Bolthole Index

Calaveras County, California

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Calaveras County, California

51Index Score / 100
#12 of 58 in California

Unincorporated Calaveras County, California requires a building permit for a new home1. County zoning applies throughout the unincorporated area, and the county Environmental Management Agency handles septic permits and inspections23. The Building Department, Planning Department and Environmental Management Agency each handle part of the approval process456.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for new dwelling construction, issued by the Calaveras County Building Department14
Zoning
County Zoning Code applies to land, uses, structures and development in unincorporated areas25
Septic permits
County-issued OWTS permits through the Environmental Management Agency; required before a dwelling building permit is issued36
RV / tiny home living
Private-property RV camping is limited to 14 continuous days or 30 cumulative days per calendar year7
Owner-builder
Available under state law and the county's own Owner-Builder process, including Limited Density Owner-Built Rural Dwellings8
Well permits
Required from the county before drilling a new well or working on an existing one9
Building code
County-enforced California Building Code; the 2025 state code applies to applications on or after 2026-01-011011
Septic soil difficulty
Only 0.3% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field12

Who to call

Building permits

Calaveras County Building Department

Building permits, plan review, inspections and code compliance for unincorporated Calaveras County; contact is the Chief Building Official

(209) 754-6390

891 Mountain Ranch Road, Building E, San Andreas, CA 95249

Online permits →

Septic permits

Calaveras County Environmental Management Agency - On-Site Wastewater

Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS/septic) permits, site evaluations and inspections for Calaveras County; the same Environmental Health division also runs the county's well-permitting program; contact is the Environmental Health Director

(209) 754-6399

891 Mountain Ranch Road, Building E, San Andreas, CA 95249

Planning & zoning

Calaveras County Planning Department

Zoning Code administration, flood plain administration, general plan updates, and zone changes, variances, subdivisions, parcel maps and use permits for unincorporated Calaveras County

(209) 754-6394

891 Mountain Ranch Road, Building E, San Andreas, CA 95249

Floodplain permits

Calaveras County Department of Public Works

Permits and Inspections, including grading permits required for development within FEMA-mapped flood plains, and road-related permitting for unincorporated Calaveras County; contact is the Public Works Director

(209) 754-6401

891 Mountain Ranch Road, Building D, San Andreas, CA 95249

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 7, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Calaveras 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 Calaveras County, California?

Yes. Calaveras County lists building permits for limited-density rural dwellings, manufactured dwellings, single- and two-family homes, agricultural buildings, additions, remodels and other building work1. The published fee schedule effective August 8, 2026 lists a $5,701 base fee for a single- or two-family dwelling; plan-check fees are due at submittal, and other departmental fees may apply1. Calaveras County has adopted the California Building Code for construction administered by its Building Department10. The 2025 California Building Standards Code applies to permit applications dated on or after January 1, 202611. A qualifying owner-builder may act as the responsible party on the county permit, but must sign the applicable declaration and comply with laws governing owner-builders and employers8.

Who is the Calaveras County building department, and how do you reach them?

Calaveras County's Building Department is at 891 Mountain Ranch Road, Building E, San Andreas, CA 95249, phone (209) 754-63904. Its online portal lets applicants submit applications, upload plans, track permit status and manage projects134. Plans may be submitted digitally or on paper; listed projects eligible for a digital or single plan set include residential additions of 1,000 square feet or less13. Inspection requests may go through the permit portal, online form or inspection line14. E-Inspect is limited to qualifying licensed contractors and eligible inspections; it requires the county form and clear photographs, and a rejected submission may require a field inspection144. For projects subject to county grading or construction-waste rules, specified completion, fee and waste-log conditions must be cleared before finalization or a Certificate of Occupancy; we could not confirm that every project needs that certificate15.

Does Calaveras County have zoning?

Yes. Calaveras County's Zoning Code governs land, uses, structures and development throughout the unincorporated county2. The Official Zoning Map identifies each parcel's district, and minimum parcel size can be encoded in the zoning designation; the General Plan controls if it conflicts with the Zoning Code1617. Dimensional standards vary by district: resource zones generally use a 30-foot property-line or 60-foot road-centerline front and street-side setback, whichever is greater, while residential districts generally use 20 feet from the property line or 50 feet from centerline18. Maximum height is 35 feet in RR, R1 and R2 districts and 45 feet in R3, subject to code exceptions19. Subdivisions are regulated under the General Plan, zoning and the County Subdivision Ordinance20. Ask the Planning Department to confirm the parcel's zoning, minimum size, overlays and special-plan standards before designing5.

How do septic permits work in Calaveras County?

Calaveras County's On-Site Wastewater Department handles OWTS permits, profile-hole review, plan approval and construction inspections36. An installation permit is required before construction; standard systems need satisfactory site and soil conditions, while unsuitable soils require a qualified professional to design an engineered system for county plan check21. The stated fees are $760 for a standard installation permit, $823 for an engineered installation permit and $253 for engineered plan check21. County staff verify construction at open-trench and final inspections, and the completed system must receive final inspection before use22. This provides a legal off-grid sanitation path, but approval depends on the parcel's site and soil conditions23. Only 0.3% of county soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so investigate septic feasibility before fixing the house location12.

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

Outside a designated camping area in unincorporated Calaveras County, a property owner may camp in an RV or other shelter for up to 14 continuous days or 30 cumulative days in a calendar year7. The county's current materials do not expressly classify a tiny home for occupancy, so ask the Planning Department how the proposed unit and parcel would be treated5. A manufactured home installed on the required foundation can qualify as a detached single-unit dwelling in a district where that use is permitted or conditionally permitted24. In the Rancho Calaveras Special Plan area, a manufactured home is allowed where a conventional house is permitted, except in historical districts, and must meet the stated HUD construction standard25. Qualifying unincorporated lots may add ADUs through the building-permit process, subject to zoning, water, wastewater, fire and building requirements26.

How do you build a home in Calaveras County, step by step?

  1. Ask the Planning Department to confirm the parcel's zoning, allowed residential use, minimum parcel size, setbacks and overlays517.
  2. If the parcel borders an available Calaveras County Water District line and capacity is available, budget for the connection; a line extension instead requires concept review27.
  3. For a private well, apply through the county before drilling or covered well work and include the proposed placement on a plot plan9.
  4. For septic, obtain profile-hole and plan approval, then the OWTS installation permit before construction21.
  5. Submit plans and the building-permit application to the Building Department, using the online portal where available134.
  6. Schedule building inspections and the required OWTS open-trench and final inspections1422.
  7. Complete applicable grading and waste-documentation conditions before project finalization or issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy15.

What should you check before buying land in Calaveras County?

Only 0.3% of Calaveras County land is free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so establish septic feasibility before committing to a house site12. Just 18.4% of the county has a slope of 15% or less, 70.4% is wooded, and severe drought occurs in 36.8% of years; investigate buildable area, water supply, fire access and defensible space parcel by parcel282930. A county permit is required before developing a new well or performing covered work on one9. A parcel contiguous to an available Calaveras County Water District line may connect when capacity is available, while other parcels may need a line extension27. Floodplain grading in unincorporated Calaveras County requires a Public Works grading permit despite ordinary grading exemptions31. New construction in a designated special flood hazard area must be outside the hazard area or meet county flood standards; residences must be two feet above base flood elevation and nonresidential structures require floodproofing32. The county uses its Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance to evaluate whether and how new development may be located in a flood hazard zone, but we could not confirm a separate floodplain-development application33.

Watch-outs

  • Private-property RV camping outside a designated camping area in unincorporated Calaveras County is limited to 14 continuous days or 30 cumulative days in a calendar year7.
  • Only 0.3% of Calaveras County's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, and an OWTS installation permit requires profile-hole and plan approval, so test septic feasibility before finalizing a house site1221.

Sources

  1. Calaveras County Building Department Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  2. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  3. Procedures For Obtaining An Onsite Sewage Disposal System, quoted and re-checked
  4. Calaveras County Building Department (building.calaverasgov.us)
  5. Calaveras County Planning Department (planning.calaverasgov.us)
  6. Calaveras County Environmental Management Agency - On-Site Wastewater (ema.calaverasgov.us)
  7. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  8. Calaveras County Building Department - Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  9. Well Program, quoted and re-checked
  10. publicworks.calaverasgov.us, quoted and re-checked
  11. Approved Building Standards (California statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. 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
  13. Calaveras County Building Department FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  14. Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  15. Grading and Drainage Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  16. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  17. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  18. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  19. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  20. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  21. Procedures For Obtaining An Onsite Sewage Disposal System, quoted and re-checked
  22. Procedures For Obtaining An Onsite Sewage Disposal System, quoted and re-checked
  23. Procedures For Obtaining An Onsite Sewage Disposal System, quoted and re-checked
  24. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  25. Rancho Calaveras Special Plan, quoted and re-checked
  26. Calaveras County Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  27. New Connections, quoted and re-checked
  28. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Calaveras County Code Title 15, Chapter 15.05 Grading and Drainage Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  32. Calaveras County General Plan Safety Element, quoted and re-checked
  33. Calaveras County General Plan Safety Element, quoted and re-checked

Written October 7, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Calaveras County has countywide zoning.

RuleCalaveras CountyAmador CountySan Joaquin CountySacramento CountyTuolumne CountyStanislaus CountyEl Dorado County
Building permitRequiredLimitedRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Env. Management AgencyCounty Env. Health Dept.County Env. Health Dept.EMDCounty Env. Health Div.County Dept. of Env. ResourcesCounty Env. Management Dept.

County locator

Calaveras County in California

51
County map
Calaveras County highlighted among the California counties · colored by Index score

How Calaveras County scores

Seclusion52100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency55100% ev.
Admin Boringness41100% ev.
Durability26100% ev.
Property Autonomy56100% ev.
Carry Cost67100% 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 →

$443kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$4,909Land / acre
35.1"Annual rain
36.8% of yrsSevere drought
26.1 / yr (+16.4)Mid-century 100°F days
75.8 daysMid-century dry spell
2.06" (+4.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.09×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,235Home insurance / yr
8.3% / yrInsurance growth
4.53%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
5,177People within 30 min
1,707,252People within 2 hr
42,836Radius comparison (15 mi)
45.7People / sq mi
20.6%Federal land
18.4%Land at 15% slope or less
0.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
1,964 acWorkable land screen
70.4%Wooded land
54.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Calaveras County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

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Answers from the rulebook for Calaveras County

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

Calaveras County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, improvement, demolition, or repair of buildings or structures subject to the Calaveras County Building Department's permit process.

    • A permit is a condition precedent to the covered construction, alteration, improvement, demolition, or repair work.
    • The applicant must file a signed statement establishing California contractor licensure or the basis for an applicable exemption.
    • The County fee schedule lists separate permit categories including agriculture buildings, limited-density rural dwellings, manufactured dwellings, single/two-family dwellings, accessory structures, additions, remodels, commercial buildings, and grading-related permits.
    • Requirements may differ for incorporated municipalities or projects administered by another authority.

    agriculture building permit base fee: 928 USD (Fee schedule effective August 8, 2026) · limited density rural dwelling permit base fee: 4503 USD (Fee schedule effective August 8, 2026) · permit commencement deadline: 365 days (Every permit expires if work is not commenced within 365 days from permit date)

    “Permit Type | Base Fee* | Due at Submittal* | School | Fire Agriculture Building | $928.00 | N/A | No | No Limited Density Rural Dwelling | $4,503.00 | $2,251.50 | Yes | Yes Manufactured Dwelling | $1,627.00 | $813.50 | Yes | Yes Single/Two Family Dwelling | $5,701.00 | $2,850.50 | Yes | Yes”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New dwelling construction in Calaveras County, including limited-density rural dwellings and single/two-family dwellings.
      “Note: A new dwelling permit will not be issued by the Building Department until an OWTS permit is issued. A foundation inspection cannot be done until the open trench inspection is approved.”
    • Required — County building-permit categories including agriculture buildings, limited-density rural dwellings, manufactured dwellings, single- and two-family dwellings, multifamily dwellings, accessory structures, additions, remodels, commercial buildings, and other listed building work.
      “Permit Type | Base Fee* | Due at Submittal* | School | Fire Agriculture Building | $928.00 | N/A | No | No Limited Density Rural Dwelling | $4,503.00 | $2,251.50 | Yes | Yes Manufactured Dwelling | $1,627.00 | $813.50 | Yes | Yes Single/Two Family Dwelling | $5,701.00 | $2,850.50 | Yes | Yes”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Applicants for County building permits who qualify for an owner-builder exemption from California Contractor’s State License Law.

    • The owner may perform the work personally or through employees paid wages as sole compensation, provided none of the structures or appurtenances is intended or offered for sale.
    • If contracting with licensed contractors or subcontractors, the owner may not construct more than four single-family residential structures intended or offered for sale within a calendar year, unless contracting with a general contractor.
    • A homeowner improving a principal residence or appurtenances must perform the work before sale, must have resided in the residence for the 12 months before completion, and may not have used the exemption on more than two structures more than once during any three-year period.
    • The owner-builder is the legally and financially responsible party on the permit and must comply with applicable laws governing owner-builders and employers.
    • If the owner employs non-licensed contractors or other persons and the total construction value is at least $500 including labor and materials, the owner may be considered an employer and must comply with state and federal requirements.
    • The permit application requires the applicant to sign the applicable declaration and provides that violations of Business and Professions Code section 7031.5 may result in a civil penalty of not more than $500.

    single-family structures offered for sale: <= 4 structures per calendar year (The limitation does not apply if the owner contracts with a general contractor.) · principal-residence occupancy before completion: >= 12 months (Work must be performed prior to sale.) · non-licensed labor threshold: >= 500 USD (Includes labor and materials.) · owner-builder exemption use: <= 2 structures (Not more than two structures more than once during any three-year period.)

    “OWNER-BUILDER DECLARATION – I hereby affirm that I am exempt from the Contractor’s State License Law for one of the following reasons:”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    County-administered building-code enforcement and construction subject to the Calaveras County Building Department.

    • The official County Public Works document refers to the currently County adopted California Building Code.
    • The referenced engineered building must be permitted by the Calaveras County Building Department.
    • The County Building Department FAQ references the 2022 California Building Code for submittal deferrals.
    • Deferred submittals require prior approval of the building official; sprinkler-system type must be indicated on the cover sheet before issuance, and solar-system size and type must be indicated on the cover sheet before issuance.

    referenced CBC edition: 2022 (The Public Works document does not state an edition.)

    “The engineered building shall be in accordance with the currently County adopted California Building Code.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Inspections associated with Calaveras County building permits, including eligible residential, utility, reroof, solar, HVAC, generator, sewer, and water-service work.

    • Inspection requests are submitted through the County online permit portal, online inspection form, or inspection request line.
    • Qualifying licensed contractors may complete certain eligible inspections remotely through E-Inspect.
    • The remote program requires the appropriate active California specialty license.
    • Incomplete forms, missing photographs, poor image quality, or submissions from improperly licensed individuals may be rejected and may require a standard field inspection.
    • Inspection timing depends on request time and inspector routing; requests before 3:00 PM are typically scheduled for the next business day.

    inspection request cutoff: 3:00 PM (Requests after 3:00 PM are typically scheduled for the following business day) · inspection request line: (209) 754-6390 ext. 3

    “Inspection requests received before 3:00 PM will typically be scheduled for the next business day.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Certain Calaveras County building-permit inspections eligible for the county's E-Inspect Program.
      “The County of Calaveras Building Department offers qualifying licensed contractors the ability to complete certain inspections remotely through the E-Inspect Program. This program is only available to contractors holding the appropriate active California specialty license for the work being performed. Eligible permits may be finalized by submitting the required E-Inspection Compliance and Certification Form together with clear photographic documentation.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Permitted structures subject to the County grading and drainage ordinance or County construction waste-management requirements.

    • For a permitted structure subject to the grading ordinance, the Director must issue a Notice of Completion before a certificate of occupancy may issue.
    • The owner may be required to post approved security sufficient to ensure satisfactory completion of ancillary work.
    • No Notice of Completion, Certificate of Occupancy, or other development permit may be issued on a parcel with an outstanding balance of grading fees.
    • For County construction and demolition waste requirements, the Waste Log and associated weight or volume tickets must be submitted, reviewed, and approved before finalization or issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.

    grading fee balance: zero outstanding balance

    “No certificate of occupancy shall be issued for a permitted structure until the Director has issued a “Notice of Completion” pursuant to this section.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning regulation in the unincorporated portion of Calaveras County.

    • The Zoning Code is adopted pursuant to California Government Code Section 65850.
    • The code provides standards for orderly growth and development and guides and controls land use consistent with the General Plan.
    • The stated objective includes classifying and ensuring adequate development potential for real property in the unincorporated portion of the County.
    “This Zoning Code shall apply, to the extent permitted by law, to all property within the unincorporated areas of Calaveras County”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land, uses, structures, and development in the unincorporated areas of Calaveras County.

    • The Zoning Code applies to all property within the unincorporated areas of Calaveras County to the extent permitted by law.
    • Governmental agencies are exempt only to the extent their property may not be lawfully regulated by Calaveras County.
    • Land use and structures must comply with the Zoning Code and any permit issued under it.
    • County officials or bodies may impose more stringent requirements where the Code gives them discretion.
    • Other applicable County, State, and federal regulations remain applicable; where conflicting County regulations apply, the more restrictive provisions control unless otherwise specified.
    • The current Zoning Code was adopted July 16, 2024 and the County Planning Department states it became effective August 15, 2024.
    “This Zoning Code shall apply, to the extent permitted by law, to all property within the unincorporated areas of Calaveras County, including all uses, structures, and land owned by any private person, firm, corporation or organization, or Calaveras County or other local, State or federal agencies.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    The County's Title 17 zoning districts and overlays governing land use in the unincorporated portion of Calaveras County.

    • The zoning code lists agriculture, residential, and other base and overlay zones.
    • Numerical designators may denote maximum density or minimum parcel size.
    • Specific permitted, administrative, conditional, or temporary uses vary by zoning district and additional regulations.
    “A1 General Agriculture Zone AP Agriculture Preserve Zone RA Residential Agriculture Zone Residential Zones* RR Rural Residential Zone R1 Single-Family Residential Zone R2 Two-Family Residential Zone R3 Multiple-Family Residential Zone * Where provided, numerical designators denote the maximum density allowed or minimum parcel size required.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Minimum parcel sizes for property within the unincorporated areas of Calaveras County under the current Title 17 Zoning Code.

    • The zoning code applies to property within the unincorporated areas of Calaveras County.
    • Minimum parcel size is subject to compliance with the General Plan; where the General Plan conflicts with the Zoning Code, the General Plan controls.
    • A parcel-specific minimum may be designated by a number hyphenated from the zoning district: numbers of 999 or less indicate acres, and numbers greater than 999 indicate square feet.
    • For lots with slopes of 50% or more, Section 17.16.050 applies.
    • The current Zoning Code supersedes prior ordinances codified in Title 17 and amendments, subject to the stated provisions for previously approved projects and applications in process.

    parcel-specific minimum-size encoding: A number hyphenated from the zoning district; 999 or less means acres and greater than 999 means square feet · slope threshold: >= 50 percent (See Section 17.16.050, Slopes 50 Percent or More)

    “Minimum Parcel Size Subject to compliance with the General Plan, or as designated for a specific parcel by a number hyphenated from the zoning district where a number of 999 or less indicates a minimum parcel size in acres and a number greater than 999 indicates a minimum parcel size in square feet. For lots with slopes of 50% or more, see Section 17.16.050, Slopes 50 Percent or More”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Buildings in unincorporated Calaveras County resource and residential zoning districts.

    • The standards are measured from the property line unless otherwise stated.
    • Construction must also meet Defensible Space, State Responsibility Area fire regulations, Title 15, and other applicable fire-safety requirements.
    • Visibility-at-intersections and driveways rules also apply.
    • Additional district, overlay, specific-plan, agricultural-buffer, stream/wetland, and fire-safety requirements may apply.

    resource-zone front and street-side setback: 30 feet from property line or 60 feet from road right-of-way/easement centerline, whichever results in the greater setback feet · resource-zone interior side and rear setback: >= 30 feet · residential-zone front and street-side setback: 20 feet from property line or 50 feet from road right-of-way/easement centerline, whichever results in the greater setback feet · residential-zone interior side setback: 10 feet in RR and R3; 5 feet in R1 and R2 feet · residential-zone rear setback: >= 20 feet

    “Front 20 from property line or 50 from centerline of the road right-of-way or easement, whichever results in a greater setback”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Buildings in unincorporated Calaveras County resource and residential zoning districts.

    • Resource-zone standards provide no maximum for agricultural buildings.
    • Height exceptions are governed by Section 17.16.090 and other Title 17 limitations.
    • Building height is measured from average base elevation to the highest point on the roof.
    • Additional overlay, specific-plan, fire, and airport limitations may apply.

    resource-zone maximum building height: <= 35 feet (no maximum for agricultural buildings) · RR/R1/R2 maximum building height: <= 35 feet (subject to Section 17.16.090 height exceptions) · R3 maximum building height: <= 45 feet (subject to Section 17.16.090 height exceptions)

    “Maximum Building Height (ft) 35 35 35 45 See Section 17.16.090, Height Exceptions”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Buildings in Calaveras County residential zoning districts RR, R1, R2, and R3 in the unincorporated county.
      “Antennae, chimneys, poles, silos, stair towers, roof top mechanical equipment and associated screening, and safety devices may exceed the maximum permitted height for the Zoning District in which they are located, subject to limitations within the Airport Overflight Overlay Zone and other limitations within this Title. Stair towers and mechanical equipment shall not exceed the maximum permitted height for the Zoning District in which they are located by more than 10 feet.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Camping by a property owner on private property in a recreation vehicle or other shelter or means.

    • The continuous period may not exceed 14 days.
    • The cumulative period may not exceed 30 days in one calendar year.

    continuous camping period: <= 14 days · cumulative camping period: <= 30 days per calendar year

    “A property owner is allowed to camp on their private property either in a recreation vehicle or other shelter or means for a continuous period of up to 14 days or a cumulative period not to exceed 30 days in one calendar year.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Use of a single recreational vehicle, mobile home, or travel trailer as a temporary residence on property subject to the Calaveras County Zoning Code.
      “A single-wide mobile home, recreation vehicle or travel trailer with a current, valid registration and license may be permitted as a residence where there is a Building Permit issued for a permanent residence on the same parcel, subject to the following standards.”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — A property owner camping on private property in an RV or other shelter outside a designated camping area in unincorporated Calaveras County.
      “17.25.080 Camping on Private Property A. Camping on Private Property Outside of Designated Camping Areas. A property owner is allowed to camp on their private property either in a recreation vehicle or other shelter or means for a continuous period of up to 14 days or a cumulative period not to exceed 30 days in one calendar year.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping by a property owner on private property outside designated camping areas in unincorporated Calaveras County.

    • Camping is allowed in a recreation vehicle or other shelter or means.
    • The use may continue for up to 14 consecutive days or no more than 30 cumulative days in one calendar year.

    maximum continuous period: <= 14 days · maximum cumulative period: <= 30 days per calendar year

    “A property owner is allowed to camp on their private property either in a recreation vehicle or other shelter or means for a continuous period of up to 14 days or a cumulative period not to exceed 30 days in one calendar year.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A tiny home used as a detached single-unit dwelling in an unincorporated Calaveras County zoning district.

    • The tiny home must qualify as a detached single-unit dwelling or another substantially similar use under the County Zoning Code.
    • Detached single-unit dwellings are shown as permitted in the RR, R1, R2, and R3 residential zones, subject to applicable zoning and building requirements.
    • Uses not listed or not substantially similar to an allowed use are prohibited.
    • Environmental Health requirements for sewage disposal and water service apply.
    • Incorporated municipalities may have separate land-use rules.
    “In cases where a specific land use or activity is not defined, the Planning Director shall assign [...] Single-Unit Dwelling, Detached P P P P”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Individual manufactured housing units installed on a foundation system and regulated as detached single-unit dwellings in applicable Calaveras County zoning districts.

    • The manufactured housing unit must be installed on a foundation system pursuant to California Health and Safety Code section 18551.
    • The parcel must be in a zoning district where detached single-unit dwellings are permitted or conditionally permitted.
    • Applicable building, state, and county requirements remain applicable.
    “Single-Unit Dwelling, Detached. A dwelling unit that is designed for occupancy by one household with private yards on all sides and located on a separate lot from any other unit (except an accessory dwelling unit, where permitted). This subclassification includes individual manufactured housing units installed on a foundation system pursuant to Section 18551 of the California Health and Safety Code.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Manufactured-home occupancy in the Rancho Calaveras Special Plan area.
      “Current policy allows a Manufactured Home any place a conventional house is otherwise permitted, except within historical districts. When manufactured homes are permitted, they must meet the 1976 Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) nationally standardized construction standards.”
    • Limited — Manufactured-home occupancy in unincorporated Calaveras County, including manufactured homes on permanent foundations and mobile-home park sites.
      “The County’s policy is to treat manufactured homes in the same manner as other single-family residences, provided it is placed on a permanent foundation.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units on lots governed by Calaveras County Title 17 zoning regulations, including lots with existing or proposed single-unit or multi-unit dwellings in the County zoning jurisdiction.

    • Accessory dwelling units must comply with all provisions of the base, overlay, or specific plan zone except as modified by Section 17.25.040.
    • For existing or proposed single-unit dwellings, one detached ADU or one ADU within the existing or proposed space of the dwelling, plus one junior ADU within the existing or proposed space, is permitted.
    • For existing multi-unit dwellings, two detached ADUs and up to 25 percent of the units within a multi-unit structure, with a minimum of one ADU, may be constructed within portions not used as livable space.
    • A lot must be zoned to allow single-unit or multi-unit dwellings and contain an existing dwelling when the ADU building permit is submitted, unless the ADU permit is made in conjunction with development of the primary dwelling.
    • The maximum floor area for attached or detached ADUs is 1,200 square feet.
    • ADUs must meet applicable zoning setbacks, with minimum four-foot interior side and rear setbacks; an ADU above a garage requires no more than five feet from interior lot lines.
    • An ADU within an existing or proposed structure must be contained within the permitted floor area, except that up to 150 square feet of expansion is allowed for ingress and egress; independent exterior access is required and interior setbacks must be sufficient for fire safety.
    • A junior ADU is limited to 500 square feet, requires an efficiency kitchen, and requires owner occupancy of either the remaining portion of the structure or the junior ADU.
    • No setback is required for specified legal existing structures converted to an ADU, and replacement parking is not required when covered or enclosed primary-dwelling parking is converted or demolished in conjunction with the ADU.
    • Automobile parking is not required for an ADU, but required parking for the primary dwelling must be provided under Chapter 17.22.
    • Applicable building-code, environmental-health domestic-water and onsite-wastewater, and fire-protection requirements must be met.
    • Separate sale or conveyance from the primary residence is prohibited except as allowed by Government Code Section 65852.2; rentals must be at least 30 consecutive days, and transient occupancy for paying guests staying fewer than 30 days is prohibited.
    • A compliant application must be approved ministerially through the Building Permit process; a complete application on a parcel with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family dwelling must be approved or denied within 60 days, subject to applicant-requested delay.
    • The County planning page states that ADUs are built to the same building standards as the primary residence unless the ADU is a Limited Density Owner-Built Rural Dwelling.
    • This claim concerns the County Title 17 zoning jurisdiction; incorporated municipalities may administer separate local zoning rules.

    maximum floor area: 1200 square feet (attached or detached ADU) · minimum interior side setback: >= 4 feet · minimum interior rear setback: >= 4 feet · maximum setback from interior lot lines for ADU above garage: <= 5 feet · maximum expansion for ADU within existing or proposed structure: <= 150 square feet (for ingress and egress) · maximum junior ADU floor area: <= 500 square feet · minimum rental term: >= 30 consecutive days (transient occupancy by paying guests for fewer than 30 days is prohibited) · ministerial permit review period: <= 60 days (after the Building Permit application is deemed complete; applicant may request a delay)

    “Accessory dwelling units shall comply with all provisions of the base, overlay, or specific plan zone, except as modified by this Section.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units on lots in unincorporated Calaveras County zoned to allow single-unit or multi-unit dwellings.
      “Rental terms shall be a minimum of 30 consecutive days.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Onsite wastewater treatment systems in Calaveras County

    • The cited procedure identifies the Calaveras County Onsite Wastewater Department as the permitting department.
    • The procedure includes standard and engineered OWTS pathways and site/soil review requirements.
    “Before any construction on the OWTS is started, an installation permit shall be obtained from the Calaveras County Onsite Wastewater Department”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction of a standard or engineered OWTS in Calaveras County.

    • A standard OWTS installation permit is issued if all site and soil conditions are satisfactory.
    • If soils are unsuitable for a standard OWTS, a qualified professional must design the OWTS and submit three design copies for plan check.
    • The installation permit must be obtained before OWTS construction starts.
    • A new dwelling permit will not be issued until an OWTS permit is issued.
    • The permit is valid for one year from issuance; the owner has one year from plan approval to obtain issuance.
    • The standard-system fee stated in the procedure is $760.00.
    • The engineered-system plan-check fee stated in the procedure is $253.00 and the engineered installation-permit fee is $823.00.

    standard installation permit fee: 760 USD · engineered OWTS plan check fee: 253 USD · engineered installation permit fee: 823 USD · permit validity from issuance: 1 year · time from approval to permit issuance: 1 year

    “Standard OWTS – If all site and soil conditions are satisfactory, then an installation permit shall be issued for a $760.00 fee. [...] Engineered OWTS – If soils are not suitable for a standard OWTS, then a qualified professional shall be hired to design an OWTS. Three copies of the design shall be submitted to the OSWW Department with a $253.00 plan check fee. After a satisfactory plan check is completed, an installation permit can be issued for a $823.00 fee.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    OWTS construction in Calaveras County.

    • The inspection card and approved plans must remain posted until final inspection and final approval.
    • All required inspections must be scheduled 24 hours in advance.
    • County staff perform construction verification at open-trench and final inspections.
    • The tank must be in place and specified materials must be onsite for open-trench inspection.
    • Final inspection and observation occur after OWTS completion and before use.
    • Engineered systems require qualified-professional observation at specified construction stages, including layout, open trench/bed, applicable mechanical/electrical performance, applicable uniform-distribution test, and final completion.

    inspection scheduling notice: 24 hours

    “Department staff shall perform construction verification at open trench inspection and at final inspection. [...] Final inspections and observations shall be performed following OWTS completion and prior to use.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Onsite/off-grid sewage disposal through an OWTS in Calaveras County.

    • An OWTS installation permit is required before construction.
    • Approval depends on site and soil conditions; unsuitable soils require engineered design by a qualified professional.
    • County open-trench and final inspections are required, and final inspection must occur before use.
    • The source establishes a county permitting pathway for onsite disposal but does not establish that every parcel is eligible.
    “Following the profile hole inspection, county staff will approve or deny the plan based on the soil findings.”
  • Well permitRequired

    New wells and work on wells within Calaveras County boundaries

    • The permit process applies before development of a new well or when work on a well is performed within county boundaries.
    • Permits are valid for one year from issuance.
    • A plot plan showing the proposed well placement must be submitted with the permit application.
    • The County performs three inspections over the life of the permit: initial site visit, annular seal, and final inspection.
    • The program covers water and agricultural wells, cathodic protection wells, industrial wells, geothermal heat-exchange wells, monitoring and observation wells, test wells and holes, and exploration holes.

    well permit validity: 1 year from issuance · required inspections: 3 inspections (Initial site visit, annular seal, and final inspection.)

    “The ordinance established a permitting process wherein a permit must be obtained from the Department before the development of a new well, or when "work on a well" is to be performed within County boundaries.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Development of a new well and work on a well within Calaveras County, including construction, reconstruction, modification, abandonment, and destruction of covered well types.
      “The ordinance established a permitting process wherein a permit must be obtained from the Department before the development of a new well, or when "work on a well" is to be performed within County boundaries.”
    • Required — Development of a new well or work on a well within Calaveras County boundaries
      “The ordinance established a permitting process wherein a permit must be obtained from the Department before the development of a new well, or when "work on a well" is to be performed within County boundaries.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Water and/or wastewater service connections within the Calaveras County Water District service area

    • Properties may or may not already have a service connection, and a District line may need to be extended.
    • For properties contiguous to a District water and/or wastewater line, connection payment is required when capacity is available.
    • Activation requires payment of required fees, applicable lot information, and a Utility Service Request.
    • Required supporting documents include an approved county plot/site plan, county building permit and/or onsite sewage-disposal permit, and any applicable fire-sprinkler approval, pumping-system data sheet, ADU permit, easements, and service quotation.
    • A District line extension requires a Concept Review Application.
    • Customers are responsible for service from the meter or property-line cleanout to the building, and the District inspects work to the property line, meter, or sewer cleanout.

    residential service-connection quotation fee: 30 USD per lot (For properties having service connections.) · commercial service-connection quotation fee: 75 USD per lot (For properties having service connections.) · no-service-connection application fee: 209 USD per property (Residential or commercial use without a service connection.)

    “Properties that are contiguous to a District water and/or wastewater line but are not connected, and capacity is available, will need to pay the cost for a connection.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Properties within the Calaveras County Water District service area that are contiguous to a District water and/or wastewater line, are not connected, and have available capacity.
      “Properties that are contiguous to a District water and/or wastewater line but are not connected, and capacity is available, will need to pay the cost for a connection.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Land subdivision and parcel creation in unincorporated Calaveras County, including specific-plan and timber-production areas.

    • In Future Specific Plan areas, no subdivision is permitted unless it conforms to an adopted Specific Plan.
    • In TP zones, parcels may not be subdivided into lots of less than 160 acres unless the timber management plan is amended to include the proposed parcels and the subdivision and plan amendment receive a four-fifths vote of the Board of Supervisors.
    • Before subdivision approval, the Planning Director reviews whether the proposal complies with Title 17 and applicable approvals and conditions.

    minimum TP subdivision lot size: >= 160 acres (Unless the timber management plan is amended as specified and approved by a four-fifths vote of the Board of Supervisors)

    “No subdivision of land is permitted and no new or expanded use shall be approved on land designated Future Specific Plan on the General Plan Land Use Map unless it conforms to the provisions of an adopted Specific Plan.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    New construction in Calaveras County flood hazard areas, including residential and non-residential structures.

    • Chapter 15.06 Flood Damage Prevention applies.
    • New construction must be located outside flood hazard areas, or residential structures must be elevated two feet above the base flood elevation.
    • Non-residential structures require floodproofing.
    • The County Flood Prevention Officer is the Planning Director.
    • The County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program.

    residential elevation above base flood elevation: >= 2 feet (Applies when new residential construction is located in a flood hazard area.)

    “The ordinance requires new construction to be located outside of flood hazard areas or two feet above the base flood elevation for residential structures”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Site grading on public or privately owned property in unincorporated Calaveras County that involves grading within a flood plain shown on the most recent FEMA flood plan maps.
      “A grading permit issued by Public Works is required for all site grading activities on public and privately-owned property within unincorporated Calaveras County unless the activity is specifically exempted as provided for in Section 15.05.080. B. Notwithstanding the exemptions in Section 15.05.080, a grading permit shall be required for any grading that: [...] 2. Involves grading within a flood plain as shown on the most recent FEMA flood plan maps;”
    • Limited — New construction and redevelopment in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas in unincorporated Calaveras County.
      “all new construction or improvements of residential structures to be elevated two feet above the base flood elevations specified on the FIRM for the area.”
    • Required — Grading associated with development in a FEMA-mapped floodplain in unincorporated Calaveras County.
      “Notwithstanding the exemptions in Section 15.05.080, a grading permit shall be required for any grading that: [...] Involves grading within a flood plain”
    • Required — New construction governed by Calaveras County Code Chapter 15.06, Flood Damage Prevention.
      “The ordinance requires new construction to be located outside of flood hazard areas or two feet above the base flood elevation for residential structures and flood proofing for non-residential structures.”
    • Limited — New development, including essential public facilities, located in a flood hazard zone in Calaveras County; the County grading guidance separately flags location in a FEMA floodplain as a special project condition.
      “The Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance shall continue to be used to evaluate whether [...] new development [...] shall be located in a flood hazard zone”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    County building, planning, public works, school, fire, onsite wastewater, and environmental health fees for development in unincorporated Calaveras County.

    • The schedule states that all fees are effective August 8, 2026.
    • Fees differ by permit type and may include school, fire, road impact, encroachment, planning, onsite wastewater, and environmental health charges.
    • All fees are estimates and only include major fees associated with the permit cost; all plan check fees are due upon submittal; other departmental fees may be assessed.
    • All other department fees are provided as reference only and are subject to change at any time.

    single/two family dwelling base fee: 5701 USD ($2,850.50 due at submittal; school and fire fees also apply) · driveway encroachment application: 500 USD (deposit for time and material costs)

    “Single/Two Family Dwelling | $5,701.00 | $2,850.50 | Yes | Yes”
  • Permit processPartial

    County building-permit applications and plan submissions administered by the Calaveras County Building Department.

    • The County provides an online permitting portal called Etrakit for homeowners, realtors, business owners, and licensed contractors.
    • Licensed contractors must provide their Contractors State License Number, company business name, contact email, and in-field inspection phone number when setting up a contractor account.
    • Beginning May 1, 2024, digital or single plan sets are allowed for listed common project types, including qualifying agricultural buildings, residential additions of 1,000 square feet or less, residential remodels, generators, pools and spas, residential decks, porches/patios/carports, garages/sheds/barns, non-structural commercial alterations, and manufactured homes.
    • The cited pages do not establish the complete application, review, inspection, and issuance process for every permit type.

    residential addition streamlined plan threshold: <= 1000 square feet (Listed among project types eligible for digital or single plan sets beginning May 1, 2024.)

    “The Online Permit Service, commonly referred to as "Etrakit," is Calaveras County's comprehensive online permitting portal.”

California rules that apply here

  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Efficiency units permitted by a California city, county, or city and county.

    • The local jurisdiction must adopt an ordinance permitting the efficiency unit.
    • Occupancy is limited to no more than two persons.
    • The unit may have partial kitchen or bathroom facilities as specified by the local ordinance.
    • All other applicable minimum standards under Health and Safety Code Part 1.5 continue to apply.

    minimum floor area: >= 150 square feet · maximum occupancy: <= 2 persons

    “Notwithstanding Sections 17922, 17958, and 17958.5, a city, county, or city and county may, by ordinance, permit efficiency units for occupancy by no more than two persons which have a minimum floor area of 150 square feet and which may also have partial kitchen or bathroom facilities, as specified by the ordinance.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Driveways and driveway connections involving proposed encroachments within, under, or over State highway rights of way.

    • The requirement applies to proposed activities related to placement of encroachments within, under, or over State highway rights of way.
    • Applications are submitted to the appropriate District Encroachment Permits Office having jurisdictional authority over the site.
    • Local or other agency requirements may also apply outside State highway rights of way.
    “An encroachment permit must be obtained for all proposed activities related to the placement of encroachments within, under, or over the State highway rights of way.”
  • 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 — Current lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Calaveras County.
  • Agricultural exemption — Agricultural exemptions from applicable building, zoning, or land-use requirements in unincorporated Calaveras County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Calaveras 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.

Water rights & wells in Calaveras County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from California’s water agency.

Over-appropriated / declining

The aquifer here is over-appropriated and declining. A domestic well is usually still permit-exempt, but long-term supply is a genuine risk.

Household wellPermit required — restricted

California requires no STATE permit for a domestic well — wells are permitted by the county — but under SGMA a Groundwater Sustainability Agency can meter or restrict new wells in medium/high-priority and critically overdrafted basins, and Executive Order N-7-22 requires counties in those basins to get GSA verification that a new well is consistent with the Groundwater Sustainability Plan before permitting.

Limit: 2 acre-feet/year de minimis under SGMA (Water Code §10721(e)) — largely exempt from GSA metering/fees

California DWR / State Water Board — SGMA de minimis & EO N-7-22 Action 9 FAQ ↗

Hybrid state (appropriation + riparian). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the California state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Calaveras County, California

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

Calaveras County scores 51/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure and more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Calaveras County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Calaveras County Environmental Management Agency (Environmental Health). 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 Calaveras County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Calaveras County is limited to specific cases: Camping by a property owner on private property in a recreation vehicle or other shelter or means. The continuous period may not exceed 14 days. The cumulative period may not exceed 30 days in one calendar year. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Calaveras County, California?

Land in Calaveras County runs about $4,909 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Calaveras County?

Calaveras County gets about 35.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 36.8% of years. On water rights, Calaveras County lies in the Eastern San Joaquin Subbasin — Critically Overdrafted — Adopted GSP with pumping reductions to 2040; new production wells subject to GSA consistency review/metering and EO N-7-22..

How remote is Calaveras County?

A representative private-land location has about 5,177 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,707,252 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Calaveras compares in California

Compare side-by-side →See all 58 California counties ranked →