Murray County, OK: No Zoning, Limited Building Permits

Unincorporated Murray County, Oklahoma has no confirmed county residential building permit program; state law exempts an unincorporated single-family home from the State Fire Marshal permit requirement^1,2. Murray County has no county zoning ordinance, while Davis administers city zoning and requires building permits for tiny-home and manufactured-home installations^1,3,4. Oklahoma DEQ issues septic authorizations for rural and city properties⁵.

At a glance

Building permit: No county residential permit program found; State Fire Marshal permit not required for an unincorporated single-family home^1,2
Zoning: No county zoning ordinance on unincorporated land; Davis has city zoning^1,3
Septic permits: Oklahoma DEQ authorization and approval required for a new installation or modification⁵
RV living: No county zoning rule limits RV use on unincorporated land; other limits (city, flood, septic) can still apply¹
Tiny home: No county zoning rule on tiny-home occupancy or minimum size in unincorporated Murray County; septic still required^1,5
Owner-builder: No broad county exemption confirmed; state trade exemptions are limited⁶
Domestic well: No state intent-to-drill authorization for a qualifying domestic well⁷

Who to call

Building permits

Murray County Clerk

First local contact to identify any county land-use, floodplain, access or building approval that may apply to an unincorporated parcel

580-622-5622

clerk@murraycountyok.gov

1001 W. Wyandotte Avenue, Sulphur, Oklahoma 73086

Online permits →

Septic permits

Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality

Authorization to Construct, review and inspection for on-site sewage systems in Murray County

405-702-0100

707 N Robinson Oklahoma City, OK, 73102

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 11, 2026.

Do you need a building permit in Murray County, Oklahoma?

Oklahoma gives county building-code and permit authority only to counties above 500,000 people, so we could not confirm a county residential building permit program in unincorporated Murray County; ask the County Clerk to confirm the parcel’s requirements¹. Before ordering plans or starting site work, give the Murray County Clerk the parcel location and ask which local approvals apply⁸. State law does not require a State Fire Marshal permit for a single-family home, duplex, barn, shed or attached carport in an unincorporated county area, although a valid local requirement or another approval may still apply². Oklahoma has adopted statewide minimum residential and commercial construction codes, and local jurisdictions may impose higher standards⁹. A usual farm building used for agricultural purposes has a state-law zoning exemption, and the planning-and-zoning act waives its farm-building permit and fee, but those exemptions do not erase unrelated health, environmental or access requirements¹.

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

For unincorporated Murray County, the County Clerk is the first contact to identify the office responsible for building, land-use, floodplain and county-road questions.

For unincorporated Murray County, the County Clerk is the first contact to identify the office responsible for building, land-use, floodplain and county-road questions⁸. Inside Davis, city building permits are required for the tiny-home and manufactured-home installations covered by its zoning provisions; septic authorization remains with Oklahoma DEQ^4,5. For applicable International Building Code projects outside municipal limits, the State Fire Marshal is the default building-permit authority unless an authorized local office handles review and inspection; unincorporated single-family homes are exempt from that state permit requirement^2,10. State Fire Marshal applications use the OKSFM Accela Citizen Portal, with a stated queue of about 4 to 8 weeks before review begins; inspection requests require at least 7 days’ notice^11,12.

Does Murray County, Oklahoma have zoning?

Unincorporated Murray County, Oklahoma has no county zoning ordinance, so no county zoning rule sets districts, setbacks, lot coverage, building height or minimum dwelling size.

Unincorporated Murray County, Oklahoma has no county zoning ordinance, so no county zoning rule sets districts, setbacks, lot coverage, building height or minimum dwelling size¹. Inside Davis, city zoning applies instead³. The Davis Planning Commission reviews zoning changes and subdivision plats; the Board of Adjustment interprets zoning regulations and hears variances, special exceptions and appeals¹³. Oklahoma DEQ still handles on-site sewage authorization inside Davis⁵. Sulphur publishes a city zoning map, but specific district standards were not confirmed; ask Sulphur City Hall about the address before applying the rural county answer^14,15.

How do septic permits work in Murray County?

Oklahoma DEQ handles on-site sewage systems in Murray County and assigns each Authorization to Construct to a local environmental specialist based on property location.

Oklahoma DEQ handles on-site sewage systems in Murray County and assigns each Authorization to Construct to a local environmental specialist based on property location⁵. Before installing or modifying a system, purchase the authorization and obtain its issuance; DEQ must first review the Report for On-Site Sewage⁵. Alternative systems also need DEQ approval before installation⁵. A new or modified system must be inspected and approved by DEQ, or installed, self-inspected and approved by a certified installer, before operation; certified-installer final inspections must reach DEQ within 15 days of completion⁵. Only 7.7% of Murray County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, making an early site evaluation useful before choosing a house site or septic design¹⁶.

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

Because Murray County, Oklahoma has adopted no county zoning ordinance, no county zoning rule limits RV occupancy, temporary camping, tiny-home occupancy or manufactured-home placement on unincorporated private land¹. Ask the Murray County Clerk which jurisdiction controls the address, then ask that jurisdiction specifically about full-time RV use, temporary occupancy during construction, utility connections, setbacks and minimum dwelling size⁸. A manufactured home has a clearer statewide installation rule: an occupied manufactured home is treated as a permanent installation, and new units must follow federal model installation standards or approved manufacturer instructions¹⁷. Wastewater remains regulated regardless of what form the dwelling takes, because a new or modified on-site sewage system needs Oklahoma DEQ authorization before installation⁵.

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

Confirm the parcel’s jurisdiction and ask the Murray County Clerk which local building, floodplain and access reviews apply; inside Davis, check city zoning and the building-permit requirement for tiny-home or manufactured-home installation.

Confirm the parcel’s jurisdiction and ask the Murray County Clerk which local building, floodplain and access reviews apply; inside Davis, check city zoning and the building-permit requirement for tiny-home or manufactured-home installation^3,4,8.

A single-family home on unincorporated land does not require a State Fire Marshal permit; for other applicable International Building Code projects, confirm the state or authorized local building-permit authority^2,10.

Obtain DEQ’s Authorization to Construct before septic installation or modification, and arrange approval before operation⁵.

Obtain an ODOT Driveway Agreement before work in a state or federal highway right-of-way¹⁸.

Confirm the well’s intended use: qualifying domestic wells do not need OWRB intent-to-drill authorization, while non-domestic uses require authorization before drilling and well-construction standards still apply^7,19.

Build to Oklahoma’s statewide minimum codes and complete inspections required for the project^12,20.

What should you check before buying land in Murray County?

Start with septic feasibility: only 7.7% of Murray County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so an unsuitable site can change the system design and budget.

Start with septic feasibility: only 7.7% of Murray County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so an unsuitable site can change the system design and budget¹⁶. About 74.5% of the land is at a 15% slope or less, but parcel-level grade, drainage and flood exposure still need direct review¹⁶. Murray County averages about 40 inches of precipitation annually and has experienced severe drought in 22.1% of years, making both drainage and water reliability worth checking¹⁶. If a driveway will meet a state highway, price and schedule the ODOT access agreement before closing¹⁸. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.4%, with a median annual bill near $665, while the typical home value is about $176,827¹⁶. Finally, confirm city limits and every unresolved local rule with the Murray County Clerk before assuming a parcel is free of local rules⁸.

Watch-outs

We could not confirm Murray County residential certificates of occupancy, utility-connection requirements or a county-specific floodplain approval process; ask the Murray County Clerk which office handles each for the parcel⁸.
State Fire Marshal plan-review fees apply only when that office is the permitting authority; county or municipal fees were not confirmed¹¹.
A state highway driveway needs an approved ODOT agreement before any work begins in the right-of-way¹⁸.
Owner-builder rules are trade by trade: Oklahoma's electrical and plumbing license exemptions for owners do not waive local permits or inspections where a city requires them⁶.

Sources

20 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 11, 2026

Written October 11, 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 Murray County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Murray County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

Rule	Murray County	Carter County	Garvin County	Johnston County	Pontotoc County	Marshall County	Love County
Building permit	Limited	Not required	Limited	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required
County zoning	No	No	Not published	No	No	No	No
Septic permits	OK DEQ	OK DEQ	OK DEQ	OK DEQ	OK DEQ	OK DEQ	OK DEQ

Answers from the rulebook for Murray County

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

Murray County rules

Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Minimum lot size · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Building height · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Living in an RV · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Camping on your land · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Tiny homes · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Manufactured homes · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.
- Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
- The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
“The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
County-wide zoningAbsent
The previously cited PDF (cms9files.revize.com/murraycounty/.../Zoning Ordinance.pdf) is Murray County, Minnesota's ordinance (33 mentions of Minnesota, none of Oklahoma). Oklahoma counties under 500,000 people have no general county zoning power; Davis and Sulphur zone inside their limits. Corrected 2026-10-10.
Oklahoma Statutes, Title 19 (county zoning authority limited by population) ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Oklahoma rules that apply here

Building permitRequired
Construction in unincorporated Murray County that falls within an International Building Code use or occupancy classification when no local authority requires the permit.
- If a county or city has a current signed agreement authorizing plan reviews and inspections, that local authority may issue the permit instead.
- The State Fire Marshal may require plans and specifications and must apply the state-adopted building code.
- The FAQ's direct requirement is limited to Use and Occupancy Classifications identified in the International Building Code.
“In all geographical areas wherein no building permit is required by local authorities such permit shall be obtained from the State Fire Marshal's Office”
Oklahoma State Fire Marshal Frequently Asked Questions ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — State Fire Marshal permitting for construction or alteration of a single-family dwelling, duplex residential dwelling, barn, or shed, or a carport attached to a single-family or duplex residential dwelling, when located in an unincorporated area of an Oklahoma county.
  “Furthermore, nothing in this subsection shall be construed as requiring a person to obtain a permit from the State Fire Marshal for the construction or alteration of a single-family dwelling, duplex residential dwelling, barn, shed, or carport attached to a single-family dwelling, or duplex residential dwelling when such structure is located in an unincorporated area of a county.”
  Oklahoma Statutes - Title 74, § 74-324.11 ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
Owners, certain lessees, and family or employees performing roofing work on qualifying residential, farm, commercial, or single-family dwelling property in Oklahoma.
- An actual owner of residential or farm property may physically perform roofing services or have family or employees perform them on property owned by the person.
- Owners of commercial properties, including residential rental properties consisting of four dwelling units or less, must act as their own roofing contractor, provide all material supervision themselves, and install roofing materials according to the IBC as adopted by the OUBCC or the manufacturer's installation instructions.
- A lessee of residential property must have the owner's consent and must perform the roofing work personally or with the lessee's own employees, using materials installed according to the IBC as adopted by the OUBCC or the manufacturer's installation instructions.
- An owner building or improving a single-family dwelling residence for the owner's occupancy and not intended for sale or rent must act as the owner's own roofing contractor, provide all material supervision, and install materials according to the IRC or IBC as adopted by the OUBCC or the manufacturer's installation instructions.
- A person working on the person's own property or that of an immediate relative without compensation is listed as exempt.
- Non-exempt roofing contractors must register annually with the CIB; the source states that the application requires the required fee and documentation but does not state an amount.
- This source concerns state roofing registration and does not establish that local building permits or inspections are waived.
residential rental property size: <= 4 dwelling units (The exemption is stated for residential rental properties consisting of four dwelling units or less.)
“An actual owner of residential or farm property who physically performs, or has family or employees perform roofing services on property owned by such person;”
Notice of Required Registration & Endorsement — Roofing Contractor Registration Act ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Available (with conditions) — An individual performing electrical work on the individual's own property or residence in Oklahoma.
  “3. An individual to hold a license before doing electrical work on his own property or residence except as may be required by local ordinances and resolutions.”
  Oklahoma Statutes — Title 59, Professions and Occupations ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- Conditional — A property owner of record or authorized representative performing minor mechanical repairs in Oklahoma.
  “1. A person who is the property owner of record, or his or her authorized representative, when performing minor repair which shall include, but not be limited to, cleaning, adjusting, calibrating and repair of mechanical system parts and the replacement of fuses and room thermostats, and other minor repairs which shall not include any repair which could violate the safe operation of the equipment;”
  Oklahoma Statutes — Title 59, Professions and Occupations ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- Conditional — An individual performing electrical work on the individual's own property or residence under the Oklahoma Electrical License Act.
  “hold a license before doing electrical work on his own property or residence except as may be required by local ordinances and resolutions.”
  Title 59 Electrical License Act ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- Available (with conditions) — An individual performing plumbing work on the individual's property of residence in Oklahoma.
  “The provisions of The Plumbing License Law of 1955 shall not apply to: [...] 6. An individual who performs plumbing work on such individual’s property of residence.”
  Oklahoma Statutes — Title 59, Professions and Occupations ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
Building code adoptedAdopted
Commercial building construction throughout Oklahoma, subject to the OUBCC amendments and lawful requirements of other jurisdictions.
- The adopted code is the 2024 International Building Code as amended and modified by OUBCC rules.
- The 2024 IBC became effective September 14, 2026.
- The statewide code is a minimum standard; other jurisdictions may amend or alter it only pursuant to Oklahoma law and OUBCC administrative rules.
- The International Building Code 2021 Edition was expressly not adopted for any purpose.
- None of the IBC 2024 appendices are included in the statewide minimum code; other jurisdictions may adopt appendices under 59 O.S. § 1000.29.
- All IBC 2024 chapters and provisions, including exceptions, not specifically modified, deleted, moved, or removed by the rules are adopted without modification.
- Chapter 34 is not adopted and is not part of the statewide minimum code.
code edition: International Building Code 2024 (as amended and modified by OUBCC) · effective date: 2026-09-14
“748:20-2-1., 748:20-2-2., 748:20-2-3., and 748:20-2-4., adopt the IBC® 2024 edition, without appendices and establishes the IBC® 2024 edition as the statewide minimum code for commercial construction in the State of Oklahoma.”
2026 748 Chapter 20, Adopted Codes — International Building Code, 2024 Edition ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
5 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Adopted — Statewide minimum residential and commercial construction codes applicable in Oklahoma, including Murray County.
  “2026 09 14 IRC 2026 Permanent Rule | Sep. 14, 2026 | | Adoption of the 2024 Edition of the IRC”
  Codes & Rules ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Adopted (with conditions) — State minimum residential and commercial building codes applicable in Oklahoma, including Murray County.
  “Base model codes have been adopted by reference and amended at the state level.”
  Adopted Building Codes ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
- Adopted — Oklahoma residential and commercial construction, including Murray County, subject to applicable local enforcement and higher local standards.
  “Codes and standards adopted by the Commission shall be the minimum standards for residential and commercial construction in this state.”
  oklahoma.gov ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- Adopted — Minimum building-code standards for residential and commercial construction throughout Oklahoma, including construction subject to local county or municipal enforcement.
  “Base model codes have been adopted by reference and amended at the state level.”
  Oklahoma Statutes, Title 59 — Professions and Occupations ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
- Adopted — Minimum building codes for residential and commercial construction throughout Oklahoma, including construction in unincorporated areas.
  “Codes and standards adopted by the Commission shall be the minimum standards for residential and commercial construction in this state.”
  Adopted Building Codes ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
InspectionsLimited
Projects permitted and inspected by the Oklahoma State Fire Marshal; this includes International Building Code use and occupancy classifications in geographic areas where local authorities do not require a building permit.
- The project must be permitted.
- Inspections test compliance with the permit and applicable codes.
- Inspection requests must allow at least 7 days of advance notice.
- All required permits must be issued and on site before a 50% inspection.
- All permits and addendums, if applicable, must be issued before the 100% inspection.
- Where a jurisdiction has a current agreement authorizing it to conduct plan reviews and inspections, the State Fire Marshal states that an additional state permit is not needed.
inspection request advance notice: >= 7 days · re-inspection fee after failed 100% final inspection: 100 USD per inspection site visit
“All permitted projects are required to be inspected for compliance with the permit and the applicable codes.”
Inspections ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Projects permitted by the Oklahoma State Fire Marshal in unincorporated Murray County.
  “All permitted projects are required to be inspected for compliance with the permit and the applicable codes.”
  Inspections ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
Certificate of occupancyLimited
Certificates of Occupancy issued by the Oklahoma State Fire Marshal for projects within its permitting and inspection process.
- A completed Certificate of Completion – Final Statement of Compliance Form must be on site at final inspection; otherwise the final inspection fails.
- For projects designed and sealed by a registered design professional, the architect or engineer is responsible for completing the form and obtaining required signatures.
- For projects not designed or sealed by a registered design professional, the owner is responsible for completing the form and obtaining required signatures.
- Occupancy or use before furnishing the form when required is expressly forbidden unless and until a satisfactory inspection has been made by the State Fire Marshal or certified representative.
- The State Fire Marshal's process does not establish that every project statewide needs a state-issued certificate; local authorities may administer plan reviews and inspections under current authority-having-jurisdiction agreements.
“A final inspection report and or a Certificate of Occupancy will not be issued without this form being completed in its entirety. If this form is not on-site at the final inspection, the inspection will be FAILED.”
Instructions and Procedures for Final Inspections ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Who permits septicState
Individual and small public on-site sewage treatment systems in Murray County, Oklahoma.
- DEQ assigns the Authorization to Construct to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist based on the property location.
- Alternative systems must be approved by DEQ before installation.
“assigned to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist (ES)”
On-Site Sewage Information ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- State (with conditions) — On-site sewage treatment systems in Murray County.
  “Before installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system, an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ. After the ATC is purchased, it is assigned to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist (ES), based on the location of the property, for review and issuance.”
  On-Site Sewage Information ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
- State — Statewide administration and regulatory oversight of individual and small public on-site sewage treatment systems in Oklahoma.
  “ECLS administers Oklahoma’s on-site sewage treatment program.”
  Environmental Complaints & Local Services ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Installing a new or modifying an existing individual or small public on-site sewage treatment system statewide.
- Before installation or modification, an Authorization to Construct must be purchased and issued by DEQ.
- The Report for On-Site Sewage must be reviewed by DEQ before the Authorization to Construct may be issued.
- Alternative on-site systems must be approved by DEQ before installation.
- Effective November 1, 2025, individuals not certified through DEQ may install only one on-site sewage treatment system per calendar year.
“Before installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system, an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ. After the ATC is purchased, it is assigned to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist (ES), based on the location of the property, for review and issuance. The Report for On-Site Sewage (581) must be reviewed by DEQ before the ATC may be issued.”
On-Site Sewage Treatment ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — Installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system in Murray County.
  “Before installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system, an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ.”
  On-Site Sewage Information ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Required — New or modified on-site sewage treatment systems in Murray County.
  “an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ.”
  On-Site Sewage Information ↗Re-checked Oct 2, 2026
- Required — New or modified individual and small public on-site sewage treatment systems in Murray County, Oklahoma.
  “Before installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system, an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ. After the ATC is purchased, it is assigned to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist (ES), based on the location of the property, for review and issuance. The Report for On-Site Sewage (581) must be reviewed by DEQ before the ATC may be issued.”
  On-Site Sewage Information ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
Septic inspectionRequired
New installations or modifications to on-site sewage systems in Murray County, Oklahoma.
- Inspection and approval must occur before the system may be placed into operation.
- The system may be inspected and approved by DEQ, or installed, self-inspected, and approved by a certified installer.
- Certified-installer final inspections must be submitted to DEQ within 15 days of completion.
final inspection submission deadline: 15 days (Certified-installer final inspections)
“All new installations or modifications to an on-site sewage system must be inspected and approved by DEQ or installed, self-inspected and approved by a certified installer before the system may be placed into operation. Final inspections are documented on DEQ Form 641-576. The information provided must clearly identify all system components, their location on the property, and minimum required separation distances per Chapter 641. Final inspections performed by a certified installer must be submitted to DEQ within 15 days of completion.”
On-Site Sewage Information ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — New installations or modifications of on-site sewage systems in Murray County.
  “All new installations or modifications to an on-site sewage system must be inspected and approved by DEQ or installed, self-inspected and approved by a certified installer before the system may be placed into operation.”
  On-Site Sewage Information ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Required — Construction or operation of a small public sewage treatment system or individual sewage treatment system in Oklahoma.
  “No small public sewage treatment system or individual sewage treatment system shall be constructed or operated unless such system, when constructed, complies with requirements prescribed by the Environmental Quality Board as determined by an inspection performed by the Department of Environmental Quality or a person authorized by the Department.”
  Oklahoma Statutes, Title 27A—Environment and Natural Resources ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
- Not required — An existing individual sewage disposal system before a service connection to a public water supply system in Oklahoma.
  “The Department of Environmental Quality shall not require a departmental inspection of an existing individual sewage disposal system prior to a service connection to a public water supply system.”
  Oklahoma Statutes, Title 27A—Environment and Natural Resources ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)
On-site sewage treatment systems used by Oklahoma homes and businesses where sewage is treated on the property rather than through a centralized sewer system.
- The Report for On-Site Sewage determines which system types are allowed for the property and states minimum dispersal requirements based on residence size or small-public-system daily flow.
- A DEQ Authorization to Construct is required before installing or modifying the system.
- All new installations or modifications require DEQ inspection and approval, or certified-installer self-inspection and approval, before operation.
- Alternative systems require DEQ approval before installation.
- The system design depends on lot size and shape, residence size, and soil-test results.
“determines what types of on-site systems are allowed for the property.”
On-Site Sewage Information ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Well permitRequired
Groundwater wells drilled or used for non-domestic purposes in Oklahoma, including public water supply, industrial, commercial, oil and gas, poultry, medical-marijuana, and irrigation of more than 3 acres.
- A well drilling contractor must obtain OWRB authorization and approval before drilling.
- Authorization will not be issued unless the well location has an active groundwater use permit.
- Groundwater permit applications must be filed before taking or using groundwater and before drilling.
- The applicant must own or lease the land, the land must overlie a fresh groundwater basin or subbasin, the proposed use must be beneficial, and waste by depletion or pollution must not occur.
- Failure to submit an intent-to-drill application when required may result in a penalty of up to $5,000 per day per violation.
irrigation threshold for intent-to-drill authorization: > 3 acres (Irrigation of less than 3 acres is listed as not requiring intent-to-drill authorization.) · application response time: 5 business days approximately (OWRB staff response time stated on the Wells & Licensing page.) · maximum penalty for failure to submit required intent-to-drill application: <= 5000 USD per day per violation
“Any well drilling contractor who intends to drill a groundwater well for non-domestic use must apply for authorization”
Wells & Licensing ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Not required — Domestic groundwater use by an individual or family in Murray County.
  “Use of water for domestic purposes (by an individual or family for households; farm and domestic animals up to the normal grazing capacity of the land; irrigation of garden, orchard, and lawn areas of 3 acres or less; and non-household uses of 5 acre feet or less annually) is exempt from the permit requirement.”
  Water Use Permitting ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Not required — Domestic groundwater wells used for household purposes, livestock up to the land's grazing capacity, and irrigation of less than 3 acres in Murray County, Oklahoma.
  “Intent to drill authorizations are not required for domestic groundwater wells used for household purposes”
  Wells & Licensing ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- Not required — Domestic use of groundwater and domestic groundwater wells used for household purposes, qualifying livestock, or irrigation of less than three acres statewide.
  “A water permit is not required for domestic use of groundwater”
  Apply for a Water Permit ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
- Not required — Domestic groundwater use in Oklahoma, including household purposes, livestock up to the land’s grazing capacity, and irrigation of less than 3 acres.
  “A water permit is not required for domestic use of groundwater”
  Apply for a Water Permit ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Mandatory utility hookupWater (with conditions)
A new customer's connection to an Oklahoma public water supply system.
- The public water supply system must not allow the connection unless the customer has an approved sewage disposal system defined in OAC 252:641 or OAC 252:656.
- This is a condition on a public water supply system allowing a new customer connection; it does not itself require every property to connect to public water.
- The cited rule was amended effective September 15, 2025.
“PWS systems must not allow the connection of a new customer without an approved sewage disposal system, as defined in OAC 252:641 (Individual and Small Public On-Site Sewage Disposal Systems) or OAC 252:656 (Water Pollution Control Construction).”
OAC 252:631, Public Water Supply Operation ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)
Construction of a farm home or other farm building under the Title 19 city-county planning and zoning act.
- The statute states that no fees or permits are required for construction of any farm home or other farm building under this Act.
- The quoted exemption is limited to the construction described in the statute and does not establish that every other state or local approval is waived.
“No fees or permits shall be required for [...] any farm building.”
Oklahoma Statutes, Title 19, Section 19-863.25 ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Available (with conditions) — The zoning power conferred by Oklahoma Title 19 on municipalities and counties, including county unincorporated areas, as applied to usual farm buildings used for agricultural purposes and the planning of agricultural crops.
  “shall not apply to [...] the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes”
  Oklahoma Statutes, Title 19 — Zoning exemptions and farm-building permits ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Residential developments outside Oklahoma municipal corporate limits, including plat approval and recording requirements.
- A person creating or intending to create a residential development outside a city or town must file a plat describing sewage-treatment methods with the Oklahoma Department.
- Department approval must be obtained before recording the plat, offering lots for sale, or beginning construction within the residential development.
- The plat must include water-supply and sewage-treatment information, actual lot sizes, and the location of public water-supply sources within 300 feet.
- The plat must be filed in the county land records after Department approval.
Department approval effective period: 30 days after filing unless specifically rejected earlier · public water-supply search radius: 300 feet
“Approval of the plat shall be obtained prior to recording the plat”
Oklahoma Statutes, Title 27A — Environment and Natural Resources ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Driveway accessLimited
Driveways connecting to Federal or State Highway rights-of-way in Oklahoma.
- An approved Driveway Agreement is required before work on the State Highway right-of-way.
- The application requires an original Driveway Agreement and a sketch or site plan.
- Drainage must be properly disposed of and runoff may not run onto the highway.
- If the driveway is within city limits, the Agreement must be signed or permitted in writing by a city authority.
- No alteration or relocation may be made without prior written permission from ODOT or its authorized representatives.
- The permit expires if the driveway is not constructed within six months after the effective date unless a written extension is requested.
permit expiration period: 6 months (Unless the applicant requests a written time extension from ODOT.)
“Under no circumstances shall the applicant be permitted to do any work on the State Highway right-of-way until an approved copy of the application is in hand.”
Instructions for Driveway Permit Application ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Building in a floodplainLimited
Oklahoma's statewide floodplain-management framework and OWRB coordination of participating communities; the sources do not establish one uniform statewide permit requirement for all private development.
- The OWRB provides guidance and coordination rather than administering every local floodplain regulation.
- Floodplain regulations are developed and enforced by local participating communities in designated flood hazard areas.
- Participation in the National Flood Insurance Program is community-based; local requirements can therefore vary by participating community.
- The Oklahoma Floodplain Management Act was passed in 1980.
- A 2004 amendment requires floodplain administrators to become accredited through the OWRB.
“The Oklahoma Floodplain Management Act, passed in 1980, authorizes communities to develop floodplain regulations, designate flood hazard areas, and establish floodplain boards.”
Floodplain Management ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Construction permits and renewals issued by a state agency, municipality, or other political subdivision for work governed by Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission codes.
- The OUBCC fee is not to exceed $5.00 for issuance and $5.00 for renewal.
- The official FAQ states that current fees are $4.00 per permit.
- The issuing state agency, municipality, or other political subdivision may levy an additional fee up to $0.50 per construction permit or renewal permit.
permit issuance fee: 4 USD (The statutory range is not to exceed $5.00.) · permit renewal fee: 4 USD (The statutory range is not to exceed $5.00.) · additional issuing-jurisdiction fee: <= 0.5 USD (May be levied by the collecting state agency, municipality, or other political subdivision.)
“Currently the fees are set at $4.00 per permit.”
FAQs ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Published (with conditions) — State Fire Marshal building-permit plan review in unincorporated Murray County when the State Fire Marshal is the permitting authority.
  “Fees: $0.20 per square foot, plus $4 OUBCC fee. $104 minimum.”
  Permitting and Plan Review ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
State Fire Marshal permitting and plan review for applicable projects in unincorporated Murray County.
- Applications are submitted through the OKSFM Accela Citizen Portal.
- Paper and email plan-review submissions are not accepted.
- Plans must meet minimum state codes adopted by the OUBCC.
- Fees must be paid before technical review.
- Plans are reviewed first come, first served; stated queue times are approximately four to eight weeks before review begins.
- A permit must be issued before required inspections.
stated plan-review queue: 4 to 8 weeks (before the start of review; actual review depends on project size, complexity, plans, submittals, and staff)
“All projects are reviewed through the OKSFM Accela Citizen Portal.”
Permitting and Plan Review ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Partial — Projects subject to Oklahoma State Fire Marshal building-plan review.
  “All projects are reviewed through the OKSFM Accela Citizen Portal. Plan review is not done over email and paper submittals mailed or dropped off in the office are not accepted.”
  Plan Reviews ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
county zoning authorityLimited
County zoning authority in unincorporated areas under Oklahoma Statutes Title 19, Sections 868.1 through 868.22.
- The authority applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- The zoning authority is for unincorporated areas of the county.
- Existing lawful uses are protected except as otherwise provided by the statute.
- The statute excludes public utilities subject to Corporation Commission or similar state or federal regulation, usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, planting agricultural crops, and extraction of minerals.
- Zoning regulations must address the statutory public-health, safety, welfare, transportation, utilities, public facilities, and land-use purposes.
county population threshold: > 500000 persons (latest Federal Decennial Census)
“population in excess of five hundred thousand (500,000)”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19, Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — County zoning regulations for unincorporated areas under Title 19, §§19-868.1 through 19-868.22.
  “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
- Limited — County planning and zoning through a cooperative city-county planning commission for the unincorporated area of an eligible county.
  “county plan within the unincorporated area”
  Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
county building authorityLimited
County adoption and enforcement of building or fire codes in unincorporated areas under 19 O.S. § 868.17A.
- The authority applies only in unincorporated areas.
- The provision does not apply to counties not subject to 19 O.S. §§ 868.1 through 868.22; those provisions apply only to counties with a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
- Public-utility electric supply and communication lines regulated by the Corporation Commission are excluded.
- The county may prescribe permits, notices, inspection procedures, and reasonable fees sufficient to cover inspection and enforcement expenses.
- Building inspectors must be licensed by Oklahoma.
county population threshold: > 500000 persons (latest Federal Decennial Census) · inspection and enforcement fees: reasonable and sufficient to meet inspection and enforcement expense
“may, by resolution, adopt building codes, fire codes”
Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19, Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — County adoption and enforcement of building and fire codes, including permits and inspections, in unincorporated areas under Title 19, §§19-868.1 through 19-868.22.
  “The board of county commissioners may, by resolution, adopt building codes, fire codes, or both building and fire codes which shall be designed for the purpose of promoting, benefiting, and protecting the public health, safety and welfare of the people of this state. The codes adopted pursuant to this section shall be applicable only in the unincorporated areas of the county. All building materials, equipment, and methods of installation or construction shall be at least the equivalent of that prescribed in any building or fire code adopted by the board of county commissioners in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, and safety. Any codes adopted pursuant to this section shall not apply to the installation and maintenance of electric supply and communication lines of public utilities and public service companies which are regulated by the Corporation Commission. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any area located within any county not subject to the provisions of Section 868.1 through 868.22 of Title 19 of the Oklahoma Statutes. Building inspectors may be employed by a county to enforce building or fire codes. The building inspectors shall be licensed by the State of Oklahoma. The building inspectors shall enforce the provisions of any building or fire code adopted pursuant to this section and shall be authorized to inspect all buildings for the purpose of discharging the duties imposed by this section or by any building or fire code adopted by the board of county commissioners. The board of county commissioners may adopt rules to carry out the inspections to enforce the building or fire codes, may prescribe the necessary permits, notices, and inspection procedures and may set and determine fees. The fees shall be reasonable and shall be sufficient to meet the expense of inspection and enforcement of the building or fire codes.”
  Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19. Counties and County Officers ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026

Inside cities and towns in Murray County

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

Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
Land use and development within the City of Davis, Oklahoma.
- The Davis Planning Commission reviews and recommends action on zoning changes, subdivision plats, rezoning requests, and comprehensive-plan updates.
- The Davis Board of Adjustment applies and interprets city zoning regulations and hears variances, special exceptions, and appeals.
“The Davis Board of Adjustment is a quasi-judicial body that applies and interprets the City of Davis zoning regulations.”
Community Development Services — City of Davis, Oklahoma ↗Re-checked Oct 7, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Present (with conditions) — Land use and development within the City of Davis, Oklahoma.
  “The Davis Board of Adjustment is a quasi-judicial body that applies and interprets the City of Davis zoning regulations.”
  Community Development Services ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
- Present (with conditions) — Land use and development within the City of Sulphur, Oklahoma.
  “Boards and Commissions Planning & Zoning Historic Preservation Commission Sulphur Development Board Board of Adjustment”
  Ordinances — City of Sulphur ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
- Present (with conditions) — Land use and development within the City of Sulphur, Oklahoma.
  “Select a map from the list to download a PDF document. If you have any issues loading the PDF please call City Hall. Zoning Map”
  Minutes — City of Sulphur ↗Re-checked Oct 7, 2026

Still unanswered

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

Short-term rentals — Short-term rentals in Murray County.

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

Water rights & wells in Murray County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Oklahoma’s water agency.

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Oklahoma groundwater is tied to the overlying land rather than allocated by prior appropriation, and 'domestic use' — household use, farm/domestic animals, and irrigation of up to 3 acres of gardens/orchards/lawns — needs no permit at all.

Limit: Domestic use exempt from any permit; non-domestic groundwater allocated by overlying land ownership (default 2 acre-ft/acre/yr)

Oklahoma Water Resources Board — Groundwater Permitting ↗

Arbuckle-Simpson Sensitive Sole Source Groundwater Basinpartial of county
Oklahoma's only designated 'sensitive sole source' groundwater basin; permitted allocation capped far below the statewide default (0.20 acre-ft/acre/yr) to protect spring/stream flow, with a moratorium on out-of-basin municipal permits; domestic use remains exempt.
Oklahoma Water Resources Board — Arbuckle-Simpson Water Use Permitting ↗

Hybrid state (appropriation + riparian). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Oklahoma state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Murray County, Oklahoma

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

Murray County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop.

How much does land cost in Murray County, Oklahoma?

Land in Murray County runs about $2,724 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Murray County?

Murray County gets about 40" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 22.1% of years. On water rights, Murray County lies in the Arbuckle-Simpson Sensitive Sole Source Groundwater Basin — Oklahoma's only designated 'sensitive sole source' groundwater basin; permitted allocation capped far below the statewide default (0.20 acre-ft/acre/yr) to protect spring/stream flow, with a moratorium on out-of-basin municipal permits; domestic use remains exempt..

How remote is Murray County?

A representative private-land location has about 7,073 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,640,958 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 Murray County, Oklahoma