Bolthole Index

Tuolumne County, California

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

43Index Score / 100
#29 of 58 in California

Unincorporated Tuolumne County, California requires building permits for new construction and remodeling, and the Building and Safety Division enforces the adopted California building codes12. County zoning controls land use, lot size, setbacks and height outside the City of Sonora34. Environmental Health issues the sewage disposal permit before septic work begins5.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for new construction and remodeling in unincorporated Tuolumne County, subject to code exemptions16
Zoning
Title 17 applies across the unincorporated county; minimum parcel size, setbacks and height vary by zoning district378
Septic
A county sewage disposal permit is required before septic construction, installation, replacement or repair5
RV living
Limited: only in an approved RV park, up to 30 days a year if stored with a residence, or up to 1 year (extendable) as a temporary residence while building with a permit910
Tiny home
Allowed up to 400 square feet as a primary dwelling or ADU in R-1 districts, if it meets a qualifying building-code classification1112
Owner-builder
Available with a signed county acknowledgment; the owner still needs building permits, code compliance and inspections, and cannot do well-drilling work personally131415
Wells
County Environmental Health oversees well siting and water-quality testing; the specific well-permit ordinance wasn't confirmed online16
Flood and driveway
A floodplain development permit is required in mapped special flood hazard areas; driveways must meet county turnout and grade standards1718

Who to call

Building permits

Tuolumne County Community Development Department, Building Division

Building permits, inspections and floodplain development permits for unincorporated Tuolumne County

(209) 533-5633

cdd@tuolumnecounty.ca.gov

A.N. Francisco Building 48 Yaney Ave. Floors 3 and 4 Sonora, CA 95370

Planning & zoning

Tuolumne County Community Development Department, Planning Division

Zoning verification, land-use permits and subdivision review for unincorporated Tuolumne County

(209) 533-5633

cdd@tuolumnecounty.ca.gov

A.N. Francisco Building 48 Yaney Ave. Floors 3 and 4 Sonora, CA 95370

Septic permits

Tuolumne County Environmental Health Division

Onsite wastewater (septic) system siting, design, construction and maintenance permits for Tuolumne County

209-533-5633

A. N. Franscisco Bldg, 4th Floor 48 W. Yaney St. Sonora, CA 95370

Roads & driveways

Tuolumne County Public Works, Engineering Development Division

Encroachment and grading permits, driveway and road design review for unincorporated Tuolumne County

(209) 533-5601 Option #1

A.N. Francisco Building 48 Yaney Ave. 3rd Flr Sonora, CA 95370

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 16, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Tuolumne 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 Tuolumne County, California?

Yes. Unincorporated Tuolumne County requires building permits for residential, commercial and industrial construction and remodeling, subject to the adopted code's exemptions1. The Building and Safety Division currently enforces the 2025 California Building Standards Code2. Work under a county building permit is inspected by Building and Safety, and an eligible small residential rooftop solar system needs only one inspection1920. An owner may take out a permit as an owner-builder after completing the county acknowledgment, and remains responsible for the project2113. California's owner-builder provision exempts the owner from contractor licensing, not from building permits or inspections, and owners may not do well-drilling work themselves15. These rules govern unincorporated land: inside Sonora, the city issues its own building permits and sets its own zoning224. Septic permits stay with the county23.

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

The Community Development Department's Building and Safety Division reviews building permit applications and provides inspections in unincorporated Tuolumne County2425. The office is at the A.N. Francisco Building, 48 Yaney Ave., Floors 3 and 4, Sonora, and its main line is (209) 533-563324. Apply through the OpenGov permit system, where an account is required, and upload one digital copy when plans and supporting documents are required; permits are issued to owner-builders or to contractors with a current state license6. Call (209) 533-5637 with application questions, and request inspections at 209-533-594024. Inspection requests made after 3:00 p.m. on the preceding day may roll to the next business day26. Fees vary by permit type: the general building-permit line starts at $963.50, with separate inspection and plan-review charges, and the county also publishes schedules for planning, environmental health, traffic impact and other development fees2728.

Does Tuolumne County have zoning?

Yes. Title 17 establishes zoning districts throughout unincorporated Tuolumne County, while the City of Sonora administers its own zoning34. Use the county's parcel-based zoning map as a starting point, then ask the Planning Division to confirm the district, because the county warns that map data can contain errors or delays729. Minimum parcel size depends on the district: A-10 requires at least 10 gross acres, A-20 at least 20, RE-1 at least one net acre and R-1 at least 7,260 net square feet, and the AE districts run from 37 to 160 gross acres8. Dividing land is separately regulated: a tentative map is required for all subdivision maps, filed with the Community Development Department30. Most districts use 15-foot front and rear parcel-boundary setbacks, a 6-foot side setback and a 35-foot setback from a street or right-of-way centerline, but listed districts and special situations differ31. Height limits are generally 40 or 50 feet depending on the district32.

How do septic permits work in Tuolumne County?

Tuolumne County requires a sewage disposal permit from Environmental Health before anyone constructs, installs, replaces or repairs an onsite wastewater system; for a new dwelling, obtain the septic permit before house construction begins5. Environmental Health oversees septic siting, design, construction and maintenance countywide3323. Reach the division at 209-533-5633 and its inspection line at 209-533-599233. The 2026 fee schedule lists $1,025 for a new standard system or standard addition and $1,314 for a new alternative-system permit5. Site conditions deserve early attention: only about 0.3% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for conventional drain fields, and about 19.5% of the land is at a slope of 15% or less3435. Those countywide figures do not decide an individual parcel, but they make an early site evaluation prudent before fixing a house location or budget.

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

Not as a full-time residence outside specific situations. Tuolumne County allows RV occupancy only within an approved recreational vehicle park; a stored RV kept with a residence may shelter people for up to 30 days in a calendar year, and up to two RVs may be stored with a residence9. While a permanent home is being built, a mobile home or RV may serve as a temporary residence for up to a year if permits are first secured for both units; the Director may grant up to one additional year10. The fly-in campground at Columbia Airport and the county's sanctioned camping site are site-specific programs, not permission to camp on any private parcel3637. A tiny home up to 400 square feet may be a primary dwelling or an ADU by right in an R-1 district, but it must fit a recognized state classification and meet applicable standards1112.

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

  1. Confirm the parcel's zoning district, allowed use, lot standards, setbacks and height limit with the Planning Division73839.
  2. Check whether the parcel lies in a mapped special flood hazard area; if so, a floodplain development permit is required before construction, applied for on forms from the floodplain administrator at the Community Development Department17.
  3. Resolve septic feasibility and obtain the sewage disposal permit before construction of a new dwelling begins5.
  4. If acting as owner-builder, complete the county acknowledgment and signature verification required before permit issuance13.
  5. Apply for the building permit in OpenGov and upload one digital plan set when plans are required6.
  6. Design the driveway to county standards and confirm encroachment review with Public Works: turnouts are required on longer driveways, and a turnaround is required within 50 feet of building sites on driveways over 300 feet1840.
  7. Budget from the county's published fee schedules, then schedule Building and Safety inspections as work progresses2719.
  8. Close out the permit after final inspection. For a permit that corrects unpermitted work or finishes an expired-permit project where concealed components cannot feasibly be inspected, the Chief Building Official may issue a conditional certificate of occupancy after final approval; a substandard structure does not qualify4142.

What to check before you buy land in Tuolumne County

Confirm the parcel's zoning directly with the Planning Division before relying on the county map, then compare the district's allowed use, minimum lot size, setbacks and height limit with the proposed site plan729. Test septic feasibility early: only about 0.3% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field34. Check terrain and access because about 19.5% of the county lies at a slope of 15% or less and 65.4% is wooded3543. California requires a local permit before a water well is constructed, modified or destroyed, but the specific Tuolumne County well procedure could not be confirmed; ask Environmental Health before drilling44. Also verify legal road access with Public Works, and check the driveway: county standards cap grade at 16 percent in general, with limited exceptions, and require turnouts on longer driveways1840. Ask the floodplain administrator at the Community Development Department whether the parcel is in a special flood hazard area17. Finally, budget for an effective property-tax rate of about 0.7%, a median annual bill near $2,737 and severe drought in roughly 38% of years454647.

Watch-outs

  • The City of Sonora issues its own building permits and sets its own zoning; confirm which jurisdiction covers a parcel near town limits before relying on county rules224.
  • Short-term rentals in unincorporated Tuolumne County require a paid, passing fire and life-safety inspection renewed every two years, a Transient Occupancy Tax Certificate, a local contact reachable within 60 minutes and a $300 application fee48.
  • The Building and Safety Division currently enforces the 2025 California Building Standards Code, so confirm that plans use the current county-enforced code before filing2.
  • We could not confirm a minimum dwelling size or a blanket agricultural-building exemption from permits in unincorporated Tuolumne County; verify both with the Building Division before finalizing small-home or barn plans24.

Sources

  1. Building Division | Tuolumne County, CA, quoted and re-checked
  2. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  3. tuolumnecounty.ca.gov, quoted and re-checked
  4. Sonora: Sonora 17.16.030 R-1 zone land and structure regulations (Tuolumne County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Chapter 13.08 — On-Site Sewage Treatment and Disposal Code, quoted and re-checked
  6. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  7. GIS Layer Descriptions, quoted and re-checked
  8. Chapter 17.10 Agriculture and Open Space Zoning Districts, quoted and re-checked
  9. Frequently Asked Questions - Planning, quoted and re-checked
  10. Chapter 17.70 - Mobile Homes, Recreational Vehicles, and Campgrounds, quoted and re-checked
  11. Public Draft Prohousing Application, quoted and re-checked
  12. Information Bulletin 2016-01: Tiny Homes (California statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Building Division | Tuolumne County, CA, quoted and re-checked
  14. California Business and Professions Code § 7044, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Officials - Owner-Builder Overview, quoted and re-checked
  16. Well Standards (California statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Chapter 15.24 Floodplain Management, quoted and re-checked
  18. Chapter 11: Basic Road Design and Construction Standards, quoted and re-checked
  19. Building Division | Tuolumne County, CA, quoted and re-checked
  20. Chapter 15.04 Construction Codes, quoted and re-checked
  21. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  22. Sonora: Sonora 17.55.080 ADU occupancy and rental requirements (Tuolumne County), quoted and re-checked
  23. Onsite Wastewater, quoted and re-checked
  24. Tuolumne County Community Development Department, Building Division (tuolumnecounty.ca.gov)
  25. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  26. Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  27. Fee Schedule for Building and Safety Services, quoted and re-checked
  28. Fees, quoted and re-checked
  29. Tuolumne County Community Development Department, Planning Division (tuolumnecounty.ca.gov)
  30. Title 16 Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  31. Chapter 17.22 Standards for All Development and Land Uses, quoted and re-checked
  32. Chapter 17.22 Standards for All Development and Land Uses, quoted and re-checked
  33. Tuolumne County Environmental Health Division (tuolumnecounty.ca.gov)
  34. 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
  35. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Columbia Airport Fly-In Campground, quoted and re-checked
  37. Tuolumne County Sanctioned Camp Program Participant Expectations & Rules, quoted and re-checked
  38. Chapter 17.22 Standards for All Development and Land Uses, quoted and re-checked
  39. Chapter 17.22 Standards for All Development and Land Uses, quoted and re-checked
  40. Tuolumne County Public Works, Engineering Development Division (tuolumnecounty.ca.gov)
  41. Chapter 15.04 Construction Codes, quoted and re-checked
  42. Chapter 15.04 — Construction Codes, quoted and re-checked
  43. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  44. Well Standards (California statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  45. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  46. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  47. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  48. Short-Term Rental Ordinance, quoted and re-checked

Written October 16, 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, Tuolumne County has countywide zoning.

RuleTuolumne CountyMariposa CountyAlpine CountyCalaveras CountyMono CountyAmador CountyMadera County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedLimited
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Env. Health Div.County Env. Health Div.County Health Dept.County Env. Management AgencyCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. Health Dept.County Env. Health Div.

County locator

Tuolumne County in California

43
County map
Tuolumne County highlighted among the California counties · colored by Index score

How Tuolumne County scores

Seclusion37100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency46100% ev.
Admin Boringness40100% ev.
Durability25100% ev.
Property Autonomy56100% ev.
Carry Cost71100% 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 →

$396kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$4,337Land / acre
41"Annual rain
38% of yrsSevere drought
9.2 / yr (+6.1)Mid-century 100°F days
55.6 daysMid-century dry spell
2.82" (+4.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.09×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,941Home insurance / yr
6.5% / yrInsurance growth
4.02%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
32,078Radius comparison (15 mi)
24.4People / sq mi
77.2%Federal land
19.5%Land at 15% slope or less
0.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
3,056 acWorkable land screen
65.4%Wooded land
64.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
50.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Tuolumne County

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

Answers from the rulebook for Tuolumne County

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

Tuolumne County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Residential, commercial, and industrial construction and remodeling in unincorporated Tuolumne County.

    • The county enforces the 2025 California Building Standards Code as adopted by the Board of Supervisors.
    • The requirement is subject to code exemptions, including the listed 2025 Residential Code Section R105.2 and Section 105.2 exemptions.
    • The cited page describes county administration only for the unincorporated area; incorporated municipalities and special-district projects may have separate administration.
    “The Building and Safety Division is responsible for overseeing the general safety of all construction of residential, commercial, and industrial structures in the unincorporated area of Tuolumne County. This is done through the review of applications for building permits for all construction and remodeling projects.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    An owner-builder applying for a construction permit in unincorporated Tuolumne County when the property owner is responsible for the construction and is not hiring a licensed contractor to assume that responsibility.

    • The legal property owner must complete and sign the Owner-Builder Acknowledgment and Information Verification Form.
    • The county will not issue the building permit until the owner has read, initialed, signed, and returned the form.
    • A property-owner driver's-license copy, notarization, or other verification acceptable to the Building and Safety Division is required to verify the signature when the permit is issued.
    • An agent cannot execute the notice unless the property owner obtains prior approval from the Building and Safety Division or signs the authorization-of-agent portion.
    • The owner-builder is the responsible party of record and remains subject to California owner-builder and employer laws.
    • For a single-family residential structure built with intent to offer it for sale, the form states that the owner-builder cannot legally build it unless all work is performed by licensed subcontractors and no more than four structures are built within a calendar year, or all work is performed under contract with a licensed general building contractor.

    employer threshold for labor and materials involving non-California-licensed contractors: >= 500 USD (The form states the owner-builder may be considered an employer under state and federal law.) · single-family structures built for sale: <= 4 structures per calendar year (All work must be performed by licensed subcontractors, unless all work is performed under contract with a licensed general building contractor.)

    “I, as owner of the property, or my employees with wages as their sole compensation, will do the work, and the structure is not intended or offered for sale (Sec. 7044, Business and Professions Code: The Contractors License Law does not apply to an owner of property who builds or improves thereon, and who does the work himself or herself or through his or her own employees, provided that the improvements are not intended or offered for sale.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Owner-builders applying for Tuolumne County building permits in the unincorporated area.
      “All permits for building projects are issued to either owner / builders or contractors, and those contractors require a current state license.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    The 2025 California Building Standards Code, including the 2025 Building Code, for construction in the unincorporated area of Tuolumne County.

    • The code is currently enforced by the Tuolumne County Building and Safety Division.
    • The Division oversees residential, commercial, and industrial construction in the unincorporated area of Tuolumne County.
    • The source does not state an effective or adoption date beyond identifying the 2025 code.

    adopted code edition: 2025 California Building Standards Code, including the 2025 Building Code

    “The 2025 California Building Standards Code, which includes the 2025 Building Code, as adopted by the Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors, is currently enforced by the Division.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Small residential rooftop solar energy systems eligible for Tuolumne County’s expedited review process.

    • Only one inspection is required for an eligible small residential rooftop solar energy system.
    • If the system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is authorized.
    • If the installation deviates from the eligibility checklist, it ceases to be eligible for expedited review and the Chief Building Official may require supplemental information and collect related review and inspection fees.
    • The system must be no larger than 10 kilowatts alternating-current nameplate rating or 30 kilowatts thermal, conform to applicable codes, be installed on a single- or duplex-family dwelling, and comply with the county height limit.

    maximum AC nameplate rating: <= 10 kilowatts · maximum thermal rating: <= 30 kilowatts thermal · required inspections for eligible expedited solar system: 1 inspection (a subsequent inspection is authorized if the system fails inspection)

    “For a small residential rooftop solar energy system eligible for expedited review, only one inspection shall be required, which shall be done in a timely manner. If a small residential rooftop solar energy system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is authorized; however the subsequent inspection need not conform to the requirements of this subsection.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Building permits issued for residential, commercial, and industrial construction and remodeling in unincorporated Tuolumne County.
      “The Building and Safety Division is responsible for overseeing the general safety of all construction of residential, commercial, and industrial structures in the unincorporated area of Tuolumne County. This is done through the review of applications for building permits for all construction and remodeling projects. Inspection services for building permits issued, as well as responding to a variety of structural and safety related issues, are part of this Division's responsibilities.”
    • Required — Construction performed under building permits issued for projects in unincorporated Tuolumne County.
      “The building permit is an authorization to perform work that is required to be inspected by the Building and Safety Division.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    A conditional certificate of occupancy for a structure in unincorporated Tuolumne County where a permit is issued to correct unpermitted work or complete an expired-permit project and inspection of all components is infeasible.

    • A building permit must be issued to correct work performed without a required permit or to complete a project where the building permit has expired.
    • It must be infeasible to inspect all components of the building or structure to verify compliance with adopted construction codes.
    • The final inspection must be approved.
    • The Chief Building Official must issue the conditional certificate, which must identify inspection limitations and include information required by the most current adopted California Building Code.
    • A conditional certificate cannot be issued for a structure deemed substandard under California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
    • If enclosed or obstructed components may be substandard, the Chief Building Official may require exposure for inspection or investigation by a licensed design professional.
    “Whenever a building permit is issued to correct work performed without a required permit or to complete a project where the building permit has expired, and where it is infeasible to inspect all components of the building or structure to verify compliance with adopted construction codes, upon approval of the final inspection, the Chief Building Official shall issue a conditional certificate of occupancy.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — A building permit issued to correct work performed without a required permit, or to complete a project where the building permit has expired, when it is infeasible to inspect all components of the building or structure.
      “upon approval of the final inspection, the Chief Building Official shall issue a conditional certificate of occupancy.”
    • Limited — Projects in unincorporated Tuolumne County where a permit is issued to correct unpermitted work or complete an expired-permit project and not all components can feasibly be inspected.
      “upon approval of the final inspection, the Chief Building Official shall issue a conditional certificate of occupancy.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Tuolumne County zoning districts and land-use regulations in the county's unincorporated territory.

    • The cited zoning title applies to the unincorporated territory of Tuolumne County.
    • Certain uses may be conditional uses subject to review by the Director of Community Development.
    • Other county, special-district, state, or federal permits, approvals, entitlements, and regulations may also apply.
    • The City of Sonora has separate local zoning and planning administration.
    “This title consists of the establishment of various zoning districts within the unincorporated territory of the county within which it is unlawful to erect, construct, alter, or maintain certain structures or to carry on certain occupations or to conduct certain uses of land or of structures, and consists further of appropriate regulations to be enforced in such districts, all as set forth in this title.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Tuolumne County, aggregated across county-administered unincorporated territory and the separately administered City of Sonora.

    • Tuolumne County zoning applies in the unincorporated area.
    • The City of Sonora has its own zoning map and its own Building and Planning Department; its local rules are not the county's rules.
    • The county aggregate therefore varies by jurisdiction and does not represent a single county-administered ordinance covering the incorporated city.
    “In every county and city, land is regulated by its allowed use. Use the maps below to determine if your type of business is permitted in a particular area. Zoning for Tuolumne County Zoning for the City of Sonora Research regulations and requirements with your local Building and Planning Departments Unincorporated area of Tuolumne County City of Sonora”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    County zoning districts and combining districts shown through Tuolumne County parcel-based GIS data and governed by Title 17 of the Tuolumne County Ordinance Code.

    • The zoning layer is parcel-based and intended for map-scale use at 1:250,000.
    • The county warns that zoning data may contain occasional errors or delays and recommends confirmation with the Community Development Department when information is suspect.
    • The GIS tool indicates which zoning districts apply to a parcel but not the amount or location of district boundaries within the parcel.
    • Detailed allowable-use explanations are in Title 17 of the County Ordinance Code.

    example primary zoning district: R-1 (The county gives R-1:MX as an example including a combining district.)

    “Tuolumne County has both primary zoning districts and combining districts.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Parcel division or reconfiguration in Tuolumne County zoning districts, including agricultural and residential districts.

    • Standards vary by zoning district.
    • Existing undersized parcels may be reconfigured only under the stated non-decrease conditions.
    • Parcels resulting from a merger are exempt from the cited minimum parcel-size requirements.
    • Agricultural-laborer-housing divisions in agricultural preserves may be created at five acres or less as provided in California Government Code section 51230.2.

    AE-160 minimum parcel size: >= 160 gross acres (area-to-perimeter ratio must also be at least 210; stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply) · AE-80 minimum parcel size: >= 80 gross acres (area-to-perimeter ratio must also be at least 210; stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply) · AE-37 minimum parcel size: >= 37 gross acres (area-to-perimeter ratio must also be at least 210; stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply) · A-20 minimum parcel size: >= 20 gross acres (average width must also be at least 500 feet; stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply) · A-10 minimum parcel size: >= 10 gross acres (stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply) · R-1 minimum parcel size: >= 7260 net square feet (front-setback-line width must be at least 50 feet; stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply) · R-2 minimum parcel size: >= 7500 net square feet (front-setback-line width must be at least 50 feet; stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply) · R-3 minimum parcel size: >= 12500 net square feet (front-setback-line width must be at least 50 feet; stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply) · RE-1 minimum parcel size: >= 1 net acre (front-setback-line width must be at least 100 feet; stated reconfiguration and merger exceptions apply)

    “parcel so created will be less than 160 gross acres in area”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Parcel division or reconfiguration in the Residential Estate, One Acre Minimum (RE-1) zoning district in unincorporated Tuolumne County.
      “parcel so created will be less than one net acre in area”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Parcel division or reconfiguration in the Exclusive Agricultural, 37 acre minimum (AE-37) zoning district.
      “less than 37 gross acres in area or will have an area to perimeter ratio of less than 210”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings in Tuolumne County zoning districts, except districts governed by planned unit development regulations.

    • A building may not be closer than 35 feet to the centerline of a street or right-of-way, excluding alleys, except as otherwise provided.
    • In all districts except C-K, C-O, C-1, C-2, C-S, BP, M-1, and M-2, the parcel-boundary setbacks are 15 feet front, 15 feet rear, and 6 feet side.
    • Historic Design Preservation districts are exempt from the stated setbacks and use the setbacks established by historic buildings in the district.
    • Special garage/carport relief applies above 3,500 feet elevation or where the average slope exceeds 20 percent, subject to listed conditions, including a 24-foot height limit, Public Works approval where a building permit is required, encroachment-permit requirements, septic separation, and other conditions.

    street or right-of-way centerline setback: >= 35 feet (alleys excluded; exceptions in the chapter apply) · front parcel-boundary setback: >= 15 feet (not applicable as stated to the listed commercial and industrial districts) · rear parcel-boundary setback: >= 15 feet (not applicable as stated to the listed commercial and industrial districts) · side parcel-boundary setback: >= 6 feet (not applicable as stated to the listed commercial and industrial districts) · private garage in front setback maximum area: <= 575 square feet

    “thirty-five feet to the centerline of any street or right-of-way”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings in unincorporated Tuolumne County zoning districts, except where the chapter or a planned-unit-development regulation provides otherwise.
      “thirty-five feet to the centerline of any street or right-of-way, excluding alleys”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Structures in Tuolumne County zoning districts.

    • Height limits vary by zoning district.
    • Chimneys, vents, and architectural or mechanical appurtenances may exceed the district height limit by up to 10 feet.
    • Height limits may be extended only after a use permit is secured and may not violate applicable building codes; any approved excess is added to the required side-yard setback.
    • Public utility poles and communication facilities are excluded except as provided in the chapter or Chapter 17.94.
    • Ground-mounted amateur-radio antennas not exceeding 60 feet are permitted in all zoning districts.
    • Biomass equipment not exceeding 115 feet is exempt from a use permit.

    maximum structure height in A-10, O, O-1, R-1, R-2, RE-1, RE-2, RE-3, RE-5, and RE-10 districts: <= 40 feet from grade (chapter exceptions apply) · maximum structure height in C-K, C-1, C-2, C-S, BP, MU, MPZ, TPZ, P, M-1, M-2, AE-37, K, R-3, C-O, and A-20 districts: <= 50 feet from grade (chapter exceptions apply)

    “height limit for all structures shall be forty feet from grade”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Human occupancy of recreational vehicles and storage of recreational vehicles in Tuolumne County zoning areas.

    • Recreational vehicles may be lived in within an approved recreational vehicle park.
    • Up to two recreational vehicles may be stored in conjunction with any residence.
    • A stored recreational vehicle may be used for shelter for human beings for no more than 30 days per calendar year.

    maximum stored recreational vehicles with a residence: 2 vehicles · maximum human-occupancy period for a stored recreational vehicle: <= 30 days per calendar year

    “Recreational vehicles may be lived in within an approved recreational vehicle park. Two recreational vehicles may be stored in conjunction with any residence. Any such stored recreational vehicle may be used for shelter for human beings for up to 30 days per calendar year.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Use of a recreational vehicle as a temporary residence while a permanent residence is under construction.
      “A mobile home, without a foundation system, or recreational vehicle may be used as a temporary residence for up to one year while a permanent residence is under construction, provided a building permit is first secured for both the temporary mobile home or recreational vehicle and the permanent residence.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary camping in Tuolumne County’s Sanctioned Camping Program site on county property.

    • Participants are encouraged to engage in services and move toward more suitable housing; the site is not for long-term stays.
    • Eligibility information is available from Tuolumne County Social Services at 209.533.5711.
    • Camping is allowed only in designated spots.
    • Tent camping is on the right below the portable toilets in unassigned spots.
    • RV camping is on the left above the portable toilets in designated spots only.
    • Construction of shelter or yard space is not allowed.
    • Personal belongings must remain contained in vehicles and tents and may not be gathered or accumulated onsite.
    • Only personal and operable vehicles are allowed.
    • Urination and defecation must occur in provided toilets only.
    • Garbage must be placed in provided dumpsters.
    • Weapons, illegal drugs, alcohol, violent verbal or physical acts, open bonfires, debris fires, and loud music are not allowed; cooking stoves are allowed.
    • Pets must be restrained or crated and may not roam the property; pet care and facility clean-up are the owner’s responsibility.
    • The entire site must be vacated each week for facilities maintenance and cleaning, as posted.

    site closure: per weekly frequency (For facilities maintenance and cleaning as posted)

    “Camping is allowed in designated spots only. Tent camping is on the right below the portable toilets in unassigned spots and RV’s are on the left above the portable toilets in designated spots only.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed — Temporary camping at the county-operated Columbia Airport Fly-In Campground in Tuolumne County.
      “The Columbia Airport Fly-In Campground is OPEN for camping. Please note this is a fly-in-only campground. The campground is available on a first-come-first-served basis.”
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Tiny homes of 400 square feet or less used as primary dwelling units or added as accessory dwelling units in R-1 districts.

    • Tiny homes are subject to the Tuolumne County ordinance code.
    • The source states that tiny homes may serve as primary dwelling units or may be added as ADUs by-right in all R-1 districts.
    • Applicable building, health, and life-safety requirements remain applicable.

    maximum tiny-home area: <= 400 square feet

    “Tiny homes may serve as primary dwelling units or may be added as ADUs by-right in all R-1 districts.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Siting, design, construction, and maintenance of onsite wastewater systems in Tuolumne County.

    • The County Environmental Health Division enforces Chapter 13.08.
    • State OWTS regulations also apply through the county program.
    “Siting, design, and installation of onsite wastewater systems”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, replacement, repair, or specified modification of an onsite wastewater treatment system or private sewage disposal system anywhere in Tuolumne County.

    • A sewage disposal permit from the Environmental Health Division is required before work begins.
    • For an OWTS or private sewage disposal system serving a new dwelling, the permit must be obtained before commencement of construction of the new dwelling.
    • A permit is required for modification of any part of the septic tank or leach field other than pumping a septic tank, including addition or replacement of leach-field trenches.
    • Emergency work may begin before obtaining a permit only if the Environmental Health Division is satisfied that the work was urgently necessary and that obtaining a permit before commencement was impractical.
    • For emergency work, the permit must be obtained as soon as practical; an unreasonable delay in filing the application, defined as more than seven days, results in a double fee.
    • Permit applications must be made in the manner and on forms directed and devised by the Environmental Health Division.
    • The ordinance states that a permit fee is charged under Chapter 3.40 of the County Code. The Environmental Health fee schedule effective January 1, 2026 lists $1,025 for standard septic system construction/new standard additions and $1,314 for a new alternative septic system permit.

    standard septic system construction/new standard additions fee: 1025 USD (Environmental Health fee schedule effective January 1, 2026) · new alternative septic system permit fee: 1314 USD (Environmental Health fee schedule effective January 1, 2026) · emergency application delay treated as unreasonable: > 7 days (Double fee charged)

    “No person, whether as principal, servant, agent, employee, owner or tenant, or otherwise, shall construct, install, replace, or repair any OWTS or private sewage disposal system in any area of Tuolumne County without first having obtained a sewage disposal permit from the Environmental Health Division.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision maps in unincorporated Tuolumne County.

    • The Board approves, conditionally approves, or denies tentative subdivision maps.
    • Final maps require compliance with applicable Title 16 requirements and may require preliminary soils reports, improvements, easements, drainage, water, fire hydrants, and related approvals.
    • Tentative-map applications are filed with the Community Development Department and must include checklist items and CEQA submittals.
    “A tentative map is required for all subdivision maps.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveways serving development in unincorporated Tuolumne County.

    • Driveways between 150 and 800 feet require a turnout at the midpoint.
    • Driveways over 800 feet require turnouts at 400-foot intervals.
    • Turnouts are not required on common driveways with a minimum 18-foot-wide traffic lane.
    • If a dwelling is less than 150 feet from the roadway, driveway grade may reach 22 percent only if the driveway is paved and a 10-by-40-foot parking bay at road grade is provided.
    • A turnaround bulb or hammerhead is required within 50 feet of all building sites on driveways over 300 feet long.
    • Exceptions may only be granted by the Tuolumne County Fire Prevention Division under section 15.20.050.

    maximum driveway grade: 16 percent (May reach 22 percent for qualifying dwellings less than 150 feet from the roadway with paving and a required parking bay.) · common driveway traffic lane: >= 18 feet (Turnouts are not required when this minimum is met.) · building-site turnaround distance: <= 50 feet (Applies to driveways over 300 feet in length.)

    “Turnouts shall be provided at midpoint for driveways between one hundred fifty (150) feet and eight hundred (800) feet in length and at four hundred (400) foot intervals for driveways over eight hundred (800) feet in length. Turnouts are not required on common driveways which are required to have a minimum eighteen (18) foot wide traffic lane.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or other development, including manufactured homes, within areas of special flood hazard identified under Tuolumne County Code section 15.24.070.

    • A development permit is required before construction or other development in an area of special flood hazard.
    • The application must use forms furnished by the floodplain administrator at the Community Development Department.
    • Applications must include scaled plans showing locations, dimensions, elevations, structures, materials, utilities, grading, drainage, regulatory floodway when applicable, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, and nonresidential floodproofing elevation.
    • Additional certifications are required for nonresidential floodproofing and crawl-space foundations.
    • The chapter applies to all areas of special flood hazards within the county jurisdiction and adopts FEMA maps dated September 5, 1990, together with later amendments and revisions.

    maximum cumulative base-flood water-surface increase before regulatory floodway adoption: <= 1 foot (Applies to qualifying development in Zones A and AE or shallow-flooding areas.)

    “A development permit shall be obtained before any construction or other development, including manufactured homes, within any area of special flood hazard established in section 15.24.070. Application for a development permit shall be made on forms furnished by the floodplain administrator at the Community Development Department.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Residential units rented for 30 days or less as short-term rentals in unincorporated Tuolumne County.

    • The ordinance was adopted in January 2024.
    • A Transient Occupancy Tax Certificate is required and does not need renewal, but must be updated if information changes.
    • Beginning January 19, 2024, a paid and passing Fire and Life Safety inspection is required to operate or use an STR.
    • The STR application must be submitted by the homeowner or management company when scheduling the inspection.
    • The inspection is good for two years and must be renewed every two years.
    • A local contact person must be available by telephone 24 hours a day, able to be onsite within 60 minutes, and have access and authority to manage the unit.
    • The Short-Term Rental Application fee is $300.

    rental duration: <= 30 consecutive calendar days or fewer · application fee: 300 USD · inspection renewal period: 2 years · local contact response time: <= 60 minutes

    “Beginning 1/19/2024, all STR applicants will be required to have passed a fire and life safety inspection in order to operate or use a short-term rental in the unincorporated area of Tuolumne County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Short-term rentals in unincorporated Tuolumne County.
      “Beginning 1/19/2024, all STR applicants will be required to have passed a fire and life safety inspection in order to operate or use a short-term rental in the unincorporated area of Tuolumne County.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Development fees administered by Tuolumne County for new construction, remodeling, land divisions, and business development.

    • The county page links separate schedules for Building and Safety Fees, Building Plan Review Deposits, Residential Fees, Traffic Impact Mitigation Fees, County Service Impact Fees, Planning Services Fees, Code Compliance Fines and Abatement Costs, and Environmental Health Fees.
    • The cited page describes fee categories but does not state that the same schedules apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    “Tuolumne County collects development fees to support the services necessary for safe, healthy, and well-planned growth. These fees are used to cover the costs of reviewing applications, conducting inspections, and ensuring that projects comply with local, state, and federal regulations. They apply to a wide range of activities, including new construction, remodeling, land divisions, and business development.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Building and safety permit fees for construction in unincorporated Tuolumne County.
      “All other Building Permits $ 963.50 plus $ 175.25 1) per inspection over one (1) $ 159.75 2) per hour of plan review”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building permit application and inspection process for construction and remodeling projects in unincorporated Tuolumne County.

    • Permits are issued to owner-builders or contractors; contractors must have a current state license.
    • Applicants use the OpenGov permit system and must create an account or log in.
    • If construction plans and supporting documents are required, one digital copy must be uploaded.
    • Building inspections should be requested before 3:00 p.m. the day before the desired inspection to avoid scheduling on the next business day.
    • Owner-builders should contact the Development Information Center regarding owner-builder limitations.

    inspection request deadline: before 3:00 p.m. the day before the desired inspection

    “To apply for a building permit, select the Apply for a Building Permit link in the left column. You will be directed to the OpenGov permit system to either create an account or to log in.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Building-permit applications for residential, commercial, and industrial construction and remodeling in unincorporated Tuolumne County.
      “To apply for a building permit, select the Apply for a Building Permit link in the left column. You will be directed to the OpenGov permit system to either create an account or to log in. If your project requires construction plans and supporting documents, you will be required to upload one digital copy to the OpenGov permitting system.”

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.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Occupancy of manufactured homes inside or outside mobilehome parks in California.

    • The manufactured home must satisfy applicable federal standards and California Manufactured Housing Act and Title 25 requirements.
    • Installation and approval for occupancy are governed by the Mobilehome Parks Act.
    • HCD or a local enforcement agency with assumed Mobilehome Parks Act authority is responsible for ensuring compliance with statutory construction and maintenance requirements.
    • Local agency approvals may be necessary for the project.

    minimum width for a new manufactured home: >= 8 body feet (The statutory definition also includes units at least 40 body feet in length.) · minimum erected floor area for a new manufactured home: >= 320 square feet

    “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.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    ADUs and junior ADUs subject to California State ADU Law.

    • Approval is ministerial and without discretionary review or a hearing.
    • Development standards must be objective and knowable in advance.
    • The local permitting agency must determine application completeness and provide written notice within 15 business days.
    • If an application is incomplete, the agency must identify missing items and explain how to complete it.
    • Local site, building, health, safety, fire, utility, and other applicable requirements continue to apply.

    written completeness determination: <= 15 business days (Measured from the permitting agency's receipt of the application.) · final written determination after appeal: <= 60 business days (Applies after receipt of the written appeal.)

    “A permit application for an accessory dwelling unit shall be considered and approved ministerially without discretionary review or a hearing [...] A permitting agency shall determine whether an application to create or serve an accessory dwelling unit is complete and provide written notice of this determination to the applicant not later than 15 business days after the permitting agency received the application.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    OWTS in a Tier 3 Advanced Protection Management Program with supplemental treatment components, including systems in specified impaired-water-body areas statewide.

    • The requirement applies to OWTS in an Advanced Protection Management Program with supplemental treatment components.
    • Ongoing monitoring must follow the OWTS operation and maintenance manual or occur more frequently if required by the local agency or Regional Water Board.
    • Where telemetry is not possible, the owner or owner's agent must inspect at least monthly while the system is in use and notify the service provider at least quarterly of observed operating parameters.
    • For systems designed to meet disinfection requirements, a service provider must inspect proper operation quarterly while the system is in use unless continuous telemetric monitoring is capable of assessing operation.
    • Quarterly effluent sampling and certified-laboratory requirements apply to systems subject to the disinfection provisions.

    inspection frequency where telemetry is not possible: per monthly (While the system is in use.) · inspection frequency for disinfection systems: per quarterly (While the system is in use, unless continuous telemetric monitoring is capable of assessing operation.)

    “Where telemetry is not possible, the owner or owner’s agent shall inspect the system at least monthly while the system is in use as directed and instructed by a service provider and notify the service provider not less than quarterly of the observed operating parameters of the OWTS. [...] OWTS in an Advanced Protection Management Program designed to meet the disinfection requirements in Section 10.10 shall be inspected for proper operation quarterly while the system is in use by a service provider unless a telemetric monitoring system is capable of continuously assessing the operation of the disinfection system.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction, modification, or destruction of water wells in California.

    • The permit is obtained from the applicable local environmental health agency or local water district before construction, modification, or destruction.
    • Local enforcing agencies may adopt ordinances that meet or exceed DWR Well Standards.
    • If no local well ordinance is adopted, the local enforcing agency must enforce the Statewide Model Well Ordinance.
    • Water wells supplying public water systems have additional State Water Resources Control Board Division of Drinking Water certification requirements.
    • Water-well construction must be performed by a licensed C-57 Well Drilling Contractor.
    “Well owners need to obtain permits from local environmental health agencies or local water districts before construction, modification, or destruction takes place.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction, alteration, maintenance, or destruction of water wells, monitoring wells, cathodic protection wells, and geothermal heat exchange wells in California.
      “Permitting and enforcement are carried out by the LEAs, such as the County Department of Environmental Health.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Certain existing OWTS in California Tier 3 impaired-water-body areas that commit to connect to a centralized wastewater collection and treatment system regulated through waste discharge requirements.

    • The OWTS must have been constructed and operating, or permitted, on or before the date the nearby water body was added to OWTS Policy Attachment 2.
    • The owner must commit by legally binding document to connect to a centralized wastewater collection and treatment system regulated through waste discharge requirements.
    • The owner must sign the legally binding document within 48 months after the nearby water body's initial listing on Attachment 2.
    • The specified connection date may not extend beyond nine years after the date the nearby water body is added to Attachment 2.
    • The rule is an exception to Section 10 requirements for qualifying existing or permitted systems; it is not a general statewide requirement that every property connect to public sewer.

    deadline to sign connection commitment: 48 months (Measured from the date the nearby water body is initially listed on Attachment 2.) · maximum time to complete connection: <= 9 years (Measured from the date the nearby water body is added to Attachment 2.)

    “The owner must sign the document within forty-eight months of the date that the nearby water body is initially listed on Attachment 2. The specified date for the connection to the centralized community wastewater collection and treatment system shall not extend beyond nine years following the date that the nearby water body is added to Attachment 2.”
  • 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.

  • Agricultural exemption — Possible exemption from county building, zoning, or development requirements for agricultural structures or agricultural operations.

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 Tuolumne County, California

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

Tuolumne County scores 43/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure and about 32,078 people within 15 miles.

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

Tuolumne County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Tuolumne County 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 Tuolumne County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Tuolumne County is limited to specific cases: Human occupancy of recreational vehicles and storage of recreational vehicles in Tuolumne County zoning areas. Recreational vehicles may be lived in within an approved recreational vehicle park. Up to two recreational vehicles may be stored in conjunction with any residence. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Tuolumne County, California?

Land in Tuolumne County runs about $4,337 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Tuolumne County?

Tuolumne County gets about 41" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 38% of years.

How remote is Tuolumne County?

A typical private-land location has about 32,078 people within 15 miles and 7,623,252 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Tuolumne compares in California

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