Bolthole Index

Todd County, Kentucky

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Todd County, Kentucky

69Index Score / 100
#28 of 120 in Kentucky

In Todd County, Kentucky, single-family building permits, building inspections, and certificates of occupancy are required only where a local ordinance requires them123. We could not confirm such an ordinance for unincorporated Todd County; ask Todd County Government before building4. Kentucky construction codes still apply, and Todd County Health Department handles septic permits and inspections countywide567.

At a glance

Single-family building permit
Depends on whether Todd County or the parcel's city has adopted a local inspection ordinance1
Building contact
Kentucky's Todd County contact sheet lists a state building inspector and a separate City of Guthrie local inspector8
County zoning
Unincorporated county zoning unconfirmed; Guthrie has city zoning, and Elkton requires approval for major developments4910
Septic permits
Todd County Health Department; site evaluation, permit, and inspection required6117
RV living
Private-land occupancy rules remain unconfirmed; ask Todd County government and the health department before relying on an RV residence12413
Tiny homes
No Todd County-specific occupancy or minimum-size rule was confirmed; the Kentucky Residential Code still applies to covered dwellings14
Owner-builder
General building exemption unconfirmed; an owner may personally plumb an occupied or personal-use home after applying and filing an affidavit15
Private well
No owner permit application or fee, but a Kentucky-certified driller must perform and document the work16

Who to call

Building permits

Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — Todd County contacts

Publishes the current state and local inspection contacts for work in Todd County

270-647-1345

bryan.wilkins@ky.gov

Septic permits

Todd County Health Department

Local contact for onsite sewage site evaluations, permits, and inspections in Todd County

270-265-2362

617 W Main St., P.O. Box 305, Elkton, KY 42220

Planning & zoning

Todd County Government

County government contact for confirming unincorporated-area ordinances and the appropriate local office

270-265-9966

202 East Washington Street, P.O. Box 355, Elkton, KY 42220

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

Off-grid gear

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Do you need a building permit in Todd County, Kentucky?

For a single-family dwelling in Todd County, Kentucky, a building permit, building inspections, and a certificate of occupancy are not mandatory unless required by local ordinance123. We could not confirm whether unincorporated Todd County has adopted such an ordinance; give Todd County Government the parcel address before work begins4. The Kentucky Residential Code governs covered homes, and the Kentucky Building Code governs commercial construction5. Where no local single-family inspection program exists, homes must still meet the residential code, with mechanical-system inspections through the state HVAC division and local electrical inspector5. Projects other than single-family dwellings in jurisdictions without a local inspection program must go to the Division of Building Codes Enforcement for review before construction starts1.

Who handles Todd County building permits and inspections?

Kentucky's Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction publishes the Todd County building-inspection contact sheet8. For an unincorporated parcel, ask Todd County Government whether a single-family inspection ordinance applies; for electrical inspection, the sheet directs applicants to the County Judge Executive's office or the city office where work will occur48. Todd County Health Department handles septic permits and inspections countywide6117.

No Todd County building-permit fee schedule was confirmed; applicable state and local building fees depend on jurisdiction and project17. Kentucky's residential plumbing permit fee is $50 plus $14 per listed fixture, appliance, opening, water heater, or qualifying separately metered service18. An owner doing personal-use home plumbing must apply before work, file an affidavit, personally perform code-compliant work, and meet the limit of one new-home homeowner permit per five-year period15. A plumbing farmstead exemption may apply on at least 10 acres outside municipal limits with bona fide agricultural or horticultural use and qualification and registration with the county PVA; ask the state plumbing office whether the property qualifies19.

Does Todd County have zoning?

We could not confirm countywide zoning for unincorporated Todd County; ask Todd County Government which land-use rules apply to the parcel4. Inside Guthrie, the city sets zoning through its own zoning districts9. Septic permits and inspections remain with Todd County Health Department throughout the county6117. Major developments in Elkton require development-plan approval before a building permit may be issued; that municipal rule does not govern unincorporated land10.

Residential subdivision lots in unincorporated Todd County without public sewer must be at least 100 feet wide and 25,000 square feet; on curved roads, width is measured at the building setback line, and the District Health Officer may require more area or frontage20. Final subdivision plats must show building setback lines or, outside zoning jurisdiction, restrictive covenants setting yard requirements, so obtain the recorded plat21. We could not confirm countywide minimum dwelling size, lot coverage, building height, accessory-dwelling, or manufactured-home placement rules; ask Todd County Government about the intended use4.

How do septic permits work in Todd County?

Todd County Health Department administers septic permits, site evaluations, and inspections throughout Todd County under Kentucky's statewide program613. First contact the city or county to determine whether sanitary sewer is available; where it is not, a private sewage system is required22. Submit a site-evaluation application to the health department, then submit the system design and onsite sewage construction-permit application if the site is approved23. A certified Kentucky installer must install the system unless a homeowner obtains a homeowner's septic permit to install the homeowner's own system24. Installation includes initial and final inspections2325. Only 37.1% of Todd County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make septic approval a purchase contingency26. Alternative private systems may be available by location, but the site evaluation, septic permit, installation, and inspection requirements still apply27.

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

We could not confirm a general rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV living, temporary camping, or tiny-home occupancy on private land in unincorporated Todd County; ask Todd County Government about the parcel's land-use jurisdiction and Todd County Health Department about approved wastewater arrangements413. A tiny home used as a covered dwelling must meet the Kentucky Residential Code5. Where sewer is unavailable, a private sewage system is required; alternative systems depend on location and remain subject to site evaluation, septic permitting, installation, and inspection requirements28. We could not confirm a county minimum dwelling size; obtain a parcel-specific answer from Todd County Government before buying for a tiny home4.

Building a home in Todd County: the steps, in order

  1. Give Todd County Government the parcel address; confirm whether it is unincorporated or inside a city and whether a local single-family building-permit and inspection ordinance applies41.
  1. If the parcel is inside a city, ask that city about zoning approval and its building-permit process; major developments in Elkton need development-plan approval before a building permit may be issued10.
  1. Use Kentucky's Todd County contact sheet to identify the building and electrical inspectors for the parcel298.
  1. Determine sewer availability, then apply to Todd County Health Department for a site evaluation and, if approved, the septic construction permit222313.
  1. Obtain the plumbing construction permit before covered plumbing work begins; an owner doing the work personally must apply first, file an affidavit, and follow the state plumbing code15.
  1. If the driveway enters a state highway, apply in writing to the District Engineer30.
  1. Obtain the state floodplain permit before construction in a floodplain, and ask about the separate local floodplain permit31.
  1. Complete the septic installation and inspections25.

What should you check before buying land in Todd County?

Start with septic suitability because only 37.1% of Todd County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field26. Check mapped floodplain status because Kentucky requires a state permit before construction, demolition, or renovation within a floodplain, and local governments may require another permit32. Confirm legal road access; a new farm or single-family driveway onto a state highway requires written application to the District Engineer30. A property owner does not need a permit application or fee to construct or abandon a private well, but a Kentucky-certified driller must perform the work and submit the required documentation16. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.6%, with a median annual bill near $8703334. Verify any recent land division against the recorded plat, because we could not confirm the county's subdivision approval procedure; platted residential lots without public sewer carry the 25,000-square-foot minimum noted above.20

Watch-outs

  • Todd County's state contact sheet identifies a local building inspector specifically for the City of Guthrie; confirm jurisdiction before treating that city contact as the inspector for an unincorporated parcel8.
  • A septic permit is not the last step: Todd County's process includes installation and final inspections25.
  • Elkton requires development-plan approval for major developments before a building permit may be issued, but countywide zoning remains unconfirmed10.
  • Kentucky requires a state permit before construction, demolition, or renovation within a floodplain, and a separate local permit may also be required32.

Sources

  1. KRS 198B.060 Local enforcement of Uniform State Building Code, quoted and re-checked
  2. 815 KAR 7:125 — Kentucky Residential Code, quoted and re-checked
  3. 815 KAR 7:125 — Kentucky Residential Code, quoted and re-checked
  4. Todd County Government (toddcounty.ky.gov)
  5. Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  6. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program, quoted and re-checked
  7. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program, quoted and re-checked
  8. Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — Todd County contacts (dhbc.ky.gov)
  9. Guthrie: Chapter 153: Zoning Code (Todd County), quoted and re-checked
  10. Development Plan Approval Guidelines — City of Elkton Zoning Ordinance Addendum, quoted and re-checked
  11. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program, quoted and re-checked
  12. KRS 511.110 — Unlawful camping (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Todd County Health Department (chfs.ky.gov)
  14. Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — Division of Building Code Enforcement, quoted and re-checked
  15. Frequently Asked Questions — Plumbing, quoted and re-checked
  16. Water Well Information for Home Owners - Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, quoted and re-checked
  17. 2018 KBC Plan Review Fee Worksheet and Section 121 Plan Review and Inspection Fees, quoted and re-checked
  18. 815 KAR 20:050 — Installation Permits, quoted and re-checked
  19. Frequently Asked Questions — Plumbing, quoted and re-checked
  20. Sec. 26.32. Lots, quoted and re-checked
  21. Sec. 26.81. Conformity to preliminary plat; recording of final plat data, quoted and re-checked
  22. Application & Permitting Process For Individual Home Sewage Systems, quoted and re-checked
  23. So, You Want to Build A House? Application & Permitting Process for Individual Home Sewage Systems, quoted and re-checked
  24. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program, quoted and re-checked
  25. Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program - Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, 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. So, You Want to Build A House? Application & Permitting Process for Individual Home Sewage Systems, quoted and re-checked
  28. Application & Permitting Process For Individual Home Sewage Systems, quoted and re-checked
  29. Todd County Building and Code Inspection Contacts, quoted and re-checked
  30. 603 KAR 1:020 Driveway approaches, entrances; construction and maintenance (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Find Your Flood Zone (Kentucky statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  32. Environmental Permitting in Kentucky, quoted and re-checked
  33. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

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 4 of its 6 neighbors, Todd County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleTodd CountyLogan CountyChristian CountyMuhlenberg CountySimpson CountyButler CountyTrigg County
Building permitLimitedLimitedRequiredLimitedRequiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNot publishedNoNoYesNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.Barren River District Health Dept.Barren River District Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Todd County in Kentucky

69
County map
Todd County highlighted among the Kentucky counties · colored by Index score

How Todd County scores

Seclusion50100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency72100% ev.
Admin Boringness8290% ev.
Durability55100% ev.
Property Autonomy33100% ev.
Carry Cost79100% 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 →

$222kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$6,606Land / acre
51.9"Annual rain
4.8% of yrsSevere drought
10.3 / yr (+9.4)Mid-century 100°F days
14.5 daysMid-century dry spell
2.36" (+7.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.68×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,530Home insurance / yr
0.9% / yrInsurance growth
0.51%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
19,564People within 30 min
3,165,504People within 2 hr
31,553Radius comparison (15 mi)
33.4People / sq mi
0.4%Federal land
81.1%Land at 15% slope or less
37.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
81,445 acWorkable land screen
31.5%Wooded land
45.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Todd 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: Elkton · Trenton

Answers from the rulebook for Todd County

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

Todd County rules

  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Residential lots in Todd County subdivisions that are not served by public sewer.

    • All residential lots not served by public sewer must be at least 100 feet wide.
    • On curved roads, the 100-foot width is measured at the building setback line.
    • Such lots must be no less than 25,000 square feet in area.
    • The District Health Officer may require greater area and/or frontage because of drainage, soil conditions, or other conditions causing potential health problems.
    • Where public sanitary sewer is reasonably accessible, sanitary sewers must be installed with connections to the public system.
    • Where lots cannot be served by extension of an existing public sanitary sewer, the subdivider must obtain approval of lot sizes and disposal fields and present a certified percolation test for each proposed lot.

    minimum lot width: >= 100 feet (Residential lots not served by public sewer; on curved roads measured at the building setback line.) · minimum lot area: >= 25000 square feet (Residential lots not served by public sewer.)

    “Lot dimensions shall conform to the requirements of this chapter, except that all residential lots not served by public sewer shall be at least 100 feet wide, (except upon curved roads where the 100 feet will be measured at the building setback line) and no less than 25,000 square feet in area. A greater area and/or frontage than specified above may be required for residential lots if, in the opinion of the District Health Officer, there are factors of drainage, soil conditions, or other conditions to cause potential health problems.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Final subdivision plats in Todd County, including areas outside zoning jurisdiction.

    • The final plat must include building setback lines, or, if outside zoning jurisdiction, restrictive covenants setting out other yard requirements.
    • The provision concerns required final-plat data and does not establish a universal countywide setback distance.
    “Building setback lines, or if outside zoning jurisdiction, restrictive covenants setting out other yard requirements.”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Onsite sewage disposal systems in Todd County.

    • The statewide program is administered through local health departments.
    • The official local-health-department directory identifies Todd County Health Department.
    “KRS 211.350 provides that no person, firm, or corporation shall construct, install, alter or cause to be constructed, installed, or altered any on-site sewage disposal system subject to administrative regulation by the cabinet without having first obtained an on-site sewage disposal permit from the local health department.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Local — Onsite sewage disposal administration in Todd County.
      “administered through local health departments”
    • Local — Onsite sewage disposal systems in Todd County.
      “The Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems Program is administered through local health departments and begins with the use of onsite evaluations to determine if site and soil conditions are suitable for onsite wastewater systems.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    A homeowner installing the homeowner's own onsite sewage system in Todd County.

    • A homeowner who installs the homeowner's own system must obtain a homeowner's permit through the local health department.
    • The system must be installed by a certified Kentucky onsite septic installer unless the homeowner's permit exception applies.
    “Permits to construct, install, or alter on-site sewage disposal systems may be issued to homeowners provided:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Onsite sewage systems in Todd County administered through the local health department.
      “KRS 211.350 provides that no person, firm, or corporation shall construct, install, alter or cause to be constructed, installed, or altered any on-site sewage disposal system subject to administrative regulation by the cabinet without having first obtained an on-site sewage disposal permit from the local health department.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Onsite sewage disposal system installation in Todd County.

    • The local health department performs site evaluations and inspections.
    • The brochure describes an initial installation inspection and a final system inspection.
    • A certified installer must install the system based on the site evaluation.
    “perform site evaluations and inspections in Kentucky.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Individual-home onsite sewage permit process in Todd County.

    • Contact the city or county to determine sanitary-sewer availability.
    • If sewer is unavailable, install a private sewage system.
    • Submit a site-evaluation application to the local health department.
    • For an approved site, submit the system design and OSDS construction-permit application to the local health department.
    • Installation must be by a certified installer and includes initial and final inspections.
    • The brochure also describes Division of Water review and KPDES permitting for certain home-treatment situations.

    KPDES application fee: 450 USD (The brochure lists this fee under the KPDES application requirements.)

    “Application Reviewed; if approved: OSDS Construction Permit issued”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    The county's official Local Resources index lists no planning or zoning office, consistent with an unzoned rural Kentucky county.

    Todd County Local Resources ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Kentucky rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Building permits for construction in Todd County under Kentucky building-code jurisdiction.

    • Permits are not mandatory for single-family residences unless the local government passes an ordinance requiring inspections of single-family residences.
    • Local governments issue permits for activities within their area of responsibility.
    • All construction projects except single-family dwellings in jurisdictions without a local building inspection program must be submitted to the Division of Building Codes Enforcement before construction begins.
    “permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be mandatory for single-family residences”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required (with conditions) — Single-family dwellings constructed in Kentucky under the Kentucky Residential Code.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An individual property owner performing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning work on property the individual owns and occupies.

    • The exemption applies to KRS 198B.650 to 198B.689, Kentucky's HVAC contractor provisions.
    • The owner must own and occupy the property.
    • For installation of an initial HVAC system, the owner must apply for a permit before beginning installation.
    • An exempt owner need not possess or show proof of an HVAC license to obtain the required HVAC permit.
    • Applying for the HVAC permit constitutes consent to inspection by authorized Commonwealth and relevant local-government inspectors.
    • No HVAC permit is required for installation on a manufactured home by a licensed manufactured-home retailer or manufacturer, and no permit or inspection is required for window-unit air conditioners, space heaters, or HVAC systems in buildings not designed for human occupancy.
    “KRS 198B.650 to 198B.689 shall not apply to: [...] (3) An individual owner of real property while practicing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning work on or within property owned and occupied by the individual;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Homeowner-performed plumbing, sewerage, or drainage work in a home occupied by the homeowner or constructed by the homeowner for personal residential use.
      “Permits to construct, install or alter plumbing, sewerage or drainage may be issued to homeowners who desire to install plumbing in homes actually occupied by them or in a home to be constructed by them for their own personal residential use, if all the following requirements are met:”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Buildings constructed statewide in Kentucky, including residential and nonresidential construction subject to the Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code.

    • The 2015 International Building Code is the mandatory state building code for buildings constructed in Kentucky, subject to Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code.
    • One-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses are governed by 815 KAR 7:125 and the 2015 International Residential Code with Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code.
    • Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy are not required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.
    • Residential occupancies that are not single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, or townhouses must comply with the 2015 International Building Code and the 2018 Kentucky Building Code.
    • Manufactured homes are governed by KRS 227.550 through 227.665.

    base building code: 2015 International Building Code (Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code supersede conflicting provisions) · residential code: 2015 International Residential Code; 2018 Kentucky Residential Code amendments (Applies to single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses under 815 KAR 7:125) · mandatory effective date: 2019-01-01

    “Building Code. The 2015 International Building shall be the mandatory state building code for all buildings constructed in Kentucky except that: (1) The Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Building Code shall supersede any conflicting provision in the 2015 International Building Code; (2) One (1) family dwellings, two (2) family dwellings, and townhouses shall be governed by 815 KAR 7:125; and (3) Manufactured homes shall be governed by KRS 227.550 through 227.665.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Kentucky residential construction, including Todd County single-family, two-family, and townhouse construction.
      “Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the 2015 International Residential Code for One (1) and Two (2) Family Dwellings (IRC) shall be the mandatory state residential building code for all single-family dwellings, two (2) family dwellings, and townhouses constructed in Kentucky, except that the Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code shall supersede any conflicting provision in the 2015 IRC.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building construction in Todd County subject to Kentucky building-code jurisdiction, including commercial buildings and residential construction covered by the Kentucky Building Code or Kentucky Residential Code.
      “adopted the 2018 Kentucky Building Code, Second Edition and the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code, Second Edition on August 3, 2019.”
    • Adopted — Kentucky buildings subject to the Kentucky Building Code and Kentucky Residential Code, including applicable construction in Todd County.
      “The Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction adopted the 2018 Kentucky Building Code, Second Edition and the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code, Second Edition on August 3, 2019.”
    • Adopted — Mandatory Kentucky residential building-code standards for single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and townhouses constructed statewide, including unincorporated areas.
      “Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the 2015 International Residential Code for One (1) and Two (2) Family Dwellings (IRC) shall be the mandatory state residential building code for all single-family dwellings, two (2) family dwellings, and townhouses constructed in Kentucky, except that the Kentucky amendments in the 2018 Kentucky Residential Code shall supersede any conflicting provision in the 2015 IRC.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Building inspection jurisdiction for construction in Kentucky, including Todd County.

    • Single-family homes are reviewed and inspected by a local county or city building official if such an inspection program exists.
    • Where a county or city lacks a single-family inspection program, no building inspections occur except mechanical-system inspections by the state HVAC division and the local county electrical inspector.
    • All construction projects except single-family dwellings in jurisdictions without a local building inspection program must be submitted to the state division for review and approval before construction starts.
    “if such an inspection program exists. [...] there will not be any building inspections except for the mechanical systems”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Building inspections for construction in Todd County under Kentucky building-code jurisdiction.
      “there will not be any building inspections except for the mechanical systems”
    • Limited — Building inspections for construction subject to Kentucky residential and building codes in Todd County.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
    • Not required (with conditions) — Single-family dwellings constructed in Kentucky under the Kentucky Residential Code.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Certificates of occupancy for construction subject to Kentucky residential and building codes in Todd County.

    • Certificates of occupancy are not required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.
    • Other residential occupancies must comply with the Kentucky Building Code and applicable building-code processes.
    “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Certificates of occupancy for construction in Todd County under Kentucky building-code jurisdiction.
      “shall not be mandatory for single-family residences”
    • Not required (with conditions) — Single-family dwellings constructed in Kentucky under the Kentucky Residential Code.
      “Permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be required for a single-family dwelling unless required by local ordinance.”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Kentucky's statewide statutory framework for zoning-district texts and maps adopted by local planning units; the statutes do not provide a statewide inventory of individual district names or boundaries.

    • Zoning is enacted by a city or county under KRS Chapter 100 rather than automatically imposed statewide.
    • The zoning text must list the types of zones that may be used and the regulations for each zone.
    • The zoning map must show the boundaries of the area to be zoned and the boundaries of each zone.
    • Before enactment, the planning commission must prepare the zoning text and map and hold at least one public hearing.
    • After the hearing, the planning commission submits the approved text and map with its recommendation to legislative bodies and fiscal courts for adoption; passage requires a majority of the entire legislative body or fiscal court.
    • Planning units may be independent city or county units, joint city-county units, or regional groups of counties and cities.
    • Joint city-county and regional planning-unit jurisdiction is coterminous with political boundaries; an independent city planning unit may exercise consent-based extraterritorial jurisdiction up to five miles for subdivision and other regulations, subject to statutory limits.
    • KRS 100.203 states an effective date of July 13, 2004; KRS 100.207 states an effective date of July 15, 1988; those dates are included as source-stated statutory effective dates, not as dates for any particular local zoning map.
    “Cities and counties may enact zoning regulations which shall contain: (1) A text, which shall list the types of zones which may be used,”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping or sleeping in the specified public and private pedestrian or vehicle-use areas statewide.

    • The person must knowingly enter or remain in a listed area with intent to sleep or camp.
    • The area must not have been designated for sleeping or camping, or the individual must lack authorization to sleep or camp there.
    • The listed areas include streets, sidewalks, areas under bridges or underpasses, paths, parks, cemeteries, and other areas designated for pedestrians or vehicles, including ingress or egress areas to businesses, homes, or public buildings.
    • The first offense is a violation; a second or subsequent offense, or a first offense where the person refuses to cease, is a Class B misdemeanor.
    • The section does not prohibit customary and temporary use of recreational camping areas, rest areas, or other properties specifically designated for resting or sleeping.
    • Temporary sleeping in a vehicle parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot is not prevented when sleeping and parking occur for less than twelve (12) hours.

    temporary vehicle sleeping period: < 12 hours (The vehicle must be parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot.)

    “A person is guilty of unlawful camping when he or she knowingly enters or remains on a public or private street, sidewalk, area under a bridge or underpass, path, park, cemetery, or other area designated for use by pedestrians or vehicles, including areas used for ingress or egress to businesses, homes, or public buildings, with the intent to sleep or camp in that area, when the area has not been designated for the purpose of sleeping or camping or the individual lacks authorization to sleep or camp in the area.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary camping locations for unsheltered homeless individuals designated by local governments under Kentucky law.
      “A local government may designate indoor or outdoor areas with defined boundaries in an area zoned for commercial or industrial use, separate from any area frequently used for public purposes, as a temporary camping location for unsheltered homeless individuals.”
    • Limited — Temporary parking of recreational vehicles on public or private property associated with specified publicly announced events.
      “Nothing in KRS 219.310 to 219.410 shall be construed to apply to the temporary parking of recreational vehicles on public or private property, for not more than thirty (30) days, associated with festivals, fairs, sporting events, yard sales, or other publicly announced events.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units on lots containing a single-family home in a county containing a consolidated local government, when a new lease is initiated after June 27, 2025 and the lot is in a traditional single-family home zone.

    • The owner may not lease or allow the accessory dwelling unit to be occupied unless the owner primarily resides in the single-family home, multifamily housing unit, or accessory dwelling unit on the lot.
    • The restriction applies only in a county containing a consolidated local government.
    • A traditional single-family home zone is a zone that, as of January 1, 2025, did not include multifamily homes as a permitted use.
    • The restriction does not apply to a lot containing only one single-family home and no accessory dwelling unit.
    • The statutory effective date is June 27, 2025.

    new lease applicability date: > 2025-06-27 (The statute applies to new leases initiated after June 27, 2025.)

    “In a county containing a consolidated local government, for new leases initiated after June 27, 2025, a property owner shall not lease or allow to be occupied any single-family home, multifamily housing unit, or accessory dwelling unit located on a lot that contains a single-family home and that is located in a traditional single-family home zone, unless the owner primarily resides in the single-family home or multifamily housing unit or an accessory dwelling unit on the lot.”
  • Off-grid sanitationProhibited

    Use of seepage pits, cesspools, or dry wells as onsite sewage disposal systems statewide in Kentucky, subject to the Section 13 exception.

    • The prohibition is subject to the exception provided in Section 13 of 902 KAR 10:085.
    • Section 13 permits limited repair or alteration of existing seepage-pit systems when municipal or public sewage treatment is unavailable and repair or alteration is required because of malfunction, damage, or upgrade.
    • A limited single-family vacant-lot exception applies to certain lots purchased on or before May 1, 1992, if bona fide construction began by December 25, 1992.
    “Except as provided in Section 13 of this administrative regulation, use of seepage pits, cesspools, or dry wells;”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Well permitNot required

    Construction or abandonment of a private water well by a property owner statewide in Kentucky.

    • Construction, modification, and abandonment must be performed by a Kentucky Certified Water Well Driller.
    • The certified driller must complete and submit required documentation within sixty days after completion.
    • The conclusion concerns owner permitting applications and fees; it does not eliminate the separate driller-certification requirement.

    well documentation submission deadline: 60 days after completion

    “there are no permitting applications or fees for constructing or abandoning a water well required of the property owner.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Buildings subject to the Kentucky State Plumbing Code.

    • A building must have an independent connection to either a public or private sewer or sewer system.
    • If a sewer is not available, the house drain must connect to an approved private sewage disposal system.
    • The cited rule does not establish a universal requirement to connect to public water service.
    “If a sewer is not available, the house drain from a building shall connect with an approved private sewage disposal system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agritourism buildings subject to the Kentucky Building Code.

    • Except as otherwise provided, an agritourism building must comply with the Kentucky Building Code.
    • The exemption applies to an agritourism building built prior to December 31, 2016.
    • The pre-December 31, 2016 building is exempt from seismic requirements.
    • If the building has a capacity of 400 persons or is 6,000 square feet or less, it does not require the services of a Kentucky-licensed architect.

    construction date threshold: < December 31, 2016 · building capacity threshold: <= 400 persons (The statute states "has a capacity of four hundred (400) persons or is six thousand (6,000) square feet or less.") · building area threshold: <= 6000 square feet (The statute states "has a capacity of four hundred (400) persons or is six thousand (6,000) square feet or less.")

    “An agritourism building built prior to December 31, 2016, shall be exempt from the following requirements within the Kentucky Building Code: (a) An agritourism building built prior to December 31, 2016, shall not be required to comply with the seismic requirements within the Kentucky Building Code; and (b) If an agritourism building has a capacity of four hundred (400) persons or is six thousand (6,000) square feet or less, an agritourism building built prior to December 31, 2016, shall not require the services of an architect licensed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Kentucky plumbing farmstead exemption potentially applicable to qualifying farm dwellings and farm buildings in Todd County.
      “To qualify for a farmstead exemption the following must be met. A farm dwelling together with other farm buildings and structures incident to the operation and maintenance of the farm situated on 10 acres or more of land which is located outside the corporate limits of a municipality.”
    • Conditional — Division of land for agricultural use under Kentucky subdivision law.
      “provided that a division of land for agricultural use and not involving a new street shall not be deemed a subdivision.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land within a Kentucky planning-unit jurisdiction.

    • All subdivision of land must receive planning-commission approval.
    • A person may not subdivide land before securing approval of a planning-commission plat.
    • A subdivision plat may not be recorded by the county clerk until commission approval is entered on the plat.
    • The statute's agricultural-use exception is addressed separately in KRS 100.111(22).
    “All subdivision of land shall receive commission approval. No person or his agent shall subdivide any land before securing the approval of the planning commission of a plat designating the areas to be subdivided, and no plat of a subdivision of land within the planning unit jurisdiction shall be recorded by the county clerk until the plat has been approved by the commission and the approval entered thereon in writing by the chairman, secretary, or other duly authorized officer of the commission.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New or additional private farm or single-family dwelling driveway approaches on Kentucky Department of Highways rights-of-way.

    • The owner or occupant must make formal written application to the District Engineer of the Department of Highways.
    • The applicant must furnish required drainage pipe, tile, or other drainage structure at the applicant's own expense.
    • The Department may participate up to $300 for specified construction work.
    • No indemnity bond or other security is required unless estimated construction cost within the right-of-way exceeds $300.
    • The District Engineer may approve or disapprove the application.

    department participation maximum: <= 300 USD (specified drainage, grading, and surfacing work within right-of-way limits)

    “The owner or occupant of property, who desires to construct new or additional private farm or single family dwelling driveway approaches, shall make formal application in writing, to the District Engineer of the Department of Highways.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New, additional, relocated, or modified driveway entrance approaches serving commercial property or property used for a purpose other than farming or a single-family dwelling.
      “The owner or occupant of property, used for commercial or any purpose other than farming or single family dwelling, who desires to construct new or additional driveway entrance approaches, to relocate, or make other changes in existing driveway entrance approaches thereto, shall make application for a permit to the District Engineer of the Department of Highways upon standard forms furnished by the Transportation Cabinet.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in an identified Kentucky floodplain, including development in mapped A and AE zones.

    • Both a state and local floodplain permit are required for development in an identified floodplain.
    • State and local permits are required for development in A and AE zones.
    • The Kentucky Division of Water issues general or individual floodplain permits.
    • General permits cover eligible activities that do not change the Base Flood Elevation and have minimal flood-risk potential.
    • Developments that do not meet general-permit eligibility or could change the Base Flood Elevation require an individual permit.
    • The source directs applicants to consult the local floodplain coordinator for local requirements.

    general permit nonsubstantial improvement threshold: < 50 percent of structure valuation (including labor)

    “Any development in an identified floodplain in Kentucky requires a state and a local floodplain permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, demolition, or renovation within a floodplain in Todd County.
      “requires a state floodplain permit before starting any construction, demolition, or renovation within a floodplain”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Building plan-review and inspection fees for projects in Todd County under state Kentucky Building Code jurisdiction, together with applicable local building-department fees.

    • State fees apply only where the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction has jurisdiction.
    • The Kentucky Building Code requires payment to the Department, if applicable, and to the local building department before a permit is issued.
    • Local governments adopt their own reasonable building-permit fee schedules.
    • State plan-review fees vary by occupancy type, project area, additions, changes of use, alterations, repairs, and specialized systems.
    • The state plan-review minimum is $285 for the cited categories.
    • The cited fee worksheet is marked REV. 05/20; that revision notation is not treated as an effective date.

    state plan review minimum: >= 285 USD (For the plan-review categories stated in Section 121.3.5 through 121.3.8.) · residential state plan review rate: 0.15 USD per square foot (Table 121.3.1; state-jurisdiction plan review.) · commercial state plan review rate: 0.15 USD per square foot (Business, day care, educational, industrial factories, mercantile, residential, and storage occupancies; other occupancy rates differ.)

    “OCCUPANCY TYPE COST PER SQ FOOT Assembly 16 cents Business 15 cents Day care centers 15 cents Educational 15 cents High hazard 16 cents”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Kentucky plumbing permits applicable to plumbing work in Todd County.
      “The base fee for each plumbing permit for residential one (1) and two (2) family units shall be fifty (50) dollars plus fourteen (14) dollars for each:”
    • Published (with conditions) — Kentucky state plumbing installation permits administered by the Division of Plumbing.
      “FEE CHANGE - Effective March 1, 2022, Plumbing installation permit fees will be as follows: Residential (One and Two Family) Permits: $50 base permit fee, $14 per opening fee Domestic Water Heater Only Permits: $50 Commercial Permits: $50 base permit fee; $20 per opening fee Medical Gas Piping Permits: $50 base permit fee; $20 per opening fee”
  • Campground & park staysTemporary only (with conditions)

    Sleeping temporarily in a recreational vehicle or other vehicle in a vehicle-based location covered by KRS 511.110.

    • The vehicle must be parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot.
    • Sleeping and parking at the location must occur for less than twelve (12) hours.
    • This provision does not establish permission for long-term or permanent RV occupancy on private land.
    • KRS 511.110 separately prohibits camping in specified areas when the area has not been designated for sleeping or camping or the person lacks authorization.

    maximum sleeping and parking period: < 12 hours

    “Nothing in this section shall prevent a person from sleeping temporarily in his or her vehicle parked lawfully on a public road, street, or parking lot, where the sleeping and parking of the vehicle at the location occur for a period of less than twelve (12) hours.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Kentucky counties' statutory authority to enact zoning regulations, including county-regulated areas outside incorporated municipalities as determined by the applicable planning-unit and political-boundary structure.

    • The statute expressly authorizes both cities and counties to enact zoning regulations.
    • A zoning regulation must contain text listing the types of zones and regulations applicable in each zone, uniform throughout the zone, and provisions for variances, conditional-use permits, and nonconforming uses.
    • Authorized subjects include land activities, structure dimensions and locations, open-space and distance requirements, density, special-interest districts, fringe areas, and activities or structures near thoroughfares, water bodies, public facilities, aircraft facilities, unique places, and floodplains.
    • Agricultural land must have no regulations except that setback lines may be required for streets and highways; floodway or floodplain buildings or structures may be fully regulated; mobile homes and other dwellings may be regulated; and uses under KRS 100.111(2)(c) may be regulated as conditional uses.
    • The applicable planning unit and political boundaries determine the area governed by a county zoning regulation.
    “Cities and counties may enact zoning regulations which shall contain:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Kentucky counties may adopt permanent land-use regulations, including zoning, through the applicable planning-unit process; this authority reaches county jurisdiction, including unincorporated areas, subject to the statutory planning prerequisites.
      “When all required elements of the comprehensive plan have been adopted in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, then the legislative bodies and fiscal courts within the planning unit may enact permanent land use regulations, including zoning and other kinds of growth management regulations”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Kentucky fiscal courts may adopt and enforce construction regulations and may require building permits for construction in the county, including residential construction in unincorporated areas.

    • The construction regulations must be adopted by county order or resolution.
    • The regulations operate pursuant to KRS 198B.060 and the Uniform State Building Code framework.
    • A county building inspector may administer the regulations.
    • No person may build, erect, construct, reconstruct, remodel, relocate, alter, or repair a building within the county without first obtaining a building permit from the building inspector when the county permit system applies.
    • Permit fees must be reasonable and may not exceed the cost of the service provided.
    • A person aggrieved by the building inspector's ruling, order, or decision may appeal under KRS 198B.070.

    permit fee ceiling: <= cost of the service provided

    “The fiscal court of any county shall have authority, by order or resolution, to adopt, and to enforce, regulations governing construction as defined by KRS 198B.010 pursuant to the provisions of KRS 198B.060.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Kentucky county authority, as a local government, to enforce the Uniform State Building Code and issue building permits within its jurisdiction, including unincorporated residential construction.
      “Each local government shall employ a building official or inspector and other code enforcement personnel as necessary, or shall contract for inspection and code enforcement services in accordance with subsections (8) and (11) of this section to enforce the Uniform State Building Code within the boundaries of its jurisdiction, except that permits, inspections, and certificates of occupancy shall not be mandatory for single-family residences unless a local government passes an ordinance requiring inspections of single-family residences.”

Inside cities and towns in Todd County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Major developments and development-plan approval within the City of Elkton, Todd County, Kentucky.

    • All major developments must receive Development Plan approval.
    • Preliminary Development Plan applicants must file six copies for Planning Commission approval and pay the required fee.
    • Final development plans must be approved before a building permit may be issued.
    • The source is a City of Elkton zoning ordinance addendum and does not establish rules for unincorporated Todd County or other municipalities.
    “DEVELOPMENT PLAN APPROVAL GUIDELINES Content and Format Standards City of Elkton Zoning Ordinance Addendum [...] All major developments shall receive Development Plan approval according to the procedure described in this Addendum.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum floor area or dwelling-size requirement for residential dwellings in unincorporated Todd County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage limits in Todd County.
  • Building height — Building-height limits in Todd County.
  • Living in an RV — Long-term or residential recreational-vehicle occupancy on private land in unincorporated Todd County.
  • Tiny homes — Residential occupancy of a tiny home in unincorporated Todd County.
2 more unanswered
  • Manufactured homes
  • Short-term rentals

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 Todd County, Kentucky

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

Todd County scores 69/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop.

Do you need a building permit in Todd County, Kentucky?

Todd County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Todd County Health Department. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Todd County, Kentucky?

Land in Todd County runs about $6,606 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Todd County?

Todd County gets about 51.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4.8% of years.

How remote is Todd County?

A representative private-land location has about 19,564 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,165,504 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 Todd compares in Kentucky

Compare side-by-side →See all 120 Kentucky counties ranked →