Bolthole Index

Menard County, Illinois

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

60Index Score / 100
#55 of 102 in Illinois

Unincorporated Menard County, Illinois requires building permits for construction or placement of structures, with limited agricultural exceptions1. County zoning also covers villages without their own ordinances, but the county does not administer ordinances in Athens, Greenview or Petersburg23. Septic and well permits come through the Sangamon County public health program serving Menard County4. Occupancy requires completed construction and final well, septic and site-development approvals5.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for construction or placement of structures, with limited agricultural exceptions1
Zoning
County zoning covers unincorporated land and villages without their own ordinances2
Septic permit
Required when applicable; Sangamon County public health provides the program for Menard County67
RV living
Not allowed as a dwelling except in lawfully established commercial campgrounds; temporary exceptions need Board approval89
Tiny home
At least 400 square feet of habitable floor area as a dwelling; a tiny home classed as an RV cannot be a home108
Agricultural buildings
Limited agricultural exemptions; owner affidavit, site plan and setback compliance still matter1112
Private well
A permit is required before construction, modification or sealing13

Who to call

Zoning

Menard County Zoning Office

Building and zoning applications, subdivision review, and county flood-prevention questions

(217)632-5123

jcrowe@menardcountyil.gov

101 East Jefferson, Menard County Courthouse Annex, Petersburg, Illinois 62675

Septic permits

Menard County Health Department

Local contact for private sewage disposal and potable-water services

(217)535-3102

One Centre Drive, Petersburg, Illinois 62675

Roads & driveways

Menard County Highway Department

County-highway questions and entrance-culvert permits; road-district contacts for district roads

(217) 632-2722

menardhwy1@sbcglobal.net

15620 Chautauqua Road, Petersburg, Illinois 62675

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

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Menard 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 Menard County, Illinois?

In county-administered areas of Menard County, a building permit is required before a house, manufactured or modular home, portable building, pole barn, garage, carport, shed or container is built, moved or placed on land, subject to limited agricultural exceptions1. Menard County adopts the International Building Code with county amendments, alongside applicable state plumbing, energy and accessibility codes; where adopted codes conflict, the most stringent requirement applies1415. New-construction inspections are generally required, must be requested 48 hours ahead and require approved plans on site16. Occupancy approval requires completed construction and final well, septic and site-development approvals5. Agricultural exemptions require an owner affidavit and site plan for setbacks and floodplain compliance; agricultural land use and structures are separately exempt from the Development Code’s Development Permit, but other applicable requirements remain1117. Solely agricultural structures must meet district setbacks, and a change to non-agricultural use brings the other zoning provisions into play12.

Who handles building permits and zoning in Menard County?

The Menard County Zoning Office administers county zoning and subdivision ordinances and publishes the building-permit application18. Call (217)632-5123 or email jcrowe@menardcountyil.gov; the office is at 101 East Jefferson, Menard County Courthouse Annex, Petersburg, Illinois 6267518. The county application requires consultation about zoning, floodplain, subdivision, road access and applicable well and septic requirements, and the office may require proof of consultation19. The published 2024 fee schedule lists a $200 dwelling base fee plus a per-square-foot charge, and $500 for a manufactured home including a tiny home; confirm the total with the Zoning Office2018. Inside Athens, the city zoning administrator issues building permits for erection or structural alteration; Greenview controls building-permit issuance for improvements in approved subdivisions2122. Private sewage and potable-water services remain with the Sangamon County public health program serving Menard County4.

Does Menard County have zoning?

Menard County zoning covers unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances; the county does not administer ordinances inside Athens, Greenview or Petersburg23. County districts include agricultural, rural-residential, single-family, multiple-family, business, manufacturing and public lands23. Minimum lot size, setbacks and height depend on district and use242526. The district summary lists 30 acres for Agriculture, 3 acres for Rural Residential and 7,500 square feet for Single-Family Residential, subject to detailed exceptions2427. Single-Family Residential setbacks include 5 feet at the side and 10 feet at the rear; the front standard uses the road centerline, required right-of-way and an additional 30 feet25. Ask the Zoning Office to establish the parcel’s district and buildable area before choosing a house site or splitting land, because subdivision and development review may apply182829.

How do septic permits work in Menard County?

Sangamon County public health provides private-sewage-disposal services for Menard County through the counties' public-health arrangement4. The local contact is the Menard County Health Department at One Centre Drive, Petersburg, Illinois 62675 and (217)535-310230. When a septic permit applies, Menard County will not issue its building permit until the Zoning Office receives a copy of the septic permit7. Final inspection of a new installation or repair is required before backfilling, and an initial inspection may be required when circumstances warrant31. Resolve feasibility early because only about 22.4% of Menard County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field32. The countywide soil rating does not decide an individual homesite, so get the required site review before fixing the house location7.

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

In unincorporated Menard County, an RV—including a tiny home classified as an RV—cannot be occupied as a dwelling except in a lawfully established commercial campground or under an approved temporary-use exception8. County-defined campgrounds are for non-permanent RV or tent placement, and RVs there cannot be permanent abodes3334. Temporary dwelling use requires Board of Appeals recommendation and County Board approval; recreational use also requires adequate water, sewage disposal and Health Department approval8. A tiny home built as a dwelling must meet the 400-square-foot minimum habitable floor area35. Manufactured homes must meet title, code-compliance, serial-number and state-law requirements; permanent placement requires at least 7,200 square feet, subject to the applicable district minimum36. Pre-owned manufactured or mobile homes more than 12 years old cannot be brought into unincorporated Menard County37. An owner installing a manufactured home on their own land outside a mobile-home park need not acquire an installer’s license, but waives rights under the Act from not using a licensed installer; county fees, inspections and occupancy approval remain required38.

What are the steps to build a home in Menard County?

  1. Confirm jurisdiction: Menard County administers zoning in unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances, but not in Athens, Greenview or Petersburg3.
  2. Ask the Zoning Office to verify the zoning district, use, lot size, setbacks, building height, floodplain status and any subdivision review3940412629.
  3. Obtain applicable well and septic approvals before the county permit; private-well work requires a permit before construction, deepening, modification or sealing4213.
  4. For a newly addressed parcel, obtain an entrance permit from the road district or Menard County Highway Department with authority over the entrance43.
  5. Submit the building-permit application and required fees before construction144.
  6. Schedule required inspections 48 hours ahead and keep approved plans on site16.
  7. Complete required hookups and approvals, then return the Certificate of Completion & Conformance before occupancy45519.

What should you check before buying land in Menard County?

Confirm zoning jurisdiction and ask the Menard County Zoning Office about the district, floodplain and any subdivision review before buying or splitting a parcel32818. Only about 22.4% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for conventional septic drain fields, so resolve the actual homesite with the health authority early3230. Verify driveway siting and culvert requirements with the road authority; county-highway questions go to the Highway Department and road-district questions to the appropriate commissioner4647. If rental income is part of the plan, Menard County requires short-term rental registration, a guest registry and a local contact within 50 miles who can respond within 60 minutes; occupancy is capped at 10 people and is also subject to bedroom-based limits48. For carrying costs, the countywide effective property-tax rate is about 1.6% and the median annual property-tax bill is about $2,9364950.

Watch-outs

  • Menard County requires applicable well and septic permit copies before issuing its building permit, so resolve water and wastewater early42.
  • Only about 22.4% of Menard County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field; confirm the actual homesite with the health authority3230.
  • A floodplain development permit is required before development begins in a Menard County floodplain; ask the Zoning Office about the proposed site5118.
  • We could not confirm rules for off-grid sanitation or accessory dwellings in Menard County; ask the Health Department about wastewater and the Zoning Office about an additional dwelling3018.

Sources

  1. Menard County IL :: Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  2. Menard County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  3. Menard County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  4. Menard County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  5. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  6. Menard County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  7. Menard County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  8. Menard County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  9. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  10. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  11. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  12. Menard County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  13. Illinois Water Well Construction Code, quoted and re-checked
  14. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  15. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  16. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  17. Menard County Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  18. Menard County Zoning Office (menardcountyil.gov)
  19. Menard County Zoning Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  20. Zoning Fee Schedule Table (Updated 2024), quoted and re-checked
  21. Athens: 8-3-2: Permits and Certificates (Menard County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Village of Greenview: § 150.08 Building and Occupancy Permits; Issuance (Menard County), quoted and re-checked
  23. Menard County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  24. New Menard County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  25. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  26. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  27. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  28. Menard County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  29. Menard County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  30. Menard County Health Department (menardcountyil.gov)
  31. Application for Permit for Private Sewage Disposal Installation, quoted and re-checked
  32. 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
  33. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  34. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  35. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  36. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  37. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  38. New Menard County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  39. Menard County IL :: Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  40. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  41. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  42. Permit Application 2026, quoted and re-checked
  43. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  44. Menard County Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  45. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  46. Permit Application 2026, quoted and re-checked
  47. Menard County Highway Department (menardcountyil.gov)
  48. Zoning Ordinance of Menard County, quoted and re-checked
  49. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  50. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  51. Menard County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, quoted and re-checked

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleMenard CountyMason CountySangamon CountyLogan CountyCass CountyMorgan CountyFulton County
Building permitRequiredLimitedRequiredRequiredRequiredNot requiredLimited
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Dept. of Public HealthCounty Dept. of Public HealthCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Menard County in Illinois

60
County map
Menard County highlighted among the Illinois counties · colored by Index score

How Menard County scores

Seclusion54100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency52100% ev.
Admin Boringness4390% ev.
Durability60100% ev.
Property Autonomy42100% ev.
Carry Cost56100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$209kTypical home
1.6%Property tax
$9,257Land / acre
38.2"Annual rain
3.3% of yrsSevere drought
8.9 / yr (+8.2)Mid-century 100°F days
15 daysMid-century dry spell
1.89" (+9.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.8×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,606Home insurance / yr
2.8% / yrInsurance growth
0.63%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
14,799People within 30 min
1,699,678People within 2 hr
32,028Radius comparison (15 mi)
38People / sq mi
0%Federal land
95.6%Land at 15% slope or less
22.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
44,717 acWorkable land screen
12.6%Wooded land
42.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
52.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Menard 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: Village of Oakford · Petersburg · Village of Tallula

Answers from the rulebook for Menard County

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

Menard County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, movement, or placement of structures in Menard County areas administered under the county zoning ordinance.

    • The county zoning page states the ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances.
    • Continuation of existing uses does not require new permitting under Section 110.01(3).
    • Agricultural land and agricultural buildings are subject to limited permitting for principal-use and building/setback compliance under Section 110.01(4).
    • Fences on farms devoted to agricultural purposes do not require permits under Section 110.01(5).
    “No structure, mobile home, manufactured home, modular home, portable building, pole barn, garage, carport, shed, container shall be constructed, moved or placed upon any lot, tract or parcel of land until a building permit has been obtained as provided for in this Ordinance.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner or builder constructing, maintaining, repairing, altering, remodeling, or extending buildings or structures used solely for agricultural purposes on land used or to be used for agricultural purposes in Menard County areas governed by the county ordinance.

    • The exemption is limited to agricultural land and buildings or structures used for agricultural purposes.
    • The structures must still meet the applicable building setback requirements of the zoning district.
    • No fee is charged to the applicant for a building permit for agricultural purposes in an agricultural district.
    • If the land or structure ceases to be used solely for agricultural purposes, the other provisions of the zoning code apply.
    • This is an agricultural-use exemption, not a general owner-builder exemption for residential or non-agricultural construction.

    building permit fee for agricultural purposes in agricultural district: 0 USD (The agricultural exemption still requires compliance with applicable building setback requirements.)

    “shall not be exercised so as to impose regulations or require permits [...] with respect to the erection [...] of buildings or structures used [...] for agricultural purposes”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — An owner installing a new or used manufactured home on the owner's own property outside a mobile home park in the county-administered jurisdiction.
      “Nothing in this Ordinance shall be construed to require a person who installs a new or used manufactured home on his or her own property outside of a mobile home park as defined in the Mobile Home Park Act [210 ILCS 115] to acquire an installer's license. Such individual also waives any rights under the Act as a result of not using a licensed installer.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Buildings and structures within the jurisdiction of Menard County.

    • The ordinance incorporates multiple codes with insertions, deletions, amendments, and changes.
    • Where codes conflict, the most stringent requirement applies.
    “The County adopts as the building code of the County the following documents with certain insertions, deletions, amendments, and changes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — County building-code requirements for applicable unincorporated construction.
      “The County adopts as the building code of the County the following documents with certain insertions, deletions, amendments, and changes.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    New construction inspections under the Menard County building code.

    • Inspections are generally required unless otherwise noted and discussed in advance.
    • The owner or contractor must request the designated inspection 48 hours in advance.
    • Approved building plans must be on site; absent plans may cause a failed inspection.
    • Underfloor plumbing and rough plumbing inspections are completed by the State Plumbing inspector.

    inspection notice: >= 48 hours

    “The inspections listed in Sections 407.16 through 407.27 are a list of the customary inspections for new construction and are generally required, unless otherwise noted and discussed in advance.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Structures requiring final occupancy approval under the Menard County zoning/building code.

    • Construction must be complete, including heating, lighting, water and sanitary hookups, gutters, downspouts, steps, handrails, porches, and exterior finish.
    • Final approvals of well, septic, and site-development permits are required before release.
    “Final approvals of well, septic, and site development permits are also required before the release of the certificate of occupancy.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Menard County zoning in unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances.

    • The county does not administer ordinances for the City of Athens, City of Greenview, or City of Petersburg.
    • Village-specific ordinances may apply where a village has its own ordinance.
    “These ordinances apply to the county's unincorporated areas and within villages that do not have their own ordinances.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Menard County unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances.
      “These ordinances apply to the county's unincorporated areas and within villages that do not have their own ordinances.”
    • Present — Menard County zoning in unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances
      “These ordinances apply to the county's unincorporated areas and within villages that do not have their own ordinances.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Menard County municipalities, unincorporated areas, and villages without their own ordinances.

    • Menard County administers zoning in unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances.
    • Athens, Greenview, and Petersburg administer or control zoning within their municipal boundaries rather than the County.
    “These ordinances apply to the county's unincorporated areas and within villages that do not have their own ordinances. The County does not administer ordinances for the City of Athens, City of Greenview, or the City of Petersburg. If you live within the municipal boundaries of these cities, please get in touch with their offices.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate zoning across Menard County; county zoning applies in unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances, while specified cities administer their own ordinances.
      “The County does not administer ordinances for the City of Athens, City of Greenview, or the City of Petersburg.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    The official Menard County zoning districts and map for county-administered areas.

    • The county zoning page states county zoning ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances.
    • The county does not administer ordinances for the Cities of Athens, Greenview, or Petersburg.
    • District boundaries are established by the Official Zoning Map and amendments must be adopted by ordinance.
    • R-3 has no single summary lot-size value in the district list and is subject to the specific application.

    published districts: A, RR, R-1, R-3, B-1, B-2, M-1, P-L

    “Menard County is divided into the following zoning districts: Agricultural Districts A Agriculture 30 Acres Residence Districts RR Rural Residential 3 Acres R-1 Single Family 7500 square feet R-3 Multiple Family see specific application Business Districts B-1 Downtown Business 1800 square feet B-2 Highway Business 1 Acre Manufacturing Districts M-1 Manufacturing 1 Acre Public Lands Districts P-L Public Lands none”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Menard County zoning districts governing unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances.
      “Menard County is divided into the following zoning districts:”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Dwelling units in county-regulated areas.

    • The ordinance states the minimum habitable floor area per dwelling unit.

    minimum habitable floor area: >= 400 square feet per dwelling unit

    “The minimum habitable floor area shall be 400 square feet per dwelling unit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Dwelling units in the applicable Menard County zoning districts.
      “The minimum habitable floor area shall be 400 square feet per dwelling unit.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots and uses in Menard County zoning districts governed by the county ordinance.

    • Minimum lot size varies by district and use.
    • The ordinance lists A Agriculture as 30 acres, RR Rural Residential as 3 acres, R-1 Single Family as 7,500 square feet, R-3 Multiple Family as subject to the specific application, B-1 Downtown Business as 1,800 square feet, B-2 Highway Business as 1 acre, M-1 Manufacturing as 1 acre, and P-L Public Lands as none.
    • Detailed district-specific and use-specific exceptions appear elsewhere in the ordinance, including agricultural and nonconforming-lot provisions.

    A Agriculture: 30 Acres · RR Rural Residential: 3 Acres · R-1 Single Family: 7500 square feet · B-1 Downtown Business: 1800 square feet · B-2 Highway Business: 1 Acre · M-1 Manufacturing: 1 Acre · P-L Public Lands: none

    “A Agriculture 30 Acres Residence Districts RR Rural Residential 3 Acres R-1 Single Family 7500 square feet R-3 Multiple Family see specific application Business Districts B-1 Downtown Business 1800 square feet B-2 Highway Business 1 Acre Manufacturing Districts M-1 Manufacturing 1 Acre Public Lands Districts P-L Public Lands none”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential and other uses in Menard County zoning districts.
      “705.02 MINIMUM LOT SIZE. Minimum lot area: a. Residential Use – 7,500 square feet”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential and other uses in Menard County zoning districts, including the Multiple-Family Residential District
      “The zoning ordinance divides the county into zoning districts, lists permitted and special uses authorized in each district and establishes bulk regulations that control setbacks, the location of buildings on lots, yards, building height and intensity of use.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Buildings, structures, outdoor storage areas, and parking areas regulated by Menard County zoning districts

    • Setbacks vary by zoning district and use.
    • In the Multiple-Family Residential District, Section 805.04 specifies front 30 feet, side 10 feet, and rear 30 feet.

    front setback: >= 30 feet (Multiple-Family Residential District example) · side setback: >= 10 feet (Multiple-Family Residential District example) · rear setback: >= 30 feet (Multiple-Family Residential District example)

    “805.04 MINIMUM LOT SETBACK. Minimum setbacks shall be for buildings, structures, outdoor storage areas and parking areas: a. Front – 30’ b. Side – 10’ c. Rear – 30’”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Buildings, structures, outdoor storage, and parking areas in Menard County zoning districts.
      “Minimum setbacks shall be for buildings, structures, outdoor storage areas and parking areas: a. Front shall be one-half the distance of the necessary right of way of the applicable road, measured from the center of the road, and an additional 30’”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Buildings and structures regulated by Menard County zoning districts

    • Height limits vary by district.
    • The Multiple-Family Residential District specifies a maximum structure height of 30 feet.

    maximum structure height: <= 30 feet (Multiple-Family Residential District)

    “805.05 MAXIMUM STRUCTURE HEIGHT. Building or structure height – 30’”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds in county-regulated areas.

    • The zoning ordinance defines recreational vehicle parks/campgrounds as for non-permanent placement.
    • Vehicles in such parks may not be inhabited as a permanent place of abode.
    “Recreational Vehicle Parks may not be operated in whole or in part for the lease or rent of such vehicles by the park owner(s) or operator(s), nor can any such vehicle be inhabited as a permanent place of abode as defined in Section 1516.02 of this ordinance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Permanent habitation of recreational vehicles in recreational-vehicle parks or campgrounds.
      “Recreational Vehicle Parks may not be operated in whole or in part for the lease or rent of such vehicles by the park owner(s) or operator(s), nor can any such vehicle be inhabited as a permanent place of abode as defined in Section 1516.02 of this ordinance.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Recreational-vehicle parks and campgrounds in unincorporated Menard County.

    • The ordinance defines an RV park or campground as developed for non-permanent placement of recreational vehicles and/or tents.
    • Permanent habitation is prohibited under the cited definition.
    “RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK OR CAMPGROUND. A contiguous parcel of land which has been developed for the non-permanent placement of recreational vehicles and/or tents.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A tiny home that is classified as a recreational vehicle under the Menard County Zoning Ordinance and is proposed for occupancy in unincorporated Menard County.

    • Recreational vehicles may not be occupied for dwelling purposes except in lawfully established commercial campgrounds.
    • Temporary dwelling use may be permitted only after an application is recommended by the Board of Appeals and approved by the County Board.
    • For the construction exception, the applicant must be building a dwelling that will not be occupied within twelve months.
    • For the recreation exception, use must be strictly recreational and not permanent habitation; the location must not hinder, degrade, or affect adjoining properties; adequate water supply and sewage disposal must be provided; and Menard County Health Department approval is required.
    • The ordinance separately requires recreational trailers to be licensed and titled as an RV or park model, have inflated wheels and be self-propelled or towable by light truck, and have no attached deck, porch, or shed.
    • Occupied recreational trailers subject to permit requirements must show evidence of compliance with federal HUD regulations or applicable State law.
    • The county zoning ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and villages without their own ordinances; Athens, Greenview, and Petersburg administer their own ordinances.

    temporary construction occupancy period: <= 12 months (The dwelling must not be occupied within the twelve-month period for the construction exception.) · construction permit extension: <= 6 months (The Zoning Administrator may extend the one-year permit if adequate progress is shown.) · recreational vehicle size in floodplain: < 400 square feet (The ordinance states this requirement in the floodplain provisions.)

    “Recreational vehicles, as defined herein, shall not be occupied for dwelling purposes except in lawfully established commercial campgrounds.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured and mobile homes in unincorporated Menard County.

    • A manufactured home on an individual lot must conform to the Manufactured Housing Code.
    • Permanent habitation requires at least 7,200 square feet unless later zoning regulations prescribe a different minimum lot size.
    • Pre-owned manufactured or mobile homes older than twelve years may not be brought into unincorporated Menard County.

    minimum permanent habitation area: >= 7200 square feet (Subject to later zoning minimum lot size if zoning regulations are subsequently adopted.) · maximum age for pre-owned home brought into county: <= 12 years

    “No pre-owned manufactured or mobile home older than twelve (12) years from the current date shall be brought into unincorporated Menard County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Manufactured and pre-owned mobile homes in unincorporated Menard County.
      “No manufactured home or pre-owned mobile home shall be placed for permanent habitation on an area containing less than 7,200 square feet, provided that if zoning regulations are subsequently adopted, such area or lot size shall conform to the related minimum lot size prescribed for the zoning district in which the manufactured home is located.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Private sewage disposal services and permitting for properties in Menard County.

    • Menard County and its Board of Health maintain a certified local health department through an agreement with Sangamon County and the Sangamon County Board of Health.
    • Sangamon County Department of Public Health provides the private sewage disposal program in Menard County.
    • Menard County zoning materials also incorporate the Illinois Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act and Illinois Private Sewage Disposal Code, as well as applicable county or local codes.
    “The Sangamon County Department of Public Health will provide public health services for the following programs in Menard County: 1) Infectious Disease Control 2) Food Protection 3) Private Sewage Disposal 4) Potable Water Supply”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Private sewage disposal and potable water services provided for Menard County residents through the Menard County Board of Health/Sangamon County public-health arrangement.
      “The Sangamon County Department of Public Health will provide public health services for the following programs in Menard County:”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Private sewage disposal installations in Menard County administered through Sangamon County Public Health.

    • The county zoning permit application states that when a well and septic permit is required, no county zoning permit will be issued until copies are provided.
    • The applicable Illinois Private Sewage Disposal Code and local-health requirements also apply.
    “Please contact the Sangamon County Health Department to obtain a septic permit at 2833 South Grand Avenue East, Springfield, Illinois 62703, (217) 535-3145”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Private sewage disposal installations and repairs in Menard County

    • The approved permit is issued upon final inspection.
    • An initial inspection may also be required if circumstances warrant.
    “Final inspection of the installation or repair of existing system is required prior to back filling.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Water and sanitary hookups required for final inspection and occupancy approval

    • The source requires water and sanitary hookups to be complete before the final inspection and occupancy permit; it does not establish that public water or public sewer must be used.
    “Before calling the zoning office for a final inspection and occupancy permit, construction must be complete, including heating, lighting, water and sanitary hookups, gutters, down spouts, steps, handrails, porches, and all exterior finish.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Development-permit exemptions for agricultural land use and agricultural structures under the Menard County Development Code.

    • The exemption is from the Development Permit requirement under that code.
    • Conservation measures must be included in a farm conservation plan approved by the Soil and Water Conservation District where applicable.
    • Other zoning, building, floodplain, septic, and state requirements may still apply.
    “A Development Permit shall not be required for the following:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural structures, agricultural buildings, and agricultural land-use development covered by the county zoning and development ordinances.
      “A Development Permit shall not be required for the following: [...] The agricultural use of land, including the implementation of conservation measures included in a farm conservation plan approved by the Soil and Water Conservation District, and including the construction of agricultural structures.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and development activities in unincorporated Menard County.

    • The county zoning page identifies administration of the Menard County Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances.
    • The Development Code applies to new development or redevelopment in unincorporated areas.
    • Some development permits and subdivision activities have exemptions or special thresholds.
    “The Zoning Deputy is appointed and serves directly under the Board of Commissioners and administers the Menard County Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision activity in Menard County areas administered by the County.
      “The Zoning Deputy is appointed and serves directly under the Board of Commissioners and administers the Menard County Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and property splits administered under the Menard County Subdivision Ordinance
      “The zoning ordinance regulates the “use” of land. The subdivision ordinance regulates the “division” of land.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway siting, culvert installation, and access to public roads for Menard County properties.

    • Menard County Road District regulations may apply.
    • The permit application identifies culvert installation and driveway siting as road-district matters outside the zoning office's jurisdiction.
    • The office may require proof that consultation occurred before issuing a permit.
    “Menard County Road District regulations (e.g., culvert installation/driveway siting);”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Access to newly addressed parcels and county-road entrances.
      “An entrance permit will be required to a newly assigned addressed parcel, by the Road District or Menard County Highway Department having authority with the entrance location to be set by the addressing assigned.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in Menard County floodplain areas.

    • The Floodplain Administrator issues the development permit.
    • The application must include scaled site plans, elevations, and project cost information.
    • A permit becomes invalid if construction does not commence within 180 days or is suspended or abandoned for 180 days.

    construction commencement deadline: <= 180 days (Permit becomes invalid if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after commencement.)

    “No person, firm, corporation, or governmental body not exempted by law shall commence any development in the floodplain without first obtaining a development permit from the Floodplain Administrator.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals regulated by Section 1532 of the Menard County zoning ordinance.

    • Owner registration is required.
    • The owner or manager must maintain a guest registry.
    • Maximum occupancy is two people per bedroom, subject to the stated minor-child exception, and never more than 10 persons.
    • A local contact must be available within 50 miles and able to respond within 60 minutes.
    • Inspection may occur on reasonable notice.

    maximum occupancy: <= 10 persons (Two people per bedroom unless additional occupants are renters' minor children.) · local contact distance: <= 50 miles · local contact response time: <= 60 minutes

    “No dwelling unit may be used for a short-term rental unless the owner has registered with the County of Menard rental registry and identified the unit as a short-term rental.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Menard County zoning permit fees for county-administered zoning districts.

    • The fee schedule is identified as updated 2024.
    • Fees vary by district, structure, square footage, construction cost, and permit type.
    • The zoning ordinance states all permit fees are due before construction and re-inspection fees before each inspection.
    • Agricultural-purpose buildings in an agricultural district have no fee under the agricultural exemption.
    • The published schedule contains additional fees for mobile/manufactured homes, pools, decks, business, manufacturing, public lands, solar, and battery-energy-storage systems.

    residential dwelling base fee: 200 USD (plus .25¢ per square foot including attached garage square footage) · mobile or manufactured home, including tiny homes: 500 USD · swimming pool: 75 USD (above ground or in ground) · E.C.H.O. housing: 250 USD

    “Dwellings Base Cost: $200 Plus: .25¢ per Square Foot including attached garage square footage”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Menard County zoning, building, occupancy, subdivision, and floodplain permit fees.
      “Dwellings Base Cost: $200 Plus: .25¢ per Square Foot including attached garage square footage Mobile Homes & Manufactured Homes - including "Tiny Homes" $500”
    • Published (with conditions) — Menard County zoning and building-permit fee information
      “Miscellaneous Plat Act Affidavit Fee Schedule 2024 Menard County Registered Septic Contractors”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Menard County zoning/building permit application process.

    • Applicants must consult the zoning office regarding zoning regulations and applicable outside regulations.
    • If a well and septic permit is required, copies must be provided before the county permit is issued.
    • If a permit is issued, a Certificate of Completion & Conformance is provided and the sheet must be returned before occupancy.
    “If a permit is issued, you will be provided a Certificate of Completion & Conformance. Please remember that this sheet MUST be returned to the Zoning Officer prior to occupancy of a structure.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Menard County zoning-permit process for construction and related development in the County's jurisdiction.
      “If a well and septic permit is required, no permit will be issued until such time that this office has been provided a copy of the well and septic permit.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Menard County zoning and building-permit application process
      “Applications/Forms Address Application Building Permit Application Solar Building Permit Application Certificate of Completion & Conformance Map Amendment Permit Application Subdivision Application Text Amendment Application Special Use Permit Application Variance Application”

Illinois rules that apply here

  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Off-grid disposal of human wastes through privies, portable toilets, recirculation toilets, incinerator toilets, and compost toilets statewide in Illinois.

    • Other domestic wastes must be disposed of in a conventional private sewage disposal system.
    • Compost toilets may also be used for other organic domestic wastes.
    • Privies have construction, capacity, venting, maintenance, and abandonment requirements.
    • A privy pit must have a minimum capacity of 50 cubic feet per seat.
    • A privy must be pumped when filled to within 18 inches of the bottom of the riser.
    • Vault privies are required where groundwater or limestone formations are within 4 feet of the bottom of the pit.
    • Recirculating toilets must meet NSF International/ANSI Standard 41 and residuals must go to an approved public or private sewage disposal system.
    • Incinerator and compost toilets have separate maintenance and disposal requirements; compost toilets must meet NSF International/ANSI Standard 41.

    privy pit minimum capacity: >= 50 cubic feet per seat · privy pumping trigger: <= 18 inches from bottom of riser (Pump when filled to within this distance.) · vault-privy groundwater or limestone separation: < 4 feet from bottom of pit (Watertight, non-metal vaults are required where the condition applies.)

    “Privies, portable toilets, recirculation toilets, incinerator toilets and compost toilets are approved for private sewage disposal of human wastes.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction of a new water well, modification of an existing water well, or sealing of an abandoned water well in Illinois.

    • A permit must be obtained from the Illinois Department of Public Health or an approved local health department before work begins.
    • The application must use Department or approved local health department forms and include a plan and drawing of the proposed construction.
    • The plan must include the lot size, slope, property lines, distances to septic tanks, abandoned wells, property lines, seepage fields, sewers, and other contamination sources; driller license number and name; estimated daily pumping capacity if greater than 100,000 gallons per day; well location; owner name and address; well type; estimated depth; well-use type; and proposed aquifer.
    • The permit is void if construction has not commenced within one year after issuance.
    • The permit fee for constructing, deepening, modifying, or sealing a water well may not exceed $100.
    • The Department will deny a permit request when available information indicates groundwater contamination exceeds Class I groundwater standards, subject to the treatment approval provision in subsection (f)(2).
    • The permittee must notify the Department, approved local health department, or approved unit of local government by telephone or in writing at least two days before work begins.

    maximum water well permit fee: <= 100 USD · permit commencement deadline: 1 year after issuance (Permit is void if construction has not commenced within that period.) · pre-work notification: >= 2 days (Notification may be by telephone or in writing.)

    “A permit to construct a new water well, modify an existing water well or seal an abandoned water well shall be obtained from the Department or approved local health department prior to start of work.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Private water wells in Menard County under Illinois statewide requirements.
      “A permit to construct, deepen, modify or seal a water well shall be obtained from the Department or approved local health department prior to start of work.”
  • Campground & park staysAllowed (with conditions)

    Overnight camping in Illinois campgrounds subject to the Campground Licensing and Recreational Area Act.

    • IDPH annually inspects and licenses campgrounds in Illinois.
    • The state campground definition includes camping and temporary parking of recreational vehicles.
    • Campgrounds within home rule units of government are exempt from the state campground licensing requirement.
    • Recreational areas without overnight camping, such as highway rest stops and picnicking areas, are subject to the rules but are not licensed or routinely inspected.

    minimum persons for statutory campground threshold: >= 10 persons · minimum camping duration for statutory campground threshold: >= 6 camping days per calendar year

    ““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).”

Still unanswered

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

  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage limits under Menard County zoning
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling units in Menard 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 Menard County, Illinois

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

Menard County scores 60/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals.

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

Menard County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Menard County Health Department. 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 Menard County, Illinois?

Land in Menard County runs about $9,257 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Menard County?

Menard County gets about 38.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.3% of years.

How remote is Menard County?

A representative private-land location has about 14,799 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,699,678 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 Menard compares in Illinois

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