Bolthole Index

Cocke County, Tennessee

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Cocke County, Tennessee

70Index Score / 100
#52 of 95 in Tennessee

Cocke County, Tennessee does not currently require a county building permit or certificate of occupancy for construction, but development still requires county land-use approvals1. Before development or use begins, obtain the required Development Permit, 911 address, TDEC septic permit when applicable and Zoning Permit1. Incorporated municipalities may have separate requirements1.

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

Cocke County does not currently require a county building permit or county certificate of occupancy for construction activities.

Cocke County does not currently require a county building permit or county certificate of occupancy for construction activities1. You still need the approvals governing the site and use: a county Zoning Permit, a 911 address, a Development Permit and a TDEC septic permit when applicable1. A parcel inside an incorporated municipality may face separate municipal requirements1.

Cocke County has opted out of Tennessee's statewide standards for one- and two-family dwellings within the county's jurisdiction5. An owner may request State Fire Marshal inspections during construction; a dwelling that meets the statewide standards can receive a State Fire Marshal certificate of occupancy5. We could not confirm whether county building inspections apply to other project types, so ask the Zoning Department before construction.

Who issues permits in Cocke County, Tennessee?

Start with the Cocke County Zoning Department at 141 Western Plaza in Newport or 423-237-7600.

Start with the Cocke County Zoning Department at 141 Western Plaza in Newport or 423-237-76001. The Building Commissioner enforces zoning and may issue permits for agricultural and single- or multi-family development; other permit requests require Planning Commission approval1. Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals submissions are due at least 10 working days before the meeting1.

For a flood-zone parcel, contact the Cocke County Floodplain Administrator at 141 Western Ave in Newport, (423) 623-8791 or fpadmin@cockecountytn.gov2. For septic questions and forms, contact TDEC's Knoxville Environmental Field Office at (865) 594-6035; its service list includes Cocke County6. The zoning and floodplain pages display slightly different street descriptions, so call before visiting1,2.

Does Cocke County have zoning?

Yes.

Yes. Cocke County requires a Zoning Permit before development or use within the county zoning jurisdiction1. The county publishes zoning regulations and a zoning map, but district-specific controls must be checked in those materials1. The map shows residential, agricultural-forestry, national-park, neighborhood-commercial, general-commercial and industrial districts; it also marks city, state, TVA and state-assessed OSAP areas as not subject to county zoning3. Confirm the parcel's district with the Zoning Department because the map is not a legal boundary survey3.

A zoning application must show front, side and rear setbacks measured from property lines, but the county page does not provide each district's numeric distances1. We could not confirm minimum lot size, minimum dwelling size, building height or lot coverage; ask the Zoning Department.

How do septic permits work in Cocke County?

TDEC issues the septic permit required in the Cocke County zoning-permit package.

TDEC issues the septic permit required in the Cocke County zoning-permit package1. A septic construction permit is required before construction, modification or repair of a system serving residential, commercial or industrial property7. A TDEC Environmental Scientist evaluates the site and may request a detailed site plan or soils map; processing can take up to 45 days after TDEC receives a complete application7.

After installation, notify the local Environmental Scientist and leave the system uncovered for final inspection; TDEC issues a Certificate of Completion if the installation is approved7. Only 6.8% of county soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early contract contingency4. Contact TDEC's Knoxville field office for forms and guidance6.

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

We could not confirm a countywide right to occupy an RV or tiny home on private land in Cocke County, temporarily or long term.

We could not confirm a countywide right to occupy an RV or tiny home on private land in Cocke County, temporarily or long term. The county has district-based zoning, and the official map directs owners to confirm a parcel designation with the local zoning official3. Ask the Zoning Department whether the proposed structure and residential use are allowed, what setbacks apply, and whether special approval is needed1.

Do not assume a small structure avoids regular site approvals. Cocke County requires a Zoning Permit before development or use in its zoning jurisdiction1. We also could not confirm the county rules for temporary camping, manufactured homes, accessory dwellings or off-grid sanitation. If the parcel is inside a municipality or another area outside county zoning, ask that jurisdiction3.

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

Confirm the parcel's zoning district and whether county zoning applies; the official map excludes identified city, state, TVA and state-assessed OSAP areas.

  1. Confirm the parcel's zoning district and whether county zoning applies; the official map excludes identified city, state, TVA and state-assessed OSAP areas3.
  1. Obtain the Development Permit through the Floodplain Administrator; a flood-zone project also needs an elevation certificate before building starts2.
  1. Apply to TDEC for the septic construction permit when applicable and keep the approval for the zoning application1.
  1. Obtain the emergency-service address and prepare a site plan showing front, side and rear setbacks1.
  1. Submit the Zoning Permit application with the requested owner, parcel, acreage, project, dwelling, site-plan and contractor information1. A self-builder or applicant without a contractor must attach the county affidavit1.
  1. Arrange TDEC's final septic inspection before covering the system7.

What should you check before buying land in Cocke County?

Verify zoning with the Zoning Department, not just a listing: the map is for reference, excludes several jurisdiction types and directs users to confirm parcel designations locally.

Verify zoning with the Zoning Department, not just a listing: the map is for reference, excludes several jurisdiction types and directs users to confirm parcel designations locally3. If a tract will be divided, ask the Zoning Department how the county's published Subdivision Regulations apply before relying on a proposed lot layout1. Check FEMA flood status with the Floodplain Administrator because the county map's flood-hazard layer is not an official flood-area determination2,3. A driveway connecting to a Tennessee state highway needs a TDOT entrance permit before construction, modification or a change in use8.

Test septic feasibility early because only 6.8% of county soils lack severe conventional-drain-field limits4. Only 28.6% of the county has a slope of 15% or less, and 79.4% is wooded4. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.6%, with a median annual bill of $9114. Water-source and county-road driveway rules remain unconfirmed; ask the utility and road owner before closing.

Watch-outs

  • The county's no-building-permit statement does not establish rules inside an incorporated municipality; contact the municipality for a parcel inside city limits1.
  • The official zoning map is a reference map rather than a legal boundary survey, and its flood-hazard layer is not the official flood-area determination3.
  • RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, minimum lot size and minimum dwelling size remain unconfirmed; ask the Zoning Department for a parcel-specific answer1.

Sources

8 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 5, 2026

  1. Zoning Department — Cocke County, Tennessee
  2. Floodplain Department — Cocke County, Tennessee
  3. Zoning Department — Cocke County, Tennessee
  4. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  5. Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office Residential Permits Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors
  6. Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Knoxville Environmental Field Office (tn.gov)
  7. Zoning Department — Cocke County, Tennessee
  8. Highway Entrance Permits (Tennessee statewide rule)

Written October 5, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleCocke CountyGreene CountyHamblen CountyJefferson CountySevier CountyGrainger CountyHawkins County
Building permitLimitedRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredNot requiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesNoNo
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECCounty Health Dept.TDECTDEC

County locator

Cocke County in Tennessee

70
County map
Cocke County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Cocke County scores

70 / 100 · #52 of 95 in Tennessee · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion37100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency65100% ev.
Admin Boringness59100% ev.
Durability74100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost81100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$246kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$6,181Land / acre
50.7"Annual rain
2.6% of yrsSevere drought
2.6 / yr (+2.5)Mid-century 100°F days
11.7 daysMid-century dry spell
1.78" (+13%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.65×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,485Home insurance / yr
-1.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.61%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
78,023People within 30 min
2,809,992People within 2 hr
65,426Radius comparison (15 mi)
85.8People / sq mi
8.6%Federal land
28.6%Land at 15% slope or less
6.8%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
17,743 acWorkable land screen
79.4%Wooded land
69.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
57.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Cocke 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 Parrottsville

Answers from the rulebook for Cocke County

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

Cocke County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Construction activities and development or use of property within Cocke County.

    • The county states that a building permit is not required at this time.
    • A development permit, 911 address assignment, septic permit, and zoning permit are required before development or use may proceed.
    • This claim does not determine whether incorporated municipalities impose separate requirements.
    “At this time, Cocke County does not require a building permit or a certificate of occupancy for construction activities.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Construction activities in Cocke County under the county's current permitting statement.
      “At this time, Cocke County does not require a building permit or a certificate of occupancy for construction activities.”
    • Not required — Construction activities in Cocke County.
      “At this time, Cocke County does not require a building permit or a certificate of occupancy for construction activities.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A person building a structure in Cocke County without a contractor, including a person building the structure themselves.

    • If the applicant does not have a contractor, an affidavit of exemption must be obtained from the Building Commissioner.
    • If the applicant is exempt from requiring workers' compensation insurance or is building the structure themselves, the affidavit of exemption must be completed and attached to the zoning application.
    • The county zoning application also requires contractor information and proof of workers' compensation insurance when applicable.
    “If you are exempt from requiring workman’s compensation insurance, or building the structure yourself, please fill out an affidavit of exemption and attach it to the zoning application below.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Applicants building a structure themselves or exempt from workers' compensation insurance when applying for a county Zoning Permit.
      “If you are exempt from requiring workman’s compensation insurance, or building the structure yourself, please fill out an affidavit of exemption and attach it to the zoning application below.”
  • Building code adoptedNot adopted

    Tennessee State Residential Building Program coverage for Cocke County; incorporated municipalities may have separately listed statuses.

    • The Tennessee source states that OPT OUT means the jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the State Residential Building Program.
    • Cocke County's official page separately states that the county does not require a building permit or certificate of occupancy for construction activities.
    • Other county approvals remain required before development or use, including a development permit, 911 address, TDEC septic permit, and zoning permit.
    • The source lists Newport as EXEMPT and Parrottsville as OPT OUT separately; this claim should not be treated as the status of either municipality.
    “Cocke County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967 [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Certificate of occupancyNot required

    Construction activities in Cocke County.

    • Other development, zoning, septic, floodplain, and addressing approvals may still be required.
    “At this time, Cocke County does not require a building permit or a certificate of occupancy for construction activities.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Construction activities in Cocke County under the county's current permitting statement.
      “At this time, Cocke County does not require a building permit or a certificate of occupancy for construction activities.”
    • Not required — Construction activities in Cocke County.
      “At this time, Cocke County does not require a building permit or a certificate of occupancy for construction activities.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Development or use of property within Cocke County.

    • A Zoning Permit is required before development or use may proceed.
    • The Zoning Permit requires a Development Permit, 911 address assignment, and TDEC septic permit when applicable.
    • The Building Commissioner enforces the Zoning Regulations; agricultural and single- and multi-family permits may be issued by the Building Commissioner, while other permits must be approved by the Planning Commission.
    “However, the following approvals and permits are required prior to development or use of property within Cocke County: [...] · A Zoning Permit (which requires the above documentation)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Development and use of property within Cocke County.
      “However, the following approvals and permits are required prior to development or use of property within Cocke County: [...] · A Zoning Permit (which requires the above documentation)”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Development or use of property within Cocke County subject to the county Zoning Regulations and Zoning Permit process.

    • The Building Commissioner enforces the Zoning Regulations.
    • A Zoning Permit is required before development or use of property may proceed.
    • A Development Permit, assignment of a 911 address, and a TDEC-issued Septic Permit are listed as required documentation for the Zoning Permit.
    • The Building Commissioner may issue permits for agricultural and single and multi-family developments; other permits must be approved by the planning commission.
    • Submissions to the Regional Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals must be made at least 10 working days before the meeting at which they will be reviewed.
    “However, the following approvals and permits are required prior to development or use of property within Cocke County: [...] · A Zoning Permit (which requires the above documentation)”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Cocke County zoning districts shown on the official county zoning map, subject to parcel-specific confirmation and exclusions from county zoning.

    • The map identifies C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District, R-1 Residential, A-1 Agricultural-Forestry, P-1 National Parks, C-2 General Commercial, and I-1 Industrial.
    • The map legend also identifies F-1 Flood Hazard Zone, but states that it is not an official flood area and directs users to the FEMA Flood Map for official flood-area information.
    • City, state, TVA, and state-assessed OSAP areas are identified as not subject to county zoning.
    • The map is provided for reference only, does not establish legal descriptions or boundary lines, and advises confirming specific parcel designations with the local zoning official.
    • The official map was adopted October 21, 2024 and revised April 22, 2025.

    published zoning districts: C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District; R-1 Residential; A-1 Agricultural-Forestry; P-1 National Parks; C-2 General Commercial; I-1 Industrial (F-1 is labeled a Flood Hazard Zone and is not an official flood area.)

    “Map Adopted: October 21, 2024 Map Revised: April 22, 2025 [...] Legend C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District R-1 Residential A-1 Agricultural-Forestry P-1 National Parks Corporate Limits County Boundary Not Subject to County Zoning City, State, TVA, and State-Assessed OSAP: C-2 General Commercial I-1 Industrial”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings requiring a Cocke County zoning application.

    • The zoning application requires front, side, and rear setbacks.
    • The county page states that setbacks are measured from the property line to the location of the building.
    • No numeric setback distances were stated on the opened webpage.
    “Front, side, and rear setbacks. The setbacks are measured from the property line to the location of the building.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision activity subject to Cocke County subdivision regulations.

    • The county publishes a Subdivision Regulations document through the Zoning Department.
    • The specific numeric subdivision standards were not extracted from the linked official PDF.
    “Regulations: Subdivision Regulations Zoning Regulations Development Permit Application”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in a flood zone in Cocke County.

    • A Development Permit is issued by the Floodplain Administrator before development or use.
    • If the property is in a flood zone, an elevation certificate is required before the start of building.
    • The Floodplain Administrator follows county, TEMA, and FEMA regulations.
    “To obtain a development permit: [...] If your property is in a flood zone you will be required to obtain an elevation certificate. The elevation certificate must be obtained before the start of building in a flood zone.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Development in a Cocke County flood zone.
      “If your property is in a flood zone you will be required to obtain an elevation certificate. The elevation certificate must be obtained before the start of building in a flood zone.”
    • Required — Development and building in Cocke County, with additional flood-zone requirements where applicable.
      “If your property is in a flood zone you will be required to obtain an elevation certificate. The elevation certificate must be obtained before the start of building in a flood zone.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Development permits used for E-911 address issuance in Cocke County.

    • The source states that the permit is issued through the Cocke County Mayor's Office.
    • This fee statement applies to the development permit described on the E-911 page, not necessarily to zoning, septic, or other permits.

    development permit fee: 0 USD

    “It is a Tennessee State Law that you must obtain a development permit before an E-911 address can be issued. Permits are issued at the Cocke County Mayors Office at no cost.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Placement of an item on the Cocke County Regional Planning Commission agenda.
      “The Planning Commission will not send any email asking you for money. There is currently not a fee to be placed on the Planning Commission agenda and any emails saying so are a scam.”
  • Permit processPartial

    County zoning and development approval process.

    • Zoning applications require applicant and owner information, property address, subdivision and lot information when applicable, acreage, building description, existing dwelling count, site plan, front/side/rear setbacks, contractor information, workers' compensation proof, and contractor license proof.
    • If there is no contractor or the applicant is building the structure themselves, an affidavit of exemption is required.
    • A Development Permit, 911 address assignment, septic permit when applicable, and Zoning Permit must be obtained before development or use proceeds.
    • Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals submissions are due at least 10 working days before the meeting to be reviewed.

    Planning Commission or Board of Zoning Appeals submission lead time: >= 10 working days (before the meeting at which the submission is to be reviewed)

    “Submissions for the Cocke County Regional Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals must be submitted to the Zoning Department at least 10 working days prior to the meeting at which is to be reviewed.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Cocke County zoning-permit process for development or use of property.
      “To obtain a Zoning permit: [...] Submissions for the Cocke County Regional Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals must be submitted to the Zoning Department at least 10 working days prior to the meeting at which is to be reviewed.”
    • Partial — County zoning and development-permit process in Cocke County.
      “To obtain a Zoning permit: [...] Submissions for the Cocke County Regional Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals must be submitted to the Zoning Department at least 10 working days prior to the meeting at which is to be reviewed.”

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • 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.”
  • 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.”
    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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Tennessee subsurface sewage disposal system construction permitting and related SSDS administration statewide.

    • The Tennessee Division of Water Resources administers SSDS permitting in non-contract counties.
    • Permit packages and Certificate of Completion packages for sites in contract counties are submitted directly to the contract county.
    • The listed contract counties are Blount, Davidson, Hamilton, Jefferson, Knox, Madison, Sevier, Shelby, and Williamson.
    • Installer permits are valid statewide, but contract counties may require an additional permit.
    “Permit packages and Certificate of Completion Packages for sites located in the contract counties listed below should be submitted directly to the contract county.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State — Septic permitting applicable to development or property use in Cocke County, Tennessee.
      “However, the following approvals and permits are required prior to development or use of property within Cocke County: · A Development Permit (Issued by the Floodplain Administrator) · Assignment of a 911 Address · A Septic Permit issued by the TDEC · A Zoning Permit (which requires the above documentation)”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Statewide subsurface sewage disposal system permitting and assistance, with specified contract counties providing ground water protection services in their own areas.
      “NOTE: Some counties provide ground water protection services for their own areas. The online application form is not to be submitted for services requested in the following metropolitan or contact counties: Blount County, Davidson County/Nashville, Hamilton County, Jefferson County, Knox County, Madison County, Sevier County, Shelby County, Williamson County.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation of a new septic system or repair of an existing faulty septic system serving property in Cocke County.
      “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system.”
    • Required — Construction, modification, or repair of septic systems, including septic systems associated with development or property use in Cocke County.
      “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation of subsurface sewage disposal systems in Tennessee.

    • The installer must notify the Division when installation is complete.
    • A final inspection is scheduled before the system is covered.
    • TDEC inspects each SSDS installation for compliance with permit conditions and regulatory requirements.
    • Inspection fees vary by system type: $100 for new conventional or large-diameter graveless pipe systems, $200 for alternative systems, and $100 for repair construction inspections.

    new conventional construction inspection fee: 100 USD · alternative 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Septic-system installations serving property in Cocke County.
      “When installation is complete, the installer will contact the local Environmental Scientist to schedule a final inspection before the system is covered. If the septic system installation is approved, the Environmental Scientist will issue a Certificate of Completion.”
    • Required — Septic system installations in Cocke County.
      “When installation is complete, the installer will contact the local Environmental Scientist to schedule a final inspection before the system is covered. If the septic system installation is approved, the Environmental Scientist will issue a Certificate of Completion.”
    • Required — Septic-system installations in Cocke County.
      “When installation is complete, the installer will contact the local Environmental Scientist to schedule a final inspection before the system is covered. If the septic system installation is approved, the Environmental Scientist will issue a Certificate of Completion.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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."”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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."”
  • 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.””
  • 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.”
  • 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”
  • 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.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum residential dwelling floor area in Cocke County zoning districts.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements in Cocke County zoning regulations.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage limits under Cocke County zoning regulations.
  • Building height — Building-height limits under Cocke County zoning regulations.
  • Living in an RV — Long-term or permanent recreational-vehicle occupancy on private land in Cocke County.
2 more unanswered
  • 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 Cocke County, Tennessee

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

Cocke County scores 70/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: about 78,023 people within a 30-minute drive.

How much does land cost in Cocke County, Tennessee?

Land in Cocke County runs about $6,181 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Cocke County?

Cocke County gets about 50.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.6% of years.

How remote is Cocke County?

A representative private-land location has about 78,023 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,809,992 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.

How Cocke compares in Tennessee

Compare side-by-side →See all 95 Tennessee counties ranked →