Bolthole Index

Scott County, Iowa

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Scott County, Iowa

51Index Score / 100
#66 of 99 in Iowa

Unincorporated Scott County, Iowa requires building permits for listed residential work, with limited exemptions for minor repairs, qualifying farm work and small accessory structures1. Scott County Planning & Development administers county zoning; dwelling units must have at least 640 square feet23. Incorporated cities may have separate zoning arrangements, while private septic permits throughout Scott County come from the Scott County Health Department45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for listed work in unincorporated Scott County; limited exemptions include minor repairs, qualifying agricultural work and accessory structures 120 square feet or smaller1
Zoning
Chapter 6 applies to unincorporated Scott County; city zoning arrangements vary64
Septic permit
Scott County Health Department; $235 for a new construction permit57
Minimum home size
A dwelling unit needs at least 640 square feet on a permanent foundation; a tiny home on wheels follows travel-trailer park rules38
Owner-builder
Own-property work is exempt from state contractor registration, not from local permits or inspections9
Manufactured home
Cannot be rejected solely because it is manufactured; site-built foundation, setback and size standards still apply10
Private well
Health Department well permit; $315 for private well construction11
Floodplain development
A separate permit is required in designated special flood hazard areas12

Who to call

Building permits

Scott County Planning & Development

Building permits and inspections for unincorporated Scott County, including Park View, and participating cities under intergovernmental agreements

563-326-8643

600 W. 4th St. Davenport, IA 52801-1003

Zoning

Scott County Planning & Development

Zoning ordinance and map administration for unincorporated Scott County

563-326-8643

600 W. 4th St. Davenport, IA 52801-1003

Floodplain permits

Scott County Planning & Development — Zoning Administrator

Floodplain development permits in designated special flood hazard areas

563-326-8643

600 W. 4th St. Davenport, IA 52801-1003

Septic permits

Scott County Health Department — Environmental Health Services

Private sewage disposal system and private water well programs

563-326-8618

600 W. 4th St. Davenport, IA 52801-1003

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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Do you need a building permit in Scott County, Iowa?

Scott County requires building permits for listed construction, alterations, repairs, replacements and demolition in unincorporated areas1. Decks, garages, roofing, plumbing, heating and electrical work are examples; pools at least 24 inches deep, sheds over 120 square feet and fences over 6 feet also require building permits1. Minor repairs, qualifying agricultural work and accessory structures no larger than 120 square feet are listed exemptions1. Scott County lists the 2021 building, residential, property-maintenance and pool codes and the 2015 energy code, with local amendments, plus state-adopted electrical, mechanical and plumbing codes13. Building permit fees depend on estimated work valuation; a new house has a $100 plan-review charge credited toward the building permit fee, and reinspection or additional trips cost $50 per trip14. Starting work without a required building permit adds an investigation fee equal to the permit fee15. Iowa exempts own-property work from contractor registration, but that exemption does not waive local building permits or inspections9.

Who issues building permits, zoning approval and septic permits in Scott County?

Scott County Planning & Development issues building permits and performs inspections in unincorporated Scott County, including Park View16. The office is at 600 W. 4th St. Davenport, IA 52801-1003; call 563-326-864316. Planning & Development also provides building permits and inspections for Dixon, Donahue, LeClaire, Long Grove, McCausland, Panorama Park, Princeton and Riverdale through intergovernmental agreements16. Applicants in those cities must obtain city zoning approval before submitting a county building-permit application4. Private septic and well programs remain with Scott County Health Department Environmental Health Services at 563-326-8618517. Other incorporated cities may have separate building-permit and zoning processes; county construction codes apply within cities only by city option and agreement413.

Does Scott County have zoning?

Chapter 6 governs zoning in unincorporated Scott County, and current zoning districts appear in the county GIS zoning layer218. Height limits vary by district and use, so ask Planning & Development which dimensional rules apply to the proposed home1920. Scott County dwelling units must have at least 640 square feet, be at least 20 feet wide for at least 75% of the narrowest dimension, sit on a permanent foundation and be taxed as real property3. Agricultural exemptions require the claimant to demonstrate that the property and buildings are primarily adapted and used for agriculture by a farmer; floodplain requirements still apply21. Subdivision requirements also remain relevant for agriculturally exempt land22. Durant, mainly in Cedar County but extending into Scott County, has city zoning; private septic systems in its Scott County portion remain under the Scott County Health Department2324. We could not confirm a lot-coverage limit; ask Planning & Development for the parcel’s district requirements20.

How do septic permits work in Scott County, Iowa?

Scott County Health Department, not the zoning or building office, administers the private sewage disposal system program5. A permit application is required to construct or reconstruct a system or abandon a septic tank; the construction permit costs $235, reconstruction $110 and tank abandonment $957. A construction permit requires a prior site evaluation, and a contractor approved by the health officer must install the system7. No structure intended for human occupancy may be occupied until connected to an approved sewage disposal system or another disposal method approved by the health officer25. Environmental Health Services reviews soil analysis, checks system sizing, and inspects private systems before and after installation17. The office is at 600 W. 4th St. Davenport, IA 52801-1003 and its phone number is 563-326-861817. Only about 3.1% of Scott County soils are rated “not limited” for a conventional septic drain field, so make the soil review an early feasibility step rather than assuming a standard trench system will work26. A time-of-transfer inspection costs $27527. Iowa requires a qualifying private system serving a building with one through four dwelling units to be inspected before an ownership transfer, subject to statutory exceptions28. The Health Department also reviews proposed subdivision plans for private sewage disposal and water supply22.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Scott County, Iowa?

We could not confirm whether an RV may be used as a primary residence on unincorporated Scott County land. Tent camping is allowed only in approved Travel Trailer Parks, limited to 30 consecutive days and 104 days in a calendar year, and a Travel Trailer Park requires a special use permit29. A tiny home must meet the 640-square-foot dwelling standard, permanent foundation and real-property taxation, while a tiny home that is a travel trailer falls under the travel-trailer park and temporary-mobile-home-permit rules8. A manufactured home is legally different from a towable RV: Iowa counties cannot reject a residence solely because it is manufactured, but the home must meet the same permanent-foundation, setback and minimum-size standards that apply to a site-built house on the same lot10. Iowa's county accessory-dwelling rule took effect July 1, 2026, applies where a single-family residence is an allowed principal use, and still requires compliance with applicable building rules30. Ask Planning & Development about the exact parcel and proposed use before buying or moving a unit onto the site20.

How do you build a home in Scott County, Iowa? The steps, in order

  1. Confirm the parcel’s zoning district with Scott County Planning & Development using the county GIS zoning layer18.
  2. Check floodplain status: development in designated special flood hazard areas needs a separate floodplain permit, including agriculturally exempt structures12.
  3. Arrange the septic site evaluation and soil review with Environmental Health Services before fixing the house location, and obtain the septic construction permit717.
  4. Obtain a Health Department well construction permit if using a private well11.
  5. Submit the building-permit application with a plot plan, legal description, owner/builder information, two sets of plans, engineered plans when necessary and required RES check documentation; residential review generally takes 3-5 days31.
  6. Pay the building permit fee before issuance and ask Planning & Development for the construction inspection schedule3116.
  7. Obtain Iowa Department of Transportation approval before work on an entrance onto an Iowa primary highway32.

What should you check before buying land in Scott County?

Before buying unincorporated Scott County land, confirm the zoning district, proposed use and floodplain designation with Planning & Development181220. If dividing land, ask about preliminary and final plat approval: the Planning and Zoning Commission recommends action to the Board of Supervisors, and preliminary approval lasts 12 months unless extended33. Environmental Health Services also reviews proposed subdivisions for septic systems and water supply17. Only about 3.1% of county soils are rated “not limited” for conventional septic drain fields; site evaluation is essential, and the rating does not mean septic is impossible26. A private well construction permit costs $31511. Verify road access; an entrance onto an Iowa primary highway requires state approval before work begins32. Scott County’s effective property-tax rate is about 1.5%, with a median annual bill of about $3,221; use these countywide figures for budgeting rather than as a parcel-specific quote3435.

Watch-outs

  • Scott County building permits become invalid if work does not start within 180 days or is suspended for 180 days; completion is required within 1 year unless extended36.
  • An agricultural exemption does not remove Scott County floodplain-development or subdivision requirements2122.
  • We could not confirm primary-residence RV occupancy or lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Scott County; ask Planning & Development about the parcel and proposed use20.
  • Scott County Health Department septic and well permits apply separately from county or city building permits711.

Sources

  1. Building Permit Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  2. Zoning Ordinance & Map, quoted and re-checked
  3. Zoning Ordinance for Unincorporated Scott County, quoted and re-checked
  4. Zoning Ordinance & Map, quoted and re-checked
  5. Wells & Septic, quoted and re-checked
  6. Zoning Ordinance & Map, quoted and re-checked
  7. Chapter 23 Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  8. Zoning Ordinance for Unincorporated Scott County, quoted and re-checked
  9. Iowa Code 2026, Chapter 91C — Construction Contractors (Iowa statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Iowa Code §335.30, Manufactured and modular homes (Iowa statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Wells & Septic, quoted and re-checked
  12. Floodplain Development, quoted and re-checked
  13. Chapter 5 Construction Codes, quoted and re-checked
  14. Chapter 5 Construction Codes, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Permit Applications, quoted and re-checked
  16. Scott County Planning & Development (scottcountyiowa.gov)
  17. Scott County Health Department — Environmental Health Services (scottcountyiowa.gov)
  18. Zoning Ordinance & Map, quoted and re-checked
  19. Chapter 6 — Zoning for Unincorporated Areas, quoted and re-checked
  20. Scott County Planning & Development (scottcountyiowa.gov)
  21. Chapter 5 — Construction Codes, quoted and re-checked
  22. Farmers/Ag, quoted and re-checked
  23. Durant: 165.05 Establishment of Districts (Scott County), quoted and re-checked
  24. Durant: Wells & Septic - Scott County (Scott County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Chapter 23 Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  26. 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
  27. Wells & Septic, quoted and re-checked
  28. Iowa Code §455B.172, Jurisdiction of department and local boards (Iowa statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Chapter 6 — Zoning for Unincorporated Areas, quoted and re-checked
  30. legis.iowa.gov (Iowa statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Building Permit Applications, quoted and re-checked
  32. Access Management (Iowa statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Chapter 9 — Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  34. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Chapter 5 — Construction Codes, quoted and re-checked

Written October 12, 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, Scott County has countywide zoning.

RuleScott CountyClinton CountyMuscatine CountyCedar CountyJackson CountyLouisa CountyJones County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredLimited
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Env. ServicesCounty Env. OfficeCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. Health Dept.County Public HealthCounty Env. Health Office

County locator

Scott County in Iowa

51
County map
Scott County highlighted among the Iowa counties · colored by Index score

How Scott County scores

Seclusion25100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency51100% ev.
Admin Boringness48100% ev.
Durability70100% ev.
Property Autonomy51100% ev.
Carry Cost56100% 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 →

$254kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$10,076Land / acre
37.7"Annual rain
4.2% of yrsSevere drought
4.4 / yr (+4.2)Mid-century 100°F days
14.3 daysMid-century dry spell
1.8" (+9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.76×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,568Home insurance / yr
2.5% / yrInsurance growth
0.86%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
309,744People within 30 min
2,515,407People within 2 hr
222,979Radius comparison (15 mi)
380.4People / sq mi
1.4%Federal land
91.6%Land at 15% slope or less
3.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
8,567 acWorkable land screen
15.4%Wooded land
38.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
49.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Scott 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.

Not yet researched: Bettendorf · Blue Grass · Buffalo · Dixon · Donahue · Long Grove · Maysville · McCausland · New Liberty · Panorama Park · Princeton · Riverdale

Answers from the rulebook for Scott County

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

Scott County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New houses, additions, and other work for which a permit is required under Scott County Chapter 5.

    • A $100 plan-review charge applies to a new house and is deducted from the building permit fee.
    • The building permit fee must be paid before issuance.
    • Work begun without a required permit is subject to a special investigation fee equal to the permit fee.
    • Agricultural structures and incorporated municipalities may be subject to the Chapter 5 limitations.

    new-house plan review fee: 100 USD (deducted from building permit fee) · permit validity: 1 year (subject to applicable code requirements)

    “To obtain a building permit for a new house or addition to a house several items must be filed and reviewed.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Listed construction, installation, alteration, repair, replacement, and demolition work in unincorporated Scott County.
      “Some construction does not need a building permit from this office: An Agriculturally-Exempt Farmer. Minor repairs and replacements. Small accessory structures 120 square feet or smaller. The following need a permit:”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Scott County International Construction Code in unincorporated areas.

    • The adopted codes may be deleted, modified, or amended by Chapter 5.
    • The more restrictive requirement applies in conflicts.
    • Chapter 5 states there is no wholesale adoption of the Iowa State Building Code.

    International Building Code edition: 2015 · International Residential Code edition: 2015 · National Electrical Code edition: 2014

    “The International Building Code 2015 Edition, International Energy Conservation Code 2015 Edition, International Residential Code Edition 2015, National Electrical Code 2014 Edition, International Property Maintenance Code 2015 Edition, International Mechanical Code 2015 Edition, Uniform Plumbing Code 2015 Edition, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code 2015 Edition and related codes as referenced, are hereby adopted in full except for such portions as may hereinafter be deleted, modified, or amended.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction codes administered by Scott County Planning and Development in unincorporated Scott County and specified 28E cities.
      “2021 IBC, IRC, IPMC, and ISPSC, and 2015 IECC, as amended per Scott County Code of Ordinances Chapter 5 "Construction Codes" ; and the NEC, IMC, and UPC as adopted and amended per State Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction in Scott County areas administered under Chapter 5.
      “2021 IBC, IRC, IPMC, and ISPSC, and 2015 IECC, as amended per Scott County Code of Ordinances Chapter 5 "Construction Codes"; and the NEC, IMC, and UPC as adopted and amended per State Code.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning regulation in unincorporated Scott County.

    • The ordinance does not apply within incorporated city areas except at the option of the city and in accordance with an agreement with the County.
    • Chapter 6 is the county zoning ordinance for unincorporated areas.
    “Zoning Ordinance for Unincorporated Scott County.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning in unincorporated Scott County.
      “Chapter 6 of the Scott County Code is also known as the Zoning Ordinance for Unincorporated Scott County.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning regulation in unincorporated Scott County.
      “Chapter 6 of the Scott County Code is also known as the Zoning Ordinance for Unincorporated Scott County.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of unincorporated county zoning and incorporated municipal zoning in Scott County.

    • Scott County administers Chapter 6 in unincorporated areas; incorporated municipalities may have separate zoning ordinances and permitting processes.
    “Prior to submitting for county building permits for work in the cities of Dixon, Donahue, LeClaire, Long Grove, McCausland, Panorama Park, Princeton, and Riverdale, please contact the respective city to obtain zoning approval of the proposed construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Scott County, including unincorporated county territory and incorporated municipalities.
      “Prior to submitting for county building permits for work in the cities of Dixon, Donahue, LeClaire, Long Grove, McCausland, Panorama Park, Princeton, and Riverdale, please contact the respective city to obtain zoning approval of the proposed construction.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Official zoning districts and map for unincorporated Scott County.

    • The zoning map is maintained digitally and may be amended through approved rezoning requests.
    • The county directs users to the GIS map and zoning layer for current classifications.
    • Chapter 6 states that the Official Zoning Map is part of the ordinance by reference.
    “Current zoning district classifications are viewable as a layer in the County's GIS map.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Zoning district classifications and map for unincorporated Scott County.
      “Current zoning district classifications are viewable as a layer in the County's GIS map.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Dwelling units in unincorporated Scott County.

    • The definition requires permanent foundation and taxation as real property in addition to the dimensional requirements.

    minimum floor area: >= 640 square feet · minimum width: >= 20 feet (for at least 75% of narrowest dimension)

    “A dwelling unit shall have a floor area of at least 640 square feet, have a minimum width of 20 feet for at least 75% of its narrowest dimension, and be placed on permanent foundation, and be taxed as real property.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Maximum building heights in unincorporated zoning districts.

    • Maximum height varies by district and use.
    • Public buildings, hospitals, institutions, and schools may reach 60 feet and churches 80 feet subject to the stated setback formula.
    • Communication towers require Special Use Permit review.

    example maximum height: 35 feet (district-specific example) · public building maximum height: <= 60 feet (must be set back at least one foot for each foot above ordinary district height) · church maximum height: <= 80 feet (must be set back at least one foot for each foot above ordinary district height)

    “Public buildings, hospitals, institutions, or schools, when permitted in a District, may be erected to a height not exceeding sixty (60) feet, and churches may be erected to a height not exceeding eighty (80) feet if the building is set back from each yard line at least one (1) foot for each foot of additional height above the height limit otherwise provided in the District in which the building is located.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Tent camping in approved Travel Trailer Parks.

    • Tent sites may be included only in approved Travel Trailer Parks.
    • Tent sites have the same maximum location requirements as travel trailers: no more than 30 consecutive days and no more than 104 days per calendar year.
    • Travel Trailer Parks require a Special Use permit.

    maximum consecutive camping period: <= 30 days · maximum annual camping period: <= 104 days per calendar year

    “Travel Trailer Parks may contain a limited number of tent/tent camping sites. Such tent sites are subject to the same maximum location requirements as travel trailers; no more than 30 consecutive days, and no more than 104 days in a calendar year.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny homes proposed as dwelling units in unincorporated Scott County.

    • A dwelling unit must have at least 640 square feet, be at least 20 feet wide for at least 75% of its narrowest dimension, be on a permanent foundation, and be taxed as real property.
    • A tiny home that is a travel trailer is subject to the travel-trailer park and temporary-mobile-home-permit rules.

    minimum dwelling floor area: >= 640 square feet · minimum dwelling width: >= 20 feet (for at least 75% of its narrowest dimension)

    “A dwelling unit shall have a floor area of at least 640 square feet, have a minimum width of 20 feet for at least 75% of its narrowest dimension, and be placed on permanent foundation, and be taxed as real property.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Private sewage disposal systems in Scott County.

    • The Iowa Department of Natural Resources regulates public sewer systems and samples private sewage systems with open discharges under DNR regulation.
    • Scott County Health Department administers the private-system program.
    “In Scott County, the Health Department works to assure that standards are met for these private systems.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Private wells and private sewage disposal systems in Scott County.
      “In Scott County, the Health Department works to assure that standards are met for these private systems.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, reconstruction, alteration affecting treatment or disposal, or abandonment of private sewage systems in Scott County.

    • Repairs that do not change treatment or disposal are exempt, but discharge restrictions still apply.
    • Applications require owner, address, and requested technical information, including percolation or soil-analysis results.
    • Construction permits require a prior site evaluation.
    • Private sewage systems must be installed by a contractor approved by the health officer.

    construction permit fee: 235 USD · reconstruction permit fee: 110 USD · tank abandonment permit fee: 95 USD

    “Any person, agent, firm, or corporation desiring to construct, or reconstruct a sewage disposal system, including a vault type privy, or to abandon a septic tank, shall file with the health officer an application for a permit”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Private sewage disposal systems in Scott County.

    • The Health Department conducts inspections before and after PSDS installation.
    • Time-of-transfer inspections apply to homes/buildings served by septic systems before sale or deed transfer.
    • The Chapter 23 fee schedule includes a $275 time-of-transfer inspection fee.

    time-of-transfer inspection fee: 275 USD

    “Conduct inspections prior to and after installation of PSDS.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Sanitation for buildings not connected to public sewer in Scott County.

    • An approved private sewage disposal system or other health-officer-approved method is required.
    • No structure intended for human occupancy may be occupied until connected to an approved sewage disposal system or other approved disposal method.
    “No structure intended for human occupancy shall be occupied until it is connected to an approved sewage disposal system or other method of sewage disposal as approved by the health officer.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction, installation, reconstruction, and plugging of private wells in Scott County.

    • The County Health Department regulates private wells, including water, geothermal, and irrigation wells.
    • Fees vary by permit type; the County page lists construction, sandpoint, plugging, and rehabilitation fees.

    private well construction permit fee: 315 USD · sandpoint permit fee: 150 USD (driven) · well plugging permit fee: 15 USD · well rehabilitation permit fee: 15 USD

    “The Iowa DNR Permit Fee is included in the construction permit. SCHD will forward payment to the Iowa DNR.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Farmers and buildings primarily adapted and used for agricultural purposes.

    • The person claiming the exemption must demonstrate that the property and buildings are primarily adapted and used for agricultural purposes by a farmer.
    • The exemption does not apply to the extent necessary to implement floodplain provisions in Section 6.18.
    • The building permit page separately identifies an agriculturally-exempt farmer as exempt from some building permits.
    “Also, except to the extent required to implement Section 6.18 of the Scott County Code (General Provisions of the Floodplain Districts) no provisions of this Chapter shall be construed to apply to farm houses, farm barns, farm outbuildings, or other buildings or structures which are primarily adapted, by reason of nature and area for use for agricultural purposes as defined by Section 6-5 of the Scott County Code (Zoning Definitions). It shall be the responsibility of any person or group claiming that certain property is entitled to exemption on the basis of this Section to demonstrate that the property and buildings are primarily adapted and used for agricultural purposes by a farmer.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Agriculturally exempt farmers and agricultural uses in Scott County.
      “Except to the extent required to implement Sections 6.21 through 6-24 (Floodplain Regulations), no regulation adopted under the provisions of this Ordinance shall be construed to apply to farm land, farm houses, farm barns, farm outbuildings, or other buildings or structures which are primarily adapted, by reason of nature and area for use for agricultural purposes, while so used.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision preliminary and final plat approval in Scott County.

    • The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends action to the Board of Supervisors.
    • The Board must act within 30 days after receiving the recommendation; failure to act causes preliminary-plat disapproval.
    • Preliminary approval lasts 12 months unless extended.
    • Final plats must comply with Chapter 354 of the Iowa Code.

    Board action deadline: 30 days (after receipt of Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation) · preliminary plat approval duration: 12 months (unless extended)

    “The Board of Supervisors shall approve or disapprove the Preliminary Plat at a regular meeting within thirty (30) days after receipt of a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission. If the Board of Supervisors does not act within thirty (30) days, the Preliminary Plat shall be deemed to be disapproved.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and subdivision-plan review in unincorporated Scott County.
      “Reviews proposed subdivision plans and provides direction concerning PSDS and water supply.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas in unincorporated Scott County.

    • All structures, including agriculturally exempt structures, are subject to floodplain development standards.
    • Applications may require review and comment by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and/or Iowa Department of Natural Resources depending on location and circumstances.
    • The application fee is $30.

    application fee: 30 USD

    “Any development in designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (as identified by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency) must apply for a Floodplain Development Permit.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Scott County building permits and private sewage/private-well permits.

    • Building permit fees are based on estimated work valuation.
    • Governmental, charitable, religious, and nonprofit organizations receive a 50% building permit-fee discount.
    • Reinspection and additional-trip fees are $50 per trip.
    • Residential siding and roofing permits are $50; demolition is $50; permit renewal or extension is one-half of the original fee, not less than $50.
    • The public septic-fee page states it is effective December 2017.

    new-house plan review fee: 100 USD (deducted from building permit fee) · reinspection/additional trip fee: per 50 USD (trip) · septic construction permit fee: 235 USD · private well construction permit fee: 315 USD

    “Before a building permit is issued, the inspection and/or other fee(s) shall be paid. The following fees are determined for a building permit, based on the estimated value of the work.”
  • Permit processPartial

    County building and development permit process.

    • Building permit applications are subject to the listed exemptions and required-work categories.
    • A permit becomes invalid unless work begins within 180 days, work is not suspended or abandoned for 180 days, and work is completed within one year; extensions may be issued for 180 days for one-half the original fee or a set fee determined by the Building Official.
    • Work begun without a required permit requires a special investigation before issuance and an investigation fee equal to the permit fee.

    permit commencement deadline: 180 days · permit completion deadline: 1 year · extension period: 180 days (for one-half original permit fee or set fee)

    “Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance date, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. All work shall be completed in one (1) year of the issuance date. The building official is authorized to issue extensions of 180 days for one half the original permit fee or a set fee determined by the building official on the work left to be completed.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County building-permit applications for new houses, additions, and related work.
      “In most cases, the review of the building and site plans can be completed in 3-5 days. Commercial types of construction may take seven to ten days.”
    • Published — County building-permit application process for new houses and additions.
      “When applying for a building permit, please submit the following:”

Iowa rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A person performing work or having work performed on the person's own property, for purposes of Iowa Code chapter 91C contractor registration.

    • The exemption is from being treated as a contractor for purposes of chapter 91C; it is not stated to waive building permits, building-code compliance, inspections, or certificates of occupancy.
    • The separate annual-earnings threshold is less than $2,000, but the own-property exemption is stated independently.
    • A contractor doing business in Iowa must register under chapter 91C unless an applicable statutory exclusion applies.
    “However, a person who earns less than two thousand dollars annually or who performs work or has work performed on the person’s own property is not a contractor for purposes of this chapter.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Buildings and structures subject to Iowa Code section 103A.10A, including newly constructed state-owned buildings, state-board-of-regents buildings, and certain state-funded buildings.

    • Newly constructed state-owned buildings and structures subject to the state building code are subject to plan review and inspection, excluding renovations and repairs except as provided by statute.
    • Newly constructed buildings owned by the state board of regents are subject to plan review and inspection, excluding renovations and repairs except as provided by statute.
    • State-funded buildings not wholly owned by the state are subject to state plan review and inspection when the governmental subdivision has not adopted the listed codes or does not perform inspections; otherwise they must comply with the local codes and inspections.
    • For ordinary privately owned construction, inspection administration is governed by the applicable local law or ordinance.
    “All newly constructed buildings or structures subject to the state building code, including any addition, but excluding any renovation or repair of such a building or structure, owned by the state or an agency of the state, except as provided in subsection 2, shall be subject to a plan review and inspection by the commissioner or an independent building inspector appointed by the commissioner.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Certificates of occupancy or use for buildings subject to Iowa's State Building Code and certificates approving specified buildings, facilities, or installations for licensure.

    • A local building department issues certificates of occupancy or use when required by ordinance.
    • When issued for a building constructed under the state building code, the certificate must certify conformity with the code and is in the form prescribed by the governing body of the governmental subdivision.
    • For facilities governed by Iowa Administrative Code chapter 481.280, if a certificate of occupancy is required for use, it will not be issued until the inspection fee is paid.
    • Chapter 481.280.5 applies to a certificate approving a building, facility, or installation for occupancy upon request from an owner or owner's agency when applicable rules are satisfied and all fees are paid.
    • The state sources do not require a certificate of occupancy for every building statewide.

    additional reinspection fee: 125 USD (Applies for each additional reinspection after the initial reinspection when original deficiencies remain uncorrected.)

    “Issue certificates of occupancy or use, permits, licenses, and other documents in connection with the construction of buildings or structures as may be required by ordinance. (1) A certificate of occupancy or use for a building or structure constructed in accordance with the provisions of the state building code shall certify that the building or structure conforms to the requirements of the code. The certificate shall be in the form the governing body of the governmental subdivision prescribes.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Minimum-lot-size requirements administered through county zoning districts in Iowa, where county zoning has been adopted.

    • County zoning is optional under §335.1.
    • Local zoning districts may have different regulations.
    • A variance may be available only under the statutory practical-difficulties requirements.
    “Area, dimensional, or other numerical limitations subject to variances include but are not limited to requirements for minimum lot size, setbacks, yard widths, height, bulk, sidewalks, fencing, signage, and off-street parking. To receive the requested area, dimensional, or other numerical variance, the property owner must prove that the practical difficulties faced are unique to the property at issue and not self-created and must also demonstrate that granting the variance will not significantly alter the essential character of the surrounding neighborhood.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Setback requirements administered through Iowa county zoning districts, where adopted.

    • County zoning powers apply only to land and structures outside the corporate limits of any city.
    • Local district regulations may differ by district.
    • Agricultural-use structures and floodplain activities are subject to the exceptions and conditions in §335.2.
    “Subject to section 335.2, the board of supervisors may by ordinance regulate and restrict the height, number of structures, and size of buildings and other structures, the percentage of lot that may be occupied, the size of yards, courts, and other open spaces, the density of population, and the location and use of buildings, structures, and land for trade, industry, residence, or other purposes, and may regulate, restrict, and prohibit the use for residential purposes of tents, trailers, and portable or potentially portable structures. However, such powers shall be exercised only with reference to land and structures located within the county but lying outside of the corporate limits of any city.”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lot-coverage limits administered through Iowa county zoning districts, where adopted.

    • County zoning powers apply only outside city corporate limits.
    • The statute authorizes regulation of the percentage of a lot occupied but does not state a statewide percentage.
    • Agricultural-use and floodplain exceptions in §335.2 apply.
    “the percentage of lot that may be occupied”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Placement and residential occupancy of manufactured homes under county zoning statewide in Iowa

    • A county may not disallow the proposed residential structure solely because it is a manufactured home.
    • The home must be located and installed under the same standards applicable to a site-built single-family dwelling on the same lot, including permanent foundation, setback, and minimum square footage standards.
    • The home must be assessed and taxed as a site-built dwelling.
    • A county may not require an incompatible perimeter foundation system and may not require more than one permanent foundation system.
    • Outside a manufactured home community or mobile home park, requirements may ensure visual compatibility of the permanent foundation system with surrounding residential structures.
    • Recorded restrictive covenants are not abrogated.
    • Counties may regulate transportation, water, sewerage, and other land development; the statute also bars width standards greater than twenty-four feet and certain design standards when federal standards are met.

    maximum mandated width standard: <= 24 feet (if the housing otherwise complies with 42 U.S.C. §5403)

    “A county shall not adopt or enforce zoning regulations or other ordinances which disallow the plans and specifications of a proposed residential structure solely because the proposed structure is a manufactured home. However, a zoning ordinance or regulation shall require that a manufactured home be located and installed according to the same standards, including but not limited to a permanent foundation system, set-back, and minimum square footage, which would apply to a site-built, single family dwelling on the same lot, and shall require that the home is assessed and taxed as a site-built dwelling.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    City regulation of accessory dwelling units statewide in Iowa, within a zoning district where a single-family residence is an allowed principal use

    • At least one accessory dwelling unit must be allowed on the same lot as a single-family residence.
    • The accessory dwelling unit must comply with applicable building regulations under chapter 103A.
    • The unit may not exceed 1,000 square feet or 50 percent of the size of the single-family residence, whichever is larger; unfinished basements are excluded from the size calculation.
    • Historic-building-code restrictions, deed restrictions, and common-interest-community rules may limit or prohibit construction or use.
    • A manufactured or mobile home used as the accessory dwelling unit must be converted to real property by placement on a permanent foundation and assessed for real-estate taxes under section 435.26.
    • A historic-preservation area may regulate the unit to the extent the city or commission determines it incongruous and records its reasons.
    • Effective July 1, 2026.

    maximum accessory dwelling unit size: 1,000 square feet or 50% of the single-family residence, whichever is larger (unfinished basements excluded from the size calculation)

    “A city shall allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit on the same lot as a single family residence within a zoning district where a single family residence is an allowed principal use, in accordance with the following conditions:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — County regulation of accessory dwelling units statewide in Iowa, within a zoning district where a single-family residence is an allowed principal use
      “A county shall allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit on the same lot as a single family residence within a zoning district where a single family residence is an allowed principal use, in accordance with the following conditions:”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Iowa counties may adopt zoning ordinances for land and structures within the county but outside the corporate limits of any city.

    • Chapter 335 applies to any Iowa county at the option of its board of supervisors.
    • The zoning power is subject to Iowa Code section 335.2: ordinances generally do not apply to agricultural land, farm houses, farm barns, farm outbuildings, or other structures primarily adapted for agricultural purposes while so used, except that ordinances may apply to structures, buildings, dams, obstructions, deposits, or excavations in or on river or stream floodplains.
    • A county may not require an application, approval, or fee for an ordinance to be deemed inapplicable to qualifying agricultural land or structures.
    • A county may not regulate, restrict, or prohibit the location of permanent buildings or temporary structures used for consumer-fireworks sales pursuant to section 10A.519 in locations zoned commercial or industrial.
    • The board of supervisors may divide the county into zoning districts, and regulations may differ among districts.
    • Regulations and restrictions require public-hearing and notice procedures under sections 335.6 and 331.305; district boundaries must identify the affected township and section and, if possible, streets or roads.
    • Energy-conservation and solar-access objectives do not require zoning in a county that did not have zoning before July 1, 1981.
    “applicable to any county [...] at the option of the board of supervisors [...] outside of the corporate limits of any city.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Iowa counties may adopt, administer, and enforce county building codes and may administer and enforce the state building code for buildings, including residential construction, in county jurisdiction outside incorporated municipalities, subject to statutory limitations.

    • A county building code may not apply within the incorporated area of a city except at the city's option.
    • A county building code may not apply within a city's two-mile limit under Iowa Code §414.23 to the extent the city has adopted a building code within that two-mile limit.
    • A county building code may not apply to farm houses or other farm buildings primarily adapted for agricultural purposes while so used or under construction for that use.
    • Administration and enforcement are conducted as prescribed by local law or ordinance.
    • The state building code applies in a governmental subdivision only after the governing body adopts an ordinance accepting it and files a certified copy with the commissioner; the ordinance fixes the effective date, which must be no more than six months after adoption.
    • A local building department may prohibit commencement of construction until a permit is issued after showing compliance with applicable state building-code provisions.
    • Thermal-efficiency energy-conservation standards apply to construction containing heated or cooled enclosed space, but the commissioner must provide appropriate exceptions where applying an energy-conservation requirement would be impractical.
    “The power to adopt, administer, and enforce the state building code shall be exercised in accordance with chapter 103A. The power to adopt by ordinance, administer, and enforce a county building code, is subject to the following restrictions: a. A county building code shall not apply within the incorporated area of a city except at the option of the city, and shall not apply within a city’s two-mile limit referred to in section 414.23, to the extent that the city has adopted a building code within the two-mile limit. b. A county building code shall not apply to farm houses or other farm buildings which are primarily adapted for use for agricultural purposes, while so used or under construction for that use.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and sewer connection requirements for development in Scott County.
  • Driveway access — Driveway or road-access requirements for development in unincorporated Scott County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in unincorporated Scott 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 Scott County, Iowa

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

Scott County scores 51/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: about 309,744 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Scott County, Iowa?

Scott County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Scott County Health Department (Private Sewage Disposal System Program). 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.

How much does land cost in Scott County, Iowa?

Land in Scott County runs about $10,076 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Scott County?

Scott County gets about 37.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4.2% of years.

How remote is Scott County?

A representative private-land location has about 309,744 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,515,407 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Scott compares in Iowa

Compare side-by-side →See all 99 Iowa counties ranked →