Bolthole Index

Effingham County, Illinois

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Effingham County, Illinois

73Index Score / 100
#14 of 102 in Illinois

Unincorporated Effingham County, Illinois does not require a county building permit or certificate of occupancy, and the county has no countywide zoning ordinance123. Municipal zoning and subdivision authority may reach land within one and one-half miles of a city, so confirm jurisdiction with the adjacent municipality before building45. Septic systems and potable wells require separate Health Department permits67.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required by the county in unincorporated Effingham County; nearby municipal jurisdiction may change the answer8910
Zoning
No countywide zoning; municipal zoning varies and may extend 1.5 miles beyond city limits34
Septic permit
Required from the Effingham County Health Department before a new system, alteration or extension1112
RV and tiny-home living
Allowed as a matter of county zoning in unincorporated areas, subject to municipal jurisdiction and other applicable rules1314
Owner-builder
Available because the county requires no building permit in unincorporated areas; trade licensing may still apply1516
Road setbacks
90 feet from the centerline of most county and state highways; 40 feet is recommended along township roads917
Lot and home limits
No county zoning-based home-size or lot-coverage limit; subdivision lot minimums still apply18192021
Private well
County Health Department permit required before constructing or deepening a potable well7

Who to call

Roads & driveways

Effingham County Highway Department

County no-zoning and no-building-permit guidance, county road setbacks, and contacts for county and township right-of-way approvals

(217) 342-6550

101 N. Fourth St., Ste. 304 Effingham, Illinois 62401

Septic permits

Effingham County Health Department, Environmental Health

Private sewage disposal plan review, construction permits, system inspections, and complaints

(217) 342-9237

901 W Virginia Ave, Effingham, IL

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 4, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Effingham 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 Effingham County, Illinois?

No county building permit or certificate of occupancy is required for ordinary construction in unincorporated Effingham County, Illinois12. That answer may change inside a municipality or within a municipality's one-and-one-half-mile extraterritorial area, so ask the adjacent municipality whether it has jurisdiction over the parcel4. The Illinois Code Directory reports that Effingham County adopted a National Fire Prevention Association building code in 1999 without local amendments, but the directory does not specify its scope or enforcement process22. Illinois also established statewide building-code baseline requirements effective in 202523. New or substantially improved commercial buildings in a jurisdiction without an adopted building code need a qualified inspector's compliance statement; that rule does not establish a residential inspection requirement24. Ask the Highway Department which standards apply even though the county issues no ordinary building permit2526. An owner may build their own home on unincorporated land because there is no county building-permit process from which to seek an exemption, although trade-specific rules may still apply16.

Who handles building permits and road work in Effingham County?

Effingham County has no building department issuing permits for ordinary construction on unincorporated land; the Effingham County Highway Department is the practical first call to confirm the no-permit answer and address road issues2526. The county Transportation Committee reviews subdivisions outside municipal and municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction, and a final plat must be approved and recorded before a subdivision lot is conveyed275. A land division intended solely for agricultural use or production is excluded from the county ordinance's definition of a subdivision, unless it establishes or dedicates a public street or alley; state plat-filing rules may still apply28. Preliminary-plat review costs $100 plus $10 per lot, and separate public-improvement review and inspection fees may apply29. Work in a county or township right-of-way still needs approval; a county right-of-way applicant must notify the Highway Department at least 72 hours before construction and again when work is complete30. Subdivision access also needs written approval from the authority controlling the road31.

Does Effingham County have zoning?

Effingham County has no countywide zoning ordinance, but zoning varies by municipality34. Some municipalities exercise zoning and subdivision authority within one and one-half miles beyond their limits; the county specifically identifies possible municipal jurisdiction around Effingham and Teutopolis410. On land governed only by county rules, RV, tiny-home, manufactured-home and accessory-dwelling occupancy are allowed as a matter of county zoning13143233. County zoning sets neither a minimum dwelling size nor a lot-coverage limit there, though subdivision, septic, highway and airport rules still apply1819. Subdivision lots with both public or community sewer and public water need at least 12,000 square feet and 100 feet of width at the building line34. Most county and state highways have a 90-foot centerline setback; township roads have no stated setback, though the county recommends at least 40 feet3517. Structures near Effingham County Memorial Airport face height restrictions whose boundary and limits must be confirmed with the Illinois Division of Aeronautics36.

How do septic permits work in Effingham County?

The Effingham County Health Department administers private sewage disposal rules throughout the county1137. A valid Health Department permit is required before constructing, altering or extending an individual domestic sewage system, and the application must include site information and a complete system plan386. The initial permit costs $100, the department must act on an application within 15 days, and the permit becomes void after six months if construction has not begun6. A homeowner may install or service a system for the homeowner's own single-family residence; otherwise, the work requires a properly licensed contractor6. The department may refuse septic approval when a practical sanitary-sewer connection is available within 200 feet for a single-family home or within 1,000 feet for a commercial, subdivision or multifamily project6. Direct sewage disposal to a stream, ditch, ground surface, sinkhole or abandoned well is prohibited6. Only 4% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, making early soil and site review especially useful39.

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

RV and tiny-home occupancy, including temporary camping on private land, are allowed as a matter of county zoning in unincorporated Effingham County because the county has no zoning ordinance131440. The same county-zoning answer covers manufactured homes and accessory dwellings3233. These answers do not override municipal rules within Effingham, Teutopolis or their one-and-one-half-mile extra-territorial areas, nor do they remove septic and road requirements10129. A manufactured home moved since 1980 must use securing equipment that meets state standards, and installation must be by the homeowner or an Illinois-licensed installer under the manufacturer's instructions or state installation code41. Illinois campground rules can separately apply when a property hosts three or more camping shelters, or space for at least ten people camping for six or more days in a calendar year, subject to the stated home-rule exception42.

Building a home in Effingham County: what are the steps?

  1. Confirm that the parcel is unincorporated and ask the adjacent municipality whether its zoning or subdivision jurisdiction reaches the land45.
  1. Check subdivision lot standards: private sewage needs at least one acre of suitable land, while a lot with public or community sewer and public water needs at least 12,000 square feet and 100 feet of width2134.
  1. Submit the site details, system plan and $100 fee to the Effingham County Health Department before septic installation386.
  1. Obtain a County Health Department permit before constructing or deepening a potable well, and give at least 48 hours' notice before work begins7.
  1. Lay out the home at least 90 feet from most county or state highway centerlines; along a township road, treat 40 feet as guidance rather than a mandatory setback3517.
  1. Obtain the controlling road authority's approval before constructing subdivision access or working in a right-of-way3130.
  1. Build without a county building permit, but confirm applicable construction standards and any airport-height restriction1222336.

What should you check before buying land in Effingham County?

First, verify the boundary between county and municipal jurisdiction because municipal zoning and subdivision authority may extend one and one-half miles beyond city limits45. Review soils before relying on septic: only 4% of county soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field, and a new private sewage system requires Health Department approval396. Check whether the tract satisfies the applicable subdivision minimum: at least one acre of suitable land with private sewage, or at least 12,000 square feet and 100 feet of width with public or community sewer and public water2134. A reasonably accessible public sewer or water system may have to be extended through a subdivision, with a connection at each lot line when that utility is provided43. Confirm legal road access and identify the controlling highway authority before creating a subdivision entrance31. About 93% of county land has a slope of 15% or less, while about 22.3% is wooded4445. The typical home value is about $223,021, the effective property-tax rate is about 1.5%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $2,713464748. Effingham County's operative floodplain-development ordinance and administering office could not be confirmed, so ask county government which authority handles mapped flood hazard areas49.

Watch-outs

  • Municipal zoning varies and may extend one and one-half miles beyond city limits, so confirm jurisdiction before relying on the county's no-zoning rule4.
  • A house may need no county building permit while its septic system and any right-of-way work still require separate approval912.
  • Effingham County reports a building-code adoption from 1999 but no county permit process; residential inspections remain unconfirmed, while qualifying commercial work needs a qualified inspector's compliance statement2224.

Sources

  1. Effingham County Highway Department No-Zoning Letter, quoted and re-checked
  2. Effingham County Highway Department No-Zoning Letter, quoted and re-checked
  3. GIS & Maps - Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  4. GIS & Maps - Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  5. Subdivision Ordinance of Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  6. Effingham County Code, Title V: Public Works, quoted and re-checked
  7. Effingham County Code, Title V: Public Works, quoted and re-checked
  8. Effingham County Highway Department — No Zoning (2026 county census)
  9. Effingham County Highway Department — No Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  10. Effingham County No Zoning Letter, quoted and re-checked
  11. Effingham County Public Works Code, Chapters 50-51 (2026 county census)
  12. Effingham County Public Works Code, Chapters 50-51, quoted and re-checked
  13. Effingham County Highway Department — No Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  14. Effingham County Highway Department — No Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  15. Effingham County Highway Department — No Zoning (2026 county census)
  16. Illinois law on county zoning and building authority
  17. Effingham County Highway Department no-zoning letter, quoted and re-checked
  18. No Zoning Letter, quoted and re-checked
  19. Effingham County Highway Department no-zoning letter, quoted and re-checked
  20. Subdivision Ordinance of Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  21. Subdivision Ordinance of Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  22. Illinois Code Directory, quoted and re-checked
  23. Illinois Codes (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  24. Building Codes and Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  25. Effingham County Highway Department (effinghamcountyil.gov)
  26. Effingham County No Zoning Letter, quoted and re-checked
  27. Highway & Engineering Department, quoted and re-checked
  28. Subdivision Ordinance of Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  29. Subdivision Ordinance of Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  30. Highway & Engineering Department - Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  31. Subdivision Ordinance of Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  32. Effingham County Highway Department — No Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  33. Effingham County Highway Department — No Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  34. Subdivision Ordinance of Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  35. Effingham County Highway Department no-zoning letter, quoted and re-checked
  36. No Zoning Letter, quoted and re-checked
  37. Effingham County Public Works Code, Chapters 50-51, quoted and re-checked
  38. Effingham County Health Department, Environmental Health (effcohealth.org)
  39. 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
  40. Effingham County Highway Department — No Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  41. Manufactured & Modular Homes/Mobile Structures, quoted and re-checked
  42. Youth Camps and Campgrounds, quoted and re-checked
  43. Subdivision Ordinance of Effingham County, Illinois, quoted and re-checked
  44. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  45. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  46. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data
  47. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  48. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  49. Permit Program (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 4, 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

RuleEffingham CountyClay CountyJasper CountyFayette CountyCumberland CountyShelby CountyMarion County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredRequiredLimited
County zoningNoNoNoYesNoYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.Shelby CountyCounty Health Dept.

County locator

Effingham County in Illinois

73
County map
Effingham County highlighted among the Illinois counties · colored by Index score

How Effingham County scores

Seclusion49100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency67100% ev.
Admin Boringness91100% ev.
Durability66100% ev.
Property Autonomy42100% 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 →

$223kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$7,723Land / acre
44"Annual rain
2.1% of yrsSevere drought
10.3 / yr (+9.4)Mid-century 100°F days
14.8 daysMid-century dry spell
1.9" (+9.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.85×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,545Home insurance / yr
4.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.65%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
31,412People within 30 min
3,195,719People within 2 hr
32,492Radius comparison (15 mi)
71.7People / sq mi
0%Federal land
93%Land at 15% slope or less
4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
12,233 acWorkable land screen
22.3%Wooded land
40.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
54.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Effingham 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: Altamont · Banner Township · Village of Beecher City · Bishop Township · Douglas Township · Village of Edgewood · Effingham · Jackson Township · Liberty Township · Lucas Township · Town of Mason · Mason Township · Moccasin Township · Village of Montrose · Mound Township · Village of Shumway · St. Francis Township · Summit Township · Village of Teutopolis · Union Township · Watson Township · Village of Watson · West Township

Answers from the rulebook for Effingham County

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

Effingham County rules

  • Building permitNot required

    Building permits for construction in unincorporated areas of Effingham County, Illinois.

    • Zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within the one-and-one-half-mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, under municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction; the source recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify jurisdiction.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline.
    • No building setbacks exist along township roads, but the source recommends staying at least 40 feet from the centerline.
    • Permits and/or approvals are required for work located in County and Township rights-of-way.
    • Height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport, approximately one mile south of Effingham; the source directs applicants to contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics.

    setback along most County and State Highways: 90 feet from centerline · recommended setback along township roads: >= 40 feet from centerline (The source states that no building setbacks exist along township roads and gives this as a recommendation.)

    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Building permits for construction in unincorporated areas of Effingham County.
      “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
    • Not required — Building permits for projects in unincorporated areas of Effingham County.
      “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Effingham County: no county building permit is required, so there is no permit to be exempt from and you may build your own home. State licensing for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work may still apply.

    • Zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within the one-and-one-half-mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, under municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction; the source recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify jurisdiction.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline.
    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    The Illinois Code Directory reports an Effingham County building code adopted in 1999, identified as the National Fire Prevention Association code, without local amendments.

    • The county's official letter states that building permits and certificates of occupancy are not required in unincorporated areas, although municipal jurisdiction may apply in incorporated areas and within one and one-half miles of incorporated areas.
    • Illinois states that, effective 2025-01-01, statewide building-code requirements apply according to the applicable statutory framework and that local code officials determine the precise requirements.
    • The directory entry is a state-maintained report of the county's adopted code and does not itself specify the code's substantive scope or enforcement process.

    reported adoption year: 1999 year · local amendments: No

    “Effingham County 1999 Building Code National Fire Prevention Association No”
  • Certificate of occupancyNot required

    Certificate-of-occupancy permits for construction in unincorporated areas of Effingham County, Illinois.

    • Zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within the one-and-one-half-mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, under municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction; the source recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify jurisdiction.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline.
    • No building setbacks exist along township roads, but the source recommends staying at least 40 feet from the centerline.
    • Permits and/or approvals are required for work located in County and Township rights-of-way.
    • Height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport, approximately one mile south of Effingham; the source directs applicants to contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics.

    setback along most County and State Highways: 90 feet from centerline · recommended setback along township roads: >= 40 feet from centerline (The source states that no building setbacks exist along township roads and gives this as a recommendation.)

    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Certificate-of-occupancy permits for construction in unincorporated areas of Effingham County.
      “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
    • Not required — Certificate-of-occupancy permits for projects in unincorporated areas of Effingham County.
      “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County-administered zoning across Effingham County, with the county statement understood subject to incorporated municipal zoning and municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction.

    • The county states that municipalities may provide zoning information and that some municipalities exercise zoning and subdivision jurisdiction up to 1 ½ miles outside their corporate limits.
    • The county's Highway Department states that incorporated areas and the one-and-one-half-mile radius around Effingham and Teutopolis may be subject to municipal jurisdiction.
    “Although Effingham County does not have zoning, the following conditions exist:”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning status across Effingham County: the county itself reports no county zoning, while incorporated municipalities and some municipal extraterritorial areas may administer zoning.

    • Municipalities must be contacted for zoning questions.
    • Some municipalities exercise zoning and subdivision jurisdiction up to 1 ½ miles outside their corporate limits.
    • The county Highway Department identifies Effingham and Teutopolis as examples where municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction may apply.

    municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction radius: 1.5 miles (Some municipalities may exercise zoning and subdivision jurisdiction within this radius.)

    “Please contact the municipality for Zoning questions. Please note some municipalities exercise Zoning and Subdivision Jurisdiction up to 1 ½ miles outside their Corporate Limits.”
  • Zoning districtsNot published (with conditions)

    County zoning districts in unincorporated Effingham County.

    • The source states that zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County.
    • Zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within a one-and-one-half-mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, through municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • The source recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify jurisdiction at the proposed project location.

    municipal extra-territorial radius: 1.5 miles (from incorporated areas identified by the source)

    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    County zoning-based minimum dwelling-size requirements for dwellings in unincorporated Effingham County.

    • Zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within one and one-half mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, which enforce their extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • The county letter recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify whether it has jurisdiction at the proposed project location.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline of the highway.
    • No building setbacks exist along township roads, but the county recommends staying at least 40 feet from the centerline of the road with improvements.
    • Permits and/or approvals are required for work located in County and Township rights-of-way.
    • Height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport, approximately one mile south of Effingham; the county directs applicants to contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics.
    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in Effingham County subdivisions served by individual private sewage disposal systems.

    • The land must be suitable.
    • The lot must comply with applicable county regulations, Illinois Department of Public Health requirements, and the general mandates in Section 106.
    • The county ordinance states that private sewage system design and installation must follow the Private Sewage Disposal System Ordinance enforced by the Effingham County Health Department.

    minimum lot area: >= 1 acre (individual private sewage systems; suitable land required)

    “508.1 Lot Sizes and Density: Individual private sewage systems shall be installed on at least one (1) acre of suitable land and in accordance with all applicable County ordinances and regulations as well as those of the Illinois Department of Public Health and the general mandates set forth in Section 106 of this ordinance.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Lots in subdivisions served by public or community sewage disposal systems and a public water supply in unincorporated Effingham County.
      “public water supply shall have an area of not less than twelve thousand (12,000) square feet”
    • Specified — Lots in Effingham County subdivisions served by public or community sewage disposal systems and a public water supply.
      “Lots serviced by private sewage disposal systems shall meet the requirements of Section 508.2. Lots serviced by public or community sewage disposal systems and public water supply shall have an area of not less than twelve thousand (12,000) square feet and a minimum width of one hundred (100) feet at the building line.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Building setbacks along most Effingham County highways and State highways.

    • The stated distance is measured from the centerline of the highway.
    • The letter qualifies the rule with the word 'most'.
    • Municipal zoning or extra-territorial jurisdiction may apply in incorporated areas and within one-and-one-half miles of incorporated areas.

    building setback: 90 feet from highway centerline (most County Highways and State Highways)

    “The building set back along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline of the highway;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Lot coverageNone

    County zoning-based lot-coverage requirements in unincorporated Effingham County.

    • Zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within a one-and-one-half-mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, through municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • Subdivision, septic, highway, airport, and other non-zoning requirements may still apply.
    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required. Although Effingham County does not have zoning, the following conditions exist:”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Height restrictions affecting structures near Effingham County Memorial Airport in Effingham County, Illinois.

    • The Effingham County official letter states that height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport, located approximately one mile south of Effingham.
    • The county directs persons to contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics regarding those restrictions.
    • IDOT states that its Division of Aeronautics regulates and supervises aeronautics within Illinois.
    • The applicable restriction boundary, numeric height limit, permit process, and exceptions were not specified in the county letter or the opened IDOT page and must be confirmed with the Division of Aeronautics.
    “Height restrictions do exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport located approximately one mile south of Effingham.”
  • Living in an RVAllowed

    RV occupancy on private land in unincorporated Effingham County, as regulated by county zoning.

    • This conclusion is limited to the absence of county zoning; zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within a one and one-half mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, which enforce extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • The County recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify that it does not have jurisdiction at the proposed project location.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline of the highway.
    • Although no building setbacks exist along township roads, the County recommends staying at least 40 feet from the centerline of the road with improvements.
    • Permits and/or approvals are required for work located in County and Township rights-of-way.
    • Height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport; contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics regarding those restrictions.
    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
  • Camping on your landAllowed

    Temporary camping on private land in unincorporated Effingham County, as regulated by county zoning.

    • This conclusion is limited to the absence of county zoning; zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within a one and one-half mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, which enforce extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • The County recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify that it does not have jurisdiction at the proposed project location.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline of the highway.
    • Although no building setbacks exist along township roads, the County recommends staying at least 40 feet from the centerline of the road with improvements.
    • Permits and/or approvals are required for work located in County and Township rights-of-way.
    • Height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport; contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics regarding those restrictions.
    “Although Effingham County does not have zoning, the following conditions exist:”
  • Tiny homesAllowed

    Tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated Effingham County, as regulated by county zoning.

    • This conclusion is limited to the absence of county zoning; zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within a one and one-half mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, which enforce extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • The County recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify that it does not have jurisdiction at the proposed project location.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline of the highway.
    • Although no building setbacks exist along township roads, the County recommends staying at least 40 feet from the centerline of the road with improvements.
    • Permits and/or approvals are required for work located in County and Township rights-of-way.
    • Height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport; contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics regarding those restrictions.
    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed

    Manufactured-home occupancy in unincorporated Effingham County, as regulated by county zoning.

    • This conclusion is limited to the absence of county zoning; zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within a one and one-half mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, which enforce extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • The County recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify that it does not have jurisdiction at the proposed project location.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline of the highway.
    • Although no building setbacks exist along township roads, the County recommends staying at least 40 feet from the centerline of the road with improvements.
    • Permits and/or approvals are required for work located in County and Township rights-of-way.
    • Height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport; contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics regarding those restrictions.
    “This letter states zoning does not currently exist in Effingham County; therefore, building permits or ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ permits in unincorporated areas of Effingham County are not required.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed

    Accessory-dwelling occupancy in unincorporated Effingham County, as regulated by county zoning.

    • This conclusion is limited to the absence of county zoning; zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within a one and one-half mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, which enforce extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • The County recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify that it does not have jurisdiction at the proposed project location.
    • The building setback along most County Highways and State Highways is 90 feet from the centerline of the highway.
    • Although no building setbacks exist along township roads, the County recommends staying at least 40 feet from the centerline of the road with improvements.
    • Permits and/or approvals are required for work located in County and Township rights-of-way.
    • Height restrictions exist around the Effingham County Memorial Airport; contact the Illinois Division of Aeronautics regarding those restrictions.
    “Although Effingham County does not have zoning, the following conditions exist:”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Private sewage disposal systems within Effingham County.

    • The county code adopts and enforces the Illinois Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act and Code, 225 ILCS 225, as amended.
    • The administering authority is the Effingham County Health Department.
    “HEALTH DEPARTMENT. The Effingham County Health Department, including its duly authorized representative(s). [...] All applications for permits granted under the provision of this chapter shall be made to the Health Department.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, or extension of individual domestic sewage disposal systems in Effingham County.

    • A valid permit issued by the Health Department is required before construction, alteration, or extension.
    • Applications must be made to the Health Department.
    • A permit may be issued only to a homeowner or licensed private sewage disposal system installation contractor.
    • The application must include the applicant and site information and a complete plan of the proposed disposal facility.
    • The Health Department may refuse a permit where sanitary sewer is available; availability includes a sewer within an adjoining or abutting right-of-way or practical public sewer distance of not more than 200 feet for a single-family residence or 1,000 feet for a commercial establishment, subdivision, or multifamily dwelling.
    • Applications must be acted upon within 15 days.
    • The construction permit is valid for six months; if construction has not started, it is void.
    • The initial construction, alteration, or extension permit fee is $100 and is collected when the application is submitted.
    • Routine cleaning, replacement of septic tank covers, and rodding inlet and outlets do not require a construction permit.
    • The code was adopted by Ordinance 04-106, passed October 18, 2014.

    permit fee: 100 USD (initial construction, alteration, or extension of an individual sewage system) · single-family sewer availability distance: <= 200 feet (sanitary sewer connection must be practical and permitted by the controlling sewer authority) · commercial, subdivision, or multifamily sewer availability distance: <= 1000 feet (sanitary sewer connection must be practical and permitted by the controlling sewer authority) · application decision time: <= 15 days · permit validity: 6 months (void if construction has not started)

    “It shall be unlawful for any person to construct, alter or extend individual domestic sewage disposal systems within the county unless he or she holds a valid permit issued by the Health Department stating the name of such person for which the specific construction, alteration or extension is proposed.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Inspection and compliance access for private sewage disposal systems in Effingham County.

    • The owner or occupant must give the Health Department free access at reasonable times for inspections necessary to determine compliance.
    • The county code does not state that every installation receives a separate routine inspection; it expressly authorizes compliance inspections.
    • The Health Department may seek an administrative search warrant if access is denied.
    • The code was adopted by Ordinance 04-106, passed October 18, 2014.
    “It shall be the duty of the owner or occupant of a property to give the Health Department free access at reasonable times to any property that has a private sewage disposal system on it for the purpose of making such inspections as are necessary to determine compliance with the requirements of this chapter.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Individual domestic and private sewage disposal systems in Effingham County.

    • Construction, alteration, or extension requires a valid permit issued by the Effingham County Health Department.
    • Permit applications must be made to the Health Department and include the applicant/site information and a complete plan of the proposed disposal facility.
    • The Health Department may refuse a permit where a sanitary sewer is available. Availability includes a sewer line adjoining or abutting the premises, or a practical and permitted public sewer within 200 feet for a single-family residence or within 1,000 feet for a commercial establishment, subdivision, or multi-family dwelling.
    • The Health Department must act on applications within 15 days of receipt.
    • The construction permit is valid for six months from issuance and is void if construction has not started within that period.
    • The initial construction, alteration, or extension permit fee is $100.
    • Private systems must be installed, modified, or serviced by a properly licensed contractor, except that a homeowner may install or service a system serving the homeowner's own personal single-family residence.
    • Surface-discharge systems may not discharge directly into a body of water where full body contact activities are allowed; a discharge within 75 feet is treated as direct.
    • Direct disposal to a stream, ditch, ground surface, sink hole, or abandoned well is prohibited.
    • The code identifies Ord. 04-106 as passed on 10-18-2014.

    single-family sewer availability distance: <= 200 feet (single-family residence) · commercial, subdivision, or multifamily sewer availability distance: <= 1000 feet (commercial establishment, subdivision, or multi-family dwelling) · initial permit fee: 100 USD (initial construction, alteration, or extension permit) · permit decision period: 15 days (from receipt of application) · construction permit validity: 6 months (from date of issuance; void if construction has not started) · minimum lot size for residential structure requiring private sewage disposal: >= 1 acre (or county subdivision ordinance requirement, whichever is greater) · surface discharge distance from full-body-contact water: < 75 feet (within this distance is considered direct discharge)

    “The Health Department may refuse to grant a permit [...] where a sanitary sewage system is available.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction or deepening of potable water wells in Effingham County.

    • A permit must be obtained from the County Health Department before construction of a potable water well.
    • The county adopts and enforces the Illinois Water Well Construction Code and Illinois Water Well Pump Installation Code by reference.
    • The permit requirement does not apply to wells intended to serve a community public water supply system or to monitoring wells.
    • A non-community public water supply may not be operated without a permit from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
    • Permit applications must be in writing on the form prescribed by the County Health Department.
    • The permit cost is the current state fee for the same permit.
    • The County Health Department must be notified by telephone or in writing at least 48 hours before work begins on construction or deepening of a permitted water well, or sealing a water well, boring, or monitoring well.
    • Water-well constructors and pump installers must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

    advance work notification: >= 48 hours (before commencement of permitted water-well construction or deepening, or sealing work) · permit cost: current state fee for the same permit

    “The requirement for permit in this chapter shall not be applicable to wells intended to serve a community public water supply system, and to monitoring wells.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Subdivisions within the area of Effingham County jurisdiction, subject to overlapping municipal jurisdiction.

    • The rule applies to proposed subdivisions reasonably accessible to a public sewage system and/or water distribution system.
    • The subdivider must provide a complete sanitary sewage system and/or water distribution system only when a permit can be secured from the public agency.
    • All proposed water and sanitary sewage facilities must comply with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency requirements and recommendations.
    • Community sanitary sewer systems and treatment plants require approval by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the County Administrative Officer.
    • Community systems will be required when private sewage discharges may endanger public health or when required by state regulations.
    • Individual private sewage systems must comply with the applicable county ordinance or Illinois Department of Public Health regulations, whichever is more stringent.
    • The county ordinance states that its rules apply as permitted by state statutes and that overlapping jurisdiction is determined between the county and municipality. Municipalities may approve subdivision plats within one and one-half miles of their corporate limits when the statutory conditions apply.
    • Where a community or public sanitary sewage system is provided, each subdivision lot must have a connection at the property line; where a private or public water system is provided, each lot must have a connection at the property line.

    sanitary sewer collection line minimum diameter: >= 8 inches · individual private sewage system minimum suitable land: >= 1 acre

    “When a proposed subdivision is reasonably accessible [...] the subdivider shall provide [...] when a permit can be secured from the public agency.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A division of land into two or more lots or parcels intended solely for agricultural use or production.

    • The ordinance definition excludes divisions for agricultural use or production from the defined term 'subdivision'.
    • Establishment or dedication of a public street or alley through a tract is treated as a subdivision regardless of size.
    • Other State of Illinois plat-filing requirements may still apply.
    “other than agricultural use or production”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision developments in Effingham County that are not covered by a municipality or municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction.

    • The Transportation Committee serves as the subdivision committee for developments not covered under a municipality or municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction.
    • A municipality with an adopted subdivision ordinance and comprehensive plan may approve subdivision plats within one and one-half miles of its corporate limits.
    • No plat is required for division into parcels or tracts of five acres or more without new streets or access easements, provided no lot violates the ordinance.
    • No plat is required for division of lots or blocks of less than one acre in a recorded subdivision without new streets or access easements, provided no lot violates the ordinance.
    • No plat is required for exchanges between adjoining and contiguous landowners if no violating lot is created.
    • No plat is required for certain railroad, utility, highway, public-purpose, corrective-description, court-order, and public-use conveyances without new streets or access easements.
    • A sale or exchange following division into no more than two parts of a parcel existing on July 17, 1959 is exempt if no new street or access easement is involved.
    • A single lot of less than five acres may be sold from a larger tract with a licensed professional land surveyor survey, but the exemption does not apply to subsequent lots from the same larger tract as configured on October 1, 1973.
    • Other instances where Illinois law does not require filing of a plat are exempt.

    preliminary plat review response period: 45 days (If comments are not received within 45 days, the ordinance states the reviewing units are assumed to have no objections.) · preliminary plat approval period: 1 year (The applicant may submit all or parts for final approval during this period; staged development may be delayed by written agreement up to five years from preliminary approval.) · minimum penalty for selling or leasing a noncompliant lot: >= 500 USD per lot, block, or part thereof (Separate offense each day the violation continues.)

    “The Transportation Committee (road and bridge) also serves as the subdivision committee for developments within the County that is not covered under a municipality or the municipalities extra-territorial jurisdiction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and platting of land within Effingham County's county subdivision jurisdiction.
      “No plat of any subdivision shall be valid nor entitled to record unless and until same has been approved by the Effingham County Board in accordance with the procedure hereinafter provided, and no plat of any subdivision shall be approved without compliance with the standards of design and improvements required as hereinafter set forth.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Access from public highways to lots, streets, roadways, alleys, or other facilities in proposed subdivisions in unincorporated Effingham County.

    • A subdivider must obtain and submit written approval from the appropriate highway authority before constructing access.
    • For County Highways, the approving authority is the County Engineer; for Road District Roads, it is the Township Highway Commissioner; for State or Federal Highways, it is the appropriate State or Federal authority.
    • Private entrances adjacent to township roads, county roads, or state highways must meet road-frontage thresholds based on post-development average daily traffic.
    • A non-access highway may require a service road with at least 60 feet of right-of-way, with connections jointly approved by the Administrative Officer and Illinois Department of Transportation.

    road frontage for 250 ADT or less: >= 100 feet · road frontage for 251 to 750 ADT: >= 250 feet · road frontage for 751 ADT and more: >= 660 feet (one-eighth mile) · service-road right-of-way where required: >= 60 feet (for qualifying non-access highways)

    “the subdivider shall be required to obtain and submit to the Administrative Officer a written approval”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    County subdivision preliminary-plat review and public-improvement inspection fees for developments not covered by a municipality or municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction.

    • The preliminary-plat review fee is collected before initiation of the review process.
    • Public-improvement inspection and plan-review fees are paid by the developer.
    • The stated fees do not cover fees assessed by other departments or agencies.

    preliminary plat review fee: 100 USD (plus $10 per lot) · public-improvement inspection and plan-review fee: 1% of total estimated cost or $500.00, whichever is less USD

    “One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) plus Ten Dollars ($10.00) per lot.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Subdivision review and County Highway right-of-way work in unincorporated Effingham County where municipal jurisdiction does not apply.

    • The County Transportation Committee serves as subdivision committee only for developments not covered by a municipality or municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction.
    • County Highway right-of-way permits do not authorize work within Township rights-of-way.
    • ROW applicants must notify the County Highway Department at least 72 hours before construction and again at completion.
    • The Highway Department may request bonding; the permit work must be completed within the applicant-requested period approved by the Highway Department, or the permit is null and void.

    advance construction notice: >= 72 hours · permit return deadline after completion: 30 days

    “The Applicant shall notify the Effingham County Highway Department a minimum of 72 hours prior to construction of said facility”

Illinois rules that apply here

  • InspectionsRequired

    New or substantially improved commercial buildings in Illinois jurisdictions that have not adopted a building code, including when the state overlay applies to a non-building-code jurisdiction in Effingham County.

    • Applies to commercial buildings in jurisdictions that have not adopted a building code.
    • A qualified inspector must inspect the building and state that it complies with the listed codes.
    • The Illinois Capital Development Board states that the State itself does not perform inspections for privately funded construction; if required, the obligation is addressed by the unit of local government.
    • New residential construction is treated separately under the Illinois Residential Building Code Act and is not established by this claim.
    “Commercial buildings in jurisdictions that have not adopted a building code AND state funded buildings. [...] Non-state buildings must be inspected by a qualified inspector stating the building complies with the above codes.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Building-code-compliance inspections performed by the State of Illinois for privately funded construction.
      “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
    • Limited — Privately funded construction statewide in Illinois, as to inspections performed by the State rather than by a local authority having jurisdiction.
      “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction activities in regulated Illinois floodways and, where a floodway has not been delineated, generally work anywhere in the floodplain.

    • For downstate streams, IDNR Division permitting applies to floodways of streams draining at least one square mile in urban areas or ten square miles in rural areas.
    • In northeastern Illinois, Part 3708 applies to identified floodways in Cook County excluding Chicago, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties.
    • Some minor activities are automatically authorized by statewide or regional permits if their terms and conditions are met.
    • For State-owned property, Part 3710 requires a permit for all development activity in FEMA-mapped floodplains.

    urban stream drainage area threshold: >= 1 square mile (regulated floodways under Part 3700) · rural stream drainage area threshold: >= 10 square miles (regulated floodways under Part 3700)

    “All construction activities in the floodways of streams (the channel and the adjacent portion of the floodplain that is needed to safely convey and store flood waters) in urban areas where the stream drainage area is one square mile or more or in rural areas where the stream drainage area is ten square miles or more must be permitted by the Division prior to construction.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals in Illinois where at least one room is rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days and accommodations are reserved in advance, when the hosting platform meets the statutory definition of a re-renter.

    • Beginning July 1, 2025, qualifying hosting platforms are subject to Hotel Operators’ Occupation Tax.
    • The source establishes tax and registration obligations, not statewide land-use permission; local zoning and licensing may separately apply.

    rental period: < 30 consecutive days

    “Beginning July 1, 2025, hosting platforms for short-term rentals that meet the definition of “re-renter” are subject to Hotel Operators’ Occupation Tax.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping operations in Illinois, including Effingham County, that meet the State's campground definition.

    • IDPH annually inspects and licenses campgrounds in Illinois.
    • The threshold is three or more tents, cabins, recreational vehicles, or other shelters erected and maintained for camping, or space for camping, temporary RV parking, or shelters for 10 or more persons for six or more camping days during a calendar year.
    • Campgrounds within home rule units of government are exempt.
    • IDPH reviews construction plans for all new campgrounds and for major expansions or alterations of existing ones.

    camping shelters threshold: >= 3 tents, cabins, recreational vehicles, or other shelters (When erected and maintained for camping.) · person threshold: >= 10 persons (For camping, temporary RV parking, or placement of shelters for six or more camping days during a calendar year.) · camping days threshold: >= 6 camping days per calendar year (Applies with the 10-or-more-person threshold.)

    “State law requires the IDPH to annually inspect and license campgrounds in Illinois. The Campground Licensing and Recreational Area Act defines campground as a recreational area where three or more tents, cabins, recreational vehicles or other permanent or non-permanent type shelters are erected and maintained for camping or where space is provided for camping, temporary parking of recreational vehicles or placing of such tents, cabins, recreational vehicles or other permanent or non-permanent type shelters of any kind for 10 or more persons for six or more camping days during a calendar year.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Overnight camping in Illinois campgrounds subject to the Campground Licensing and Recreational Area Act.
      ““Camping Day” means any 24 hour period or portion thereof during which the participants remain overnight at the site.”
  • county building authorityLimited

    County building-construction and building-code regulation, including residential structures, in counties meeting the statutory population and metropolitan-area conditions.

    • The county must have a population not in excess of 1,000,000.
    • The county must be located in the area served by the Northeastern Illinois Metropolitan Area Planning Commission.
    • Rules are subject to rules or regulations adopted by the State Fire Marshal under the cited gasoline and volatile-oils statute.
    • The county must exempt municipalities located wholly or partly within the county when the municipal building code is equal to the county regulation and local authorities are enforcing that municipal code.
    • The rules apply throughout the county, but municipalities may establish higher standards.
    • The rules do not apply to construction or alteration of buildings or structures used or to be used for agricultural purposes on a tract zoned and used for agricultural purposes.
    • The county board must follow the publication and posting requirements in 55 ILCS 5/5-1063.
    • Beginning on the effective date of the amendatory Act of the 92nd General Assembly, a county adopting a new building code or amending an existing building code must provide the building-code identification to the Capital Development Board under Section 10.18 at least 30 days before adoption.
    • Violations are petty offenses, and enforcement is by an officer designated by county-board resolution.
    • The provision expressly authorizes county building-construction and building-code rules, but the opened text does not expressly use the phrase residential building permit requirement.

    population threshold: <= 1000000 persons (The county must be located in the area served by the Northeastern Illinois Metropolitan Area Planning Commission.) · pre-adoption identification period: >= 30 days (Applies to a new building code or amendment under the stated amendatory-Act provision.)

    “The county board in any county with a population not in excess of 1,000,000 located in the area served by the Northeastern Illinois Metropolitan Area Planning Commission may prescribe by resolution or ordinance reasonable rules and regulations (a) governing the construction and alteration of all buildings and structures and parts and appurtenances thereof and governing the maintenance thereof in a condition reasonably safe from the hazards of fire, explosion, collapse, contagion and the spread of infectious disease”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Illinois counties adopting and enforcing building codes and issuing building permits for residential construction in unincorporated areas, subject to the statewide baseline framework.
      “A municipality or county is not required to adopt building codes. If they do NOT adopt a building code then they are considered a non-building code jurisdiction and section 10.09-1 of the Capital Development Board Act (20 ILCS 3105) applies. If they do adopt a building code(s) then it must comply with section 10.18 of the Capital Development Board Act (20 ILCS 3105).”

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 Effingham County, Illinois

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

Effingham County scores 73/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and workable self-sufficiency basics (44″/yr rainfall).

Do you need a building permit in Effingham County, Illinois?

Effingham County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Effingham County Health Department (under Illinois DPH). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Effingham County is allowed: RV occupancy on private land in unincorporated Effingham County, as regulated by county zoning. This conclusion is limited to the absence of county zoning; zoning may exist in incorporated areas and within a one and one-half mile radius of incorporated areas, including Effingham and Teutopolis, which enforce extra-territorial jurisdiction. The County recommends contacting the adjacent municipality to verify that it does not have jurisdiction at the proposed project location. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Effingham County, Illinois?

Land in Effingham County runs about $7,723 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Effingham County?

Effingham County gets about 44" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.1% of years.

How remote is Effingham County?

A representative private-land location has about 31,412 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,195,719 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 Effingham compares in Illinois

Compare side-by-side →See all 102 Illinois counties ranked →