Bolthole Index

Montgomery County, Tennessee

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

71Index Score / 100
#50 of 95 in Tennessee

Unincorporated Montgomery County, Tennessee requires a home building permit from Montgomery County Building and Codes and applies county zoning1,2. Inside Clarksville, the city handles building permits and zoning; TDEC handles septic permits throughout Montgomery County3,4. County-permitted construction needs approved inspections and a Certificate of Occupancy before moving in5,6.

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

Unincorporated Montgomery County requires a building permit to construct, alter, repair, enlarge, move, renovate, demolish or permanently place a building or structure, including homes, mobile homes, barns, sheds and additions.

Unincorporated Montgomery County requires a building permit to construct, alter, repair, enlarge, move, renovate, demolish or permanently place a building or structure, including homes, mobile homes, barns, sheds and additions1,10. County Building and Codes enforces the adopted 2018 International Codes, including an amended energy code effective in 20247,11. The permit holder must request inspections and receive approval before advancing to the next construction phase9. All required inspections must pass before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued5. A homeowner may obtain a county building or plumbing permit1. An owner may build a single residence once every 2 years for personal use, excluding resale, lease or rent; a hired prime contractor or construction manager still needs the applicable license for work of $25,000 or more6.

Who issues building permits in Montgomery County, Tennessee?

Montgomery County Building and Codes issues building permits outside city jurisdictions.

Montgomery County Building and Codes issues building permits outside city jurisdictions1. Inside Clarksville, the city issues building permits; septic permits remain with TDEC3,4. Reach County Building and Codes at 931-648-5718 or visit 350 Pageant Lane, Suite 309, Clarksville, TN 3704010. County building permits go to the property owner or licensed contractor and must be paid in full by check or cash9. Site-plan review or evidence of proper sewage disposal may be required before issuance9. Property under 5 acres outside a platted subdivision requires a recorded minor plat with all signatures before building-permit issuance10. Building and Codes also requires the road bond and an Adequate Facilities Tax receipt marked “Paid in Full” before issuing the building permit10.

Does Montgomery County have zoning?

Montgomery County zoning applies outside Clarksville’s corporate boundaries.

Montgomery County zoning applies outside Clarksville’s corporate boundaries2. Inside Clarksville, city zoning applies; TDEC remains the septic-permit authority3,4. County dimensions depend on the district and use: R-1 dwelling lots require 15,000 square feet and R-1A dwelling lots require 12,000 square feet, subject to exceptions; on-lot septic raises the minimum to 20,000 square feet2. R-1 and R-1A front/street-side setbacks are 50 feet, subject to exceptions2. Dwelling and accessory coverage is capped at 30% in R-1 and 35% in R-1A; principal-use height is capped at 35 feet, with an agricultural-building height exception2. The 480-square-foot floor-area minimum applies specifically to mobile homes in RM-1 and RM-22. Ask the Regional Planning Commission to confirm the parcel’s district, allowed use, dimensions and overlays at 931-645-7448, RPC@cmcrpc.com, or 329 Main Street, Clarksville, TN 3704012.

How do septic permits work in Montgomery County?

TDEC's Division of Water Resources handles septic permits and septic inspections throughout Montgomery County, including addresses inside cities.

TDEC's Division of Water Resources handles septic permits and septic inspections throughout Montgomery County, including addresses inside cities4. A septic permit is required to construct, modify or repair a residential, commercial or industrial septic system8,13. Montgomery County Building and Codes directs applicants to the Environment Groundwater office at 615-687-700010. Before the system is covered, the installer must schedule a final septic inspection with the local Environmental Scientist; approval results in a Certificate of Completion8. A septic-served house needs that completion certificate before Montgomery County will issue its Certificate of Occupancy5. Only 34.1% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early purchase contingency14.

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

On a lot with a dwelling or in a residential district in unincorporated Montgomery County, a camping or travel trailer may be parked but cannot be occupied permanently unless the zoning resolution or another resolution authorizes it.

On a lot with a dwelling or in a residential district in unincorporated Montgomery County, a camping or travel trailer may be parked but cannot be occupied permanently unless the zoning resolution or another resolution authorizes it2. A camping or travel trailer parked or stored longer than 72 hours must be behind the front building line2. At a recreational campground in the unincorporated county, a trailer or tent site may be occupied for no more than 21 days2. We could not confirm a separate tiny-home occupancy rule; ask County Building and Codes and the Regional Planning Commission before buying or building. A small dwelling still faces county building permits, building inspections and district-specific zoning standards1,2,9. Ask the Regional Planning Commission whether temporary RV occupancy during construction is authorized for the parcel.

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

Ask the Regional Planning Commission to confirm the parcel's county zoning district, allowed use and dimensional standards.

  1. Ask the Regional Planning Commission to confirm the parcel's county zoning district, allowed use and dimensional standards2,7.
  2. If property under five acres is not in a platted subdivision, complete and record the required minor plat before the county building permit is issued10.
  3. Apply to TDEC for the septic permit and site evaluation8.
  4. For a county-road driveway, obtain the Highway Department driveway permit and road bond; for a state-highway driveway, contact the state highway office10.
  5. Pay the Adequate Facilities Tax and complete any site-plan review or other prerequisites, then have the owner or licensed contractor obtain and pay for the county building permit9,10.
  6. Request each building inspection before advancing to the next construction phase, and have the septic system inspected before it is covered8,9.
  7. After all final inspections are approved, request the Certificate of Occupancy before moving in6,9.

What to check before you buy land in Montgomery County

Start with zoning, plat status, driveway access, flood exposure and septic feasibility.

Start with zoning, plat status, driveway access, flood exposure and septic feasibility. Montgomery County's minimum lot size, setbacks, lot coverage and height depend on the zoning district and use2. Property under five acres that is not in a platted subdivision requires a recorded minor plat before county building-permit issuance10. Only 34.1% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so obtain a site-specific septic evaluation before closing14. Building, grading or placing fill in a floodplain requires a floodplain permit, and Building and Codes must review county and FEMA requirements for land in or next to a designated floodplain or beside a stream15. A county-road driveway requires a Highway Department driveway permit and road bond before the building permit, while a state-highway driveway goes through the state highway office10. A County Utility District connection is inspected with the final building inspection5. We could not confirm a universal water or sewer connection requirement; ask Montgomery County Building and Codes and the serving utility before closing.

Watch-outs

  • RM-1 and RM-2 are intended for platted residential subdivisions and not for a mobile home on an individual unplatted parcel2.
  • A camping or travel trailer on a residential lot cannot be occupied permanently unless another county rule authorizes it; campground stays are limited to 21 days2.
  • Do not read the agricultural-building height exception as a blanket exemption from building permits, zoning, septic or floodplain review2.

Sources

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

  1. Building and Codes FAQ
  2. Zoning Resolution of Montgomery County, Tennessee
  3. Clarksville: Frequently Asked Questions | Clarksville, TN (Montgomery County)
  4. Permit Types
  5. Required Inspections
  6. Residential Building Permit Important Notices
  7. Building and Codes
  8. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions
  9. montgomerytn.gov
  10. Permit Types
  11. Adopted Codes
  12. Clarksville-Montgomery County Regional Planning Commission (cmcrpc.com)
  13. Permit Types
  14. 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
  15. Flood Information

Written October 11, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 3 of the 5 neighbors with published rules, Montgomery County has countywide zoning.

RuleMontgomery CountyHouston CountyStewart CountyCheatham CountyRobertson CountyDickson CountyHumphreys County
Building permitRequiredNot requiredNot requiredRequiredRequiredRequiredNot required
County zoningYesNoNoYesYesYesNot published
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTN Dept. of Env. & Conservation

County locator

Montgomery County in Tennessee

71
County map
Montgomery County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Montgomery County scores

71 / 100 · #50 of 95 in Tennessee · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion42100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency73100% ev.
Admin Boringness46100% ev.
Durability72100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost79100% 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 →

$323kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$5,228Land / acre
52.3"Annual rain
3.6% of yrsSevere drought
11.9 / yr (+10.7)Mid-century 100°F days
14.8 daysMid-century dry spell
2.43" (+10.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.63×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,761Home insurance / yr
2.2% / yrInsurance growth
1.22%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
49,965People within 30 min
3,110,282People within 2 hr
225,267Radius comparison (15 mi)
444.9People / sq mi
12.8%Federal land
66.9%Land at 15% slope or less
34.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
115,366 acWorkable land screen
60.2%Wooded land
62.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Montgomery 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.

Answers from the rulebook for Montgomery County

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

Montgomery County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, moving, renovation, demolition, or permanent placement of a building or structure in the county jurisdiction.

    • County Building and Codes jurisdiction is outside city jurisdictions.
    • Permits must be issued to the property owner or licensed contractor.
    • Permits must be paid in full by check or cash at issuance.
    • Prior site-plan or other approvals may be required, including evidence of proper sewage disposal.
    “Whenever a person wishes to construct, alter, repair, enlarge, move, renovate, demolish, or permanently place any building, or structure.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Residential building permit process administered by Montgomery County Building and Codes.
      “Building Permits - for single family homes with basements/garages, detached garages, additions, swimming pools (inground and above ground), mobile homes, barns/sheds/utility buildings, renovations, fire restoration.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner constructing a single residence under the county residential permit process.

    • The owner may construct one single residence once every two years.
    • The residence must be for the owner's own use and not for resale, lease, or rent.
    • A hired prime contractor or construction manager is not exempt from license requirements for work of $25,000 or more.

    frequency: per 2 years (single residence for owner's own use) · contractor threshold: >= 25000 USD (hired prime contractor or construction manager is not exempt)

    “an owner of property may construct a single residence, once every two (2) years, for their own use”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — A homeowner obtaining the homeowner's own county building or plumbing permit.
      “Yes. A homeowner may obtain his or her own building or plumbing permits.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    County building-code jurisdiction administered by Montgomery County Building and Codes.

    • The county page states adoption of the 2018 IBC, IRC, IPC, IFGC, IEC, IPMC, and 2009 ICC/ANSI A117.1.
    • The page states enforcement began January 1, 2021.
    • Municipal jurisdictions may have separate code administration.
    “On October 12, 2020, the Resolution to adopt the 2018 IBC, IRC, IPC, IFGC, IEC, IPMC, as well as the 2009 ICC/ANSI A117.1 Accessible & Usable Buildings & Facility Code was passed. The effective date of the 2018 edition of the International Codes Resolution will take effect and be enforced beginning January 1, 2021.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — County Building and Codes jurisdiction outside city jurisdictions.
      “On October 12, 2020, the Resolution to adopt the 2018 IBC, IRC, IPC, IFGC, IEC, IPMC”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — County building-code jurisdiction outside city jurisdictions.
      “Adopted by Resolution 24-1-2 effective January 8, 2024 2018 International Energy Conservation Code with amendments Adopted by Resolution 20-10-6 effective January 1, 2021 2018 International Building Code 2018 International Residential Code 2018 International Plumbing Code 2018 International Mechanical Code 2018 International Fire Code”
  • InspectionsRequired

    County-permitted construction in the county jurisdiction outside city jurisdictions.

    • Required inspections include footing or monolithic slab, foundation, rough-in plumbing when applicable, framing, final plumbing when applicable, and final inspection.
    • The permittee is responsible for scheduling inspections.
    • A $50 reinspection fee applies after more than one rejection.

    reinspection fee: 50 USD (after more than one rejection)

    “The adopted codes require that all work must be inspected at specific intervals during the construction process by a certified building inspector.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Building construction in the county Building and Codes jurisdiction.
      “The adopted codes require that all work must be inspected at specific intervals during the construction process by a certified building inspector. It is the Building Permit Holder’s responsibility to request inspections and receive proper approvals from the Building and Codes Department prior to moving to the next phase of construction.”
    • Required — Building inspections for permitted construction under Montgomery County Building and Codes.
      “It is the permit holder's responsibility to call for above inspections and re-inspections.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Occupancy of buildings subject to Montgomery County Building and Codes inspection.

    • All required inspections, including re-inspections, must be approved.
    • For a septic-served house, a certificate of completion is required before the certificate of occupancy.
    • For a flood-lot house, a flood certificate is required before the certificate of occupancy.
    “No certificate of occupancy will be issued unless all required inspections have been approved, including re-inspections.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Occupancy of county-permitted construction outside city jurisdictions.
      “A Certificate of Occupancy must be requested and issued prior to occupying.”
    • Required — Occupancy of completed construction subject to county building-code administration.
      “A Certificate of Occupancy must be requested and issued prior to occupying.”
    • Required — Use and occupancy after county-regulated building work is completed.
      “At the completion of the project, after ALL final inspections have been made and approved the permit holder can request at that time a Certificate of Occupancy form to authorize Use and Occupancy.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Montgomery County zoning resolution in the county jurisdiction outside city jurisdictions.

    • The county Building Commissioner administers the county zoning resolution.
    • Incorporated municipalities may administer separate municipal rules.
    “In addition, the codes enforcement division enforces provisions of zoning resolutions of Montgomery County, adopted by the County Commission.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning in the unincorporated area of Montgomery County, excluding the corporate boundaries of Clarksville.
      “The provisions of this Zoning Resolution shall apply to all land within the jurisdiction of the Montgomery County, Tennessee outside of the corporate boundaries of the City of Clarksville, Tennessee.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Published county zoning districts and district-specific use standards in the unincorporated area.

    • The zoning resolution identifies district-specific standards, including the AG District recreational campground provisions.
    • Uses may be permitted on review and subject to Board of Zoning Appeals procedures.
    “5.2.6.6 Recreational Campground (AG District):”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning districts and district development standards outside Clarksville corporate boundaries.
      “3.2 ESTABLISHMENT OF ZONING DISTRICTS [...] 3.3 ZONING DISTRICTS DESCRIBED”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Mobile homes in the RM-1 and RM-2 districts.

    • The cited minimum is district-specific and applies to the mobile-home table.
    • Other districts and dwelling types may have different standards.

    minimum floor area: >= 480 square feet (RM-1 and RM-2 mobile-home table)

    “Minimum Floor Area 480 square feet 480 square feet”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Minimum lot area in Montgomery County zoning districts.

    • Requirements vary by zoning district and use.
    • For R-1/R-1A residential tables, the source states 15,000 and 12,000 square feet for dwellings and accessories, with a 20,000-square-foot minimum when served by on-lot septic.
    • Other districts have different standards and exceptions.

    minimum lot area for R-1 dwellings and accessories: 15000 sq ft (subject to Section 4.2.3 exceptions; on-lot septic requires at least 20,000 sq. ft.) · minimum lot area for R-1A dwellings and accessories: 12000 sq ft (subject to Section 4.2.3 exceptions; on-lot septic requires at least 20,000 sq. ft.)

    “• Dwelling and Accessories Thereto 15,000 sq. ft. (1) (3) 12,000 sq. ft. (1) (3)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential and mobile-home districts in the unincorporated county zoning jurisdiction.

    • Setbacks vary by zoning district and use.
    • The zoning tables identify exceptions in §4.2.1.
    • Cluster-development setbacks may be increased by drainage or utility easements.

    RM-1 front/street-side setback: 50 feet (all uses in RM-1/RM-2 table) · RM-1 mobile-home side setback: 10; total 30 feet (RM-1) · RM-2 mobile-home side setback: 8; total 20 feet (RM-2)

    “Mobile Homes (T = The Total for Both Side Yard Setbacks) 10 feet; T=30 feet 8 feet; T=20 feet”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Maximum lot coverage in Montgomery County zoning districts.

    • Coverage varies by zoning district and use.
    • The residential table provides separate coverage percentages for dwellings/accessories and other principal uses.

    maximum lot coverage for R-1 dwelling and accessories: 30 percent · maximum lot coverage for R-1A dwelling and accessories: 35 percent

    “Maximum Lot Coverage (All Combined Uses) • Dwelling and Accessories Thereto 30 percent 35 percent”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential and mobile-home districts in the unincorporated county zoning jurisdiction.
      “Mobile Home & Unattached Accessory Uses 40 percent 40 percent”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Structures in the unincorporated county zoning districts.

    • RM-1/RM-2 mobile homes have a 20-foot maximum; single-family dwellings and other principal uses have a 35-foot maximum.
    • Agricultural buildings have no height limitation under the cited table note.
    • Other exceptions and overlay restrictions may apply.

    mobile-home maximum height: 20 feet (RM-1 and RM-2) · single-family dwelling maximum height: 35 feet (RM-1 and RM-2)

    “Mobile Homes 20 feet (2) 20 feet (2) [...] Single Family Dwellings and Other Principal Uses 35 feet (2) 35 feet (2)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Recreational campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks in the unincorporated area of Montgomery County.

    • The zoning resolution applies to the unincorporated area of Montgomery County.
    • A recreational campground requires Board of Zoning Appeals review in the AG District.
    • The owner must submit a site plan showing ownership, tract location and boundaries, acreage, trailer/tent-site locations, sewage disposal and water supply, restrooms and showers, and garbage/refuse collection points.
    • There may be no more than ten trailer/RV or tent sites per acre.
    • There must be at least twenty-five feet between trailers with tow vehicles and other trailers with tow vehicles, and at least twenty feet between tents.
    • No trailer or tent may be located within a front, side, or rear yard setback.
    • Travel trailer camps must comply with Tennessee Department of Health Organized Camps requirements for water supply, sewage disposal, refuse storage, collection, and disposal.
    • A greenbelt planting strip at least fifteen feet wide is required along property lines except where it would create a traffic hazard, with the stated planting and screening requirements.
    • Trailer/tent sites may not be occupied for more than twenty-one days.
    • The source does not establish whether one recreational vehicle on an individual private parcel, outside a defined campground or recreational vehicle park, may be occupied long-term.

    maximum trailer/RV or tent sites: <= 10 sites per acre · minimum separation between trailers with tow vehicles: >= 25 feet · minimum separation between tents: >= 20 feet · maximum trailer/tent site occupancy: <= 21 days · minimum greenbelt planting strip: >= 15 feet (except in areas where the strip would create a traffic hazard)

    “Applicable to the Unincorporated Area [...] 9. Trailer/tent sites may not be occupied for more than twenty-one (21) days.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Camping or travel trailer occupancy on a lot occupied by a dwelling or on a lot in a residential district in unincorporated Montgomery County.
      “Camping or travel trailer, hauling trailer, or boat trailer are all permitted to be parked on the premises. A camping or travel trailer shall not be parked or stored for more than seventy-two (72) hours unless it is located behind the front building line, nor shall such trailer be occupied permanently while it is parked or stored in any area except as authorized by this or other Resolutions.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping at a recreational campground in the AG zoning district.

    • The ordinance regulates recreational campgrounds through site-plan and campground standards.
    • Trailer/tent sites may not be occupied for more than twenty-one days.
    • Water, sewage disposal, refuse, spacing, setbacks, and landscaping requirements apply.

    maximum occupancy duration: <= 21 days (Trailer/tent sites at a recreational campground.)

    “Trailer/tent sites may not be occupied for more than twenty-one (21) days.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured/mobile-home residential occupancy under the Montgomery County Zoning Resolution in county-regulated districts.

    • RM-1 and RM-2 are intended for platted single-family or mobile-home residential subdivisions.
    • The resolution states that RM-1 and RM-2 are not intended for mobile homes on individual, unplatted parcels.
    • The mobile-home table specifies 9,000 square feet minimum lot area in RM-1 and RM-2, 75-foot minimum lot width, 50-foot front or side-street setback, mobile-home side setbacks of 10 feet total 30 feet in RM-1 and 8 feet total 20 feet in RM-2, 40 percent maximum lot coverage, 480 square feet minimum floor area, and 20-foot maximum height.
    • If served by an on-lot septic system, the minimum lot area must be at least 20,000 square feet.
    • All mobile homes placed in Montgomery County must meet Tennessee State Fire Marshall Division of Manufactured Housing requirements under TCA 68-126-4.

    minimum lot area for mobile homes in RM-1/RM-2: >= 9000 sq ft (If served by an on-lot septic system, minimum lot area is at least 20,000 square feet.) · minimum lot width for mobile homes in RM-1/RM-2: >= 75 feet · mobile-home maximum lot coverage: 40 percent · mobile-home minimum floor area: >= 480 sq ft · mobile-home maximum height: <= 20 feet (No height limitation on agricultural buildings.)

    “This district is not intended to provide for mobile homes on individual, unplatted parcels of land.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Utility connections associated with county-permitted residential construction.

    • If served by a County Utility District, the county states that it will inspect at the same time as the final inspection.
    • City plumbing and natural-gas permits may require separate approvals.
    • The source does not establish a universal water-and-sewer connection requirement.
    “IF SERVICED BY COUNTY UTILITY DISTRICT, WE WILL INSPECT AT SAME TIME AS FINAL INSPECTION, if has septic system need COC prior to issuing certificate of occupancy.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural buildings under the county zoning height standards.

    • The zoning resolution states there is no height limitation on agricultural buildings.
    • This is a height exception and does not establish a general exemption from building permits, zoning, septic, floodplain, or other rules.
    “There is no height limitation on agricultural buildings.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and minor-plat processes associated with county building permits.

    • If property is less than five acres and not in a platted subdivision, the county permit-types page states that a recorded minor plat is required before a building permit will be issued.
    • Planning Commission contact and plat requirements may apply.

    minor-plat acreage threshold: < 5 acres (property not in a platted subdivision)

    “If the property is less than five acres and the property is not in a platted subdivision, please contact the Regional Planning Commission, 329 Main Street, (931) 645-7448. A minor plat of the property, recorded in the Register of Deed's office, will be required.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and plat review associated with county building-permit issuance.
      “If the property is less than five acres and the property is not in a platted subdivision, please contact the Regional Planning Commission, 329 Main Street, (931) 645-7448. A minor plat of the property, recorded in the Register of Deed's office, will be required.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Driveway connection to a Montgomery County road for county-permitted construction.

    • A driveway permit is for connection to a County road.
    • If the property is on a State highway, the State Highway Garage must be contacted.
    • The County Building and Codes office must see a road bond before issuing a building permit.
    “This is for the driveway connection to the County road. If the property is located on a State Highway, contact the State Highway Garage. This office must see a copy of the Road Bond issued by the Montgomery County Highway Department before a building permit is issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Driveway connection to a Montgomery County road for projects requiring county building permits.
      “This office must see a copy of the Road Bond issued by the Montgomery County Highway Department before a building permit is issued.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Building, grading, or fill placed in a Montgomery County floodplain or adjacent to a stream.

    • A permit is required before building, grading, or placing fill in a floodplain.
    • For property in or adjacent to a designated floodplain or adjacent to a stream, building permits cannot be issued until FEMA/County requirements are reviewed.
    • Occupied structures in a floodplain must have crawlspace or basement floor elevation one foot above the 100-year flood elevation.
    • Mechanical and electrical equipment must also be above that elevation.
    • Flood elevation certificate elevations are subject to verification.
    • These requirements are in addition to Montgomery County Zoning Resolution Article IV, Section 17.

    minimum elevation above 100-year flood elevation: >= 1 foot (crawlspace or basement floor of occupied structures; mechanical and electrical equipment also must be above this elevation)

    “You must obtain a permit before building, grading or placing fill in a floodplain.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Building permit fees issued by Montgomery County Building and Codes

    • Fee is per square foot of total area, including finished bonus rooms, garages and basements
    • Plans review fee is one-half of the building permit fee
    • Page also lists an additional $5.00 archive and records fee and a separate adequate facilities tax, whose amounts were not confirmed
    • Industrial permit fee is based on cost of construction

    minimum permit fee: 25 USD · residential and commercial building permit: per 0.38 USD per square foot · demolition permit: 50 USD

    “minimum permit fee $25.00 residential (including double wide homes) commercial construction industrial permit.38 per square foot (total sf, including bonus rooms, garages, & basements if finished)”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building-permit issuance and inspection process.

    • Permits are issued Monday through Friday, 7:30-4:30, except legal holidays.
    • The permit must be issued to the property owner or licensed contractor and paid in full by check or cash.
    • Applicants receive an inspection checklist and must use the application number to request inspections.
    • Site-plan review or other approvals may be required before issuance.
    “Prior to permit issuance, a site plan review or other approvals may be required, such as evidence of proper sewage disposal method. Permits are issued from 7:30-4:30 Monday through Friday-except legal holidays. Permits must be issued to the property owner or licensed contractor. Permits must be paid in full by check or cash at the time of issuance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County building-permit issuance and inspection process outside city jurisdictions.
      “Permits must be issued to the property owner or licensed contractor. Permits must be paid in full by check or cash at the time of issuance.”

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • 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.”
  • 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Subsurface sewage disposal permits for Montgomery County properties.
      “Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Houston, Humphreys, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Stewart, Sumner, Trousdale (Division of Water Resources served by Cookeville EFO), Williamson, Wilson”
    • State (with conditions) — Subsurface sewage disposal permitting and inspection applicable in Montgomery County.
      “A TDEC Environmental Scientist will conduct a site evaluation to determine the type of septic system required for your property.”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Statewide subsurface sewage disposal system permitting and assistance, with specified contract counties providing ground water protection services in their own areas.
      “NOTE: Some counties provide ground water protection services for their own areas. The online application form is not to be submitted for services requested in the following metropolitan or contact counties: Blount County, Davidson County/Nashville, Hamilton County, Jefferson County, Knox County, Madison County, Sevier County, Shelby County, Williamson County.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, modification, or repair of residential, commercial, or industrial septic systems in Tennessee.

    • A permit is required before construction, modification, or repair.
    • A septic system permit should be obtained before starting dirt work or construction of any building, including the building pad.
    • Repair permits have no permit fee.
    • Alternative systems require an extra-high intensity soils map prepared by a Tennessee-licensed soils consultant.
    • Contract counties may require an additional permit.

    new conventional SSDS permit fee: 400 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($100 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · new alternative SSDS permit fee: 500 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($150 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · experimental SSDS permit fee: 500 USD · repair permit fee: 0 USD (Repair construction inspection fee is $100)

    “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system. This permit ensures that the septic system design complies with state regulations and safeguards your health by properly managing wastewater.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation of a septic tank or subsurface sewage disposal system in Montgomery 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.”
    • Required — Construction, modification, repair, or installation of a septic system in Montgomery County.
      “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 of an SSDS installation in Montgomery County.
      “When installation is complete, the installer will contact the local Environmental Scientist to schedule a final inspection before the system is covered. If the septic system installation is approved, the Environmental Scientist will issue a Certificate of Completion.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Construction, modification, or repair of an on-site subsurface sewage disposal (septic) system, including systems serving residential, commercial, and industrial properties in Tennessee.

    • A septic-system permit is required for construction, modification, or repair.
    • An applicant planning a new system, or repair or modification of an existing system, must apply for a permit.
    • A TDEC Environmental Scientist conducts a site evaluation and may request a detailed site plan or soils map from a private licensed soil consultant.
    • If a permit is issued, the applicant provides it to a licensed installer; after installation, the installer contacts the local Environmental Scientist for a final inspection before the system is covered.
    • A Certificate of Completion is issued if the installation is approved.
    “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Drilling a water well for production of water from underground sources in Tennessee.

    • Before drilling, the property owner or licensed well driller must submit a Notice of Intent to the Director in the Department-prescribed manner.
    • A driller must have documentation that the Notice of Intent was submitted to the Division of Water Resources before beginning operations at a drill site.
    • The Notice of Intent fee or a receipt must accompany the driller's report; no well or borehole may be drilled unless the driller has documentation that a Notice of Intent has been filed.
    • A Notice of Intent and fee are not required for well closure, deepening, or reworking of a water well or closed-loop geothermal borehole.
    • The Notice of Intent fee requirement does not apply in a qualifying local jurisdiction authorized to regulate well location and construction that has a Commissioner-approved inspection fee.
    • The Notice of Intent fee does not apply when the property owner filed a notice and paid the fee for the same property within the previous five years, provided the new notice identifies the first notice's identification number.
    • A Notice of Intent expires 180 days after its original filing date.

    Notice of Intent fee for water wells for production of water per property site: 75 USD (Not required for qualifying local jurisdictions or when the same property satisfies the five-year prior-notice exception.) · Notice of Intent expiration: 180 days

    “A Notice of Intent to drill a water well must be submitted by the property owner or the licensed well driller to the Director in the manner prescribed by the Department, prior to commencement of drilling a water well in Tennessee.”
  • 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.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    County legislative bodies adopting zoning regulations for portions of Tennessee counties outside municipal corporations.

    • The authority is exercised under the conditions and procedures in Tennessee Code Annotated §§ 13-7-101 through 13-7-119.
    • The grant applies to portions of counties outside municipal corporations.
    • County zoning authority does not authorize county building permits or regulation of buildings or structures on agricultural land when the building or structure is incidental to the agricultural enterprise, except on agricultural lands adjacent or in proximity to state federal-aid highways, public airports or public parks.
    • The agricultural-land limitation applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
    “Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-101, et seq., the General Assembly has expressly delegated the authority to county legislative bodies to enact zoning regulations and create a board of zoning appeals.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling occupancy on private land outside incorporated municipalities.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in unincorporated Montgomery County.

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

Living off-grid in Montgomery County, Tennessee

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

Montgomery County scores 71/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 52.3″/yr rainfall plus 60.2% wooded land. Watch-outs: about 49,965 people within a 30-minute drive.

How much does land cost in Montgomery County, Tennessee?

Land in Montgomery County runs about $5,228 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Montgomery County?

Montgomery County gets about 52.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.6% of years.

How remote is Montgomery County?

A representative private-land location has about 49,965 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,110,282 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 Montgomery compares in Tennessee

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