Bolthole Index

Pulaski County, Illinois

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

66Index Score / 100
#36 of 102 in Illinois

Unincorporated Pulaski County, Illinois generally does not require a county building permit, although the County Board should confirm the answer for a specific project1. County zoning also appears absent, but parcel-specific land-use limits remain unconfirmed2. Southern Seven Health Department issues septic and private-well permits, while the county floodplain coordinator handles local flood questions345.

At a glance

Building permit
Generally not required in unincorporated Pulaski County; confirm the project with the County Board1
Zoning
County zoning appears absent; confirm parcel-specific restrictions with the County Board2
Septic permits
Southern Seven Health Department; permit required before construction67
Septic fee and timing
$200 fee, 6-month validity and 48 hours' notice before construction78
RV or tiny-home living
Private-parcel occupancy is unconfirmed; qualifying campgrounds require state licensing29
Manufactured homes
Installation must follow Illinois installer and installation-code rules10
Private wells
Southern Seven permit required before drilling; inspection follows completion4
Owner-builder
A narrow exemption allows qualifying occupants to do their own plumbing; it is not a general construction exemption1112

Who to call

Septic permits

Southern Seven Health Department

Private sewage-disposal applications, septic permits, system-design guidance, inspections and private-well permits

(618) 634-2297

37 Rustic Campus Drive, Ullin, IL 62992

Floodplain permits

Pulaski County Supervisor of Assessments Office

County floodplain coordination and property assessments

618-748-9321

500 Illinois Ave, Mound City, IL 62963

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

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

Unincorporated Pulaski County generally does not require a county building permit for residential construction, but the county has not published an express exemption1. Illinois does not issue building permits for privately funded construction; any permit requirement is handled by the applicable local government13. Since 2025, Illinois has required a statewide building-code baseline even where a local government has not adopted its own code, with different provisions for residential and commercial work14. Ask the County Board to confirm the parcel, project and applicable code path before ordering materials. New or substantially improved commercial buildings require qualified inspection before occupancy if the applicable Pulaski County jurisdiction has not adopted a building code15.

Who handles Pulaski County building permits and inspections?

Pulaski County does not identify a building or code-enforcement office in the county materials supporting the general no-permit finding1. The State of Illinois does not perform building-code inspections or issue occupancy permits for privately funded projects; those requirements, when applicable, belong to the local government1617. Start with the Pulaski County Board for a written answer on a house, cabin, barn or shop, particularly near municipal boundaries. Illinois protects land used principally for agriculture from county zoning permits and regulation, although agricultural buildings may still have to meet building or setback lines18. The Illinois Accessibility Code separately sets minimum requirements for public facilities and multi-story housing units19. Southern Seven Health Department separately handles septic and private-well permits throughout Pulaski County34.

Does Pulaski County have zoning?

County zoning appears absent in Pulaski County, but the county has not published an express no-zoning statement or zoning ordinance that settles the question2. Do not treat that gap as permission for a particular setback, lot coverage, building height, accessory dwelling or full-time camping plan. Illinois law allows an applicable county zoning district to establish setbacks and building heights, but it provides no single statewide measurement for Pulaski County parcels2021. Ask the County Board to identify any county rules affecting the parcel, and ask the relevant municipality when land lies within or near municipal jurisdiction.

How do septic permits work in Pulaski County?

Southern Seven Health Department issues septic permits and inspects new systems in Pulaski County; IDPH regulates private sewage installation statewide, with local health agencies reviewing plans322. Plan approval is required before construction of a new private sewage system23. The homeowner or an Illinois-licensed private-sewage installer may apply and perform the covered work; submit a complete application, drawing, required signatures and $200 fee before construction7. Southern Seven's fee schedule lists $200 for a private conventional system, non-refundable and non-transferable once the permit is issued24. The permit lasts 6 months; request any extension in writing before expiration7. Give Southern Seven at least 48 hours' notice before construction and call for final inspection and approval before covering the system8. A new or renovated private system generally cannot be approved when a permitted sanitary sewer is available within 300 feet of a residence, subject to stated exceptions25. Only 16.6% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make sewage feasibility an early contract contingency26.

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

We could not confirm a Pulaski County rule that allows or prohibits living full time in an RV or tiny home on private land. County zoning appears absent, but the available county information does not settle RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, minimum dwelling size or accessory dwellings2. Illinois requires IDPH to inspect and license qualifying campgrounds in Pulaski County annually, but that program does not resolve long-term RV occupancy on an individual private parcel9. Off-grid occupancy does not avoid sanitation review: a private sewage system still needs Southern Seven plan review, a permit and final inspection before covering27. A manufactured home must be installed by a licensed installer or the homeowner under the applicable installation instructions or state code, but installation compliance does not establish parcel-level land-use permission10. Ask the County Board for a written occupancy answer before buying.

Building a home in Pulaski County: steps in order

  1. Ask the Pulaski County Board whether the parcel has building-permit, inspection, occupancy or land-use review; building permits generally are not required and zoning appears absent, but confirm both for the project12.
  1. Ask the Supervisor of Assessments Office about floodplain review because that office is the county floodplain coordinator5.
  1. Determine whether a permitted sanitary sewer is available before designing a private system25.
  1. If private sewage is allowed, submit Southern Seven's application and $200 fee before construction7.
  1. Apply to Southern Seven for a private-well permit before drilling; the department inspects the well after completion4.
  1. Obtain an IDOT permit before work in a state-maintained highway right-of-way28.
  1. Give Southern Seven at least 48 hours' notice and obtain final septic approval before covering the system8.

What should you check before buying land in Pulaski County?

Confirm legal access, flood exposure, water supply, sewage feasibility and the parcel's jurisdiction before closing. The Pulaski County Supervisor of Assessments Office is the county floodplain coordinator5. Illinois DNR generally requires a permit before construction in qualifying rural floodways, including streams draining at least 10 square miles, and may regulate the broader floodplain where no floodway has been delineated29. IDNR reviews sufficiently documented inquiries free to determine whether authorization is needed; permit review fees vary by activity and are adjusted annually, so request the current amount before budgeting30. A division creating a parcel smaller than 5 acres generally requires a survey and subdivision plat under the Illinois Plat Act, subject to statutory and local exceptions31. Illinois requires a permit before constructing, modifying or sealing a private well through IDPH or an approved local health department3233. For a new home or business well in Pulaski County, apply through Southern Seven and arrange inspection after completion4.

Watch-outs

  • Pulaski County's published pages do not expressly confirm the building-permit, inspection or certificate-of-occupancy answer; ask the County Board about the specific project1.
  • County zoning appears absent, but no official no-zoning statement was located; confirm setbacks, lot rules and residential uses before closing2.
  • A private septic system may not be approved where a permitted sanitary sewer is available for connection25.
  • Southern Seven requires final inspection and approval before a new septic system is covered34.

Sources

  1. Pulaski County IL official website (departments) (2026 county census)
  2. Pulaski County IL official website (departments) (2026 county census)
  3. Private Sewage Disposal & Water Supply Program - Southern 7 Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  4. Private Sewage Disposal & Water Supply Program - Southern 7 Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  5. Pulaski County Supervisor of Assessments Office (pulaskicountyil.net)
  6. Southern Seven Health Department - Private Sewage Disposal Program (2026 county census)
  7. Southern Seven Health Department Application for a Permit to Construct, Install or Repair a Private Sewage Disposal System, quoted and re-checked
  8. Private Sewage Disposal & Water Supply Program - Southern 7 Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  9. Youth Camps and Campgrounds, quoted and re-checked
  10. Manufactured & Modular Homes/Mobile Structures, quoted and re-checked
  11. HB5913 Enrolled — Illinois Plumbing License Law amendment (2026 county census)
  12. 225 ILCS 320/18 — Local regulation; Department standards (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Illinois Codes FAQ (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Codes and Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Codes and Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  16. Illinois Codes FAQ (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Illinois Codes FAQ (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. 55 ILCS 5/5-12001 — Authority to regulate and restrict location and use of structures, quoted and re-checked
  19. Illinois Codes, quoted and re-checked
  20. ilga.gov (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. 55 ILCS 5/5-12001 — Authority to regulate and restrict location and use of structures (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. Private Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  23. Private Sewage Disposal, quoted and re-checked
  24. Southern Seven Health Department Environmental Health Division Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  25. 77 Illinois Administrative Code 905 Private Sewage Disposal Code, quoted and re-checked
  26. 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
  27. Private Sewage Disposal & Water Supply Program - Southern 7 Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  28. Highway Permits (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Permit Program - Illinois Department of Natural Resources, quoted and re-checked
  30. Illinois Permit Application Fees - Water Resources, quoted and re-checked
  31. 765 ILCS 205/ Plat Act, quoted and re-checked
  32. 77 Ill. Admin. Code 920.130, Water Well Permit Requirements (Illinois statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Private Water & Closed Loop Wells, quoted and re-checked
  34. Private Sewage Disposal & Water Supply Program - Southern 7 Health Department, 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

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Pulaski County requires no county building permit for a home.

RulePulaski CountyAlexander CountyUnion CountyJohnson CountyMassac CountyPope CountyWilliamson County
Building permitNot requiredLimitedRequiredLimitedLimitedLimitedRequired
County zoningNoNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedNot published
Septic permitsSouthern Seven Health Dept.Southern Seven Health Dept.Southern Seven Health Dept.Southern 7 Health Dept.Southern Seven Health Dept.Southern Seven Health Dept.Franklin-Williamson Bicounty Health Dept.

County locator

Pulaski County in Illinois

66
County map
Pulaski County highlighted among the Illinois counties · colored by Index score

How Pulaski County scores

Seclusion52100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency63100% ev.
Admin Boringness8090% ev.
Durability45100% ev.
Property Autonomy42100% ev.
Carry Cost64100% 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 →

$75kTypical home
0.8%Property tax
$5,494Land / acre
49.5"Annual rain
4.5% of yrsSevere drought
13.9 / yr (+12.6)Mid-century 100°F days
16.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.48" (+7.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.74×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,899Home insurance / yr
4.7% / yrInsurance growth
1.45%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
23,326People within 30 min
1,246,919People within 2 hr
20,374Radius comparison (15 mi)
24.6People / sq mi
9.9%Federal land
93.9%Land at 15% slope or less
16.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
20,690 acWorkable land screen
31.3%Wooded land
48.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
57.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Pulaski 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: Mound City · Mounds · Village of New Grand Chain · Village of Olmsted · Village of Pulaski · Village of Ullin

Answers from the rulebook for Pulaski County

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

Pulaski County rules

  • Who permits septicLocal

    Private sewage disposal administration in Pulaski County by the Southern Seven Health Department, which serves Pulaski and six other counties.

    • The source identifies Southern Seven Health Department as serving Alexander, Hardin, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, and Union Counties.
    • The department's environmental health staff review sewage system applications, issue septic permits, inspect new sewage disposal systems, investigate complaints, and carry out enforcement activities warranted by county ordinances.
    “Through the private sewage disposal program, our Environmental Health staff inspect pumper trucks, review sewage system applications, issue septic permits, offer guidance when designing a sewage disposal system, and inspect new sewage disposal systems.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Local — Private sewage disposal permitting and inspection in Pulaski County through Southern Seven Health Department, which serves Pulaski and six other counties.
      “Through the private sewage disposal program, our Environmental Health staff inspect pumper trucks, review sewage system applications, issue septic permits, offer guidance when designing a sewage disposal system, and inspect new sewage disposal systems. [...] Serving: Alexander, Hardin, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, & Union County”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, or repair of private sewage disposal systems in Pulaski County within Southern Seven Health Department's service area.

    • Only the homeowner or a State of Illinois Private Sewage System Installation Contractor may apply for a permit and construct, alter, or extend the system.
    • A $200 fee must be paid to Southern Seven Health Department before construction work begins.
    • The application must be complete, include the required drawing and check-off items, and include signatures of both the homeowner and contractor.
    • If a geothermal well, water softener, swimming pool, or hot tub will be installed, additional information is required before permit issuance.
    • If the property is less than one acre, additional documentation may be required.
    • The permit will not be issued without the required documents and information.
    • The permit is valid for six months after issuance; an extension must be submitted in writing before expiration.
    • The Southern Seven Health Department must be notified 48 hours before construction so routine field visits may be made.
    • An NPDES permit must be obtained if required.
    • The licensed contractor remains responsible for installation compliance with the Illinois Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act and Code and the County Private Sewage System Disposal Ordinance.
    • The homeowner's signature acknowledges responsibility to service and maintain the system and maintain maintenance records.
    • The permit does not guarantee trouble-free operation or final approval.

    permit fee: 200 USD (Paid before construction work begins) · permit validity: 6 months (Written extension request must be submitted before expiration) · advance construction notice: >= 48 hours (Notice allows routine field visits)

    “Only the homeowner or a State of Illinois Private Sewage System Installation Contractor may apply for a permit and construct, alter or extend a private sewage disposal system.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, repair, alteration, or extension of a private sewage disposal system in Pulaski County.
      “PROCEDURES FOR OBTAINING A PERMIT TO INSTALL A PRIVATE SEWAGE SYSTEM”
    • Required — Construction, installation, or repair of a private sewage disposal system in Pulaski County under the Southern Seven Health Department program.
      “APPLICATION FOR A PERMIT TO CONSTRUCT, INSTALL OR REPAIR A PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM [...] A $200.00 fee shall be paid to Southern Seven Health Department (S7HD) prior to any construction work. [...] A permit to construct a private sewage disposal system is valid for 6 months after issuance date. An extension of time may be obtained only if it is submitted in writing prior to the expiration date.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    New private sewage disposal systems in Pulaski County within Southern Seven Health Department's service area.

    • Southern Seven Health Department must receive at least 48 hours' notice before construction so routine field visits may be made.
    • The contractor must call for final inspection and approval before the system is covered.
    • The licensed contractor is responsible for being present during installation and complying with the Illinois Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act and Code and the County Private Sewage System Disposal Ordinance.
    • Final approval does not guarantee trouble-free operation.

    inspection notice: >= 48 hours (Notice is required before construction begins)

    “I, as the Contractor, agree to notify the Southern Seven Health Department at least 48 hours before any construction work is to begin and I further agree that I will call for final inspection and approval of this system before covering.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New private sewage disposal system construction in Pulaski County.
      “I will call for final inspection and approval of this system before covering.”
    • Required — New private sewage disposal systems in Pulaski County under the Southern Seven Health Department program.
      “Southern Seven Health Department is to be notified 48 hours prior to beginning construction in order that routine field visits may be made to determine if construction meets current guidelines. [...] I, as the Contractor, agree to notify the Southern Seven Health Department at least 48 hours before any construction work is to begin and I further agree that I will call for final inspection and approval of this system before covering.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Private, non-municipal sewage disposal systems serving property in Pulaski County.

    • Private sewage systems are subject to plan approval and a permit before construction.
    • The Southern Seven application requires a $200 fee, complete application materials, and a final inspection before covering.
    • Surface-discharging systems may also require an NPDES permit if wastewater enters waters of the United States.

    permit fee: 200 USD · permit validity: 6 months (extension must be submitted in writing before expiration)

    “In a rural area such as the southern seven counties, many homes and businesses do not have access to municipal or city water and sewage disposal systems. Our sewage and water programs assure that sewage and water systems are designed according to code so that neither your health nor the environment is jeopardized. [...] Through the private sewage disposal program, our Environmental Health staff inspect pumper trucks, review sewage system applications, issue septic permits, offer guidance when designing a sewage disposal system, and inspect new sewage disposal systems.”
  • Well permitRequired

    New private water wells for homes or businesses in Pulaski County within Southern Seven Health Department's service area.

    • Applicants should contact Southern Seven Environmental Health staff to apply for a water well permit.
    • Southern Seven conducts an inspection after the well is completed.
    • New water supply inspections follow the Illinois Water Well Construction Code, Illinois Pump Installation Code, and Illinois Drinking Water Systems Code.
    • The program also inspects and samples non-community and existing private water supply wells.
    “It is important that you contact the Environmental Health staff to apply for a water well permit. Our staff will also conduct an inspection of your well once it is completed.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — A new private water well for a home or business in Pulaski County.
      “Planning to drill a well for your new home or business? It is important that you contact the Environmental Health staff to apply for a water well permit. Our staff will also conduct an inspection of your well once it is completed. As with some of our other programs, our office is also responsible for carrying out enforcement activities in regard to non-community water supplies.”
    • Required — A new private water well for a home or business in Pulaski County.
      “Planning to drill a well for your new home or business? It is important that you contact the Environmental Health staff to apply for a water well permit. Our staff will also conduct an inspection of your well once it is completed. [...] Serving: Alexander, Hardin, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, & Union County”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Private, conventional sewage disposal system permits administered for Pulaski County by the Southern Seven Health Department.

    • The fee schedule is for the Southern Seven Health Department Environmental Health Division, which serves Alexander, Hardin, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, and Union Counties.
    • The schedule is labeled “Feeschedule, 03/23, rm”; this revision notation is not treated as an effective date.
    • All permit fees are non-transferable and non-refundable once a permit has been issued by the Health Department.

    private, conventional sewage disposal system permit fee: 200 USD

    “E1019 Private, Conventional Sewage Disposal System Permit $200.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Private sewage disposal permitting and inspection in Pulaski County through the Southern Seven Health Department.

    • Southern Seven serves Pulaski County as one of seven counties.
    • The process concerns private sewage disposal systems and does not establish a general county building-permit process.
    “review sewage system applications, issue septic permits [...] inspect new sewage disposal systems.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county zoning or planning department appears in Pulaski County's official department directory; municipal zoning is handled within incorporated towns only.

    Pulaski County IL official website (departments) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Illinois rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Privately funded construction in Illinois; the State does not itself issue building permits, while any required permit is addressed by the applicable local government.

    • Permit requirements may be imposed and administered by the municipality, village, city, or county having jurisdiction.
    • The Illinois Capital Development Board states that statewide building codes became effective 1/1/2025, while local code officials remain the best source for project-specific answers.

    statewide building-code effective date: 2025-01-01

    “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — Issuance of building permits by the State of Illinois for privately funded construction.
      “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner occupants or lessee occupants of single-family residences, and owners of single-family residences under construction for their own occupancy, performing plumbing planning, installation, alteration, or repair in Illinois.

    • The exemption is limited to plumbing work on the specified single-family residence; the cited statute does not establish a general owner-builder exemption for all construction trades or a statewide exemption from building permits.
    • The plumbing must comply with the minimum standards in the Illinois State Plumbing Code.
    • The plumbing is subject to inspection by the Illinois Department of Public Health or by the local governmental unit if it retains a licensed plumber as inspector.
    • The owner, owner occupant, or lessee occupant may not employ anyone other than a plumber licensed under the Illinois Plumbing License Law to assist.
    • An occupant must have taken possession of and be living in the premises as their bona fide sole and exclusive residence, or, for a residence under construction, expect to take possession and live there as that residence, with current intent to live there for at least 6 months after completion of the plumbing work or, for a residence under construction, at least 6 months after completion of construction.
    • Failure to possess and live in the premises as a sole and exclusive residence for 6 months or more creates a rebuttable presumption that the required intent was lacking.

    minimum occupancy period: >= 6 months (After completion of plumbing work; for a residence under construction, after completion of construction.)

    “Nothing herein contained shall prohibit the owner occupant or lessee occupant of a single family residence, or the owner of a single family residence under construction for his or her occupancy, from planning, installing, altering or repairing the plumbing system of such residence”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Privately funded construction in Illinois, including projects performed by an owner-builder, as to state-issued building permits, state plan review, state building-code inspections, and state occupancy permits.
      “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
    • Conditional — Statewide treatment of local plumbing permits and inspections for qualifying owner occupants performing plumbing work on a single-family residence.
      “Nothing contained in this Act shall prohibit any city, town, village, township or county from providing for a Plumbing Inspector or from requiring permits for the installation and repair of plumbing and collecting a fee therefor, but a city, town, village, township, or county that requires a permit for installation and repair of plumbing may not issue that permit without verification that the applicant has a valid plumbing license or that the applicant is the owner occupant of a single family residence that is the subject of the permit.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Building-code requirements statewide in Illinois, including residential and commercial construction subject to the Capital Development Board Act baseline requirements.

    • Effective 2025-01-01, Illinois requires statewide baseline building-code requirements.
    • Local governments may adopt building codes, but they are not required to adopt codes; jurisdictions that do not adopt a code are treated as non-building-code jurisdictions and must follow the applicable state-law baseline requirements.
    • For jurisdictions with adopted codes, local codes must regulate structural design at least as stringently as the applicable IRC, IBC, or IEBC baseline.
    • Commercial buildings in non-building-code jurisdictions and state-funded buildings are subject to the state-listed codes and qualified-inspection requirements.
    • Residential requirements differ depending on whether the jurisdiction has adopted a compliant building code and whether the home purchaser and builder agree to an alternative code.

    statewide baseline effective date: 2025-01-01 · local code structural minimum for residential buildings: IRC minimum structural requirements · local code structural minimum for commercial new buildings: IBC minimum structural requirements · local code structural minimum for existing commercial buildings: IEBC minimum structural requirements

    “The State of Illinois recently passed legislation (Public Act 103-0510) changing the Capital Development Board Act to require statewide building codes effective 1/1/2025. [...] Commercial buildings in jurisdictions that have not adopted a building code AND state funded buildings. [...] Starting 1/1/25 local codes must regulate the structural design in a manner that is at least as stringent as the IBC© for new buildings or IEBC© for existing buildings. [...] Residential buildings in jurisdictions that have not adopted a building code where agreed to by the home purchaser and home builder. [...] Residential buildings in jurisdictions that have adopted a building code. [...] Starting 1/1/25 local codes must regulate the structural design in a manner that is at least as stringent as the IRC©.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Public facilities and multi-story housing units in Illinois, including all spaces and elements within them as defined in the Illinois Accessibility Code.
      “The Illinois Accessibility Code implements the Environmental Barriers Act. The Code includes design requirements for public facilities and multi-story housing units as defined in the Code as well as all spaces and elements within them. It has the force of a building code in Illinois. The Code constitutes the minimum requirements and any governmental unit may enact stricter standards to increase access.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Statewide Illinois building-code baseline applicable to jurisdictions and construction governed by the Capital Development Board Act.
      “require statewide baseline building codes effective 1/1/2025. Locally adopted building codes must comply with the requirements of the Act.”
    • Adopted — Statewide baseline building-code requirements for residential construction in Illinois, including jurisdictions with and without locally adopted building codes.
      “Please be advised that the State of Illinois recently passed legislation (Public Act 103-0510) changing the Capital Development Board Act to require statewide baseline building codes effective 1/1/2025. Locally adopted building codes must comply with the requirements of the Act.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    New or substantially improved commercial buildings in Illinois jurisdictions that have not adopted a building code, including any applicable unincorporated Pulaski County area if it is a non-building-code jurisdiction.

    • The property owner or owner's agent must contract for inspection by a qualified inspector before occupancy.
    • The qualified inspector must file a certification of inspection with the municipality or county having jurisdiction.
    • The certification must state compliance with the applicable IEBC, IBC, NEC, Illinois Energy Conservation Code, Illinois Accessibility Code, Illinois Plumbing Code, and Fire Prevention and Safety Rules identified by the Capital Development Board.
    • The requirement applies only where the relevant municipality or county is a non-building-code jurisdiction; a municipality or county is not required to adopt a building code, and if it does not adopt one, section 10.09-1 applies.
    • The source states that non-state buildings must be inspected by a qualified inspector; it does not establish that Pulaski County itself is a non-building-code jurisdiction.
    • State-funded buildings are separately included in the Capital Development Board summary and must comply with the listed codes.
    • The Capital Development Board page states that the statewide building-code legislation is effective January 1, 2025.
    • The Capital Development Board page advises consulting a design professional regarding exceptions, exemptions, and other codes that may apply.
    “Commercial buildings in jurisdictions that have not adopted a building code AND state funded buildings. [...] Non-state buildings must be inspected by a qualified inspector stating the building complies with the above codes.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Building-code-compliance inspections performed by the State of Illinois for privately funded construction.
      “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
    • Limited — Privately funded construction statewide in Illinois, as to inspections performed by the State rather than by a local authority having jurisdiction.
      “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Occupancy permits or certificates for privately funded construction in Illinois.

    • The State does not issue occupancy permits for privately funded construction.
    • If an occupancy permit is required, it is addressed by the applicable unit of local government.
    “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — Issuance of occupancy permits or certificates by the State of Illinois for privately funded construction.
      “No. If any of these are required, they would be addressed by the unit of local government.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    County zoning regulations for building or setback lines outside municipalities with municipal zoning ordinances.

    • The actual setback distances are established by applicable county zoning districts or other local ordinances.
    • Agricultural buildings may be required to conform to building or setback lines.
    “to establish building or setback lines”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    County zoning districts outside municipalities with municipal zoning ordinances.

    • The applicable county zoning ordinance determines the actual height limit by district or use.
    • No single statewide height measurement was identified.
    “including height of buildings and structures”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Occupancy of manufactured homes as dwellings, including occupancy in manufactured home communities regulated by IDPH.

    • Manufactured home communities with 5 or more sites must be licensed by IDPH, except communities located in home rule units.
    • IDPH annually inspects licensed communities for renewal, including water, sewage disposal, electrical systems, lighting, roads, spacing of homes, and garbage disposal.
    • Manufactured homes moved since January 1, 1980 must be secured using equipment meeting IDPH standards.
    • Effective December 31, 2001, manufactured homes must be installed by an Illinois licensed manufactured home installer or the homeowner and installed according to manufacturer instructions; if unavailable, the IDPH Manufactured Home Installation Code applies.
    • Local zoning, building, floodplain, and utility requirements may also apply.

    manufactured home community license threshold: >= 5 sites (Communities located in home rule units are excepted from this IDPH licensing statement.) · moved-home tiedown requirement effective date: >= 1980-01-01 · installation requirement effective date: >= 2001-12-31

    “designed and situated so as to permit its occupancy as a dwelling place for one or more persons”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Manufactured homes installed for occupancy in Illinois, including Pulaski County.
      “requires all manufactured homes to be installed by an Illinois licensed manufactured home installer or the homeowner. [...] Department's Manufactured Home Installation Code.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Sanitary-sewer availability and connection requirements affecting private sewage disposal systems in Pulaski County.

    • New or renovated private sewage disposal systems may not be approved when an IEPA-permitted sanitary sewer is available for connection.
    • A sewer is deemed available when within 300 feet of a residential property or a non-residential property with sewage flow less than 1,500 gallons per day.
    • For non-residential property with sewage flow greater than or equal to 1,500 gallons per day, the availability distance is 1,000 feet.
    • The sewer-connection rule does not apply when a physical barrier or local ordinance prevents connection.
    • A private sewage disposal system may be installed when connection cannot be made with an individual line, such as a 4-inch line.
    • The cited amendment states an effective date of August 28, 2013.

    residential or low-flow sewer distance: <= 300 feet (Residential property or non-residential property with sewage flow less than 1,500 gallons per day) · high-flow non-residential sewer distance: <= 1000 feet (Non-residential property with sewage flow greater than or equal to 1,500 gallons per day) · individual sewer line: 4-inch line (If connection cannot be made, private sewage disposal may be installed)

    “New or renovated private sewage disposal systems shall not be approved where a sanitary sewer operated and maintained under permit of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is available for connection. A sanitary sewer is available for connection when it is within 300 feet of a residential property or a non-residential property with a sewage flow less than 1500 gallons per day, or within 1000 feet of a non-residential property with a sewage flow greater than or equal to 1500 gallons per day, unless a physical barrier or local ordinance exists that prevents connection to the sewer.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    County zoning powers over agricultural land and agricultural buildings in Illinois, including unincorporated Pulaski County.

    • The agricultural purpose must constitute the principal activity on the land.
    • The statutory agricultural-land protection has population-based exceptions for parcels under 5 acres in counties with populations between 300,000 and 400,000, contiguous counties, and counties with populations over 400,000.
    • Agricultural buildings may still be required to conform to building or setback lines.
    • Counties may establish a minimum lot size for residences on land used for agricultural purposes.
    • Extraction of sand, gravel, or limestone is not included in agricultural purposes and may be regulated by county zoning ordinance even when related to an agricultural purpose.
    • The statute also preserves restrictions on temporary contractor facilities, including a possible 1,000-foot separation from residential buildings and a duration no longer than the construction contract.
    • The statute source note states P.A. 104-468 is effective June 16, 2026.

    minimum separation for temporary contractor facilities: >= 1000 feet (Facilities used by contractors in the ordinary course of construction activities may be required to be located this distance from any building used for residential purposes.) · agricultural-building permit fee: 0 USD (The statute provides that permits for erection, maintenance, repair, alteration, remodeling, or extension of agricultural buildings are issued free of charge.)

    “shall they be exercised so as to impose regulations, eliminate uses, buildings, or structures, or require permits with respect to land used for agricultural purposes”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in Pulaski County, including land outside incorporated municipalities and land subject to a municipal official plan.

    • When land is divided into 2 or more parts and any part is less than 5 acres, the land must be surveyed and a subdivision plat prepared by an Illinois Registered Land Surveyor.
    • The plat must include required streets, easements, parcels, lots, blocks, monuments, and required topographic and profile studies.
    • The Plat Act does not apply, and no subdivision plat is required, for divisions into parcels or tracts of 5 acres or more that do not involve new streets or easements of access.
    • Other statutory exemptions include certain divisions of lots or blocks in recorded subdivisions, transfers between adjoining landowners, public-purpose or utility conveyances, corrections of prior descriptions, divisions into no more than 2 parts of certain parcels existing on July 17, 1959, and wind-energy plats.
    • A single lot of less than 5 acres may be sold from a larger tract when surveyed by an Illinois Registered Land Surveyor, but the exemption does not apply to subsequent lots from the same larger tract and does not invalidate local subdivision requirements.
    • Counties may adopt standards, ordinances, or specifications reducing the acreage minimum below 5 acres but not below 2 acres, or supplementing the Act's requirements.
    • For land outside incorporated cities, villages, or towns and not affected by a municipal official plan, the plat must be submitted to the county board for approval.
    • Approval requires the statutory drainage statement and written approvals concerning roadway access and, where applicable, sewage disposal.

    plat threshold: < 5 acres (A plat is generally required when any resulting part is less than 5 acres.) · county-reducible acreage minimum: >= 2 acres (A county may reduce the statutory acreage minimum, but not below 2 acres.)

    “any of which is less than 5 acres, he must have it surveyed and a subdivision plat thereof made”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Work within the right-of-way of an Interstate, U.S. state route, Illinois state route, or state-maintained roadway, including access-driveway requests to State highways.

    • A permit must be obtained before work begins.
    • Requirements may vary by IDOT district; the applicant must contact the district office for specific requirements.
    • IDOT's access-driveway handbook guides what is allowable for highway access requests.
    “Per 605 ILCS 5/4 209, IDOT requires a permit when working within the right-of-way of an Interstate, U.S. state route, Illinois state route, or state maintained roadway. A permit must be obtained prior to the start of any work and a copy of the approved permit must be at the worksite at all times.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development and construction in applicable floodways or otherwise regulated floodplain areas in Pulaski County, Illinois.

    • Illinois DNR regulates construction in floodways of streams in rural areas where the stream drainage area is ten square miles or more.
    • If a floodway has not been previously delineated, the Division generally requires permits for work anywhere in the floodplain.
    • Common minor activities may be automatically authorized by statewide permits if their terms and conditions are met.
    • Local floodplain-management regulations may impose additional permit requirements.
    • The source does not establish that every parcel in Pulaski County is regulated.

    rural stream drainage area threshold: >= 10 square miles (The rule concerns construction in applicable floodways; the source separately states that permits are generally required anywhere in a floodplain where no floodway has been delineated.)

    “in rural areas where the stream drainage area is ten square miles or more must be permitted by the Division prior to construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction activities in regulated Illinois floodways and, where a floodway has not been delineated, generally work anywhere in the floodplain.
      “All construction activities in the floodways of streams (the channel and the adjacent portion of the floodplain that is needed to safely convey and store flood waters) in urban areas where the stream drainage area is one square mile or more or in rural areas where the stream drainage area is ten square miles or more must be permitted by the Division prior to construction.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

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

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

    rental period: < 30 consecutive days

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

    Temporary parking or occupancy of recreational vehicles in campgrounds located in Pulaski County, Illinois.

    • The site must meet the Illinois statutory campground definition: three or more tents, cabins, recreational vehicles, or other permanent or non-permanent shelters maintained for camping, or space for camping or temporary RV parking for 10 or more persons for six or more camping days during a calendar year.
    • IDPH must annually inspect and license the campground.
    • Campgrounds within home rule units of government are exempt from the state campground requirement.
    • IDPH inspects water supply, sewage disposal, electrical systems, general sanitation, food service, and recreational facilities.
    • IDPH reviews construction plans for all new campgrounds and major expansions or alterations of existing campgrounds.

    minimum shelters or units: >= 3 structures/tents/cabins/RVs/shelters · minimum persons: >= 10 persons (applies when space is provided for camping or temporary RV parking) · minimum camping days: >= 6 days per calendar year (applies with the 10-person threshold)

    “State law requires the IDPH to annually inspect and license campgrounds in Illinois.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Overnight camping in Illinois campgrounds subject to the Campground Licensing and Recreational Area Act.
      ““Camping Day” means any 24 hour period or portion thereof during which the participants remain overnight at the site.”
  • county building authorityLimited

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

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

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • Local zoning — Whether any city or village in Pulaski County adopted a general land-use planning or zoning ordinance after February 15, 2010.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts applicable to unincorporated Pulaski County, Illinois.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Pulaski County, Illinois.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in unincorporated Pulaski County, Illinois.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage limits in unincorporated Pulaski County, Illinois.
2 more unanswered
  • Tiny homes
  • Accessory dwellings

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 Pulaski County, Illinois

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

Pulaski County scores 66/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

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

How much does land cost in Pulaski County, Illinois?

Land in Pulaski County runs about $5,494 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Pulaski County?

Pulaski County gets about 49.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4.5% of years.

How remote is Pulaski County?

A representative private-land location has about 23,326 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,246,919 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 Pulaski compares in Illinois

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