Building permits, zoning and land rules in Mason County, Michigan
80Index Score / 100 #24 of 83 in Michigan
Mason County, Michigan requires building permits for most new construction; the issuing office depends on the parcel12. The county serves most jurisdictions, while Ludington and Pere Marquette Charter Township have their own building departments34. Zoning varies by township or city; septic and private-well permits throughout Mason County come from District Health Department No. 10567.
At a glance
Building permit
Required before most new construction; the county serves most jurisdictions, while Ludington and Pere Marquette Charter Township use their own departments134
Zoning
County zoning covers listed unincorporated townships; other townships and cities have local zoning, and Sheridan’s county coverage needs confirmation85910111213
Septic permits
DHD#10 permit required before construction, repair, alteration or extension; homeowners may self-install614
Septic soils
Only 3.9% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field15
Owner-builder
An owner building for personal use and occupancy may be exempt from builder licensing, but not from permits16
Private well
DHD#10 permit required for a new well or extensive changes; routine maintenance and minor repairs are excluded7
RV / tiny home living
Long-term RV occupancy remains unconfirmed; Michigan requires local zoning, building and health approvals for a tiny house17
Building, electrical, mechanical and plumbing permits and inspections for townships, villages and the City of Scottville not covered by their own department; floodplain development review
Administration and enforcement of the Mason County Zoning Ordinance in Amber, Branch, Eden, Riverton, Summit, Sherman, Meade, Victory, Custer and Logan Townships; zoning permits, the Airport Zoning Overlay and floodplain management
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Do you need a building permit in Mason County, Michigan?
Mason County, Michigan requires a written building-permit application before construction or a change in use or occupancy; ordinary repairs are exempt, subject to structural and safety limitations1. The county Building Department serves Amber, Branch, Custer, Eden, Free Soil, Grant, Hamlin, Logan, Meade, Riverton, Sheridan, Sherman, Summit and Victory Townships, the Villages of Custer, Fountain and Free Soil, and the City of Scottville2. Ludington issues its own building permits, and Pere Marquette Charter Township has its own building department; electrical, mechanical and plumbing permits go through Mason County43. In Scottville, city zoning compliance, a special-use permit or a variance must precede the county building permit18. Septic and private-well permits remain with District Health Department No. 10 throughout Mason County67. Residential construction follows the Michigan Residential Code, with the 2015 edition remaining in effect under a court order19. Mason County’s agricultural exemption requires exclusively agricultural use on agricultural land, excludes residential storage and still requires zoning approval3.
How do you reach the Mason County Building Department?
The Mason County Building Department, at 5300 US 10 in Ludington, is the contact for county-issued building permits20. Permits must be mailed or dropped off at 5300 W. US 10 with an original signature; faxes and PDFs are not accepted, and after processing, the county mails the permit to the applicant21. Residential building and deck applications need a structural cross-section plan and a hand-drawn floor plan21. Call the Building Department for the project fee; a mailed building-permit application carries a $25 administrative fee, but mailed electrical, mechanical and plumbing applications do not22. Request inspections at least 2 business days before they are needed, post the address clearly and provide site access23. An owner building for personal use and occupancy may be exempt from builder licensing, but not from permits16.
Does Mason County have zoning?
Mason County’s county-administered zoning applies to unincorporated land in Amber, Branch, Eden, Riverton, Summit, Sherman, Meade, Victory, Custer and Logan Townships8. The county zoning-permit page also includes Sheridan, but the department’s administration list omits Sheridan; ask Mason County Planning and Zoning to confirm the parcel’s authority524. Ludington administers its Unified Development Ordinance, and Scottville has city zoning; Free Soil, Grant and Hamlin Townships also have local zoning92510111213. Septic and private-well permits stay with District Health Department No. 10, including inside Ludington and Scottville672627. Airport-overlay height and land-use restrictions may apply within 10 miles of Mason County Airport, including parts of municipalities with local zoning24. We could not confirm county-district setbacks, lot sizes, dwelling sizes or lot coverage; request the parcel’s standards from Mason County Planning and Zoning28.
How do septic permits work in Mason County?
District Health Department No. 10 requires a permit before a Mason County sewage-disposal system is built, repaired, altered or extended, except when the Health Officer waives it for a limited minor repair6. Where public sewer is unavailable, construction cannot begin until DHD#10 issues that permit6. DHD#10 evaluates the site, designs the system, locates the well area and inspects final work; a homeowner may self-install, while other installers must be DHD#10-licensed14. Before cover or backfill, contact the sanitarian at least 24 hours ahead for final inspection29. Only 3.9% of Mason County soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field, so complete the site evaluation before committing to a house location15. A new private well or extensive change to an existing well also needs a DHD#10 permit; routine maintenance and minor repairs are excluded7.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Mason County?
We could not confirm long-term RV occupancy or temporary camping rules for private land in unincorporated Mason County; ask Mason County Planning and Zoning in the county-administered townships before relying on an RV for housing28. Michigan requires a tiny house, including one on wheels, to obtain local zoning approval, building, electrical and plumbing permits, plus health-department approval for well and septic arrangements17. Ask the applicable township or city zoning office about dwelling eligibility; Ludington and Scottville administer city zoning, while Free Soil, Grant and Hamlin have township zoning910111213. District Health Department No. 10 handles private-well and septic permits regardless of the zoning authority67.
What are the steps to building a home in Mason County?
Identify the building-permit and zoning authorities for the parcel; Mason County issues most building permits, while Ludington and Pere Marquette Charter Township issue their own3.
Obtain the applicable zoning approval and call for the project-specific fee3031.
Where public services are unavailable, obtain DHD#10 septic and private-well permits before construction, regardless of which office issues the building permit or zoning approval67.
If access is from a state trunkline, obtain the separate driveway permit through Michigan's Construction Permit System32.
Submit the building-permit application to the correct enforcing agency; for county-issued building permits, use an original signature and call Mason County for the applicable fee12122.
For county-issued building permits, request building inspections at least 2 business days ahead and address any floodplain requirements2333.
Arrange the septic final inspection before cover, then obtain occupancy approval after permitted work is complete2934.
What should you check before buying land in Mason County?
Only 3.9% of Mason County soils are free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so get a Health Department site evaluation before counting on a standard system15. The terrain is generally gentle, with 94.3% of the county at 15% slope or less, while 63.7% is wooded3536. For a subdivision plat, the Mason County Plat Board reviews documents before state submission; Road Commission, Drain Commissioner and Health Department approvals apply where public water and sewer will not serve the lots, and state review may apply beside highways, waterways or floodplains37. A driveway onto a state trunkline needs a separate driveway permit in addition to local building approval32. Property taxes average an effective 1.1%, with a median annual bill of $2,2033839.
Watch-outs
Sheridan appears on Mason County’s zoning-permit list but not its zoning-administration list; confirm the parcel’s zoning authority with Mason County Planning and Zoning before applying524.
Mason County floodplain construction may require a survey, professional design assistance and an NFIP Elevation Certificate at project completion; ask the Building Department before fixing the house location33.
DHD#10's Mason County office phone and address could not be confirmed; use DHD#10's Mason County location page to confirm current contact details before applying40.
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.
Mason County highlighted among the Michigan counties · colored by Index score
How Mason County scores
Seclusion64100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency70100% ev.
Admin Boringness4190% ev.
Durability86100% ev.
Property Autonomy77100% ev.
Carry Cost77100% 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 →
$272kTypical home
1.1%Property tax
$4,628Land / acre
34.8"Annual rain
1% of yrsSevere drought
0.4 / yr (+0.4)Mid-century 100°F days
11.3 daysMid-century dry spell
1.46" (+8.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.62×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,062Home insurance / yr
0.4% / yrInsurance growth
0.64%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
27,759People within 30 min
1,616,880People within 2 hr
29,413Radius comparison (15 mi)
58.9People / sq mi
22.1%Federal land
94.3%Land at 15% slope or less
3.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Mason County
Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.
Not yet researched: Amber Township · Branch Township · Custer Township · Village of Custer · Eden Township · Village of Fountain · Free Soil Township · Village of Free Soil · Grant Township · Hamlin Township · Logan Township · Meade Township · Pere Marquette Township · Riverton Township · Sheridan Township · Sherman Township · Summit Township · Victory Township
Answers from the rulebook for Mason County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Mason County rules
Building permitRequired
Building permits issued through the Mason County Building Department for Amber, Branch, Custer, Eden, Free Soil, Grant, Hamlin, Logan, Meade, Riverton, Sheridan, Sherman, Summit, and Victory Townships; Custer, Fountain, and Free Soil Villages; and the City of Scottville.
The Mason County Building Department states that the City of Ludington and Pere Marquette Charter Township use their own departments for building permits.
All electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits in Mason County are obtained through the Mason County Building Department.
Building permits are issued from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; on Fridays, permits are not issued after 4:00 p.m.
Permit applications require an original signature; faxes and PDFs are not accepted.
Building permits obtained by mail carry an additional $25 administrative fee; there is no $25 mail-in fee for electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permits.
An agricultural exemption may be requested only for buildings used exclusively for agricultural purposes on land used for agricultural purposes; no residential storage is allowed, the building official may inspect usage, additional permits or reconstruction/remodeling/removal may be required if the use is not exclusively agricultural, and a zoning permit remains required.
mail-in administrative fee: 25 USD (No $25 mail-in fee for electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permits.)
“Building Permits issued through the Mason County Building Department are required for the jurisdictions below. ALL Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing permits are obtained through the Mason County Building Department.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — Building permits issued by the Mason County Building Department for Amber, Branch, Custer, Eden, Free Soil, Grant, Hamlin, Logan, Meade, Riverton, Sheridan, Sherman, Summit, and Victory Townships; Custer, Fountain, and Free Soil Villages; and the City of Scottville.
“Building Permits issued through the Mason County Building Department are required for the jurisdictions below. ALL Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing permits are obtained through the Mason County Building Department. Townships | Amber, Branch, Custer, Eden, Free Soil, Grant, Hamlin, Logan, Meade, Riverton, Sheridan, Sherman, Summit, Victory Villages | Custer, Fountain, Free Soil City | Scottville For building permits in the CITY OF LUDINGTON or PERE MARQUETTE CHARTER TOWNSHIP, please contact the departments below:”
Required — Building permits issued by the Mason County Building Department for Amber, Branch, Custer, Eden, Free Soil, Grant, Hamlin, Logan, Meade, Riverton, Sheridan, Sherman, Summit, and Victory Townships; Custer, Fountain, and Free Soil Villages; and the City of Scottville.
“Building Permits issued through the Mason County Building Department are required for the jurisdictions below.”
InspectionsRequired
Building inspections for work administered by the Mason County Building Department.
Inspections should be requested at least 2 business days before the needed date.
A re-inspection fee may be charged when an inspection is requested before work is complete, when there is no site access, or when excessive field corrections require follow-up visits.
The address must be clearly posted, property lines clearly marked for additions or remodels, and site access provided; the gate should be open, a lock-box combination provided, the drive plowed, and the structure unlocked.
If an inspection fails, a correction notice is left on site and corrections are required before the permit can be approved.
Inspection cancellations require calling between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. on the inspection day or leaving a message at least 24 hours before the planned date.
minimum inspection-request lead time: >= 2 business days
“Inspections should be requested at least 2 business days prior to the date that the inspection is needed. A re-inspection fee may be charged if an inspection is requested before completion of work, there is no access to the site, or excessive field corrections require follow-up visits.”
County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)
The Mason County Zoning Ordinance is administered and enforced by Mason County Planning and Zoning in the ten named townships: Amber, Branch, Eden, Riverton, Summit, Sherman, Meade, Victory, Custer, and Logan.
The cited county page establishes the county ordinance only for the ten listed townships; it does not establish that the county ordinance applies throughout every incorporated municipality in Mason County.
The county department also administers Mason County Airport Zoning Overlay Zone and floodplain management related to FEMA-mapped hazard areas.
“The Mason County Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for administration and enforcement of the Mason County Zoning Ordinance in the following Townships: Amber, Branch, Eden, Riverton, Summit, Sherman, Meade, Victory, Custer, and Logan.”
Local zoningVaries (with conditions)
Local zoning across Mason County, aggregated across county-administered township areas, incorporated areas, and the Mason County Airport overlay area.
Mason County zoning permits are expressly required for projects in Amber, Branch, Custer, Meade, Victory, Sherman, Sheridan, Summit, Riverton, Eden, and Logan Townships.
The Mason County Airport Zoning Overlay Zone applies within a ten-mile radius of the Mason County Airport and includes parts of the City of Ludington, Pere Marquette Charter Township, Hamlin Township, Victory Township, Amber Township, Custer Township, Riverton Township, and Summit Township.
Airport overlay height restrictions and land-use restrictions may apply.
The county zoning ordinance page states amendments effective 6-29-2018.
airport overlay radius: 10 miles (Measured from the Mason County Airport.)
“The ordinance establishes regulations on land within a ten (10) mile radius of the Mason County Airport, including parts of the City of Ludington, Pere Marquette Charter Township, Hamlin, Victory, Amber, Custer, Riverton, and Summit Townships. Height restrictions AND land use restrictions may apply.”
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
Varies (with conditions) — Local zoning across Mason County, including county-administered township areas, incorporated municipalities with their own zoning systems, and the Mason County Airport zoning overlay.
“The Mason County Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for administration and enforcement of the Mason County Zoning Ordinance in the following Townships: Amber, Branch, Eden, Riverton, Summit, Sherman, Meade, Victory, Custer, and Logan.”
Varies (with conditions) — Local zoning across Mason County, aggregated from the county-administered zoning ordinance and the county airport zoning overlay.
“The ordinance establishes regulations on land within a ten (10) mile radius of the Mason County Airport, including parts of the City of Ludington”
Present (with conditions) — County-administered zoning in the townships expressly listed on the Mason County zoning department page.
“The Mason County Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for administration and enforcement of the Mason County Zoning Ordinance in the following Townships: Amber, Branch, Eden, Riverton, Summit, Sherman, Meade, Victory, Custer, and Logan.”
Present (with conditions) — Projects in Sheridan Township and the other townships listed on the Mason County Zoning Permit page.
“A Mason County Zoning Permit is required for projects in the Townships of Amber, Branch, Custer, Meade, Victory, Sherman, Sheridan, Summit, Riverton, Eden, and Logan (shown in white on the map below).”
Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)
Land within a ten-mile radius of the Mason County Airport, including parts of the City of Ludington, Pere Marquette Charter Township, Hamlin Township, Victory Township, Amber Township, Custer Township, Riverton Township, and Summit Township.
Height restrictions and land-use restrictions may apply under the Mason County Airport Zoning Overlay Zone.
The county page does not provide the numeric height limits; an airport-zoning permit or variance may be required depending on the site and proposal.
airport zoning radius: 10 miles
“The ordinance establishes regulations on land within a ten (10) mile radius of the Mason County Airport [...] Height restrictions AND land use restrictions may apply.”
Who permits septicLocal
Residential private-well and septic permitting, site evaluation, septic-system design, well-location approval, and final-work inspection for property in Mason County served by District Health Department #10.
The source identifies District Health Department #10 as issuing permits and performing the listed functions.
The source states that homeowners may install their own septic system; all other installers must be licensed by DHD#10.
“District Health Department #10 issues permits for private wells and septic systems. DHD#10 will evaluate the site, design the septic system, locate area for well installation, and inspect the final work.”
Septic permitLimited
Construction, repair, alteration, or extension of sewage disposal systems in Mason County, within the service area of District Health Department #10.
A permit issued by the DHD#10 Health Officer is required before construction, repair, alteration, or extension of a sewage disposal system.
The Health Officer may waive the permit requirement only in certain limited circumstances involving minor repairs or alterations to a small portion of an existing sewage disposal system.
A permit application must include the property owner's name, address, telephone number, actual or proposed property use, tax identification number, and owner or authorized representative signature.
The required application fee applies; the current DHD#10 fee schedule lists a residential septic permit at $330, a septic-tank-only permit at $250, a vacant-land evaluation at $330, and a commercial septic permit at $400.
The Health Officer may require engineering drawings, soil analysis, test borings, groundwater and flow elevations, or detailed plans.
Where public sewers are unavailable, a municipality, township, county, or other agency may not issue a building permit or allow construction to commence unless the Health Officer has issued the sewage-disposal permit.
A sewage-disposal permit expires two years after issuance; on written request before expiration, it may be extended once for one additional year upon payment of a renewal fee.
A permit may be transferred before expiration only if the new owner submits a written request, agrees in writing not to change the project scope without Health Officer approval, and both the original permit holder and new owner sign the request.
A final inspection is required after completion and before the system is covered or placed in operation, subject to the Health Officer's certification-waiver provision.
residential septic permit fee: 330 USD · sewage-disposal permit expiration: 2 years (May be extended once for one additional year upon timely written request and payment of a renewal fee.)
“No person shall construct, repair, alter or extend any sewage disposal system unless a permit issued by the Health Officer has been obtained. In certain limited circumstances involving only minor repairs or alterations to a small portion of an existing sewage disposal system, the requirement for a permit may be waived by the Health Officer.”
Septic inspectionRequired
Septic systems in Mason County served by District Health Department #10, immediately before cover or backfilling.
Twenty-four hours before covering or backfilling, the owner or contractor must contact the local sanitarian for a final inspection.
If the sanitarian cannot attend within 24 hours, the sanitarian may permit the owner or contractor to complete a Contractor Affidavit and then cover the system.
notice before cover/backfill: 24 hours (If the sanitarian cannot attend within 24 hours, permission may be given to complete a Contractor Affidavit and cover the system.)
“Twenty-four hours prior to cover/back filling a septic system the owner/contractor must contact the local sanitarian to complete a final inspection. If the sanitarian can not make it to the site within 24 hours then the sanitarian may give the owner/contractor permission to complete a “Contractor Affidavit” and then cover the system.”
Well permitLimited
Water-supply wells and existing water-well systems in Mason County, within the service area of District Health Department #10.
A valid Health Officer permit is required before installing or constructing a new water-supply system or making an extensive change to an existing water-well system.
Routine maintenance and minor changes or repairs are excluded, including replacing a pump, well cap, screen, pressure tank, piping, wiring, or treatment devices.
Extensive changes include replacing casing, removing casing, installing a liner, increasing well-casing depth, or installing a pitless adaptor.
If an approved public or municipal water supply is available, DHD#10 may not issue a private-water-supply permit unless approved by the local municipality.
Where an approved public or municipal water supply is unavailable, no building permit or construction may commence until an onsite water-supply construction permit is issued or written Health Officer approval allows continued use of an existing well.
The application must be made by the property owner or authorized representative, contain information required by the Health Officer, and include the appropriate fee; the current DHD#10 fee schedule lists a private well permit at $180.
A water-supply permit expires two years after issuance and may be extended once for one additional year on timely written request and payment of a renewal fee.
In an emergency involving undue hardship from lack of water while DHD#10 offices are closed, or when immediate construction of a replacement well is necessary during repair work, a registered well driller may begin extensive changes or construct a replacement without a permit, but must notify DHD#10, properly locate the well, contact the Health Officer on the next regular working day, and obtain the permit.
A new water supply is not approved until the required well-and-pump record and certified water-quality analyses, including coliform bacteria and any other parameter required by the Health Officer, are submitted.
private well permit fee: 180 USD · water-supply permit expiration: 2 years (May be extended once for one additional year upon timely written request and payment of a renewal fee.)
“No person shall install or construct a new water supply system or make an extensive change to an existing water well system unless a valid permit has been issued by the Health Officer authorizing such installation or construction. This provision shall not encompass the normal routine maintenance of a water supply system or when minor changes or repairs are made to the system (i.e. replacing pump, well cap, screen, pressure tank, piping, wiring or treatment devices).”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision plats submitted in Mason County, including proposed subdivisions in the county-administered townships.
The county plat board oversees the county-level procedure and reviews documents before sending them to the state.
Regardless of which unit exercises zoning power, county-level approval must be obtained from the county road commission and drain commissioner, and from the county health department if the proposed subdivision will not have public water and sewer facilities.
State transportation approval is necessary when the subdivision is adjacent to state highways or has streets intersecting a state highway.
Michigan environmental-agency approval is required when the subdivision abuts a lake, stream, or existing channel or lagoon providing access to a lake or stream, or is affected by a flood plain.
The county plat board does not make qualitative judgments about the proposed subdivision; those responsibilities belong to the individual reviewing agencies.
“At the county level [...] the documents must receive the approval of the county road commission, the drain commissioner and the county health department”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Regulated (with conditions) — Proposed subdivisions and plats in Mason County, including unincorporated areas; local zoning authority may be exercised by a township or other local unit.
“The subdivision control act of 1967, Act 288, PA 1967, MCL 560.102, or plat act, establishes a county plat board in each county.”
Building in a floodplainRequired
Development and construction in identified Mason County flood-hazard areas, including the 100-year floodplain.
Identified 100-year and 500-year flood-hazard areas include Lake Michigan, Bass Lake, Hamlin Lake, Lincoln Lake, Pere Marquette Lake, the Pere Marquette River, and the South Branch of the Pere Marquette River.
Non-mapped areas subject to Michigan Part 451 also include the Sable River and Lincoln River.
The County Building Department requires a survey to determine Base Flood Elevation and additional requirements for ASCE 24-05 compliance.
An NFIP Elevation Certificate is required at the end of the project.
Within the 100-year floodplain, a qualified design professional must assist with surveying, design and construction, and/or use of fill.
flood-hazard recurrence area: 100-year or 500-year · elevation certificate: required at project end (NFIP Elevation Certificate)
“A National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Elevation Certificate will be required at the end of the project.”
Permit feesVariable (with conditions)
Building permits issued by the Mason County Building Department for Amber, Branch, Custer, Eden, Free Soil, Grant, Hamlin, Logan, Meade, Riverton, Sheridan, Sherman, Summit, and Victory Townships; Custer, Fountain, and Free Soil Villages; and the City of Scottville. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits are obtained through the Mason County Building Department throughout Mason County, subject to the listed Ludington and Pere Marquette Charter Township contact exceptions.
The county directs applicants to call the Building Department for permit-fee information.
A building permit obtained by mail has an additional $25 administrative fee.
There is no $25 mail-in fee for electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permits.
The City of Ludington and Pere Marquette Charter Township have separate building departments for building permits.
mail building permit administrative fee: 25 USD (No $25 mail-in fee for electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permits.)
“Building permits may be obtained through the mail for an additional administrative fee of $25. [...] There is NO $25 mail in fee for Electrical, Mechanical, or Plumbing permits.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Variable (with conditions) — Mason County zoning permits for projects in Amber, Branch, Custer, Meade, Victory, Sherman, Sheridan, Summit, Riverton, Eden, and Logan Townships.
“The Mason County Zoning Permit can be used for routine permits (house, fence, garage, etc.) variances, site plan review, administrative site plan review, special land uses, signs, interpretations, and access management review. Please call for the appropriate fee.”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and zoning permits administered by Mason County in the listed townships, villages, and City of Scottville.
All permits must be mailed or dropped off at 5300 W. US 10, Ludington, Michigan 49431.
An original signature is required; faxes and PDFs are not accepted.
After-hours drop-off is available in the building department drop box.
Once received and processed, the permit is mailed to the applicant.
A building and deck structural cross-section plan and hand-drawn floor plan are required for specified residential applications.
Building permits are not issued after 4:00 p.m. on Fridays.
City of Ludington and Pere Marquette Charter Township use their own building departments for building permits.
building permit mail administrative fee: 25 USD (No $25 fee for electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permits)
“All permits must be mailed or dropped off to 5300 W. US 10, Ludington, 49431. An original signature is required.”
A person erecting a residential structure or combination residential and commercial structure for the person's own use and occupancy on the person's property, for purposes of the Michigan residential-builder licensing requirement.
This is an exemption from the residential-builder licensing requirement, not an exemption from obtaining a building permit.
The state building-permit page separately states that a building permit application is required before construction and must be submitted to the appropriate enforcing agency.
The official FAQ also identifies a separate no-license exemption for one project where the aggregate contract price for labor, materials, and other items is less than $600, subject to anti-evasion conditions.
aggregate contract price for separate small-project exemption: < 600 USD (does not apply when construction is divided into smaller contracts to evade the law)
“a person who erects a residential structure or combination residential and commercial structure except for the person's own use and occupancy on the person's property.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Available (with conditions) — Michigan residential-builder licensing when an individual erects a residential structure or combination residential and commercial structure for the individual's own use and occupancy on the individual's property.
“or a person who erects a residential structure or combination residential and commercial structure except for the person's own use and occupancy on the person's property.”
Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
Construction, alteration, relocation, demolition, use, and occupancy of buildings and structures statewide in Michigan, including residential requirements administered under the Michigan Residential Code.
The current Michigan Building Code is the 2021 edition and is effective April 9, 2025.
The rule adopts the International Building Code by reference with Michigan amendments and exceptions.
The adopted rule excludes sections 104.2, 104.3, 104.8, 104.8.1, 104.10, 105.3, 105.3.1, 105.3.2, 105.6, 109.2 to 109.6, 111.2, 111.3, 113.2, 113.3, 113.4, 114.1, 114.2, 114.3, 114.4, 115.1 to 115.4, 423.5, 423.5.1, 423.5.2, 903.2.8.4, 2902 to 2902.6, Table 2902.1, section 3005.5, the definition of agricultural building in section 202, and the definition of recreational vehicle in Appendix G.
The rule also incorporates IECC 2021, IEBC 2021, IMC 2021, IPC 2021, IPSDC 2021, and NFPA 70 2023 as listed in chapter 35.
Residential requirements are contained in the Michigan Residential Code.
The code may be purchased from the International Code Council through the bureau website at a cost of $144.00 as of the time of adoption of the amendatory rules.
building code edition: 2021 Michigan Building Code (Michigan amendments and listed exceptions apply) · effective date: 2025-04-09
“The provisions of the international building code, 2021 edition, including appendices F, G, and H, except for [...] govern the construction, alteration, relocation, demolition, use, and occupancy of buildings and structures, and, with exceptions noted, the international building code is adopted by reference in these rules.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Adopted (with conditions) — Michigan construction, including Mason County jurisdictions subject to the Michigan construction-code system.
“2015 Michigan Residential Code Current Code – Effective February 8, 2016”
Certificate of occupancyRequired
A new building or altered building subject to the Michigan construction code.
The building or altered building may not be used or occupied until the code official issues a Certificate of Occupancy.
The permit holder or authorized agent must submit a written request after project completion.
The request must include applicable building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, boiler, elevator, plan-review, and school fire-services project numbers.
The certificate cannot be issued until all fees are paid, permits are finaled, and permitted work is completed in accordance with the permit, code, and applicable laws and ordinances.
If an electrical, mechanical, plumbing, boiler, elevator, plan-review, or Fire Services project is not required, the request must state “not applicable.”
“A new building or a building that is altered shall not be used or occupied until a Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the code official.”
Zoning districtsPartial
Michigan's statutory zoning framework for counties, townships, cities, and villages; this does not identify the actual zoning districts adopted by each local government.
Actual zoning districts and district regulations are local and must be checked in the applicable county, township, city, or village ordinance.
The cited act's stated effective date is July 1, 2006.
“to provide for the establishment in counties, townships, cities, and villages of zoning districts;”
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Residential sanitary sewage disposal in Michigan without connection to a municipal sanitary sewer.
Sanitary sewage from toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines, and dishwashers must be directed to a municipal sanitary sewer or an onsite septic system.
An onsite septic system is subject to the EGLE-coordinated permitting and local-health-department permitting and inspection framework.
The source does not establish a statewide authorization for untreated discharge or arbitrary off-grid sanitation methods.
“All sanitary sewage [...] must be directed to municipal sanitary sewer or to an onsite septic system.”
Mandatory utility hookupConditional
Buildings and premises in Michigan that have plumbing fixtures or drainage piping.
Connection must be to a public sewer where available, or otherwise to an approved private sewage disposal system.
Plumbing work cannot begin until the appropriate enforcing agency issues a permit.
Local requirements may apply to water service and building sewer installation.
“Every building in which plumbing fixtures are installed [...] shall be connected to a public sewer, where available, or an approved private sewage disposal system.”
Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)
A building incidental to agricultural use of the land in Michigan, including Mason County.
The exemption applies only when the building is incidental to agricultural use of the land where it is located.
The building must not be used in the business of retail trade.
This is a building-permit exemption and does not establish exemption from zoning, land-division, septic, floodplain, or other applicable requirements.
“A building permit is not required for a building incidental to [...] agricultural purposes [...] if the building is not used in the business of retail trade.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Conditional — Building-permit exemption for shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes under Michigan Building Code Part 4.
“Exemptions from permit requirements of the code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of the code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for any of the following: [...] (x) Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.”
Driveway accessRequired
Commercial and residential driveways constructed or reconstructed within Michigan state highway right-of-way and access to state trunkline highways.
An individual permit application package must be submitted through CPS.
The package includes the Drainage Design Checklist for Accessing State Trunklines (Form 2484), traffic analysis if applicable, traffic impact study if applicable, and preliminary local planning commission review if appropriate.
A driveway constructed or reconstructed after August 6, 1969, is not lawful unless a permit has been obtained.
A commercial driveway permit application requires a bond; a residential driveway permit does not require a bond.
If accessing a state trunkline highway, the driveway permit is required in addition to the local governmental agency building permit.
If upgrading a driveway or only building a new driveway, a driveway permit may be all that is necessary.
Driveway permit effective date threshold: 1969-08-06 (Driveways constructed or reconstructed after this date require a permit to be lawful) · Commercial driveway bond: true (Residential driveway permit does not require a bond)
“Applicants must submit an individual permit application package through the Construction Permit System (CPS) with the following: Drainage Design Checklist For Accessing State Trunklines (Form 2484) Traffic Analysis, if applicable Traffic Impact Study, if applicable Preliminary review by the local planning commission, for compliance with local long-range development plans, if appropriate A driveway constructed or reconstructed after August 6, 1969, is not lawful unless a permit has been obtained.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Commercial and residential driveway construction or reconstruction within Michigan state highway right-of-way, including applicable state-trunkline access in Mason County.
“A driveway constructed or reconstructed after August 6, 1969, is not lawful unless a permit has been obtained.”
Campground & park staysLimited
Tiny houses, including tiny houses built on wheels, proposed as resort cabins or similar occupancy in Michigan.
The source distinguishes tiny houses from recreational units and states they cannot be treated as recreational units even if built on wheels.
The tiny house must be built as a resort rather than a campground.
Local health department permitting for wells, septic tanks, and drainfields is required as applicable.
Local zoning, building, electrical, and plumbing permits and final approvals are required under local authorities.
The source does not establish statewide zoning permission or a statewide right to occupy a tiny house.
“Local zoning, building, electrical, plumbing permits and final approvals under local authorities.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — RV occupancy as part of a Michigan campground consisting of five or more recreational units used for temporary living quarters.
“requires a campground license when five or more recreational units (i.e., tents, campers, RVs) are placed on a parcel or tract of land”
Limited — Temporary camping in a Michigan temporary campground.
“A temporary campground license issued by the local health department (LHD) having jurisdiction is required prior to operating a temporary campground.”
Limited — Occupancy of RVs and other recreational units as temporary living quarters in a Michigan campground offering sites to the public or members of an organization, where 5 or more recreational units are involved.
“A campground owner shall ensure that a site is occupied by not more than 8 persons and by not more than 1 recreational unit.”
county building authorityGeneral
Michigan counties serving as building-code enforcing agencies for residential construction in unincorporated areas, subject to the Statewide Jurisdiction List and local/state jurisdiction assignments.
Before construction, a written building-permit application must be submitted to the appropriate enforcing agency.
A permit is also required when use or occupancy changes.
Ordinary repairs do not require a permit, but the stated structural, egress, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and public-health/safety limitations apply.
The Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code govern construction; county enforcement applies only where the Statewide Jurisdiction List designates county jurisdiction.
“If COUNTY is indicated, that unit of government receives code enforcement services from a county enforcing agency.”
Inside cities and towns in Mason County
Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.
Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
Building and property changes within Free Soil Township, Mason County, Michigan.
Zoning approval is required before any building, property changes, fence construction, property clearing, or large excavation.
Applications and fees may be mailed to Free Soil Township Zoning, 7808 N. Custer Rd, Free Soil, MI 49411.
Permit fees should be verified with the department before mailing.
“Zoning approval is needed BEFORE for any building, property changes, building a fence, property clearings, and large excavations.”
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
Present (with conditions) — Land and development within Grant Township, Mason County, Michigan.
“This ordinance shall be known as the Grant Township Zoning Ordinance.”
Present (with conditions) — Land-use and development regulation within Hamlin Township, Mason County, Michigan.
“Ordinance #45 – Zoning (Updated 2024-07-21)”
Present (with conditions) — Land within the City of Ludington, Mason County, Michigan.
“Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) (Zoning Ordinance)”
Present (with conditions) — Zoning within the incorporated City of Ludington, Mason County, Michigan.
“Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) (Zoning Ordinance)”
Set by your township or city, not the county
In Michigan, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Mason County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your township or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.
Minimum dwelling size
Minimum lot size
Setbacks
Lot coverage
Living in an RV
Camping on your land
Tiny homes
Manufactured homes
Accessory dwellings
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 Mason County, Michigan
Is Mason County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Mason County scores 80/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.
Do you need a building permit in Mason County, Michigan?
Mason County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by District Health Department No. 10 (DHD#10). 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 Mason County, Michigan?
Land in Mason County runs about $4,628 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Mason County?
Mason County gets about 34.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1% of years.
How remote is Mason County?
A representative private-land location has about 27,759 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,616,880 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.
