Bolthole Index

Perry County, Ohio

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

70Index Score / 100
#4 of 88 in Ohio

In Perry County, Ohio, Mid-East Ohio Building Department issues commercial plan approvals and inspections, but it expressly has no authority over one-, two- or three-family homes1. The reviewed sources do not identify a residential permitting office for every Perry County property, so confirm the answer for your parcel before building. Township zoning varies, while septic and private-well permits go through the Perry County Health Department234.

At a glance

Residential building permit
Mid-East Ohio does not cover one-, two- or three-family homes; confirm the residential authority for the parcel5
Commercial building permit
Required for regulated commercial work in Mid-East Ohio's Perry County jurisdiction1
Zoning
Varies by township and municipality; ask the applicable local zoning inspector2
Septic permit
Required through the Perry County Health Department for a new or altered household system3
Private well permit
Required through the Perry County Health Department for development or alteration4
RV or tiny-home living
No countywide private-lot rule was confirmed; ask the township or municipality before relying on occupancy2
County-road driveway
A Perry County Driveway Permit is required for installation on a county road6

Who to call

Building permits

Mid-East Ohio Building Department

Commercial building plan approvals and inspections in its Perry County service area; not one-, two- or three-family homes

(740) 455-7905

22 North 5th Street, Zanesville, Ohio

Online permits →

Health department

Perry County Health Department

Home sewage treatment system approvals and private water system permits for Perry County

740-342-5179

[email protected]

2235 OH-13, New Lexington, OH 43764

Online permits →

Roads & driveways

Perry County Engineer's Office

Driveway permits for installations on Perry County roads

(740) 342-2191

2645 Old Somerset Road, New Lexington, Ohio 43764

Online permits →

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 Perry County, Ohio?

Commercial and other nonresidential work regulated by the Ohio Building Code needs plan approval in the Mid-East Ohio Building Department's Perry County jurisdiction1. Mid-East Ohio is a commercial building department and expressly says it has no authority over one-, two- or three-family homes5. That limitation does not establish that every home project everywhere in Perry County is permit-free: the reviewed official sources do not identify the residential authority or jurisdictional boundaries for every parcel. Ask the township or municipality serving the property to identify any residential building department before construction. Separate approvals can still apply for township zoning, septic, a private well, floodplain development and a county-road driveway23476.

Who issues building permits in Perry County, Ohio?

Mid-East Ohio Building Department issues commercial plan approvals and performs inspections for regulated work in its Perry County service area89. Commercial applicants submit the building or sign application online with plans, drawings and payment; zoning is handled separately10. For a house, duplex or three-family dwelling, Mid-East Ohio is not the residential authority8. The available official material does not name one residential office that covers all Perry County parcels, so start with the township trustees or municipal office for the property's exact location and ask who has certified residential jurisdiction. The Perry County Health Department is the separate stop for household sewage and private-water permits11124. The County Engineer handles driveway permits only when the connection is on a county road13.

Does Perry County, Ohio have zoning?

Zoning varies across Perry County by township and municipality2. The County Engineer's subdivision process consults the township zoning inspector when a lot split lies in a zoned township, which means buyers need the rule for the parcel's own township rather than a countywide assumption2. We could not confirm a current official list covering every township and municipality, nor a countywide schedule for setbacks, minimum lot size, building height or lot coverage. Ask the applicable township trustees or municipal zoning office for the current zoning map and resolution before choosing a homesite. Dividing land in unincorporated Perry County is separately regulated: proposed subdivisions go to the Perry County Planning Commission, and an unapproved plat cannot be recorded14. Agricultural structures may qualify for a state building-code exemption when they are incident to agricultural land use and are not used in retail trade, but zoning and the actual use still matter15.

How do septic permits work in Perry County, Ohio?

The Perry County Health Department approves individual sewage treatment systems where public or central sewer is unavailable1112. For a new or altered household system, complete the site evaluation first, obtain a design from a registered installer or compliant designer, and use a Perry County registered installer3. The septic installation permit costs $307 and is valid for one year3. After installation and approval, the required as-built packet must be submitted, and the department performs an inspection 12 months after the system is finalized316. Only 7.4% of Perry County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early purchase contingency rather than assuming a conventional system will fit17. Where an accessible public or regional sanitary sewer is available, state rules can require connection instead of an onsite system18.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Perry County, Ohio?

We could not confirm one Perry County rule that authorizes long-term RV living or tiny-home occupancy on every private parcel. Zoning varies by township and municipality, so ask the local zoning authority whether the proposed use is allowed in the parcel's district and whether setbacks or dwelling standards apply2. Ohio's campground rules cover licensed recreational-vehicle parks and temporary park-camps, but those rules do not answer whether one owner may occupy one RV on ordinary private land19. Likewise, the reviewed sources did not establish a countywide minimum dwelling size. A permanently sited manufactured home is protected where a single-family home is permitted, subject to uniform installation standards and parcel-specific zoning, floodplain, septic and other approvals2021. Treat a tiny home on wheels as an unresolved occupancy question until the township or municipality answers in writing.

Building a home in Perry County, Ohio: steps in order

  1. Identify whether the parcel is inside a village or in an unincorporated township, then ask that local government which zoning and residential building authority applies2.
  1. Confirm floodplain status; proposed construction and manufactured-home placement in mapped Zone A require floodplain review under the cited conditions7.
  1. Arrange the Health Department's site evaluation and septic design before applying for the household sewage permit3.
  1. Apply to the Health Department before developing or altering a private well4.
  1. If access enters a county road, obtain the County Engineer's driveway permit; ask the appropriate road authority about state or township roads136.
  1. Obtain every permit identified for the parcel before work begins. Mid-East Ohio handles regulated commercial work, not one-, two- or three-family homes8.

What should you check before buying land in Perry County?

Start with septic feasibility because only 7.4% of Perry County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field17. Ask the Health Department whether public sewer is available and, if not, whether a workable household system can be designed for the intended homesite12. Confirm the township or municipality, current zoning, residential permit authority, legal access and mapped flood hazard before closing27. A new private water system requires a Health Department permit; the published fee is $490, while an alteration is $1904. A county-road driveway also needs its own County Engineer permit13. About 61.6% of Perry County is wooded and 55.3% has a slope of 15% or less, so clearing, grade and driveway layout can materially affect the usable building envelope2223. The median property-tax bill is about $1,656 a year24.

Watch-outs

  • Mid-East Ohio's Perry County service is commercial only; its lack of authority over one-, two- or three-family homes does not by itself prove that a residential project needs no approval5.
  • The Jackson Township zoning proposal cited in earlier material was defeated, and we could not confirm a complete current township-by-township zoning list; ask the parcel's township or municipality directly2.
  • Perry County's conventional septic outlook is difficult: only 7.4% of soils are rated without severe drain-field limitations17.

Sources

  1. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  2. Minor Subdivision / Lot Split Application, quoted and re-checked
  3. 2026 Home Sewage Installation Requirements & Procedures, quoted and re-checked
  4. Private Water Systems | Perry County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  5. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  6. Forms – Perry County Engineer, quoted and re-checked
  7. Rule 1501:22-1-04 | Floodplain management criteria, quoted and re-checked
  8. Mid-East Ohio Building Department (muskingumcountyoh.gov)
  9. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  10. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  11. Perry County Health Department (health.perrycountyohio.gov)
  12. Sewage Programs | Perry County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  13. Perry County Engineer's Office (perrycountyengineer.com)
  14. Perry County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  15. Section 3781.06 | Public buildings to be safe and sanitary - definitions, quoted and re-checked
  16. 2026 Home Sewage Installation Requirements & Procedures, quoted and re-checked
  17. Share of soils without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field (USDA SSURGO): Bolthole Index county data
  18. Rule 3745-42-07 | Best available technology for connection into sanitary sewers and centralized collection and treatment (Ohio statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. Section 3729.05 | Annual license required - inspection - proof of fire safety and code compliance, quoted and re-checked
  20. Section 519.212 | Location of permanently sited manufactured home, quoted and re-checked
  21. Chapter 4781-6 | Manufactured Home Installation Standards, quoted and re-checked
  22. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  23. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  24. 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

Perry County in Ohio

70
County map
Perry County highlighted among the Ohio counties · colored by Index score

How Perry County scores

Seclusion39100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency69100% ev.
Admin Boringness8190% ev.
Durability84100% ev.
Property Autonomy35100% ev.
Carry Cost74100% 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 →

$230kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$6,172Land / acre
42.7"Annual rain
2.1% of yrsSevere drought
3.3 / yr (+3.2)Mid-century 100°F days
11.6 daysMid-century dry spell
1.61" (+9.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.92×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,277Home insurance / yr
0.7% / yrInsurance growth
1.15%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
49,483People within 30 min
3,852,566People within 2 hr
69,214Radius comparison (15 mi)
87.1People / sq mi
8.7%Federal land
55.3%Land at 15% slope or less
7.4%Septic soil without severe limits
17,640 acWorkable land screen
61.6%Wooded land
53.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
51.9°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Perry County

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

Perry County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Commercial and other nonresidential building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department jurisdiction, including Perry County locations identified by that department.

    • The department is certified for commercial building code enforcement only.
    • The department does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • Jurisdictional boundaries and separately certified local authorities may affect applicability.
    “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Perry County within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department service region, excluding one-, two-, and three-family dwellings/homes.
      “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County. There are five municipalities in Belmont County that are excluded. Please see the Jurisdiction List for those areas. [...] This department does NOT have authority over one, two, or three family dwellings/homes.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Commercial building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code within Perry County jurisdictions served by the Mid-East Ohio Building Department.

    • The department is state certified for commercial building enforcement.
    • The department does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • The department has no authority over zoning.
    • The page lists Perry County as part of the department's regional jurisdiction; specific municipal exclusions should be checked in the department's jurisdiction list.
    “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. [...] a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Commercial and other nonresidential building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department jurisdiction, including Perry County locations identified by that department.

    • The department is certified for commercial building code enforcement only.
    • The department does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • Separately certified municipal, township, county, or state authorities may have jurisdiction over particular locations or building types.
    “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Perry County within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department service region, excluding one-, two-, and three-family dwellings/homes.
      “The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County. [...] This department does NOT have authority over one, two, or three family dwellings/homes.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Land-use zoning across Perry County, aggregated from township-level administration and applicable municipal rules.

    • The official county engineer application requires applicants to obtain a township zoning permit from the applicable township zoning inspector.
    • The source directs applicants to contact the county engineer for a list of zoned townships and zoning inspectors, so zoning coverage varies by township.
    • The cited source does not establish the current zoning status or dimensional standards of every township or municipality.
    • County subdivision, health, sewage, and other applicable rules may still apply.
    “If the application for a minor subdivision is located in a zoned township, the township zoning inspector will be consulted and provide comments.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Home sewage treatment systems in Perry County where public or central sewage works are not provided.

    • Individual sewage treatment systems require approval by the Perry County Health Department.
    • Approved wastewater systems must comply with state regulations.
    • The health department must ensure that nuisances do not endanger Perry County residents.
    “individual sewage treatment systems must be installed with approval by the health department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Home sewage treatment systems and private sewage regulation in Perry County.
      “This program oversees home sewage treatment systems; private water systems;”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New or altered household sewage treatment systems in Perry County, particularly where public or central sewage works are not provided.

    • A site evaluation must be completed before the septic installation permit process.
    • A design plan from a registered installer or compliant designer is required.
    • The permit fee is $307.00.
    • The permit is valid for one year.
    • A Perry County Registered Installer must be used.
    • An operation permit is issued with the septic permit.
    • After installation and approval, an as-built drawing packet complying with OAC 3701-29-10 must be submitted.
    • The system must comply with OAC Chapter 3701-29 and permit conditions.

    septic permit fee: 307 USD · permit validity: 1 year

    “Submit a completed septic permit to install and fee of $307.00 to the Health Department.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Finalized household sewage treatment systems installed under the Perry County Health Department process.

    • The system must first be completed and approved.
    • The 12-month inspection occurs after the system is finalized.

    inspection timing: 12 months after finalization

    “A 12-month inspection will be performed after the system is finalized.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Individual or off-grid sewage treatment systems where public or central sewage works are not provided in Perry County.

    • Individual sewage treatment systems must be installed with health-department approval.
    • Approved systems must comply with state regulations.
    • The health department must prevent nuisances that endanger public health.
    “individual sewage treatment systems must be installed with approval by the health department.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Development and alteration of private water systems, including private wells, in Perry County.

    • The Perry County Health Department oversees the Private Water Program.
    • Systems are inspected for compliance with state laws and rules.
    • Water samples are collected and sent to laboratories for bacteriological analysis.

    new private water system permit fee: 490 USD · private water system alteration fee: 190 USD · private water system sealing fee: 70 USD

    “The Health Department oversees the Private Water Program and issues permits for the development and alteration of private water systems.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    All subdivisions of land in the unincorporated areas of Perry County, including divisions by deeds, land contracts, or leases resulting in creation of a lot, and subdivisions with private streets.

    • Any person or group proposing to divide, sell, exchange, or improve land in the unincorporated area must submit plans to the Perry County Planning Commission.
    • No subdivision plat may be recorded or have validity until approved as prescribed by the regulations.
    • Land may not be transferred or sold by reference to a subdivision plan or plat before approval and recording; a metes-and-bounds description does not exempt the transaction.
    • Violations may constitute a public nuisance and may result in forfeitures of $100 to $1,000 per offense per day; final plat approval may be withheld until fees and fines are paid.
    • A County Recorder who records a contrary plat may forfeit $100 to $500.
    • An owner or agent transferring land outside a municipal corporation before recording may forfeit $100 to $500 for each lot, parcel, or tract sold; metes-and-bounds descriptions do not exempt the seller.
    • The Board of County Commissioners establishes the schedule of fees, charges, expenses, and collection procedure; the schedule is filed with the County Commissioners and may be amended only by the Board.
    • Where a local political subdivision has adopted subdivision regulations, the Perry County Planning Commission may serve in an advisory capacity if requested; a qualifying city exercising extraterritorial jurisdiction may have final plat approval subject to the stated exception for Perry County Engineer provisions.

    violation forfeiture: 100 USD per offense per day (not more than $1,000) · County Recorder forfeiture: 100 USD (not more than $500) · unrecorded transfer forfeiture: 100 USD per lot, parcel, or tract sold (not more than $500)

    “These regulations shall be applicable to all subdivisions of land [...] in the unincorporated areas of Perry County.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New private or commercial driveway installations and approaches providing private access to Perry County highways.

    • The requirement applies to driveway installations on County Roads only.
    • The proposed construction location must be clearly marked for county inspection.
    • The property owner is responsible for installation, backfilling, covering, and maintenance of the culvert pipe.
    • Backfill and cover must use 411 Berm material with a minimum of 4 inches of cover over the pipe.
    • Catch basins are required for every 40 feet of culvert pipe.
    • Driveway surfaces must be paved and graded to prevent mud from being carried onto the road surface.
    • Eight inches of crushed stone is considered minimum construction for residential driveways.
    • The driveway opening must maximize sight distance; if sight distance is inadequate, an acknowledgment must be signed.

    catch-basin spacing: per 40 feet of culvert pipe · minimum pipe cover: >= 4 inches · residential driveway crushed-stone construction: >= 8 inches (The source describes this as considered minimum construction.)

    “Perry County Driveway Permit is required for driveway installations on County Roads only”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Commercial building-code plan approvals and related inspections administered by the Mid-East Ohio Building Department in Perry County.

    • The department is a commercial building department and does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • Fees for special situations are determined by the building official.
    • Payment is due at submittal.
    • The fee schedule states that a 3% Board of Building Standards fee applies.

    Board of Building Standards fee: 3 percent

    “FEE SCHEDULE (to be completed by Applicant) MID-EAST OHIO BUILDING DEPARTMENT [...] FEES FOR SPECIAL SITUATIONS SHALL BE DETERMINED BY THE BUILDING OFFICIAL [...] Board of Building Standards fee - 3%”
  • Permit processPartial

    Commercial building-plan approvals, permits, inspections, and online submission in the Mid-East Ohio Building Department service area within Perry County, including the listed Perry County municipalities and areas under the department's jurisdiction.

    • The published process is for commercial building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code; it does not establish a countywide process for every permit category.
    • The department does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • Applications are submitted online through the Building or Sign Application links, with plans/drawings and payment submitted through the application process.
    • Additional fees may be required and can be paid through the online payment portal.
    • Credit-card payments incur a 3% fee charged by the card carrier.
    • The department has no authority over zoning; zoning requirements may be administered separately.
    • The jurisdiction list identifies Perry County municipalities served by the department and identifies Hemlock and Rendville as municipalities under state jurisdiction.

    credit-card processing fee: 3 percent (charged by the credit card carrier)

    “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County. [...] This department does NOT have authority over one, two, or three family dwellings/homes. [...] Submit your Building or Sign Application by choosing the appropriate application below. There is a link at the end of the application for you to securely submit your payment and plans/drawings.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    There is no countywide zoning; land-use zoning in Perry County is handled at the township level under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 519, and only some townships (e.g., Jackson Township) have adopted zoning resolutions.

    Perry County - Jackson Township Zoning Resolution ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Ohio rules that apply here

  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Residential buildings and structures subject to the Residential Code of Ohio in certified residential building jurisdictions, including new residential buildings and residential alterations or additions.

    • A residential building official must have jurisdiction and issue the approval.
    • A certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion is required before occupancy.
    • Unaffected portions of an existing building may continue to be occupied if the residential building official determines they can be occupied safely until completion of the work.
    • Partial occupancy may be approved if the official determines the space can be safely occupied without endangering life or public welfare.
    • Time-limited occupancy requires no pending violations or orders, inspection and investigation establishing that the use does not endanger public safety and welfare, temporary approval for the alternative purpose, and a certificate stating special conditions and the time limit.
    • Temporary structures intended for use not exceeding 180 days require a certificate of occupancy for temporary structures; extensions may be granted for demonstrated cause.
    • Existing residential buildings may receive a certificate on written request if no violations or orders are pending and prior occupancy is established after inspection and investigation.

    temporary structures maximum occupancy period: <= 180 days (The residential building official may grant extensions for demonstrated cause.)

    “No residential building or structure, in whole or in part, shall be used or occupied until the residential building official has issued an approval in the form of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion in compliance with this section.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Residential buildings or structures governed by the Residential Code of Ohio and within a certified residential building department jurisdiction.
      “No residential building or structure, in whole or in part, shall be used or occupied until the residential building official has issued an approval in the form of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion in compliance with this section.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary camping involving five or more recreational vehicles, dependent recreational vehicles, portable camping units, or combinations thereof on a tract in Perry County and elsewhere in Ohio.

    • The temporary campground definition applies only when the tract is used for no more than twenty-one total days per calendar year.
    • Each period of use may not exceed seven consecutive days or parts thereof.
    • The temporary park-camp must be licensed before operation unless a statutory exemption applies.

    maximum annual temporary campground use: <= 21 days per calendar year · maximum single temporary campground period: <= 7 consecutive days · minimum units for temporary campground definition: >= 5 units (Units may be recreational vehicles, dependent recreational vehicles, portable camping units, or any combination.)

    “twenty-one days per calendar year [...] parking five or more [...] for one or more periods of time that do not exceed seven consecutive days”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    A permanently sited manufactured home in any Ohio township zoning district where a single-family home is permitted.

    • The home must qualify as a permanently sited manufactured home under Ohio law.
    • The township may require compliance with zoning requirements uniformly imposed on all single-family residences in the district.
    • The township may not impose minimum roof-pitch requirements on the permanently sited manufactured home under the cited statutory exception.
    • The rule does not prevent prohibition of travel trailers, park trailers, mobile homes, or manufactured homes that do not qualify as permanently sited manufactured homes in residential districts or zones.
    • Private deed restrictions may prohibit manufactured homes or travel trailers.
    “sections 519.01 to 519.25 of the Revised Code do not confer on any township zoning commission [...] the authority to prohibit or restrict the location”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Installation, use, and occupancy of new manufactured homes on private property or in manufactured home parks in Perry County and elsewhere in Ohio.
      “shall apply to the installation, construction, use and occupancy, and location of every new manufactured home installed in the state on private property”
    • Limited — Occupancy of manufactured homes installed in Ohio and regulated under Chapter 4781 of the Revised Code and implementing rules.
      “Except as provided in paragraph (C) of this rule, no manufactured home shall be occupied until the inspector has issued the inspection seal.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Disposal of sewage where an existing publicly owned or regional sanitary sewer is accessible and available.

    • The sewer connection may not conflict with an areawide waste-treatment plan, approved regional sewage-service and treatment plan, or connection ban.
    • The receiving disposal system must have or be expected to have capacity to collect and treat the sewage.
    • For an existing structure, any part of the structure generating waste must be within 300 feet of the nearest sanitary-sewer right-of-way boundary.
    • For a proposed structure outside a larger common plan, any lot property line must be within 300 feet.
    • For two or more proposed structures, the threshold is 200 feet multiplied by the number of proposed structures, up to 5,000 feet.
    • The director may grant an exemption when technical, financial, environmental, legal, or physical barriers prevent connection and the alternative will not adversely affect human health or the environment.
    • When a sewer later becomes accessible and available, a non-public or non-regional disposal system must generally be abandoned and connection made within three years unless the director authorizes another timeframe.

    existing structure sewer-distance threshold: <= 300 feet (Measured to the nearest boundary of the sanitary-sewer right-of-way.) · proposed structure sewer-distance threshold: <= 300 feet (Measured from any property line of the lot.) · multiple proposed structures threshold: 200 feet multiplied by the number of proposed structures (Maximum distance is 5,000 feet.) · connection deadline after accessibility becomes available: 3 years (Unless an alternative timeframe is authorized by the director.)

    “Connection into existing publicly owned or regional sanitary sewers is required for the disposal of sewage when said sewers are accessible and available.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Buildings or structures incident to agricultural use of the land, and a specific building or structure declared by a county or township zoning inspector to be used in agriculture.

    • The exemption in section 3781.06 applies to buildings or structures incident to agricultural use of the land.
    • The buildings or structures must not be used in the business of retail trade.
    • A building or structure is not considered used in the business of retail trade if fifty per cent or more of gross income from sales of products in the building or structure comes from products produced or raised in a normal crop year on farms owned or operated by the seller.
    • Under section 3781.061, a county zoning inspector under section 303.16 or township zoning inspector under section 519.16 must issue a zoning certificate declaring the specific building or structure is to be used in agriculture for the additional exemption described there.
    • The cited section 3781.06 is effective January 1, 2025; section 3781.061 is effective October 17, 2019.

    retail-sales agricultural-product threshold: >= 50 percent of gross income (Products must be produced or raised in a normal crop year on farms owned or operated by the seller.)

    “issues a zoning certificate that declares a specific building or structure is to be used in agriculture, such building is not subject to sections”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Buildings or structures incident to agricultural use of land in Ohio, including Perry County.
      “incident to the use for agricultural purposes [...] provided those buildings or structures are not used in the business of retail trade.”
    • Conditional — A specific agricultural building or structure in Ohio where the applicable county or township zoning inspector issues the required zoning certificate.
      “issues a zoning certificate that declares a specific building or structure is to be used in agriculture, such building is not subject to [...] 3791.04”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Proposed construction and other development within Zone A on an FHBM or FIRM in Perry County, including placement of manufactured homes.

    • The rule applies when the county or municipal corporation has been notified under National Flood Insurance Program requirements that it contains areas of special flood hazards (A zones), and the applicable map lacks an identified floodway or coastal high hazard area and lacks water-surface-elevation data.
    • The county or municipal corporation must review required federal and state permits, review building sites for flood safety, and apply the listed construction, utilities, sewage, elevation, watercourse, and manufactured-home requirements.
    • The Perry County EMA page states that EMA houses floodplain management and identifies Jessica Dodson-Pierce as Floodplain Administrator, appointed January 8, 2024.
    “When a county or municipal corporation has been notified, pursuant to the requirements of the national flood insurance program, that it contains areas of special flood hazards (A zones) by the publication of a FHBM or FIRM, but where such maps neither identify a floodway or coastal high hazard area, nor contain water surface elevation data, the county or municipal corporation shall: (1) Require permits for all proposed construction and other developments including the placement of manufactured homes, within Zone A on the FHBM or FIRM;”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Occupancy or parking of recreational vehicles in recreational vehicle parks, recreation camps, combined park-camps, or temporary park-camps in Perry County and elsewhere in Ohio.

    • The park or camp must be licensed before operation.
    • A person who neither intends to receive nor receives anything of value from the use or related goods or services is exempt from the license requirement.
    • A separate license is required for each recreational vehicle park, recreation camp, combined park-camp, or temporary park-camp.
    • A temporary park-camp license is valid for no longer than seven consecutive days.
    • Operating a temporary park-camp on a tract for more than twenty-one days or parts thereof in a calendar year requires a recreational vehicle park, recreation camp, or combined park-camp license.
    • The statute also provides exemptions for qualifying county or state fairs, motorsports parks, historical reenactment sites, and equestrian event facilities.

    temporary park-camp license duration: <= 7 consecutive days (A tract operated for more than 21 days or parts thereof in a calendar year requires a different campground license.) · temporary park-camp annual use threshold: > 21 days per calendar year (Triggers recreational vehicle park, recreation camp, or combined park-camp licensing.)

    “No recreational vehicle park, recreation camp, combined park-camp, or temporary park-camp shall be maintained or operated in this state without a license.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary park-camps meeting Ohio's statutory definition and campground licensing requirements.
      “No tract of land shall be permitted for use as a temporary campground for more than twenty-one days in a calendar year.”
    • Limited — Occupancy and placement of recreational vehicles in Ohio-licensed campgrounds and temporary campgrounds.
      “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;”
    • 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”

Still unanswered

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

  • Owner-builder exemption — Owner-builders performing residential construction in Perry County.
  • Zoning districts — Zoning districts applicable across Perry County, Ohio.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size requirements in unincorporated Perry County, Ohio.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size requirements in unincorporated Perry County, Ohio.
  • Setbacks — Building setback requirements in unincorporated Perry County, Ohio.
6 more unanswered
  • Lot coverage
  • Building height
  • Living in an RV
  • Tiny homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

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

Living off-grid in Perry County, Ohio

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

Perry County scores 70/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a durable current and mid-century hazard profile and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop and about 49,483 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Perry 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 Perry County Health Department (General Health District). 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.

How much does land cost in Perry County, Ohio?

Land in Perry County runs about $6,172 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Perry County?

Perry County gets about 42.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.1% of years.

How remote is Perry County?

A representative private-land location has about 49,483 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,852,566 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 Perry County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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How Perry compares in Ohio

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