Bolthole Index

Ochiltree County, Texas

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Ochiltree County, Texas

47Index Score / 100
#156 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Ochiltree County, Texas does not require a residential building permit and has no county zoning ordinance1. Perryton has its own building-regulation chapter, but that city rule does not establish a code for the surrounding county2. A septic permit and approved plan are generally required, although we could not confirm whether a local program or TCEQ handles applications here3.

Do you need a building permit in Ochiltree County, Texas?

No. Unincorporated Ochiltree County does not require a residential building permit.

No. Unincorporated Ochiltree County does not require a residential building permit1. Texas counties generally lack authority to require one outside narrow statutory exceptions7. Perryton has a city building-regulation chapter, but that does not establish county adoption for land outside city limits2. Texas also has an owner-builder exemption from a notice-related penalty for qualifying primary residences, but only in a qualifying county that adopted the applicable provisions; no Ochiltree County adoption was confirmed, and the provision is not a blanket exemption from construction rules6.

Who issues building permits in Ochiltree County?

There is no dedicated building or planning department in Ochiltree County.

There is no dedicated building or planning department in Ochiltree County1. The Ochiltree County Judge's Office handles commissioners' court business and road-crossing permits, and is the point of contact for anything else the county's own pages don't cover4. Reach the County Judge's Office at (806) 435-8031 or 511 S Main St, Perryton, TX 790704. A driveway onto a state highway is a separate process: contact the local TxDOT district office and file Form 1058 before you build it8.

Does Ochiltree County have zoning?

Ochiltree County has no county zoning ordinance.

Ochiltree County has no county zoning ordinance1. The county therefore sets no zoning-based minimum lot size, setbacks, building-height limit or minimum dwelling size for unincorporated land5. Unincorporated Ochiltree County also places no zoning-based restriction on RVs, tiny homes, manufactured homes or accessory dwellings5. Municipal rules are separate: Perryton has a building-regulation chapter, so confirm city requirements when a parcel is inside Perryton2.

How do septic and well permits work in Ochiltree County?

A permit and approved plan are generally required to construct, alter, repair, extend or operate a septic system in Ochiltree County.

A permit and approved plan are generally required to construct, alter, repair, extend or operate a septic system in Ochiltree County3. Submit the application and planning materials to the permitting authority; we could not confirm a local authorized program for Ochiltree County, and TCEQ handles applications only where no local jurisdiction is authorized3. A qualifying single-family home on at least 10 acres may be exempt only when every state condition is met, including a licensed site evaluation, at least 100 feet from every system part to the property line, on-site effluent disposal and no other dwelling on the tract3. Where an authorized-agent program issues approval to construct, a licensed Designated Representative inspects the installation against state or stricter approved local criteria9. About 21% of mapped soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field, so test the site before assuming a standard system will work10. Off-grid sanitation is not permit-free, and we could not confirm whether any parcel must connect to public sewer3.

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

In unincorporated Ochiltree County, living in an RV or a tiny home on your own land is unrestricted, because the county has no zoning ordinance to set occupancy rules for either.

In unincorporated Ochiltree County, living in an RV or a tiny home on your own land is unrestricted, because the county has no zoning ordinance to set occupancy rules for either5. The same absence of zoning means Ochiltree County sets no minimum dwelling size for unincorporated land5. This is a county-level answer only: it does not apply inside Perryton, and it says nothing about deed restrictions a particular subdivision may carry.

What are the steps to build a home in Ochiltree County?

Confirm your tract is in unincorporated Ochiltree County rather than inside Perryton, since the city has its own building-regulation chapter.

  1. Confirm your tract is in unincorporated Ochiltree County rather than inside Perryton, since the city has its own building-regulation chapter2.
  2. Because unincorporated Ochiltree County has no building permit or zoning requirement, you can generally start planning construction without a county permit1.
  3. Confirm who administers septic permits for your parcel, then submit the generally required application and planning materials; TCEQ handles them only where no local jurisdiction is authorized3.
  4. Before drilling a well, ask the North Plains Groundwater Conservation District whether the tract falls inside it and whether the well must be registered or permitted11.
  5. If your driveway will cross a county road, apply for a road-crossing permit through the County Judge's Office; a driveway onto a state highway instead needs a TxDOT Form 1058 permit4,8.
  6. For anything else, call the County Judge's Office at (806) 435-80314.

What should you check before buying land in Ochiltree County?

Check septic feasibility early: about 21% of Ochiltree County's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, and the county averages 21.4 inches of rain a year with roughly a third of years in severe drought.

Check septic feasibility early: about 21% of Ochiltree County's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field10, and the county averages 21.4 inches of rain a year with roughly a third of years in severe drought10. Ochiltree County has about 10.6 people per square mile, and the nearest city of 100,000 or more is roughly 94 miles from the county center10, so factor in distance for supplies, contractors and emergency services. Typical property tax runs about 1.4% of value, with a median annual bill near $1,92410.

Watch-outs

  • Ochiltree County's own pages do not confirm building inspections, a certificate-of-occupancy rule, subdivision platting rules or floodplain development requirements for unincorporated land; call the County Judge's Office before you buy or build4.
  • The septic permitting authority for Ochiltree County could not be confirmed; identify the authority before applying, because TCEQ is the fallback only where no local jurisdiction is authorized3.

Sources

11 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 10, 2026

  1. Texas county authority FAQ (Texas Local Government Code Ch. 233) (2026 county census)
  2. Code of Ordinances
  3. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System
  4. Ochiltree County Contact Information
  5. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  6. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233: County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures
  7. Local Government Code Chapter 233, County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures (Texas statewide rule)
  8. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials
  9. Occupational Licenses: On-Site Sewage Facilities (Septic Systems)
  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. Contact the District Before Drilling

Written October 10, 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 all 6 of its neighbors, Ochiltree County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleOchiltree CountyHansford CountyLipscomb CountyRoberts CountyHutchinson CountyHemphill CountySherman County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsTCEQTCEQTCEQTCEQ Region 1Hutchinson CountyTCEQ Region 1TCEQ Region 1

County locator

Ochiltree County in Texas

47
County map
Ochiltree County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Ochiltree County scores

47 / 100 · #156 of 254 in Texas · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion79100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1896% ev.
Admin Boringness8790% ev.
Durability30100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost8096% ev.

Evidence strength: 97%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$131kTypical home
1.4%Property tax
$1,893Land / acre
21.4"Annual rain
32.6% of yrsSevere drought
36.1 / yr (+25.5)Mid-century 100°F days
29.5 daysMid-century dry spell
1.43" (+4.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.33×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,867Home insurance / yr
0.8% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
5,364People within 30 min
402,921People within 2 hr
9,298Radius comparison (15 mi)
10.6People / sq mi
0%Federal land
98.3%Land at 15% slope or less
21%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
123,410 acWorkable land screen
0.6%Wooded land
11.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
57.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Ochiltree 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 Ochiltree County

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

Ochiltree County rules

  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Minimum lot size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Building height · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Living in an RV · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Tiny homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Ochiltree County: no county rule sets this, because Ochiltree County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing bexar.org.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Water wells in the North Plains Groundwater Conservation District portion of Ochiltree County other than exempt rig supply, domestic, and livestock wells incapable of producing over 17.5 gallons per minute.

    • A Well Construction Permit and/or Test Hole Permit is required for all other wells.
    • Drilling cannot begin until documentation and applicable fees are accepted and approved.
    • The applicant must be the groundwater-rights owner or an authorized agent; an agent authorization form must be completed, notarized, and on file.
    • The well permit fee is $1,000 and the test-hole permit fee is $200.
    • The District usually approves and completes permits within seven business days after the permit is signed and fees are paid.
    • A Well Permit is valid for 150 days and a Test Hole Permit is valid for 60 days.

    production threshold for exemption: > 17.5 gallons per minute (domestic and livestock wells incapable of producing over 17.5 GPM are exempt from permitting but must be registered) · well permit fee: 1000 USD · test hole permit fee: 200 USD · usual processing time: 7 business days (after signed permit and payment of applicable fees) · well permit validity: 150 days · test hole permit validity: 60 days

    “All other wells must request a Well Construction Permit and/or Test Hole Permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Rig supply wells and domestic or livestock wells in the North Plains Groundwater Conservation District portion of Ochiltree County that are incapable of producing over 17.5 gallons per minute.
      “They are required to be registered, but are exempt from permitting requirements.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Road-crossing permits in Ochiltree County.

    • The county page identifies the County Judge Office as the contact, but does not publish the application form, review steps, standards, fees, or approval time.
    “Road Crossing Permits - County Judge Office - (806) 435-8031”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Texas counties have no zoning authority in unincorporated areas, so there are no county zoning regulations outside incorporated city limits.

    Texas county authority FAQ (no unincorporated zoning) ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Texas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Industrialized housing or buildings installed in Texas, including purchasers or lessees acquiring a unit for their own or their company’s use.

    • A person purchasing or leasing an industrialized house or building for their own use or their company’s use may file for an installation permit instead of registering as an industrialized builder.
    • A person responsible for assembly, connection, and on-site construction for persons other than themselves must be registered as an industrialized builder.
    • Municipalities may require applicable local permits and licenses before construction begins when the municipality regulates the installation.
    “A person who is a retailer of industrialized housing or buildings, or who is responsible for the assembly, connection, and on-site construction and erection of an industrialized house or building for persons other than themselves, must be registered as an industrialized builder. Subcontractors do not require the registration unless required by other applicable state laws. For example, electricians, HVAC contractors, and plumbers must be licensed in accordance with the applicable state law. If you are purchasing or leasing an industrialized house or building for your own use, or your company's use, you may file for an installation permit in lieu of registering as an industrialized builder.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An individual constructing new residential construction in an unincorporated area of a Texas county that has adopted a resolution or order applying Local Government Code Subchapter F.

    • The individual must build the new residential construction or act as the individual's own contractor.
    • The individual must intend to use the residence as the individual's primary residence.
    • The exemption is from the Class C misdemeanor penalty for failure to provide the notices required by Sections 233.154(b) and (c); it is not an exemption from all construction requirements.
    • Subchapter F applies only if the county adopted a resolution or order requiring its application and meets the geographic or population criterion in Section 233.152.
    • No official source was located verifying that Ochiltree County adopted such a resolution or order.
    “This subchapter applies only to a county that has adopted a resolution or order requiring the application of the provisions of this subchapter and that: (1) is located within 50 miles of an international border; or (2) has a population of more than 100. [...] An individual who fails to provide proper notice in accordance with Sections 233.154(b) and (c) is not subject to a penalty under this subsection if: (1) the new residential construction is built by the individual or the individual acts as the individual's own contractor; and (2) the individual intends to use the residence as the individual's primary residence.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — An owner performing electrical, plumbing, or air-conditioning and refrigeration work on the owner's own residence or homestead in Texas.
      “A person who perform electrical work on a dwelling that they own and reside in is not required by the state to be licensed as electricians.”
    • Conditional — Electrical work on a dwelling owned and occupied by the property owner in Texas.
      “A person who perform electrical work on a dwelling that they own and reside in is not required by the state to be licensed”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components governed by the Texas Industrialized Housing and Buildings program.

    • The mandatory state code adoption applies to industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components, not all construction statewide.
    • The effective date is July 1, 2024.
    • The International Existing Building Code applies to alterations of portable industrialized buildings.
    • Manufacturers already certified for Texas must have design-package documents reviewed and approved to the new editions with an approval date on or after July 1, 2024, unless the manufacturer elected to transition before the effective date under Department rule 70.70(a)(5)(B).
    • Construction begun on or after July 1, 2024 must comply with the new code editions and approved design packages.
    • Construction begun before July 1, 2024, or before a manufacturer's effective transition date, must meet the stated completion, inspection, and labeling deadline to remain eligible for a Texas decal.

    effective date: 2024-07-01 · International Building Code: 2021 Edition (including appendices C, F, and K) · International Residential Code: 2021 Edition (including appendices AG, AH, AK, AP, AQ, and AT) · International Fuel Gas Code: 2021 Edition · International Mechanical Code: 2021 Edition · International Plumbing Code: 2021 Edition · International Energy Conservation Code: 2015 Edition · National Electrical Code: 2020 Edition · International Existing Building Code: 2021 Edition (for alterations of portable industrialized buildings)

    “July 1, 2024, all industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components shall comply with the following codes, as amended in §70.101 of the IHB Rules:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components built for Texas under the Industrialized Housing and Buildings program.
      “Effective July 1, 2024, all industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components shall comply with the following codes, as amended in §70.101 of the IHB Rules:”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Construction and first installation of industrialized housing and permanent industrialized buildings in Texas; on-site inspections outside a municipality or in a jurisdiction without a building-inspection department are addressed by the Texas Industrialized Housing and Buildings program.

    • Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1202 requires the department to inspect industrialized housing and buildings for compliance with mandatory building codes or approved designs, plans, and specifications; approved third-party inspectors may be designated under commission rules.
    • For first installation, site inspections are required for all industrialized housing and permanent industrialized buildings, except unoccupied industrialized buildings not open to the public, such as communication-equipment shelters, when they are not also classified as a hazardous occupancy by the mandatory building code.
    • For industrialized construction located in a municipality, the statute assigns on-site inspection to the municipal building official; outside a municipality, an approved third-party inspector performs on-site inspections of industrialized housing.
    “Site inspections are required for the first installation of all industrialized housing and permanent industrialized buildings.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Industrialized housing and buildings subject to the Texas Industrialized Housing and Buildings rules, where a local building official administers certificate-of-occupancy rules.

    • The certificate of occupancy is issued by the local building official in accordance with locally adopted rules and regulations.
    • A building or structure may not be used or occupied, and its occupancy classification may not be changed, until the local building official issues a certificate of occupancy under those locally adopted rules.
    • The state rule provision does not itself create a uniform certificate-of-occupancy process for all Texas construction; local adoption and administration control for this industrialized-housing/buildings provision.
    “The local building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy in accordance with the locally adopted rules and regulations.”
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Texas locations where no local jurisdiction has been authorized to administer the OSSF permitting program; the rule may apply to an Ochiltree County location if the county-specific lookup confirms no authorized local jurisdiction.

    • A permit and approved plan are generally required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.
    • Local permitting programs can be more stringent than state minimums.
    • An OSSF may qualify for the 10-acre exemption only if all listed conditions are met, including a site evaluation by a TCEQ-licensed Site Evaluator or Professional Engineer, service to a single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres, no nuisance or groundwater pollution, all OSSF parts at least 100 feet from the property line, effluent disposal on the property, and only one dwelling on the tract.
    • Emergency repairs listed by TCEQ do not require a permit but must be reported to the permitting authority in writing within 72 hours after repairs begin.
    • Grandfathered systems and other exemptions may apply under the conditions stated by TCEQ.
    “The TCEQ regional office will be the permitting authority in locations where a local jurisdiction has not been authorized.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — On-site sewage facilities, including septic systems and holding tanks, in Texas; this statewide program applies to Ochiltree County subject to any authorized local permitting program.
      “TCEQ is not often the OSSF permitting authority. [...] The TCEQ regional office will be the permitting authority in locations where a local jurisdiction has not been authorized.”
    • Mixed — On-site sewage facilities, including septic systems, throughout Texas
      “TCEQ is not often the OSSF permitting authority. [...] The TCEQ regional office will be the permitting authority in locations where a local jurisdiction has not been authorized.”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — OSSF permitting, inspection, and administration throughout Texas.
      “The authorized agent is responsible for the proper implementation of Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 366, 30 TAC Chapter 285, including reviewing OSSF permit applications, conducting inspections, investigating complaints, and more.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, and operation of OSSFs in Texas, subject to stated exemptions and local requirements.

    • A permit and approved plan are required for construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of an OSSF.
    • A permit is generally required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF.
    • A local permitting authority must be checked because local programs may be more stringent than state minimums.
    • The 10-acre exemption requires compliance with 30 TAC Chapter 285 planning, construction, and installation standards; a site evaluation by a TCEQ-licensed site evaluator or professional engineer; service to a single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres; no nuisance or groundwater pollution; all OSSF parts at least 100 feet from the property line; on-site effluent disposal; and the single-family dwelling must be the only dwelling on the tract.
    • Emergency repairs listed by TCEQ do not require a permit but must be reported to the permitting authority in writing within 72 hours after repairs begin.
    • Grandfathered systems may be exempt if installed before the local program was authorized or before September 1, 1989, whichever is earlier, and if they are not creating a nuisance, are not in need of repair, and have had no significant increase in use or other alteration.
    • The permitting authority must approve or deny planning materials and the permit application within 30 days of receipt.

    minimum tract size for 10-acre exemption: >= 10 acres (single-family dwelling and all other stated conditions must be met) · minimum OSSF setback under 10-acre exemption: >= 100 feet from property line (all parts of the OSSF) · emergency repair reporting deadline: <= 72 hours (after repairs have begun) · permit application decision deadline: <= 30 days (from receipt by permitting authority)

    “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — OSSFs, including septic systems and holding tanks, in Texas, including property in Ochiltree County where no more stringent local requirement applies.
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. Always check with your local permitting authority.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of an on-site sewage facility in Texas, including Ochiltree County.
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. Always check with your local permitting authority. Local permitting programs can be more stringent than State minimums.”
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF in Texas
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. [...] An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Construction inspection of an OSSF in Ochiltree County, Texas, when the state permitting and inspection requirements apply.

    • The installer must notify the permitting authority at least five working days before the OSSF will be ready for inspection, excluding holidays.
    • If the OSSF fails inspection, it cannot be used until it passes inspection.
    • A reinspection fee may be assessed and must be paid before reinspection.
    • No planning materials, permit, and inspections are required for an OSSF serving a single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres if the OSSF complies with Chapter 285 Subchapter D, is not causing a nuisance or polluting groundwater, all parts are at least 100 feet from the property line, effluent is disposed of on the property, and the dwelling is the only dwelling on the tract.
    • Certain pre-September 1, 1989 systems and systems authorized before the effective date of the chapter may be exempt if the stated no-nuisance, no-alteration, and no-repair conditions are met.

    advance inspection notice: >= 5 working days (Monday through Friday, excluding holidays) · minimum tract size for stated inspection exception: >= 10 acres (single-family dwelling and all listed Chapter 285 conditions must be met) · minimum OSSF setback for stated inspection exception: >= 100 feet from property line (all parts of the OSSF)

    “The permitting authority shall conduct a construction inspection.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Evaluation or inspection of an existing OSSF before sale of a home in Ochiltree County, Texas.
      “This type of evaluation is not required or regulated by TCEQ.”
    • Limited — OSSFs issued an authorization to construct under a TCEQ authorized-agent program, including any such program applicable in Ochiltree County.
      “They perform site evaluations (when it is part of their job duties), complaint investigations, system evaluations, and inspections of OSSFs that have been issued an authorization to construct to ensure the installation of the OSSF meets the criteria established by the TCEQ, or by the Authorized Agent Order approved by the TCEQ, whichever is more stringent.”
    • Limited — OSSF installation and, where applicable, maintenance inspections in Texas
      “Many times, the AA has a "designated representative" (DR) to assist them with their responsibilities, which include reviewing plans for constructing, altering, extending or repairing each OSSF; issuing permits; and inspecting system installation. [...] If the system uses an electronic monitor, automatic radio or telephone to notify the maintenance provider of system or component failure and to monitor the amount of disinfection in the system, reporting may be reduced to every six months.”
    • Limited — OSSFs using secondary treatment or drip irrigation in Texas.
      “A system using secondary treatment or drip irrigation must be inspected by a valid maintenance company once every four months, or be maintained by the single family homeowner, where allowed.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid wastewater sanitation through an OSSF in Texas.

    • An OSSF generally requires a permit and approved plan before construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, or operation.
    • A qualifying single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres may use the 10-acre permitting exemption only if every stated site-evaluation, setback, nuisance, groundwater, on-site disposal, and single-dwelling condition is met.
    • Local permitting authorities may impose requirements more stringent than state minimums.
    • Emergency repairs are exempt from permitting only for the listed repair types and must be reported in writing within 72 hours after repairs begin.

    10-acre exemption tract size: >= 10 acres (all TCEQ conditions must be satisfied) · 10-acre exemption OSSF setback: >= 100 feet from property line (all parts of the OSSF)

    “An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Use of an on-site sewage facility rather than public sewer in Texas, including Ochiltree County.
      “An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
    • Limited — Composting toilets used as on-site sewage facility treatment systems in Texas.
      “Composting toilets will be approved by the executive director provided the system has been tested and certified under NSF International Standard 41 (1999) or under any other standards approved by the executive director.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater and sewer (with conditions)

    Utility service to subdivided land in a county any part of which is within 100 miles of an international border, contains the majority of the area of a municipality with a population greater than 250,000, and is not a county within 50 miles of an international border, where Texas Local Government Code Chapter 232, Subchapter B applies.

    • The utility must receive either a commissioners-court certificate under Local Government Code §232.028(a), or a commissioners-court determination under §232.028(b)(1) that the plat has been reviewed and approved.
    • The operative restriction excepts Local Government Code §232.0291(d) and §232.037(c).
    • The underlying subchapter applies only to land subdivided into two or more lots intended primarily for residential use in the county's jurisdiction; a lot of five acres or less is presumed residential.
    • The underlying subchapter does not apply if the subdivision is a qualifying gift between relatives within the third degree, if all subdivision lots exceed 10 acres, or to a county to which Subchapter G applies.
    • For this subchapter, county jurisdiction means land in the county outside municipal corporate limits, except where a municipal-county agreement under Local Government Code §242.001 authorizes municipal plat and permit regulation in the municipality's extraterritorial jurisdiction.
    “Except as provided by Subsection (d) or Section 232.037(c), a utility may not serve or connect any subdivided land with water or sewer services unless the utility receives a certificate issued by the commissioners court under Section 232.028(a) or receives a determination from the commissioners court under Section 232.028(b)(1) that the plat has been reviewed and approved by the commissioners court.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Water and sewer (with conditions) — Utility service to subdivided land in a county any part of which is within 50 miles of an international border, where Texas Local Government Code Chapter 232, Subchapter B applies.
      “Except as provided by Subsection (c) or Section 232.037(c), a utility may not serve or connect any subdivided land with water or sewer services unless the utility receives a certificate issued by the commissioners court under Section 232.028(a) or receives a determination from the commissioners court under Section 232.028(b)(1) that the plat has been reviewed and approved by the commissioners court.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Texas professional-engineering licensing for a person or entity constructing or preparing plans for a private building used exclusively for farm, ranch, or agricultural purposes, or storage of raw agricultural commodities.

    • The person or entity must not make or imply a representation that engineering services have been or will be offered to the public.
    • The building must be private and used exclusively for farm, ranch, or agricultural purposes, or for storage of raw agricultural commodities.
    • This is an exemption from Chapter 1001 engineering-licensing requirements, not an affirmative exemption from locally administered building permits, zoning, septic, floodplain, well, or other requirements.
    • The Section 1001.056 exemption does not apply to engineering design or inspection necessary for residential-dwelling windstorm certification under Insurance Code Chapter 2210, Subchapter F.
    • The Section 1001.056 exemption does not apply to engineering design for a residential-dwelling slab on qualifying expansive soil unless the work meets IRC requirements as applied in the jurisdiction where the dwelling is located.
    “exempt from the licensing requirements of this chapter if: [...] (E) a private building to be used exclusively for: (i) farm, ranch, or agricultural purposes”
  • Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Texas professional-engineering licensing for a garage or other structure pertinent to a qualifying private dwelling or limited-size apartment building.

    • The person or entity must not make or imply a representation that engineering services have been or will be offered to the public.
    • The accessory structure must be a garage or other structure pertinent to a private dwelling, a one-story apartment building with no more than eight units, or an apartment building no more than two stories high with no more than four units.
    • This is an exemption from Chapter 1001 engineering-licensing requirements, not an affirmative exemption from locally administered building permits, zoning, septic, floodplain, well, or other requirements.
    • The Section 1001.056 exemption does not apply to engineering design or inspection necessary for residential-dwelling windstorm certification under Insurance Code Chapter 2210, Subchapter F.
    • The Section 1001.056 exemption does not apply to engineering design for a residential-dwelling slab on qualifying expansive soil unless the work meets IRC requirements as applied in the jurisdiction where the dwelling is located.
    “exempt from the licensing requirements of this chapter [...] (D) a garage or other structure pertinent to a building described by Paragraph (A), (B), or (C);”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction of a new driveway or revision of an existing driveway connecting property to a highway right-of-way on the Texas state highway system, including applicable highways in Ochiltree County.

    • The applicant should contact the local District TxDOT office.
    • The applicant must submit TxDOT Form 1058 with the proposed-work description, applicant name, mailing address, and driveway location.
    • The application must be made by the property owner or authorized representative and only for securing or changing access, not for parking or servicing vehicles on state highway rights-of-way.
    • No right-of-way construction may begin until a fully executed permit is received and 24-hour notice is given to TxDOT.
    • Construction must comply with the executed permit and applicable regulations and is subject to TxDOT inspection and acceptance.
    • If a local public agency has delegated access-permitting authority, TxDOT coordination and approval remain required for drainage impacts before local approval.
    • No access driveway is permitted within a flared or widened right-of-way section at certain highway intersections.
    • Driveway angle must be 75 to 90 degrees, except one-way 45 to 90 degree driveways for one-way frontage roads or lane-divided highways.
    • Construction must comply with ADA Accessibility Guidelines and Texas Accessibility Standards.

    permit form: Form 1058 · advance notice before construction: 24 hours · driveway angle: 75 to 90 degrees (one-way 45 to 90 degree angle driveways are permitted for connections to one-way frontage roads or lane divided highways)

    “No construction work on the driveway shall be undertaken on the right of way until a fully executed driveway permit has been received by the applicant and the applicant has given 24-hour notification to TxDOT.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    A Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation residential or commercial installation permit for each building containing industrialized-housing or industrialized-building modules or modular components.

    • The installation permit is in lieu of industrialized-builder registration under Rules 70.20 and 70.25.

    installation permit fee: 75 USD per building (Applies to each building containing industrialized housing or buildings modules or modular components.)

    “Residential and Commercial Installation Permit | $75 for each building containing industrialized housing or buildings modules or modular components | Installation permit is in lieu of an industrialized builder’s registration in accordance with rule §§ 70.20 and 70.25.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — Municipal building-permit fees for constructing, renovating, or remodeling structures in Texas municipalities.
      “In this section, "building permit fee" means a fee charged by a municipality as a condition to constructing, renovating, or remodeling a structure.”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

    Texas counties adopting zoning regulations for specified unincorporated or otherwise specially defined areas.

    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    • Other Chapter 231 subchapters address special areas including the Amistad Recreation Area in Val Verde County, military zones, certain lakes, the El Paso Mission Trail Historical Area, Lake Somerville, and Falcon Lake in Zapata County.
    • The cited statute was enacted effective September 1, 1987; the Falcon Lake subchapter was added effective June 15, 2007, and amended effective September 1, 2009.

    Padre Island distance from publicly owned park or recreational development: <= 2 miles (Area must be outside a municipality and in Cameron or Willacy County.) · Padre Island distance from beach, wharf, or bathhouse: <= 2 miles (The beach, wharf, or bathhouse must be used by at least 500 persons annually.)

    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — County zoning authority over unincorporated land in Texas, where a specific statutory grant applies.
      “As you suggest, a county has very limited and specific zoning authority, and none that may be used to regulate construction or operation of the proposed facility.”
  • county building authorityLimited

    Texas counties adopting and enforcing fire-code building permits for specified buildings in unincorporated areas and applying residential building-code standards in certain counties.

    • Under Section 233.061, the county must have a population over 250,000 or be adjacent to a county with a population over 250,000.
    • Under Section 233.062, the fire code applies only to commercial establishments, public buildings, and multifamily residential dwellings consisting of four or more units constructed in an unincorporated area.
    • The fire code does not apply to an industrial facility having a fire brigade that conforms to Occupational Health and Safety Administration requirements.
    • A covered applicant must submit a plan and a commissioners-court-set application fee; the county must issue or deny the permit within 30 days, and failure to act within 30 days approves the construction for purposes of the subchapter.
    • The fire code must conform to the International Fire Code or Uniform Fire Code as those codes existed on May 1, 2005, or establish protective measures exceeding those standards; later editions may be adopted.
    • Residential standards under Section 233.152 apply only if the county adopts a resolution or order and the county is within 50 miles of an international border or has a population over 100.
    • Those residential standards apply only to new single-family-house or duplex construction beginning after September 1, 2009; manufactured or modular structures governed by Occupations Code Chapters 1201 or 1202 are excluded from the definition of new residential construction.
    • A municipality's building code controls in its extraterritorial jurisdiction, and Section 233.152 does not authorize county prior approval of new residential construction or county zoning regulations.
    • Fire-code inspection and permit fees may be charged under a fee schedule based on building type, limited to amounts necessary to administer and enforce the subchapter; inspection fees must be reasonable and reflect approximate inspection costs.

    county population threshold for fire-code authority: > 250000 persons (A county adjacent to a county over 250,000 also qualifies.) · multifamily residential dwelling threshold: >= 4 units (The fire code applies only to covered buildings constructed in an unincorporated area.) · residential-code border distance: <= 50 miles (Alternative qualification is county population over 100.) · application decision period: 30 days (If the commissioners court does not issue or deny the permit within 30 days after receiving the application and fee, construction is approved for purposes of the subchapter.) · residential standards effective construction date: > 2009-09-01 (Applies only to new residential construction that begins after September 1, 2009.)

    “The commissioners court of a county with a population of over 250,000 or a county adjacent to a county with a population of over 250,000 may adopt a fire code and rules necessary to administer and enforce the fire code. [...] The fire code applies only to the following buildings constructed in an unincorporated area of the county: (1) a commercial establishment; (2) a public building; and (3) a multifamily residential dwelling consisting of four or more units.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — County fire-code adoption and building-permit authority for specified buildings in unincorporated areas of qualifying Texas counties, including multifamily residential dwellings of four or more units.
      “The commissioners court of a county with a population of over 250,000 or a county adjacent to a county with a population of over 250,000 may adopt a fire code and rules necessary to administer and enforce the fire code.”

Inside cities and towns in Ochiltree County

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

  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Building-code regulation within the incorporated City of Perryton, Ochiltree County, Texas

    • The official city page identifies the applicable ordinance only as Chapter 6 and labels it revised September 2003; the detailed code text was not accessible during this search.
    • This claim does not establish county adoption for unincorporated Ochiltree County.
    “Code of Ordinances - Chapter 6: Building and Building Regulations - REVISED(09/03)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building-code regulation within the City of Perryton.
      “Code of Ordinances - Chapter 6: Building and Building Regulations - REVISED(09/03)”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning administration and zoning ordinances within the City of Booker, an incorporated municipality in Ochiltree County.

    • The City of Booker Council serves as the Planning & Zoning Commission.
    • The commission reviews proposed amendments to zoning ordinances, site plans, and plat applications.
    “The Planning & Zoning Commission is the City of Booker Council. The Commission reviews proposed amendments to the zoning ordinances, site plans and plat applications, and makes decisions regarding the current and future development in the City of Booker.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Subdividing land — Subdivision and platting requirements for land in unincorporated Ochiltree County.
  • Building in a floodplain — Floodplain development requirements in Ochiltree County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Ochiltree 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 Ochiltree County, Texas

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

Ochiltree County scores 47/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (21.4″/yr rainfall) and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

How much does land cost in Ochiltree County, Texas?

Land in Ochiltree County runs about $1,893 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Ochiltree County?

Ochiltree County gets about 21.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 32.6% of years.

How remote is Ochiltree County?

A representative private-land location has about 5,364 people within a 30-minute drive and 402,921 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 Ochiltree compares in Texas

Compare side-by-side →See all 254 Texas counties ranked →