Bolthole Index

Monroe County, Illinois

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

53Index Score / 100
#66 of 102 in Illinois

Unincorporated Monroe County, Illinois requires a building permit from Monroe County Zoning & Building for covered construction, and the county enforces its zoning and adopted building codes there.123 A city or village with its own zoning code can apply different zoning, but private septic permits come from the Monroe County Health Department.45

At a glance

Building permit
Required for covered construction and structural alterations1
Zoning
County zoning applies in unincorporated areas; municipal rules vary24
Septic
County permit required before installation or repair67
RV living
Parked RV living is barred outside a park; qualifying temporary use needs approval89
Tiny home
Classification must be confirmed; residences generally need 900 square feet10
Accessory dwelling
Residential use of an accessory building is prohibited11
Owner-builder
Homeowner electrical work permit available after a test; limited plumbing allowance1213
Private well
State or approved local permit required before work14

Who to call

Building permits

Monroe County Zoning & Building

Building and electrical permits, zoning, flood zoning, appeals and code enforcement

618-939-8681 ext. 260

100 S. Main St., Waterloo, IL 62298

Online permits →

Septic permits

Monroe County Health Department — Environmental Health

Environmental health questions involving private sewage disposal and wells

618-939-3871 ext. 212

beckert@monroecountyhealth.org

1315 Jamie Lane, Waterloo, IL. 62298

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Monroe 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 Monroe County, Illinois?

Yes. Unincorporated Monroe County requires a permit before a nonagricultural building or structure is erected, added to or structurally altered; an agricultural building also needs a permit once it costs more than $500 or exceeds 100 square feet, and that agricultural permit carries no charge if the building meets the setback line.15 A shed or carport of 100 square feet or larger needs a permit as well.16 Monroe County has adopted building codes, including the 2006 International Building Code and International Residential Code; ask Zoning & Building to confirm the electrical and plumbing editions for your project.1718

New-home construction requires 10 inspections, and the building inspector determines the inspection count for other permitted work.19 Before a regulated structure, use or lot is occupied or operated, Monroe County requires a final certificate of zoning compliance after an inspection confirms that the approved work was completed according to plan.20

Who issues building permits in Monroe County, Illinois?

Monroe County Zoning & Building is the permit office for unincorporated land; the office accepts building applications through Cloudpermit or by email or drop-off.18 Reach the office at 618-939-8681 ext. 260 or visit 100 S. Main St., Waterloo, IL 62298.18

Applicants may apply for and track permits and request inspections through Cloudpermit, or submit downloaded applications by email or drop-off at the Zoning Office.21 The published building-permit fee is $5 per $1,000 of structure value, plus inspection fees; each inspection costs $70.22 A homeowner may obtain an electrical work permit for personally performed work in an owner-occupied single-family home or duplex after passing the homeowner test, which may be taken only twice per calendar year; county electrical-code compliance and inspections still apply.12

Does Monroe County, Illinois have zoning?

Yes. County zoning applies throughout unincorporated Monroe County and inside municipalities that have not adopted their own zoning code.23 A municipality with its own zoning code may apply different local zoning rules, so verify the parcel's jurisdiction first, while septic permits stay with the Monroe County Health Department.2425 The county publishes a zoning map and district-specific regulations.26

Each lot must independently satisfy its district’s area, dimensions and setbacks; ask Zoning & Building for the applicable Schedule 2A requirements before buying.2728 Setbacks and height limits vary by district and use; in certain built-up residential or business areas, the front setback is based on neighboring development but is bounded by a 15-foot minimum and a 50-foot maximum requirement.29 The 20-foot height cap identified in the code applies to structures in manufactured-home parks, not every building countywide.30 Agricultural buildings must still meet district setbacks.31

How do septic permits work in Monroe County?

The Monroe County Health Department regulates private sewage systems for homes and facilities not served by public sewer.6 A permit is required before installing or repairing a private sewage system, and the proposal is reviewed under state requirements and the county sewage ordinance.7 Off-grid sanitation is not a way around review: sewage must go to an allowed, properly designed system.32 Call Environmental Health at 618-939-3871 ext. 212 or email beckert@monroecountyhealth.org before committing to a system design.33 A subdivision that will rely on private sewage systems also needs a Subdivision Application reviewed by the department.34

Only 11.6% of Monroe County soils are rated “not limited” for a conventional septic drain field; that countywide rating makes a site evaluation important, but does not mean septic is impossible.35 The department inspects complaints about nuisance conditions or possible failures; a property-transfer or loan inspection costs $200 and requires an application before scheduling.36

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

In unincorporated Monroe County, a parked RV outside a travel-trailer park cannot contain living quarters or a business.8 The Zoning Administrator may approve temporary occupancy for up to one year for an emergency, personal hardship, construction, demolition or a related condition, subject to county conditions.9 Other temporary use needs written permission unless expressly allowed by the zoning code.37

We could not confirm a separate tiny-home classification in Monroe County; ask Zoning & Building how the proposed home would be classified, because residences generally require at least 900 square feet.38 Manufactured homes on individual lots may be permitted in R-MH with district lot sizes and setbacks, a permanent perimeter foundation and anchors, and no more than one home per lot; manufactured homes in the Agricultural District are special uses.39 Mobile homes also need at least 900 square feet, a kitchen and sanitary facilities, a full-perimeter foundation below frost depth, removed wheels and towing devices, a roof pitch of at least 3/12 and a minimum 6-inch eave overhang.40 An accessory building cannot be used as a residence; ask Zoning & Building about an attached dwelling within a principal building.11

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

  1. Confirm the parcel's jurisdiction and zoning district, because a municipality with its own code may apply different rules.441
  2. Ask Zoning & Building to confirm lot area, setbacks, height, access and flood constraints for the proposed site.42293043
  3. Have Environmental Health review the private sewage proposal before work begins where public sewer is unavailable.67
  4. Submit the building application through Cloudpermit or by email or drop-off.21
  5. Obtain entrance approval from the roadway's legal maintenance authority; the County Engineer approves county Highway Entrance Permits.44
  6. Request the required inspections and obtain the final certificate of zoning compliance before occupancy.1920

What should you check before buying land in Monroe County?

Start with jurisdiction, zoning district, legal access, septic feasibility, water and flood exposure. County zoning governs unincorporated land, while municipalities with their own codes may use different rules.4 A driveway entrance needs approval from the roadway's maintenance authority, and work in a state-highway right-of-way requires an IDOT permit before work starts.4445

For a private well, Illinois requires a permit from the state or an approved local health department before construction, modification or sealing begins.14 Flood-hazard construction receives county flood-safety review and must meet protective design requirements.43 The nearest city of 100,000 or more people is about 24 miles in a straight line from the county center.46 The effective property-tax rate is about 1.7%, and the median annual property-tax bill is $4,523.4748

Watch-outs

  • Illinois allows a qualifying owner-occupant to perform plumbing on a single-family residence, but that limited allowance does not waive county permits, code compliance or inspections.1349
  • A parked RV cannot be used as living quarters outside a travel-trailer park; qualifying temporary occupancy requires county approval.89
  • Residential use of a detached accessory building is prohibited, and the county has not confirmed how an attached accessory dwelling would be classified.11
  • Only 11.6% of Monroe County soils are rated “not limited” for a conventional septic drain field; individual lots still need evaluation, and septic is not necessarily impossible.35

Sources

  1. Monroe County Code of Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  2. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  3. FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  4. Zoning & Building, quoted and re-checked
  5. Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  6. Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  7. Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  8. Chapter 40 — Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  9. Chapter 40 — Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  10. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  11. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  12. Chapter 6: Building Regulations — Monroe County, IL, quoted and re-checked
  13. HB5913 Enrolled — Illinois Plumbing License Law amendment (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. 77 Ill. Admin. Code 920.130, Water Well Permit Requirements (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  16. Zoning & Building, quoted and re-checked
  17. Building Regulations Chapter 6, quoted and re-checked
  18. Monroe County Zoning & Building (monroecountyil.gov)
  19. Application for Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  20. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  21. Permits & Forms, quoted and re-checked
  22. Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  23. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  24. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  25. Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  26. Zoning & Building, quoted and re-checked
  27. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  28. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  29. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  30. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  31. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  32. Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  33. Monroe County Health Department — Environmental Health (monroecountyhealth.org)
  34. Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  35. 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
  36. Private Sewage Disposal Systems, quoted and re-checked
  37. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  38. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  39. monroecountyil.gov, quoted and re-checked
  40. monroecountyil.gov, quoted and re-checked
  41. Zoning & Building, quoted and re-checked
  42. Chapter 40 Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  43. Monroe County Code of Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  44. Monroe County Code of Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  45. Highway Permits (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  46. Straight-line distance from the county center to the nearest city of 100,000+ people: Bolthole Index county data
  47. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  48. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  49. 225 ILCS 320/18 — Local regulation; Department standards (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 10, 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, Monroe County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleMonroe CountySt. Clair CountyRandolph CountyMadison CountyWashington CountyClinton CountyPerry County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Planning & Development Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Monroe County in Illinois

53
County map
Monroe County highlighted among the Illinois counties · colored by Index score

How Monroe County scores

Seclusion28100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency71100% ev.
Admin Boringness4390% ev.
Durability59100% ev.
Property Autonomy42100% ev.
Carry Cost55100% 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 →

$332kTypical home
1.7%Property tax
$8,117Land / acre
43"Annual rain
3.1% of yrsSevere drought
15.8 / yr (+13.6)Mid-century 100°F days
16.5 daysMid-century dry spell
2.03" (+9.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.88×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,763Home insurance / yr
4.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.23%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
3,192,982People within 2 hr
150,333Radius comparison (15 mi)
90.7People / sq mi
0.9%Federal land
78.9%Land at 15% slope or less
11.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
27,799 acWorkable land screen
29.7%Wooded land
54.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
56.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Monroe 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 Fults · Village of Maeystown · Village of Valmeyer

Answers from the rulebook for Monroe County

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

Monroe County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Nonagricultural buildings and structures, and agricultural buildings or structures exceeding the stated thresholds, in areas governed by the county zoning code.

    • No nonagricultural building or structure may be erected, added to, or structurally altered until the Administrator issues a permit.
    • A permit is also required for an agricultural building or structure exceeding $500 in cost or 100 square feet in size.
    • The agricultural permit is issued without a charge if the proposed building complies with the building setback line.
    • A Board of Appeals written order is an exception to the prohibition on issuing a permit for work violating the zoning code.

    agricultural building cost threshold: > 500 USD (Permit required above this cost threshold) · agricultural building size threshold: > 100 square feet (Permit required above this size threshold)

    “No nonagricultural building or structure shall be erected, added to, or structurally altered until a permit has been issued by the Administrator.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Nonagricultural construction, additions, and structural alterations governed by the county zoning code.
      “No nonagricultural building or structure shall be erected, added to, or structurally altered until a permit has been issued by the Administrator.”
    • Required — Building work under Monroe County zoning and building administration.
      “If the shed or carport is 100 square feet or larger it will require a permit and you will need to place it so that the structure is in compliance with county setbacks.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A homeowner performing electrical construction work in Monroe County, Illinois.

    • The homeowner must personally perform the electrical work.
    • The work must be installed in the home occupied by the owner.
    • The home must be a single-family residence or owner-occupied duplex.
    • The homeowner must pass the homeowner test, which may be taken only twice within a calendar year.
    • The rule authorizes a work permit to the homeowner; it does not eliminate the permit requirement.
    • The electrical installation remains subject to county inspection and the county electrical code.

    homeowner test frequency: <= 2 tests per calendar year

    “The County shall issue work permits to licensed electrical contractors or a homeowner, provided that the homeowner personally performs the electrical work and provided that the electrical work is to be installed in the home occupied by the owner and that the home is a single-family residence or owner-occupied duplex. The homeowner must also pass the homeowner test, which can only be taken twice within a calendar year.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    County-enforced building codes in unincorporated Monroe County.

    • The county FAQ identifies the 2006 International Building Code, 2005 National Electrical Code, and current Illinois State Plumbing Code.

    International Building Code: 2006 · National Electrical Code: 2005 · Illinois State Plumbing Code: most current

    “What building codes does Monroe County enforce? 2006 International Building Code 2005 National Electrical Code Illinois State Plumbing Code (most current)”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building-code enforcement described by Monroe County for its zoning and building jurisdiction.
      “2006 International Building Code 2005 National Electrical Code Illinois State Plumbing Code (most current)”
    • Adopted — County building, electrical, mechanical, fire, property-maintenance, residential, plumbing, and county-guideline codes.
      “The 2006 Edition of the International Building Code is hereby adopted.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    New-home construction and other permitted construction subject to county inspections.

    • New home construction requires 10 inspections.
    • The number of inspections is determined by the building inspector.
    • The listed inspections cover structural, plumbing, and electrical stages.

    new-home inspections: 10 inspections · inspection fee: 70 USD per inspection

    “Inspections - $70.00 each (# of inspections determined by the building inspector). 2. New home construction has a required 10 inspections.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Inspections associated with Monroe County building permits and zoning compliance.
      “You can even request building inspections with results sent to your email.”
    • Required — New-home construction and other permitted building work subject to county inspection requirements.
      “New home construction has a required 10 inspections.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Final certificate of zoning compliance for structures, uses, and lots governed by the county zoning code.

    • A final certificate must be issued before use, occupancy, or operation.
    • The administrator must determine by inspection that work authorized by the initial certificate was completed according to approved plans.
    “No lot or part thereof recorded or developed after the effective date of this Code, and no structure, part, use, or part thereof, that has been erected, enlarged, altered, relocated, or reconstructed after the effective date of this Code shall be used, occupied, or put into operation until a final certificate of zoning compliance has been issued.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning in the unincorporated portion of Monroe County.

    • The zoning articles also apply within municipalities that have not adopted their own zoning code.
    • The revised code states it takes effect ten days after adoption.
    “For the purpose of this Code, the entire County of Monroe outside the limits of cities, villages and incorporated towns which have in effect municipal zoning ordinances is hereby divided into the following zoning districts:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning in unincorporated Monroe County and, under the code, municipalities that have not adopted their own zoning code.
      “This entire Code shall be applicable throughout the unincorporated portion of the County. Moreover, the articles of this Code pertaining to zoning shall be applicable within the corporate limits of municipalities which have not adopted their own Zoning Code.”
    • Present — County zoning in the unincorporated portion of Monroe County.
      “This entire Code shall be applicable throughout the unincorporated portion of the County. Moreover, the articles of this Code pertaining to zoning shall be applicable within the corporate limits of municipalities which have not adopted their own Zoning Code.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate countywide conclusion for incorporated municipalities and unincorporated areas.

    • Monroe County administers zoning in unincorporated areas.
    • Municipalities with their own zoning codes administer their own local zoning; county zoning applies inside municipalities only when they have not adopted their own code.
    “Moreover, the articles of this Code pertaining to zoning shall be applicable within the corporate limits of municipalities which have not adopted their own Zoning Code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Monroe County, including county zoning in unincorporated areas and municipal zoning where a municipality has adopted its own code.
      “This entire Code shall be applicable throughout the unincorporated portion of the County. Moreover, the articles of this Code pertaining to zoning shall be applicable within the corporate limits of municipalities which have not adopted their own Zoning Code.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Official Monroe County zoning districts and map for unincorporated areas.

    • The official zoning map is incorporated into Chapter 40 by reference and kept on file in the Administrator's office.
    • The county zoning webpage links to an online Zoning Map.
    “The boundaries of the listed zoning districts are hereby established as shown on the official zoning map of the County. This official zoning map, including all notations and other information hereto, is hereby made a part of this Code by reference.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning districts and zoning-map information.
      “The boundaries of the listed zoning districts are hereby established as shown on the official zoning map of the County. This official zoning map, including all notations and other information hereto, is hereby made a part of this Code by reference.”
    • Published — County zoning districts and zoning-map administration in unincorporated Monroe County.
      “The boundaries of the listed zoning districts are hereby established as shown on the official zoning map of the County. This official zoning map, including all notations and other information hereto, is hereby made a part of this Code by reference.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Residences and certain residential districts governed by the county zoning code.

    • The code also states that district-specific area and bulk regulations are in Schedule 2A.
    • The reviewed code contains a 900-square-foot minimum living-area requirement for residential districts and residences.

    minimum living area: >= 900 square feet

    “All residences must have a minimum of nine hundred (900) square feet of living area and must be built to the adopted Monroe County Building Code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Residences in specified county zoning districts and mobile homes.
      “Living area shall be a minimum of nine hundred (900) square feet.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots in county zoning districts.

    • Every lot must meet the minimum area and minimum dimensions of its zoning district independently.
    • The exact district-by-district values are in official Schedule 2A Area and Bulk Regulations; the opened PDF table was not text-extractable.
    “Except as specifically provided otherwise elsewhere in this Code, every lot must meet the minimum area, minimum dimensions, and minimum setback requirements of the district in which it is located independently; that is, without counting any portion of an abutting lot.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Lots subject to county zoning district requirements.
      “Except as specifically provided otherwise elsewhere in this Code, every lot must meet the minimum area, minimum dimensions, and minimum setback requirements of the district in which it is located independently; that is, without counting any portion of an abutting lot.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Setbacks for county zoning districts.

    • District-specific setback values are referenced in Schedule 2A.
    • In built-up Residential or Business areas meeting the code's frontage and setback conditions, the minimum front setback is the average of existing front setbacks, but not less than 15 feet and not more than 50 feet.

    minimum front setback in qualifying built-up area: >= 15 feet (No front setback less than 15 feet is permitted) · maximum required front setback in qualifying built-up area: <= 50 feet (No front setback greater than 50 feet may be required)

    “the minimum required front setbacks on that block shall be the average of the existing front setbacks; provided, however, that in any built-up area, no front setback less than fifteen (15) feet shall be permitted, nor shall any front setback greater than fifty (50) feet be required.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — County zoning setbacks in unincorporated areas.
      “provided, however, that in any built-up area, no front setback less than fifteen (15) feet shall be permitted, nor shall any front setback greater than fifty (50) feet be required.”
    • Specified — Setbacks for manufactured-home districts and parks and other regulated uses under Chapter 40.
      “Manufactured homes (as well as any other structures) within any park shall be placed so that no part of any manufactured home or structure is closer than: (1) ten (10) feet to any park street; (2) twenty-five (25) feet to any lot line of the park; or (3) twenty (20) feet to any part of any other manufactured home.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Building height standards expressly located in Monroe County Chapter 40, including manufactured-home parks.

    • The cited 20-foot maximum applies to structures in manufactured-home parks, not necessarily all county structures.
    • Other height standards may vary by district or use.

    manufactured-home park structure maximum height: <= 20 feet

    “No structure in any manufactured home park shall be more than twenty (20) feet in height.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Building-height limits in county zoning districts and manufactured-home parks.
      “No structure in any manufactured home park shall be more than twenty (20) feet in height.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Travel trailer parks and parking or occupancy of travel trailers and recreational vehicles outside a park in unincorporated Monroe County.

    • Outside a park, no more than one unoccupied travel trailer, recreational vehicle, and/or utility trailer may be parked in the side or rear yard or a completely enclosed garage.
    • The vehicle may not exceed ten feet in width or thirty-five feet in length.
    • No living quarters or businesses may be maintained in the parked trailer or vehicle.
    • Parking must comply with the accessory-building yard requirements of the applicable zoning district.
    • Travel trailer parks require a special use permit.
    • A travel-trailer-park special use permit must comply with applicable Illinois regulations, including the Illinois Recreational Area Licensing Act.
    • The special-use site plan must include water supply, service buildings, sewage disposal, and facilities for travel trailers.

    maximum number of unoccupied trailers or recreational vehicles parked outside a park: <= 1 vehicle (Applies to parking outside a park only.) · maximum width: <= 10 feet (Applies to parking outside a park.) · maximum length: <= 35 feet (Applies to parking outside a park.)

    “no living quarters or businesses shall be maintained in any such trailer or vehicle [...] Travel trailer parks shall be permitted only by special use permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Residential occupancy of recreational vehicles, trailers, or mobile/manufactured homes as temporary structures in unincorporated Monroe County.
      “permit the use of such temporary structure for a period not to exceed one (1) year [...] Such occupancy shall be contingent on an emergency”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary structures, temporary enterprises, and camping-related uses under county zoning.

    • Temporary structures or land may not be used for a temporary purpose without written permission unless the code specifically provides otherwise.
    • Private recreation areas or camps are listed as special uses in the Agricultural District.
    “Except as specifically provided otherwise in this Code, no temporary structure shall be used or occupied for any purpose, and no land shall be used for any temporary enterprise except by written permission of the Administrator.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured or mobile homes placed in unincorporated Monroe County.

    • Mobile homes must have at least 900 square feet of floor area, a complete kitchen and sanitary facilities.
    • They must be permanently attached to a full-perimeter permanent foundation extending below frost depth.
    • Wheels and towing devices must be removed.
    • They must have a minimum 3/12 pitch roof, residential-style siding and roofing, and a six-inch minimum eave overhang.
    • Homes moved into Monroe County must meet the HUD Federal Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standard.

    minimum floor area: >= 900 square feet · minimum roof pitch: >= 3/12 · minimum eave overhang: >= 6 inches

    “Mobile homes must have a minimum of nine hundred (900) square feet of floor area and must contain a complete kitchen and sanitary facilities.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Manufactured homes on individual lots and in manufactured-home parks.
      “Manufactured homes on individual lots (as opposed to mobile home parks) may be permitted in R-MH Manufactured Home District provided they comply with all the following supplemental regulations: (A) Same Lot Size/Setbacks. No manufactured home shall be placed on any individual lot unless the district's minimum lot size and setback requirements are strictly observed. (B) One Per Lot. Not more than one (1) manufactured home shall be placed on any individual lot.”
  • Accessory dwellingsProhibited

    Residential use of an accessory building.

    • This source addresses accessory buildings; it does not resolve whether an attached accessory dwelling within a principal building is treated differently.
    “No accessory building shall be used for residential purposes.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Private sewage disposal systems for facilities and residences not served by public sewer.

    • The Monroe County Health Department administers the county private sewage disposal program.
    • Applications must meet both the current Illinois Department of Public Health Private Sewage Licensing Act and Code and the Monroe County Private Sewage Ordinance.
    “All private sewage applications are reviewed and consultations are conducted in order to verify the proposed system meets the current Illinois Department of Public Health Private Sewage Licensing Act & Code and the Monroe County Private Sewage Ordinance”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Private sewage disposal systems in Monroe County.
      “The Private Sewage Disposal Program regulates methods of sewage disposal from facilities and residences that are not served by public sewer systems.”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Private sewage disposal systems in Monroe County.
      “All private sewage applications are reviewed and consultations are conducted in order to verify the proposed system meets the current Illinois Department of Public Health Private Sewage Licensing Act & Code and the Monroe County Private Sewage Ordinance”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation or repair of a private sewage disposal system.

    • The system must be reviewed against the Illinois Department of Public Health Private Sewage Licensing Act and Code and the Monroe County Private Sewage Ordinance.
    “A permit must be obtained prior to the installation or repair of a private sewage disposal system.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation or repair of a private sewage disposal system.
      “A permit must be obtained prior to the installation or repair of a private sewage disposal system.”
    • Required — Installation or repair of private sewage disposal systems serving facilities or residences not served by public sewer.
      “A permit must be obtained prior to the installation or repair of a private sewage disposal system.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Private sewage complaints, failing systems, and property-transfer or loan inspections.

    • Complaints about nuisance conditions or possible failing systems are inspected.
    • Property-transfer or loan inspections are available for a $200 fee and require an application before scheduling.
    • The source does not state that every new septic installation receives a separately mandatory inspection.

    property transfer or loan inspection fee: 200 USD

    “Complaints regarding nuisance conditions or possible failing private sewage disposal systems may be filed with this department. All complaints are inspected in accordance with the Illinois Department of Public Health Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act & Code and/or the Monroe County Private Sewage Ordinance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Complaint-related inspections and property-transfer or loan inspections for private sewage systems.
      “Complaints regarding nuisance conditions or possible failing private sewage disposal systems may be filed with this department. All complaints are inspected in accordance with the Illinois Department of Public Health Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act & Code and/or the Monroe County Private Sewage Ordinance.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Facilities and residences not served by public sewer systems.

    • A private sewage disposal system is required for the regulated private-sewage context.
    • A permit must be obtained before installation or repair.
    • Applications are reviewed under Illinois Department of Public Health requirements and the Monroe County Private Sewage Ordinance.
    “The Private Sewage Disposal Program regulates methods of sewage disposal from facilities and residences that are not served by public sewer systems.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Sanitation for residences and facilities not served by public sewer.
      “The Private Sewage Disposal Program regulates methods of sewage disposal from facilities and residences that are not served by public sewer systems. By ensuring that all sewage is discharged to a properly designed and operated private sewage disposal system, the Private Sewage Disposal Program helps eliminate transmission of disease and nuisances.”
    • Limited — Facilities and residences not served by public sewer.
      “The Private Sewage Disposal Program regulates methods of sewage disposal from facilities and residences that are not served by public sewer systems.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Land used primarily for agriculture and buildings or structures used primarily for agricultural purposes.

    • Agricultural buildings and structures must meet district setback requirements.
    • If part of a tract ceases to be used solely for agricultural purposes, all code provisions apply to that part.
    “The provisions of this Article shall not be exercised so as to impose regulations with respect to: (A) land used or to be used primarily for agricultural purposes; OR (B) the erection, maintenance, repair, alteration, remodeling, or extension of buildings or structures used or intended to be used for primarily agricultural purposes upon agricultural land, provided, that buildings or structures to be used for agricultural purposes shall be required to meet the district setback requirements.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivisions in Monroe County that will be served by private sewage disposal systems.

    • A subdivision application must be submitted and reviewed when the subdivision is to be serviced by private sewage disposal systems.
    “A Subdivision Application must be submitted and reviewed for all subdivisions in Monroe County that are to be serviced by private sewage disposal systems.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Highway entrances and driveways under Monroe County street regulations.

    • The entrance location must be approved by the legal maintenance authority for the roadway.
    • Culvert size is determined by the highway authority, with a 15-inch minimum unless special road-authority approval is provided.
    • The County Engineer must approve Highway Entrance Permits.

    culvert minimum: >= 15 inches (unless special road-authority approval)

    “Location of entrance shall be approved by the legal maintenance authority for the subject roadway. Culvert size shall be determined by highway authority with a fifteen (15) inch minimum unless provided special road authority approval. The County Engineer has to approve Highway Entrance Permits.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development and construction in county flood-hazard locations.

    • The Zoning Administrator reviews building permit applications for flood safety.
    • Flood-hazard construction must be designed and anchored against flotation, collapse, or lateral movement; use flood-resistant materials and utility equipment; minimize flood damage; provide adequate drainage; and elevate or construct public utilities to minimize or eliminate flood damage.
    “The Zoning Administrator, in reviewing all applications for construction in flood hazard locations within the County shall require that any such proposed construction must: (A) Be designed and anchored to prevent the flotation, collapse or lateral movement of the structure or portions of the structure due to flooding. (B) Use construction materials and utility equipment that are resistant to flood damage.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Floodplain and flood-zoning administration under Monroe County zoning and permitting.
      “The Zoning Office is responsible for: [...] Flood zoning [...] Ensuring the systematic and well-suited development of land use throughout the unincorporated areas of the Monroe County [...] Enforcing the Monroe County Zoning Ordinances”
  • Permit feesPublished

    County zoning and building permit fees published by the Zoning & Building Office.

    • The fee page states that building permits include inspection fees.
    • Special-use, variance, text-amendment, rezoning, and appeal fees may include publication and certified-mail costs where stated.

    building permit fee: per 5 USD per $1,000 of value plus inspection fees · inspection fee: 70 USD per inspection · sign permit fee: 50 USD · home occupation fee: 50 USD · special use fee: 400 USD (Plus cost of publication and certified mail) · area/bulk variance fee: 400 USD (Plus cost of publication and certified mail)

    “Building Permit – $5 per $1,000 of value plus inspection fees Inspection Fee – $70 per inspection”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning and building permit fees.
      “Building Permit – $5 per $1,000 of value plus inspection fees Inspection Fee – $70 per inspection”
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning, building, inspection, and related permit fees.
      “Building Permit – $5 per $1,000 of value plus inspection fees”
  • Permit processPublished

    County building-permit applications and inspection requests.

    • Applications may be submitted online through Cloudpermit.
    • Applicants may start and finish applications later, receive email status updates, and request building inspections with results sent by email.
    • Paper applications are also available for email submission or delivery to the Zoning Office.
    “The Cloudpermit building permit system allows you to apply for and to see the status of your applications anywhere, at any time. You can start an application and finish it later, and receive email updates on the status of your permit application. You can even request building inspections with results sent to your email.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County building-permit application process.
      “The Cloudpermit building permit system allows you to apply for and to see the status of your applications anywhere, at any time. You can start an application and finish it later, and receive email updates on the status of your permit application. You can even request building inspections with results sent to your email.”
    • Published (with conditions) — County building-permit application and inspection process.
      “Monroe County is pleased to offer residents and contractors Cloudpermit – an on-line system to apply for and track your building permits.”

Illinois rules that apply here

  • 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.”
  • 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 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 Monroe County zoning.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and sewer connection requirements.

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 Monroe County, Illinois

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

Monroe County scores 53/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: workable self-sufficiency basics (43″/yr rainfall) and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: about 150,333 people within 15 miles.

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

Monroe County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Monroe County Health Department - Environmental Health. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Monroe County is limited to specific cases: Travel trailer parks and parking or occupancy of travel trailers and recreational vehicles outside a park in unincorporated Monroe County. Outside a park, no more than one unoccupied travel trailer, recreational vehicle, and/or utility trailer may be parked in the side or rear yard or a completely enclosed garage. The vehicle may not exceed ten feet in width or thirty-five feet in length. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Monroe County, Illinois?

Land in Monroe County runs about $8,117 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Monroe County?

Monroe County gets about 43" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.1% of years.

How remote is Monroe County?

A typical private-land location has about 150,333 people within 15 miles and 4,089,788 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Monroe compares in Illinois

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