Bolthole Index

Union County, Iowa

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

72Index Score / 100
#9 of 99 in Iowa

Unincorporated Union County, Iowa requires floodplain permits for new or substantially improved structures in floodplains; general residential building permits elsewhere remain unconfirmed1. Union County has no general county zoning, but airport controls apply in the airport zoning area23. Inside Creston, the city handles building permits and zoning; Union County Environmental Health handles private septic systems and covered private-well permits countywide4567.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for new or substantially improved structures in a floodplain; general permitting outside floodplains is unconfirmed1
Zoning
No general county zoning; Creston has city zoning and the airport zoning area has specialized controls253
Septic permit
Required before construction; the $250 fee includes two inspections89
Septic soils
0% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field10
Well permit
Required for covered new and replacement private wells through Union County Environmental Health7
Driveway/entrance permit
Required for any new or widened entrance onto a county secondary road11
Floodplain permit
Required before development in a mapped flood hazard area12
Accessory dwelling unit
At least one qualifying unit allowed with a single-family home, subject to statewide conditions13

Who to call

Septic permits

Union County Environmental Health

Septic (private sewage disposal) permits and inspections, and private well construction permits, for Union County

(641) 782-7803

unioncountyeh@gmail.com

705 E. Taylor Street, Creston, Iowa 50801

Floodplain permits

Union County Emergency Management Agency

Administers the county Floodplain Development Permit as the Floodplain Administrator

(641) 782-1622

coord@ucema.org

705 E Taylor St., PO Box 277, Creston, Iowa 50801

Roads & driveways

Union County Engineer's Office

Issues entrance/driveway permits for new or widened access points onto Union County secondary roads

(641) 782-7417

cboehmer@unioncountyiowa.gov

1701 Commerce Road, Creston, Iowa 50801

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

Off-grid gear

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

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

Union County requires a floodplain permit for new or significantly improved structures in a floodplain1. Outside floodplains in unincorporated Union County, we could not confirm a general residential building permit or local adoption of the full state building code; ask the Board of Supervisors before construction14. Iowa energy-conservation provisions cover heated or cooled enclosed construction, subject to exceptions, and lighting-efficiency provisions apply statewide15. State-funded buildings require state plan review and inspection when the local jurisdiction lacks the specified codes or inspections16. Inside Creston, the city issues applicable building permits; private septic and covered well permits remain with Union County Environmental Health467.

Who issues building permits and septic permits in Union County?

We could not confirm a Union County office for general residential building permits outside floodplains or a county certificate-of-occupancy requirement; ask the Board of Supervisors1417. Union County Emergency Management administers floodplain development permits1218. Union County Environmental Health administers private sewage-disposal rules and issues covered private-well construction permits throughout the county19720. Larger public sewage systems fall primarily to Iowa DNR21. The Union County Engineer’s Office issues entrance permits for new or widened access onto secondary roads2223.

Does Union County have zoning?

Union County has no general county zoning, but that does not resolve residential setbacks, minimum lot size or minimum dwelling size; ask the Board of Supervisors about the parcel and separate county ordinances2. Inside Creston, the city sets zoning; private septic and covered well permits remain with Union County Environmental Health52467. Airport-specific zoning applies in the Creston Municipal Airport zoning area; we could not confirm the height limits or parcel boundaries3. Iowa generally exempts qualifying agricultural land and structures from county zoning, though floodplain rules can apply25. Qualifying public agricultural experiences on primarily agricultural-production property are exempt from county conditional-use permits, special-use permits, special exceptions and variances26.

How do septic permits work in Union County?

Union County Environmental Health requires a septic permit before construction or reconstruction, a professional soil analysis or percolation test, and a county site evaluation before issuing approval to build8. The $250 permit is nonrefundable and nontransferable, includes two construction inspections, and each additional inspection costs $509. Union County soil data rates 0% of soils as free of severe limitations for conventional drain fields, so establish site feasibility before choosing the house location10. Keep the system open for inspection, give Environmental Health at least 24 hours’ notice Monday–Friday before final inspection, and obtain approval before operation27. Owners may self-install with proof of at least 6 credit hours of wastewater training within the previous 12 months, while retaining responsibility for compliance28.

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

We could not confirm residential RV use, temporary camping or tiny-home occupancy rules for unincorporated Union County; ask the Board of Supervisors before buying for those purposes. Creston prohibits residential or temporary-camping use of RVs, subject to stated exceptions2930. Iowa requires counties to allow at least one qualifying accessory dwelling unit beside a single-family home, subject to building regulations and statutory conditions13. Creston permits manufactured dwellings only under certification, foundation, real-property conversion, utility and occupancy conditions31. Off-grid sanitation still needs approval: holding tanks are limited to qualifying sites or seasonal or sporadic use, and vault toilets must meet construction and disposal rules32.

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

  1. Ask the Board of Supervisors whether a general building permit, inspection or certificate of occupancy applies to the parcel; Iowa has no universal process for ordinary private homes3317.
  2. Confirm soil suitability and obtain the septic permit from Union County Environmental Health before construction820.
  3. Obtain a private-well construction permit from Environmental Health before drilling a covered new or replacement well720.
  4. Apply to the County Engineer before adding or widening access to a secondary road; a county-installed dry-fill entrance costs $500, while one requiring a culvert costs $1,000 plus the culvert3423.
  5. Obtain a floodplain permit before covered development in a regulated floodplain1218.
  6. Keep the septic system exposed for inspection and obtain Environmental Health approval before operation27.

What to check before you buy land in Union County

Before planning septic, ask Union County Environmental Health whether public sewer is available: private systems cannot be installed, repaired or rehabilitated where public treatment is available or an ordinance requires connection35. The 200-foot availability test depends on the lot and sewer facilities, and the administrative authority makes the final determination35. Covered private-well construction permits also come from Environmental Health720. Before dividing land, ask the Board of Supervisors which governing body reviews the subdivision plat; applicable review and approval must precede recording36. Check floodplain status with Emergency Management and new or widened secondary-road access with the County Engineer1211. Union County’s effective property-tax rate is about 1.8%, its median annual bill is about $2,108, and farmland averages about $5,970 per acre373839.

Watch-outs

  • Do not treat Union County as a no-permit county: floodplain permits are required for covered structures, while general residential permitting outside floodplains remains unconfirmed1.
  • Union County soil ratings show severe limitations for conventional septic drain fields; a professional soil analysis or percolation test is required before septic permit issuance108.
  • Creston prohibits residential or temporary-camping use of an RV, while the rule for unincorporated Union County remains unconfirmed2930.

Sources

  1. Union County Emergency Management – Union County, Iowa, quoted and re-checked
  2. Union County Board of Supervisors Regular Session, July 20, 2020, quoted and re-checked
  3. Ordinances – Union County, Iowa, quoted and re-checked
  4. Creston: official source (Union County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Creston: Chapter 166 Zoning Code — Zoning Districts (Union County), quoted and re-checked
  6. Union County Environmental Health, quoted and re-checked
  7. Private Well Construction Permits, quoted and re-checked
  8. Wastewater (Septic) Treatment Installation Guide for Homeowners, quoted and re-checked
  9. Application for Installation of Onsite Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  10. 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
  11. Union County Entrance Application and Entrance Policy, quoted and re-checked
  12. Union County Emergency Management, quoted and re-checked
  13. Chapter 38 — Accessory Dwelling Units — Regulation by Counties and Cities, quoted and re-checked
  14. 2026 Iowa Code, Chapter 103A — State Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  15. Iowa Code Chapter 103A — State Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  16. Iowa Code §103A.10A — Plan reviews and inspections, quoted and re-checked
  17. Iowa Code chapter 103A — State Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  18. Union County Emergency Management Agency (unioncountyiowa.gov)
  19. Union County Environmental Health, quoted and re-checked
  20. Union County Environmental Health (unioncountyiowa.gov)
  21. Union County Environmental Health, quoted and re-checked
  22. Union County Entrance Application and Entrance Policy, quoted and re-checked
  23. Union County Engineer's Office (unioncountyiowa.gov)
  24. Creston Zoning Map, quoted and re-checked
  25. Iowa Code 2026, Chapter 335 — County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  26. Iowa Code 2026, §335.28 — Agricultural experiences, quoted and re-checked
  27. Application for Installation of Onsite Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  28. Application for Installation of Onsite Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  29. 168.10 MANUFACTURED DWELLINGS, quoted and re-checked
  30. 168.10 MANUFACTURED DWELLINGS, quoted and re-checked
  31. 168.10 MANUFACTURED DWELLINGS, quoted and re-checked
  32. Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 567.69 — Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  33. Iowa Code 2026, Chapter 103A — State Building Code (Iowa statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  34. Union County Entrance Application and Entrance Policy, quoted and re-checked
  35. Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 567.69 — Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  36. Iowa Code 2026, Chapter 354 — Platting—Division and Subdivision of Land, quoted and re-checked
  37. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  38. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  39. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data

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

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Union County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleUnion CountyRinggold CountyAdams CountyClarke CountyAdair CountyMadison CountyTaylor County
Building permitLimitedNot requiredRequiredRequiredNot requiredRequiredNot required
County zoningNoNoYesYesNoYesNo
Septic permitsCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. HealthCounty Sanitation Dept.

County locator

Union County in Iowa

72
County map
Union County highlighted among the Iowa counties · colored by Index score

How Union County scores

Seclusion72100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency51100% ev.
Admin Boringness86100% ev.
Durability49100% ev.
Property Autonomy51100% ev.
Carry Cost67100% ev.

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

$164kTypical home
1.8%Property tax
$5,970Land / acre
36.6"Annual rain
6.7% of yrsSevere drought
6.2 / yr (+5.4)Mid-century 100°F days
17.3 daysMid-century dry spell
2" (+9.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.77×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,903Home insurance / yr
5.5% / yrInsurance growth
1.59%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
11,487People within 30 min
1,048,820People within 2 hr
14,538Radius comparison (15 mi)
28.1People / sq mi
0.2%Federal land
92.6%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
14.5%Wooded land
39.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
49.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Union 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: Afton · Arispe · Cromwell · Lorimor · Shannon City · Thayer

Answers from the rulebook for Union County

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

Union County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Any new structure or significantly improved structure located in a floodplain in Union County, Iowa.

    • A floodplain permit is required for any new structure or significantly improved structure in a floodplain.
    • The source does not establish a general countywide residential building-permit requirement outside floodplains.
    “Floodplain Permit – A permit is required for any new structures or significantly improved structures in a floodplain.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A property owner who constructs the property's on-site wastewater system without using a listed registered Union County septic contractor.

    • The owner assumes liability and responsibility for the newly constructed on-site wastewater system.
    • The owner must follow all Iowa Administrative Code 567 chapter 69 requirements.
    • The owner must follow all local policies of the Union County Board of Health.
    • The owner must pay an additional inspection fee if more than two inspections are required.
    • All wastewater-system parts under construction must be exposed at inspection.
    • The owner must show proof of at least 6 credit hours in on-site wastewater systems taken within the 12 months before construction begins.
    • This is a septic-system self-installation condition and does not establish an owner-builder exemption for general new residential building construction.

    additional inspection fee: 50 USD per additional inspection (Applies when more than two inspections are required) · owner education: >= 6 credit hours (Must be taken within the 12 months before construction begins)

    “IF OWNER PLANS TO INSTALL THEIR OWN SYSTEM, YOU MUST SHOW PROOF OF AT LEAST 6 CREDIT HOURS”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    General county zoning administration by Union County, as described in the July 20, 2020 Board of Supervisors minutes.

    • The statement appears in a discussion of Wind Turbine Ordinance #73 and a proposed hold on additional requests.
    • The cited passage states that the Iowa Utilities Board was working on wind-turbine rules and that counsel suggested a hold from August 1, 2020 through January 1, 2021 while information on road infrastructure, the decommissioning plan, and Iowa Utilities Board action was obtained.
    • This claim does not determine requirements under separately adopted county ordinances or incorporated-municipality zoning.
    “Since the County does not having Zoning and with the Iowa Utilities Board in session working on adopting rules and regulations concerning Wind Turbines in Iowa, Kenyon suggested the Board adopt a policy to put a hold on any additional requests in advance starting August 1, 2020 – January 1 2021 until more information is received from the Engineer on the infrastructure of the roads, the decommissioning plan and what the Iowa Utilities Board puts into place.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Countywide aggregate of independently administered local zoning: Union County reported no county zoning, while the City of Creston publishes zoning districts for land within the city.

    • This is an aggregate conclusion; Union County does not administer the City of Creston's zoning districts.
    • The county statement was made in a July 20, 2020 wind-turbine discussion.
    • The Creston map identifies district codes but does not state its adoption or effective date.
    • The zoning status of other municipalities and townships is not established by these sources.
    “City of Creston Zoning Districts C-1 C-2 F I-1 I-2 R-1 R-2 R-3”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land within the Union County airport zoning area associated with Creston Municipal Airport.
      “Zoning Ordinance for Union County (158.16 KB) Archived .pdf”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Union County's county-level zoning materials. The county does not have general zoning, but its official ordinance index lists a specialized airport height-regulation ordinance.

    • The official minutes state that the County does not have zoning; this supports absence of a general county zoning ordinance or general zoning-district system.
    • The official ordinance index lists Union County Airport Height Regulations, Ordinance 80, from 2015; the available index does not establish that this specialized airport regulation creates general zoning districts or a countywide zoning map.
    • Municipal zoning rules, if any, are outside this county-level claim.
    “Union County Attorney Tim Kenyon discussed options that the board can and can’t do concerning the Wind Turbine Ordinance #73 that was approved on April 29th, 2019. Since the County does not having Zoning and with the Iowa Utilities Board in session working on adopting rules and regulations concerning Wind Turbines in Iowa, Kenyon suggested the Board adopt a policy to put a hold on any additional requests in advance starting August 1, 2020 – January 1 2021 until more information is received from the Engineer on the infrastructure of the roads, the decommissioning plan and what the Iowa Utilities Board puts into place.”
  • Who permits septicMixed

    Private sewage disposal systems in Union County.

    • Union County Environmental Health enforces local, state, and federal water and sewage-disposal regulations.
    • Iowa local boards of health have primary responsibility for systems serving 4 homes or fewer or less than 15 people.
    • The Iowa DNR has primary responsibility for larger public systems and may exercise concurrent authority if county standards are not adopted or enforced.
    • Union County adopts Iowa Administrative Code 567 Chapter 69 and adds county-specific requirements.
    “local boards of health have primary responsibility for regulation of private sewage disposal systems (PSDSs, also known as onsite wastewater treatment systems) serving 4 homes or fewer or less than 15 people”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • County — Administration and enforcement of private sewage disposal system rules in Union County, Iowa.
      “Any person who violates any provision of this ordinance or the rules and regulations of Iowa Administrative Code 567-Chapter 69 as enforced by the Union County Board of Health, its officers or authorized agents, will be guilty of a simple misdemeanor.”
    • County — Private sewage disposal and septic-system regulation in Union County, Iowa.
      “This department is concerned with the environmental quality of the community and the health and safety of the community and is responsible for enforcing local, state, and federal regulations that pertain to water, sewage disposal, and other public health issues.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction or reconstruction of a private sewage disposal system in Union County.

    • The homeowner must submit a permit application and a $250 fee to the Union County Environmental Health Office.
    • A soil analysis or percolation test must be completed by a professional soil scientist or registered professional engineer and submitted before issuance of a septic permit.
    • A licensed engineer must design the system if the home has more than 6 bedrooms or 900 gallons per day.
    • The Union County Environmental Health Office conducts a site evaluation before issuing the permit to build.
    • The system must be built by a registered contractor, unless the homeowner has completed required classes and submitted documentation for self-construction.
    • If an alternative system requires a maintenance contract, the homeowner must select a maintenance provider and provide the contract to the county office.
    • Union County Ordinance 32 provides that septic-permit fees are established by the Union County Board of Health.
    • Union County Ordinance 32 requires contractor registration, at least 6 annual CEUs in onsite wastewater systems or a current IOWWA CIOWTS credential, and proof of liability insurance.
    • Plastic or fiberglass septic tanks are not allowed unless preapproved by the Union County Board of Health.
    • Inspection ports may be required in water-sensitive or heavily concentrated dwelling areas, as determined by the Environmental Specialist.
    • Distribution boxes must have risers to the ground surface.

    permit fee: 250 USD (The 2026 homeowner guide states this fee.) · licensed-engineer design threshold: more than 6 bedrooms or 900 gallons per day · contractor continuing education: 6 CEUs annually (A current IOWWA CIOWTS credential is an alternative.)

    “Homeowner fills out Permit Application form and returns it with fee ($250) to Union County Environmental Health Office”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction or reconstruction of private sewage disposal systems in Union County.
      “Union County Environmental Health Office issues homeowner a permit to build”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    New onsite septic-system construction in Union County.

    • The system must remain open for inspection and cannot be placed into operation until approved.
    • The Environmental Health Office must receive at least 24 hours' notice Monday through Friday before final inspection.
    • The county application states that the permit includes two inspections during construction; each additional inspection costs $50.00.
    • The county homeowner guide states the county conducts an inspection and gives approval if the system is installed correctly.

    included construction inspections: 2 inspections (additional inspection requirement charged at $50.00 each) · additional inspection fee: 50 USD (for each additional inspection requirement)

    “system must remain open so that proper inspection and approval can be made by the local Environmental Health and that the system cannot be put into operation until approved. EH Health office must be notified 24 hours Monday-Friday in advance for final inspection.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction or reconstruction of private and nonpublic water wells in Union County.

    • Union County adopts Iowa Administrative Code Chapters 39, 49, and 82 for nonpublic water wells.
    • Fees for construction or reconstruction well permits are established by the Union County Board of Health.
    • Private well permits are required for water-supply wells, including domestic, livestock, irrigation, recreational, industrial, monitoring, heat-pump, geothermal, and dewatering wells, subject to state exemptions.
    • Private water supply permits are issued by the local county health department for supplies serving fewer than 25 individuals or fewer than 15 service connections.
    • Public water supply wells serving 25 or more individuals or 15 or more service connections require a DNR permit instead.
    • Private well construction permits are required for wells 20 feet or greater in depth, replacement wells, and physical-dimension modifications.
    • State exemptions include public wells, certain monitoring wells, temporary test holes, soil borings, non-groundwater exploration boreholes, and dewatering wells in place seven consecutive days or less.

    private water supply threshold: fewer than 25 individuals or fewer than 15 service connections (Public supplies at or above either threshold require DNR permitting.) · well depth threshold: >= 20 feet (State exemptions apply.)

    “a landowner or landowner’s agent shall not construct a new private well without first obtaining a well construction permit”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New private water-supply wells and applicable replacement or modified private wells in Union County.
      “For private water supply wells - wells that serve less than 25 individuals or fewer than 15 water service connections - construction permits are issued by the local county health departments (except for Osceola County*).”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Each new or widened driveway/entrance connecting to the Union County secondary road system.

    • A permit is required for each new or widened entrance.
    • Approval depends on sight distance and other related factors.
    • The minimum entrance width is 20 feet.
    • The County designates minimum pipe length and diameter for drainage; no entrance culvert may be less than 18 inches in diameter.
    • The County Engineer's administrative decisions regarding pipe size, pipe length, sight distance, and safety factors are final, subject to the stated appeal process.

    minimum entrance width: >= 20 feet · minimum entrance culvert diameter: >= 18 inches

    “a permit for each new or widened entrance”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Floodplain development in Union County areas with significant flood hazards, including buildings, structures, mining, filling, grading, paving, excavation, drilling, and placement of factory-built homes.

    • A Floodplain Development Permit must be secured before any floodplain development.
    • The application must identify the work and land, building locations and dimensions, intended use or occupancy, base-flood elevation, lowest-floor or floodproofing elevation, improvement cost and pre-improvement market value when applicable, and other information reasonably necessary to the Administrator.
    • The Union County Emergency Management Coordinator administers the ordinance.
    • Development involving structures, factory-built homes, fill, obstructions, storage, excavation, or watercourse alteration is subject to Iowa Department of Natural Resources review to determine whether the land is in a floodway or floodway fringe.
    • DNR review is not required for new or replacement bridges or culverts on streams draining less than 100 square miles when not associated with a channel modification constituting a channel change under 567-71.2(1)b, Iowa Administrative Code.
    • Approved permits authorize only the use, arrangement, and construction shown in the approved plans; certification by a registered Iowa professional engineer or land surveyor is required before use or occupancy for specified flood-protection work.
    • New or substantially improved residential structures generally require the lowest floor, including basement, to be at least 1 foot above base-flood elevation; alternate elevation methods may be allowed by the Board of Supervisors when specified factors preclude fill.

    residential lowest-floor elevation: >= 1 foot above base flood elevation (alternate elevation methods may be allowed by the Board of Supervisors where existing topography, street grades, or other factors preclude fill) · fill extension beyond residential structure: >= 18 feet

    “A Floodplain Development Permit issued by the Administrator shall be secured prior to any floodplain development”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    New or widened entrances requested to the Union County secondary road system.

    • The County Engineer requires a permit for each new or widened entrance.
    • For a county-installed entrance, the applicant pays $500 for a dry-fill entrance with no culvert, or $1000 plus culvert cost for an entrance requiring a culvert.
    • A $100 credit applies for each entrance removed at the applicant's request and approved for removal by County forces.
    • A contractor/self-installed entrance has no county installation cost, but a required culvert may be purchased from the county at cost.
    • A $500 fee plus County costs applies when the County must correct or remove a non-compliant entrance.
    • The policy is stated to be effective July 1, 2018.

    dry-fill entrance fee: 500 USD (county-installed entrance with no culvert) · culvert entrance installation fee: 1000 USD (plus culvert cost; county-installed entrance) · removed entrance credit: per 100 USD (each entrance removed by County forces at applicant request and County approval) · non-compliant entrance correction/removal fee: 500 USD (plus County costs)

    “The County Engineer will require a permit for each new or widened entrance requested to the secondary road system. Location of the entrance will be at the owner’s request if the sight distance and other related factors are approved by the Engineer. [...] County-installed entrance: Cost to the applicant is $500 for dry-fill entrances (no culvert) and $1000 for the construction of entrances that require a culvert, plus the cost of the culvert. A $100 credit to the applicant’s bill will be applied for each entrance located on the secondary road system that the applicant requests and the county approves removed by County forces. [...] Contractor/self-installed entrance: No cost from the county for an entrance installed by others. If a culvert is required, it may be purchased from the county at cost. [...] A $500 fee, plus County costs, will be assessed to the applicant when the County is required to correct or remove a non-compliant entrance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Union County on-site septic-system construction permits for home, business, or other sites with less than 1,500 gallons per day water usage.
      “Septic System Construction Permit: $250.00 *Non Refundable or Transferable”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    New or widened entrances requested to the Union County secondary road system.

    • The applicant submits the Union County Entrance Application and agrees to the entrance permit terms and County Entrance Policy.
    • The County Engineer evaluates sight distance, drainage area, ditch depth, pipe requirements, road classification, traffic count, and entrance slope.
    • The County Engineer or designated representative is the permit officer.
    • Administrative decisions on pipe size, pipe length, sight distance, and other safety factors are final; other administrative decisions may be appealed in writing to the Board of Supervisors or orally at a regularly scheduled Board meeting.
    • The minimum entrance width is 20 feet; no entrance culvert may be less than 18 inches in diameter.
    • Slope is 6:1 on paved roads and 3:1 on rock or dirt roads.
    • The applicant must call Iowa One Call before self-installation and maintain required barricades and signage.
    • Non-compliant work must be corrected within 30 days after written notice.

    minimum entrance width: >= 20 feet · minimum entrance culvert diameter: >= 18 inches · paved-road slope: 6:1 · rock-or-dirt-road slope: 3:1 · correction period after non-compliance notice: 30 days

    “The County Engineer [...] is hereby named the permit officer”

Iowa rules that apply here

  • Building code adoptedPartial

    The Iowa State Building Code, including the 2024 International Building Code adopted by reference with Iowa amendments, applies statewide to state-owned buildings and structures, qualifying state-funded construction, certain cities over 15,000 that lack a substantially equivalent local building code, and governmental subdivisions that accept the code by ordinance. Factory-built-structure provisions apply throughout Iowa.

    • In a governmental subdivision, the code generally applies only after the governing body enacts an ordinance accepting applicability and files a certified copy with the commissioner.
    • The local ordinance fixes the effective date, which must be no more than six months after adoption.
    • A governmental subdivision may withdraw after one year by ordinance, following the required public hearing and written notice; the withdrawal date must be at least 180 days after ordinance adoption, and previously issued permits are unaffected.
    • The state building code applies to state-owned buildings and structures and to newly constructed buildings and structures paid for in whole or in part with state-appropriated money but not wholly state-owned.
    • Cities with populations over 15,000 that lack a local building code substantially in accord with nationally recognized standards must enforce the state building code.
    • Factory-built-structure provisions apply throughout the state; an approved factory-built structure is deemed compliant with building regulations applicable to its manufacture and installation and is exempt from other state or local building regulations, subject to the statutory exceptions concerning professional engineering and architecture and manufactured homes.
    • The current administrative rule adopts the 2024 International Building Code by reference with amendments; detached one- and two-family dwellings, certain townhouses not more than three stories, and their accessory structures instead comply with the amended International Residential Code.

    adopted model building code: 2024 International Building Code (Adopted by reference with Iowa amendments.) · current administrative-rule effective date: 2025-09-10 (Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 481.301 source identifies ARC 9474C as effective September 10, 2025.) · local ordinance effective-date limit: <= 6 months after adoption · local withdrawal waiting period: >= 1 year after code became applicable (A governmental subdivision may withdraw only after this period has elapsed.) · withdrawal effective-date minimum: >= 180 days after ordinance adoption (Previously issued permits remain unaffected.)

    “The state building code shall be applicable: [...] In each governmental subdivision where the governing body has enacted an ordinance accepting the application of the code.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Construction in Union County insofar as Iowa’s statewide building-code provisions apply, including state energy-conservation and lighting-efficiency requirements and any state building-code application triggered by local adoption.
      “The state building code shall be applicable: [...] In each governmental subdivision where the governing body has enacted an ordinance accepting the application of the code. [...] Provisions of the state building code establishing thermal efficiency energy conservation standards shall be applicable to all construction in the state which will contain enclosed space that is heated or cooled. [...] Provisions of the state building code establishing lighting efficiency standards shall be applicable to all construction in the state and to new and replacement lighting in existing buildings.”
    • Partial — Building-code requirements applicable in Union County through Iowa's state building-code framework.
      “The state building code shall be applicable: [...] In each governmental subdivision where the governing body has enacted an ordinance accepting the application of the code.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — New buildings and structures in Iowa whose construction is paid for in whole or in part with state-appropriated funds and that are not wholly state-owned
      “such buildings or structures shall be built to comply with the state building code and shall be subject to a plan review and inspection”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Buildings or structures constructed in accordance with the Iowa state building code, where the applicable governmental subdivision requires a certificate of occupancy or use by ordinance.
      “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 dwelling sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Minimum dwelling-size standards imposed by county zoning regulations on manufactured homes in Iowa.

    • County zoning under chapter 335 is optional and applies only where the county board of supervisors has adopted it.
    • The local standard must be the same standard applicable to a site-built single-family dwelling on the same lot.
    • The cited provision does not supply a statewide numeric minimum square-footage value.
    “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.”
  • 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:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — At least one accessory dwelling unit on the same lot as a single-family residence in Iowa, including Union County, subject to the statutory conditions.
      “A county shall allow a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit on the same lot as a single family residence”
    • 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:”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Non-sewer sanitation systems in Union County governed by Iowa Administrative Code chapter 567.69, including impervious vault toilets and holding tanks.

    • Impervious vault toilets must meet the chapter's separation distances, be constructed of reinforced impervious concrete at least four inches thick, have a compliant sanitary superstructure, and have a fly-tight covered cleanout.
    • Wastewater from impervious vault toilets must go to a POTW or other department-permitted wastewater disposal system.
    • Holding tanks may be used only when site characteristics or restrictions do not allow both primary and secondary treatment, or when use is seasonal or sporadic.
    • Holding tanks must have at least 1,250 gallons capacity, be pumped to prevent overflows, leaks, or releases, retain pumping records for three years, have a high-water alarm, and discharge to a POTW or other department-permitted disposal system.
    • Chapter 567.69 contains no text matching composting toilets; this does not establish that composting toilets are prohibited or allowed.

    impervious vault toilet concrete thickness: >= 4 inches · holding tank minimum liquid capacity: >= 1250 gallons · holding-tank pumping-record retention: 3 years

    “Holding tanks may only be used when site characteristics or restrictions do not allow for the installation of a system that consists of both primary and secondary treatment or when the use will be seasonal or sporadic.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Domestic sewage disposal for buildings in Union County under Iowa Administrative Code chapter 567.69.

    • A PSDS may not be installed, repaired, or rehabilitated where a publicly owned treatment works is available or a local ordinance requires connection to a POTW.
    • A POTW may be considered unavailable when it, or a connected building or exterior drainage facility, is more than 200 feet from the proposed building or exterior drainage facility on a lot or premises abutting and served by the POTW.
    • Final determination of availability is made by the administrative authority.
    • When a POTW is unavailable, every building where persons generate domestic sewage must have an approved PSDS.
    • A holding tank may be used only if all other PSDS options are impractical.

    POTW availability distance threshold: > 200 feet (the administrative authority makes the final determination of availability)

    “When a POTW becomes available within 200 feet, any building then served by a PSDS shall be connected to said POTW within a time frame and under conditions set by the administrative authority.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable

    Agricultural experiences on property whose primary use is agricultural production, including qualifying agriculture-related activities open to the public for promoting or educating the public about agriculture.

    • The activity must be agriculture-related.
    • It must be a secondary use in conjunction with agricultural production.
    • It must occur on a farm.
    • The activity must be open to the public.
    • The intended purpose must be promoting or educating the public about agriculture, agricultural practices, agricultural activities, or agricultural products.
    • The property’s primary use must be agricultural production.
    • A county may not require a conditional use permit, special use permit, special exception, or variance for a qualifying agricultural experience.

    conditional use permit requirement: not required (Only for qualifying agricultural experiences on property whose primary use is agricultural production.) · special use permit requirement: not required (Only for qualifying agricultural experiences on property whose primary use is agricultural production.) · special exception or variance requirement: not required (Only for qualifying agricultural experiences on property whose primary use is agricultural production.)

    “To assist in the promotion of agricultural experiences, a county shall not require a conditional use permit, special use permit, special exception, or variance for agricultural experiences on property of which the primary use is agricultural production.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — County zoning ordinances adopted under Iowa Code chapter 335, as applied to agricultural land, farm houses, farm barns, farm outbuildings, and other buildings or structures primarily adapted by nature and area for agricultural purposes while so used.
      “Except to the extent required to implement section 335.27, no ordinance adopted under this chapter applies to land, farm houses, farm barns, farm outbuildings, or other buildings or structures that are primarily adapted, by reason of nature and area, for use for agricultural purposes, while so used. However, the ordinances may apply to any structure, building, dam, obstruction, deposit, or excavation in or on the floodplains of any river or stream.”
    • Conditional — Land, farm houses, farm barns, farm outbuildings, and other buildings or structures primarily adapted by reason of nature and area for agricultural purposes, while used for those purposes, under county ordinances adopted pursuant to Iowa Code chapter 335.
      “no ordinance adopted under this chapter applies”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plats in Iowa, including subdivision plats in Union County, must be submitted to the applicable governing body for review and approval before recording.

    • The applicable governing body applies reasonable standards and conditions under applicable statutes and ordinances.
    • The governing body must determine within sixty days of the application for final approval whether the subdivision conforms to its comprehensive plan.
    • The governing body must consider the possible burden on public improvements and balance the interests of the proprietor, future purchasers, and the public interest.
    • Final approval may not issue unless the plat conforms to Iowa Code sections 354.6, 354.11, and 355.8.
    • A resolution approving the plat, or waiving the right to review, is required for recording.
    • Local city or county ordinances and any applicable city review jurisdiction may add standards and conditions.

    final-approval determination period: <= 60 days (Measured from the application for final approval of the subdivision plat.) · subdivision definition threshold: >= 3 lots or parcels

    “A proposed subdivision plat lying within the jurisdiction of a governing body shall be submitted to that governing body for review and approval prior to recording.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in Iowa by repeated or simultaneous division into three or more parcels, subject to statutory exceptions and local review.
      “A subdivision plat shall be made when a tract of land is subdivided by repeated divisions or simultaneous division into three or more parcels”
  • 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Union County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land within the City of Creston, Iowa.

    • The official city map identifies the districts as C-1, C-2, F, I-1, I-2, R-1, R-2, and R-3.
    • The map does not state an adoption or effective date.
    “City of Creston Zoning Districts C-1 C-2 F I-1 I-2 R-1 R-2 R-3”
  • Living in an RVProhibited

    Residential occupancy of a factory-built dwelling unit or recreational vehicle on private land, streets, alleys, highways, or public places in the City of Creston

    • The prohibition applies except as otherwise provided by State law and City regulations.
    • A recreational vehicle not being used for residential occupancy may be stored temporarily at the owner's residence if it is operable and in good repair.
    “It is unlawful for any person to park or occupy any [...] recreational vehicle”
  • Camping on your landProhibited

    Temporary camping or residential use of a recreational vehicle on private land or public places in the City of Creston

    • The prohibition is subject to any exception provided by State law and City regulations.
    • Temporary storage is allowed only when the recreational vehicle is not being used for residential occupancy, is stored at the owner's residence, and is operable and in good repair.
    “while not being used for residential occupancy may be stored temporarily”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Manufactured-dwelling occupancy in the City of Creston, including approved manufactured-dwelling parks and qualifying locations outside such parks

    • Outside an approved manufactured dwelling park, the dwelling must comply with the minimum floor-area and width requirements of the one- and two-family dwelling district.
    • The dwelling must have HUD or HUD-approved third-party certification under the most recent Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, with the HUD certification label on each section or module.
    • The foundation must be compatible with the structure; outside a mobile home park it must be visually compatible, use permitted materials, and meet City structural requirements.
    • The vehicular frame must be removed or permanently modified or destroyed so the dwelling is nontransportable, and the dwelling must be permanently attached to the foundation.
    • The dwelling must be converted to and taxed as real estate; title, registration, assessor documentation, and any required evidence must be submitted with the building permit application.
    • No permanent or temporary certificate of occupancy may be granted until the assessor certifies conversion and entry on the tax rolls.
    • The dwelling must be new and undamaged and not previously installed or occupied, as shown by the chain of title and dealer certification.
    • Additions and modifications must comply with the City Building Code; sewer, water, utilities, and site improvements must comply with City Codes and specifications.
    • A non-mobile-home-district manufactured dwelling may not be replaced without conforming to the stated specifications.
    • A single-family detached dwelling must have a minimum horizontal dimension of twenty feet for at least sixty-five percent of the longer horizontal dimension, excluding attached garages, porches, and other accessory structures, unless located in an approved mobile home park.

    minimum horizontal dimension: >= 20 feet (Must apply for at least 65 percent of the longer horizontal dimension; excludes attached garages, porches, and other accessory structures; exception for approved mobile home parks.) · minimum park gross area: >= 2 acres (Applies to mobile home parks under the R-3 district provisions.)

    “Occupancy shall not be permitted until all required improvements including utility services are installed and operating.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Building height — Building height rules in Union County, Iowa
  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of tiny homes on private land in Union County, Iowa.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Union 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 Union County, Iowa

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

Union County scores 72/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and sparse surroundings — about 11,487 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Union County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Union County Environmental Health / Board of Health. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Union County, Iowa?

Land in Union County runs about $5,970 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Union County?

Union County gets about 36.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 6.7% of years.

How remote is Union County?

A representative private-land location has about 11,487 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,048,820 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 Union compares in Iowa

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