Bolthole Index

McNairy County, Tennessee

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

81Index Score / 100
#14 of 95 in Tennessee

Unincorporated McNairy County, Tennessee is opted out of the State Residential Building Program for one- and two-family homes, but the state listing does not resolve whether a separate county-local building permit applies1. Owners and contractors may choose the state permit-and-inspection path2. TDEC handles septic permits, while county zoning remains unconfirmed3,4.

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

Unincorporated McNairy County is opted out of Tennessee's State Residential Building Program for one- and two-family dwellings.

Unincorporated McNairy County is opted out of Tennessee's State Residential Building Program for one- and two-family dwellings1. The state listing does not establish whether McNairy County requires a separate local building permit, so ask the County Mayor's Office before construction1,4. An owner or contractor may instead obtain a state building permit and request State Fire Marshal inspection during construction2. A dwelling that passes that voluntary state pathway can receive a State Fire Marshal Certificate of Occupancy; the source does not establish a general countywide certificate requirement2. Incorporated places have their own program statuses and may impose different requirements1. Septic approval, electrical-service documentation and state-highway access remain separate7,11.

Who handles building inspections in McNairy County, and how do you reach them?

For the optional state residential-inspection path, call the State Fire Marshal-designated inspector for McNairy County at 731-607-6395 or email savinspector@yahoo.com.

For the optional state residential-inspection path, call the State Fire Marshal-designated inspector for McNairy County at 731-607-6395 or email savinspector@yahoo.com1. The state list identifies McNairy County as opt out and publishes that contact1. A homeowner using the state program purchases the permit online or from an Issue Agent, then schedules foundation, framing or rough-in, and final inspections12. The state process includes one free re-inspection when a required inspection is not passed the first time12. Detached garages, sheds, barns and other detached structures not used for living purposes do not require the state residential permit, while custom site work such as a deck, patio or stoop at a manufactured or modular home does12. For land inside a municipality, contact the town before starting because municipal program status and local requirements can differ1.

Does McNairy County have zoning?

We could not confirm a county zoning ordinance or zoning map for unincorporated McNairy County.

We could not confirm a county zoning ordinance or zoning map for unincorporated McNairy County. Call the McNairy County Mayor's Office at 731-645-3472 and ask about the parcel's use, setbacks, minimum lot size, building height and floodplain contact4. Municipal rules are separate: Adamsville has an official zoning ordinance and map, while Selmer publishes a zoning map, municipal codes and a zoning-and-codes service5,6. Tennessee's agricultural exemption is not a blanket exemption from every land rule: it applies to a structure incidental to an agricultural enterprise on agricultural land, excludes certain land near highways, airports and parks, excludes the floodplain, and does not apply to municipal zoning13. Development in or near a mapped floodplain may also need local review before grading, filling, construction or placement of a manufactured home14.

How do septic permits work in McNairy County?

TDEC's Division of Water Resources, rather than McNairy County, issues permits to install, modify or repair subsurface sewage disposal systems here.

TDEC's Division of Water Resources, rather than McNairy County, issues permits to install, modify or repair subsurface sewage disposal systems here3,7. Start with the Jackson Environmental Field Office at (731) 512-1300; its official page lists McNairy County among the counties served8. The application asks for site and household information plus a sketch showing property lines, the house, water source, planned driveway and utilities15. Review generally takes 10 days and must be completed within 45 days after submission15. A new conventional system permit costs $400 for up to 1,000 gallons per day, while a new alternative-system permit at that flow costs $500; construction-inspection charges are separate15. Only 0.5% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so obtain the site evaluation before committing to a house location10. After installation, notify TDEC for inspection and approval before covering the system15.

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

We could not confirm whether long-term RV occupancy, private-land camping, tiny-home occupancy or manufactured-home placement is allowed in unincorporated McNairy County.

We could not confirm whether long-term RV occupancy, private-land camping, tiny-home occupancy or manufactured-home placement is allowed in unincorporated McNairy County. Before buying, call the County Mayor's Office at 731-645-3472 and describe the unit, its foundation or wheels, the planned occupancy and its wastewater service4. Inside Adamsville, travel-trailer parks are limited to the R-3 district, cover sites with two or more trailers, and allow camping or occupancy for no more than 14 days5. Adamsville's R-3 district also permits mobile homes in parks and on individual lots, subject to its detailed site and licensing rules5. Those Adamsville rules do not answer what is allowed outside the city. TDEC septic approval remains separate, and the state residential-permit treatment of manufactured homes does not itself establish land-use permission7,12.

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

Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside a municipality, because Adamsville and Selmer administer municipal zoning.

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside a municipality, because Adamsville and Selmer administer municipal zoning5,6.
  1. Ask the County Mayor's Office about county-local building approval, zoning, setbacks and the floodplain contact1,4.
  1. Arrange the TDEC septic site review early because only 0.5% of county soils are rated without severe conventional-drain-field limits10.
  1. Submit the septic application to TDEC and obtain approval before installation15.
  1. Decide whether to use the optional state building-inspection path and contact the designated inspector at 731-607-63951,2.
  1. Ask the Highway/Road Department at 731-645-3651 about access to a county road; a driveway on state highway right-of-way needs a TDOT permit11,16.
  1. Have TDEC inspect the septic system before it is covered and retain the approval records17.

What should you check before buying land in McNairy County?

Put septic suitability near the top of due diligence: only 0.5% of McNairy County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.

Put septic suitability near the top of due diligence: only 0.5% of McNairy County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field10. Confirm legal road access and ask the Highway/Road Department whether a proposed county-road entrance needs review; a state-highway entrance requires a TDOT permit11,16. Ask the County Mayor's Office to route questions about unincorporated zoning, setbacks and floodplain administration because those county-specific rules were not confirmed4. Development near a mapped floodplain may need local review before grading, filling or construction14. If a tract was divided, check the wastewater side carefully: McNairy County is reported as not regulating subdivisions, while Adamsville, Bethel Springs and Selmer have subdivision regulations, and TDEC can still require a septic subdivision evaluation17,18. The land is 71.7% wooded, and 69.5% is at a slope of 15% or less, so walk the actual homesite and access route10.

Watch-outs

  • McNairy County's state-program opt-out does not prove that every county-local permit is unnecessary or cancel separate septic, utility-documentation and state-highway entrance requirements1,7,11.
  • County zoning, setbacks, minimum lot size, RV occupancy and tiny-home occupancy remain unconfirmed for unincorporated McNairy County; ask the County Mayor's Office before buying or building4.
  • Only 0.5% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so a parcel-specific site evaluation can materially change the build plan10.

Sources

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

  1. Residential Permits: Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors
  2. Residential Permits: Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors
  3. TDEC - Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems (SSDS) (2026 county census)
  4. McNairy County Mayor's Office (mcnairycountytn.org)
  5. Adamsville Zoning Ordinance
  6. Building Inspector — Town of Selmer
  7. Septic System Construction Permit
  8. Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Jackson Environmental Field Office (tn.gov)
  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 Entrance Permits (Tennessee statewide rule)
  12. Residential Permits (Tennessee statewide rule)
  13. Exemption from County Zoning Regulation for Buildings on Land Used for Agriculture
  14. tn.gov
  15. Septic System Construction Permit
  16. McNairy County Highway/Road Department (mcnairycountytn.org)
  17. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions
  18. Dedications along Existing Public Rights-of-Way, Balancing Property Rights with Local Authority over Land Use Regulations

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, McNairy County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleMcNairy CountyChester CountyHardin CountyHardeman CountyHenderson CountyMadison CountyDecatur County
Building permitLimitedRequiredLimitedRequiredNot requiredRequiredNot required
County zoningNoYesNoYesNot publishedYesNo
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDEC

County locator

McNairy County in Tennessee

81
County map
McNairy County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How McNairy County scores

81 / 100 · #14 of 95 in Tennessee · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion50100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency73100% ev.
Admin Boringness87100% ev.
Durability59100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost90100% 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 →

$177kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$2,954Land / acre
56.8"Annual rain
4% of yrsSevere drought
14.9 / yr (+13.4)Mid-century 100°F days
15.9 daysMid-century dry spell
2.46" (+7.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.51×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,724Home insurance / yr
0.5% / yrInsurance growth
1.02%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
34,683People within 30 min
2,556,886People within 2 hr
45,100Radius comparison (15 mi)
46.5People / sq mi
0.3%Federal land
69.5%Land at 15% slope or less
0.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
1,887 acWorkable land screen
71.7%Wooded land
51.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
60.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in McNairy 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 Bethel Springs · Town of Eastview · Finger · Town of Guys · Town of Michie · Town of Milledgeville · Ramer · Town of Stantonville

Answers from the rulebook for McNairy County

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

McNairy County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    One- and two-family residential construction in unincorporated McNairy County under the Tennessee State Residential Building Program.

    • The Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office list identifies McNairy County as OPT OUT of the state residential building program.
    • The cited state source does not establish whether McNairy County or another local authority requires a separate local building permit.
    • Municipal jurisdictions within McNairy County may have different statuses and requirements.
    “McNairy County | OPT OUT [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  • Building code adoptedNot adopted (with conditions)

    State residential building-code standards for one- and two-family dwellings within McNairy County’s jurisdictional boundaries.

    • The Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office page lists McNairy County as OPT OUT; the page defines OPT OUT as meaning the jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the State Residential Building Program.
    • The source lists incorporated places separately and their designations differ: Adamsville and Selmer are EXEMPT; Bethel Springs, Eastview, Finger, Guys, Enville, Milledgeville, and Ramer are SRBP; Michie and Stantonville are OPT OUT.
    • In an opt-out jurisdiction, an owner or contractor may obtain a state building permit and request State Fire Marshal’s Office inspection during construction; if the dwelling meets statewide standards, the State Fire Marshal’s Office may issue a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The jurisdiction list states that its information is accurate as of 8/21/2026.
    • No fee is stated in the cited jurisdiction-list excerpt.
    “McNairy County | OPT OUT [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — One- and two-family dwellings in the county's opt-out jurisdiction; incorporated municipalities have separately listed residential-code statuses.
      “McNairy County | OPT OUT | Terry Hulen | savinspector@yahoo.com (kiloredman@aol.com) | 731-607-6395”
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — McNairy County's participation in Tennessee's State Residential Building Program.
      “McNairy County | OPT OUT | Terry Hulen | savinspector@yahoo.com (kiloredman@aol.com) | 731-607-6395”
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — McNairy County's participation in Tennessee's State Residential Building Program for one- and two-family dwellings.
      “McNairy County | OPT OUT | Terry Hulen | savinspector@yahoo.com (kiloredman@aol.com) | 731-607-6395 [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    • Partial — One- and two-family residential construction in McNairy County's unincorporated area under Tennessee's State Residential Building Program.
      “McNairy County | OPT OUT | Terry Hulen | savinspector@yahoo.com (kiloredman@aol.com) | 731-607-6395”
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — Application and enforcement of Tennessee statewide residential building-construction standards for one- and two-family dwellings in unincorporated McNairy County.
      “McNairy County | OPT OUT [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  • InspectionsLimited

    One- and two-family dwellings in unincorporated McNairy County that voluntarily seek State Fire Marshal inspection while the county is an opt-out jurisdiction.

    • The owner or contractor may request inspection by obtaining a state building permit.
    • Inspection is available for both new construction and additions to existing homes.
    • If the dwelling is determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards, the State Fire Marshal’s Office will release a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The source does not establish that inspection is mandatory in McNairy County’s opt-out area.
    • Municipal jurisdictions within McNairy County may have different statuses and requirements.
    “located within an “opt-out” or “non-code” jurisdiction to request the State Fire Marshal’s Office to inspect”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    One- and two-family dwellings in unincorporated McNairy County whose owner requests State Fire Marshal inspection in the opt-out jurisdiction.

    • A state Certificate of Occupancy is released if the dwelling is determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards.
    • The source describes the certificate as resulting from a requested state inspection; it does not establish a general countywide requirement to obtain a certificate before occupancy.
    • Municipal jurisdictions within McNairy County may have different requirements.
    “Their home may now be inspected by an inspector with the State Fire Marshal’s Office during the construction process, both for new construction and additions to existing homes. If the one- or two-family dwelling is determined to meet the statewide building construction safety standards, the State Fire Marshal’s Office will release a Certificate of Occupancy, often referred to as a “CO.””
  • Subdividing landNot regulated

    County subdivision regulations in McNairy County, including unincorporated areas; incorporated municipalities may have separate rules.

    • The official Tennessee TACIR table separately identifies Adamsville, Bethel Springs, and Selmer as cities with subdivision regulations.
    • The source identifies the county-level status as No; it does not establish the contents or current status of any municipal regulations.
    “McNairy No Adamsville, Bethel Springs, Selmer Eastview, Finger, Guys, Michie, Milledgeville, Ramer, Stantonville”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county planning/zoning office or building-codes department is listed among McNairy County's departments or officials, indicating unincorporated areas are not county-zoned.

    UT CTAS - McNairy County Officials Directory ↗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).”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner constructing a single residence for the owner's own use in McNairy County, subject to Tennessee contractor-licensing and permitting rules.
      “an owner of property may construct a single residence once every two years for his/her own use”
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner constructing a single residence in Tennessee, including applicable residential construction in McNairy County.
      “may construct a single residence once every two years for his/her own use [...] anyone hired by the homeowner whose portion is $25,000 or more”
  • 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 — Subsurface sewage disposal systems serving property in McNairy County.
      “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”
    • 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, modification, or repair of septic systems serving residential, commercial, and industrial properties in McNairy 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation of septic systems in McNairy 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
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Private septic sanitation serving a residence, retail or commercial building, including accessory buildings, in McNairy 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.”
  • 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."”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Electrical service requests for a proposed house or establishment in McNairy County.
      “This bill requires that before the electrical inspector can process a request for electrical service, he/she must be provided with written notification that the proposed house or establishment is served by a public sewer system, or, that a septic system permit has been applied for, or, that an existing septic system will be used.”
    • 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 in Tennessee counties, including McNairy County, to the extent the county-zoning exemption in Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-114 applies.

    • 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 on 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 there is no blanket exemption for cotton gins, grain elevators, slaughterhouses, processing plants, or milk bottling plants.
    • The statute applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
    “only if the structure is located on lands devoted to agricultural purposes and is incidental to the underlying agricultural enterprise.”
    2 more reviewed findings 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.”
  • 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”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Development in or near mapped floodplains in Tennessee communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program, including activities potentially relevant to McNairy County where a local floodplain ordinance applies.
      “Development in or near a mapped floodplain may require local review before work begins. This may include construction, repairs, substantial improvements, placement of fill, grading, excavation, manufactured homes, accessory structures, or other development activity.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    State-issued subsurface sewage disposal system permits applicable to property in McNairy County.

    • A septic construction permit is required for installation of a subsurface sewage disposal system or repair of an existing faulty system.
    • The published fee schedule distinguishes conventional, alternative, experimental, and repair permits and inspections.
    • The page states that permit applications and fees are sent to the Division of Water Resources at the appropriate Environmental Field Office.

    new conventional or large diameter graveless pipe SSDS permit: 400 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($100 for each additional 1000 gallons per day flow) · new conventional SSDS construction inspection: 100 USD · new alternative SSDS permit: 500 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($150 for each additional 1000 gallons per day flow) · alternative SSDS construction inspection: 200 USD · experimental SSDS permit: 500 USD · repair permit: no permit fee · repair construction inspection: 100 USD

    “Experimental SSDS Permit | $500 | Repair Permit | No permit fee”
    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”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Residential permit purchase and inspection process under Tennessee's State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program.

    • The state program applies to one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses only in areas without the stated local-code exemption or opt-out.
    • A first-time CORE user must register for an account.
    • A building permit must be purchased online or at a local Issue Agent.
    • Inspections cover the foundation before pouring, framing/rough-in construction, and final construction.
    • One free re-inspection is available; each additional re-inspection requires an additional fee.
    • A homeowner may build a home only if it will be the homeowner's residence, not sold or leased, and the homeowner has not received a homeowner building permit during the preceding 24 months.
    • Detached garages, sheds, barns, and other detached structures not used for living purposes do not require a state residential building permit.
    • A permit is not required for installation of a manufactured or modular home, but custom site work such as a deck, patio, or stoop requires a permit.

    effective date for permit requirement for additions over 30 square feet: 2011-10-01 (Applies to additions to existing homes.) · free re-inspections per project: 1 inspection (Available if a required inspection is not passed the first time.)

    “A building permit must be purchased online or at a local Issue Agent. The cost of the building permit is based on the estimated cost”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — State-issued septic-system permit process applicable to property in McNairy County.
      “The review process generally takes 10 days and must be completed within 45 days”
  • 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 McNairy County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning within the Town of Selmer, an incorporated municipality in McNairy County.

    • The official notice concerns a proposed amendment to Selmer's Official Zoning Map.
    • The notice identifies the affected property as part of McNairy County Tax Map 69 between Tennessee Avenue and U.S. Highway 45.
    • The proposed change is from R-2 (Medium Density Residential) to M-1 (Industrial).
    • The hearing was scheduled before the Selmer Board of Mayor and Aldermen for September 9, 2025, at Selmer City Hall, pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated Section 13-7-203.
    • The notice states that the proposed ordinance would be available for public examination at Selmer City Hall.

    rezoning classification change: R-2 to M-1

    “Building Inspector / Code Enforcement [...] Zoning and Codes One-Stop Shop [...] Zoning Map”
    6 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning within the City of Adamsville, an incorporated municipality in McNairy County.
      “Adamsville Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance Adamsville Subdivision Regulations Adamsville Zoning Ordinance”
    • Present (with conditions) — Property within the corporate limits of the Town of Adamsville, McNairy County, Tennessee.
      “This Ordinance shall be known and may be cited as the Zoning Ordinance of Adamsville, Tennessee; and the map herein referred to, which is identified by the title "Official Zoning Map, Adamsville, Tennessee", and all explanatory matters thereon are hereby adopted and made a part of this Ordinance.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning within the incorporated City of Adamsville, McNairy County, Tennessee.
      “Permits, Licences, Taxes and Zoning >View Zoning Ordinance | >View Permit Fees City Hall is responsible for the collection of all City revenue. This includes property taxes, business license, building permits, and sign permits.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning within the corporate limits of Adamsville, Tennessee, a municipality in McNairy County.
      “This Ordinance shall be known and may be cited as the Zoning Ordinance of Adamsville, Tennessee; and the map herein referred to, which is identified by the title "Official Zoning Map, Adamsville, Tennessee", and all explanatory matters thereon are hereby adopted and made a part of this Ordinance. The Official Zoning Map shall be located in the City Hall.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning and code administration within the incorporated Town of Selmer, McNairy County, Tennessee.
      “Permit Applications Zoning and Codes One-Stop Shop Flood Plane Application Building Application Sign Permit Application Municipal Codes Zoning Map Planning Commission Meetings”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land and buildings within the corporate limits of the Town of Adamsville, which is in McNairy County, Tennessee.
      “An ordinance, in pursuance of the authority granted by Section 13-7-201 through 13-7-210 of the Tennessee Code Annotated, and for the purpose of promoting the public health, safety, morals, convenience, order, prosperity and general welfare; to provide for the establishment of districts or zones within the corporate limits of the Town of Adamsville;”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Travel-trailer parks in the City of Adamsville's R-3 Mobile Home Residential District.

    • The ordinance defines a travel-trailer park as land within Adamsville containing two or more travel trailers occupied by camping or for periods not exceeding fourteen days.
    • The use is permitted only in the R-3 district.
    • Travel-trailer parks must comply with all state laws pertaining to travel-trailer courts and all other city codes and ordinances pertaining to mobile-home parks.

    maximum occupancy period: <= 14 days (Applies to travel trailers in a defined travel-trailer park.) · minimum number of travel trailers: >= 2 trailers

    “Travel Trailer Park. The term travel trailer park shall mean any plot of ground within the Town of Adamsville on which two (2) or more travel trailers, occupied by camping or periods not to exceed fourteen (14) days are located.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured/mobile-home occupancy in the City of Adamsville's R-3 Mobile Home Residential District.

    • The R-3 district permits single-family mobile homes in mobile-home parks and mobile homes on individual lots.
    • Mobile-home parks require compliance with the ordinance's development, site-plan, utility, screening, parking, inspection, licensing, and health/environmental requirements.
    • A mobile-home park license is required before operation; the application must include a valid Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation permit and an approved site plan.
    • Mobile homes may not serve as transient lodging.

    minimum mobile-home-park area: 5 acres · minimum lot area for mobile home in park: 4500 square feet · minimum lot area for mobile home on individual lot: 6000 square feet

    “Uses Permitted [...] 1. Single-family mobile homes in mobile home parks. [...] 5. Mobile Homes on individual lots”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts applicable in McNairy County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Residential dwellings in unincorporated McNairy County, Tennessee.
  • Minimum lot size — Residential lots in unincorporated McNairy County, Tennessee.
  • Setbacks — Structures in unincorporated McNairy County, Tennessee.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage requirements in unincorporated McNairy County.
3 more unanswered
  • Building height
  • 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 McNairy County, Tennessee

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

McNairy County scores 81/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property.

How much does land cost in McNairy County, Tennessee?

Land in McNairy County runs about $2,954 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in McNairy County?

McNairy County gets about 56.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4% of years.

How remote is McNairy County?

A representative private-land location has about 34,683 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,556,886 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 McNairy compares in Tennessee

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