Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Dixie County, Florida
78Index Score / 100 #2 of 67 in Florida
Unincorporated Dixie County, Florida requires a building permit before construction begins, and the statewide Florida Building Code applies12. County zoning covers all unincorporated land, with agricultural districts ranging from 2 to 100 acres minimum34. Septic permits and inspections go through the Florida Department of Health in Dixie County5.
At a glance
Building permit
Required in unincorporated Dixie County before any work or installation begins1
Zoning
Countywide Zoning Ordinance administered by the county Zoning Department for unincorporated areas67
Septic permits
Florida Department of Health in Dixie County, not the building department58
Owner-builder
Allowed under Florida's statewide exemption if the owner personally supervises all unlicensed work910
Minimum dwelling size
At least 150 sq ft of floor space for the first occupant, plus 100 sq ft per additional occupant11
Minimum lot size
2 to 100 acres in agricultural districts (A-5 to A-1), or 7,500 to 20,000 sq ft in residential districts (RSF-3 to RSF-1)4
Short-term rentals
An annual Dixie County license and $200 application fee are required12
RV living
Special exception required for one owner-occupied RV on a vacant parcel13
Building permits, plan review, inspections, code enforcement, and zoning administration (rezoning, variances, special exceptions, subdivision and site plan review) for unincorporated Dixie County
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Do you need a building permit in Dixie County, Florida?
Yes. Unincorporated Dixie County requires a building permit before construction or installation begins, with separate permits for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, roofing, and gas work14. The Florida Building Code is adopted statewide, so it applies without a separate county adoption2. A qualifying nonresidential farm building on a bona fide farm is exempt from the building code, but that exception does not turn a farm building into a residence15. Floodplain rules remain in force for an exempt farm building, and development in a flood hazard area may still require an application and approval from the Floodplain Administrator1516. An owner-builder may act as the contractor for a qualifying home but must personally supervise unlicensed work; the exemption does not remove permit, code, or zoning requirements10.
Who is the Dixie County building department, and how do you reach them?
The Dixie County Building & Zoning Department handles permits, plan review, inspections, code enforcement, and zoning administration for unincorporated property17. The office is at 387 SE 22 Ave, PO Box 2600, Cross City, FL 32628, and the main line is 352.498.123517. Bring the deed or contract for deed and, if the applicant is neither the owner nor contractor, a notarized owner-authorization letter18. Incomplete residential applications are not processed, so assemble the signed survey, 911 address, scaled site plan, septic permit or sewer-company letter, construction documents, and other applicable checklist items before applying18. Land-development fees are set by County Commission resolution and paid with the signed application or appeal; the available rule does not establish current building-permit, plan-review, or inspection fees19.
Does Dixie County have zoning?
Yes. Dixie County's Zoning Department applies the land-development regulations throughout unincorporated Dixie County and reviews building permits, site plans, and subdivisions for compliance73. Agricultural districts run from a 2-acre minimum in A-5 to a 100-acre minimum in A-1; conventional single-family districts run from 7,500 square feet in RSF-3 to 20,000 square feet in RSF-1, and RSF-2 and RSF-3 require accessible community water4. RSF structures generally have a 35-foot height limit, and single-family homes and duplexes with accessory buildings are limited to 40% lot coverage2021. A 35-foot natural buffer applies along wetlands and perennial rivers, streams, and creeks22. A dwelling must provide at least 150 square feet for the first occupant and 100 more for each additional occupant11. The county Zoning Department’s authority is described for unincorporated Dixie County, so zoning inside an incorporated town is a question for that town; septic permits stay with the Florida Department of Health in Dixie County either way235.
How do septic permits work in Dixie County?
The Florida Department of Health in Dixie County handles septic permits and inspections because Dixie is outside the counties transferred to the state DEP program824. Florida requires a permit before an onsite sewage system is installed, replaced, repaired, modified, or abandoned, with a site evaluation to determine whether the property can support it25. Dixie County's residential checklist requires either a septic permit or a sewer-company letter with the building application, so settle wastewater feasibility early26. No Dixie County soils in the dataset avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field, making the site evaluation especially important and increasing the chance that a parcel needs a more specialized design27. We could not confirm a general rule for off-grid sanitation outside a permitted septic system or public sewer; ask Environmental Health before designing around one.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Dixie County?
Living in one recreational vehicle on a vacant parcel in unincorporated Dixie County takes a special exception, not just a building permit13. The approval site plan must show potable water, wastewater, solid-waste collection and electric power; the power pole is limited to 60 amperes, with up to 100 amperes inside the Suwannee Water Board service area when a grinder pump is used13. The RV must be owner-occupied, stay on wheels with quick-disconnect utilities and no permanent attachments, meet the county flood requirements, carry a posted 9-1-1 address and pass an annual inspection; one detached storage building up to 120 square feet is allowed13. Separately, the county's campground standards for travel-trailer parks set a minimum 1,200-square-foot site and a 25-foot separation from a lot line28. A tiny home is treated as a structure: before anyone occupies it temporarily or permanently, the county building permit and septic tank permit, plus any county impact fee, must be in place, and the county ordinance exempts only camping or occupying a parcel for no more than 15 days a year29. A permanent small dwelling must also provide at least 150 square feet for the first occupant and 100 more for each additional occupant11. Mobile homes follow separate RMH district rules, and site-plan, anchoring, skirting, building-code, floodplain, septic and permit requirements still apply30.
Building a home in Dixie County: the steps, in order
Identify the parcel's zoning district and confirm its lot, setback, height, and coverage standards with Building & Zoning3117.
Confirm that any recent land split received final-plat approval; a nonconforming post-regulation parcel cannot receive a building permit32.
Ask whether the site needs floodplain approval before design work proceeds16.
Obtain the septic site evaluation and permit, or a sewer-company letter, through the appropriate wastewater provider3326.
Submit a complete building package with ownership, survey, site-plan, address, and construction documents18.
Secure the separate trade permits and post the recorded Notice of Commencement before the first inspection1434.
Submit driveway approval before final power is released35.
What to check before you buy land in Dixie County
Start with wastewater: no Dixie County soils in the dataset avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so obtain a site evaluation before assuming a standard system will work27. The Suwannee Water and Sewer district serves the town of Suwannee, but that does not establish service or a mandatory connection elsewhere in Dixie County36. Check flood status early because Dixie County administers a Flood Ordinance and may require a separate floodplain development permit or approval3716. Verify legal access and the driveway approval path before closing, since driveway approval is required before final power release35. Confirm that the parcel meets its zoning district's lot standards and that any prior division complied with subdivision rules3832. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.7%, with a median annual bill near $7153940.
Watch-outs
An RV used as a home on vacant unincorporated land needs a special exception, owner occupancy, an annual inspection and a 60-ampere power limit, so confirm with the Zoning Department before moving one onto a parcel1317.
Dixie County's land-use application fees vary by County Commission resolution, and the available rule does not provide a current building-permit fee schedule; ask Building & Zoning for the applicable amount1917.
Short-term overnight rentals require an annual Dixie County license and a $200 application fee12.
No official source addresses off-grid sanitation systems not tied to a permitted septic system; ask the Health Department directly if you're planning one5.
Written October 9, 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.
Dixie County highlighted among the Florida counties · colored by Index score
How Dixie County scores
Seclusion79100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency59100% ev.
Admin Boringness44100% ev.
Durability63100% ev.
Property Autonomy91100% ev.
Carry Cost8494% 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 →
$223kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$4,694Land / acre
56.2"Annual rain
4.9% of yrsSevere drought
3.2 / yr (+3)Mid-century 100°F days
16.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.92" (+4.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.12×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
state median fallbackInsurance basis
873,253People within 2 hr
17,861Radius comparison (15 mi)
24.8People / sq mi
6.2%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Dixie 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.
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Dixie County rules
Building permitRequired
Residential construction and related work requiring a building permit in unincorporated Dixie County.
No work or installation may commence before the permit is issued.
Separate permits must be secured for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, roofing, and gas work.
Municipal requirements apply if the property is within city limits.
Permit applications require the listed property and project documentation, including deed or contract for deed, and a notarized owner authorization letter when the applicant is neither the owner nor contractor.
“NOTICE: Application is hereby made to obtain a permit to do the work and installations as indicated. I certify that no work or installation has commenced prior to the issuance of a permit and that all work will be performed to meet the standards of all laws regulating construction in this jurisdiction. I understand that a separate permit must be secured for ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, MECHANICAL, ROOFING, GAS, ECT..”
InspectionsLimited
Building-permit work in unincorporated Dixie County for which the county inspection process applies.
The county residential application refers to a first inspection and requires the Notice of Commencement to be recorded and posted before that inspection.
The source does not enumerate all inspection types or establish whether every category of work requires the same inspections.
“A NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT MUST BE RECORDED AND POSTED ON THE JOB SITE BEFORE THE FIRST INSPECTION.”
County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)
Dixie County zoning and land-development regulations in the entire unincorporated area of the county.
The regulations apply to the entire unincorporated area of Dixie County.
Land and buildings must conform to all applicable land-development-regulation provisions, subject to nonconforming-situation provisions.
Zoning permits, sign permits, special exceptions, subdivision plat approvals, zoning amendments, variances, and other administrative relief may require fees established by Board of County Commissioners resolution.
The county page states that the Zoning Department enforces the ordinance through review of building permits, site plans, and subdivision proposals.
The regulations were adopted September 27, 1990 by Ordinance No. 90-04 and amended by later ordinances listed in the source, including Ordinances Nos. 21-08 and 21-09 dated August 19, 2021.
“These land development regulations shall apply to the entire unincorporated area of the County.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Present (with conditions) — Dixie County Zoning Ordinance and related land-use regulations in unincorporated Dixie County.
“The Zoning Department is responsible for administering the Dixie County Zoning Ordinance and related land use regulations, such as the Flood Ordinance.”
Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
Dixie County zoning and related land-use regulation in unincorporated Dixie County.
The county Building Department page states that county ordinances are adopted for unincorporated Dixie County.
The Dixie County Zoning Department administers the county zoning ordinance and related land-use regulations, including the Flood Ordinance.
The department enforces the ordinance through review of building permits, site plans, and subdivision proposals.
The department processes rezoning, variances, special exceptions, vested-rights, and appeals applications under state and local law.
Consistency with the Dixie County Comprehensive Plan is maintained through periodic updates to the zoning ordinance and related regulations.
“The Zoning Department is responsible for administering the Dixie County Zoning Ordinance and related land use regulations, such as the Flood Ordinance. [...] The Zoning Department enforces the ordinance through the review of building permits, site plans, and subdivision proposals.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Present (with conditions) — County zoning and related land-use regulation in unincorporated Dixie County.
“ARTICLE FOUR ZONING REGULATIONS [...] These land development regulations shall apply to the entire unincorporated area of the County.”
Present (with conditions) — County zoning regulation in unincorporated Dixie County, including review of permitted land uses, development standards, building permits, site plans, and subdivision proposals.
“County ordinances as adopted for unincorporated Dixie County. [...] The Zoning Department is responsible for administering the Dixie County Zoning Ordinance”
Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)
The official zoning districts and atlas governing the entire unincorporated area of Dixie County.
The Land Development Regulations apply to the entire unincorporated area of the county.
The listed districts are CSV Conservation, ESA Environmentally Sensitive Areas, A Agricultural, RR Rural Residential, RSF Residential Conventional Single Family, RSF/MH Residential Mixed Single Family/Mobile Home, RMH Residential Mobile Home, RMH-P Residential Mobile Home Park, RMF Residential Multiple Family, O Office, CN Commercial Neighborhood, CG Commercial General, CI Commercial Intensive, ILW Industrial Light and Warehousing, I Industrial, and PRD Planned Residential Development.
District-specific uses and development standards must be checked in Article Four and the Official Zoning Atlas.
Incorporated municipalities may have separate municipal rules.
“the following zoning districts are established:”
Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified
Dwelling units in the unincorporated area of Dixie County before issuance of a Certificate of Land Development Regulation Compliance.
The dwelling unit must contain at least 150 square feet for the first occupant and 100 additional square feet per additional occupant.
The floor area is calculated using the total area of all habitable rooms.
Sleeping rooms have separate minimum area requirements: 70 square feet for one occupant and 50 square feet per occupant for rooms occupied by more than one person.
Habitable rooms generally require a seven-foot ceiling height, subject to the stated sloping-ceiling and five-foot minimum-height calculation rules.
Basement or cellar habitable-space occupancy is subject to the listed waterproofing, window-area, grade, and ventilation conditions.
floor space for first occupant: >= 150 square feet · additional floor space per additional occupant: per 100 square feet · sleeping room space for one occupant: >= 70 square feet · sleeping room space per occupant when more than one occupant: per 50 square feet
“Prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Land Development Regulation Compliance the dwelling unit shall contain at least one hundred fifty (150) square feet of floor space for the first occupant thereof and at least one hundred (100) additional square feet of floor area per additional occupant.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Specified — Dwelling units in unincorporated Dixie County before issuance of a Certificate of Land Development Regulation Compliance
“Prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Land Development Regulation Compliance the dwelling unit shall contain at least one hundred fifty (150) square feet of floor space for the first occupant thereof and at least one hundred (100) additional square feet of floor area per additional occupant.”
Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)
Conventional single-family dwellings, mobile homes, and group living facilities in Dixie County A-1 through A-5 Agricultural districts, and conventional single-family dwellings in RSF-1 through RSF-3 districts, unincorporated area
A-1 through A-5 require respectively 100 acres, 40 acres, 10 acres, 5 acres, and 2 acres, with corresponding minimum widths of 1,000, 600, 400, 300, and 150 feet.
RSF-2 and RSF-3 are permitted only where community water systems are available and accessible.
Other permitted or permissible uses may have no minimum lot area except as needed to meet other requirements.
A-1 minimum lot area: >= 100 acres · A-2 minimum lot area: >= 40 acres · A-3 minimum lot area: >= 10 acres · A-4 minimum lot area: >= 5 acres · A-5 minimum lot area: >= 2 acres · RSF-1 minimum lot area: >= 20000 square feet · RSF-2 minimum lot area: >= 10000 square feet · RSF-3 minimum lot area: >= 7500 square feet
“A-1 Minimum lot area 100 acres Minimum lots width 1000 feet A-2 Minimum lot area 40 acres Minimum lot width 600 feet A-3 Minimum lot area 10 acres Minimum lot width 400 feet A-4 Minimum lot area 5 acres Minimum lot width 300 feet A-5 Minimum lot area 2 acres Minimum lot width 150 feet”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
District specific (with conditions) — Conventional single-family dwellings, mobile homes, and group living facilities in unincorporated Dixie County Agricultural districts A-1 through A-5, and conventional single-family dwellings in RSF-1 through RSF-3 districts.
“A-1 Minimum lot area 100 acres Minimum lots width 1000 feet A-2 Minimum lot area 40 acres Minimum lot width 600 feet A-3 Minimum lot area 10 acres Minimum lot width 400 feet A-4 Minimum lot area 5 acres Minimum lot width 300 feet A-5 Minimum lot area 2 acres Minimum lot width 150 feet”
District specific (with conditions) — Conventional single-family dwellings and duplexes in RSF-1, RSF-2, and RSF-3 districts in unincorporated Dixie County.
“RSF-1: Minimum lot area 20,000 square feet Minimum lot width 100 feet RSF-2: Minimum lot area 10,000 square feet Minimum lot width 85 feet Note: RSF-2 districts shall only be permitted where community water systems are available and accessible. RSF-3: Minimum lot area 7,500 square feet Minimum lot width 50 feet”
SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)
Minimum yards and related buffers for conventional single-family dwellings and other permitted uses in RSF-1, RSF-2, and RSF-3 districts in unincorporated Dixie County.
Section 4.18.30 right-of-way setback requirements also apply.
A 35-foot natural buffer is required from wetlands and perennial rivers, streams, and creeks; residential, commercial, and industrial land uses are prohibited within those buffer areas, subject to the stated resource-based recreation exception.
For uses other than single-family residential, agricultural, and silvicultural uses adjacent to a Water Management District work, the applicable Rule 40B-4 buffer setback applies.
RSF-1 conventional single-family front yard: >= 30 feet · RSF-1 conventional single-family side yard: >= 15 feet (Each side yard.) · RSF-1 conventional single-family rear yard: >= 15 feet · RSF-2 conventional single-family or duplex front yard: >= 25 feet · RSF-2 conventional single-family or duplex side yard: >= 10 feet (Each side yard.) · RSF-2 conventional single-family or duplex rear yard: >= 15 feet · RSF-3 conventional single-family or duplex front yard: >= 20 feet · RSF-3 conventional single-family or duplex side yard: >= 10 feet (Each side yard.) · RSF-3 conventional single-family or duplex rear yard: >= 15 feet · natural buffer from wetlands and perennial rivers, streams, and creeks: >= 35 feet (Residential, commercial, and industrial land uses are prohibited within the buffer areas, while resource-based recreational activities are permitted.)
“RSF-1: Front 30 feet Side 15 feet for each side yard. Rear 15 feet Conventional single family dwellings and duplexes: RSF-2: Front 25 feet Side 10 feet for each side yard. Rear 15 feet RSF-3: Front 20 feet Side 10 feet for each side yard. Rear 15 feet”
Lot coverageSpecified
Buildings in RSF-1, RSF-2, and RSF-3 districts in unincorporated Dixie County.
Conventional single-family dwellings and duplexes, including accessory buildings, are subject to the 40 percent limit.
Other permitted buildings and accessory buildings are subject to the 35 percent limit.
No structure may exceed a 1.0 floor area ratio, in addition to lot, yard, building-height, lot-coverage, buffering, and parking requirements.
conventional single-family dwelling or duplex lot coverage including accessory buildings: <= 40 percent · other permitted building lot coverage including accessory buildings: <= 35 percent · floor area ratio: <= 1 ratio
“1. Conventional single family dwellings and duplexes, including their accessory buildings: 40% 2. Other permitted buildings in connection with permitted or permissible uses, including their accessory buildings: 35%”
Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)
Buildings in Agricultural and RSF zoning districts in unincorporated Dixie County
Agricultural districts state that maximum height is unrestricted, subject to other applicable requirements and exceptions.
RSF structures may not exceed 35 feet, with exceptions referenced in Section 4.18.
A maximum height: unrestricted (subject to other applicable requirements) · RSF maximum height: <= 35 feet (Section 4.18 exceptions may apply)
“4.6.8 MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF STRUCTURES: NO PORTION SHALL EXCEED: (See also Section 4.18 for exceptions) 35 feet”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Specified — Structures in RSF-1, RSF-2, and RSF-3 districts in unincorporated Dixie County.
“4.6.8 MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF STRUCTURES: NO PORTION SHALL EXCEED: (See also Section 4.18 for exceptions) 35 feet”
Living in an RVLimited
Occupancy of a recreational vehicle on a vacant parcel in unincorporated Dixie County.
A special exception is required.
The approval site plan must show potable water, wastewater, solid-waste collection, and electric-power sources.
The electrical power pole is limited to 60 amperages, except that a recreational vehicle within the Suwannee Water Board service area using a grinder pump may use up to 100 amperages.
The recreational vehicle must meet the flood requirements in Sections 8.13 and 8.14.2.
It must be owner-occupied and may not be used for a home occupation or business.
It must be fully licensed and ready for highway use within six hours of an emergency event, remain on wheels, use only quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and have no permanent attachments.
A 9-1-1 address must be posted and verified through the County 9-1-1 Office.
Annual inspection and applicable county recreational-vehicle inspection fees are required.
One detached accessory storage building no larger than 120 square feet is allowed.
standard electrical service limit: 60 amperage (Up to 100 amperages if within the Suwannee Water Board service area and using a grinder pump.) · accessory storage building maximum: <= 120 square feet
“A recreational vehicle permitted by special exception on a vacant parcel shall:”
Camping on your landLimited
Temporary camping in travel-trailer parks and campgrounds in unincorporated Dixie County.
The regulation applies to the construction and operation of travel-trailer parks and campgrounds.
Sites must be occupied primarily by travel trailers, pickup coaches, tents, camping trailers, and other vehicular accommodations.
Each site must be at least 1,200 square feet.
No travel trailer or other unit may be closer than 25 feet to any lot line.
minimum campsite area: >= 1200 square feet · minimum distance from lot line: >= 25 feet
“Each site in a travel trailer park or campground shall be at least twelve hundred (1,200) square feet in area.”
Tiny homesLimited
Occupying, residing or living in a tiny home in Dixie County, treated as a structure under the county's general occupancy-permit rule.
Before temporary or permanent occupancy, the required county and state permits must be obtained.
Required permits include, but are not limited to, a county building permit and septic tank permit.
Any impact fee levied by the county must be paid.
Temporary camping and occupancy of a parcel not exceeding fifteen (15) days per year is exempt from Chapter 8.
Temporary leased hunting camps located in game management areas and private hunting clubs are exempt from Chapter 8.
Individuals exercising the temporary-occupancy exemption should, when possible, notify the building inspector of the time of occupancy.
The county zoning department administers the Dixie County Zoning Ordinance and related land-use regulations; additional parcel-specific zoning, flood, septic, and building-code requirements may apply.
temporary camping or parcel occupancy exemption: <= 15 days per year (The ordinance states that temporary camping and occupancy of a parcel not exceeding fifteen (15) days per year is exempt from Chapter 8.)
“Any person prior to occupying, residing or living in [...] any structure [...] shall first obtain [...] such permits as may be [...] required from the county and state”
Manufactured homesLimited
Manufactured/mobile-home dwelling occupancy in the RMH Residential Mobile Home districts.
The RMH category includes RMH-1, RMH-2, and RMH-3 mobile-home subdivision districts.
The district is intended for mobile-home subdivision development within designated urban development areas.
RMH-2 and RMH-3 require community water systems to be available and accessible.
Applicable site-plan, anchoring, skirting, building-code, floodplain, septic, and permit requirements still apply.
minimum mobile-home subdivision site area: 10 acres · RMH-1 minimum lot area: 20000 square feet · RMH-2 minimum lot area: 10000 square feet (Community water must be available and accessible.) · RMH-3 minimum lot area: 7500 square feet (Community water must be available and accessible.)
“The "RMH" Residential, Mobile Home category includes three (3) zone districts: RMH-1, RMH-2 and RMH-3. It is the intent of these districts to provide for low to medium density mobile home subdivision development together with public and semipublic buildings and facilities and accessory structures as may be desirable and compatible with such development as well as surrounding development within the designated urban development area, as defined within the County's Comprehensive Plan. Non-residential uses in these districts may be subject to restrictions and requirements necessary to protect the residential character of these districts. The minimum size for a mobile home subdivision zone shall be ten (10) acres in order to avoid spotty development and the intermixing of conventional single family areas and mobile home subdivision areas. Variation among the RMH-1, RMH-2 and RMH-3 districts is in requirements for lot area, width, and certain yards.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Location or relocation and occupation of used mobile homes in unincorporated Dixie County.
“Before a used mobile home may be located within the County, a licensed contractor or licensed mobile home dealer must certify that the mobile home meets the definition of mobile home as stated within these Land Development Regulations and more specifically the standards a through d as provided in Section 2.1.59 of these Land Development Regulations. Before a mobile home is located within the County, or may be transferred from one parcel to another, a licensed contractor or a licensed mobile home dealer or the County Building Inspector must certify the mobile home meets the definition of mobile home as stated within these Land Development Regulations and more specifically the standards a through d as provided in Section 2.1.59 of these Land Development Regulations. In addition, the following standards shall be required to be met prior to the issuance of a County mobile home permit for any mobile homes to be located or relocated in the unincorporated area of the County. The determination of whether the mobile home meets or exceeds the following standards shall be made by the County Building Official or his/her designee upon a site visit to inspect the mobile home prior to its occupation:”
Who permits septicLocal
Onsite sewage treatment and disposal system permitting and inspections in Dixie County.
Florida DEP enforces Florida OSTDS laws and rules statewide.
The local county health department handles permitting and inspections because Dixie County is outside the 16 counties transferred to DEP for septic permitting.
“If you live outside these 16 counties, your local county health department will still handle septic system permitting and inspections.”
Septic permitRequired
Onsite sewage systems serving property in Dixie County, including residential building applications.
The Dixie County residential building checklist requires either a septic tank permit or a letter from the sewer company.
Operating permits are required for aerobic treatment units, performance-based treatment systems, commercial septic systems, and industrial or manufacturing zoned or equivalent septic systems.
The source does not establish additional county-specific fee amounts or effective dates.
“SEPTIC TANK PERMIT - OR- A LETTER FROM SEWER COMPANY”
Septic inspectionLimited
Onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems in Dixie County, Florida.
Dixie County is outside the 16 counties listed by the Florida Department of Health for transfer of septic permitting to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection; the local county health department therefore handles septic permitting and inspections.
Beginning July 1, 2022, owners or contractors with owner authorization may use a private provider to perform OSTDS inspections.
Operating permits are required for aerobic treatment units (ATU), performance based treatment systems (PBTS), commercial septic systems, and industrial or manufacturing zoned (or equivalent) septic systems, but the source states that operating permits only apply to counties that use operating permits.
private provider inspection option effective date: 2022-07-01 (Owners or contractors must have owner authorization.) · operating permit applicability: aerobic treatment units (ATU), performance based treatment systems (PBTS), commercial septic systems, and industrial or manufacturing zoned (or equivalent) septic systems (Only apply to counties that use operating permits.)
“If you live outside these 16 counties, your local county health department will still handle septic system permitting and inspections. [...] Starting July 1, 2022, owners or contractors with owner authorization, have the option to hire a private provider to perform inspections of OSTDS. [...] Only apply to counties that use operating permits. Operating permits are required for aerobic treatment units (ATU), performance based treatments systems (PBTS), commercial septic systems, and industrial or manufacturing zoned (or equivalent) septic systems.”
Agricultural exemptionConditional
Nonresidential farm buildings on farms in Dixie County flood hazard areas
The source identifies nonresidential farm buildings on farms as exempt from the Florida Building Code under Section 604.50, Florida Statutes, as amended.
Despite the building-code exemption, floodplain development permits or approvals are required for these buildings when subject to the flood-damage-prevention article.
An owner or authorized agent must apply and obtain required permits and approvals before development in a flood hazard area.
“Nonresidential farm buildings on farms, as provided in Section 604.50, Florida Statutes, as amended.”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
All subdivisions of land, as defined by the Dixie County Land Development Regulations, located in the unincorporated area of the County.
Before subdivision, the subdivider or agent must obtain final-plat approval from the Board of County Commissioners.
The approved final plat must be filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court.
Land found unsuitable because of flooding, drainage, slopes, rock formations, adverse earth formations or topography, utility easements, or other harmful features may not be subdivided or developed unless adequate corrective methods are formulated by the subdivider and approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
No building permit may be issued for a parcel or plat created after the effective date that does not conform to the regulations.
No excavation or construction of public or private improvements may begin except in conformity with the regulations.
Resubdivision affecting a public use, lot line, or certain pre-regulation maps or plans follows the same procedure, rules, and regulations as subdivision.
“These land development regulations shall apply to all subdivisions of land, as defined herein, located within the unincorporated area of the County.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in unincorporated Dixie County, including metes-and-bounds divisions made for sale, transfer, or lease.
“Whenever any subdivision of land is proposed, before any contract is made for the sale of any part thereof, and before any permit for the erection of a structure in such proposed subdivision shall be granted, the subdividing owner, or his or her authorized agent, shall apply for and secure approval of such proposed subdivision”
Driveway accessRequired
Residential building-permit checklist items in Dixie County
Driveway approval must be submitted before final power release.
City approval paperwork is also listed when the property is within city limits.
The checklist separately requires a septic tank permit or a letter from the sewer company.
“DRIVEWAY APPROVAL MUST BE SUBMITTED PRIOR TO FINAL POWER RELEASE.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Residential building permits in unincorporated Dixie County where final power release is sought.
“DRIVEWAY APPROVAL MUST BE SUBMITTED PRIOR TO FINAL POWER RELEASE.”
Building in a floodplainRequired
Any development activity within the scope of Article Eight that is wholly or partially within a flood hazard area in unincorporated Dixie County, including buildings, structures, and facilities exempt from the Florida Building Code.
The applicant must apply first to the Floodplain Administrator and, if applicable, the Building Official, and obtain required permits and approvals.
No permit or approval may issue until Article Eight and all other applicable codes and regulations are satisfied.
A floodplain development permit or approval may be required in addition to a building permit depending on the nature and extent of the development.
The written application must identify and describe the development, locate the site, state intended use and occupancy, include required site plans or construction documents, state valuation, be signed, and provide other information required by the Floodplain Administrator.
The permit becomes invalid if work is not commenced within 180 days after issuance or is suspended or abandoned for 180 days; written extensions of no more than 180 days each require justifiable cause.
Other applicable state or federal permits must be obtained before commencement, including permits from the Suwannee River Water Management District, Florida Department of Health for onsite sewage systems, Florida Department of Environmental Protection for applicable coastal or wetland activities, and federal authorities.
permit commencement deadline: 180 days (permit becomes invalid unless work commences within this period) · suspension or abandonment period: 180 days (permit becomes invalid unless a written extension is granted for justifiable cause)
“shall obtain the required permit(s) and approval(s).”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — Development subject to Dixie County's Flood Ordinance in unincorporated Dixie County, including development reviewed through building permits, site plans, and subdivision proposals.
“The Zoning Department is responsible for administering the Dixie County Zoning Ordinance and related land use regulations, such as the Flood Ordinance. The Zoning staff provides responses to the general public, land development professionals and realtors inquiring about permitted land uses and development standards. The Zoning Department enforces the ordinance through the review of building permits, site plans, and subdivision proposals.”
Limited — Development subject to floodplain regulation in unincorporated Dixie County
“County Ordinance now requires all Short Term Overnight Rental (STOR) properties to have a valid Annual County License. The application fee for this license is $200.”
Permit feesVariable (with conditions)
Zoning permits, sign permits, special-exception applications, subdivision-plat approvals, zoning amendments, variances, and other administrative relief in unincorporated Dixie County.
Fees are not stated as fixed amounts in the Land Development Regulations.
The amount is established by resolution of the Dixie County Board of County Commissioners and filed in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court.
Fees are paid upon submission of a signed application or notice of appeal.
This source does not establish the current building-permit fee schedule, plan-review fees, or inspection fees.
“The amount of the fees charged shall be as established by resolution”
Permit processPartial
Building-permit applications and residential construction permitting in unincorporated Dixie County.
Permit applications are received and accepted by Customer Service Representatives, permits are issued after review, contractor licenses and permit history are checked, and Plans Examiners review plans and related documents.
Applicants should bring the deed or contract for deed; a notarized owner authorization letter is required if the applicant is not the owner or contractor.
Incomplete residential applications will not be processed and paperwork will not be held at the office.
The residential checklist requires, as applicable, proof of ownership, signed survey, 911 address, scaled site plan, septic permit or sewer-company letter, signed application, recorded notice of commencement, two sets of engineered 130-mph plans, truss engineering, energy-code calculations, product approvals, and city approval paperwork if within city limits.
Separate permits are required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, roofing, and gas work.
“Customer Service Representatives (Permit Specialists and Permit Technicians) are responsible for receiving and accepting permit applications, issuing permits”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Published (with conditions) — Building-permit applications and plan review for construction in unincorporated Dixie County
“We also offer online step by step instructions, forms, and application packets”
Florida rules that apply here
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
Owners of property in Florida, including Dixie County, acting as their own contractor under Florida Statutes section 489.103(7).
The owner must provide direct, onsite supervision of all work not performed by licensed contractors.
The exemption covers farm outbuildings and one-family or two-family residences for the owner's occupancy or use when not offered for sale or lease.
Commercial buildings are covered only when the cost does not exceed $75,000 and the building is for the owner's occupancy or use and not offered for sale or lease.
Sale or lease, or offering for sale or lease, within one year after completion creates a presumption that the construction was undertaken for sale or lease.
The exemption also contains separate provisions for emergency roof work, certain solar projects, and completion of a substantially completed permitted project.
The exemption does not cover a person employed by or under contract with the owner who acts as a contractor.
The owner may not delegate direct supervision to another person unless that person is registered or certified and the work is within that person's license scope.
The owner must personally appear and sign the building permit application and satisfy local permitting-agency requirements proving understanding of the statutory obligations.
For qualifying solar projects submitted electronically under the statutory program, personal appearance or notarized signature is not required if the owner certifies the application and disclosure statement through the permitting agency's electronic confirmation system.
Violation may result in withheld final approval, permit revocation, or enforcement for unlicensed activity.
The exemption does not eliminate applicable building permits, building codes, zoning regulations, or other local requirements.
commercial building cost ceiling: <= 75000 USD (Only for the owner's occupancy or use and not offered for sale or lease) · presumption period after completion: 1 year (Sale or lease within this period creates a presumption of prohibited sale-or-lease intent)
“Owners of property when acting as their own contractor and providing direct, onsite supervision themselves of all work not performed by licensed contractors:”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Conditional — An owner acting as the owner's own contractor for construction, improvement, maintenance, repair, alteration, or addition to a one-family or two-family residence in Florida for the owner's own use and occupancy.
“one-family or two-family residences on such property for the occupancy or use of such owners and not offered for sale or lease”
Building code adoptedAdopted
The Florida Building Code, including construction in Dixie County; enforcement and interpretation are assigned to specified local boards or agencies.
The Florida Building Commission adopts the code by rule.
The code is deemed adopted statewide without adoption by local government.
Local governments may adopt administrative amendments subject to statutory limitations.
Local governments may adopt technical amendments solely within their jurisdictions when the statutory conditions are met.
Local technical amendments must be transmitted to the commission within 30 days after adoption and are not effective until 30 days after receipt and publication by the commission.
The code does not apply to statutory exemptions, including nonresidential farm buildings on farms and temporary construction buildings or sheds.
The edition in effect on the permit application date governs the permitted work for the life of the permit and any extension granted.
“The initial adoption of, and any subsequent update or amendment to, the Florida Building Code by the commission is deemed adopted for use statewide without adoptions by local government.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted — The Florida Building Code, 8th Edition (2023), as amended and updated by the Florida Building Commission, as the building code for the State of Florida.
“The Florida Building Code, 8th Edition (2023), as updated by the Florida Building Commission on June 20, 2023, April 16, 2024, August 13, 2024, December 10, 2024, December 20, 2024, April 15, 2025, and December 9, 2025, and incorporated herein by reference is hereby adopted as the building code for the State of Florida.”
Adopted — The Florida Building Code for public and private buildings, including residential construction, throughout Florida.
“The initial adoption of, and any subsequent update or amendment to, the Florida Building Code by the commission is deemed adopted for use statewide without adoptions by local government.”
Adopted — The Florida Building Code for public and private buildings and structures, including residential construction, throughout Florida.
“is deemed adopted for use statewide without adoptions by local government.”
Certificate of occupancyRequired
Projects using Florida’s private-provider building-code inspection process after completion of required inspections.
The applicant must submit a request for a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion, the private provider’s certificate of compliance, all other government approvals required by law, and outstanding fees.
The local building official must issue the certificate or identify incomplete forms or documents within 10 business days, or within 2 business days for a permit relating to a single-family or two-family dwelling.
If the official does not provide timely notice of incomplete forms or documents, the request is automatically granted and deemed issued on the next business day; the written certificate must then be provided within 10 days.
local official response deadline: 10 business days (2 business days for a permit relating to a single-family or two-family dwelling) · automatic issuance timing after missed deadline: next business day · written certificate after automatic issuance: 10 days
“the local building official shall issue the certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion”
Accessory dwellingsLimited
Accessory dwelling units in Florida areas zoned for single-family residential use, where the applicable county or municipality adopts an ordinance allowing them.
Florida law authorizes but does not itself require every county or municipality to allow accessory dwelling units under this section.
The unit must be an ancillary or secondary living unit with a separate kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, within the same structure or on the same lot as the primary dwelling.
A building permit application must include an affidavit that the unit will be rented at an affordable rate to an extremely-low-income, very-low-income, low-income, or moderate-income person or persons.
affordable rent and utilities: <= not more than 30 percent of applicable median adjusted gross annual income
“A local government may adopt an ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units in any area zoned for single-family residential use.”
Well permitLimited
Construction, repair, or abandonment of drinking-water wells in Florida.
The five water management districts typically oversee drinking-water well construction, repair, and abandonment.
Some water management districts delegate well permitting to county health departments or other local agencies.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection establishes statewide water-well construction requirements through section 373.309 and Chapter 62-532, F.A.C.
County health departments delegated to perform well permitting include Baker, Brevard, Broward, Clay, Miami-Dade, Flagler, Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Indian River, Lake, Marion, Martin, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Putnam, St. Lucie, Sarasota, and Volusia.
Well-contractor licensure is distinct from any construction permit requirement; licensed water-well contractors are required for persons engaging in the business of constructing, repairing, or abandoning wells.
“The construction, repair, or abandonment of drinking water wells is typically overseen by the five water management districts. Some of these districts have delegated authority to county health departments or other local agencies.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Construction, repair, or abandonment of water wells in Florida.
“Additionally, a permit must be obtained from the appropriate WMD or its delegated permitting authority prior to the construction, repair or abandonment of any water well.”
Required — Construction, repair, or abandonment of any water well statewide.
“Additionally, a permit must be obtained from the appropriate WMD or its delegated permitting authority prior to the construction, repair or abandonment of any water well.”
Mandatory utility hookupConditional
Existing onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems when an available publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system exists.
A properly functioning OSTDS, excluding an approved onsite graywater system, must connect within 365 days after written notification that the sewerage system is available.
The sewerage system must provide at least one year’s advance notice of anticipated availability and notify the owner that connection will be required within one year of actual availability.
An OSTDS needing repair or modification to function sanitarily or comply with applicable law must connect within 90 days after written notification from the department.
In hardship cases, the department may approve one extension of not more than 90 days.
A sewerage system may waive mandatory connection with department approval when connection is not required in the public interest due to public-health considerations.
A local government or water-and-sewer district may grant a variance for a properly functioning, department-permitted performance-based OSTDS, but is not required to do so in the listed protected areas.
connection deadline for properly functioning system: 365 days (After written notification of availability.) · connection deadline for system needing repair or modification: 90 days (One hardship extension of not more than 90 days may be approved.) · advance notice of anticipated availability: >= 1 year · maximum installment period for prepaid connection charges: <= 2 years · maximum hardship installment period for investor-owned sewer connection fee: <= 5 years (Requires local governing body determination of financial hardship.)
“The owner of a properly functioning onsite sewage treatment and disposal system, excluding an approved onsite graywater system, must connect the system or the building’s plumbing to an available publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system within 365 days after written notification by the owner of the publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system that the system is available for connection.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Conditional — Existing properly functioning OSTDS when a publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system becomes available, and systems needing repair or modification.
“The owner of a properly functioning onsite sewage treatment and disposal system, excluding an approved onsite graywater system, must connect the system or the building’s plumbing to an available publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system within 365 days after written notification by the owner of the publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system that the system is available for connection.”
Conditional — Existing properly functioning OSTDS when an available publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system becomes available.
“The owner of a properly functioning onsite sewage treatment and disposal system, excluding an approved onsite graywater system, must connect the system or the building’s plumbing to an available publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system within 365 days after written notification by the owner of the publicly owned or investor-owned sewerage system that the system is available for connection.”
Campground & park staysAllowed (with conditions)
Occupancy of recreational vehicles as transient accommodations in Florida recreational vehicle parks and recreational camps regulated by Chapter 513.
The park or camp must obtain a permit from the Florida Department of Health before establishment or operation.
The permit must be renewed annually.
This claim does not establish statewide private-land zoning permission outside regulated parks or camps.
park/camp permit renewal: annually
“a recreational vehicle park that rents to transient guests”
county zoning authorityGeneral
Florida counties' authority to establish, coordinate, and enforce zoning, including zoning of unincorporated county areas, subject to general and special law.
The county power is subject to general or special law.
The zoning and business regulations may not include the prohibitions in Florida Statutes § 377.8161.
This statewide authority grant does not identify a population threshold, named-county limitation, lake, military-base, reservoir, or similar geographic limitation.
“Establish, coordinate, and enforce zoning and such business regulations as are necessary for the protection of the public”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
General — Florida counties adopting and enforcing zoning regulations for county territory, including unincorporated areas.
“Establish, coordinate, and enforce zoning and such business regulations as are necessary for the protection of the public, to the extent such zoning and business regulations do not include the prohibitions in s. 377.8161.”
county building authorityGeneral
Florida counties requiring building permits and enforcing the Florida Building Code for residential and other construction within county territory outside incorporated municipalities.
The board of county commissioners may enforce the Florida Building Code and Florida Fire Prevention Code and may adopt local technical amendments at its discretion.
The authority described in § 125.56(1) applies within county territory outside the corporate limits of any municipality.
After adoption of the applicable code or amendment, construction, erection, alteration, repair, securing, or demolition requires a permit from the appropriate county authority, subject to reasonable fees.
An adopted amendment remains in force throughout the county's unincorporated area until otherwise notified by the Florida Building Commission or State Fire Marshal.
A county may provide a schedule of reasonable inspection fees and employ building-code inspectors and other necessary personnel.
“The board of county commissioners of each of the several counties of the state may enforce the Florida Building Code and the Florida Fire Prevention Code as provided in ss. 553.80, 633.206, and 633.208 and, at its discretion, adopt local technical amendments to the Florida Building Code as provided in s. 553.73(4) and local technical amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code as provided in s. 633.202 to provide for the safe construction, erection, alteration, repair, securing, and demolition of any building within its territory outside the corporate limits of any municipality.”
Inside cities and towns in Dixie County
Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.
Mandatory utility hookupWater and sewer
Public water and sewer service provided by the Suwannee Water and Sewer dependent special district to the town of Suwannee, Dixie County.
This source establishes the district's service area and service type, but does not establish a universal mandatory connection requirement or connection-fee schedule.
The claim does not apply countywide outside the town of Suwannee service area.
“Established in 1994 by the Dixie Board of County Commissioners, the Suwannee Water and Sewer is a Dependent Special District of Dixie County and provides water and sewer services to the town of Suwannee in Dixie County, Florida.”
Still unanswered
We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.
Off-grid sanitation — Off-grid sanitation methods and sanitation systems not connected to public sewer in Dixie County.
Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.
Living off-grid in Dixie County, Florida
Is Dixie County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Dixie County scores 78/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and manageable long-term carry cost.
Do you need a building permit in Dixie County, Florida?
Dixie County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Florida Department of Health in Dixie County. 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 Dixie County?
Living in an RV on your own land in Dixie County is limited to specific cases: Occupancy of a recreational vehicle on a vacant parcel in unincorporated Dixie County. A special exception is required. The approval site plan must show potable water, wastewater, solid-waste collection, and electric-power sources. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.
How much does land cost in Dixie County, Florida?
Land in Dixie County runs about $4,694 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Dixie County?
Dixie County gets about 56.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4.9% of years.
How remote is Dixie County?
A typical private-land location has about 17,861 people within 15 miles and 3,474,104 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.
