Washington County, OH: No Zoning, Owner-Builder Allowed

Building permits for covered residential work in Washington County, Ohio come from the Southeast Ohio Building Department¹. Zoning is set locally by the township, city or village that governs the parcel, not by a single countywide rule². Septic permits and installation inspections come from the Washington County Health Department, whichever township or city the parcel is in³.

At a glance

Building permit: Required for covered work through the Southeast Ohio Building Department¹
Zoning: Varies by township, city or village²
Septic permit: Required through the Washington County Health Department³
Owner-builder: Owners may build their own home, but plan approval and inspections still apply⁴
Building inspections: Required according to the project and approved plans⁵
Manufactured home: Occupancy requires a state inspection seal⁶
Private well: Board-of-health permit required before drilling⁷
Property tax: About 1.0% effective rate; median bill about $1,665 per year⁸

Who to call

Building permits

Southeast Ohio Building Department (Washington County)

Building plan review, permits and inspections for Washington County

740-374-4185

340 Muskingum Drive, Marietta, OH 45750

Health department

Washington County Health Department (Environmental Health / Sewage Program)

Permits and inspects qualifying residential and commercial sewage treatment systems in Washington County

740-374-2782

healthadmin@wcgov.org

340 Muskingum Drive, Suite B, Marietta, OH 45750

One more officePlanning & zoning

Planning & zoning

Washington County Planning Commission

Subdivision approval and rights-of-way for access across private property

740-373-6623

223 Putnam Street, Marietta, OH 45750

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

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

Washington County, Ohio requires a residential permit for covered construction before work starts.

Washington County, Ohio requires a residential permit for covered construction before work starts¹. Permits are required for listed work including additions, garages or carports, finished basements, structural alterations and accessory buildings over 200 square feet¹. Listed ordinary repairs and residential sheds of 200 square feet or less do not require a permit, but the work still must comply with code¹. Washington County projects in the Southeast Ohio Building Department's jurisdiction use Ohio's adopted residential and commercial codes⁹. The published residential schedule lists a $125 structural processing fee plus $10 per 100 square feet, with a 1% state surcharge; confirm the current total for the project before applying¹⁰.

Who issues building permits and septic permits in Washington County, Ohio?

Washington County routes building permits, septic permits and subdivision approval to three separate offices.

Washington County routes building permits, septic permits and subdivision approval to three separate offices^3,11,12. The Southeast Ohio Building Department is at 340 Muskingum Drive, Marietta, OH 45750, phone 740-374-4185, and accepts electronic drawings through Dropbox^11,13. Separate applications are required for each dwelling unit, building or structure, and most permits have a stated turnaround of 1 to 14 days with a 30-day maximum¹⁰. The Washington County Health Department is at 340 Muskingum Drive, Suite B, Marietta, OH 45750, phone 740-374-2782, email healthadmin@wcgov.org³. The Planning Commission is at 223 Putnam Street, Marietta, OH 45750, phone 740-373-6623¹².

Does Washington County have zoning?

Zoning in Washington County varies by local jurisdiction: Marietta regulates zoning inside the city, properties outside Marietta go to the applicable township trustees, and properties in another city or village go to that municipality². We could not confirm a countywide zoning resolution, so ask the authority governing the parcel about minimum home size, lot coverage, building height and allowed uses². Zoning approval from a township, city or village does not replace the county septic permit or the Southeast Ohio Building Department permit, which are separate approvals^1,3. Subdivision is a separate county review in unincorporated Washington County¹². For single- or two-family lots in a subdivision where no county or township zoning resolution applies, county tables set minimum lot area at 9,450 or 20,000 square feet depending on water and sewer availability, with front setbacks of 35 feet on arterial streets and 30 feet on collector, local or cul-de-sac streets¹⁴.

How do septic permits work in Washington County, Ohio?

The Washington County Health Department permits and inspects residential sewage systems and commercial systems with flows of 1,000 gallons per day or less.

The Washington County Health Department permits and inspects residential sewage systems and commercial systems with flows of 1,000 gallons per day or less³. The stated process includes an application, plat or survey map, fee, soil survey and Permit To Install³. A registered installer leaves the system uncovered until a county Environmental Health Specialist performs the cover-up inspection; the Health Department issues the final permit after installation³. A homeowner may self-install only after passing the STS exam and giving the certificate to the Health Department before work begins³. The Health Department does not require a pre-sale septic inspection, although a buyer or lender may require one³. Only about 1.1% of Washington County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so settle septic feasibility before choosing a homesite⁸.

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

We could not confirm a Washington County rule that generally allows long-term RV living or tiny-home occupancy on private land.

We could not confirm a Washington County rule that generally allows long-term RV living or tiny-home occupancy on private land. The applicable zoning authority is the township, city or village governing the parcel, so ask that office about the proposed structure and residential use before buying or building². A manufactured home generally cannot be occupied in Ohio until the state inspector issues the inspection seal⁶. Ohio's campground rules govern licensed campgrounds but do not answer residential RV use on a private parcel¹⁵. For land in Marietta, contact the City Engineering Department; elsewhere, contact the relevant township trustees, city or village².

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

Identify the township, city or village governing the parcel and ask that authority about zoning before designing the home.

Identify the township, city or village governing the parcel and ask that authority about zoning before designing the home².
If the project creates subdivision lots, secure Planning Commission approval and confirm access requirements^12,14.
Begin the sewage application, soil survey and Permit To Install process with the Washington County Health Department³.
Submit a separate building application for each dwelling unit, building or structure to the Southeast Ohio Building Department¹⁰.
Keep approved documents at the jobsite and schedule the project-specific inspections listed with plan approval^10,16.
Complete every required inspection before the final certificate of occupancy is issued for an occupied building¹⁰.

What to check before you buy land in Washington County, Ohio

Only about 1.1% of Washington County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so obtain the soil survey and settle septic feasibility before treating a homesite as buildable^3,8. About 43.6% of Washington County land has a slope of 15% or less, and about 69.9% is wooded, making driveway grade, clearing and grading parcel-specific cost questions⁸. Confirm legal access and the governing township or municipality before closing^2,12. Development in the unincorporated floodplain requires county review administered by Washington County Soil & Water¹⁷. Washington County's effective property-tax rate is about 1.0%, its median annual bill is about $1,665, and farmland value is about $4,671 per acre⁸.

Watch-outs

Washington County zoning varies by location; confirm the rules with the township, city or village governing the parcel².
A manufactured home cannot be legally occupied in Ohio until the state inspector issues the inspection seal⁶.
An agricultural building is exempt from specified building-code sections only when the county or township zoning inspector issues a certificate declaring its agricultural use; other requirements may still apply¹⁸.
A septic system must remain uncovered until the Environmental Health Specialist completes the cover-up inspection³.

Sources

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

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

Off-grid gear

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Washington County requires a building permit for a home.

Rule	Washington County	Morgan County	Noble County	Athens County	Monroe County	Meigs County	Guernsey County
Building permit	Required	Not required	Limited	Limited	Not required	Limited	Not required
County zoning	No	No	No	No	Not published	No	No
Septic permits	County Health Dept.	County Health Dept.	Cambridge-Guernsey County Health Dept.	Athens City-County Health Dept.	County Health Dept.	County Health Dept.	Cambridge-Guernsey County Health Dept.

Cities and towns in Washington County

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

Not yet covered: Adams Township · Aurelius Township · Barlow Township · Belpre Township · Village of Beverly · Decatur Township · Dunham Township · Fairfield Township · Fearing Township · Grandview Township · Independence Township · Lawrence Township · Liberty Township · Village of Lowell · Village of Lower Salem · Ludlow Township · Village of Macksburg · Marietta Township · Village of Matamoras (New Matamoras) · Muskingum Township · Newport Township · Palmer Township · Salem Township · Warren Township · Waterford Township · Watertown Township · Wesley Township

Answers from the rulebook for Washington County

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

Washington County rules

Building permitRequired
Residential construction, alterations, additions, and listed regulated work in the SEOBD jurisdiction in Washington County.
- Residential projects include one-family and two-family dwellings and townhouses; apartment buildings, condominiums, and similar buildings are treated as commercial projects.
- A permit is always required for listed work, including additions, garages or carports, finishing basements, accessory buildings over 200 square feet, and other listed work.
- Work begun before permit issuance incurs a double permit fee under the Washington County Fee Structure Resolution.
accessory building permit threshold: > 200 square feet (Residential accessory buildings of 200 square feet or less are listed as not requiring permits.) · deck elevation permit threshold: >= 16.5 inches above finished grade
“A permit is always required for any of the following work: Porches or Decks (where the floor is 16.5 inches or more above the finished grade) Additions Garages or Carports Finishing a Basement Accessory Buildings (Sheds) (greater than 200 square feet in area)”
Do I Need a Residential Permit? ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — Residential and other listed projects in Washington County within the Southeast Ohio Building Department jurisdiction
  “A permit is always required for any of the following work:”
  Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Required — Residential and other covered construction projects served by SEOBD in Washington County.
  “A permit is always required for any of the following work:”
  Do I Need a Residential Permit? ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
Building code adoptedAdopted
Residential and commercial construction within the Southeast Ohio Building Department jurisdiction serving Washington County
- The listed residential code is for one-, two-, and three-family dwellings.
- The current-code PDF states it was updated 2024-05-06; that update date is not treated as an effective date.
“Residential Codes 2019 RCO Residential Code of Ohio for 1, 2 and 3 Family Dwellings”
Building Department ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
InspectionsRequired
Building-plan approvals in the SEOBD jurisdiction in Washington County.
- The inspection list is provided when plan approval is issued.
- Inspections are performed in part or in whole depending on the project and approved construction documents.
- Residential checklist items include lot-line marking, excavation, foundation, slab and under-floor, and lowest-floor-elevation inspections.
“A list of inspection(s) shall be provided at the time the plan approval is issued per RCO 108.2. The list indicates which inspections are required for the project and the items an inspector should be verifying at a minimum to ensure work constructed is in compliance with the Approved construction documents. The following are those inspections listed in Chapter 1 that must occur and be included on the list for the project.”
Required Inspections Check List and Guide for Inspector ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — Projects receiving plan approval under the Residential Code of Ohio in the Southeast Ohio Building Department jurisdiction
  “A list of inspection(s) shall be provided at the time the plan approval is issued per RCO 108.2. The list indicates which inspections are required for the project and the items an inspector should be verifying at a minimum to ensure work constructed is in compliance with the Approved construction documents.”
  Required Inspections Check List and Guide for Inspector ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Required — Building inspections for projects requiring plan approval in the Southeast Ohio Building Department service area.
  “The list indicates which inspections are required for the project”
  Required Inspections Check List and Guide for Inspector ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
Certificate of occupancyLimited
Occupied buildings after completion of required building inspections in the SEOBD jurisdiction.
- All inspections must be obtained before issuance.
- The source specifically states issuance for occupied buildings; it does not establish a universal C-of-O requirement for every structure.
“Once all inspections have been obtained a final Certificate of Occupancy will be issued for occupied buildings.”
Application for Residential Building Plan Approval ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
Local zoningVaries (with conditions)
Countywide aggregate of local zoning: the applicable zoning authority depends on whether property is in Marietta, outside Marietta in a township, or in another city or village.
- The county page states that Marietta zoning is regulated by the City of Marietta Engineering Department.
- For property outside the City of Marietta, the page directs the property owner to the township trustees of the township where the property is located.
- For property in a city or village, the page directs the property owner to that city or village for zoning information.
- This claim aggregates township and municipal zoning and does not assert that Washington County administers each local ordinance.
“The City of Marietta, Engineering Department is responsible for regulating the City of Marietta Zoning Ordinances. If your property is located outside the City of Marietta, you should contact the township trustees of the township in which your property is located. If you are located in a City or Village, you must contact that city or village for zoning information.”
Zoning Information ↗Re-checked Oct 7, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Washington County; zoning authority varies by municipality, village, and township.
  “The City of Marietta, Engineering Department is responsible for regulating the City of Marietta Zoning Ordinances. If your property is located outside the City of Marietta, you should contact the township trustees of the township in which your property is located. If you are located in a City or Village, you must contact that city or village for zoning information.”
  Zoning Information ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
- Varies (with conditions) — County aggregate of zoning administered by municipalities and townships within Washington County, Ohio; this does not state that Washington County itself administers each local zoning ordinance.
  “The City of Marietta, Engineering Department is responsible for regulating the City of Marietta Zoning Ordinances. If your property is located outside the City of Marietta, you should contact the township trustees of the township in which your property is located. If you are located in a City or Village, you must contact that city or village for zoning information.”
  Zoning Information | Washington County, OH - Official Website ↗Re-checked Nov 13, 2026
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Residential subdivisions in unincorporated Washington County where no county or township zoning resolution is in effect; Table 1's single- or two-family rows.
- The regulations apply to subdivisions located in the unincorporated area of Washington County.
- Where a county or township zoning resolution is in effect, the subdivision must meet that zoning resolution as well as the county subdivision regulations.
- For single- or two-family development, Table 1 provides different lot areas and widths based on public-water and central-sewage-treatment availability.
- Lot area does not include right-of-way.
- Lot areas may increase on recommendation of the County Health Department; for slope areas with average slope 15 percent or greater, hillside regulations apply.
- If soil conditions may impair proper operation of wells and septic tanks, the Planning Commission may increase lot sizes or deny subdivision approval upon Health Department recommendation.
single-or-two-family minimum lot area with public water and no central sewage: 20000 square feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family minimum lot area without public water and with central sewage: 20000 square feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family minimum lot area with public water and central sewage: 9450 square feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family minimum lot area without public water and without central sewage: 20000 square feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family minimum lot width with public water and no central sewage: 90 feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family minimum lot width without public water and with central sewage: 80 feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family minimum lot width with public water and central sewage: 70 feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family minimum lot width without public water and without central sewage: 90 feet (Table 1)
“Where a county or township zoning resolution is not in effect, the minimum lot size, width and frontage shall be as specified in Table 1.”
Washington County Planning Commission Regulations ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Specified — Subdivisions of land in the unincorporated area of Washington County where a county or township zoning resolution is not in effect.
  “Single or Two Families [...] 20,000 sf 20,000 sf 9,450 sf 20,000 sf”
  Washington County Subdivision Regulations ↗Re-checked Oct 7, 2026
SetbacksSpecified
Residential subdivisions in unincorporated Washington County where no county or township zoning resolution is in effect; Table 1's single- or two-family rows.
- The regulations apply to subdivisions located in the unincorporated area of Washington County.
- Where a county or township zoning resolution is in effect, the subdivision must meet that zoning resolution as well as the county subdivision regulations.
- The table varies by public-water availability, central-sewage-treatment availability, and street classification.
- The stated setbacks are measured from the street right-of-way line.
- Corner lots must observe the minimum front-yard setback from both streets.
- Lot areas may increase on recommendation of the County Health Department; for slope areas with average slope 15 percent or greater, hillside regulations apply.
- If soil conditions may impair proper operation of wells and septic tanks, the Planning Commission may increase lot sizes or deny subdivision approval upon Health Department recommendation.
single-or-two-family front setback on arterial street: 35 feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family front setback on collector street: 30 feet (Table 1) · single-or-two-family front setback on local or cul-de-sac street: 30 feet (Table 1)
“Minimum Front Setback Requirements Development (feet from street roght-of-way line) type Public Water Available Central Sewage Treatment Available Minimum Lot Width (feet) Lot Area (per family or business) Arterial Street Collector Street Local and Cul-de-Sac Single or Two Families Yes No Yes No No Yes Yes No 90 80 70 90 20,000 sf 20,000 sf 9,450 sf 20,000 sf 35 35 35 35 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30”
Washington County Planning Commission Regulations ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Specified — Minimum front setbacks for subdivisions in unincorporated Washington County where Table 1 of the county subdivision regulations applies.
  “Arterial Street Collector Street Local and Cul-de-Sac [...] 35 [...] 30 [...] 30”
  Washington County Subdivision Regulations ↗Re-checked Oct 7, 2026
Who permits septicCounty
Residential and commercial sewage treatment systems with flow of 1,000 gallons per day or less in Washington County.
- The Washington County Health Department permits and inspects installation.
- A Permit To Install is issued before installation proceeds.
- Registered installers are required unless the homeowner qualifies for self-installation after passing the STS exam and supplying the certificate before work.
covered flow: <= 1000 gallons per day or less
“We permit and inspect the installation of residential and commercial (1000 gallons a day or less flow) sewage treatment systems within Washington County.”
Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- County — Residential and commercial sewage treatment systems with flow of 1,000 gallons per day or less within Washington County
  “We permit and inspect the installation of residential and commercial (1000 gallons a day or less flow) sewage treatment systems within Washington County.”
  Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- County (with conditions) — Residential and commercial sewage treatment systems with flow of 1,000 gallons per day or less within Washington County.
  “We permit and inspect the installation of residential and commercial (1000 gallons a day or less flow) sewage treatment systems within Washington County.”
  Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Installation of residential and commercial sewage treatment systems with flow of 1,000 gallons per day or less.
- Permit application, plat or survey map, fee, soil survey, Permit To Install, cover-up inspection, and final permit are part of the stated process.
- A registered installer must install the system but may not perform the cover-up.
- Self-installation requires an STS Exam certificate before work begins.
maximum flow: <= 1000 gallons per day
“Fill out the permit application (plat or survey map) and pay the fee”
Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Installation of covered residential and commercial sewage treatment systems in Washington County.
  “Fill out the permit application (plat or survey map) and pay the fee Schedule a soil survey with the Environmental Health Specialist Environmental Health Specialist conducts on-site soil survey Environmental Health Specialist designs a system based on soil survey or you choose your own contractor. Permit To Install (PTI) is issued”
  Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
Septic inspectionRequired
Installation of sewage treatment systems in Washington County.
- The registered installer installs the system but does not cover it.
- The Environmental Health Specialist performs the cover-up inspection before the system is covered.
- The Health Department may conduct periodic inspections and may charge a service fee.
“Registered Installer installs septic system (but NOT cover-up) Environmental Health Specialist performs cover-up inspection”
Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — Installation of covered sewage treatment systems in Washington County.
  “Registered Installer installs septic system (but NOT cover-up) Environmental Health Specialist performs cover-up inspection Registered Installer covers system up WCHD issues the final permit”
  Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
- Not required — Inspection of household sewage treatment systems before sale of a home or property.
  “We also inspect household sewage treatment systems on homes or properties that are being sold. NOTE: It is not required by the Health Department that a system be inspected prior to a property being sold. It may be required by the buyer and/or lending agency.”
  Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
- Required — Installation of covered residential and commercial sewage treatment systems and county O&M-program systems.
  “Environmental Health Specialist performs cover-up inspection”
  Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
- Not required — Pre-sale inspection of a household sewage treatment system in Washington County.
  “It is not required by the Health Department that a system be inspected prior to a property being sold.”
  Sewage Program ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision approval and subdivision infrastructure in Washington County.
- Before land is subdivided, the owner or authorized agent must apply for and secure approval.
- The Planning Commission approves subdivisions and may require public improvements, performance guarantees, inspections, fees, and compliance with applicable county or township zoning, health, state, and ODOT rules.
final plat filing deadline: <= 1 year after preliminary-plan approval (Unless an extension is requested and granted in writing.) · final plat filing lead time: >= 20 days before meeting · planning commission action period: 30 days after filing (Unless extended by agreement, withdrawal, or granted delay.)
“Before any land is subdivided the owner of the property, or his authorized agent, shall apply for and secure approval of the proposed subdivision in accordance with the following procedures:”
Planning Commission ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in the unincorporated area of Washington County.
  “The Planning Commission is responsible for the approval of all subdivisions in Washington County, and any right-of-way for access across private property.”
  Planning Commission ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
- Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in the unincorporated area of Washington County, Ohio, including qualifying lot splits, minor subdivisions, major subdivisions, cluster developments, planned unit developments, streets, common open spaces, and utility easements.
  “These Regulations shall be applicable to all subdivisions of land located within the unincorporated area of Washington County.”
  Washington County Subdivision Regulations ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
Driveway accessRequired
Driveways and access points for subdivisions in Washington County.
- A driveway permit or approved-access letter must come from the county engineer, township trustees, or ODOT.
- Proof must be submitted with the final plat, or the plat must require lot owners to obtain permits before development.
- Driveway grade may not exceed 15 percent; side-lot-line spacing is at least 3 feet.
maximum driveway grade: <= 15 percent · minimum driveway distance from side lot line: >= 3 feet
“A driveway permit or letter indicating the access point as approved shall be obtained from the office of the county engineer, township trustees, or Ohio Department of Transportation. Proof of such permit shall be submitted with the final plat, or plat dedication shall include a statement requiring all lot owners to apply for a driveway permit prior to development”
Washington County Planning Commission Regulations ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Rights-of-way for access across private property in Washington County subdivisions
  “The Planning Commission is responsible for the approval of all subdivisions in Washington County, and any right-of-way for access across private property.”
  Planning Commission ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Building in a floodplainRequired
Floodplain development in unincorporated Washington County.
- Washington County Flood Damage Prevention Regulations are administered by Washington County Soil & Water.
- The building department permit page lists floodplain development for the City of Marietta and unincorporated areas of Washington County.
“Floodplain development (City of Marietta & unincorporated areas of Wash Co)”
Floodplain Information ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Building permit and plan-approval process in the SEOBD jurisdiction.
- Separate applications are required for each dwelling unit, building, or structure.
- Approved documents must remain at the jobsite for scheduled inspections.
- Most permits have a stated turnaround of 1 to 14 days, with a 30-day maximum.
- Applications not approved because of code, zoning, floodplain, or changed plans do not receive refunds.
typical turnaround: 1-14 days (30 days maximum)
“A separate application is required for each individual dwelling unit, building or structure. All approved documents from permit issuance or subsequent modifications, must be available at the project jobsite for any scheduled inspection.”
Application for Residential Building Plan Approval ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Partial — Building permit and plan-approval process for Washington County projects handled by the Southeast Ohio Building Department
  “We accept electronic drawings via Dropbox”
  Building Department ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
County-wide zoningAbsent
Washington County has no countywide zoning resolution; the county Planning Commission administers only subdivision regulations, and zoning where it exists is adopted at the township level.
Washington County - Planning Commission ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Ohio rules that apply here

Owner-builder exemptionConditional
Electrical and heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning work performed as contracting within an Ohio county; the statute authorizes, but does not itself impose, county licensing rules.
- A board of county commissioners may adopt licensing rules by resolution for electrical and HVAC contractors not required to hold a valid and unexpired Chapter 4740 license.
- County rules may be enforced in unincorporated areas and in municipalities that contract with the county for enforcement.
- A county rule may require examinations, technical-skill demonstrations, fees, and additional licensing requirements.
- A county board may accept a valid and unexpired Chapter 4740 license for construction, replacement, maintenance, or repair of one-, two-, or three-family dwellings or incidental accessory structures.
- The statute does not establish a statewide owner-builder electrical or HVAC contractor-license exemption; county and municipal rules must be checked for the specific location.
“Each board of county commissioners may adopt, by resolution, rules establishing standards and providing for the licensing of electrical and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning contractors who are not required to hold a valid and unexpired license pursuant to Chapter 4740. of the Revised Code.”
Section 3781.102 | Extending building department certifications ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Conditional — An owner-builder constructing, erecting, altering, or equipping a building covered by Ohio Revised Code section 3781.06, including residential buildings, where a certified municipal, township, or county building department has jurisdiction.
  “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.”
  Section 3791.04 | Submission of plan - approvals - prohibition - fine ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- Conditional — An owner performing contractor-regulated construction, improvement, or renovation on the owner's own primary residential building in Ohio.
  “(F) "Construction project" means a construction project involving a building or structure subject to Chapter 3781. of the Revised Code and the rules adopted under that chapter, but not an industrialized unit or a residential building as defined in section 3781.06 of the Revised Code.”
  Section 4740.01 - Ohio Revised Code | Ohio Laws ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)
Township zoning regulation of height for agricultural buildings or structures on lots greater than one acre but not greater than five acres in qualifying platted subdivisions or qualifying areas of fifteen or more contiguous lots.
- The local regulation must arise under a township zoning resolution or amendment.
- The subdivision or area must meet the statutory qualification in section 519.21(B).
- The statute does not provide a statewide numeric height limit.
- Township zoning may not regulate agriculture, agricultural buildings or structures, or dairying and animal and poultry husbandry on lots greater than five acres under division (B).
lot size lower threshold: > 1 acre · lot size upper threshold: <= 5 acres
“Buildings or structures incident to the use of land for agricultural purposes [...] height;”
Section 519.21 | Powers not conferred on township zoning commission by chapter ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Camping on your landLimited
Temporary park-camps (tracts used to park five or more recreational vehicles, dependent recreational vehicles or portable camping units for event-type short periods) in Ohio
- A separate license is required for each temporary campground, obtained from the licensor not less than seven days before beginning operation during the calendar year, and only after written approval of the plans for the temporary campground.
- The licensor reviews and approves or disapproves temporary campground plans; it may waive plan submission/review and the location evaluation if the plans were approved less than two years before the proposed opening and the required information has not changed since last licensed.
- Each license is valid for no more than seven consecutive days and cannot be transferred.
- No tract may be used as a temporary campground for more than 21 days in a calendar year; operating more than 21 days requires a license as a recreational vehicle park, recreation camp, or combined park-camp.
- No license is required of a person who neither intends to receive nor receives anything of value from the use of, or sale of goods or services in connection with, the camp.
- Exemptions: county/state fairs and independent agricultural societies for participant units during the fair; motorsports park participant-only areas; historical reenactment sites (seven days total); equestrian event facility participant-only areas.
- Any person subject to the chapter or rules may apply to the director of health for a waiver or variance, which may be granted if the person demonstrates it will not adversely affect public health and safety (ORC 3729.05(i)).
- Plan approval does not exempt a park or camp from local land use and building requirements; development in a 100-year flood plain requires a local floodplain permit (ORC 3729.04).
maximum days per tract per calendar year: <= 21 days (beyond 21 days a campground license applies; no license required if nothing of value is received) · maximum license period: <= 7 consecutive days · license obtained before beginning operation: >= 7 days (plan approval required first, subject to waiver in rule 3701-26-03(G)(1))
“no tract of land shall be permitted for use as a temporary campground for more than twenty-one days in a calendar year.”
Ohio Adm.Code 3701-26-04 Responsibilities of the licensee (effective April 1, 2016) ↗Re-checked Nov 6, 2026
Manufactured homesLimited
Occupancy of manufactured homes installed in Ohio and regulated under Chapter 4781 of the Revised Code and implementing rules.
- A manufactured home generally may not be occupied until the inspector issues the inspection seal.
- The inspection seal must be paid for when the permit is issued.
- A temporary occupancy permit may provide the applicable exception under Rule 4781-7-01(C).
- The home must meet Ohio manufactured-home installation standards; local ordinances and other regulations may also apply to site placement.
“Except as provided in paragraph (C) of this rule, no manufactured home shall be occupied until the inspector has issued the inspection seal.”
Chapter 4781-7 | Manufactured home inspections ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Sewage and human excreta generated within an Ohio dwelling or building that is not served by sanitary sewerage, including household sewage treatment systems, gray-water recycling systems, privies, and composting or incinerating toilet arrangements.
- An STS or GWRS may not be installed, altered, or operated without an approved permit from the applicable board of health.
- All sewage and human excreta generated in a dwelling or building must be conveyed to an approved STS or sanitary sewerage system; all or part of gray water may instead be conveyed to an approved GWRS operated under Rule 3701-29-17.
- A sewage treatment system may not be sited, permitted, or installed where sanitary sewerage is accessible unless otherwise excepted by law; when sewerage becomes accessible, the dwelling or structure must connect and the STS must be abandoned.
- Composting and incinerating toilets may treat toilet waste, but all other sewage from the dwelling or building must discharge to an STS.
- Composting toilets must be certified to ANSI/NSF Standard 41, and incinerating toilets must be certified to NSF Protocol P157, unless the manufacturer obtains director approval under Revised Code section 3718.04.
- Privies are limited to the conditions in Rule 3701-29-18, including no plumbing or drain connections, at least 500 gallons capacity, required isolation distances except for unoccupied buildings, and a vented superstructure minimizing entry of insects, animals, and surface water.
- Local boards of health administer the installation, operation, and alteration approvals and may adopt more-stringent standards subject to state review and approval.
“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.”
Ohio Administrative Code Rule 3701-29-06, General provisions and prohibitions ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Well permitRequired
Construction, alteration, sealing, or decommissioning of private water systems, including private wells and test wells, in Ohio.
- A valid permit must be issued by the board of health before construction, alteration, or sealing, except that a person sealing a well or decommissioning a private water system not being replaced must apply no later than five business days afterward.
- Except where specified exceptions apply, no work may begin until the permit is issued and approved.
- Applications require the applicable permit fee, required information, and a fee for at least one water sample for alteration, conversion, or new construction.
- An application becomes a permit upon validation by the local health district.
- Plans are additionally required for specified systems, including systems serving a building, non-one/two/three-family dwellings, cisterns, springs or ponds, flowing-well areas, drive-point wells, buried pressure tanks, gasoline-powered pumps, continuous disinfection or filtration, and certain point-of-entry treatment systems.
post-sealing/decommissioning application deadline: <= 5 business days (Applies when the well or private water system is not being sealed or decommissioned because it is being replaced.)
“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”
Chapter 3701-28 | Private water systems ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
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.”
Rule 3745-42-07 | Best available technology for connection into sanitary sewers and centralized collection and treatment ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
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”
Section 3781.06 | Public buildings to be safe and sanitary - definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Conditional — Agricultural buildings or structures in Ohio, including Washington County
  “Whenever a county zoning inspector under section 303.16 of the Revised Code, or a township zoning inspector under section 519.16 of the Revised Code, issues a zoning certificate that declares a specific building or structure is to be used in agriculture, such building is not subject to sections 3781.06 to 3781.20, 3781.40, or 3791.04 of the Revised Code.”
  Section 3781.061 | Exemption for building or structure used in agriculture ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Available (with conditions) — Qualifying parcel divisions processed under rules adopted pursuant to Ohio Revised Code section 711.133.
  “Rules adopted under this section shall exempt from the approval requirements of this section parcels of land to be used only for agricultural”
  Section 711.133 | Procedure for approval of qualifying division without plat ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
- Available (with conditions) — Buildings or structures incident to agricultural use of the land in Ohio.
  “incident to the use for agricultural purposes [...] provided those buildings or structures are not used in the business of retail trade.”
  Section 3781.06 | Public buildings to be safe and sanitary - definitions ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionConditional
One-story detached accessory structures to one-, two-, and three-family dwellings within the scope of the Residential Code of Ohio.
- The structure must be one-story and detached.
- The structure must be used as a tool shed, storage shed, playhouse, similar use, or be a playground structure.
- Floor area must not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 square meters).
- Although approval is exempt, the work must comply with all applicable rules of the Ohio Board of Building Standards.
maximum floor area: <= 200 square feet (Applies to one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses.) · maximum floor area: <= 18.58 square meters (Applies to one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses.)
“102.10 Work exempt from approval. Approval shall not be required for the following work; however, this work shall comply with all applicable provisions of the rules of the board: Building: 1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed two hundred square feet (18.58 m²) and playground structures.”
Rule 4101:8-1-01 | Administration ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Construction documents and inspections required to be submitted to the Ohio Division of Industrial Compliance.
- The certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion will not be issued until applicable fees are paid.
- The schedule includes a $275 processing fee for structural, mechanical, electrical, fire alarm, and sprinkler scopes; plan-examination fees vary by scope and area or device count.
- One initial plan review and up to two resubmission plan reviews are included; additional resubmissions cost $100 each.
- Additional inspections cost $150 per inspection; reinspections cost $150.
- Certificates of occupancy or completion cost $65, except existing-building certificates issued under rule 111.4 have no fee.
- The rule was effective January 1, 2019 and was last updated July 14, 2026.
structural processing fee: 275 USD · certificate of occupancy or completion fee: 65 USD (No fee for existing-building certificates issued under rule 111.4)
“The fees for examination and processing of construction documents when required to be submitted to the division of industrial compliance, except medical gas piping systems and temporary structures, shall be in accordance with Table B1.”
Chapter 4101:7-7 | Fees ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Variable (with conditions) — Construction-document submissions and inspections handled by certified municipal, township, or county building departments in Ohio.
  “Fees for construction documents submitted to and inspections made by certified building departments shall be in accordance with the locally adopted fee schedule.”
  Chapter 4101:7-7 | Fees ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Campground & park staysLimited
Roadside camping at designated Ohio state forests along public roads maintained by the division of forestry.
- Permitted only at designated state forests, along public roads maintained by the division of forestry, during certain legally established hunting seasons.
- The chief of the division of forestry must authorize the applicable season.
- Only self-contained camping units meeting Rule 1501:3-3-04 are permitted unless restroom facilities are available.
- Vehicles must be parked sufficiently far off the roadway not to present a hazard and may not block roads, trails, or gated access areas.
- Other restrictions in Rule 1501:3-3-06 apply.
“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.”
Rule 1501:3-3-06 | Camp occupancy ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- 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;”
  Rule 3701-26-04 | Campground requirements ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
- 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.”
  Rule 1501:3-3-01 | Camping permitted in designated areas ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
- Limited — Recreational vehicles and portable camping units placed in licensed campgrounds (recreational vehicle parks, recreation camps, combined park-camps) in Ohio; the statutory definitions apply to tracts with five or more units
  “except as otherwise provided in paragraph (i)(8) of this rule, each recreational vehicle or portable camping unit in a campground shall be placed upon the site so as to provide the following proper distances:”
  Ohio Adm.Code 3701-26-04 Responsibilities of the licensee (effective April 1, 2016) ↗Re-checked Nov 6, 2026
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”
Section 303.02 | County commissioners may regulate building and land use in unincorporated territory ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
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”
Section 307.37 | Adoption of county building code ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- General — Ohio boards of county commissioners adopting and enforcing local residential building regulations in unincorporated county areas, including districts established within those areas, and administering state building codes when certified.
  “The board of county commissioners may adopt local residential building regulations governing residential buildings”
  Section 307.37 | Adoption of county building code ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026

Inside cities and towns in Washington County

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

Permit feesPublished
Residential building-plan approval fees published by the Southeast Ohio Building Department for projects within its service jurisdictions.
- The cited residential application is dated 4/13/2021; the page does not state that date as an effective date.
- Lineal and square-footage figures are rounded up to the next 100 square or lineal feet.
- Fees include a 1% State of Ohio surcharge.
- Other permits may be required in incorporated cities, villages, and counties.
- Up-front fees are not refundable except for Washington County clerical error.
structural processing fee: 125 USD · structural fee: per 10 USD per 100 square feet · mechanical processing fee: 125 USD · mechanical fee: per 10 USD per 100 square feet · electrical/service entrance processing fee: 125 USD · electrical/service entrance fee: per 10 USD per 100 square feet · fire suppression processing fee: 100 USD · fire detection and alarms processing fee: 100 USD · re-roofing fee: 50 USD for 400 square feet or more · siding fee: 50 USD for 400 square feet or more · decks processing fee: 50 USD · decks fee: per 10 USD per 100 square feet · field inspection: 50 USD (Structural/Mechanical/Electrical) · resubmittal fee: per 75 USD per resubmittal · preliminary review: per 75 USD per submittal · permit renewal: 25 USD (One time renewal) · non-compliance fee: 2X permit fee · state surcharge: 1 percent (State of Ohio surcharge)
“F E E S C H E D U L E STRUCTURAL $125.00 Processing Fee $10.00 per 100 Square Feet”
Application for Residential Building Plan Approval ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026

Set by your township or city, not the county

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

Zoning districts
Minimum dwelling size
Lot coverage
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 Washington County, Ohio

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

Washington County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a durable current and mid-century hazard profile. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

How much does land cost in Washington County, Ohio?

Land in Washington County runs about $4,671 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Washington County?

Washington County gets about 44.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.2% of years.

How remote is Washington County?

A representative private-land location has about 38,692 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,945,763 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.

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