Bolthole Index

Highland County, Ohio

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Highland County, Ohio

65Index Score / 100
#17 of 88 in Ohio

Most unincorporated land in Highland County, Ohio has no county residential building permit or countywide zoning review12. Salem and Madison townships have their own zoning, and incorporated jurisdictions may have separate building and zoning rules34. The Highland County Health Department still requires permits for septic systems and private wells567.

At a glance

Building permit
No county residential permit in the remaining unincorporated areas; verify the parcel's municipal or township jurisdiction18
Zoning
No countywide zoning in the remaining unincorporated areas; Salem and Madison townships have their own rules23
Septic permits
Highland County Health Department requires site review and an installation or alteration permit56
Private wells
A Health Department permit is required to construct, alter, seal or decommission a private water system7
RV living
No county zoning restriction in the remaining unincorporated areas, but sanitation, floodplain and local rules still apply39
Tiny homes
No county zoning restriction in the remaining unincorporated areas; septic and other applicable requirements remain10
Minimum home size
No county zoning-based minimum in the remaining unincorporated areas11
Septic soil difficulty
Only 3.6% of county soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field12

Who to call

Health department

Highland County Health Department, Environmental Health Division

Household sewage treatment system (septic) site review, installation/alteration and operation permits, and private water system (well) permits and inspections for Highland County

937. 393. 1941

[email protected]

1487 N. High Street, Suite 400, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Highland County Planning Commission

Minor and major subdivision approval, lot splits, variance applications and subdivision fees for Highland County

937-393-1911

119 Governor Foraker Place, Suite 211, Hillsboro, OH 45133

Online permits →

Roads & driveways

Highland County Engineer

County road and bridge engineering; one of the approving agencies listed on Highland County's subdivision application for road access questions

937-393-3496

138 Bowers Avenue, Hillsboro, OH 45133

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 28, 2026.

Do you need a building permit in Highland County, Ohio?

Most residential work in unincorporated Highland County does not require a county building permit because the county has not adopted a building code or established county residential-building-department jurisdiction18. Ohio's residential code says that when no certified municipal, township or county residential building department has jurisdiction, an owner need not submit construction documents, seek code approvals, request code inspections or obtain a residential-code certificate of occupancy131415. This answer does not carry into a city or other jurisdiction with a certified department; Hillsboro has its own plan-review process16. Agricultural buildings incident to agricultural use may also qualify for a state building-code exemption, but retail use and other requirements can change that result17.

Who handles Highland County building permits, and how do you reach them?

Highland County does not list a county residential building department for the remaining unincorporated areas18. Start with the Highland County Planning Commission when a project divides land: the commission handles minor and major subdivisions, lot splits and related applications1819. A minor-subdivision application carries a $25-per-lot fee, while other published planning fees depend on the application type20. Contact the Highland County Health Department for septic site review and private-well permits21227. Contact the Highland County Engineer about county-road access and subdivision road review; a separate county-road driveway permit could not be confirmed23. A driveway connecting to an ODOT-controlled state highway uses the state access-permit process instead24.

Does Highland County have zoning?

Highland County has no countywide zoning ordinance for the remaining unincorporated areas2. Those areas consequently have no county zoning-based minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setback, lot-coverage limit or building-height limit1125262728. Salem and Madison townships have specific zoning regulations, and rules also vary among incorporated jurisdictions, so identify the parcel's township and municipal status before relying on the countywide answer34. County subdivision approval, septic suitability, deed restrictions and other non-zoning controls can still constrain a parcel2526. A permanently sited manufactured home generally cannot be excluded from a district where a single-family home is permitted, although uniformly applied zoning standards and private deed restrictions may still apply29.

How do septic and well permits work in Highland County?

The Highland County Health Department requires a site review before it accepts an application to install or replace a sewage treatment system or alter an existing system6. The site review includes the application and fee, a soil evaluation and system design, and installation cannot begin until the board of health issues the permit6. The board inspects installation and later operation of the completed system30. Only 3.6% of Highland County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early purchase contingency rather than assuming a standard trench system will work12. Sewage from a dwelling must go to an approved treatment system or an available public sewer; off-grid occupancy does not waive sanitation rules9. Private wells also require a board-of-health permit before construction, alteration, sealing or decommissioning, followed by inspection731.

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

The remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County have no county zoning restriction on private RV occupancy, temporary camping or tiny-home occupancy33210. That is a county-zoning answer, not a waiver of sewage, drinking-water, floodplain, deed or township rules39. In mapped flood-hazard areas, an RV must satisfy one of the state's placement alternatives, which include staying fewer than 180 consecutive days, remaining licensed and highway-ready, or meeting specified permit, elevation and anchoring requirements33. Salem and Madison township zoning must be checked separately3. A tiny home is not automatically a manufactured home; a qualifying permanently sited manufactured home follows separate state standards and is permitted where the local jurisdiction allows single-family homes34. Ask the Health Department how the proposed dwelling will lawfully handle sewage before occupying it219.

Building a home in Highland County: the steps, in order

  1. Identify whether the parcel is in an incorporated jurisdiction, Salem Township, Madison Township or the remaining unincorporated county; local zoning and building administration vary by location43.
  1. If the project creates a new lot, take the division to the Highland County Planning Commission before closing or construction1819.
  1. Arrange the septic soil evaluation and site review early, then obtain the installation permit before work begins21612.
  1. Obtain a Health Department permit before drilling or altering a private well7.
  1. Resolve access with the Highland County Engineer for county-road questions or ODOT for a state-highway driveway2324.
  1. Confirm whether a certified local building department has jurisdiction; the county itself has not adopted a residential building code for the remaining unincorporated areas8.

What should you check before buying land in Highland County?

Put septic feasibility first: only 3.6% of Highland County soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field12. Verify parcel jurisdiction because Salem Township, Madison Township and incorporated places can impose rules that do not apply across the remaining unincorporated county34. Ask the Planning Commission whether a proposed split satisfies subdivision review, and ask the County Engineer about county-road access181923. Highland County reports no county flood-damage-prevention regulations, but state, federal or municipal requirements may still affect flood-prone land35. Most county land is comparatively gentle, with 91.5% at a slope of 15% or less, while 29.9% is wooded3637. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.9%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $1,4753839.

Watch-outs

  • Salem and Madison townships have their own zoning, so confirm the township before relying on the rules for the remaining unincorporated county3.
  • Highland County reports no county flood-damage-prevention regulations, but that does not remove applicable state, federal or municipal flood requirements35.
  • A separate permit rule for a new driveway onto a Highland County road could not be confirmed; ask the County Engineer before designing access23.

Sources

  1. Highland County Ohio Commissioners - Government offices (2026 county census)
  2. Highland County- Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  3. Public Health Nuisances — Highland County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  4. Highland County Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  5. Highland County Health Department - Household Sewage Systems (2026 county census)
  6. Rule 3701-29-09 | Site review and permits for STS installation and operation, quoted and re-checked
  7. Rule 3701-28-03 | Permits, system approval and sampling requirements, quoted and re-checked
  8. Highland County Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  9. Rule 3701-29-06 | General provisions and prohibitions, quoted and re-checked
  10. Public Health Nuisances — Highland County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  11. Highland County- Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  12. Share of soils without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field (USDA SSURGO): Bolthole Index county data
  13. Residential Code of Ohio for One-, Two-, and Three-Family Dwellings, quoted and re-checked
  14. Residential Code of Ohio for One-, Two-, and Three-Family Dwellings, quoted and re-checked
  15. Residential Code of Ohio for One-, Two-, and Three-Family Dwellings, quoted and re-checked
  16. Residential Plan Review Instructions, quoted and re-checked
  17. Section 3781.06 | Public buildings to be safe and sanitary - definitions, quoted and re-checked
  18. Highland County Planning Commission (co.highland.oh.us)
  19. Application for Minor / Large Lot Subdivision Approval, quoted and re-checked
  20. Application for Minor / Large Lot Subdivision Approval, quoted and re-checked
  21. Highland County Health Department, Environmental Health Division (highlandcountyhealth.org)
  22. Household Sewage Systems — Highland County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  23. Highland County Engineer (co.highland.oh.us)
  24. State Highway Access Management Manual, quoted and re-checked
  25. Highland County- Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  26. Highland County- Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  27. Highland County- Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  28. Highland County- Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  29. Section 519.212 | Location of permanently sited manufactured home, quoted and re-checked
  30. Rule 3701-29-09 | Site review and permits for STS installation and operation, quoted and re-checked
  31. Rule 3701-28-04 | Inspection; water sample collection and analysis and water quality standards, quoted and re-checked
  32. Public Health Nuisances — Highland County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  33. Rule 1501:22-1-04 | Floodplain management criteria, quoted and re-checked
  34. Chapter 3781 - Ohio Revised Code, quoted and re-checked
  35. Highland County Countywide All Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2024-2028, quoted and re-checked
  36. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  38. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  39. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written September 28, 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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County locator

Highland County in Ohio

65
County map
Highland County highlighted among the Ohio counties · colored by Index score

How Highland County scores

Seclusion33100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency72100% ev.
Admin Boringness8090% ev.
Durability78100% ev.
Property Autonomy35100% ev.
Carry Cost73100% 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 →

$209kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$6,081Land / acre
44.9"Annual rain
1.2% of yrsSevere drought
3.2 / yr (+3.1)Mid-century 100°F days
12.2 daysMid-century dry spell
1.82" (+8.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.94×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,397Home insurance / yr
2.6% / yrInsurance growth
1.9%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
61,933People within 30 min
6,365,978People within 2 hr
47,857Radius comparison (15 mi)
78.9People / sq mi
0.9%Federal land
91.5%Land at 15% slope or less
3.6%Septic soil without severe limits
11,663 acWorkable land screen
29.9%Wooded land
58.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
52.9°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Highland County

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

Highland County rules

  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Building-code adoption across Highland County, with the official county plan distinguishing unincorporated areas from Madison Township and incorporated jurisdictions.

    • The remaining unincorporated areas do not have building codes in place.
    • The unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio's codes.
    • The cited county plan does not identify the specific building-code adoption or enforcement authority for each incorporated jurisdiction.
    “Highland County Yes Yes No No No No Yes +/- $5,000,000 City of Hillsboro Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes yes”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County zoning in unincorporated Highland County.

    • The official county plan states that countywide zoning implementation had only begun as of the plan's discussion.
    • Madison Township and incorporated jurisdictions have separate zoning regulations; this claim does not apply to those jurisdictions.
    “Currently, Madison Township has zoning regulations in place as well as the incorporated jurisdictions in the County. The remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County do not have zoning regulations or building codes in place.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of municipal and township zoning within Highland County; the county is not asserted to administer each local ordinance.

    • The official county plan reports zoning ordinances for some incorporated jurisdictions and no zoning ordinances for others.
    • The table identifies City of Hillsboro and City of Greenfield as having zoning ordinances, while listed villages and townships vary.
    • The applicable rule depends on the specific municipality or township in which the property is located.
    “Madison Township has zoning regulations [...] remaining unincorporated areas [...] do not have zoning regulations”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    County zoning-based minimum dwelling size in the remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County.

    • This absence applies only to the remaining unincorporated areas; Madison Township and incorporated jurisdictions have zoning regulations.
    • The source states that unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.
    • Septic, subdivision, health, and other applicable state or local requirements may still apply.
    “Currently, Madison Township has zoning regulations in place as well as the incorporated jurisdictions in the County. The remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County do not have zoning regulations or building codes in place. The unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.”
  • Minimum lot sizeNone

    County zoning-based minimum lot size in the remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County.

    • This absence applies only to the remaining unincorporated areas; Madison Township and incorporated jurisdictions have zoning regulations.
    • The source states that unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.
    • Subdivision approval, septic suitability, and other non-zoning requirements may still apply.
    “Currently, Madison Township has zoning regulations in place as well as the incorporated jurisdictions in the County. The remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County do not have zoning regulations or building codes in place. The unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.”
  • SetbacksNone

    County zoning-based setbacks in the remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County.

    • This absence applies only to the remaining unincorporated areas; Madison Township and incorporated jurisdictions have zoning regulations.
    • The source states that unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.
    • Non-zoning restrictions, including subdivision, septic, floodplain, and deed restrictions, may still apply.
    “Currently, Madison Township has zoning regulations in place as well as the incorporated jurisdictions in the County. The remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County do not have zoning regulations or building codes in place. The unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.”
  • Lot coverageNone

    County zoning-based lot coverage limits in the remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County.

    • This absence applies only to the remaining unincorporated areas; Madison Township and incorporated jurisdictions have zoning regulations.
    • The source states that unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.
    • Other applicable development, septic, floodplain, and subdivision requirements are not displaced.
    “Currently, Madison Township has zoning regulations in place as well as the incorporated jurisdictions in the County. The remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County do not have zoning regulations or building codes in place. The unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.”
  • Building heightNone

    County zoning-based building-height limits in the remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County.

    • This absence applies only to the remaining unincorporated areas; Madison Township and incorporated jurisdictions have zoning regulations.
    • The source states that unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.
    • Non-zoning building, safety, septic, floodplain, and subdivision requirements may still apply.
    “Currently, Madison Township has zoning regulations in place as well as the incorporated jurisdictions in the County. The remaining unincorporated areas of Highland County do not have zoning regulations or building codes in place. The unincorporated areas typically comply with the State of Ohio’s codes.”
  • Living in an RVUnrestricted

    County-level zoning restrictions on private RV occupancy in unincorporated Highland County.

    • Highland County has no countywide zoning or building code, but Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations.
    • Campgrounds and RV parks remain subject to Ohio campground licensing and health requirements.
    • Incorporated municipalities may have their own ordinances.
    “Because Highland County does not have a countywide zoning or building code, the Health Department cannot inspect the safety, construction, or structural integrity of buildings. Our jurisdiction effectively ends at the front door. However, Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations, which are not overseen by the Health Department.”
  • Camping on your landUnrestricted

    County-level zoning restrictions on temporary camping outside licensed campgrounds in unincorporated Highland County.

    • Highland County has no countywide zoning or building code, but Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations.
    • Temporary campgrounds must be licensed; plan review and licensing are managed by the local health department.
    • Other state health, sewage, floodplain, and nuisance requirements may apply.
    • Incorporated municipalities may have their own ordinances.
    “Campgrounds, whether permanent or temporary, must be licensed and maintained according to the Ohio Administrative Code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary campgrounds in Highland County under the jurisdiction of the Highland County Health Department.
      “Plan review and licensing for temporary campgrounds are managed by the local health department.”
  • Tiny homesUnrestricted

    County-level zoning restrictions on tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated Highland County.

    • Highland County has no countywide zoning or building code, but Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations.
    • Building, septic, wastewater, floodplain, and other health requirements may still apply.
    • Incorporated municipalities may have their own ordinances.
    “Because Highland County does not have a countywide zoning or building code, the Health Department cannot inspect the safety, construction, or structural integrity of buildings. Our jurisdiction effectively ends at the front door. However, Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations, which are not overseen by the Health Department.”
  • Manufactured homesUnrestricted

    County-level zoning restrictions on manufactured-home occupancy in unincorporated Highland County.

    • Highland County has no countywide zoning or building code, but Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations.
    • Manufactured-home installation, foundations, parks, building safety, septic, wastewater, and other state or local requirements may still apply.
    • Incorporated municipalities may have their own ordinances.
    “Because Highland County does not have a countywide zoning or building code, the Health Department cannot inspect the safety, construction, or structural integrity of buildings. Our jurisdiction effectively ends at the front door. However, Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations, which are not overseen by the Health Department.”
  • Accessory dwellingsUnrestricted

    County-level zoning restrictions on accessory dwelling units in unincorporated Highland County.

    • Highland County has no countywide zoning or building code, but Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations.
    • Building, septic, wastewater, floodplain, and other health requirements may still apply.
    • Incorporated municipalities may have their own ordinances.
    “Because Highland County does not have a countywide zoning or building code, the Health Department cannot inspect the safety, construction, or structural integrity of buildings. Our jurisdiction effectively ends at the front door. However, Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations, which are not overseen by the Health Department.”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Household sewage treatment systems throughout Highland County, including new, replacement, and altered systems.

    • The Highland County Health Department's Environmental Health Division oversees household sewage treatment systems throughout the county.
    • The health department issues permits and conducts inspections for all new, replacement, and altered household sewage treatment systems.
    • For a new home without access to public sewer, or when an existing system is failing or not functioning properly, approval from the health department is required before installation, alteration, or replacement.
    • Site review and permit fees are non-refundable.
    • A site evaluation is required before installation; lot size, soil composition, and other factors are assessed for suitability.
    • The Ohio Administrative Code sewage-treatment rules apply statewide, and the Ohio Department of Health and applicable board of health are responsible for implementation.
    • The Ohio EPA's official project document identifies the administering entity as the Highland County General Health District.
    “The Highland County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division oversees all aspects of household sewage treatment systems, including installations, repairs, and sewage-related concerns. Our team of Environmental Health Specialists and Environmental Health Specialists in Training stays current on the latest sewage treatment technologies to ensure safe and effective wastewater management throughout the county. We issue permits and conduct inspections for all new, replacement, and altered household sewage treatment systems.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of a new or replacement sewage treatment system or alteration of an existing sewage treatment system in Highland County's local health district.

    • A site review is required before the board of health accepts an application for a permit to install a new or replacement STS or alter an existing STS.
    • The site review includes the completed application and fee, soil evaluation, and STS design; an incremental replacement plan is required when applicable.
    • The board of health conducts an on-site evaluation and must determine compliance with Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 3701-29 and applicable NPDES or UIC requirements before issuing a permit.
    • The permit includes the completed application and associated fee, an approved site review, and proof of Ohio EPA Class V injection-well registration if applicable.
    • An approved installation or alteration permit is valid for one year from issuance and may be extended six months.
    • Installation or alteration may only be conducted by a registered installer under the board of health permit.

    approved permit validity: 1 year from issuance (The board of health may extend the permit period for an additional six months.)

    “No person shall install a new or replacement STS or alter an existing STS without an installation or alteration permit issued by the board of health.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation and operation of sewage treatment systems in Highland County's local health district.

    • The board of health must inspect the installation in a timely manner; additional inspections may be required by the permit, product approval, or chapter.
    • The board of health must inspect the completed system again no later than twelve months after installation approval to assess operation and whether it causes a public-health nuisance or safety hazard.
    • The board of health must certify to the director within sixty days after that inspection that the inspection was performed.
    • An operation permit is required to operate an STS and may include maintenance, monitoring, effluent-quality, and service-contract conditions.
    • For incremental repair or replacement plans, annual or periodic inspections may be required and inspection fees may be charged.

    post-approval inspection deadline: <= 12 months (The inspection is to observe system operation.) · inspection certification deadline: <= 60 days after inspection · operation permit maximum term: <= 10 years (The board of health determines the renewal frequency.)

    “The board of health shall inspect the installation of the system in a timely manner to reduce the potential damage that can occur from leaving the system open without final cover. Additional inspections during the progress of the installation may be required as a condition of the installation permit, a product approval, or this chapter. [...] The board of health shall inspect the completed system again not later than twelve months after the approval of the installation to observe the system's operation.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, sealing, or decommissioning of private water systems and test wells in Highland County's local health district.

    • The applicant must apply to the board of health and pay the applicable permit fee; a fee for at least one water sample is required for alteration, conversion, or new-construction permits.
    • Except for specified sealing or emergency exceptions, work may not commence until a valid permit is issued and approved.
    • A site plan and required location and distance information must accompany a construction application.
    • A permit is required for conversion of a non-potable well, agricultural well, public water system, or geothermal system into a private water system; the conversion is treated as new construction.
    • The board of health determines compliance within ten business days when no plan is required, or fifteen business days when a plan is required.

    application review deadline without required plan: <= 10 business days (Measured from receipt of a complete application and appropriate fee.) · application review deadline with required plan: <= 15 business days (Measured from receipt of a complete application and appropriate fee.)

    “No person shall construct, alter or seal a private water system, test well or part thereof, unless a valid permit for the system has been issued by the board of health pursuant to this rule.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Properties used for human occupancy, employment, recreation, or other purposes within Highland County Sanitary Sewer Subdistrict No. 3 that abut a street, alley, or right-of-way containing a public sanitary sewer, where the sewer is within 200 feet of the property line.

    • Connection is required within ninety days after official notice.
    • The public sewer must be within two hundred feet of the property line.
    • Uninhabited outbuildings such as garages, barns, and storage facilities do not require sewer service under the rule.
    • New sources and connections must be properly designed and constructed and plans approved by the Highland County Sanitary Engineer.
    • A new connection to Sanitary Sewer Subdistrict No. 3 may be prohibited if it would exceed hydraulic capacity.

    connection deadline after official notice: 90 days · maximum sewer distance from property line: <= 200 feet (Applies to properties in Sanitary Sewer Subdistrict No. 3 abutting a street, alley, or right-of-way containing a public sanitary sewer.)

    “The Owner of all houses, buildings, or properties used for human occupancy, employment, recreation or other purposes, situated within the Highland County Sanitary Sewer Subdistrict No. 3 and abutting on any street, alley, or right-of-way in which there is now located a public sanitary sewer of the Highland County Sewer District is hereby required at his expense to install suitable toilet facilities therein, and to connect such facilities directly with the proper public sewer in accordance with the provisions of this ordinance, within ninety (90) days after date of official notice to do so, provided that said public sewer is within two hundred (200) feet of the property line.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Transfers or qualifying parcel divisions for agricultural or personal recreational use in Highland County Planning Commission jurisdiction outside incorporated municipal territory.

    • The transfer must be used only for agricultural or personal recreational purposes.
    • No septic systems are allowed under the county agricultural-use form.
    • The clerk must first determine that the parcel complies with the regulations set forth in Section 305.
    • The county's fee schedule lists a $50 fee for a large-lot division with agricultural or personal recreational exemptions.
    • Ohio Revised Code section 711.133 states that parcels used only for agricultural or personal recreational purposes are exempt from the approval requirements of that section, but future divisions or partitions remain subject to Chapter 711.
    • If an exempt parcel is later used for a non-agricultural or non-personal-recreational purpose, the planning authority must first determine that the parcel complies with the applicable rules.
    • The county form does not establish availability throughout incorporated municipalities; incorporated municipalities may apply separate platting rules.

    large lot division with agricultural or personal recreational exemption: 50 USD · septic systems: not allowed (the county agricultural-use form states no septic systems allowed)

    “This transfer is to be used only for agricultural or personal recreational purposes. No septic systems allowed.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Access for a minor subdivision reviewed by the Highland County Planning Commission.

    • The proposed subdivision must be along an existing public road.
    • The subdivision may not involve opening, widening, or extending any street.
    • This source addresses subdivision approval and does not establish a general driveway permit requirement for every parcel or roadway.
    “The proposed subdivision is along an existing public road”
  • Building in a floodplainNot required

    County-level flood-damage-prevention regulations for development in unincorporated Highland County.

    • The source expressly distinguishes the City of Hillsboro, whose city ordinances contain flood-damage-prevention measures.
    • State, federal, municipal, health, septic, or other applicable requirements may still apply.
    • This claim addresses the absence of a Highland County flood-damage-prevention regulation and does not establish that development is unrestricted under all other authorities.
    “Currently, Highland County does not have flood damage prevention regulations in place. The City of Hillsboro, Ohio Code of Ordinances has flood damage prevention measures within their city ordinances.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Fees for Highland County Planning Commission subdivision and related applications.

    • The listed fees apply to the subdivision applications identified on the official form.
    • Fees are payable to the Highland County Planning Commission.

    adjoining land application fee: 25 USD · minor subdivision application fee: per 25 USD per lot · large lot division application fee: 50 USD · large lot division with agricultural or PRP exemptions application fee: 50 USD · major subdivision application fee: 100 + 25 per lot USD · variance application fee: per 25 USD per application · Highland County Subdivision Regulations copy: per 5 USD per copy

    “Minor Subdivision Application Fee $25.00 per lot”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Highland County minor subdivision approval and related lot-division review.

    • The proposed subdivision must be along an existing public road and involve no opening, widening, or extension of any street.
    • No more than 4 lots may be involved after the original parcel has been completely subdivided.
    • The subdivision must not be contrary to applicable platting, subdividing, or zoning regulations; a variance can only be requested before the entire commission.
    • The property must be surveyed, and a sketch and legal description submitted.
    • After Tax Map Office approval, an executed deed must be submitted.
    • Approval must be obtained, where applicable, from the agencies listed on the form, including the Highland County Board of Health, Ohio Department of Transportation, Highland County Engineer, Tax Map Department, and Planning Commission.
    • The subdivision must comply with all deed restrictions.
    • Action must be taken within seven working days.

    application decision time: 7 working days

    “Action must be taken within seven (7) working days.”

Ohio rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, erection, manufacture, equipment, alteration, or addition of buildings subject to Ohio Revised Code section 3781.06, including industrialized units, statewide.

    • Plans or drawings, specifications, and data must be submitted before beginning the work.
    • Submission is made to the municipal, township, or county building department having jurisdiction.
    • If no certified municipal, township, or county building department certified for nonresidential buildings has jurisdiction, submission is made to the superintendent of industrial compliance.
    • If no certified municipal, township, or county building department certified for residential buildings has jurisdiction, the owner is not required to make the submission described in division (A)(1).
    “No owner shall proceed with the construction, erection, alteration, or equipment of any building until the plans or drawings, specifications, and data have been approved as this section requires, or the industrialized unit inspected at the point of origin.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Residential construction in Ohio where no municipal, township, or county building department certified for residential buildings has jurisdiction.
      “If no municipal, township, or county building department is certified by the Board of Building Standards for residential buildings in accordance with section 3781.10(E) of the Revised Code has jurisdiction, the owner is not required to make submission of construction documents, seek approvals, request inspections, or obtain certificates of occupancy required in this Chapter.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building work subject to Ohio building-code enforcement after certificate of plan approval, and inspections initiated after complaints, accidents, or natural disasters.

    • Inspections are directed after a certificate of plan approval has been issued, or after a complaint, accident, or natural disaster.
    • The building official identifies special conditions affecting inspection timing and schedules inspection times mutually agreed upon by the building official and owner.
    • Special inspections required under section 1704 of rule 4101:1-1-01 are excepted from the stated scheduling rule.
    • Certified inspectors inspect work within the limits of their certification and the approved construction documents.
    “Once a certificate of plan approval has been issued in accordance with rule 4101:1-1-01 or 4101:8-1-01 of the Administrative Code, or upon receipt of a complaint or occurrence of an accident or natural disaster, the building official directs necessary inspections and investigations to determine whether the work which has been performed and the installations which have been made are in conformity with the approved construction documents.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Residential construction in Ohio where no certified municipal, township, or county residential building department has jurisdiction.
      “If no municipal, township, or county building department is certified by the Board of Building Standards for residential buildings in accordance with section 3781.10(E) of the Revised Code has jurisdiction, the owner is not required to make submission of construction documents, seek approvals, request inspections, or obtain certificates of occupancy required in this Chapter.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Residential construction in Ohio where no certified municipal, township, or county residential building department has jurisdiction.

    • If a certified residential building department has jurisdiction, the exception does not apply.
    • The exception applies to certificates of occupancy required in the Residential Code of Ohio chapter.
    • The cited rule is effective 2019-07-01.
    “If no municipal, township, or county building department is certified by the Board of Building Standards for residential buildings in accordance with section 3781.10(E) of the Revised Code has jurisdiction, the owner is not required to make submission of construction documents, seek approvals, request inspections, or obtain certificates of occupancy required in this Chapter.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Sewage and human excreta from dwellings and buildings in Ohio, including Highland County.

    • Sewage and human excreta must be conveyed to an approved sewage treatment system or sanitary sewerage system.
    • Gray water, in whole or in part, may be conveyed to an approved gray water recycling system installed and operated under OAC 3701-29-17.
    • A sewage treatment system may not be sited, permitted, or installed where a sanitary sewerage system is accessible, unless otherwise excepted by law; when a sanitary sewer becomes accessible, the dwelling or structure must connect and the STS must be abandoned.
    • Discharge to surface water or the ground requires an NPDES permit or other specified authorization.
    • Discharge to an abandoned well, drainage well, dry well, cesspool, sinkhole, or other groundwater connection is prohibited.
    “All sewage and human excreta generated from within a dwelling or building shall be conveyed to an approved STS or a sanitary sewerage system. All or a portion of the gray water from the dwelling or building may be conveyed to an approved GWRS installed and operated in accordance with rule 3701-29-17 of the Administrative Code.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and platting of land in Ohio, including divisions of parcels and plats outside municipal corporations.

    • A subdivision includes division of a parcel into two or more parcels, sites, or lots when any one is less than five acres for immediate or future transfer of ownership.
    • A division or partition into parcels of more than five acres is exempt when it does not involve new streets or easements of access.
    • A sale or exchange between adjoining lot owners is exempt when it does not create additional building sites.
    • A planning authority may adopt a rule under section 711.133 exempting parcels of four acres or more within the size range delineated in that rule.
    • Improvement of land involving division or allocation for opening, widening, or extension of public or private streets, or for common open spaces or utility easements, is also included in the statutory subdivision definition.
    • No plat certifying lands outside a municipal corporation may be recorded without approval by the board of county commissioners, except where approval is required from a planning commission under sections 711.09 or 711.10.
    • The cited section 711.001 states an effective date of July 1, 2010; the cited section 711.041 states an effective date of October 6, 1955.

    subdivision parcel threshold: < 5 acres (The statutory definition applies when any resulting parcel, site, or lot is less than five acres.) · exempt parcel size: > 5 acres (Division or partition into parcels of more than five acres is exempt if no new streets or easements of access are involved.) · possible planning-authority exemption threshold: >= 4 acres (Only if the planning authority adopts a rule under section 711.133 and only within the size range delineated in that rule.)

    “No plat certifying lands outside a municipal corporation may be recorded without the approval thereon of the board of county commissioners”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Occupancy and placement of recreational vehicles in Ohio-licensed campgrounds and temporary campgrounds.

    • Recreational vehicles may be parked only on sites verified as complying with plans approved by the director, or, for a temporary campground, by the licensor.
    • A campground site may contain no more than one recreational vehicle and two portable camping units, or three portable camping units.
    • Sites generally must be at least 1,000 square feet, subject to the temporary-campground density exception determined by the licensor where open fires are prohibited.
    • Separation, sanitation, sewage, gray-water, and licensed-capacity requirements also apply.

    minimum campground site area: >= 1000 square feet (Except as provided in paragraph (I)(11) for temporary campgrounds.) · recreational vehicles per site: 1 vehicle (A site may also contain two portable camping units; alternatively, a site may contain three portable camping units.)

    “Recreational vehicles or portable camping units shall be parked only on sites that have been verified as complying with plans approved by the director, or in the case of a temporary campground, by the licensor;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Prohibited — Camping in Ohio state forests outside areas, sites, or campgrounds designated by the chief of the division of forestry or an authorized agent.
      “No person shall camp in a state forest except in areas, sites or campgrounds designated by the chief of the division of forestry or authorized agent.”
    • Limited — Roadside camping at designated Ohio state forests along public roads maintained by the division of forestry.
      “Roadside camping is permitted at designated state forests, along public roads maintained by the division of forestry, during certain legally established hunting seasons as authorized by the chief of the division of forestry.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    County commissioners may adopt zoning resolutions regulating building, structures, land uses, and districts or zones in unincorporated territory statewide.

    • The authority is exercised by resolution and must be in accordance with a comprehensive plan.
    • The authority applies to unincorporated territory of the county.
    • The statute begins with the exception phrase “Except as otherwise provided in this section,” so the limitations in ORC Chapter 303 apply.
    • For nonresidential property only, the county may regulate height, bulk, number of stories, size, lot coverage, yards, courts, open spaces, and population density.
    • Agricultural uses and agricultural buildings are subject to the limitations in ORC 303.21; the statute also contains limitations for public utilities, railroads, telecommunications towers, alcoholic-beverage sales, oil and gas drilling, and permanently sited manufactured homes.
    • Activities regulated under ORC Chapters 1513 and 1514 may be regulated only in the interest of public health or safety, and Chapter 1514 activities must be provided for as permitted or conditional uses as specified by ORC 303.02.
    “the board of county commissioners may regulate by resolution, in accordance with a comprehensive plan”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    County commissioners may adopt and enforce local residential building regulations in unincorporated areas and may operate certified county building departments that enforce state residential and nonresidential building codes, accept and approve plans, and conduct inspections.

    • Local residential building regulations may be enforced within the unincorporated area or within districts established in the unincorporated area.
    • A local residential building regulation may not differ from the state residential building code unless it addresses subject matter not addressed by that code or is adopted under ORC 3781.01.
    • An existing structures code must concern subject matter not addressed by, and may not conflict with, the state residential building code.
    • County building departments may enforce state codes only for the types of buildings and subject matters for which they are certified.
    • Certification permits enforcement authority, plan approval, and inspections; the certification application identifies whether it covers residential or nonresidential buildings and whether residential certification covers new construction only or also repair and alteration.
    • The board may adopt flood-hazard, Lake Erie coastal-erosion, and drainage regulations, subject to the statutory limits and exceptions in ORC 307.37.
    • Local regulations, codes, or amendments require public hearings at not fewer than two regular or special board sessions; they take effect on the thirty-first day after adoption.
    • Regulations adopted under ORC 307.37 generally do not affect buildings or structures existing, or under construction, before adoption, except as provided for an existing structures code.
    • The state residential building code is effective as a uniform requirement in areas with a building department certified to enforce it.
    “The board of county commissioners may adopt local residential building regulations governing residential buildings as defined in section 3781.06 of the Revised Code”

Inside cities and towns in Highland County

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

  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Residential and commercial construction plan review within the City of Hillsboro.

    • For residential construction, the city requires three sets of plans for new builds, additions, alterations, decks, and accessory buildings or garages.
    • Fees must be paid before release of the plan approval certificate.
    • An approved plan review and certificate of plan approval are required before construction starts.
    • The cited city instructions do not identify the full certification scope of the responsible building department.
    “YOU MUST HAVE AN APPROVED PLAN REVIEW AND CERTIFICATE OF PLAN APPROVAL BEFORE YOU START CONSTRUCTION”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning checks and local zoning controls within the City of Hillsboro, Highland County, Ohio.

    • The official city mapping portal is described as providing zoning checks; parcel-specific applicability must be confirmed through the city.
    • This claim does not apply to unincorporated Highland County or other municipalities.
    “A simplified interface for quick address search, zoning checks, and basic navigation.”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Publication of zoning districts or zoning controls in Madison Township, Highland County.

    • The county plan states that Madison Township has zoning regulations, but the cited passage does not identify the township's district names, boundaries, dimensional standards, or official zoning map.
    • The county plan separately states that incorporated jurisdictions have zoning regulations and that remaining unincorporated areas do not have zoning regulations or building codes; municipal rules therefore require separate jurisdiction-specific research.
    “Currently, Madison Township has zoning regulations in place”

Still unanswered

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

  • Owner-builder exemption — An owner-builder exemption from residential building permit, plan approval, inspection, or occupancy requirements in unincorporated Highland County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Highland County.

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 Highland County, Ohio

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

Highland County scores 65/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: about 61,933 people within a 30-minute drive and a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

Do you need a building permit in Highland County, Ohio?

Highland County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Highland County Health Department, Environmental Health (general health district under Ohio Department of Health). These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Highland County is allowed: County-level zoning restrictions on private RV occupancy in unincorporated Highland County. Highland County has no countywide zoning or building code, but Salem and Madison Townships have specific zoning regulations. Campgrounds and RV parks remain subject to Ohio campground licensing and health requirements. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Highland County, Ohio?

Land in Highland County runs about $6,081 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Highland County?

Highland County gets about 44.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.2% of years.

How remote is Highland County?

A representative private-land location has about 61,933 people within a 30-minute drive and 6,365,978 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.

Off-grid gear

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

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How Highland compares in Ohio

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