in Merrimack County where the relevant municipality has authorized planning-board subdivision regulation.
      “A municipality may by ordinance or resolution authorize the planning board to require preliminary review of subdivisions”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land within New Hampshire municipalities, through locally authorized planning-board regulation under the state statutory framework.
      “The planning board of a municipality shall have the authority to regulate the subdivision of land under the enactment procedures of RSA 675:6.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in New Hampshire where the municipality has authorized its planning board to regulate subdivision under RSA 675:6.
      “A municipality may by ordinance or resolution authorize the planning board to require preliminary review of subdivisions, and to approve or disapprove, in its discretion, plats, and to approve or disapprove plans showing the extent to which and the manner in which streets within subdivisions shall be graded and improved and to which streets water, sewer, and other utility mains, piping, connections, or facilities within subdivisions shall be installed.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Statewide development involving dredging, excavation, fill, mining, forest-product transport, or construction in or on the border of state surface waters, and activity significantly altering terrain so as to impede natural runoff or create unnatural runoff; this includes projects proposing fill within the 100-year floodplain.

    • Detailed plans and requested additional information must be submitted to the department at least 30 days before the activity; operations cannot begin until the department issues a permit.
    • For proposed fill within the 100-year floodplain, the application must identify the floodplain boundary and compensatory-storage locations and volumes. Compensatory storage must be at equal or lower elevations than the fill, on the same site, hydraulically connected to the floodplain, and have removal volume at least equal to proposed fill volume.
    • For fill exceeding 0.5 acre-feet or a bridge or culvert crossing, the application must include the watershed size, bank photographs, and supporting floodplain-impact analysis.
    • If hydraulic modeling indicates raised flood stages on abutting properties or adverse effects on channel stability or surface-water quality, compensatory flood storage or conveyance must ensure no increase in flood stages on abutting properties and no adverse effect on channel stability.
    • Normal agricultural operations are exempt from RSA 485-A:17. Timber harvesting is issued a permit by rule if it follows the specified best-management practices and an intent-to-cut form is signed. Qualifying trail-modification operations are issued a general permit by rule when performed by a nonprofit, municipality, or government entity, limited to a disturbed area no more than 12 feet wide, and conducted under the specified best-management practices.

    plans submission lead time: >= 30 days (Before undertaking the regulated activity.) · additional floodplain-fill analysis threshold: > 0.5 acre-feet (Also required for any bridge or culvert crossing.)

    “For all projects with proposed placement of fill within the 100-year floodplain, the applicant shall provide the following with the application:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Projects involving placement of fill within a FEMA 100-year floodplain in Merrimack County, and municipal floodplain ordinances where adopted.
      “For any project where the total fill volume is greater than 0.5 acre-feet or where a bridge or culvert crossing is proposed”
    • Limited — Municipal floodplain and fluvial-erosion-hazard land-use regulation in New Hampshire.
      “Municipalities may adopt floodplain ordinances as part of their enrollment in the National Flood Insurance Program.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Advertisements and operation of short-term rentals subject to New Hampshire meals and rooms taxation.

    • Print, display, publication, distribution, and online advertisements must include the operator's meals and rooms license number.
    • A violation may result in a warning that the operator's license may be revoked, suspended, or denied.
    • The warning must notify the operator of the obligation to obtain a meals and rooms license and pay the meals and rooms tax.
    • Subsequent violations may constitute sufficient cause for revocation, suspension, or denial of the license.
    • The statute does not change or alter the property's use for purposes of compliance with a local zoning ordinance.
    “Any advertisement for a short-term rental [...] shall include the meals and rooms license number of the operator, as defined in RSA 78-A:3.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    State building permit fees collected by the state fire marshal under the state building permit system.

    • Applies to construction and renovation of buildings and structures, except one- and two-family dwellings, in municipalities that have not adopted a local enforcement mechanism for the state building code, and to buildings and structures owned by the State, the community college system, or the university system.
    • Separate permits are required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire protection work.
    • New commercial construction building permit fee is $0.30 per gross square foot.
    • Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permit fees are calculated by contracted construction cost and are not less than $75.
    • Fire protection system permit fee is $1.00 per device with a $35 minimum.
    • Re-inspection fees are $100 for building and fire protection permits; electrical, plumbing, and mechanical re-inspection fees are 10% of the calculated fee, not less than $100 and not more than $500.
    • Fees for other structures and uses are $1.00 per gross square foot with a $35 minimum; re-inspection fee is $100.

    new commercial building permit fee: 0.3 USD per gross square foot · electrical/plumbing/mechanical minimum permit fee: >= 75 USD · fire protection system permit fee: per 1 USD per device (minimum $35) · building/fire protection re-inspection fee: 100 USD per re-inspection · other structures and uses building permit fee: 1 USD per gross square foot (minimum $35)

    “The building permit fee shall be $.30 per gross square foot;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Construction subject to New Hampshire’s state building code and building-permit requirements.

    • Before starting covered construction, the responsible person must obtain a permit.
    • In municipalities with an enforcement mechanism, the permit follows the locally adopted process.
    • The building official must approve or deny a completed application within 30 days; nonresidential applications or residential applications for more than 10 dwelling units must be approved or denied within 60 days.
    • State fire marshal applications must be filed at least 30 days before the intended construction start date when the state building permit system applies.
    • Applications require the prescribed form, property and applicant information, permit type, use and occupancy, work description, square footage, design-professional information, construction documents, and municipal planning or zoning approval when warranted.

    ordinary completed application decision deadline: 30 days (nonresidential applications or residential applications encompassing more than 10 dwelling units: 60 days) · state fire marshal application filing deadline: >= 30 days before intended construction start

    “Upon the submission of a completed application, the building official shall act to approve or deny a building permit within 30 days;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Building permit applications in Merrimack County.
      “Upon the submission of a completed application, the building official shall act to approve or deny a building permit within 30 days; provided, however, that nonresidential applications or residential applications encompassing more than 10 dwelling units shall be approved or denied within 60 days.”
    • Published (with conditions) — State building-permit process applicable in Merrimack County.
      “within 30 days [...] shall be approved or denied within 60 days.”
  • Campground & park staysTemporary only (with conditions)

    Recreational vehicles placed at New Hampshire recreational campgrounds or camping parks.

    • The campground or camping park must contain 2 or more campsites occupied or intended for temporary recreational dwelling occupancy.
    • The use is for temporary occupancy only and not permanent year-round residency.
    • A year-round site must meet Env-Wq 1008.04 requirements for a single-family house.
    • Local municipalities retain authority to enforce local zoning and health-and-safety regulations.
    • For occasional commercial or noncommercial RV use on a parcel for no more than 7 days in a calendar year, the landowner or responsible party must file a statement of compliance with the municipal governing body within 7 days before use, and RSA 216-I:4, II still applies.

    minimum campsite area: >= 1000 square feet (Applies to each recreational vehicle or recreational camping cabin campsite.) · occasional parcel use: <= 7 days per calendar year (Statement of compliance required within 7 days before commencement; RSA 216-I:4, II remains applicable.)

    “intended for temporary occupancy for recreational dwelling purposes only, and not for permanent year-round residency”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Recreational-vehicle occupancy at a recreational campground or camping park regulated under RSA chapter 216-I.
      “temporary occupancy for recreational dwelling purposes only, and not for permanent year-round residency”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Occasional commercial or noncommercial recreational-vehicle use on a parcel of land outside the general RSA chapter 216-I campground requirements.
      “not more than 7 days in any calendar year”
  • county building authorityLimited

    County building-permit authority for buildings erected on leased land within unincorporated towns or unorganized places.

    • The county must be a county in which there are located unincorporated towns or unorganized places.
    • The building must be erected on leased land located within an unincorporated town or unorganized place.
    • The county planning board must require the building permit under RSA 674:41(IV).
    • The county must, by resolution, authorize the planning board to issue building permits under this paragraph.
    • The permit is required regardless of the building's proximity to any street or highway.
    • Separately, RSA 155-A:4(I) requires the person responsible for covered construction to obtain a permit before starting work, and RSA 155-A:4(V) bars issuance of a building or occupancy permit for construction, remodeling, or maintenance that does not comply with applicable zoning ordinances, building codes, or planning-board regulations.
    • The state building code applies statewide, while RSA 155-A:3 describes local enforcement mechanisms as municipal and reserves permit and fee administrative amendments to municipalities.
    “every building which is erected on leased land [...] to have a building permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — New Hampshire counties in which there are located unincorporated towns or unorganized places may establish and administer local enforcement mechanisms for the state building code, including building permits and inspections.
      “"County" means the local legislative body of a county in which there are unincorporated towns or unorganized places. [...] The local legislative body, as defined in RSA 155-A:1, IX, is hereby empowered and authorized to establish a local enforcement agency, as defined in RSA 155-A:1, III, to enforce the state building code adopted under RSA 155-A.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    New Hampshire counties in which there are located unincorporated towns or unorganized places may adopt or amend zoning ordinances governing those areas.

    • The authority is exercised by the county local legislative body under RSA 675:2-5 procedures.
    • The ordinance may regulate building height, stories, building and structure size, lot sizes, lot coverage, yards, courts, open spaces, population density, and the location and use of buildings, structures, and land.
    • The authority includes innovative land-use controls, including methods described in RSA 674:21.
    • The county may regulate and control development timing under RSA 674:22.
    • Amateur-radio antenna regulations must conform to the stated federal preemption, subject to the statutory exceptions in RSA 424:5, RSA 422-B, or other Title XXXIX provisions.
    • Accessory uses on private land may be regulated; unless specifically proscribed, aircraft takeoffs and landings on private land by the owner or a resident are a valid and permitted accessory use.
    • Home-based care must be allowed by right when applicable department requirements are met, and local ordinances may not differ from RSA 170-E or He-C 4002 requirements.
    • The county may regulate accessory parking but may not require more than one residential parking space per unit; from September 13, 2026, it also may not require that the space be garaged.
    • The county may not restrict dwelling occupancy below 2 occupants per bedroom or adopt/enforce specified relationship, marital-status, occupation, employment-status, or educational-status restrictions.
    • Private covenants are not overridden.
    “For the purpose of promoting the health, safety, or the general welfare of the community, the local legislative body of any city, town, or county in which there are located unincorporated towns or unorganized places is authorized to adopt or amend a zoning ordinance under the ordinance enactment procedures of RSA 675:2-5.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — A county in which unincorporated towns or unorganized places are located; authority is exercised by its local legislative body.
      “county in which there are located unincorporated towns or unorganized places is authorized to adopt or amend a zoning ordinance”

Inside cities and towns in Merrimack County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land-use and development applications within the City of Concord, located in Merrimack County, New Hampshire.

    • This is a municipality-specific finding and does not establish that Merrimack County itself administers zoning or that every municipality in the county has the same zoning rules.
    • The City's Planning Division reviews applications for compliance with the Zoning Ordinance and enforces that ordinance.
    “The key functions of the Planning Division are to provide staff support for the groups listed below, review applications for compliance with the Zoning Ordinance, Site Plan Regulations, and Subdivision Regulations, enforce the Zoning Ordinance, and guide the development and implementation of the Concord Master Plan 2030.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning administration within the City of Concord, Merrimack County, New Hampshire.
      “all zoning functions were transferred from the Code Administration Division to the Planning Division. This transition was implemented on September 30, 2024.”
    • Present — Zoning administration and zoning districts within the City of Concord, Merrimack County, New Hampshire.
      “The key functions of the Planning Division are to provide staff support for the groups listed below, review applications for compliance with the Zoning Ordinance, Site Plan Regulations, and Subdivision Regulations, enforce the Zoning Ordinance, and guide the development and implementation of the Concord Master Plan 2030.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Minimum lot-area requirements in City of Concord zoning districts under the official city-hosted draft Chapter 28 zoning ordinance.

    • The source is labeled Draft May 28, 2019; current applicability should be confirmed with Concord. Lot area varies by zoning district. Where a lot is not served by municipal sewer and an on-site subsurface disposal system is required, the lot must meet the larger of the NHDES-required area or the ordinance minimum.

    R-WS minimum lot area: 174240 SF (Buildable lot area minimum 20,000 SF; lot area per 0.25 unit value minimum 43,560 SF) · R-5 minimum lot area: 20000 SF

    “A Lot area (min) 174,240 SF [...] A Lot area (min) 20,000 SF”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Floodplain development where a Merrimack County municipality has adopted a floodplain ordinance, including municipalities enrolled in the National Flood Insurance Program.

    • Municipalities may adopt floodplain ordinances as amendments to zoning ordinances or as separate ordinances.
    • Separate floodplain ordinances must follow zoning-ordinance legal and procedural requirements and include a board of adjustment.
    • This claim does not establish which Merrimack County municipalities currently have such ordinances.
    “Municipalities may adopt floodplain ordinances either as an amendment to an existing zoning ordinance or as a separate ordinance.”

Set by your town or city, not the county

In New Hampshire, zoning is adopted by each town or city, so Merrimack County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your town or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Minimum dwelling size
  • Camping on your land

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 Merrimack County, New Hampshire

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

Merrimack County scores 68/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and 33 operating mines. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use and about 30,370 people within a 30-minute drive.

How much does land cost in Merrimack County, New Hampshire?

Land in Merrimack County runs about $7,512 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Merrimack County?

Merrimack County gets about 47.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 5.2% of years.

How remote is Merrimack County?

A representative private-land location has about 30,370 people within a 30-minute drive and 5,574,427 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 Merrimack compares in New Hampshire

Compare side-by-side →See all 10 New Hampshire counties ranked →