Bolthole Index

Worth County, Iowa

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

48Index Score / 100
#84 of 99 in Iowa

Unincorporated Worth County, Iowa requires a building permit for new buildings, additions and accessory buildings, plus a zoning certificate before covered construction, moving or a change of use, subject to the agricultural exemption12. Worth County Planning and Zoning administers the county's countywide zoning, and incorporated cities may have separate municipal rules inside their limits34. Septic and well permits are obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian56.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for new buildings, additions, fences, decks, accessory buildings, remodeling projects and signs1
Zoning
Yes; Worth County applies county-administered zoning countywide37
Septic permit
Required for new systems and repairs or updates; obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian85
RV living
C-R permits commercial campgrounds and RV parks; ordinary private-lot occupancy is unconfirmed910
Tiny home
No specific rule confirmed; dwelling dimensions, foundation standards and zoning still apply11
Owner-builder
State contractor-registration exemption available for work on your own property, but it does not waive permits121
Minimum home size
Main-body width and length must each average at least 24 feet, subject to the ordinance exception11
Wells
Required through the Worth County Sanitarian; published fee is $75135

Who to call

Building permits

Worth County Planning and Zoning

Zoning administration and review of proposed construction, reconstruction, alterations, uses and changes of use

602-206-4730

1000 Central Ave. Northwood, IA 50459

Septic permits

Worth County Sanitarian

Septic-system and private-well permits in Worth County

319-830-1276

Roads & driveways

Worth County Engineer's Office and Secondary Roads

County secondary roads and road-access applications

641-324-2154

1000 Central Ave. Northwood, IA 50459

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Worth 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 Worth County, Iowa?

Yes. Unincorporated Worth County requires a permit for new buildings, additions, fences, decks, accessory buildings, remodeling projects and signs1. A zoning certificate is also required before covered construction, moving, structural alteration or a change of use, subject to the agricultural exemption2. The permit is valid for one year, and the application must include the fee and a site plan showing dimensions and setbacks1. Agricultural land, farmsteads, farmhouses, barns, outbuildings and other structures primarily adapted to agricultural purposes may qualify for an exemption while used that way, but the owner must demonstrate agricultural use and the exemption does not cover listed development in a river or stream floodplain14. Worth County also has a local building-code ordinance on its books, though we could not confirm that it adopted the Iowa state building code15. Iowa's owner-builder provision exempts work on your own property from contractor registration; it does not waive Worth County permits or zoning requirements121.

Who issues building, zoning, septic and floodplain permits in Worth County?

Worth County Planning and Zoning is the first stop because its administrative office checks proposed construction and uses for ordinance compliance10. The office is at 1000 Central Ave. in Northwood and can be reached at 602-206-473010. The county publishes building-permit and zoning-compliance forms, and completed forms go to the Planning and Zoning email shown on the county resources page16. A complete application includes the fee and a site plan showing dimensions and setbacks1. Depending on the project, Planning and Zoning may also require a conditional-use permit, variance, septic or well permit, or floodplain development permit17. A Flood Plain Development Permit comes from the County Flood Zone Administrator in the Engineer's Office, not from Planning and Zoning18. Septic and well permits stay with the Worth County Sanitarian, and a parcel inside a city should also be checked with that city's own rules54. Published fees cover zoning and related applications, but the planning-and-zoning schedule is dated 2012, so confirm the charge before paying19. We could not confirm a construction-inspection schedule or general occupancy-certificate rule; ask Planning and Zoning what closeout applies10.

Does Worth County have zoning?

Yes. Worth County applies county-administered zoning countywide and publishes district classifications and maps, which can be amended3720. Lot area varies by district and use: A-1 single-family or farm dwellings generally require 35 acres, reduced to 1.5 acres when the stated soil-rating condition is met21. R-1 single-family dwellings have minimum front and rear yards of 30 feet and side yards of 10 feet, with different rules for other structures and corner lots22. Height is also district-specific: the R-1 single-family limit is 2.5 stories or 35 feet, whichever is lower, while the R-2 limit is 3 stories or 45 feet, whichever is lower23. In an Agricultural district, a secondary farm dwelling may house qualifying family members if the principal dwelling stays occupied and the accessory dwelling is a permanent structure within 250 feet that cannot be sold separately24. Ask Planning and Zoning to verify the parcel's current district and standards10.

How do septic and well permits work in Worth County?

Worth County requires a permit for new septic systems and repairs or updates, with permits obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian58. The published septic fee is $200, and every new well requires a permit with a published $75 fee2513. Call the Sanitarian at 319-830-1276 before fixing the house location26. Only about 3.8% of Worth County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so site evaluation can affect system design and cost27. A septic system may not discharge into a ditch, field tile, creek or similar outlet and must use secondary treatment such as a soil absorption field28. Iowa requires a certified inspection before most qualifying transfers of a private system serving one through four dwelling units, subject to exceptions29.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Worth County?

Worth County expressly permits commercial campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks in the C-R district, but that does not establish a right to live long term in an RV on an ordinary private lot9. Ask Planning and Zoning about the parcel, duration and utility plan before relying on an RV10. A tiny home is not automatically exempt: new dwellings generally need a permanent foundation and an average main-body width and length of at least 24 feet11. Manufactured housing is also limited: the R-MH district is for manufactured housing parks, while a farm may have a mobile home as its principal dwelling and may allow one additional mobile home for an immediate-family occupant engaged in the farm operation30. A special-use permit may allow temporary living quarters while the principal dwelling is built30. Worth County has not confirmed a general rule for private residential RV occupancy or a tiny-home-specific occupancy rule; ask Planning and Zoning before buying or placing either10.

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

  1. Ask Worth County Planning and Zoning to verify the parcel's district, allowed use and current map2010.
  2. Confirm the applicable lot, setback, dwelling-dimension and height rules before final plans21221131.
  3. If dividing land, discuss platting and access early; Worth County regulates subdivisions and reviews subdivision plats3233.
  4. Have the Worth County Sanitarian address septic and well permits before fixing the building site346.
  5. Prepare the site plan and submit the zoning-certificate or building-permit application with the appropriate fee171.
  6. Ask whether the floodplain ordinance or a DNR floodplain permit applies if the site is in a river or stream floodplain35.
  7. Confirm street frontage or an approved access easement and make sure the driveway meets county policy3637.

What should you check before buying land in Worth County?

Start with zoning, access, septic feasibility, water and floodplain status. Worth County's district-specific lot, setback and height rules can determine whether the intended house fits382223. Ask whether the purchase depends on a land division because Worth County regulates subdivision platting and related access33. A residential lot generally needs at least 50 feet of street frontage or an exclusive private easement at least 20 feet wide, and a shared easement for two single-family dwellings must be at least 24 feet wide37. Only about 3.8% of soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, although about 99.5% of county land has a slope of 15% or less2739. Floodplain controls still apply to listed development that otherwise might claim an agricultural exemption3514. For carrying costs, the effective property-tax rate is about 1.1%, the median annual property-tax bill is about $1,530 and a typical annual home-insurance premium is about $1,592404142.

Watch-outs

  • The agricultural exemption is conditional and does not cover listed development in river or stream floodplains14.
  • Worth County's published planning-and-zoning fee schedule is dated 2012, so confirm current charges before submitting an application1910.
  • C-R zoning permits commercial campgrounds and RV parks, but the county has not confirmed general residential RV occupancy on an ordinary private lot910.

Sources

  1. Worth County Application for Zoning Certificate (Building Permit), quoted and re-checked
  2. Worth County Planning and Zoning Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  3. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance (as of June 22, 2026), quoted and re-checked
  4. Planning and Zoning Department - Worth County, Iowa, quoted and re-checked
  5. Planning and Zoning Department - Worth County, Iowa, quoted and re-checked
  6. Planning and Zoning Department - Worth County, Iowa, quoted and re-checked
  7. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance (as of June 22, 2026), quoted and re-checked
  8. Planning and Zoning Department - Worth County, Iowa, quoted and re-checked
  9. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  10. Worth County Planning and Zoning (worthcountyiowa.gov)
  11. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  12. Iowa Code 2026, Chapter 91C — Construction Contractors (Iowa statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Financial Incentives - Environmental Health - Worth County, quoted and re-checked
  14. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  15. February 26, 2007 Board of Supervisors Minutes, quoted and re-checked
  16. Forms and Resources - Planning and Zoning - Worth County, IA, quoted and re-checked
  17. Forms and Resources - Planning and Zoning - Worth County, IA, quoted and re-checked
  18. Aid to Zoning Questions, quoted and re-checked
  19. Worth County Planning and Zoning Fee Structure, quoted and re-checked
  20. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  21. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  22. Worth County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  23. Worth County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  24. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance (as of June 22, 2026), quoted and re-checked
  25. Financial Incentives - Environmental Health - Worth County, quoted and re-checked
  26. Worth County Sanitarian (worthcountyiowa.gov)
  27. 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
  28. Wells & Septic Systems - Environmental Health - Worth County, quoted and re-checked
  29. Iowa Code §455B.172, Jurisdiction of department and local boards (Iowa statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance (as of June 22, 2026), quoted and re-checked
  31. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  32. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  33. Worth County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  34. Planning and Zoning Department - Worth County, Iowa, quoted and re-checked
  35. Worth County Application for Zoning Certificate (Building Permit), quoted and re-checked
  36. Worth County, Iowa, Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  37. Worth County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  38. Worth County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  39. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  40. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Typical home insurance premium: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleWorth CountyCerro Gordo CountyMitchell CountyWinnebago CountyHancock CountyFloyd CountyFranklin County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty SanitarianCounty Dept. of Public HealthCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. Health OfficeCounty Env. HealthCounty Env. Health Dept.

County locator

Worth County in Iowa

48
County map
Worth County highlighted among the Iowa counties · colored by Index score

How Worth County scores

Seclusion43100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency3099% ev.
Admin Boringness50100% ev.
Durability50100% ev.
Property Autonomy51100% ev.
Carry Cost59100% 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 →

$197kTypical home
1.1%Property tax
$9,241Land / acre
35.8"Annual rain
14.3% of yrsSevere drought
2.8 / yr (+2.7)Mid-century 100°F days
15.7 daysMid-century dry spell
1.9" (+9.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.8×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,592Home insurance / yr
3.3% / yrInsurance growth
1.56%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
50,072People within 30 min
2,926,670People within 2 hr
18,109Radius comparison (15 mi)
18.2People / sq mi
1.9%Federal land
99.5%Land at 15% slope or less
3.8%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
9,631 acWorkable land screen
2.9%Wooded land
70.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
45.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Worth 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.

Fertile · Grafton · Hanlontown · Joice · Kensett · Manly · Northwood

Answers from the rulebook for Worth County

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

Worth County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, reconstruction, alteration, moving, or change of use subject to Worth County zoning requirements.

    • Agricultural uses meeting the ordinance's agricultural exemption are excepted from the zoning-certificate permit requirement.
    • A zoning certificate is required before erection, construction, moving in, or structural alteration of a building or structure.
    • The certificate becomes void twelve months after issuance unless construction, moving, remodeling, reconstruction, or use commences within that period.
    “This permit is required for construction of the following: new buildings, additions, fence, decks, sheds/accessory building, remodeling projects, and signs.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New buildings, additions, fences, decks, sheds/accessory buildings, remodeling projects, and signs in the county zoning jurisdiction.
      “This permit is required for construction of the following: new buildings, additions, fence, decks, sheds/accessory building, remodeling projects, and signs.”
    • Required — Construction and structural alteration projects subject to the Worth County zoning ordinance.
      “This permit is required for construction of the following: new buildings, additions, fence, decks, sheds/accessory building, remodeling projects, and signs.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    Worth County's local building-code ordinance, as reflected in the Board of Supervisors record and county code index

    • The cited record establishes approval of an ordinance titled 'Amend Worth County Building Code' and the 2023 county ordinance index identifies 'Amending Worth County Building Code' as part of the existing county code.
    • This evidence does not establish that Worth County separately accepted the Iowa state building code under Iowa Code §103A.12 or that a certified copy was filed with the state commissioner.
    “Motion by Bang, second by Creger to approve Ordinance #02/12/07 Amend Worth County Building Code. Roll call vote: Yea – Bang, Creger, May. Nay – None. Motion carried.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Worth County zoning ordinance applying countywide, including unincorporated areas and county zoning districts.

    • The ordinance states that zoning was applied county-wide by Ordinance 2022.05.16.
    • The ordinance text and zoning maps remain subject to amendments; property-specific information must be obtained from the Planning and Zoning Office.
    “May 23, 2022 to apply zoning county-wide per Ordinance 2022.05.16”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Worth County zoning regulations for the county zoning jurisdiction, principally the unincorporated area.

    • The ordinance identifies county zoning districts and official zoning maps.
    • Municipalities may administer their own municipal ordinances within incorporated areas.
    “the unincorporated area of Worth County, Iowa, is hereby divided into nine (9) classes of districts.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — County-administered zoning under the Worth County Zoning Ordinance.
      “May 23, 2022 to apply zoning county-wide per Ordinance 2022.05.16”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Worth County zoning-district classifications and their use, height, and area regulations.

    • The ordinance contains district-specific regulations and the zoning maps may be amended.
    • The listed districts are A-1, R-1, R-2, R-MH, PUD, C, C-1, C-2, C-R, I-L, and I-H as reflected in the ordinance's contents and district provisions.
    “‘A-1’ Agricultural District ‘R-1’ Low Density Residence District ‘R-2’ Moderate Density Residence District ‘R-MH’ Residential Mobile Home District”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Zoning districts established by the Worth County Zoning Ordinance.
      “VI. Establishment of Districts and District Boundaries 22 [...] IX. Use Regulation for ‘A-1’ Agricultural District 34 X. Use Regulation for ‘R-1’ Low Density Residence District 38 XI. Use Regulation for ‘R-2’ Moderate Density Residence District 41 XII. Use Regulation for ‘R-MH’ Mobile Home Residence District 44”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    New dwellings for which building permits have been issued.

    • The dwelling must be affixed to a permanent foundation system in accordance with Uniform Building Code standards.
    • The ordinance states a minimum average dimension of both width and length of the main body of the dwelling unit.

    minimum average width of main dwelling body: >= 24 feet (Section XIII, J (1) exception) · minimum average length of main dwelling body: >= 24 feet (Section XIII, J (1) exception)

    “The minimum average dimension of the width and of the length of the main body of the dwelling unit shall not be less than twenty-four (24) feet”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots and principal structures in Worth County zoning districts.

    • Minimums differ by zoning district and use.
    • A-1 single-family or farm dwellings generally require 35 acres, reduced to 1.5 acres when the stated CSR condition is met.
    • R-1, R-2, R-MH, commercial, commercial-recreation, and industrial districts have separate table requirements.

    A-1 single-family or farm dwelling minimum lot area: 35 acres unless CSR is 70 or less on 75% of lot, then 1.5 acres · C/C-R permitted structures minimum lot area: >= 2 acres

    “35 Acres, unless CSR is 70 or less on 75% of lot then 1.5 Acres”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Lots in the Worth County zoning districts shown in the dimensional regulations.
      “Single Family 3 Stories or 45 Feet, whichever is lower. 8,000 Square Feet 70 Feet 30 Feet 10% of lot width 30 Feet Two Family 9,000 Square Feet 80 Feet 40 Feet 10% of lot width 30 Feet [...] Multiple Family 10,000 Square Feet”
    • Specified — Lots and permitted structures in Worth County zoning districts.
      “Single Family or Farm Dwelling in the “A-1” Agricultural District -- 35 Acres, unless CSR is 70 or less on 75% of lot then 1.5 Acres”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings and structures in Worth County zoning districts.

    • Setbacks vary by district, use, lot type, and applicable exceptions.
    • The ordinance includes front-, side-, and rear-yard requirements and special rules for corner lots and approved plats.

    A-1 single-family/farm dwelling front yard: 50 feet · A-1 single-family/farm dwelling side yard: 25 feet · A-1 single-family/farm dwelling rear yard: 50 feet · C/C-R permitted structures front yard: 25 feet

    “Minimum Front Yard Minimum Side Yard Minimum Rear Yard [...] 50 Feet 25 Feet 50 Feet”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Front, side, and rear yards in Worth County zoning districts.
      “Single Family 2.5 Stories or 35 Feet, whichever is lower. 20,000 Square Feet 100 Feet 30 Feet 10 Feet 30 Feet”
    • Specified — Single-family dwellings, other permitted structures, and accessory buildings in Worth County's R-1 Low Density Residence District.
      “Single Family 40,000** 100 30 30 10 35’ and/or 2½ stories [...] Permitted Structures ___ ___ 35 35 10 35’ and/or 2½ stories [...] Accessory Buildings* ___ ___ 60 4* 4* 18’”
    • Specified — Front, side, and rear yards in Worth County zoning districts.
      “Single Family 2.5 Stories or 35 Feet, whichever is lower. 20,000 Square Feet 100 Feet 30 Feet 10 Feet 30 Feet”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Accessory buildings and uses in Worth County zoning districts.

    • The cited 30-percent limit applies to the yard occupied by the accessory building or use, not as a universal lot-wide impervious-coverage limit.
    • A 440-square-foot accessory building may still be constructed if all yard setbacks can be maintained.

    maximum accessory-building occupancy of required rear yard: <= 30 percent (440-square-foot accessory building exception stated in ordinance)

    “An accessory building that is not a part of the main building shall not occupy more than thirty (30) percent of the required rear yard.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Buildings and structures in Worth County zoning districts.

    • Height limits vary by district and use.
    • Examples include A-1 and R-1/R-2 residential limits, commercial limits, industrial limits, and R-MH limits.

    A-1 single-family/farm dwelling maximum height: 35 feet and/or 2.5 stories · C/C-R permitted-structure maximum height: 35 feet or 2 stories, whichever is lower · industrial principal/conditional-use maximum height: 48 feet or 3 stories, whichever is lower

    “2.5 Stories or 35 Feet, whichever is lower.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Maximum building height in Worth County zoning districts.
      “Single Family 3 Stories or 45 Feet, whichever is lower.”
    • Specified — Maximum building heights in Worth County zoning districts.
      “Single Family 2.5 Stories or 35 Feet, whichever is lower. [...] Single Family 3 Stories or 45 Feet, whichever is lower.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Commercial campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks in the county C-R Commercial Recreation District.

    • The ordinance expressly permits commercial campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks in C-R.
    • This claim does not establish unrestricted long-term RV occupancy on an ordinary private lot outside a campground or RV park.
    • Other approvals, including zoning certificates and health requirements, may apply.
    “Commercial campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks, including incidental retail sales of merchandise on the site.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured housing in Worth County zoning districts.

    • The ordinance provides an R-MH Manufactured Home District for manufactured housing parks.
    • Premises in the R-MH district shall be used for manufactured housing parks only.
    • Manufactured housing parks must comply with applicable Iowa Department of Public Health and Worth County Department of Public Health requirements.
    • The ordinance states that the maximum overall density is eight homes per acre of all land within the mobile home park.

    maximum overall density: <= 8 homes per acre (all land within the mobile home park)

    “Premises in each ‘RMH’ Manufactured Housing Residential District shall be used for Manufactured Housing Parks only. [...] The maximum overall density shall be eight homes per acre of all land within the mobile home park. [...] Manufactured housing parks shall comply with all applicable requirements of the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Worth County Department of Public Health.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Manufactured housing and mobile homes in Worth County.
      “Premises in each ‘RMH’ Manufactured Housing Residential District shall be used for Manufactured Housing Parks only.”
    • Limited — Manufactured housing, mobile homes, and manufactured housing parks in the R-MH Residential Mobile Home District.
      “The ‘R-MH’ Mobile Home District is to provide for the location of mobile homes, modular homes, manufactured housing”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Secondary farm dwellings used as accessory dwellings in Agricultural zoning districts.

    • The principal dwelling must remain occupied.
    • The accessory dwelling may be constructed only in Agricultural zoning districts.
    • It must serve exclusively as living quarters for qualifying family members.
    • It must be within 250 feet of the primary farm dwelling.
    • It must be a permanent structure anchored to a permanent foundation.
    • It may not be sold separately from the entire property.

    maximum distance from primary farm dwelling: <= 250 feet

    “A secondary farm dwelling may be allowed as an accessory use to the principal dwelling unit, provided that the principal dwelling unit remains occupied:”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Septic and onsite wastewater permitting in Worth County.

    • The county page attributes the permit requirement to state law.
    • Applications and permits are obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian or county environmental health agency.
    “Septic and well permits are required by state law and are obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian (641-220-3460).”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Septic permitting administration in Worth County.
      “Septic and well permits are required by state law and are obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian (641-220-3460).”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Septic permitting in Worth County.
      “Septic and well permits are required by state law and are obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian (641-220-3460).”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Private sewage disposal permitting and administration in Worth County.
      “Septic and well permits are required by state law and are obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian (641-220-3460).”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New construction and repairs or updates to septic systems in Worth County.

    • The county page states that any new construction and repairs or updates for septic systems require a permit.
    • The county lists a septic permit fee of $200.00.

    septic permit fee: 200 USD

    “Any new construction and repairs or updates for septic systems require a permit. Septic Permits $200.00”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Private septic sanitation and wastewater discharge in Worth County.

    • Septic systems discharging into a ditch, field tile, creek, or similar outlet are illegal.
    • Secondary treatment such as a soil absorption field is required.
    “Septic systems that flow into ditch, field tile, creek, etc. are Illegal. They must have secondary treatment such as a soil absorption field. If they don't, they are NOT grandfathered in. They either have secondary treatment or they are illegal.”
  • Well permitRequired

    All new wells in Worth County.

    • The county page states that all new wells require a permit.
    • The county lists a well permit fee of $75.00.

    well permit fee: 75 USD

    “All new wells require a permit. Well Permits $75.00”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Utility availability and connection requirements vary by zoning district and site conditions.

    • R-1 is intended for areas where common utilities are not available and onsite facilities must be used.
    • R-2 is intended where a common water system is available and a common sewer system may be available at development.
    • Lots without public community sewer and public water supply must meet the applicable minimum buildable-area requirement.

    minimum buildable area without public community sewer and public water: >= 40000 square feet (C-R district provision)

    “where common utilities are not available and on-site facilities must be utilized.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Residences, businesses, trades, and industries requiring water supply and sewage-disposal facilities.
      “Every residence, business, trade, or industry hereafter established, which requires water supply and sewage disposal facilities, shall provide facilities that conform with the Well and Sewage Regulations of the County Department of Health and all other applicable regulations.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Land, farmsteads, farmhouses, barns, outbuildings, and other structures primarily adapted for agricultural purposes while used for agricultural purposes.

    • The claimant must demonstrate that the property is used for agricultural purposes.
    • The exemption does not apply to structures, buildings, dams, obstructions, deposits, or excavations in floodplains of a river or stream.
    • The county seeks voluntary compliance with ordinance provisions, specifically minimum yard requirements, for agricultural uses.
    “It shall be the responsibility of any person or group claiming that property is entitled to exemption on the basis of this section to demonstrate that the property is used for agricultural purposes.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and subdivision-related access and platting in Worth County.

    • The county maintains a Subdivision Ordinance dated October 6, 2008.
    • For more than two dwellings, access easements must conform to the Worth County Subdivision Ordinance.
    • A preliminary plat is required with a rezoning petition for subdivisions.

    minimum access easement for two single-family dwellings: >= 24 feet (common easement)

    “10-06-08 · Subdivision Ordinance (October 6, 2008)”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision petitions and plats under the Worth County zoning ordinance.
      “The Zoning Administrator must receive petitions at least twenty (20) working days prior to a stated or special meeting of the Zoning Commission. A preliminary plat shall be submitted with a petition for rezoning for subdivisions.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and resubdivision of land subject to Worth County review.
      “Review all plans, plats, or re-plats or subdivision or re-subdivision of land embraced in the County, laid out in lots or plats with the streets, alleys, or other portions intended for public dedication to the County.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Residential lots and dwellings subject to the Worth County zoning ordinance.

    • A residential lot must abut at least 50 feet on a street or have an exclusive unobstructed private easement or right-of-way at least 20 feet wide to a street.
    • A common access easement at least 24 feet wide may serve two single-family dwellings.
    • For more than two dwellings, the access easement must conform to the Worth County Subdivision Ordinance.

    minimum street frontage: >= 50 feet (or exclusive unobstructed private easement/right-of-way at least 20 feet wide) · minimum private access easement width: >= 20 feet (exclusive unobstructed private easement or right-of-way to a street) · common easement width for two dwellings: >= 24 feet (common easement may be provided for two single-family dwellings)

    “Except as permitted in this Ordinance no lot shall contain any building used in whole or in part for residence purposes unless such lot abuts for at least fifty (50) feet on at least one street, or unless it has an exclusive unobstructed private easement of access or right-of-way of at least twenty (20) feet wide to a street, and there shall be not more than one (1) single-family dwelling for such frontage or easement, except that a common easement of access at least twenty-four (24) feet wide may be provided for two (2) such single-family dwellings.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Public and private driveways in Worth County.
      “All driveways, public and private, shall meet or exceed the current Worth County driveway policy.”
    • Required — Public and private driveways serving development in Worth County.
      “All driveways, public and private, shall meet or exceed the current Worth County driveway policy.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Development and structures in Worth County floodplain areas.

    • The county maintains a Floodplain Management Ordinance dated July 30, 2012.
    • The zoning ordinance's agricultural exemption does not apply to structures, buildings, dams, obstructions, deposits, or excavations in river or stream floodplains.
    • The county building-permit form includes a DNR Floodplain Permit Required determination.
    “This exemption shall not apply to any structure, buildings, dam, obstruction, deposits or excavation in or on the floodplains of any river or stream.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Development reviewed through the Worth County zoning certificate/building permit process where floodplain permitting may apply.
      “This exemption shall not apply to any structure, buildings, dam, obstruction, deposits or excavation in or on the floodplains of any river or stream.”
    • Required — Projects in a Worth County floodplain zone.
      “Obtain a Flood Plain Development Permit from the County Flood ZoneAdministrator in the EngineersOffice”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published Worth County planning, zoning, subdivision, variance, special-exception, flood-zone, and septic/well fees.

    • The planning and zoning fee schedule is dated July 23, 2012 and may not reflect a newer schedule.
    • The county environmental-health page publishes septic and well fees of $200 and $75.

    rezoning fee: 150 USD · preliminary plat fee: 0 USD (No charge) · final plat fee: 300 USD · septic permit fee: 200 USD · well permit fee: 75 USD

    “Rezoning Fee $150.00 Subdivision Platting Fee Preliminary Plat Final Plat No Charge $300.00”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Worth County zoning permits and related planning actions.
      “The following fees are charged for zoning permits and are based on the proposed cost of the erection, construction or structural alteration”
    • Published (with conditions) — Published Worth County permit and application fees identified in official sources.
      “Septic Permits $200.00 [...] Well Permits $75.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Worth County zoning-certificate and related application process.

    • Applicants must provide a sketch, drawing, or plat in duplicate, drawn to scale, showing lot dimensions and the size, shape, and location of the proposed building.
    • Petitions for rezoning, special permits, variances, and similar matters must be in writing and include the exact legal description, proposed use, disruption expected, and mitigation methods.
    • The Zoning Administrator must receive petitions at least twenty working days before a stated or special Zoning Commission meeting.

    minimum petition lead time: >= 20 working days (before a stated or special Zoning Commission meeting)

    “The Zoning Administrator must receive petitions at least twenty (20) working days prior to a stated or special meeting of the Zoning Commission.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning certificate/building permit process and related zoning applications.
      “Certificate of Zoning Compliance Building Permit Please send completed forms to [email protected].”
    • Partial — County zoning and building-permit process.
      “All the persons proposing construction, re-construction, alterations, use or change of use, should first contact the administrative officer to determine the application of the ordinance to their proposals.”
    • Partial — Worth County planning, zoning, building-permit, septic, and well-permit process information published by the county.
      “Septic and well permits are required by state law and are obtained through the Worth County Sanitarian (641-220-3460). All the persons proposing construction, re-construction, alterations, use or change of use, should first contact the administrative officer to determine the application of the ordinance to their proposals.”

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.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Private sewage disposal systems serving buildings with one through four dwelling units, before qualifying ownership transfers statewide.

    • Inspection is required before transfer of ownership, including seller-financed real estate contracts.
    • The county recorder may not record the deed or conveyance document without a certified inspector report, unless weather or temporary physical conditions prevent inspection and the buyer executes a binding acknowledgment.
    • The requirement applies to sale, exchange, real estate contract, or other purchase of real estate and improvements.
    • Exceptions include specified court-ordered, foreclosure-related, fiduciary, family, demolition, recently installed system, partition, tax-sale, low-consideration, and qualifying family-entity transfers.
    • The septic tank must be opened and pumped at inspection, unless evidence shows it was properly pumped within three years before inspection by a licensed commercial septic tank cleaner.
    • A failing system must be renovated; a properly treating system without an unsanitary condition need not meet current construction standards.
    • Only a department-certified inspector may conduct the inspection.
    • An inspection is valid for two years for ownership transfers during that period.

    dwelling units: 1-4 · inspection validity: 2 years (for ownership transfers during that period) · prior septic pumping evidence: <= 3 years (must be by a department-licensed commercial septic tank cleaner) · civil penalty for fraudulent report: 5000 USD (and certification suspension for one year)

    “If a building where a person resides, congregates, or is employed is served by a private sewage disposal system, the sewage disposal system serving the building shall be inspected prior to any transfer of ownership of the building.”
  • 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.

  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in Worth County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy in Worth County, including unincorporated areas
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Worth 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 Worth County, Iowa

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

Worth County scores 48/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: higher long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: workable self-sufficiency basics (35.8″/yr rainfall).

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

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

Land in Worth County runs about $9,241 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Worth County?

Worth County gets about 35.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 14.3% of years.

How remote is Worth County?

A representative private-land location has about 50,072 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,926,670 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 Worth compares in Iowa

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