Bolthole Index

Alpine County, California

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Alpine County, California

31Index Score / 100
#43 of 58 in California

Alpine County, California requires a separate building permit for a new home and most construction, and the county enforces zoning through Title 18.12 Building Safety checks plans and inspects permitted work, while Environmental Health permits and inspects residential septic installations.34

At a glance

Building permit
Required for a new home and most construction5
Zoning
County zoning applies; standards vary by district26
Septic
Environmental Health approval is required before building permits7
RV living
Private-site living or camping is limited to 16 days per calendar year unless Planning Commission approves an extension89
Owner-builder
Property owners may receive permits as owner-builders10
Minimum home size
A single-family unit must have at least 600 square feet of floor area and be at least 20 feet in its least dimension11
Manufactured home
One may be treated as a single-family residence in AG, AP, RE and RN zones with a certificate of compatibility12
Water well
A county permit is required for construction, deepening, repair or destruction13

Who to call

Building permits

Alpine County Building Safety Division

Building permits, plan checks, inspections and county building requirements

530-694-2140

50 Diamond Valley Rd, Markleeville, CA 96120

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Alpine County Planning Division

Zoning, development review, maps, special-event permits and code enforcement

530-694-2140

50 Diamond Valley Rd, Markleeville, CA 96120

Online permits →

Septic permits

Alpine County Health Department, Environmental Health

Residential septic-system permitting and installation inspections

530.694.2235

Health and Human Services, 75 A Diamond Valley Rd, Markleeville, CA 96120

Roads & driveways

Alpine County Engineering Department

County-road encroachment permits, including driveway access

530-694-2140

50 Diamond Valley Rd, Markleeville, CA 96120

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

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Going off-grid in Alpine County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Alpine County, California?

Yes. Alpine County generally requires permits for improvements, replacements and repairs, and requires a separate permit before a building or structure is erected, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted or demolished.51 The county identifies new attached or detached structures larger than 120 square feet, carports, garages, barns and grading of at least 50 cubic yards among work requiring permits and inspections; setbacks still apply when work is permit-exempt.1

Alpine County has adopted and enforces the California Building Standards Code in Title 24, including applicable local amendments for buildings in flood hazard areas.14 Building Safety reviews plans before permit issuance and periodically inspects permitted work.3 Property owners may receive permits as owner-builders, but they accept responsibility for the work and worker safety and must follow the county's residence, labor and resale conditions.1015 Owner-builder status does not eliminate building-permit or inspection requirements.53

Who issues Alpine County building permits, and how do you apply?

The Alpine County Building Safety Division accepts building applications through the county's online portal, reviews plans and periodically inspects permitted work.16173 The office is at 50 Diamond Valley Rd in Markleeville and can be reached at 530-694-2140.16

The applicant must provide the information relevant to the proposed project and route plans for required agency approvals before permit issuance.17 Alpine County publishes a plan-review deposit estimated at $1.00 per square foot up to $2,500.00, subject to the Building Official's determination.18 If part of the project can be occupied safely before all permitted work is complete, the building official may issue a temporary certificate of occupancy for up to 90 days; a written extension request must show circumstances beyond the applicant's control.19 Projects that need special inspections must file a final report before a Certificate of Use and Occupancy is issued, and enclosing space under an elevated building in a flood hazard area requires a recorded nonconversion agreement first.20

Does Alpine County have zoning?

Alpine County has countywide zoning under Title 18, with allowed uses, setbacks, parking requirements and height limits varying by district.2 The AG Agriculture Zone generally requires 20 acres, the NC Neighborhood Commercial Zone requires 10,000 square feet and the C Commercial Zone requires 5,000 square feet, although conditional uses can change those minimums.212223 In RN and RE zones, the county sets minimum parcel size site by site based on services, environmental conditions and the General Plan; a zoning suffix can state the result.2425 Where public water or sewer is unavailable, lot size must also comply with the county's onsite-wastewater program.26

The MHD Markleeville Historic District uses the underlying zone's lot-area rule unless its design guidelines are more restrictive.27 A CR Commercial Recreation combined zone generally inherits area and width standards from its paired zone, with the more restrictive rule controlling when the standards differ.28 A single-family unit must contain at least 600 square feet of floor area and measure at least 20 feet in its least dimension.11 In the AG Zone, standard front, side and rear yards are each 30 feet unless changed for a conditional use.29 The Planning Division handles zoning maps and code enforcement.30

How do septic permits work in Alpine County?

Alpine County Health Department Environmental Health permits residential septic systems and inspects their installation.4 For construction needing a new or replacement onsite wastewater treatment system, submit a permit application and scaled plot plan to Environmental Health; that approval must come before Building Safety can issue its permit.7

Site feasibility deserves early attention: only 0.4% of mapped county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field.31 That soil statistic does not decide an individual parcel, but it makes a parcel-specific evaluation especially important. Alternative or supplemental systems require annual inspection, and service inspections trigger written reporting requirements.32 Cesspools, surface effluent discharge and systems dedicated to substantial RV holding-tank waste are not authorized.33

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Alpine County?

Alpine County allows living, sleeping or camping in an RV on a private site owned by the occupant, or used with the owner's written consent, for no more than 16 days per calendar year unless the Planning Commission approves an occupancy-permit extension.34 An extension may require advance notice, sanitary-waste receipts, Environmental Health approval and a one-RV limit.35

A tiny home must qualify and be approved under an authorized housing category, but we could not confirm a more specific Alpine County tiny-home occupancy rule; ask Planning and Building Safety before relying on one as a dwelling.36 A single mobile or manufactured home may be treated as a single-family residence in the AG, AP, RE and RN zones after approval of a certificate of compatibility.12 Alpine County permits ADUs in listed districts, but an ADU cannot be a short-term rental and must be rented for more than 30 days.3738

Building a home in Alpine County: what are the steps?

  1. Ask Planning to confirm the parcel's zoning, allowed residential use, setbacks and height standard.3940
  2. Confirm legal access; driveway work in a county road right-of-way requires an encroachment permit from Engineering.41
  3. Resolve water and wastewater early. A new or replacement septic system needs Environmental Health approval before a building permit, and well construction requires a county permit.713
  4. Submit the building application and project information through the online portal, then obtain required agency sign-offs.17
  5. Complete plan review, pay the applicable fees and call Building Safety for inspections as work reaches each required phase.183
  6. Do not occupy unfinished permitted space without Building Official approval; a temporary certificate is limited to 90 days unless a written extension is granted.19

What should you check before buying land in Alpine County?

Start with buildability, not acreage alone. Only 8.2% of Alpine County land has a slope of 15% or less, and 0.4% of mapped soils avoid a severe conventional-drain-field limitation.4231 Ask Planning about zoning, Environmental Health about septic and well feasibility, and Engineering about driveway access.304344

If land is being split, a tentative parcel map covers a division into four or fewer parcels, while a tentative subdivision map is required for five or more; a final or parcel map cannot go to the recorder until required improvements are completed or secured by agreement.4546 A residential short-term rental requires a county license, and the East Slope overlay caps licenses outside commercial zones at 35.4748 Projects in the Bear Valley, Kirkwood and Markleeville service areas also need the applicable provider's water or sewer approval before a building permit.49

Watch-outs

  • Permit-exempt work must still maintain Alpine County's applicable building setbacks.1
  • Private-site RV occupancy or camping is limited to 16 days per calendar year unless the Planning Commission approves an occupancy-permit extension.89
  • Environmental Health must approve a required new or replacement septic system before Building Safety can issue the building permit.7
  • A driveway connection involving a county road right-of-way requires an Alpine County encroachment permit.41

Sources

  1. Building Safety Division, quoted and re-checked
  2. General Plan Housing Element Update Draft, quoted and re-checked
  3. Building Safety Division, quoted and re-checked
  4. Liquid Waste, quoted and re-checked
  5. Building Safety Division | Alpine County, CA, quoted and re-checked
  6. General Plan Housing Element Update Draft, quoted and re-checked
  7. Local Area Management Program (LAMP), quoted and re-checked
  8. Planning Commission Meeting: Camping on Private Property, quoted and re-checked
  9. Planning Commission Meeting: Camping on Private Property, quoted and re-checked
  10. Building Safety Division | Alpine County, CA, quoted and re-checked
  11. Alpine County Housing Element, quoted and re-checked
  12. Alpine County Housing Element, quoted and re-checked
  13. Well Permits, quoted and re-checked
  14. Alpine County Code, Chapter 16.08 Floodplain Management, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Safety Division, quoted and re-checked
  16. Alpine County Building Safety Division (alpinecountyca.gov)
  17. Building Permit Information Guide, March 2022, quoted and re-checked
  18. Building Permit Information Guide, March 2022, quoted and re-checked
  19. County of Alpine Building Code Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  20. Statement of Special Inspections, 2022 CBC, quoted and re-checked
  21. Chapter 18.16 AG Agriculture Zone, quoted and re-checked
  22. Chapter 18.40 NC Neighborhood Commercial Zone, quoted and re-checked
  23. Chapter 18.44 C Commercial Zone, quoted and re-checked
  24. Chapter 18.36 RN Residential Neighborhood Zone, quoted and re-checked
  25. Chapter 18.32 RE Residential Estate Zone, quoted and re-checked
  26. Alpine County 6th Cycle Housing Element, zoning district lot sizes, quoted and re-checked
  27. Chapter 18.56 MHD Markleeville Historic District Combined Zone, quoted and re-checked
  28. Chapter 18.64 CR Commercial Recreation Combined Zone, quoted and re-checked
  29. Chapter 18.16 AG Agriculture Zone, quoted and re-checked
  30. Alpine County Planning Division (alpinecountyca.gov)
  31. 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
  32. alpinecountyca.gov, quoted and re-checked
  33. Local Area Management Program (LAMP), quoted and re-checked
  34. Planning Commission Camping on Private Property Discussion, quoted and re-checked
  35. Planning Commission Camping on Private Property Discussion, quoted and re-checked
  36. Information Bulletin 2016-01: Tiny Homes (California statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  37. Accessory Dwelling Unit Information Sheet, quoted and re-checked
  38. Accessory Dwelling Unit Information Sheet, quoted and re-checked
  39. Alpine County 6th Cycle Housing Element, quoted and re-checked
  40. Chapter 18.68 General Requirements and Exceptions, quoted and re-checked
  41. Building Permit Information Guide, March 2022, quoted and re-checked
  42. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Alpine County Health Department, Environmental Health (alpinecountyca.gov)
  44. Alpine County Engineering Department (alpinecountyca.gov)
  45. Planning and Development Information Guide, quoted and re-checked
  46. Alpine County Code Chapter 17.13, Construction of Improvements, quoted and re-checked
  47. Chapter 18.73 Residential Short-Term Rentals, quoted and re-checked
  48. Chapter 18.73 Residential Short-Term Rentals, quoted and re-checked
  49. Alpine County Building Permit Information Guide, quoted and re-checked

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, Alpine County has countywide zoning.

RuleAlpine CountyEl Dorado CountyTuolumne CountyAmador CountyPlacer CountyCalaveras CountyMono County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Env. Management Dept.County Env. Health Div.County Env. Health Dept.County Env. HealthCounty Env. Management AgencyCounty Env. Health

County locator

Alpine County in California

31
County map
Alpine County highlighted among the California counties · colored by Index score

How Alpine County scores

Seclusion74100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency13100% ev.
Admin Boringness41100% ev.
Durability23100% ev.
Property Autonomy56100% ev.
Carry Cost64100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$516kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$4,950Land / acre
36"Annual rain
37.2% of yrsSevere drought
0.1 / yr (+0.1)Mid-century 100°F days
37.6 daysMid-century dry spell
3.3" (+5.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.08×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$3,122Home insurance / yr
5.3% / yrInsurance growth
3.89%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
664,104People within 2 hr
26,585Radius comparison (15 mi)
1.5People / sq mi
93%Federal land
8.2%Land at 15% slope or less
0.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
1,905 acWorkable land screen
63.1%Wooded land
48.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
44.4°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Alpine County

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

Alpine County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, repair, movement, improvement, removal, conversion, or demolition of buildings and structures in Alpine County.

    • Exemptions from permitting are allowed for certain work and vary by jurisdiction.
    • The county lists one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses as exempt when the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet.
    • Other listed exemptions include fences not over 7 feet high and retaining walls not over 4 feet high unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II, or IIIA liquids.
    • All exempt work remains subject to applicable code and ordinance requirements.

    detached accessory structure exemption floor area: <= 120 square feet (One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses.)

    “In general, improvements, replacements, and repairs require permits.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Buildings, structures, improvements, replacements, repairs, alterations, relocations, conversions, demolitions, and other construction activities in Alpine County, including attached and detached residential and nonresidential buildings, tenant improvements, solar installations, patio covers, additions, pools, spas, carports, garages, barns, specified fences and retaining walls, utility repairs, reroofing, temporary structures, grading of 50 cubic yards or more, erosion control, and signs.
      “California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Building Standards Code require that no building or structure may be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted or demolished unless a separate permit for each building or structure has been issued.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Property owners seeking Alpine County building permits as Owner/Builders.

    • Only licensed contractors and property owners (Owner/Builder) may be issued building permits.
    • Owner/Builders assume full responsibility for the work and their workers' safety and are assumed to have the same knowledge of codes and construction methods as licensed contractors.
    • The work may only be done on an Owner/Builder's principal place of residence that they have occupied for 12 months or more prior to completion of the work.
    • Owner/Builders cannot sell more than two properties for which they were issued a building permit during any three-year period.
    • Owner/Builders must do the work by themselves or with immediate family, employees, or licensed subcontractors.

    prior principal-residence occupancy: >= 12 months (The work may only be done on the Owner/Builder's principal place of residence.) · properties sold under owner-builder permits: <= 2 properties per three-year period

    “Only licensed contractors and property owners (Owner/Builder) may be issued building permits. Contractors must have the appropriate classification for the work, such as C36 for plumbing. Owner/Builders assume full responsibility for the work and their workers’ safety and are assumed to have the same knowledge of codes and construction methods as licensed contractors. The work may only be done on an Owner/Builder’s principal place of residence that they have occupied for 12 months or more prior to completion of the work. Owner/Builders cannot sell more than two properties for which they were issued a building permit during any three-year period. Owner/Builders must do the work by themselves or with immediate family, employees, or licensed subcontractors.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Owner-builder building permits for property owners undertaking construction in Alpine County.
      “Only licensed contractors and property owners (Owner/Builder) may be issued building permits.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    Alpine County administration and enforcement of the California Building Standards Code for buildings and structures in the county.

    • The cited provision appears in the county floodplain-management chapter and expressly addresses administration and enforcement of the California Building Standards Code.
    • Applications for buildings and structures in flood hazard areas must comply with the applicable building-code requirements and local amendments specified in Alpine County Code Section 16.08.520.
    • The cited provision is enacted by Ordinance 753, adopted in 2023; the source does not state an effective date.

    adopted code: California Building Standards Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24 (The county provision refers to applicable local amendments.) · building-code components identified by the county: Parts 2, 2.5, 10, and other specified codes

    “Alpine County has adopted and enforces the 2019 2021 California Building Standards Code, including Chapter 11A which addresses the provisions for housing accessibility for people with disabilities and Chapter 11B which addresses the provisions for accessibility to public buildings, public accommodations, commercial buildings, and public housing for people with disabilities.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction and other work in Alpine County for which the county requires permits and inspections, including listed buildings, structures, repairs, alterations, temporary structures, grading, and demolition.

    • The county uses plan checks and jobsite inspections to enforce the Building Standards Code.
    • Inspections are periodically performed to monitor phases of construction.
    • The county's listed permit-and-inspection requirements include the stated work categories and thresholds.
    • Special inspections, when required by the approved plans and applicable California Building Code provisions, require interim reports and a final report before issuance of a Certificate of Use and Occupancy.

    retaining wall height: > 4 feet (Measured from the bottom of the footing or for retaining walls supporting a surcharge.) · fence height: > 6 feet

    “The process which jurisdictions use for enforcing the Building Standards Code is Plan Check and Inspections. Plan Check reviews construction documents, including the design drawings, before a permit is issued to assure that the building and its environment systems and equipment (plumbing, electrical, mechanical) will comply with regulations for structural safety, energy conservation, green technology, and handicapped accessibility. Jobsite inspections are periodically performed by jurisdictions to monitor phases of construction.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Projects in Alpine County subject to the cited special-inspection requirements, and development in flood hazard areas where the cited floodplain conditions apply.

    • For projects requiring special inspections, a final report documenting required special inspections, testing, and correction of discrepancies must be submitted before issuance of a Certificate of Use and Occupancy.
    • For projects enclosing areas under elevated buildings in flood hazard areas, a signed nonconversion agreement must be recorded on the property deed before issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
    • The building official may issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before completion of the entire permitted work only if the occupied portion can be occupied safely.
    • A temporary certificate of occupancy is limited to 90 days; an extension must be requested in writing and show circumstances beyond the applicant's control, and an additional-extension fee may apply.

    temporary certificate of occupancy duration: <= 90 days (Written extension may be requested for circumstances beyond the applicant's control; an additional extension fee may apply.)

    “For projects proposing to enclose areas under elevated buildings, include a signed nonconversion agreement (declaration of land restriction); the agreement shall be recorded on the property deed prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Temporary certificate of occupancy for a portion of work covered by an Alpine County building permit before the entire permitted work is complete.
      “The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy [...] The time period of temporary occupancy is limited to 90 days.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Alpine County zoning regulations and development standards administered under Title 18 of the County Code.

    • Title 18 regulates allowable land uses and development standards through different zoning districts.
    • The cited source identifies zoning as one tool implementing the General Plan.
    “Alpine County’s zoning regulations are contained in Title 18 of County Code and are one of several tools to implement the General Plan. Title 18 specifies allowable land uses and development standards such as setbacks, parking requirements, and height limits for different zoning districts.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Alpine County, aggregated across the County's zoning districts and site-specific development standards.

    • Title 18 contains different zoning districts with differing allowable land uses and development standards.
    • Residential zoning districts identified by the County include Agriculture, Agriculture Preserve, Residential Estates, Residential Neighborhood, Neighborhood Commercial, Commercial, Institutional, and Planned Development.
    • For new residential lots, minimum lot sizes range from 1,500 square feet to 5.0 acres in the residential zones.
    • The Planned Development zone allows minimum parcel size, lot width, and other standards to be modified through site-specific evaluation.

    minimum residential lot size range: 1,500 square feet to 5.0 acres

    “Table II-4 shows the allowed densities, lot sizes, and lot widths of the various zoning districts within the County that allow residential uses. For the creation of new lots, minimum lot sizes range from 1,500 square feet to 5.0 acres in the residential zones.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    County zoning districts and development standards for unincorporated Alpine County.

    • Title 18 contains the County zoning regulations; district-specific uses and standards may vary.
    • The County Housing Element identifies residential zoning districts including AG, AP, RE-1, RE-5, RN, and PD, and notes that NC, C, IND, and INS classifications may be applied subject to General Plan map conformance.
    • The Planned Development district permits site-specific modification of minimum parcel size, lot width, and other standards.

    minimum residential lot-size range: 1,500 square feet to 5.0 acres (for creation of new lots in residential zones; Planned Development standards may be modified through site-specific evaluation)

    “Alpine County’s zoning regulations are contained in Title 18 of County Code and are one of several tools to implement the General Plan. Title 18 specifies allowable land uses and development standards such as setbacks, parking requirements, and height limits for different zoning districts.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Single-family dwelling units governed by Alpine County Zoning Code Title 18.

    • Section 18.08.280 defines a single-family unit as having a minimum of 600 square feet of floor area and a minimum 20-foot least dimension.
    • Single-family units are permitted by right in the AG, AP, RE, and RN zones.
    • Single-family units require an approved conditional use permit in the NC and C zones.
    • The cited source does not establish a separate minimum dwelling size for duplex or multifamily units.

    minimum floor area: >= 600 square feet · minimum least dimension: >= 20 feet

    “Single family units are defined in Section 18.08.280 of the Alpine County Zoning Code as a building containing exclusively one dwelling unit and having a minimum of six hundred square feet of floor area and a minimum of twenty feet in the least dimension.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    County zoning districts identified in Alpine County's Housing Element zoning tables.

    • Agriculture Preserve (AP) requires 100 acres; Agriculture (AG) requires 20 acres; RE-5 requires 5 acres; RE-1 requires 1 acre; RN requires 8,000 square feet; NC requires 10,000 square feet; C requires 5,000 square feet; PD varies.
    • Where public water or public sanitary sewer is not accessible, lot-size requirements must conform to the County's Local Area Management Program for onsite wastewater treatment systems.
    • The County may not approve a land division or subdivision creating a parcel smaller than one-half acre net unless each parcel is served by sanitary sewer, or smaller than one acre where domestic water is from a private well or spring and sewage disposal is by a private onsite system.

    AG minimum lot size: >= 20 acres · AP minimum lot size: >= 100 acres · RE-5 minimum lot size: >= 5 acres · RE-1 minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · RN minimum lot size: >= 8000 square feet · NC minimum lot size: >= 10000 square feet · C minimum lot size: >= 5000 square feet

    “It is important to note that where a public water supply and/or public sanitary sewer is not accessible, lot size requirements shall conform to Alpine County’s Local Area Management Program (LAMP) for lots served by an onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS).”
    7 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Parcels in the RN Residential Neighborhood Zone.
      “Minimum parcel size shall be decided by the county on a site-by-site basis and shall be dependent on the availability of public services”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Parcels in the RE Residential Estate Zone.
      “Minimum parcel size shall be decided by the county on a site-by-site basis and shall be dependent on the availability of public services”
    • Specified — Parcels in the AG Agriculture Zone.
      “The following minimum requirements shall be observed in the AG zone, except where changed for conditional uses: A. Parcel area: twenty acres;”
    • Specified — Parcels in the NC Neighborhood Commercial Zone.
      “The following minimum requirements shall be observed, except where changed for conditional uses: A. Lot area: ten thousand square feet;”
    • Specified — Parcels in the C Commercial Zone.
      “The following minimum requirements shall be observed, except where changed for conditional uses: A. Lot area: five thousand square feet;”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Parcels in the Markleeville Historic District Combined Zone.
      “The building height, lot area and setback requirements in the MHD combined zone shall be as stated in the underlying zone”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Parcels in a CR Commercial Recreation Combined Zone.
      “Area, lot width and yard requirements shall be those with which the —CR zone is combined”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Required yards/setbacks for parcels in Alpine County's AG Agriculture Zone.

    • The requirements apply in the AG zone.
    • The code states that the minimum requirements apply except where changed for conditional uses.

    front yard: >= 30 feet (Except where changed for conditional uses.) · side yard: >= 30 feet (Except where changed for conditional uses.) · rear yard: >= 30 feet (Except where changed for conditional uses.)

    “C. Front yard: thirty feet; D. Side yard: thirty feet; E. Rear yard: thirty feet.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Buildings in Alpine County zoning districts, subject to the exclusions and slope-based East Slope and West Slope standards in Title 18.

    • The height regulations apply to all buildings except those constructed in commercial, industrial, or institutional zones and except those established for commercial, industrial, or institutional uses pursuant to an approved planned development.
    • East Slope main-building limits vary by building-envelope slope: 34 feet at 10 percent or less, 35 feet at more than 10 percent through 20 percent, and 36 feet above 20 percent.
    • West Slope main-building limits vary by building-envelope slope: 36 feet at 10 percent or less, 38 feet at more than 10 percent through 20 percent, and 40 feet above 20 percent.
    • Accessory buildings on the East or West Slope may not exceed 25 feet.
    • A variance may exceed the limits only if granted under Chapter 18.80 and required front, rear, and side setbacks are increased one foot for each one foot of additional height.
    • Public or private utility water tanks, radio aerials, television antennae, and similar structures may exceed the height limit by up to 25 feet only with a conditional use permit; public utility transmission towers and pole lines are not subject to the height limitations.
    • Chimneys and vent pipes may exceed applicable height limits by not more than three feet, subject to the stated plan-area and dimension limits.

    East Slope main building height, building-envelope slope <=10%: <= 34 feet · East Slope main building height, building-envelope slope >10% and <=20%: <= 35 feet · East Slope main building height, building-envelope slope >20%: <= 36 feet · West Slope main building height, building-envelope slope <=10%: <= 36 feet · West Slope main building height, building-envelope slope >10% and <=20%: <= 38 feet · West Slope main building height, building-envelope slope >20%: <= 40 feet · accessory building height: <= 25 feet

    “The following height regulations shall apply to all buildings except those constructed in commercial, industrial or institutional zones”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Living or sleeping in a recreational vehicle or otherwise using an RV as a camp, campsite, or camping area in Alpine County.

    • Use is allowed within an approved and authorized public or private recreational trailer park or camping area equipped and operated for that use.
    • Temporary use and occupancy is permitted on a private site owned by the occupant or with the written consent of the site owner for no more than 16 days in any calendar year.
    • The 16-day period may be extended by Planning Commission approval of an occupancy permit.
    • Administration must conform to applicable federal and state law, local codes, health regulations, the County General Plan, and Title 13 of the County Code.
    • Permits may include conditions and standards for lot size and design, yards, park areas, landscaping, walls or enclosures, signs, access, vehicle parking, and accessory structures and uses.
    • A mobile home or RV may be parked for storage only on the owner's property if it is never occupied for living or sleeping, is not connected to water, power, sewerage, or other utility services, and does not occupy a required front or street-side yard or a sight-distance area on a street-corner lot or parcel.

    temporary private-site occupancy limit: <= 16 days per calendar year (May be extended by Planning Commission approval of an occupancy permit.)

    “No recreational vehicle may be used or occupied for living or sleeping purposes”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Living or sleeping in a recreational vehicle on private property or in a camping area in Alpine County.
      “Temporary use and occupancy for such purposes is permitted on a private site owned by the use occupant, or with the written consent of the site owner, for a period not to exceed sixteen days in any calendar year. Such period may be extended by planning commission approval of an occupancy permit.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping or use of a camp, campsite, or camping area for living or sleeping purposes in Alpine County, including on private sites.

    • Camping for living or sleeping is allowed within an approved and authorized public or private recreational trailer park or camping area equipped and operated for that use.
    • Temporary use and occupancy is permitted on a private site owned by the occupant or with the written consent of the site owner for no more than 16 days in any calendar year.
    • The 16-day period may be extended by Planning Commission approval of an occupancy permit.
    • Administration must conform to applicable federal and state law, local codes, health regulations, the County General Plan, and Title 13 of the County Code.
    • Permits may include conditions and standards for lot size and design, yards, park areas, landscaping, walls or enclosures, signs, access, vehicle parking, and accessory structures and uses.

    temporary private-site camping limit: <= 16 days per calendar year (May be extended by Planning Commission approval of an occupancy permit.)

    “for a period not to exceed sixteen days in any calendar year.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Temporary camping on a private site in Alpine County.
      “Applicant shall provide Community Development notification of camping date exceeding 16-day limit in advance. Applicant shall provide Community Development and Environmental Health sanitary waste dump receipts. Only one recreational vehicle (RV) is allowed, pursuant to regulations. The permittee shall obtain all necessary Alpine County Environmental Health approval. No fireworks or pyrotechnics.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Occupancy and installation of a single manufactured home as a single-family residence in Alpine County zoning districts.

    • A single manufactured home may be treated as a single-family residence only in the AG, AP, RE, and RN zones with approval of a certificate of compatibility under the cited County Zoning Code summary.
    • The unit may only be occupied as a single-family residence.
    • Installation must comply with all provisions applicable to the zone.
    • The unit must be installed on a foundation and meet applicable federal or state construction standards and the County Building Ordinance.
    • The owner must provide licensed civil-engineer certification addressing applicable snow, wind, and seismic loads.
    • Exterior covering, roof-overhang, and roofing-material requirements apply.
    • Multiple mobile homes and mobile-home parks require an approved conditional use permit in the RN zone.
    • The Housing Element states that certificate-of-compatibility requirements exceeding state law are not enforced to the extent inconsistent with state law.

    permitted zoning districts for a single manufactured home: AG, AP, RE, RN (With approval of a certificate of compatibility, subject to cited conditions.) · minimum roof eave and gable overhang: >= 1 foot

    “According to the Zoning Code, a single mobile home or manufactured home may be treated as a single-family residence and is allowed in the AG, AP, RE, and RN zones with approval of a certificate of compatibility.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units in Alpine County, subject to state law, County Code Chapter 18.69, applicable zoning districts, building-permit review, and utility and wastewater requirements.

    • Alpine County's Chapter 18.69 regulations do not comply with new state-law requirements, so the County is required to follow state law until the Board of Supervisors adopts a new ordinance.
    • An ADU or JADU building permit application must be submitted to the Alpine County Building Safety Division.
    • Required supporting materials include a project description; well-permit or water-supply verification; and verification from the Alpine County Health Department or community wastewater provider that adequate wastewater capacity exists.
    • For an existing primary dwelling, the County has up to 60 days after a complete application to approve the accessory unit; the application is deemed approved if not acted upon within 60 days. This deemed-approval rule does not apply to a new single-family dwelling submitted with an ADU.
    • New ADUs generally require a 4-foot rear and side setback; front setbacks are governed by Title 18, but cannot preclude an ADU of at least 800 square feet.
    • ADUs under 750 square feet are exempt from impact fees; larger ADUs are charged proportionally and may incur Kirkwood Traffic Impact Mitigation Fees and the Alpine County Fire Impact Fee.
    • Water and sewer connection fees or capacity charges generally do not apply unless the ADU is constructed at the same time as the primary dwelling.
    • Parking is one space per unit or one space per bedroom, whichever is less, may be tandem, and the parking standard does not apply within the Markleeville Historic District.
    • JADUs may not be detached and must be entirely within the existing primary dwelling.
    • Converted existing structures have no maximum size; new detached ADUs are capped at 1,200 square feet; new attached ADUs are limited to 50% of the principal dwelling's floor area or 800 square feet, whichever is more.
    • ADUs may not be used as short-term rentals and must be rented for more than 30 days.
    • ADUs are permitted in AG, AP, LP, TP, RE, RN, NC, C, INS, and qualifying PD zoning districts.

    JADU maximum size: <= 500 square feet (Must be contained entirely within a single-family dwelling.) · new detached ADU maximum size: <= 1200 square feet · new ADU rear and side setback: >= 4 feet (No setback is required for certain existing living-area or accessory-structure conversions.) · ADU impact-fee exemption threshold: < 750 square feet (Larger units are charged proportionally.) · minimum ADU rental period: > 30 days (ADUs are not permitted as short-term rentals.)

    “Accessory dwelling units are not permitted to be used as short term rentals and must be rented for more than 30 days.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units in the listed Alpine County zoning districts.
      “Accessory dwelling units shall be permitted in the following zoning districts: Agricultural (AG), Agricultural Preserve (AP), Land Preserve (LP), Timber Preserve (TP), Residential Estates (RE), Residential Neighborhood (RN), Neighborhood Commercial (NC), commercial (C), Institutional (INS), and Planned Development (PD) (for PD, areas that allow single family development, multi-family development) .”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Residential septic-system permitting and inspection in Alpine County.

    • Septic-system design must comply with the Uniform Plumbing Code and the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Lahontan Basin Plan.
    “Alpine County Health Department is responsible for permitting and inspecting the installation of residential septic systems.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction requiring installation of a new or replacement onsite wastewater treatment system in Alpine County.

    • A completed permit application including a scaled plot plan must be submitted to Environmental Health.
    • The Environmental Health Department must approve the permit application before the County Building Department may issue building permits.
    • New or replacement onsite wastewater systems are subject to Alpine County LAMP siting and design requirements.
    • A waiver of sewer connection may be considered when the stated distance, sewer-district, cost, and OWTS requirements are met.
    “A completed permit application, including a scaled plot-plan, must be submitted to EHD for any construction that requires the installation of a new, or the replacement of an existing OWTS. Only after the EHD has approved a permit application can the County’s Building Department issue any permits.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Onsite wastewater treatment systems in Alpine County, including systems serviced, repaired, or operated as alternative or supplemental systems.

    • Whenever an OWTS is serviced, a Qualified Inspector must examine the tank and submit a written report within 30 days.
    • If an inspection finds failure or reasonable potential to fail, the report must be submitted within 24 hours.
    • Alternative or supplemental OWTS require an annual inspection by a Qualified Inspector or trained manufacturer representative, with the report submitted to Environmental Health within 30 days.
    • A follow-up inspection is required after repair of a failing system.

    annual inspection interval for alternative or supplemental OWTS: 1 year · inspection report deadline: 30 days (24 hours when failure or reasonable potential to fail is found)

    “Whenever an OWTS is serviced (e.g. septic tank pumping, leach line endoscopy), a Qualified Inspector shall examine the tank to look for signs of deterioration, corrosion or evidence that the dispersal field has failed or is in the process of failing. [...] Operating permits will be required for Alternative or supplemental OWTS to ensure they are functioning properly and as designed. Permit conditions will require an annual inspection of the OWTS by a Qualified Inspector or a trained manufacturer’s representative.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Onsite wastewater sanitation used instead of public sewer in Alpine County.

    • New or replacement OWTS require Environmental Health permitting and approval.
    • Cesspools of any kind or size are not allowed or authorized.
    • OWTS discharging effluent on or above the ground surface are not allowed or authorized.
    • OWTS dedicated to receiving significant amounts of waste from RV holding tanks are not allowed or authorized.
    • New or replacement OWTS are not allowed where public sewer is available, subject to the stated waiver conditions.
    “The following conditions are not allowed or authorized in this LAMP: 1. Cesspools of any kind or size. [...] 4. OWTS that discharge effluent on or above the ground surface such as sprinklers, exposed drip lines, free-surface wetlands, or a pond. [...] 7. OWTS dedicated to receiving significant amounts of wastes dumped from RV holding tanks, or RV holding tanks that accept waste combined with preservatives (i.e., formaldehyde). [...] 9. Installation of new or replacement OWTS where a public sewer is available.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction, destruction, deepening, or repair of public and private water wells in Alpine County.

    • Well drillers must follow California Water Well Standards Bulletin 74-81 and supplements.
    • A well completion report must be submitted within 60 days of completion.

    well completion report deadline: 60 days (after well completion)

    “Permits are required for the construction, destruction, deepening, and repair of a water well. Well drillers are required to follow the California Water Well Standards, Bulletin 74-81 and supplements, developed by the California Department of Water Resources. Well completion reports are required to be submitted within 60 days of well completion.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Water and sewer utility connections or documented utility approval for building projects in specified Alpine County service areas.

    • Bear Valley projects require will-serve letters from Bear Valley Water District and Lake Alpine Water Company before building-permit issuance.
    • Kirkwood projects require documented approval from Kirkwood Meadows Public Utility District before building-permit issuance.
    • Markleeville service-area projects require will-serve letters from Markleeville Public Utility District and Markleeville Water Company before building-permit issuance.
    • The Building Official will not issue a building permit until the Health Officer has signed a statement that water and sewage systems are installed and approved.
    “a. Bear Valley: Contact Bear Valley Water District at 209-753-2112 and Lake Alpine Water Company at 209-753-2409 for application process and fees. A copy of the will serve letters must be obtained prior to the issuance of a building permit. b. Kirkwood: Contact Kirkwood Meadows Public Utility District at 209-258-4444 for application process and fees. Documented approval must be obtained prior to the issuance of a building permit. c. Markleeville: For projects located in the Markleeville service area contact Markleeville Public Utility District at 530-694-2924 and Markleeville Water Company at 530-694-2924 for application process and fees. A copy of the will serve letters must be obtained prior to the issuance of a building permit.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Land divisions in Alpine County, including tentative parcel maps for divisions of four parcels or fewer and tentative subdivision maps for divisions of five or more parcels.

    • Tentative parcel maps must comply with the California Subdivision Map Act and County Code.
    • A tentative parcel map is valid for 24 months, with a 12-month extension available if approved by the Community Development Department.
    • The final parcel map must be filed before the tentative parcel map expires.
    • A tentative parcel map involving two lots is reviewed at staff level; one involving more than two parcels requires a Planning Commission public hearing.
    • A tentative subdivision map is required for all land divisions of five or more parcels and must be submitted to the Planning Commission for a public hearing.
    • The Planning Commission recommends action to the Board of Supervisors.
    • The proposed subdivision must be consistent with the general plan, subdivision improvement standards, and any applicable specific plan, unless a design or improvement modification is granted.
    • The Board of Supervisors must impose reasonable conditions to mitigate development impacts and may impose development fees as a condition of approval; fees may be deferred until map recordation or building-permit issuance, may be paid earlier, and are charged at the rate in effect when paid.
    • Except for condominium conversion projects where no new structures are added, the subdivision design must provide, to the extent feasible, future passive or natural heating or cooling opportunities as described in the State Subdivision Map Act and county guidelines.

    tentative parcel map land-division threshold: <= 4 parcels or fewer · tentative subdivision map land-division threshold: >= 5 parcels or more · tentative parcel map validity: 24 months · tentative parcel map extension: 12 months (Requires approval by the Community Development Department.)

    “A tentative parcel map involves a land division of four parcels or less. Tentative parcel maps are required to comply with the California Subdivision Map Act and County Code. [...] A tentative subdivision map is required for all land divisions of five or more parcels.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision improvements and map processing in Alpine County.
      “No final map or parcel map shall be forwarded to the county recorder’s office until the subdivider either completes the required improvements or enters into an agreement with the county and/or utility service provider agreeing to do such work.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Driveway construction and related work within an Alpine County road right-of-way.

    • An encroachment permit is required for construction activities within the County road right-of-way.
    • The guide identifies driveway construction as a typical activity requiring the encroachment permit.
    • The requirement applies to the County road right-of-way, not necessarily to driveway work wholly outside that right-of-way.
    • The County development standards apply to driveways and supplement, but do not replace, standards in County specific plans such as the Kirkwood Specific Plan.
    “An Encroachment Permit is required for all construction activities that take place within the County road right-of-way. These activities typically include fire access/turnaround & driveway construction, utility trench excavation, and landscaping projects.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Residential units rented for overnight lodging for fewer than thirty consecutive days in Alpine County.

    • The property must be in a zone that allows residential use.
    • A county short-term-rental license is required before renting, offering to rent, or advertising the residential unit, unless an express exemption applies.
    • Only the owner of a residential unit may apply for and receive the license, and a separate license is required for each individual property.
    • Residential short-term rentals are prohibited in accessory or junior accessory dwelling units unless built prior to 2017 under Government Code 65852.2.
    • Rentals offered or used for no more than five nights per calendar year are exempt from this chapter, but applicable transient lodging taxes remain due.
    • One bedroom in an owner-occupied residence accommodating no more than three overnight guests is exempt from this chapter, but applicable transient lodging taxes remain due.
    • The rental must comply with all applicable Alpine County codes, laws, regulations, and chapter standards; licenses are revocable.

    maximum rental duration: < 30 consecutive days (The chapter defines a short-term rental as lodging for a period of less than thirty consecutive days.) · license term: 1 year (Licenses begin July 1 and conclude June 30 of the following year; applications made during the year are prorated to June 30.)

    “Residential short-term rentals may be located in any zone that allows residential use; provided, that the residential short-term rental complies with all the requirements of this chapter. [...] No person shall rent, offer to rent, or advertise for rent a residential unit to another person or persons for a short-term rental without a license approved and issued in a manner provided for by this chapter.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Residential short-term rentals in East Slope communities within Alpine County, excluding properties in commercial zoning districts.
      “The number of licensed short-term rentals within the East Slope short-term rental overlay district does not exceed thirty-five; [...] The limits of this section apply only to properties within the East Slope communities that are not within commercial zoning districts;”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    County building permit and plan-review fees for construction projects in Alpine County.

    • The plan review deposit is determined by staff at application submission.
    • The estimated plan review deposit is $1.00 per square foot up to $2,500.00, subject to Building Official determination.
    • Building permit fees are based on total valuation and the published fee table; additional fees may apply for inspections, re-inspections, plan revisions, state surcharges, utilities, fire impacts, school facilities, and location-specific impact fees.
    • Final fees are required at permit issuance after construction drawings and documentation are approved.
    • Electronic payment of an existing building permit has a separate 2.75% processing fee.

    plan review deposit: per 1 USD per square foot (up to $2,500.00; subject to Building Official determination) · building permit fee for valuation $1.00-$2,500.00: 226 USD · CBSC surcharge: per 4 USD per $100,000 valuation (not less than $1) · electronic payment processing fee: 2.75 percent

    “The estimated plan review deposit for a project is $1.00 per square foot up to $2500.00 *Subject to Building Official determination.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building permit applications in Alpine County.

    • Applications must be submitted through the online portal.
    • The applicant must provide all information pertinent to the proposed construction project.
    • The applicant is responsible for routing plans to applicable agencies, obtaining approvals and sign-offs, and paying fees.
    • Plans must be complete, dimensioned, drawn to scale, submitted as PDF, and signed by the responsible preparer or licensed design professional.
    • Plan review is subject to expiration 180 days after submission unless extended in writing.
    • Building permits will not be issued until required agency approvals and fees are obtained or paid.

    plan review expiration: 180 days (extension may be granted upon written request)

    “Applications must be submitted through the online portal on the Community Development web page. All information pertinent to a proposed construction project should be provided to the Building Division when applying for a permit.”

California rules that apply here

  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Occupancy of a structure marketed or described as a tiny home in California.

    • The tiny home must comply with applicable standards and be approved as a HUD-Code manufactured home, California Residential or Building Code home, factory-built housing, recreational vehicle, park trailer, or camping cabin.
    • The location must be approved for the applicable classification.
    • A tiny home that does not fit one of those classifications and does not comply with the California Building Standards Code is a noncomplying structure whose occupancy is illegal.
    • Approving and enforcing agencies vary depending on whether the unit is inside or outside a mobilehome or special occupancy park.

    park trailer or RV gross area limit: <= 400 square feet (Applicable classification-specific exclusions and standards apply.)

    “In order to be occupied, a tiny home must comply with the standards of, and be approved as one of the following types of structures: a HUD-Code manufactured home (MH), California Residential Code or California Building Code home, factory-built housing (FBH), recreational vehicle (RV), park trailer (PT) or camping cabin (CC).”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Occupancy and use of manufactured homes and mobilehomes in California mobilehome parks and other locations subject to HCD jurisdiction.

    • HCD administers titling and registration for manufactured homes and mobilehomes.
    • HCD-inspected mobilehome parks are subject to health and safety enforcement where local government has not assumed enforcement.
    • Manufactured/mobilehome park regulations address construction, use, maintenance, and occupancy.
    • Separate local land-use, building, fire, health, and utility requirements may apply.
    “MHs may be occupied outside or inside of mobilehome parks and installation and approval for occupancy is governed by the Mobilehome Parks Act (MPA), HSC Sections 18200, et seq., and Title 25, CCR Sections 1000, et seq.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy and use of recreational vehicles in California special occupancy parks and designated RV sections of mobilehome parks.
      “Unless otherwise allowed by a local ordinance, RVs generally may be occupied only in mobilehome parks or special occupancy parks governed by the Mobilehome Parks Act”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    California county legislative bodies' authority to adopt zoning ordinances regulating buildings, structures, land uses, lots, yards, open space, lot coverage, intensity of use, parking, loading, and setbacks within county jurisdiction, including unincorporated areas.

    • The authority is exercised pursuant to Government Code Chapter 4, Zoning Regulations.
    • The statute separately authorizes city legislative bodies; incorporated municipalities may exercise their own zoning authority.
    • Government Code Section 65850 also lists authority to regulate signs and billboards, building and structure location, height, bulk, number of stories, and size, lot and open-space size and use, lot coverage, intensity of land use, offstreet parking and loading, and building setback lines.
    • The cited section states it was amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 376, Sec. 1, effective January 1, 2018.
    “The legislative body of any county or city may, pursuant to this chapter, adopt ordinances that do any of the following:”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    California counties administering and enforcing state building standards through county building departments, including residential construction in unincorporated areas.

    • Each county must maintain building standards and state building regulations in the office of the building official responsible for administration and enforcement of state building standards.
    • The statewide Title 24 standards apply subject to statutory exceptions and any authorized local amendments or local requirements.
    • The cited HCD bulletin concerns the 2019 California Building Standards Code and its July 1, 2021 supplement; later code editions may supersede those particular edition dates.
    “These codes shall be maintained in the office of the building official responsible for the administration and enforcement of state building standards”

Still unanswered

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

  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in unincorporated Alpine County.
  • Agricultural exemption — Potential agricultural exemptions from Alpine County land-use, building, or development requirements.
  • Building in a floodplain — Development in flood hazard areas in Alpine 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 Alpine County, California

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

Alpine County scores 31/100 on the Bolthole Index, a weak county profile. Its strengths: about 26,585 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: limited workable ground: 8.2% at 15% slope or less and 0.4% without a severe conventional-septic limitation and elevated current hazard exposure.

Do you need a building permit in Alpine County, California?

Alpine County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Alpine County Health Department, Environmental Health Division. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. 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 Alpine County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Alpine County is allowed on a temporary basis only: Living or sleeping in a recreational vehicle on private property or in a camping area in Alpine County. Occupancy is allowed within an approved and authorized public or private recreational trailer park or camping area equipped and operated for that use. Temporary use and occupancy on a private site owned by the user, or with written consent of the site owner, may not exceed 16 days in any calendar year unless extended by Planning Commission approval of an occupancy permit. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Alpine County, California?

Land in Alpine County runs about $4,950 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Alpine County?

Alpine County gets about 36" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 37.2% of years.

How remote is Alpine County?

A typical private-land location has about 26,585 people within 15 miles and 3,015,968 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Alpine compares in California

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