Bolthole Index

Brown County, Indiana

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Brown County, Indiana

68Index Score / 100
#18 of 92 in Indiana

Brown County, Indiana generally requires a building permit before a person or business erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure, although the county lists limited exemptions12. Brown County zoning applies in the unincorporated county, while the Town of Nashville has separate zoning34. Septic permits and inspections go through the Brown County Health Department56.

At a glance

Building permit
Generally required; limited exemptions include certain one-story detached accessory buildings of 120 square feet or less12
Zoning
Yes in unincorporated Brown County; Nashville has separate municipal zoning74
Living in an RV or camper
Not allowed as a long-term or permanent dwelling8
Septic authority
Brown County Health Department5
Soils for a conventional septic field
0% of mapped soil is rated without severe limitations; obtain a site evaluation910
Accessory dwelling unit
One per lot, from 400 to 1,300 square feet and no larger than 75% of the primary building11
Owner-builder
An owner may apply, but no exemption from building permits or code compliance is established12
Minimum home size
Varies by zoning district and dwelling type; one-story single-family minimums range from 240 to 900 square feet13

Who to call

Building permits

Brown County Building Department

Building permits, plan review, contractor licensing on file, and construction inspections for Brown County

812-988-5490

201 Locust Lane, 2nd Floor, Nashville, IN 47448

Zoning

Brown County Area Planning Commission

Zoning administration, zoning permits, home occupation and short-term-rental special exceptions, and addressing for Brown County

812-988-5490

201 Locust Lane, 2nd Floor, Nashville, IN 47448

Septic permits

Brown County Health Department

Septic site evaluations, permits, inspections, investigations and contractor registration for Brown County

(812) 988-2255

bchealth@browncounty-in.gov

200 Hawthorne Drive, PO Box 281, Nashville, IN 47448

Septic permits

Brown County Health Department — Septic & Waste Water

Site evaluations, septic permits, installation inspections, malfunction investigations and contractor registration for Brown County

Roads & driveways

Brown County Highway Department

Driveway permits, logging permits and culvert installation for access onto Brown County roads

(812) 988-4545

711 Greasy Creek Rd, Nashville, IN 47448

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

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Do you need a building permit in Brown County, Indiana?

Yes, in most cases. Brown County requires a building permit before a person or business erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure1. Listed exemptions include certain one-story detached accessory buildings of 120 square feet or less, retaining walls, fences and specified interior or replacement work, although separate plumbing, electrical or mechanical permits may still be required2. An owner may apply for the building permit, but the county material does not establish an owner-builder exemption from permits or code compliance12. Plans must conform to the adopted Indiana Building Code and applicable state and federal codes14. Residential permits require setback, trench-and-footing, rough-in and final inspections with at least 48 hours of notice15. A permitted residence or structure may not be occupied until the Brown County Building Commissioner issues a certificate of occupancy16.

Who is the Brown County building department, and how do you reach them?

The Brown County Building Department is at 201 Locust Lane, 2nd Floor, Nashville, IN 47448, and its phone number is 812-988-549017. The Building Department handles building permits, plan review, contractor records and construction inspections17. Brown County's application requires project information, ownership documentation, a site plan, zoning and floodplain compliance, Health Department approval when applicable, and driveway approval when applicable18. Residential applicants submit two identical plan sets, and the Building Department may require corrections and resubmission before issuing the permit18. Brown County also requires contractors to obtain an annual county contractor license19. The Area Planning Commission shares the Locust Lane address and phone number and handles zoning matters20. Ask the Building Department how its one-permit workflow applies to the exact parcel, because its webpage describes that system with unclear incorporated-area wording17.

Does Brown County have zoning?

Yes. Brown County's zoning ordinance governs unincorporated land, while the Town of Nashville has separate zoning34. Ask the Area Planning Commission for the parcel's mapped district because dwelling size, lot size, lot coverage, setbacks and height vary by district2113222324. One-story single-family minimums range from 240 square feet in forest reserve to 900 square feet in R1, while several other districts require 500 or 600 square feet25. A single-family lot using an individual septic system generally requires 3 acres in forest reserve, R1 and R2, or 0.5 acre in lake residential, general business and accommodation business, with separate subdivision exceptions22. Front setbacks are measured from the road centerline and vary by road26. Unincorporated Brown County permits one accessory dwelling unit per lot subject to size, sewage, setback, height and ownership restrictions11.

How do septic permits work in Brown County?

The Brown County Health Department issues septic permits for new and repaired on-site wastewater systems and specifies the required system and location5. Start with a soil analysis by a registered soil scientist; the Health Department uses it to prepare a specification sheet, then requires the application and bedroom affidavit, house plans, elevations, deed, plot plan and installer's layout27. The published septic-permit fees are $150 for pipe-and-gravel systems and $250 for Presby or mound systems, and the permit is valid for one year27. The department inspects every installation for compliance with Indiana rule 410 IAC 6-8.36. Call (812) 988-2255 or email bchealth@browncounty-in.gov28. Brown County's mapped soils show 0% rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site-specific soil evaluation an early purchase contingency910.

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

Brown County prohibits using a camper or recreational vehicle for long-term living or as a permanent dwelling in the unincorporated county because those units do not meet residential square-footage and building-code requirements8. We could not confirm a rule for temporary camping on private property, so ask the Area Planning Commission before staying in an RV while building20. A primary tiny home is regulated as a dwelling: outside Nashville, it must meet the zoning district's floor-area minimum and separately obtain the required building permit25. A tiny home proposed as an accessory dwelling unit is limited to one per lot, from 400 to 1,300 square feet and no larger than 75% of the primary building29. An accessory dwelling unit must have compliant sewage service, cannot be sold separately or used as a short-term rental, and may be rented only for terms of at least 31 days29.

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

  1. Ask the Area Planning Commission for the parcel's zoning district and confirm minimum lot and dwelling size, lot coverage, setbacks, height, floodplain review and any special approvals21221323262430.
  2. Have a registered soil scientist prepare the soil analysis needed to begin the Health Department's septic-permit process27.
  3. Obtain the proper driveway approval before the building permit if new construction connects to a county, state or Nashville-maintained public road; no driveway permit is required for a private road or an existing driveway serving an addition or accessory structure31.
  4. Prepare the site plan, ownership documents and two identical residential plan sets, plus any required health, zoning and floodplain approvals18.
  5. Apply through the Building Department and confirm current submittal standards and fees; the published residence fee is $125 plus $0.07 per square foot32.
  6. Call for the setback, trench-and-footing, rough-in and final inspections with at least 48 hours of notice15.
  7. Complete the driveway, culvert, septic and drainage work, pass final inspection, and receive the certificate of occupancy before moving in33.

What should you check before buying land in Brown County?

Make septic feasibility the first contingency: 0% of Brown County's mapped soil is rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, and the Health Department uses certified soil analysis to decide site suitability910. Brown County is 90% wooded, while 39% of its land has a slope of 15% or less, so inspect the proposed house, septic and driveway locations together3435. Ask whether a parcel split has completed primary and secondary plat approval, any required road acceptance, and recording; Brown County's subdivision rules apply outside Nashville's jurisdiction36. For access from a county road, the Highway Department accepts applications at 711 Greasy Creek Rd, Nashville, IN 47448, and the published private-driveway application fee is $6537. A connection to a state highway instead goes through INDOT's electronic permit system38. Brown County's effective property-tax rate is about 0.5%, and its median annual property-tax bill is about $1,1413940.

Watch-outs

  • The Building Department describes its one-permit system with unclear incorporated-area wording, so ask how that workflow applies to your specific parcel17.
  • Brown County's temporary-camping rule could not be confirmed; ask the Area Planning Commission before planning an RV stay while building20.
  • A property owner may apply for a building permit, but Brown County's published material does not establish an owner-builder exemption from permits, inspections, licensing or code compliance12.

Sources

  1. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  2. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  3. Brown County Indiana Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  4. Brown County Indiana Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  5. Brown County: Septic & Waste Water, quoted and re-checked
  6. Brown County: Septic & Waste Water, quoted and re-checked
  7. Brown County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  8. Planning Department, quoted and re-checked
  9. 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
  10. Brown County Health Department — Septic & Waste Water (in.gov)
  11. Brown County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  12. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  13. Brown County Zoning Ordinance 2024, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  17. Brown County Building Department (browncounty-in.gov)
  18. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  19. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  20. Brown County Area Planning Commission (browncounty-in.gov)
  21. Brown County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  22. Brown County Zoning Ordinance 2024, quoted and re-checked
  23. Brown County Zoning Ordinance 2024, quoted and re-checked
  24. Brown County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  25. Brown County Zoning Ordinance 2024, quoted and re-checked
  26. Brown County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  27. Brown County Health Department: Steps on how to obtain a septic permit, quoted and re-checked
  28. Brown County Health Department (in.gov)
  29. Brown County Zoning Ordinance 2024, quoted and re-checked
  30. browncounty-in.gov, quoted and re-checked
  31. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  32. Building Permits in Brown County, quoted and re-checked
  33. Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  34. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Subdivision Control Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  37. Brown County Highway Department (browncounty-in.gov)
  38. INDOT Driveway Permit Guide 2024 (Indiana statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  39. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  40. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Brown County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleBrown CountyMonroe CountyBartholomew CountyJohnson CountyJackson CountyMorgan CountyLawrence County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Brown County in Indiana

68
County map
Brown County highlighted among the Indiana counties · colored by Index score

How Brown County scores

Seclusion44100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency64100% ev.
Admin Boringness4190% ev.
Durability75100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost70100% 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 →

$373kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$7,090Land / acre
47.4"Annual rain
3.5% of yrsSevere drought
4.1 / yr (+3.9)Mid-century 100°F days
13.4 daysMid-century dry spell
1.87" (+8.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.86×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,767Home insurance / yr
1.6% / yrInsurance growth
0.96%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
20,710People within 30 min
4,767,078People within 2 hr
81,887Radius comparison (15 mi)
50.2People / sq mi
14.4%Federal land
39%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
90%Wooded land
68 tonsBiomass / forest ac
53.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Brown 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.

Hamblen Township · Jackson Township · Town of Nashville · Van Buren Township · Washington Township

Answers from the rulebook for Brown County

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

Brown County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Erection, construction, alteration, or repair of buildings and structures in Brown County.

    • A building permit is not required for one-story detached accessory buildings used for lawn and garden tools, playhouses, and specified livestock, grain, hay, or poultry shelter when floor area does not exceed 120 square feet.
    • Other listed exemptions include retaining walls, fences, painting or similar interior finish work, certain re-roofing, siding, window and door replacement, gutters, painting, similar interior work, and replacement of existing gas or electric water heaters.
    • Separate plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may still be required for exempted items.

    maximum floor area for listed detached accessory-building exemption: <= 120 square feet (one-story detached accessory buildings used for listed purposes)

    “In Brown County, a person, firm, or corporation cannot erect, construct, alter, or repair any building or structure without first obtaining a building permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A property owner who seeks to perform or arrange construction work in Brown County and wants to apply for the building permit.

    • An owner may apply for a permit, but the official bulletin does not exempt an owner from obtaining a permit for construction, alteration, or repair of a building or structure.
    • A permit application must be submitted for all projects.
    • Separate plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may be required for exempted items.
    • The listed building-permit exemptions are limited to one-story detached accessory buildings used for specified purposes at 120 square feet or less; retaining walls and fences; painting, papering and similar interior finish work; re-roofing of single-family dwellings and noncommercial detached accessory structures; siding, window and door replacement, gutters, painting and similar interior work; and replacement of existing gas or electric water heaters.
    • The Town of Nashville may have separate local requirements.

    owner may apply for building permit: true · permit fee for residences: 125 USD (plus $0.07 per square foot) · permit application requirement: all projects

    “In Brown County, a person, firm, or corporation cannot erect, construct, alter, or repair any building or structure without first obtaining a building permit. [...] A permit application must be submitted for all projects. [...] The owners, licensed contractor, or authorized representative can apply for a permit. [...] Residences $125 + $.07 per sq ft”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building-plan compliance for Brown County building permits.

    • Plans must show conformance with the adopted Indiana Building Code.
    • The source also says the Building Inspection Department reviews plans for compliance with local and state laws.
    “Plans and specifications must be drawn to scale on substantial paper and must indicate location, nature, and extent of the work proposed, and show in detail that it will conform to the adopted Indiana Building Code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building plans submitted for Brown County permits.
      “Plans and specifications must be drawn to scale on substantial paper and must indicate location, nature, and extent of the work proposed, and show in detail that it will conform to the adopted Indiana Building Code.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building permits for new residential construction and additions.

    • Required inspections are setback, trench and footing, rough-in, and final.
    • The permit holder must request inspections with at least 48 hours notice.
    • Failure to call for inspections may result in denial of an occupancy permit or a stop-work order.
    • Culverts, driveway, septic systems, and drainage improvements must be complete and working before final inspection.

    inspection notice: >= 48 hours (Same-day requests are accepted only at the Building Commissioner's discretion.)

    “The following describes the “FOUR” Inspections required by Brown County for all Building Permits issued. It is the responsibility of the permit holder to call for inspections at the proper time.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Building permits for residential buildings in Brown County.
      “The following describes the “FOUR” Inspections required by Brown County for all Building Permits issued. It is the responsibility of the permit holder to call for inspections at the proper time.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Residences and structures covered by Brown County building permits.

    • The final inspection requires the residence or building to comply with the Brown County Building Ordinance and applicable State and Federal Building Codes.
    • Culverts, driveway, septic systems, and drainage improvements must be completed and working before final inspection.
    • The Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the Brown County Building Commissioner.
    “No residences/structures shall not be occupied until a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued by the Building Commissioner of Brown County of Indiana.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Residences and structures subject to Brown County building-permit and inspection requirements.
      “A Certificate of Occupancy shall be issued upon inspection. The premises shall not be occupied until a certificate of occupancy is issued.”
    • Required — Residences and structures requiring a Brown County building permit.
      “The premises shall not be occupied until a certificate of occupancy is issued.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning administered under the Brown County Zoning Ordinance in the unincorporated area of Brown County.

    • The ordinance establishes zoning districts and regulates permitted and special-exception uses.
    • Municipal zoning may apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    “AN ORDINANCE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH ZONING OF UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF BROWN COUNTY INDIANA.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning in unincorporated areas of Brown County.
      “AN ORDINANCE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH ZONING OF UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF BROWN COUNTY INDIANA. Be it ordained by the Board of County commissioners of Brown County, Indiana, under the authority of Chapter 174, as amended, General Assembly of the State of Indiana:”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Brown County, including county zoning for unincorporated areas and separate municipal zoning.

    • The county ordinance applies to unincorporated areas.
    • The Planning Department links to a separate Town of Nashville Zoning Ordinance.
    • Property-specific zoning maps are not posted online and must be obtained from the Planning Department.
    “Click here to view the Town of Nashville Zoning Ordinance”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Brown County, including county zoning in unincorporated areas and separate municipal zoning in the Town of Nashville.
      “Brown County Zoning Ordinance 2024 [...] Click here to view the Town of Nashville Zoning Ordinance”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land development in unincorporated areas of Brown County, Indiana.
      “AN ORDINANCE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH ZONING OF UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF BROWN COUNTY INDIANA.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    The Brown County Zoning Ordinance's published district classifications and use tables; property-specific maps are not posted online.

    • The ordinance publishes FP, FR, R1, R2, LR, GB, AB, and I district classifications in its primary-use tables.
    • The Planning Department states that Brown County zoning maps are not posted online and property zoning must be obtained from the office.
    • The Town of Nashville has a separate zoning ordinance.
    “PRIMARY USE DISTRICTS IN WHICH PERMITTED FP FR R1 R2 LR GB AB I”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Mapped zoning districts in unincorporated Brown County.
      “The unincorporated areas of the county are divided into the following districts: 1. FLOOD PLAIN DISTRICT (FP) is designed to guide development in those areas identified as approximate 100 year flood boundaries by the Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps for Brown County, Indiana, by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or as Zone A on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps for Brown County, Indiana.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Residential dwellings in Brown County zoning districts FR, R1, R2, LR, GB, and AB.

    • The ordinance regulates minimum ground-floor size by dwelling type and number of stories.
    • For one-story single-family dwellings, the listed district minimums are FR 240, R1 900, R2 500, LR 500, GB 600, and AB 600 square feet.
    • For more-than-one-story single-family dwellings, the listed district minimums are FR 240, R1 800, R2 500, LR 500, GB 600, and AB 600 square feet.
    • Two-family and multi-family requirements are separately listed in the ordinance.

    one-story single-family minimum floor area by district: FR 240; R1 900; R2 500; LR 500; GB 600; AB 600 square feet · more-than-one-story single-family minimum floor area by district: FR 240; R1 800; R2 500; LR 500; GB 600; AB 600 square feet

    “No dwelling may be erected or changed so that its ground floor size, in square feet, is less than that prescribed by the following table:”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Residential lots in Brown County zoning districts FR, R1, R2, LR, GB, and AB.

    • Minimum lot area varies by dwelling type, zoning district, and whether community or individual sewage disposal is used.
    • Single-family minimum acreage per dwelling unit with community sewage is FR 2, R1 1, R2 1, LR .16, GB .16, AB .16.
    • Single-family minimum acreage per dwelling unit with individual sewage is FR 3, R1 3, R2 3, LR .50, GB .50, AB .50; the ordinance footnote states minor subdivided lots require 1.5 acres minimum and major subdivided lots require 1 acre minimum.
    • Minimum lot width is also regulated; a pre-existing single-family lot may qualify despite lacking minimum width or area if it met the ordinance's single-ownership or recorded-subdivision condition.

    single-family community-sewage minimum acreage by district: FR 2; R1 1; R2 1; LR 0.16; GB 0.16; AB 0.16 acres per dwelling unit · single-family individual-sewage minimum acreage by district: FR 3; R1 3; R2 3; LR 0.50; GB 0.50; AB 0.50 acres per dwelling unit (minor subdivided lots 1.5 acres minimum; major subdivided lots 1 acre minimum)

    “Single-Family with Individual Sewage Disposal System 3 3* 3* .50 .50 .50”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings and residential uses in unincorporated Brown County.

    • Front setback is measured from the road centerline.
    • For residence or business districts with 25% of block lots occupied, the block average may apply.
    • Rear and side setbacks vary by use and district; through lots have setbacks on each abutting street.

    State Road 46 front setback: 110 feet from centerline · State Roads 135 and 45 front setback: 75 feet from centerline · all other roads front setback: 50 feet from centerline

    “The minimum distance between the front line of a building and the centerline of: State Road 46 is 110 feet. State Road 135 and State Road 45 is 75 feet. All other roads, including private roads, is 50 feet.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings and uses in Brown County zoning districts and along identified roads.
      “State Road 46 is 110 feet. State Road 135 and State Road 45 is 75 feet. All other roads, including private roads, is 50 feet.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Residential building coverage in Brown County zoning districts FR, R1, R2, LR, GB, and AB.

    • Residential buildings may not exceed the district-specific percentage of total lot area.
    • The ordinance table lists FR 10%, R1 30%, R2 30%, LR 30%, GB 25%, and AB 25%.

    maximum residential lot coverage by district: FR 10%; R1 30%; R2 30%; LR 30%; GB 25%; AB 25% percent of total lot area

    “The residential buildings on a lot may not exceed in coverage the following percentages of total lot area:”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Structures in Brown County zoning districts.

    • Default limits are 25 feet in LR, 35 feet in FR/R1/R2/GB/AB, and 75 feet in I.
    • Special exceptions apply for clinics and hospitals.
    • Agricultural structures may be any height necessary for operation.
    • Additional district-specific exceptions apply to industrial, multifamily, business, and appurtenant structures.

    LR maximum height: 25 feet · FR/R1/R2/GB/AB maximum height: 35 feet · I maximum height: 75 feet

    “Except as otherwise provided by this section, no structure may be erected or changed so as to make its height greater than 25 feet if it is in an LR District, 35 feet if it is in an FR, R1, R2, GB, or AB District, or 75 feet if it is in an I District.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Structures in Brown County zoning districts.
      “Except as otherwise provided by this section, no structure may be erected or changed so as to make its height greater than 25 feet if it is in an LR District, 35 feet if it is in an FR, R1, R2, GB, or AB District, or 75 feet if it is in an I District.”
  • Living in an RVProhibited

    Long-term living in a camper or recreational vehicle on private property in unincorporated Brown County.

    • The Planning Department's statement addresses long-term living and permanent-dwelling use; it does not address short-term camping.
    “No, campers and RVs are not designed for long-term living and do not meet minimum square footage requirements for residences and do not meet building codes to be used as a permanent dwelling.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A small dwelling proposed for human occupancy in Brown County zoning districts outside the Town of Nashville, including a tiny home regulated as a dwelling.

    • The dwelling must satisfy the Brown County zoning district's minimum ground-floor area.
    • For one-story single-family dwellings, the minimums are 240 square feet in FR, 900 square feet in R1, 500 square feet in R2, 500 square feet in LR, 600 square feet in GB, and 600 square feet in AB.
    • For more-than-one-story single-family dwellings, the minimums are 240 square feet in FR, 800 square feet in R1, 500 square feet in R2, 500 square feet in LR, 600 square feet in GB, and 600 square feet in AB.
    • Two-family and multifamily dwellings have the separate minimums stated in the ordinance table.
    • The Town of Nashville has a separate zoning ordinance linked by the county Planning Department and is not covered by this county-zoning claim.
    • A building permit is separately required for construction under the Brown County building-permit bulletin.

    one-story single-family minimum floor area in FR: 240 square feet · one-story single-family minimum floor area in R1: 900 square feet · one-story single-family minimum floor area in R2: 500 square feet · one-story single-family minimum floor area in LR: 500 square feet · one-story single-family minimum floor area in GB: 600 square feet · one-story single-family minimum floor area in AB: 600 square feet

    “No dwelling may be erected or changed so that its ground floor size, in square feet, is less than that prescribed by the following table: DISTRICT Kind of Dwelling: FR R1 R2 LR GB AB A. One-Story Dwellings: 1. Single-Family 240 900 500 500 600 600 [...] B. More than One-Story Dwellings: 1. Single-Family 240 800 500 500 600 600”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — A tiny home proposed as an accessory dwelling unit in Brown County zoning districts outside the Town of Nashville.
      “In all Zoning Districts, one accessory dwelling unit may be established on a lot. The minimum total floor area shall be 400 square feet. The maximum total floor area shall be the lesser area of 1300 square feet or 75% of the primary building's total floor area. The accessory dwelling unit shall be served by a community sewage disposal system or by an individual sewage disposal system. [...] The accessory dwelling unit must remain accessory to the primary use and shall not be sold separately, or otherwise divided, from the primary use. Accessory dwelling units may not be used as tourist homes or for other short-term rental purposes. Accessory dwelling units may be rented for minimum rental periods or terms of 31 days.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    One accessory dwelling unit on a lot in any Brown County zoning district in the unincorporated area.

    • One unit per lot.
    • Minimum total floor area is 400 square feet.
    • Maximum total floor area is the lesser of 1,300 square feet or 75% of the primary building's total floor area.
    • It must use community sewage disposal or an appropriately sized compliant individual sewage system.
    • Chapter 4 height and setback standards apply.
    • It must remain accessory, cannot be sold or divided separately, cannot be used as a tourist home or other short-term rental, and may be rented only for terms of at least 31 days.

    minimum total floor area: >= 400 square feet · maximum total floor area: <= 1300 square feet (or 75% of primary building total floor area, whichever is less) · minimum rental term: >= 31 days

    “one accessory dwelling unit may be established on a lot”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory dwelling units in Brown County zoning districts.
      “In all Zoning Districts, one accessory dwelling unit may be established on a lot. The minimum total floor area shall be 400 square feet.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    On-site wastewater systems in Brown County.

    • The Brown County Health Department administers local septic permitting and inspections under state rule 410 IAC 6-8.3.
    • The page also refers to state and local code.
    “Septic Permits: Issued for repairs or new construction of on-site wastewater treatment systems. Will specify system requirements and location. Inspections: Inspect all septic system installations for compliance with rule 410 IAC 6-8.3.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — On-site wastewater treatment systems in Brown County.
      “Septic Permits: Issued for repairs or new construction of on-site wastewater treatment systems. Will specify system requirements and location.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Applicants seeking a Brown County septic permit for an on-site sewage system.

    • A registered soil scientist must provide a soil analysis to the health department.
    • The health department creates a specification sheet from the soil analysis.
    • After choosing an installer, the applicant must provide a completed, signed, and dated Application/Bedroom Affidavit; house plans; elevations; property deed; plot plan; and the installer's septic-system layout.
    • The checklist states permit costs of $150 for pipe/gravel and $250 for Presby or mound systems.
    • Permits are good for one year.

    pipe/gravel septic permit fee: 150 USD · Presby or mound septic permit fee: 250 USD · permit validity: 1 year

    “The cost of a permit is $150 for pipe/gravel and $250 for Presby or mound. Permits are good for one year.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New construction and repairs of on-site wastewater treatment systems in Brown County.
      “Septic Permits: Issued for repairs or new construction of on-site wastewater treatment systems. Will specify system requirements and location.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    All septic system installations in Brown County.

    • Inspections are for compliance with rule 410 IAC 6-8.3.
    • The Health Department also conducts inspections and investigations as required by state and local code.
    “Inspections: Inspect all septic system installations for compliance with rule 410 IAC 6-8.3. A diagram of the system is kept on file.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation of on-site septic systems in Brown County.
      “Inspections: Inspect all septic system installations for compliance with rule 410 IAC 6-8.3. A diagram of the system is kept on file.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivisions in Brown County outside the jurisdiction of the Town of Nashville.

    • All subdivisions must comply unless the Commission authorizes a modification under Section 4.
    • Primary and secondary plat approval, road acceptance where applicable, and recording with the County Recorder are required before land is considered subdivided.
    • The regulations supplement other laws and the more restrictive requirements apply.
    • The ordinance states its effective date as blank in the reproduced document, so no effective date is extracted.
    “These subdivision regulations shall apply to all subdivisions of land, as defined herein not within the jurisdiction of the Town of Nashville.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New residential or commercial construction accessing county-maintained public roads in Brown County.

    • A driveway permit is required for new residential or commercial construction on county, state, or Town of Nashville public-maintained streets or roads.
    • The permit must be obtained from the Brown County Highway Department, Indiana Department of Transportation, or Town of Nashville before applying for a building permit.
    • No driveway permit is required for privately maintained roads or existing driveways for residential additions or accessory structures.
    “For new residential or commercial construction, a driveway permit is required for County, State or the Town of Nashville public maintained streets or roads.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New residential or commercial construction accessing county, state, or Town of Nashville publicly maintained roads.
      “For new residential or commercial construction, a driveway permit is required for County, State or the Town of Nashville public maintained streets or roads. Obtain the driveway permit from the Brown County Highway Department., The Indiana Department of Transportation or the Town of Nashville before you apply for a building permit.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development activities wholly within, partially within, or in contact with an identified special flood hazard area.

    • The owner or authorized agent must apply before construction begins.
    • Applications must include a scaled plan showing the nature, location, dimensions, elevations, structures, fill, storage, drainage facilities, and related information.
    • The application must verify public sewer or approved on-site septic availability and approval for structures with restroom, kitchen, or other wastewater-disposal facilities.
    • Additional elevation, floodproofing, flood-opening, watercourse, DNR, FEMA, elevation-certificate, fill-report, or floodproofing-certificate requirements may apply.
    “Issue permits to develop in special flood hazard areas when the provisions of these regulations have been met or refuse to issue the same in the event of noncompliance.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals, tourist homes, and bed-and-breakfast uses in Brown County.

    • A special-exception application and Board of Zoning Appeals approval are required in Brown County.
    • County short-term rentals should be at least 250 feet from the nearest residence and 1,320 feet from the nearest short-term rental.
    • In the Town of Nashville, eligibility is determined by property zoning.
    • A short-term rental is a dwelling rented for 30 days or less; long-term rentals of 31 days or more do not require Planning Department special exceptions or permits.

    minimum distance from nearest residence: >= 250 feet (county short-term rentals) · minimum distance from nearest short-term rental: >= 1320 feet (county short-term rentals) · short-term rental duration: <= 30 days (long-term rentals are 31 days or more)

    “In Brown County, to operate a short-term rental, you must apply for a Special Exception in our office and your home must be approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Short-term rental use of accessory dwelling units in unincorporated Brown County.
      “minimum rental periods or terms of 31 days”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published Brown County building-permit fees.

    • The published schedule includes residential, duplex, addition/remodeling, accessory-structure, swimming-pool, electrical-upgrade, commercial, and other fees.
    • The fee schedule also lists a 3% credit-card payment fee on the Planning Department FAQ.

    residence permit fee: 125 + 0.07 per square foot USD · duplex permit fee: 250 + 0.07 per square foot USD · addition/remodeling fee: 65 + 0.07 per square foot USD · accessory structure fee: 50 USD · credit-card payment fee: 3 percent

    “Residences $125 + $.07 per sq ft Duplexes $250 + $.07 per sq ft Additions, Remodeling $65 + $.07 per sq ft Accessory Structures $50”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Brown County building permit applications.

    • Applications require project information, ownership documentation, site plan, zoning/floodplain compliance, health department approval where applicable, and driveway permits where applicable.
    • Two identical sets of residential plans are required.
    • The Building Inspection Department may require corrections and resubmission before issuance.

    residential plan sets: 2 sets · inspection notice: >= 48 hours (two business days)

    “A permit application must be submitted for all projects. The Brown County Building Department requires that every permit applicant supply specific information and certain declarations regarding the proposed work.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Brown County building-permit applications.
      “A permit application must be submitted for all projects. The Brown County Building Department requires that every permit applicant supply specific information and certain declarations regarding the proposed work.”

Indiana rules that apply here

  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Residential sanitation in Indiana where a dwelling is not connected, or cannot be connected, to a sanitary sewerage system.

    • The dwelling must be provided with a compliant residential on-site sewage system including a septic tank and a soil absorption system that has not failed.
    • A temporary sewage holding tank is subject to written Indiana Department of Health approval, with specified exceptions for failed systems, soil conditions after a construction permit, and certain district, utility, or municipal sewage plans.
    • A holding tank operated as a primary residential disposal method for a sewer connection plan is limited to not more than one year unless the period is extended upon documentation of satisfactory operation.
    • Drywells and cesspools are not allowed for construction or use as on-site sewage treatment in Indiana.

    holding-tank sewer-connection period: <= 1 year (may be extended upon documentation of satisfactory operation)

    “septic tank and a soil absorption system”
  • Well permitLimited

    Construction of residential water-supply wells and installation of well pumps in Indiana.

    • Indiana Department of Health standards state that several local health departments require a permit before residential water-supply well construction or well-pump installation.
    • The cited statewide source does not identify which local health departments require permits; local requirements must therefore be checked for the specific property.
    • Water-well drillers must be licensed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
    “Several local health departments now require that a permit be obtained before construction of a residential water supply well or installation of a well pump.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Residential dwellings and residential outbuildings governed by Indiana's residential on-site sewage systems rule when the existing residential on-site sewage system has failed.

    • A local health officer may require the direct sanitary-sewer connection; the rule does not make the connection automatic.
    • The sanitary sewer must be available within three hundred (300) feet of the affected property line.
    • The sanitary sewer must be available for connection at a construction cost and connection fee estimated not to exceed one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the estimated cost of installing an on-site sewage system serving the residence or residential outbuilding.
    • The rule is administered by local boards of health through their health officer and authorized representatives.
    • The cited rule identifies filing and readoption dates, but does not state an effective date in the cited passage.

    maximum sewer distance: <= 300 feet (Available from the affected property line.) · maximum connection cost and connection fee: <= 150 percent of estimated on-site sewage system installation cost (Applies when the residential on-site sewage system has failed.)

    “(b) In the event of a residential on-site sewage system failure the local health officer may require the residence and/or the residential outbuilding to make a direct connection to a sanitary sewer, if the sanitary sewer is available within three hundred (300) feet of the affected property line and is available for connection at a construction cost and connection fee estimated not to exceed one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the cost estimated for installing an on-site sewage system to serve the residence or residential outbuilding.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Indiana agricultural buildings or structures evaluated for the Class 1 structure agricultural-purpose exemption.

    • The structure must be used for an agricultural purpose, generally related to cultivation of soil, production of crops, or raising livestock.
    • The structure may not be used for another purpose such as a restaurant or event center.
    • The structure must be located on the land where the agricultural operation is located; this is the “farm rule.”
    • The structure may not be used for retail trade.
    • A stand used for retail sales of farm produce must not operate for more than 8 consecutive months in a calendar year.
    • If any stated condition fails, the agricultural exemption does not apply.

    maximum consecutive months for farm-produce retail stand: <= 8 months (Retail trade in a structure that is not a stand disqualifies the exemption regardless of duration.)

    “If no, the agricultural exemption applies, and the building or structure is not a Class 1 structure”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Buildings used only for an agricultural purpose on the land where they are located and not used for retail trade, for purposes of Indiana state Class 1 construction-design-release requirements.
      “Buildings used only for an agricultural purpose on the land where they are located and not used for retail trade are not Class 1 structures.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Occupancy of manufactured homes as principal residences in Indiana mobile home communities and related state health-regulated settings.

    • The state statute recognizes mobile homes and manufactured homes as suitable and necessary dwelling units in Indiana.
    • A mobile home community is generally land with at least five mobile homes or manufactured homes occupied as principal residences, subject to the statutory definition and included parcel configurations.
    • County and municipal authorities retain jurisdiction regarding zoning and building codes and ordinances pertaining to mobile home communities.
    • A mobile home community may not be operated without a license from the state department.
    • Occupied homes in a mobile home community must be connected to the community sewerage system at all times.
    • Each residential shelter in a mobile home community must have toilet, sink, and bath or shower facilities and be connected to water supply and sewer service before occupancy.
    • Mobile home community sites must meet and receive approval under local zoning requirements before construction begins.

    mobile homes or manufactured homes for statutory mobile home community definition: >= 5 homes (The statute also includes certain parcels with fewer units when specified shared-road, water, or sewer/septic conditions apply.) · mobile home community license duration: 4 years (The license expires at midnight on December 31.) · public water system distance threshold: > 2000 feet (A mobile home community is not required to use a public water system if the system is more than 2,000 feet away.)

    “Every shelter occupied as a residence in a mobile home community, whether mobile or permanent, shall be: 1. equipped with toilet, sink, and bath or shower facilities; and 2. Connected to the water supply and sewer service; before occupancy.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational vehicle occupancy at a regulated Indiana campground campsite, rather than residential occupancy on an individually deeded lot or other land outside the rule's campground definition.
      “No more than one (1) recreational vehicle or one (1) vacation mobile home”
    • Limited — Temporary campgrounds operated in Indiana.
      “not more than ten (10) consecutive days per event”
    • Limited — Occupancy of manufactured homes in Indiana, especially occupancy in mobile home communities subject to state health and sanitation standards and local zoning and building-code authority.
      “Mobile home community sites shall: 1. meet all requirements of the local zoning commission; and 2. be approved by the commission; before construction begins. (c) Every shelter occupied as a residence in a mobile home community, whether mobile or permanent, shall be: 1. equipped with toilet, sink, and bath or shower facilities; and 2. Connected to the water supply and sewer service; before occupancy.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Indiana counties' authority to adopt and enforce administrative building-code provisions, including building-permit or plan-review requirements, for residential construction in their jurisdiction, including Class 2 one- and two-dwelling-unit structures.

    • A county's substantive building and fire-safety provisions outside mere incorporation of Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission rules are described by IDHS as unenforceable and may not be adopted; modification of Commission standards may occur only through Commission rulemaking.
    • The State's county-or-municipality model ordinance excludes industrialized building systems and mobile structures certified under IC 22-15-4.
    • The model ordinance states that it is not applicable to regulated amusement devices, regulated boilers, regulated pressure vessels, or regulated lifting devices.
    • The model ordinance conditions permit issuance on a complete application, any applicable fee, conformity with applicable building and fire-safety laws, and no violation of other applicable ordinances or laws.
    “HEA 1575 did not eliminate the authority of local jurisdictions to adopt and enforce administrative provisions in building and fire safety ordinances”

Still unanswered

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

  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private property in Brown County.
  • Manufactured homes — Occupancy of manufactured homes in Brown County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Brown County, Indiana

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

Brown County scores 68/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

Do you need a building permit in Brown County, Indiana?

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Brown County is prohibited: Long-term living in a camper or recreational vehicle on private property in unincorporated Brown County. The Planning Department's statement addresses long-term living and permanent-dwelling use; it does not address short-term camping. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Brown County, Indiana?

Land in Brown County runs about $7,090 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Brown County?

Brown County gets about 47.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.5% of years.

How remote is Brown County?

A representative private-land location has about 20,710 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,767,078 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 Brown compares in Indiana

Compare side-by-side →See all 92 Indiana counties ranked →