Carroll County, TN: No Building Permit

Unincorporated Carroll County, Tennessee generally does not require a state residential building permit for a one- or two-family dwelling because the county opted out of the state program¹. Inside a municipality, confirm building permits and zoning with the town; countywide zoning remains unconfirmed, while TDEC handles septic permits and inspections throughout Carroll County through its Jackson Environmental Field Office^1,2,3,4.

At a glance

Building permit: Generally no state permit for one- or two-family dwellings in unincorporated Carroll County; municipal and other permits may apply¹
Zoning: Countywide status unconfirmed; ask the County Mayor's Office about the parcel and proposed use^2,5
Septic permit: Required for construction, modification or repair; apply through TDEC's Jackson Environmental Field Office^3,4
RV living: Not confirmed; ask the County Mayor's Office before relying on RV occupancy^2,5
Tiny home: Occupancy and dimensional rules are not confirmed; ask the County Mayor's Office and TDEC^2,4,5
Owner-builder: Available when the home will be the owner's residence, will not be sold or leased, and no homeowner permit was issued in the prior 24 months⁶
Voluntary inspection: An owner or contractor may request a state inspection; approval can lead to a Certificate of Occupancy⁷
Septic soils: 0% of mapped soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field⁸

Who to call

Building permits

Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office residential program

State residential program status and voluntary inspection questions for Carroll County

731-609-5063

inspectorjoe70@outlook.com

Planning & zoning

Carroll County Mayor's Office

County contact for parcel-specific zoning, land-use, floodplain and local permit questions

(731) 986-1936

aezell@carroll.tn.org

625 High Street, Suite 101, Huntingdon, TN 38344

2 more officesSeptic permits · Roads & driveways

Septic permits

TDEC Jackson Environmental Field Office, Division of Water Resources

Septic-related inquiries for Carroll County

731-441-5593

1625 Hollywood Drive, Jackson, TN 38305

Roads & driveways

Carroll County Road Commissioners

County-road access questions

(731) 986-1998

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 Carroll County, Tennessee?

Carroll County is an opt-out jurisdiction, so the State Residential Building Program generally does not require a state building permit for a one- or two-family dwelling in unincorporated Carroll County¹. That answer does not cover commercial construction or separate septic permits, floodplain review, driveway permits and electrical approvals¹. An owner or contractor may buy a state residential building permit and request an optional State Fire Marshal inspection; the state fee is based on construction cost, with separate charges for required plumbing and HVAC inspection on new construction^7,9. A compliant dwelling can then receive a Certificate of Occupancy⁷. The owner-builder path is available when the house will be the owner's residence, will not be sold or leased, and the owner has not received a homeowner building permit during the preceding 24 months⁶.

Who issues building permits in Carroll County, Tennessee?

The State Fire Marshal's residential roster lists Carroll County as opted out and gives a program contact at 731-609-5063 and inspectorjoe70@outlook.com.

The State Fire Marshal's residential roster lists Carroll County as opted out and gives a program contact at 731-609-5063 and inspectorjoe70@outlook.com¹. Clarksburg, Hollow Rock, McKenzie, McLemoresville and Trezevant participate in the state residential building program; Huntingdon and Bruceton are exempt, and Atwood is opted out¹. Ask the relevant municipality about its building permit and zoning approval before work inside city limits¹. Municipal status does not move septic permitting: applications and fees for Carroll County septic systems go to TDEC's Division of Water Resources through the Jackson Environmental Field Office^3,4. For an unincorporated parcel, direct zoning and floodplain questions to the Carroll County Mayor's Office at (731) 986-1936, and ask the Carroll County Road Commissioners about county-road access⁵.

Does Carroll County, Tennessee have zoning?

We could not confirm countywide zoning in Carroll County; the available information identifies a limited Carroll County Lake Planning Region zoning resolution and a separate flood-hazard resolution but does not establish a broader countywide ordinance². Do not treat that uncertainty as permission for a particular use, setback, lot size, building height, RV or tiny home². Ask the Carroll County Mayor's Office to identify any zoning approval that applies to an unincorporated parcel before closing⁵. Tennessee law allows counties to zone territory outside municipalities, subject to state procedures¹⁰. Where county zoning applies, a structure on agricultural land must be incidental to the agricultural enterprise to qualify for the state agricultural zoning exemption, which has exceptions near specified public facilities and in the one-hundred-year floodplain¹¹. Inside city limits, ask the municipality about zoning; TDEC still handles septic permits for Carroll County properties using septic systems^3,4.

How do septic permits work in Carroll County?

TDEC's Division of Water Resources administers Carroll County septic permits through the Jackson Environmental Field Office, including properties inside municipalities.

TDEC's Division of Water Resources administers Carroll County septic permits through the Jackson Environmental Field Office, including properties inside municipalities^3,4. A Septic System Construction Permit is required to install a system or repair a faulty one; submit the completed application and fee to the field office³. Review generally takes 10 days and must be completed within 45 days; a new conventional system permit costs $400 for up to 1,000 gallons per day, while a repair permit has no fee³. The installer must arrange the final inspection before covering the system, and approval produces a Certificate of Completion; TDEC lists a $100 inspection fee for a new conventional system or a repair^3,12. Carroll County's soil data show 0% of mapped soils without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early purchase contingency⁸. Call 731-441-5593 before choosing a house site⁴.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Carroll County?

Carroll County's rules for living in an RV, camping on private land, tiny-home occupancy, minimum dwelling size and setbacks could not be confirmed.

Carroll County's rules for living in an RV, camping on private land, tiny-home occupancy, minimum dwelling size and setbacks could not be confirmed². The absence of a confirmed countywide zoning ordinance does not establish that those uses are allowed². Before buying, give the Carroll County Mayor's Office the parcel location and describe whether the unit will be temporary, permanent, on wheels or on a foundation⁵. Carroll County's opt-out status generally removes the state residential building permit requirement for a one- or two-family dwelling, but it does not waive septic permits^1,3. Inside a city or town, ask the municipality about building permits and zoning approval; TDEC's Jackson Environmental Field Office still handles the septic permit and inspection^1,3,4.

Building a home in Carroll County: the steps in order

Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Carroll County or a municipality because building permit and zoning authority can change at city limits.

Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Carroll County or a municipality because building permit and zoning authority can change at city limits^1,2.

For unincorporated land, ask the Carroll County Mayor's Office whether zoning, the Lake planning-area resolution or floodplain review applies; inside city limits, ask the municipality about zoning approval^2,5,13.

Apply to TDEC's Jackson Environmental Field Office for the septic permit; this state authority applies across Carroll County, including municipalities^3,4.

Plan access: ask the Road Commissioners about a county road, and obtain a TDOT driveway permit before constructing, changing or modifying an entrance on state highway right-of-way^5,14.

Build under Carroll County's opt-out status, or buy a state residential building permit for the optional inspection and Certificate of Occupancy path^1,7,9.

What should you check before buying land in Carroll County?

Start with septic feasibility: 0% of Carroll County's mapped soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, making the site evaluation central to cost and buildable-area planning⁸. If land will be divided for development using septic, TDEC requires a survey and soils map for subdivision evaluation, except when every resulting parcel is at least 5 acres¹⁵. Before an electrical inspector processes service for a new residence, written notice must show public sewer service, a septic application or use of an existing septic system¹⁵. Confirm zoning approval, floodplain review, setbacks and the intended use with the Carroll County Mayor's Office for unincorporated land or the municipality inside city limits^2,5,13. Septic permits remain with TDEC throughout Carroll County³. Verify county-road access with the Road Commissioners, and obtain a TDOT driveway permit for an entrance on state highway right-of-way^5,14.

Watch-outs

Carroll County's opt-out status applies to the county jurisdiction; incorporated communities have separate residential building-permit statuses, while TDEC retains septic-permit authority throughout Carroll County^1,3.
Countywide zoning, RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, setbacks, minimum lot size and floodplain administration remain unconfirmed, so ask the Carroll County Mayor's Office about the specific parcel and use^2,5.
Conventional septic conditions are difficult across the mapped county: 0% of soils are rated without severe drain-field limitations⁸.

Sources

15 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 Carroll County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Rule	Carroll County	Benton County	Henderson County	Henry County	Gibson County	Weakley County	Decatur County
Building permit	Not required	Limited	Not required	Not required	Required	Required	Not required
County zoning	Not published	Yes	Not published	No	Not published	No	No
Septic permits	TDEC	TDEC	TDEC	TDEC	TDEC	TDEC	TDEC

Rule

Carroll County

Building permit

Not required

Limited

Not required

Required

Not required

County zoning

Not published

Yes

Not published

Septic permits

TDEC

Cities and towns in Carroll County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet covered: Town of Atwood · Town of Hollow Rock · Town of Huntingdon · Town of McLemoresville · Town of Trezevant

Answers from the rulebook for Carroll County

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

Carroll County rules

Building code adoptedNot adopted (with conditions)
Statewide building-construction standards for one- and two-family dwellings within Carroll County jurisdictional boundaries.
- The official state page identifies Carroll County as OPT OUT.
- The rule concerns one- and two-family dwellings; it does not establish the status of all commercial or other construction codes.
- An owner may request a State Fire Marshal inspection in an opt-out jurisdiction.
“OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Not adopted — State residential building-code participation for one- and two-family dwellings within Carroll County.
  “Carroll County | OPT OUT | Joe McDonald | Inspectorjoe70@outlook.com | 731-609-5063 [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
Who permits septicState
Subsurface sewage disposal systems in Carroll County
- Applications and fees are sent to the Tennessee Division of Water Resources at the appropriate Environmental Field Office.
- The official state page states that contract counties may require an additional installer permit and lists the contract counties; Carroll County is not listed among them.
“Completed application forms and application fees should be sent to the Division of Water Resources at the appropriate Environmental Field Office. A detailed review of the application is conducted, and the applicant is notified when the review is complete.”
Septic System Construction Permit ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026

Tennessee rules that apply here

Building permitLimited
State residential building permits for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses in Tennessee jurisdictions where the State Fire Marshal's Office administers the residential building permit program.
- The state permit is required only in some areas because other jurisdictions may enforce local residential building codes.
- A county legislative body may remove unincorporated areas from the state program or a city legislative body may remove the city by a two-thirds vote.
- The state permit does not replace grading or fill approval, floodplain compliance, septic or sewer permits, electrical permits, or zoning approval.
- Local governments remain responsible for locally adopted codes and other requirements.
“Why is the state residential building permit only required in some areas of the state?”
Residential Permit FAQs ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — State residential building permits for one- and two-family dwellings in Carroll County.
  “OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
A Tennessee property owner constructing a single residence for the owner's individual use.
- The owner may have one permit every two years.
- The residence must not be for sale, lease, or rent.
- If the owner hires a contractor, the contractor is a prime and must be licensed and obtain the building permit for inspections.
- Contracts may not be split into phases to circumvent the licensing law.
- Anyone paid more than $25,000 by the owner is considered a prime and must be licensed.
- The exemption is based on TCA 62-6-103 and Rule 0680-1-.22.
owner permits: per 1 permit per two years · contractor payment threshold: > 25000 USD (Anyone paid in excess of this amount is considered a prime and must be licensed.)
“one permit every two years to build their home as long as it is not for sale, lease, or rent (individual use).”
Can I build my own home without a license? ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Available (with conditions) — A homeowner obtaining a state residential building permit where the state residential program applies.
  “A homeowner may build a home as long as the construction is to be the residence of the homeowner”
  Residential Building Permits — Regulations ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
InspectionsLimited
One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses in areas of Tennessee where the State Fire Marshal's residential building code enforcement program applies (not areas with locally enforced codes under an exemption, and not opt-out jurisdictions).
- Program does not apply where the local government has received an exemption from the State Fire Marshal's Office by enforcing local building codes.
- Program does not apply where the city or county legislative body opted out by a 2/3 vote; in opt-out jurisdictions an owner may request a State Fire Marshal inspection (Tenn. Code Ann. 68-120-101(b)(1)(d)) and receive a certificate of occupancy if standards are met.
- The page lists inspections of the foundation before pouring, framing/rough-in and final; this record does not state a fixed minimum count, and whether any inspection may be waived was not located on the pages opened.
- A slab inspection is not required for garages or unfinished basements; an additional slab inspection fee applies if the slab under living space is not a monolithic pour.
- One free re-inspection per project if a required inspection is not passed the first time; additional re-inspections require a fee.
- Detached garages, sheds, barns and other detached structures not used for living purposes do not need a state residential building permit.
- Inspections are performed by state contracted inspectors and scheduled at core.tn.gov.
inspection stages: foundation before pouring; framing/rough-in; final (slab inspection not required for garages or unfinished basements; waiver rules not confirmed)
“inspections are performed of the foundation prior to pouring, the framing/rough-in construction and the final construction.”
Residential Permits - Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office ↗Re-checked Nov 6, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Optional State Fire Marshal inspection of one- or two-family dwellings in Carroll County, an official opt-out jurisdiction.
  “In 2017, the Tennessee General Assembly passed a law that allows an owner of a building, structure or premises located within an “opt-out” or “non-code” jurisdiction to request the State Fire Marshal’s Office to inspect the building, structure or premises to determine if it meets the statewide building construction safety standards. Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-120-101(b)(1)(D).”
  Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
Certificate of occupancyLimited
One- or two-family dwellings in Carroll County when the owner requests State Fire Marshal inspection in the opt-out jurisdiction.
- The State Fire Marshal's Office releases a Certificate of Occupancy only if the dwelling is determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards.
- The source describes this as an option for opt-out or non-code jurisdictions, not a universal county requirement.
“Their home may now be inspected by an inspector with the State Fire Marshal’s Office during the construction process, both for new construction and additions to existing homes. If the one- or two-family dwelling is determined to meet the statewide building construction safety standards, the State Fire Marshal’s Office will release a Certificate of Occupancy, often referred to as a “CO.””
Statewide Building Construction Code Inspections in “Opt-Out” or “Non-Code” Jurisdictions ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Certificates of occupancy for one- and two-family dwellings in Tennessee opt-out or non-code jurisdictions when the State Fire Marshal's Office inspects the dwelling during construction.
  “determined to meet the statewide building construction safety standards, the State Fire Marshal’s Office will release a Certificate of Occupancy”
  Statewide Building Construction Code Inspections in “Opt-Out” or “Non-Code” Jurisdictions ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Camping on your landLimited
Overnight camping on Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency-controlled Wildlife Management Areas and related lands where overnight camping is allowed.
- Overnight camping may be permitted only in designated areas and by permission from the area manager, park ranger, lake manager, park superintendent, or national forest supervisor.
- Camping is subject to limitations prescribed in the permit if required.
- Camping may not exceed three weeks from the beginning to the end of the camping stay.
- Owner contact information or a TWRA ID number and date of arrival must be displayed on a camper, tent, vehicle, or similar item at all times.
- Where overnight camping is allowed, firearms and archery equipment must remain in camp except during legal hunting hours.
maximum camping stay: <= 3 weeks
“May be permitted in designated areas by permission from the area manager, park ranger, lake manager, park superintendent, or national forest supervisor. Such camping is subject to the limitations prescribed in the permit if required.”
Wildlife Management Areas in Tennessee ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Camping and use of trailers or other camper units in Tennessee state forests administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Division of Forestry.
  “Camping and the use of trailers or other camper units are allowed only at designated locations. The district forester will issue written permits to persons to camp in backcountry or other isolated sections of a forest area.”
  Forestry Rules and Regulations ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)
Preassembled permanent tiny homes delivered to a homeowner as a completed unit, including a tiny home built off-site on a chassis or installed on a permanent foundation.
- The State Fire Marshal’s Office says its inspection program allows construction, inspection, and permanent consumer use of tiny homes and similar structures.
- The program inspection is described as similar to inspections of a site-built home and provides a decal reflecting compliance with adopted statewide building and electrical codes.
- State residential-code regulations apply to new construction; additions over 30 square feet have been covered since October 1, 2011.
- A state residential building permit is not zoning approval and does not authorize violation of a local ordinance; local zoning or other local requirements may independently control placement or occupancy.
- If a subsurface sewage system will serve the residence, a conventional septic-system permit is required for installation of a conventional system or approved substitute product; an alternative-system permit is required for installation of an alternative system.
- If a water well is drilled or a well pump or water-treatment device is installed, the work must be performed by a licensed person.
addition area triggering state residential-code regulation: > 30 square feet (Applies to additions beginning October 1, 2011.)
“The new tiny home inspection program was developed to allow for the construction, inspection and use of tiny homes and similar structures for permanent use by consumers.”
SFMO Program, Inspectors Help Ensure Tiny Homes Are Fire Safe ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Manufactured homesLimited
HUD-labeled manufactured homes installed in Tennessee under the state manufactured-housing program.
- Manufactured homes must be installed by licensed installers and have an installation decal applied after setup.
- A state residential building permit is not required merely to place a manufactured or modular home in the state program, but a Manufactured/Modular Site Work Permit is required for a custom addition, site-built deck, porch, or stoop next to the home.
- A state residential building permit is not zoning approval and does not authorize violation of a local ordinance; local zoning or other local requirements may independently control siting or occupancy.
- If a subsurface sewage system will serve the residence, state septic-system permitting applies.
“Ensure your application is approved and your license is active prior to installing any manufactured home in the state of Tennessee”
Residential Permit FAQs ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Construction, installation, modification, or repair of residential, commercial, or industrial septic systems in Tennessee.
- A permit is required before construction, modification, or repair.
- A septic system permit should be obtained before starting dirt work or construction of any building, including the building pad.
- Repair permits have no permit fee.
- Alternative systems require an extra-high intensity soils map prepared by a Tennessee-licensed soils consultant.
- Contract counties may require an additional permit.
new conventional SSDS permit fee: 400 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($100 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · new alternative SSDS permit fee: 500 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($150 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · experimental SSDS permit fee: 500 USD · repair permit fee: 0 USD (Repair construction inspection fee is $100)
“A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system. This permit ensures that the septic system design complies with state regulations and safeguards your health by properly managing wastewater.”
Septic System Construction Permit ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — Installation of a subsurface sewage disposal system or repair of an existing faulty system serving property in Carroll County
  “Any individual or property owner who desires to have a subsurface sewage disposal (septic) system installed on their property or requiring repair to an existing faulty system must get a Septic System Construction Permit.”
  Septic System Construction Permit ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Required — Construction, modification, or repair of septic systems in Carroll County.
  “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system.”
  Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
Septic inspectionRequired
Subsurface sewage disposal system installations and covered repairs in Carroll County under Tennessee's statewide SSDS program.
- A septic system construction permit is required for installation or repair of an existing faulty system.
- The applicant or SSDS installer must notify the Division when installation is complete so it can be inspected and approved.
- The Division inspects each SSDS installation for compliance with permit conditions and regulatory requirements.
- The installer must contact the local Environmental Scientist to schedule a final inspection before the system is covered; approval results in a Certificate of Completion.
- Construction inspection fees listed by TDEC are $100 for a new conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe SSDS, $200 for a new alternative SSDS, and $100 for a repair construction inspection.
- The TDEC page states that contract counties—Blount, Davidson, Hamilton, Jefferson, Knox, Madison, Sevier, Shelby, and Williamson—may require an additional permit.
new conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe SSDS construction inspection fee: 100 USD · new alternative SSDS construction inspection fee: 200 USD · repair construction inspection fee: 100 USD
“The applicant or SSDS installer must notify the Division when a system has been installed so that it can be inspected and approved. [...] The Division inspects each SSDS installation to ensure that it was installed in accordance with permit conditions and regulatory requirements.”
Septic System Construction Permit ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — Septic installations in Carroll County subject to the Tennessee SSDS program.
  “schedule a final inspection before the system is covered.”
  Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
- Required — Installation of subsurface sewage disposal systems in Tennessee.
  “The applicant or SSDS installer must notify the Division when a system has been installed so that it can be inspected and approved.”
  Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Frequently Asked Questions ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Construction, modification, or repair of an on-site subsurface sewage disposal (septic) system, including systems serving residential, commercial, and industrial properties in Tennessee.
- A septic-system permit is required for construction, modification, or repair.
- An applicant planning a new system, or repair or modification of an existing system, must apply for a permit.
- A TDEC Environmental Scientist conducts a site evaluation and may request a detailed site plan or soils map from a private licensed soil consultant.
- If a permit is issued, the applicant provides it to a licensed installer; after installation, the installer contacts the local Environmental Scientist for a final inspection before the system is covered.
- A Certificate of Completion is issued if the installation is approved.
“A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system.”
Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Frequently Asked Questions ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Well permitRequired
Drilling a water well for production of water from underground sources in Tennessee.
- Before drilling, the property owner or licensed well driller must submit a Notice of Intent to the Director in the Department-prescribed manner.
- A driller must have documentation that the Notice of Intent was submitted to the Division of Water Resources before beginning operations at a drill site.
- The Notice of Intent fee or a receipt must accompany the driller's report; no well or borehole may be drilled unless the driller has documentation that a Notice of Intent has been filed.
- A Notice of Intent and fee are not required for well closure, deepening, or reworking of a water well or closed-loop geothermal borehole.
- The Notice of Intent fee requirement does not apply in a qualifying local jurisdiction authorized to regulate well location and construction that has a Commissioner-approved inspection fee.
- The Notice of Intent fee does not apply when the property owner filed a notice and paid the fee for the same property within the previous five years, provided the new notice identifies the first notice's identification number.
- A Notice of Intent expires 180 days after its original filing date.
Notice of Intent fee for water wells for production of water per property site: 75 USD (Not required for qualifying local jurisdictions or when the same property satisfies the five-year prior-notice exception.) · Notice of Intent expiration: 180 days
“A Notice of Intent to drill a water well must be submitted by the property owner or the licensed well driller to the Director in the manner prescribed by the Department, prior to commencement of drilling a water well in Tennessee.”
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Rule 0400-45-09, Water Well Licensing Regulations and Well Construction Standards ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Mandatory utility hookupConditional
Connection of buildings to sanitary sewer systems where a qualifying Tennessee utility system has issued bonds payable for sewer services and the property abuts a street or public way containing a sanitary sewer.
- The property must abut a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer.
- A building must exist on the lot or parcel for residential, commercial, or industrial use.
- The utility system may require connection and cessation of other sewage-disposal methods.
- For electrical service, written notification must show public sewer service, a septic permit application, or an existing septic system.
“Utility systems within the State of Tennessee that have issued bonds payable for sewer services are granted authority in TCA § 7-35-201 (1) to "require the owner tenant or occupant of each lot or parcel of land that abuts upon a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer and upon which lot or parcel a building exists for residential, commercial or industrial use, to connect the building with the sanitary sewer and to cease to use any other means for the disposal of sewage, sewage waste or other polluting matter."”
comptroller.tn.gov ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Conditional — Electric service requests for a new residence in Carroll County using public sewer or an existing or proposed septic system.
  “before the electrical inspector can process a request for electrical service”
  Online Application for Septic Related Services ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
- Sewer (with conditions) — Residential, commercial, or industrial buildings on lots or parcels abutting a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer, where the applicable Tennessee utility system has issued bonds payable for sewer services.
  “Utility systems within the State of Tennessee that have issued bonds payable for sewer services are granted authority in TCA § 7-35-201 (1) to "require the owner tenant or occupant of each lot or parcel of land that abuts upon a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer and upon which lot or parcel a building exists for residential, commercial or industrial use, to connect the building with the sanitary sewer and to cease to use any other means for the disposal of sewage, sewage waste or other polluting matter."”
  Utility Customers Frequently Asked Questions ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Agricultural exemptionConditional
Buildings or structures on land used for agricultural purposes and subject to county zoning regulation in Tennessee.
- The building or structure must be located on lands devoted to agricultural uses.
- The building or structure must be incidental to the agricultural enterprise.
- The exemption does not apply to agricultural lands adjacent or in proximity to state or federal-aid highways, public airports, or public parks.
- The exemption does not apply to land located within the one-hundred-year flood plain.
- The Attorney General opinion states that the provision applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
- There is no blanket exemption for cotton gins, grain elevators, slaughterhouses, processing plants, or milk bottling plants; those structures qualify only when the statutory conditions are met.
“it must be located on lands “devoted to agricultural uses;” and (2) it must be “incidental to the agricultural enterprise.””
Exemption from County Zoning Regulation for Buildings on Land Used for Agriculture, Opinion No. 22-07 ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionAvailable (with conditions)
State residential building permits for detached garages, sheds, barns, and other detached structures that are not used for living purposes.
- This is an exemption from the state residential building permit, not an exemption from all state or local requirements.
- The State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program applies only in areas that have not received an SFMO exemption through local-code enforcement and have not opted out by a two-thirds vote of the city or county legislative body.
- The exemption stated by the Department is limited to detached structures not used for living purposes; the opened official page does not state an accessory-structure size threshold.
- The state residential building permit is not zoning approval and does not authorize violation of state law, regulation, or local ordinance.
“A state residential building permit is not required for detached garages, sheds, barns or other detached structures that are not used for living purposes.”
Residential Permits ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Division of land in Carroll County into two or more lots, sites, or other divisions for immediate or future construction where a septic system is or will be used.
- A survey and soils map must be submitted before the Division performs the subdivision evaluation.
- The soils map must be created by a Tennessee-licensed soils consultant.
- A subdivision does not include division into two or more tracts or parcels when all are 5 acres or larger.
“A Subdivision Evaluation is required if you want to divide any tract or parcel of land into 2 or more lots, sites or other divisions for the purpose of immediate or future construction of houses, buildings, or other development where a septic system is or will be used. A survey and soils map must be submitted to the Division before staff can perform a subdivision evaluation. The soils map must be created by a soils consultant licensed in TN. [...] A subdivision does not include the division of any tract or parcel of land into 2 or more tracts or parcels when all are 5 acres or larger in size.”
Online Application for Septic Related Services ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
Driveway accessLimited
Construction, modification, revision, or change in use of a driveway on Tennessee state highway right-of-way.
- The requirement applies to state highway right-of-way and does not establish a permit requirement for every driveway on every road.
- Property owners must obtain the permit from TDOT.
- County or municipal land-use regulations may also apply.
“Under state law, a permit is required before construction of a driveway on state highway right-of-way, including the modification, revision, or change in use”
Highway Entrance Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Driveways connecting to Tennessee state highway right-of-way in Carroll County.
  “Under state law, a permit is required before construction of a driveway on state highway right-of-way, including the modification, revision, or change in use of any existing driveway facilities. Property owners must obtain a permit from TDOT.”
  Highway Entrance Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
Building in a floodplainLimited
Development in or near mapped floodplains throughout Tennessee, insofar as Tennessee's statewide floodplain-management guidance describes locally administered requirements.
- Floodplain development requirements are managed locally by the community where the property is located.
- Each NFIP-participating community has a local floodplain administrator who helps manage development in mapped flood hazard areas.
- If the property is inside city limits, contact the city floodplain administrator; if outside city limits, contact the county floodplain administrator.
- Local review may be required before development begins in a regulated floodplain.
- Requirements vary by community and are based on the local floodplain management ordinance and flood zones mapped in that community.
- Development activity that may require local review includes construction, repairs, substantial improvements, placement of fill, grading, excavation, manufactured homes, accessory structures, or other development activity.
- Floodplain management ordinances are adopted, administered, and enforced by the local community, not by TEMA.
local review before development in a regulated floodplain: may be required (Requirements vary by community and mapped flood zone.)
“Floodplain development requirements are managed locally. Each community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program has a local floodplain administrator who helps manage development in mapped flood hazard areas. [...] If the property is inside city limits, contact the city floodplain administrator. If the property is outside city limits, contact the county floodplain administrator. [...] Local review may be required before development begins in a regulated floodplain. Requirements vary by community and are based on the local floodplain management ordinance and flood zones mapped in that community.”
Statewide Floodplain Administrator Directory ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Development in mapped flood hazard areas in Carroll County, subject to the applicable local floodplain ordinance and administrator.
  “Local review may be required before development begins in a regulated floodplain. Requirements vary by community and are based on the local floodplain management ordinance and flood zones mapped in that community.”
  Statewide Floodplain Administrator Directory ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Tennessee State Fire Marshal residential building permits, including a permit voluntarily purchased for inspection in an opt-out or non-code jurisdiction.
- The fee is based on construction cost.
- For construction costs above the maximum listed, an additional $50.00 fee applies for each additional $50,000 or fraction thereof.
- The cost of construction cannot be less than $60.57 per heated square foot of construction.
- An HVAC and Plumbing Inspection is required for all new construction.
- A slab other than Monolith Pour Inspection is required when slab and footing are cast separately.
- The official application page states that state residential permits are required only in listed cities and unincorporated counties; Carroll County is not among the listed unincorporated counties on that page.
- The non-traditional-home guidance states that an owner in a jurisdiction that has elected not to enforce a residential building code may request a state inspection by purchasing a residential building permit.
permit fee for construction cost $0 to $5,000: 100 USD · permit fee for construction cost $5,001 to $100,000: 350 USD · permit fee for construction cost $100,001 to $150,000: 400 USD · permit fee for construction cost $151,001 to $200,000: 450 USD · additional fee for plumbing and HVAC inspection: 100 USD (Required for all new construction) · additional fee for slab other than Monolith Pour Inspection: 100 USD (Required when slab and footing are cast separately) · minimum construction cost valuation: >= 60.57 USD per heated square foot
“NOTE: For construction costs above the maximum listed in the table below there is an additional fee of $50.00 for each additional $50,000 or fraction thereof.”
Residential Building Permit Fees ↗Re-checked Oct 7, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Published (with conditions) — Residential building permits administered by Tennessee's State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses where the state program applies.
  “$0 to $5,000 | $100 | $100 | $100 $5,001 to $100,000 | $350 | $100 | $100”
  Residential Building Permit Fees ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Residential permit purchase and inspection process under Tennessee's State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program.
- The state program applies to one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses only in areas without the stated local-code exemption or opt-out.
- A first-time CORE user must register for an account.
- A building permit must be purchased online or at a local Issue Agent.
- Inspections cover the foundation before pouring, framing/rough-in construction, and final construction.
- One free re-inspection is available; each additional re-inspection requires an additional fee.
- A homeowner may build a home only if it will be the homeowner's residence, not sold or leased, and the homeowner has not received a homeowner building permit during the preceding 24 months.
- Detached garages, sheds, barns, and other detached structures not used for living purposes do not require a state residential building permit.
- A permit is not required for installation of a manufactured or modular home, but custom site work such as a deck, patio, or stoop requires a permit.
effective date for permit requirement for additions over 30 square feet: 2011-10-01 (Applies to additions to existing homes.) · free re-inspections per project: 1 inspection (Available if a required inspection is not passed the first time.)
“A building permit must be purchased online or at a local Issue Agent. The cost of the building permit is based on the estimated cost”
Residential Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Partial — Optional state residential inspection and Certificate of Occupancy process available in Carroll County as an opt-out jurisdiction.
  “The owner of a one- or two-family dwelling or the contractor performing work on the dwelling may obtain a state building permit at various locations throughout the state or online at www.tn.gov/commerce/fire/residential-permits.html.”
  Statewide Building Construction Code Inspections in “Opt-Out” or “Non-Code” Jurisdictions ↗Re-checked Sep 30, 2026
county zoning authorityGeneral
County legislative bodies adopting zoning regulations for portions of Tennessee counties outside municipal corporations.
- The authority is exercised under the conditions and procedures in Tennessee Code Annotated §§ 13-7-101 through 13-7-119.
- The grant applies to portions of counties outside municipal corporations.
- County zoning authority does not authorize county building permits or regulation of buildings or structures on agricultural land when the building or structure is incidental to the agricultural enterprise, except on agricultural lands adjacent or in proximity to state federal-aid highways, public airports or public parks.
- The agricultural-land limitation applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
“Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-101, et seq., the General Assembly has expressly delegated the authority to county legislative bodies to enact zoning regulations and create a board of zoning appeals.”
Tennessee Attorney General Opinion No. 10-108 ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026

Still unanswered

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

County-wide zoning — Countywide zoning in Carroll County, Tennessee
Local zoning — Zoning rules across incorporated and unincorporated areas of Carroll County
Zoning districts — Published zoning districts or zoning maps for Carroll County
Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Carroll County
Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in Carroll County

6 more unanswered

Setbacks
Lot coverage
Building height
Living in an RV
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 Carroll County, Tennessee

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

Carroll County scores 79/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property.

How much does land cost in Carroll County, Tennessee?

Land in Carroll County runs about $3,459 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Carroll County?

Carroll County gets about 54.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 6.4% of years.

How remote is Carroll County?

A representative private-land location has about 36,978 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,440,326 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 septic rules in Carroll County, Tennessee

Do you need a building permit in Carroll County, Tennessee?

Who issues building permits in Carroll County, Tennessee?

Does Carroll County, Tennessee have zoning?

How do septic permits work in Carroll County?

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Carroll County?

Building a home in Carroll County: the steps in order

What should you check before buying land in Carroll County?

Watch-outs

Sources

Compared with neighboring counties

Carroll County in Tennessee

How Carroll County scores

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Parcel due diligence

Cities and towns in Carroll County

Answers from the rulebook for Carroll County

Carroll County rules

Tennessee rules that apply here

Still unanswered

Living off-grid in Carroll County, Tennessee

How Carroll compares in Tennessee