Randall County, TX Building Permits, Zoning & Septic Rules

Unincorporated Randall County, Texas has no general residential building permit; the county's authority is limited to subdivision platting, driveway/access permits, and floodplain development permits¹. Randall County has no zoning ordinance in unincorporated areas, so land use outside the cities of Amarillo and Canyon is governed by subdivision regulations rather than zoning districts². Septic systems are handled by a different government entirely: the Amarillo Area Public Health District, a city health department, permits and inspects OSSF systems for both Potter and Randall counties under county order³⁴.

At a glance

Building permit: Not required in unincorporated Randall County; the county's role is limited to platting, driveway and floodplain permits¹
Zoning: None in unincorporated Randall County; regulated through subdivision platting instead²⁵
Septic permits: Amarillo Area Public Health District (City of Amarillo Environmental Health), the TCEQ-authorized agent for Potter and Randall counties³⁴
Floodplain permit: Class A required for all development outside the mapped 100-year floodplain; Class B required inside it, issued by Road & Bridge⁶
Driveway/culvert permit: Required through Road & Bridge; published fee is $200, plus a processing fee for online or card payment⁷
Septic minimum lot size: 1 acre with a private well, 1/2 acre with a public water supply, with exceptions for lots platted before 1988⁸
RV / tiny home living: Unrestricted under county rules, since Randall County has no zoning ordinance⁵
Septic soil difficulty: 22.3% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field⁹

Who to call

Roads & driveways

Randall County Road & Bridge

Floodplain Development Permits (Class A and Class B), driveway/culvert access permits, and subdivision plat submittals for unincorporated Randall County outside Amarillo's ETJ

806-655-3861

301 W Highway 60, Canyon, TX 79015

Septic permits

Amarillo Area Public Health District (City of Amarillo Environmental Health)

OSSF (septic) permit applications, plan review, and inspections for Randall County, acting as TCEQ's authorized agent under county order

806-378-9472

[email protected]

Simms Municipal Building, Suite 275, 808 S Buchanan St, Amarillo, TX 79101

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 23, 2026.

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

No, unincorporated Randall County does not require a general residential building permit; its development authority is limited to subdivision platting, driveway access, and floodplain development permits¹. Texas gives counties broader building authority only in narrow cases, such as a fire code for counties over 250,000 people or adjacent to one, and separate residential-code standards a county can adopt by resolution near an international border or with a small population, but the reviewed county sources don't show Randall County adopting either¹⁰¹¹. Inside the county, the City of Amarillo is a different story: it enforces the 2021 International Residential Code with city amendments for construction within city limits, but that code doesn't reach unincorporated land¹². Two county permits still apply regardless: a Floodplain Development Permit for any development, and a plat approval if you're subdividing outside Amarillo's ETJ⁶¹³.

Who handles floodplain, driveway, and plat permits in Randall County, and how do you reach them?

Randall County Road & Bridge is the office behind floodplain permits, driveway/culvert access, and plat submittals outside Amarillo's ETJ¹⁴. The office is at 301 W Highway 60, Canyon, TX 79015, and the line is 806-655-3861¹⁴. Office hours run Monday through Thursday starting at 7 a.m.¹⁴. No construction can begin on a floodplain-covered property until this office issues a Floodplain Development Permit, and plat documentation for the Commissioners Court agenda must reach the Road Superintendent by 5 p.m. the Tuesday before the meeting¹⁴¹³. For OSSF (septic) permits, the office to call is a different government altogether: the Amarillo Area Public Health District, a City of Amarillo department that Randall County has authorized by county order to permit and inspect septic systems countywide¹⁵⁴.

Does Randall County have zoning?

No, Randall County has no zoning ordinance in unincorporated areas². Texas gives counties zoning authority only for a handful of special geographic areas, and Randall County isn't one of them, so land outside the cities of Amarillo and Canyon is instead regulated through subdivision platting requirements rather than zoning districts¹⁶. Outside any city, the county sets no minimum home size, no setbacks and no building-height limit⁵. That silence means RVs, tiny homes, manufactured homes and temporary camping on your own land are unrestricted under county rules, though driveway and floodplain permitting still apply to any new structure⁵¹⁷. Subdividing a tract does trigger county review: parcels outside Amarillo's ETJ generally need Commissioners Court plat approval, though dividing land into parts larger than 10 acres, each with its own access and no dedicated public improvement, is exempt¹³.

How do septic permits work in Randall County?

Every OSSF in Randall County needs a permit from the Amarillo Area Public Health District, which Randall County has authorized by county order to permit and inspect septic systems, alongside Potter County³⁴. Lot size matters here in a way most Texas counties don't specify: a property with a private water well needs at least 1 acre, and a property on a public water supply needs at least 1/2 acre, though exceptions may apply to lots platted before 1988⁸. Homeowners can install or repair their own OSSF for a single-family residence they occupy, but rental properties, leased dwellings, or commercial operations must use a licensed installer, and every permit requires paying fees at submission¹⁸. An Authorization to Construct is valid for one calendar year, and the system must pass inspection within that window or a new permit is required¹⁸. Soils here are relatively more forgiving than many Texas counties: 22.3% of Randall County's land is free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, though that still leaves most of the county needing a closer look before you count on a standard system⁹. Every OSSF also requires a 9-1-1 assigned address before you can get a permit¹⁹. If your land instead needs a well, portions of Randall County fall under the High Plains Underground Water Conservation District No. 1, which requires a permit before drilling any well expected to produce 17.5 gallons per minute or more²⁰.

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

Unincorporated Randall County has no zoning ordinance restricting how you occupy your own land, so there's no county rule limiting RV or tiny-home living, and no minimum home size to meet⁵. Two county rules still apply regardless of dwelling type: a Floodplain Development Permit if your land is in a mapped flood zone, and a working sewage-disposal system, since development shall not be approved without adequate facilities in place⁶²¹. If the parcel needs its own driveway, county subdivision rules require satisfactory vehicular access to a street, and shared driveways across multiple lots aren't accepted unless built to full county street standards¹⁷.

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

First, confirm whether your parcel is in the mapped 100-year floodplain, since it determines whether you need a Class A or Class B Development Permit from Road & Bridge before any construction begins¹⁴⁶. Second, order a site evaluation for your septic system early; only 22.3% of the county's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field⁹. Third, apply for your OSSF permit through the Amarillo Area Public Health District, confirming your lot meets the 1-acre (private well) or 1/2-acre (public water) minimum unless it was platted before 1988¹⁵⁸. Fourth, get a 9-1-1 assigned address for the property, required before an OSSF permit is issued¹⁹. Fifth, if you're building a new driveway or culvert onto a county road, apply through Road & Bridge and budget the published $200 fee, plus a processing fee if paying online or by card¹⁴⁷. Sixth, if you're splitting a larger tract outside Amarillo's ETJ, submit your plat documentation to the Road Superintendent by 5 p.m. the Tuesday before the next Commissioners Court meeting¹³. Finally, build: there is no countywide building-permit review for an ordinary single-family home outside the floodplain¹.

What to check before you buy land in Randall County

Water is the headline concern here: annual precipitation runs only about 19 inches a year, and 37.9% of years bring severe drought, the driest and most drought-prone profile among comparable counties, so a reliable well and water budget matter as much as anything else²²²³. Soils are somewhat more forgiving than nearby counties, with 22.3% free of severe septic limitations, but that still means most properties need a real site evaluation before assuming a standard drain field will work⁹. The land is flat and largely open, with 94.8% at 15% slope or less and only about 3% forested²⁴²⁵. Check FEMA flood maps before you buy, since that determines which class of floodplain permit you'll need through Road & Bridge⁶. If the tract you're buying was recently split off a larger parcel outside Amarillo's ETJ, confirm it went through Commissioners Court plat approval or qualifies for the over-10-acre exemption¹³. Typical property tax runs about 1.6% effectively, with a median bill near $3,587 a year, against a typical home value around $263,572²⁶²⁷²⁸.

Watch-outs

Randall County's septic authority is a city health department, the Amarillo Area Public Health District, not a county office; don't call Randall County directly for OSSF permits⁴.
No official source confirms a general owner-builder exemption or a countywide building code for unincorporated Randall County, so ask Road & Bridge directly about any project-specific requirements²⁹.
The driveway/culvert permit fee page doesn't state an effective date, so confirm the current $200 fee and any card-processing surcharge with Road & Bridge before paying⁷.

Sources

Written September 23, 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.

How Randall County scores

Seclusion38100% ev.

Self-Sufficiency1796% ev.

Admin Boringness8490% ev.

Durability42100% ev.

Property Autonomy71100% ev.

Carry Cost77100% 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 →

$264kTypical home

1.6%Property tax

$1,838Land / acre

19.3"Annual rain

37.9% of yrsSevere drought

20.2 / yr (+16.5)Mid-century 100°F days

31.9 daysMid-century dry spell

1.33" (+0.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain

1.25×Wildfire change factor

100%Forward climate coverage

$2,654Home insurance / yr

0.9% / yrInsurance growth

0%Nonrenewal rate

county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis

207,162People within 30 min

786,575People within 2 hr

35,938Radius comparison (15 mi)

162.4People / sq mi

1.3%Federal land

94.8%Land at 15% slope or less

22.3%Septic soil without severe limits

129,464 acWorkable land screen

3%Wooded land

6.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac

58.1°FAvg temp

Answers from the rulebook for Randall County

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

Randall County rules

Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Properties in Randall County requiring an on-site sewage facility.
- An OSSF permit is required when installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF.
- For properties platted before 1988, exceptions may apply.
- The rule applies to properties with private wells or public water supplies as stated.
minimum lot size with private water well: 1 acre · minimum lot size with public water supply: ½ acre
“Yes, a permit is required when installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF in Potter or Randall counties. For properties with a private water well, the minimum lot size is 1 acre, and for those with a public water supply, it’s ½ acre. Exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988.”
On-Site Sewage Facility ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Building height · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Living in an RV · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Camping on your land · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Tiny homes · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Manufactured homes · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule
Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov.
- 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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Who permits septicLocal
Septic systems in Randall County, including the portion outside incorporated municipalities unless a different authorized permitting arrangement applies.
- The authority is granted by County Order in both Potter and Randall Counties.
- OSSF standards are governed by Title 30 of the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 285.
“The Amarillo Area Public Health District is responsible for permitting and inspecting septic systems in Potter and Randall Counties.”
On-Site Sewage Facility ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF in Randall County.
- The Amarillo Area Public Health District states that a permit is required for these activities in Potter or Randall counties.
- For properties with a private water well, the minimum lot size is 1 acre.
- For properties with a public water supply, the minimum lot size is one-half acre.
- Exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988.
- Homeowners may install or repair an OSSF serving their single-family residence, but must submit a permit application and required documents.
- A licensed installer is required for rental properties, leased dwellings, or commercial operations.
- Permit fees must be paid at submission.
- An Authorization to Construct is valid for one calendar year and the OSSF must pass inspection within that period; otherwise a new permit must be applied for.
- State law also identifies a possible 10-acre exemption and an emergency-repair exception subject to the conditions stated by TCEQ.
minimum lot size with private water well: 1 acre (Exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988.) · minimum lot size with public water supply: 0.5 acre (Exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988.) · Authorization to Construct validity: 1 calendar year (The OSSF must pass inspection within this period.)
“Yes, a permit is required when installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF in Potter or Randall counties.”
On-Site Sewage Facility ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)
Private OSSF sanitation serving a single-family residence in Randall County instead of connection to a public sewer system.
- A permit application and required documents must be submitted to the City of Amarillo Environmental Health Department.
- The installation must meet Title 30 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 285.
- A licensed installer is required for rental properties, leased dwellings, or commercial operations.
- The source does not authorize unpermitted disposal or sanitation systems outside the OSSF rules.
- A 9-1-1 assigned address is required for every property with an OSSF.
- A permit is generally required, subject to stated exceptions.
“Homeowners can install or repair their OSSF if it serves their single-family residence, but they must submit a permit application and required documents to the City of Amarillo Environmental Health Department.”
On-Site Sewage Facility ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Well permitLimited
The portions of Randall County within the High Plains Underground Water Conservation District No. 1.
- HPWD jurisdiction covers only portions of Randall County, not necessarily the entire county.
- A permit is required before drilling and producing water from a well expected to produce 17.5 gallons per minute or more.
- Water wells producing less than 17.5 gallons per minute do not require an HPWD permit, but may be registered.
- Minimum spacing requirements vary by aquifer and expected production.
- The HPWD source does not establish the rule for Randall County areas outside HPWD.
permit threshold: >= 17.5 gallons per minute (Wells producing less than 17.5 gpm do not require an HPWD permit.)
“Groundwater owners are required to apply for a permit prior to drilling and production of water from any well expected to produce 17.5 gallons of water per minute or more.”
Well Permitting ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Mandatory utility hookupConditional
Land proposed for development under Randall County subdivision or platting regulations, not every existing parcel or every incorporated municipality.
- Land proposed for development must be served adequately by essential public facilities and services.
- Development approval requires adequate facilities to exist or provision to have been made for them, whether on-site or off-site.
- The developer must demonstrate extensions of public facilities and roadways, including necessary on-site and off-site facilities, to connect to existing public facilities when applicable.
- The developer must obtain approvals from applicable public and private utility providers and comply with their requirements.
- The source does not establish a countywide requirement that every parcel connect to public water or sewer.
“Land shall not be approved for site development under Section 2. Subdivision Procedures or platting under Section 3. Subdivision Plat Applications unless and until adequate public facilities as defined in this section and according to the established levels of service exist, or provision has been made for the facilities, whether the facilities are to be located within the property being developed or off-site.”
2023 Randall County Subdivision Regulations-Final ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Driveway accessRequired
Existing and proposed development subject to Randall County subdivision regulations outside the cities of Amarillo and Canyon.
- A satisfactory means of vehicular ingress and egress to a street or abutting site is required.
- On-site parking must access a street, drive aisle, or cross-access easement.
- Parking must allow forward entry and exit unless otherwise approved by the Responsible Official.
- Driveway design and construction must comply with the subdivision section or the International Fire Code.
- Driveway dimensions at the street right-of-way must comply with Randall County Access Management Standards.
- The Responsible Official may require wider driveways for unusual traffic, grade, or site conditions.
- Shared driveways extending along multiple lots will not be accepted; if used as a subdivision access easement, the driveway is treated as a street and must meet county street standards.
“All existing and proposed development must provide a satisfactory means of vehicular ingress and egress to and from a street or an abutting site.”
2023 Randall County Subdivision Regulations-Final ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Building in a floodplainRequired
All development in Randall County, including development outside and within the mapped 100-year floodplain.
- No construction can begin until a Floodplain Development Permit is issued.
- Class A is required outside the mapped 100-year floodplain; Class B is required where property lies partially or wholly within the mapped 100-year floodplain.
- Residential development is prohibited within an identified floodway.
- Federal floodplain regulations under 44 CFR also apply.
“Class A Development Permit is required for all development outside the mapped 100-year floodplain of Randall County. Class B Development Permit is required for all development of property that lies partially or wholly within the mapped 100-year floodplain of Randall County.”
Floodplain Management ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Access culvert and driveway permits for facilities on Randall County rights-of-way.
- The stated fee is payable by cash, check, money order, credit, or debit card, online or in person at the Randall County Road & Bridge office.
- Online or credit/debit card payments have an added processing fee.
- The page does not state an effective date for the fee.
driveway/culvert permit fee: 200 USD (Any online payment or credit/debit card usage will have a processing fee added.)
“Driveway/Culvert Permit Fee: $200 whether paid by Cash/Check/Money Order/Credit/Debit cards, when paying on-line or in person at the Randall County Road & Bridge office. (Any online payment or credit/debit card usage will have a processing fee added.)”
Access Culvert / Driveway ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Variable (with conditions) — Subdivision and public-improvement review and inspection fees for land within Randall County outside Amarillo and Canyon.
  “The developer will be charged an inspection fee as per the Fee Schedule. The developer may be charged an additional inspection fee to reimburse the County the actual inspection cost if the County is required to have third party inspections and testing of the Public Improvements in each subdivision or development.”
  2023 Randall County Subdivision Regulations-Final ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Floodplain development permit process for development in Randall County.
- No construction may begin until a Floodplain Development Permit is issued.
- A Class A permit applies outside the mapped 100-year floodplain.
- A Class B permit applies to property partially or wholly within the mapped 100-year floodplain.
- Development includes buildings, dredging, excavation or drilling, filling, grading, mining, paving, and storage of equipment or materials.
“Please note that no construction can begin unless a Floodplain Development Permit has been issued by this office.”
Floodplain Management ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Published (with conditions) — Plat and subdivision approval outside the cities of Amarillo and Canyon, including county approval of land division and subdivision improvements.
  “Plat within the city of Amarillo ETJ do not go through Randall County Commissioners Court. Plats are most placed on the agenda until above conditions are met. To ensure placement on the next Commissioners Court. All Documentation must be submitted to the Road Superintendent by 5 p.m. on the Tuesday prior.”
  Plat Approval Form ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
County-wide zoningAbsent
Texas counties have no zoning authority; Randall County regulates subdivision/platting in the unincorporated area but does not zone.
Randall County Subdivision Regulations (2023) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Texas rules that apply here

Building permitLimited
New residential construction of a single-family house or duplex in the unincorporated area of a county that has adopted a resolution or order applying Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233, Subchapter F.
- The subchapter applies only if the county has adopted a resolution or order requiring its application and the county satisfies the statutory location or population condition.
- A municipality's building code controls in its extraterritorial jurisdiction if the municipality has adopted a building code there.
- The statute does not require prior county approval before construction under this subchapter, and it does not authorize county zoning regulations.
- The statute applies to new residential construction beginning after September 1, 2009.
- The source does not establish that Randall County adopted the required resolution or order.
“may not be construed to: (1) require prior approval by the county”
Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233 — County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
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:”
Industrialized Housing and Buildings – Adoption of New Code Editions ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
InspectionsRequired
New residential construction covered by Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233, Subchapter F.
- The county must have adopted a resolution or order requiring application of the subchapter.
- For a new residence on a vacant lot, at least three inspections are required: foundation before concrete placement, framing and mechanical systems before drywall or other interior wall covering, and completion.
- For additions, inspections are performed as necessary based on the scope of work.
- The builder must contract with an authorized inspector category listed in the statute.
- County notice before construction and post-final-inspection notice are required only if the county requires them.
minimum inspections for new residential construction on vacant lot: >= 3 inspections (Additions are inspected as necessary based on scope of work.)
“a minimum of three inspections must be performed”
Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233 — County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
Septic inspectionLimited
OSSF installation and, where applicable, maintenance inspections in Texas
- Authorized agents or their designated representatives inspect system installation.
- Some permitting authorities impose more stringent requirements.
- Maintenance-provider inspection and reporting requirements apply to systems and circumstances governed by 30 TAC §285.91(4).
- Electronic monitoring may reduce reporting to every six months where the stated monitoring conditions apply.
reduced maintenance reporting interval with qualifying electronic monitoring: 6 months (only where the system uses the specified electronic monitoring, automatic notification, and disinfection monitoring)
“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.”
Basics for Septic Systems ↗Re-checked Sep 12, 2026
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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
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.”
Local Government Code Chapter 233, County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026

Inside cities and towns in Randall County

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

Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
Residential construction regulated by the City of Amarillo.
- The cited page describes the 2021 International Residential Code with City amendments.
- Building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work must comply with Amarillo City Code.
- The page states it is a summary and directs users to Ordinance 7101 for amendments.
- The page does not establish applicability in unincorporated Randall County.
residential code edition: 2021 International Residential Code with City amendments (Review Ordinance 7101 for amendments)
“The following represents frequently asked questions and/or violations of the 2021 International Residential Code with City amendments.”
Residential Code Information ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026

Still unanswered

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

Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy for residential buildings in Randall County's unincorporated area.
Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Randall 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 Randall County, Texas

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

Randall County scores 42/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (19.3″/yr rainfall) and about 207,162 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Randall County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Amarillo Area Public Health District (City of Amarillo Environmental Health), TCEQ Authorized Agent. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Randall County is allowed: Unincorporated Randall County: no county rule sets this, because Texas law gives zoning power only to certain counties, and Randall County has no zoning ordinance. The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing randallcounty.gov. 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. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Randall County, Texas?

Land in Randall County runs about $1,838 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Randall County?

Randall County gets about 19.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 37.9% of years.

How remote is Randall County?

A representative private-land location has about 207,162 people within a 30-minute drive and 786,575 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.

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

At a glance

Who to call

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

Who handles floodplain, driveway, and plat permits in Randall County, and how do you reach them?

Does Randall County have zoning?

How do septic permits work in Randall County?

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

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

What to check before you buy land in Randall County

Watch-outs

Sources

Randall County in Texas

How Randall County scores

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Parcel due diligence

Answers from the rulebook for Randall County

Randall County rules

Texas rules that apply here

Inside cities and towns in Randall County

Still unanswered

Living off-grid in Randall County, Texas

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

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

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

How much does land cost in Randall County, Texas?

What is the water situation in Randall County?

How remote is Randall County?

How Randall compares in Texas