Bolthole Index

Grainger County, Tennessee

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Grainger County, Tennessee

76Index Score / 100
#28 of 95 in Tennessee

Unincorporated Grainger County, Tennessee does not require a general residential building permit because the county opted out of the State Residential Building Program1. State residential building permits are required for covered construction inside Bean Station and Blaine, while Rutledge is also opted out1,2. Bean Station separately requires local zoning approval, and TDEC handles septic permits throughout Grainger County3,4,5.

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

No general residential building permit is required in unincorporated Grainger County because the county opted out of Tennessee's State Residential Building Program for one- and two-family dwellings.

No general residential building permit is required in unincorporated Grainger County because the county opted out of Tennessee's State Residential Building Program for one- and two-family dwellings1. Rutledge is also opted out, but covered residential construction inside Bean Station and Blaine requires a state residential building permit1,2. In unincorporated Grainger County, an owner or contractor may voluntarily obtain a state residential building permit and request State Fire Marshal inspection1. The state fee schedule applies to that voluntary permit, including separate inspection charges for new-construction plumbing and HVAC12. The opt-out affects residential building permits, not TDEC septic permits, county-road driveway permits, electrical permits, floodplain review or municipal zoning approval1,4,11.

Who issues building permits in Grainger County?

Grainger County does not issue a general residential building permit in its opt-out jurisdiction.

Grainger County does not issue a general residential building permit in its opt-out jurisdiction1. The state issues residential building permits for covered work inside Bean Station and Blaine; applicants must still ask the municipality whether local approvals also apply2. Bean Station requires its own zoning permit before excavation, work or placement of a structure3. Those municipal building-permit and zoning responsibilities do not move septic permitting: TDEC's Knoxville Environmental Field Office handles septic applications, questions and inspections throughout Grainger County4,5. For land divisions outside Bean Station, Blaine and Rutledge, the Grainger County Planning Commission reviews subdivision plats6. A driveway or road connecting to a county road needs a Grainger County Highway Department site visit and driveway permit before construction; the county source does not establish the process for state highways or municipal roads11.

Does Grainger County have zoning?

Unincorporated Grainger County appears to have no countywide zoning ordinance, but we could not confirm an authoritative countywide zoning publication.

Unincorporated Grainger County appears to have no countywide zoning ordinance, but we could not confirm an authoritative countywide zoning publication6. Bean Station is different: the town publishes zoning materials, and a zoning permit is required before excavation, work or placement of any structure within town limits3,7. We could not confirm complete zoning rules for Blaine or Rutledge, or county standards for minimum dwelling size, general setbacks, building height or lot coverage; ask the relevant municipality or the Grainger County Planning Commission before designing around any of those assumptions6. Tennessee's agricultural zoning exemption is conditional, not blanket: the structure must be on land devoted to agricultural use and incidental to the agricultural enterprise, with stated exceptions that include certain highway, park, airport and floodplain locations13. Manufactured-home occupancy separately requires installation by a state-licensed installer14.

How do septic permits work in Grainger County?

A new, modified or repaired septic system in Grainger County requires a TDEC Septic System Construction Permit.

A new, modified or repaired septic system in Grainger County requires a TDEC Septic System Construction Permit8. Grainger County is a non-contract county, so applications and fee payments use TDEC's state service-request process15. The Knoxville Environmental Field Office serves Grainger County and answers septic questions at (865) 594-60355. A new conventional permit costs $400 for design flow up to 1,000 gallons per day, while a new alternative permit costs $500 at that flow; additional-flow fees apply8. A repair permit has no permit fee, but its construction inspection costs $1008. The installer must arrange TDEC's final inspection before covering the system, and an approved installation receives a Certificate of Completion8. Only 10.5% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, making site evaluation an early due-diligence priority10.

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

We could not confirm a Grainger County rule that permits or prohibits long-term occupancy of one RV or a tiny home on private land.

We could not confirm a Grainger County rule that permits or prohibits long-term occupancy of one RV or a tiny home on private land. The county's published RV-park rules address compensated commercial parks rather than answering the private-land occupancy question16. Do not treat the absence of confirmed countywide zoning as permission to live in an RV or tiny home; ask the Grainger County Planning Commission, or the municipality if the parcel is inside town limits, before buying or moving a unit onto the site6. Bean Station requires a zoning permit before placing or building any structure within town limits3. A manufactured home is a different category from a travel trailer or site-built tiny house, and Tennessee prohibits occupancy unless the manufactured home was installed by a state-licensed installer14. Any septic or alternative subsurface sanitation serving an occupied structure still follows TDEC's permit and inspection process17.

How do you build a home in Grainger County, step by step?

Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Grainger County, Bean Station, Blaine or Rutledge: covered residential construction in Bean Station and Blaine requires a state residential building permit, while the county and Rutledge are opted out.

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Grainger County, Bean Station, Blaine or Rutledge: covered residential construction in Bean Station and Blaine requires a state residential building permit, while the county and Rutledge are opted out1,2.
  2. Ask the Grainger County Planning Commission about subdivision review, or the municipality about zoning approval; Bean Station requires a zoning permit before work or placement of a structure begins3,6.
  3. Order the septic site evaluation and apply for the septic permit through TDEC; only 10.5% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field8,10.
  4. Obtain a Grainger County Highway Department site visit and driveway permit before building access onto a county road, or a TDOT driveway permit before work on state-highway right-of-way11,18.
  5. In an opt-out jurisdiction, decide whether to request the optional state residential building permit and State Fire Marshal inspection route for a one- or two-family dwelling1.
  6. Keep the septic system uncovered until TDEC completes the final inspection8.

What should you check before buying land in Grainger County?

Start with septic feasibility because only 10.5% of Grainger County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.

Start with septic feasibility because only 10.5% of Grainger County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field10. Confirm whether public sewer abuts the property, because qualifying Tennessee utility systems can require an existing building on an abutting parcel to connect19. We could not confirm whether a property owner needs a separate private-well construction permit, so ask TDEC before treating a well as ready to drill. Terrain also deserves a site visit: 27.7% of county land has a slope of 15% or less, and 57.1% is wooded10. Check whether access meets a county road or state highway: a new connection to a county road requires a county permit, while state-highway access goes through TDOT11,18. Floodplain development standards for unincorporated land were not confirmed, so ask the county about local review before closing. Grainger County's effective property-tax rate is about 0.5%, with a median annual bill of about $87110.

Watch-outs

  • Long-term occupancy of a single RV or tiny home on private land in Grainger County remains unconfirmed; ask the Planning Commission or the relevant municipality before relying on it6.
  • Residential building-permit status changes at municipal boundaries: Bean Station and Blaine require state residential building permits for covered work, while Grainger County and Rutledge are opted out1,2.
  • Floodplain development rules for unincorporated Grainger County were not confirmed; ask the county which local review applies before building6.

Sources

19 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 7, 2026

  1. Tennessee State Fire Marshal - Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors (2026 county census)
  2. Apply for a Residential Permit
  3. ZONING PERMITS3
  4. TDEC - Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems (SSDS) (2026 county census)
  5. Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Knoxville Environmental Field Office (tn.gov)
  6. Grainger County Planning Commission (2026 county census)
  7. Resources | TownOfBeanStation
  8. Septic System Construction Permit
  9. Residential Permit FAQs
  10. 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
  11. Highway Superintendent – Grainger County Tennessee
  12. Residential Building Permit Fees
  13. Exemption from County Zoning Regulation for Buildings on Land Used for Agriculture
  14. Public Chapter 793 — Tennessee Manufactured Home Installation Act
  15. Third-Party Permits & Final Inspections
  16. Grainger County Planning Commission (RV Park & Campground Regulations) (graingercountytn.com)
  17. Online Application for Septic Related Services
  18. Highway Entrance Permits (Tennessee statewide rule)
  19. Utility Customers Frequently Asked Questions (Tennessee statewide rule)

Written October 7, 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 5 of its 6 neighbors, Grainger County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleGrainger CountyJefferson CountyHamblen CountyClaiborne CountyUnion CountyHancock CountyKnox County
Building permitNot requiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredNot requiredRequired
County zoningNoYesYesNoYesNoYes
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECCounty Health Dept.

County locator

Grainger County in Tennessee

76
County map
Grainger County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Grainger County scores

76 / 100 · #28 of 95 in Tennessee · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion37100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency64100% ev.
Admin Boringness87100% ev.
Durability81100% 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 →

$286kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$5,809Land / acre
50.4"Annual rain
1.6% of yrsSevere drought
3.2 / yr (+3.1)Mid-century 100°F days
12.3 daysMid-century dry spell
1.87" (+11.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.69×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,438Home insurance / yr
-0.9% / yrInsurance growth
0.73%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
87,083People within 30 min
2,533,707People within 2 hr
111,921Radius comparison (15 mi)
88People / sq mi
3.9%Federal land
27.7%Land at 15% slope or less
10.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
17,640 acWorkable land screen
57.1%Wooded land
61.7 tonsBiomass / forest ac
57.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Grainger 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.

Bean Station · Blaine · Town of Rutledge

Answers from the rulebook for Grainger County

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

Grainger County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    State residential building-permit requirements across Grainger County, including its unincorporated area and incorporated municipalities.

    • The Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office lists Grainger County as OPT OUT of the State Residential Building Program.
    • Bean Station and Blaine are separately listed as SRBP jurisdictions, so the countywide opt-out classification does not apply to those municipalities.
    • Rutledge is separately listed as OPT OUT.
    • The official jurisdiction list states that its information is accurate as of 8/21/2026.
    • Local permits may still be required; the state application page instructs applicants to check with the local government before construction.
    “Grainger County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967 Bean Station | SRBP | | | Blaine | SRBP | | | Rutledge | OPT OUT | | | [...] SRBP - The jurisdiction will participate in the State Residential Building Program [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    One- and two-family dwellings within Grainger County, with separate statuses listed for incorporated municipalities.

    • Grainger County is listed as OPT OUT of the State Residential Building Program.
    • Bean Station and Blaine are separately listed as SRBP jurisdictions, while Rutledge is separately listed as OPT OUT.
    • The Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office states that an owner or contractor in an opt-out jurisdiction may obtain a state building permit and request state inspection.
    • The jurisdiction table states that its information is accurate as of 8/21/2026.
    “Grainger County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967 Bean Station | SRBP | Blaine | SRBP | Rutledge | OPT OUT |”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — State residential building-code participation for Grainger County, including one- and two-family dwellings within the county jurisdiction.
      “Grainger County | OPT OUT [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — Grainger County's participation in Tennessee's State Residential Building Permit program; incorporated municipalities are separately listed.
      “Grainger County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967 Bean Station | SRBP Blaine | SRBP Rutledge | OPT OUT [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    • Partial — State residential building-code program status for Grainger County and its municipalities, especially one- and two-family dwellings.
      “Grainger County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967 Bean Station | SRBP | | | Blaine | SRBP | | | Rutledge | OPT OUT | | |”
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — State residential building-code participation for one- and two-family dwellings within Grainger County.
      “Grainger County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967 [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — State Residential Building Program standards for one- and two-family dwellings within Grainger County's jurisdictional boundaries.
      “Grainger County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967 [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in subdivisions governed by the Grainger County Subdivision Regulations, excluding lands within Bean Station, Blaine, and Rutledge city limits.

    • Public utility water and sewer must be used if reasonably accessible.
    • Greater area may be required for private sewage disposal when the county health officer finds drainage, soil, or other conditions creating potential health problems.
    • For lots not connected to public sewer or water, the Health Department uses high-intensity soil mapping to determine whether actual lot size must exceed the regulatory minimum.
    • Street frontage may be reduced to 40 feet on cul-de-sacs and to at least 40 feet with special Planning Commission approval.

    minimum lot area with water and sewer: >= 10000 square feet (Also requires at least 75 feet width at building setback line and 40 feet road frontage.) · minimum lot area with water and no sewer: >= 20000 square feet (Also requires at least 80 feet width at building setback line and 50 feet street-right-of-way width.) · minimum lot area with neither water nor sewer: >= 30000 square feet (Also requires at least 100 feet width at building setback line and 75 feet street-right-of-way width.)

    “Lots served by public water and sewerage system must have a minimum of 40 feet of road frontage and shall not be less than seventy-five (75) feet wide at the building setback line nor less than ten thousand (10,000) square feet in area.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New driveway or road connections to county roads in Grainger County.

    • A permit is required before construction.
    • A tile may be required.
    • The requirement is stated for county-road connections; access to state or municipal roads may be governed by other authorities.
    “If you are planning to or are in the process of constructing a new driveway or road that connects to any county road, you are required to have a permit and may need to install a tile. This tile will prevent water damage to your driveway/road and to the county road system.”
  • Permit processPartial

    New driveways or roads connecting to county roads in Grainger County.

    • A permit is required before construction.
    • A site visit by the Grainger County Highway Department is required as part of the process.
    • A tile may be required to prevent water damage to the driveway, road, and county road system.
    • The cited process applies to connections to county roads and does not establish requirements for state highways or municipal roads.
    “Please contact the Grainger County Highway Department at (865) 828-3314 for a site visit and permit before construction.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    The county Planning Commission administers only subdivision regulations for unincorporated land; no countywide zoning ordinance is in place.

    Grainger County Planning Commission ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • 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).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — An owner of property in Grainger County constructing a single residence for the owner’s own use.
      “may construct a single residence once every two years for his/her own use”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    A state Certificate of Occupancy for a one- or two-family dwelling in Grainger County’s opt-out jurisdiction when the State Fire Marshal’s Office inspection route is used.

    • The State Fire Marshal’s Office must inspect the dwelling during construction.
    • The dwelling must be determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards.
    • The official source describes issuance of a state CO through this optional opt-out inspection route and does not establish a universal county CO requirement.

    covered residential use: one- and two-family dwellings · certificate condition: dwelling meets statewide building construction safety standards

    “the State Fire Marshal’s Office will release a Certificate of Occupancy, often referred to as a “CO.””
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy and location or relocation of manufactured homes in Grainger County and elsewhere in Tennessee.
      “It is unlawful to occupy any manufactured home in this state unless the manufactured home has been installed by a person licensed by the commissioner to make such installation. It is unlawful for any person to locate or relocate any manufactured home in this state other than a home heretofore exempt, or a home previously installed and inspected according to rules in effect at the time of location on the site, unless the installation of the manufactured home has been done by a person licensed by the commissioner to make such installation.”
  • 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 — Subsurface sewage disposal system permitting and final inspection for Grainger County, including non-contract-county service.
      “Permit packages and Certificate of Completion Packages for sites located in the contract counties listed below should be submitted directly to the contract county. Contract Counties: Blount, Davidson, Hamilton, Jefferson, Knox, Madison, Sevier, Shelby & Williamson. [...] For all non-contract counties, applications and fee payments for Subsurface Sewage Disposal Construction Permits can be submitted through the service request form.”
    • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, modification, or repair of septic systems serving residential, commercial, industrial, retail, or accessory-building uses in Grainger County.
      “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. [...] You need to apply for a permit when you are planning to construct a new septic system, or repair or modify an existing system. This includes residential, commercial, and industrial properties.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Final inspection and approval of septic-system installations in Grainger 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Off-grid sanitation using a septic or alternative subsurface sewage disposal system in Grainger County.
      “A Conventional Septic System Permit is required for the installation of a conventional septic system (or approved substitute product) to serve a residence, retail or commercial building. [...] An Alternative Septic System Permit is required for the installation of an alternative septic system (i.e., LPP, Mound, Oxidation Lagoon, ATS/SDD) to serve a residence, retail or commercial building.”
  • 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

    County-zoning exemption for agricultural buildings or structures on qualifying agricultural land in unincorporated Grainger County.

    • The building or structure must be located on land devoted to agricultural uses.
    • It must be incidental to the agricultural enterprise.
    • The exemption does not apply on agricultural lands adjacent or in proximity to state or federal-aid highways, public airports, or public parks.
    • The exemption does not apply if the land is within the one-hundred-year flood plain.
    • The cited provision applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
    • The Attorney General opinion states there is no blanket exemption for cotton gins, grain elevators, slaughterhouses, processing plants, or milk bottling plants; those structures qualify only when both agricultural-use and incidental-to-enterprise requirements are met.
    “it must be located on lands “devoted to agricultural uses;” and (2) it must be “incidental to the agricultural enterprise.””
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    The Tennessee State Fire Marshal's residential building permit fee schedule when an owner or contractor voluntarily obtains a state building permit for a one- or two-family dwelling in Grainger County, an opt-out jurisdiction.

    • Grainger County is listed as OPT OUT of the State Residential Building Program.
    • The state permit is optional in this context: the official opt-out guidance says the owner or contractor may obtain a state building permit.
    • The published schedule includes an additional $50 fee for each additional $50,000 or fraction thereof above the table's maximum listed construction cost.
    • The construction-cost basis cannot be less than $60.57 per heated square foot.
    • An HVAC and Plumbing Inspection is required for all new construction.
    • A slab other than a Monolith Pour Inspection is required when slab and footing are cast separately.
    • The fee schedule does not establish a generally applicable countywide permit requirement for Grainger County.
    • The state jurisdiction list separately identifies Bean Station and Blaine as SRBP and Rutledge as OPT OUT; this claim does not apply those municipality-specific entries to the county aggregate.

    base fee for construction cost $0 to $5,000: 100 USD (State residential building permit fee schedule.) · additional fee for plumbing and HVAC inspection: 100 USD (Shown in the schedule; HVAC and Plumbing Inspection is required for all new construction.) · additional fee for slab other than Monolith Pour Inspection: 100 USD (Applies when slab and footing are cast separately.) · additional fee above maximum listed construction cost: per 50 USD per additional $50,000 or fraction thereof (Applies above the maximum listed construction cost.) · minimum construction-cost basis: >= 60.57 USD per heated square foot (The cost of construction cannot be less than this amount.)

    “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. [...] $0 to $5,000 | $100 | $100 | $100 [...] * The cost of construction cannot be less than $60.57 per heated square foot of construction”
    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”
  • 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Grainger County

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

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction located within the city limits of Bean Station, Grainger County, Tennessee, for uses covered by the State Residential Building Program.

    • The state application page states that a state residential building permit is required within the city limits of Bean Station.
    • Applicants must also check with the local government to determine whether local permits are required before construction.
    • The jurisdiction list separately identifies Bean Station as SRBP.
    “A state residential building permit is required if construction is located within the city limits of: Alexandria Allardt Bean Station Benton Bethel Springs Blaine”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — State residential building permits for covered residential construction within the city limits of Bean Station, Grainger County.
      “A state residential building permit is required if construction is located within the city limits of: Alexandria Allardt Bean Station”
    • Required — State residential building permits for covered residential construction within the city limits of Blaine, Grainger County.
      “A state residential building permit is required if construction is located within the city limits of: Alexandria Allardt Bean Station Benton Bethel Springs Blaine”
    • Required — Construction located within the city limits of Blaine, Grainger County, Tennessee, for uses covered by the State Residential Building Program.
      “A state residential building permit is required if construction is located within the city limits of: Alexandria Allardt Bean Station Benton Bethel Springs Blaine”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    State Residential Building Program status for Bean Station, Tennessee, within Grainger County.

    • Bean Station is listed as SRBP in the state residential jurisdictions table.
    • The table states that SRBP means the jurisdiction will participate in the State Residential Building Program.
    • The jurisdiction table states that its information is accurate as of 8/21/2026.
    “Bean Station | SRBP | [...] SRBP - The jurisdiction will participate in the State Residential Building Program”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State Residential Building Program participation for one- and two-family dwellings within Bean Station.
      “Bean Station | SRBP [...] SRBP - The jurisdiction will participate in the State Residential Building Program”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State Residential Building Program participation for one- and two-family dwellings within Blaine.
      “Blaine | SRBP [...] SRBP - The jurisdiction will participate in the State Residential Building Program”
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — State Residential Building Program participation for one- and two-family dwellings within Rutledge.
      “Rutledge | OPT OUT [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State Residential Building Program status for Blaine, Tennessee, within Grainger County.
      “Blaine | SRBP | [...] SRBP - The jurisdiction will participate in the State Residential Building Program”
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — State Residential Building Program status for Rutledge, Tennessee, within Grainger County.
      “Rutledge | OPT OUT | [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use within the City of Blaine, Grainger County, Tennessee.

    • The cited municipal code states that the ordinance and amendments are maintained as separate documents and are of record in the city recorder's office.
    • The code states that zoning-map amendments are of record in the city recorder's office.
    “Land use within the City of Blaine shall be governed by the ordinance titled "Zoning Ordinance for the City of Blaine, Tennessee, 1986" and any amendments thereto.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land within the Town of Bean Station, Tennessee.
      “Bean Station Zoning Book Zoning Permit Info Zoning Permit”
    • Present (with conditions) — Property within the town limits of Bean Station, Tennessee.
      “If a zoning permit is refused, the zoning official shall state such refusal in writing with cause. Before doing any excavation, work or placing/building any structure on property in the town limits of Bean Station a permit must be obtained.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land use within the City of Rutledge, Grainger County, Tennessee.
      “Land use within the City of Rutledge shall be governed by Ordinance #95, Nov. 2006, titled "Zoning Ordinance, Rutledge, Tennessee," and any amendments thereto.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Countywide zoning districts in Grainger County, including possible municipal or extraterritorial areas.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum floor area of a dwelling in unincorporated Grainger County.
  • Setbacks — Building and structure setbacks in unincorporated Grainger County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Grainger County.
  • Building height — Building-height limits in unincorporated Grainger County.
4 more unanswered
  • Living in an RV
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Subdividing land
  • 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 Grainger County, Tennessee

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

Grainger County scores 76/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: about 87,083 people within a 30-minute drive.

How much does land cost in Grainger County, Tennessee?

Land in Grainger County runs about $5,809 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Grainger County?

Grainger County gets about 50.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.6% of years.

How remote is Grainger County?

A representative private-land location has about 87,083 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,533,707 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 Grainger compares in Tennessee

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