Bolthole Index

Presque Isle County, Michigan

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Presque Isle County, Michigan

76Index Score / 100
#38 of 83 in Michigan

Presque Isle County, Michigan requires building permits before new construction, including manufactured structures, and for covered alterations and remodeling1. The county Building & Zoning Department issues building permits countywide, while the county or municipality issues zoning approval according to the parcel's location23. District Health Department No. 4 handles septic and well permits where municipal utilities are unavailable, including properties in local zoning jurisdictions456.

At a glance

Building permit
Required before new construction, manufactured structures, and covered alterations or remodeling1
Building department
Presque Isle County Building & Zoning Department issues building permits countywide2
Zoning
County zoning covers many townships; several cities, villages, and townships have local jurisdiction7
Septic and wells
DHD4 permits them where municipal water or sewer service is unavailable46
RV living
Temporary use is limited on vacant county-zoned land; local jurisdictions may differ89
Tiny home
A permanent dwelling must meet the county district's minimum floor area; a unit on wheels has temporary-use limits1011
Owner-builder
A conditional pathway exists for work by a homeowner on the home they occupy or are about to occupy12
Driveway
A permit is required for a new or upgraded driveway13

Who to call

Building permits

Presque Isle County Building & Zoning Department

County building permits, county-administered zoning permits, plan review, payments, and inspection requests

989-734-2915

pibuild@picounty.org

106 E. Huron Avenue, Suite B, Rogers City, MI 49779

Online permits →

Septic permits

District Health Department No. 4, Rogers City Office

Septic and well permits for applicable Presque Isle County properties outside municipal utility service areas

(989) 734-4723

Webmaster@dhd4.org

106 E. Huron, Suite A, Rogers City, MI 49779

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 7, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Presque Isle County, Michigan?

Yes. Presque Isle County requires a building permit before new commercial or residential construction, including a manufactured structure brought to the site, and before covered alterations or remodeling1. Ordinary repairs may be exempt, but structural, egress, trade, and health-or-safety work is not an ordinary repair14. The county enforces the Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code as applicable1516. Permitted work receives applicable footing, foundation, rough-trade, framing, insulation, and final inspections17. A new building, or one altered to change its use, cannot be occupied until the building inspector issues the certificate of use and occupancy18. A homeowner may use the conditional owner-builder pathway for personal work on the home they occupy or are about to occupy, but still needs the building permit and must follow county codes and ordinances12.

Who issues Presque Isle County building permits, and how do you reach them?

The Presque Isle County Building & Zoning Department issues building permits throughout the county and reviews construction, repair, remodeling, addition, and relocation applications2. Reach the office at 989-734-2915 or pibuild@picounty.org, or visit 106 E. Huron Avenue, Suite B, Rogers City, MI 497792. Applications require ownership information, building sketches or plans, and applicable separate approvals; zoning approval and, where needed, a septic permit come before the building permit19. The online service accepts applications and documents, takes payments, and lets permit holders request building inspections20. Building-permit fees vary by permit type, and the county also publishes a soil-erosion fee schedule21. The county issues building permits countywide even where a city, village, or township handles zoning; DHD4 still handles septic and well permits where municipal utilities are unavailable274.

Does Presque Isle County have zoning?

Yes, but the correct zoning office depends on the parcel. Presque Isle County requires county zoning approval for covered construction and uses outside incorporated cities and villages, except in Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle townships22. Rogers City, Onaway, the Village of Posen, and those three townships use local zoning; the Village of Millersburg is currently not zoned7. In county-zoned areas, zoning approval precedes the building permit, and minimum lot area, setbacks, height, and minimum dwelling area depend on the district19232425. Minimum ground-floor area for a detached house ranges from 450 square feet in FR to 750 square feet in R-3, with ordinance exceptions10. Agricultural buildings remain subject to zoning permits; the ordinance's agricultural exemption applies only to its cited accessory-building section26.

How do septic and well permits work in Presque Isle County?

District Health Department No. 4 handles septic permits and well permits in Presque Isle County areas without municipal water or sewer service27628. A septic permit is required before construction, repair, or alteration of a sewage system, and septic approval must precede the county building permit for covered projects where public sewer is unavailable29. Contact the Rogers City office at (989) 734-4723 or visit 106 E. Huron, Suite A, Rogers City, MI 4977928. DHD4 must inspect a permitted sewage system after construction and before it is covered or used, although approved verification can replace the final inspection in some circumstances30. Only 4% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so make DHD4 review an early feasibility step31. DHD4 review also applies to land divisions involving onsite water or sewage, but the full subdivision-approval process must be confirmed separately32.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Presque Isle County?

In the county zoning jurisdiction, a tiny home used as a permanent dwelling must meet the applicable district's minimum ground-floor area, which ranges from 450 square feet in FR to 750 square feet in R-3; basements, utility rooms, breezeways, porches, and attached garages do not count10. A tiny home on wheels treated as an RV may be used on unlicensed vacant land for no more than 30 days in a 90-day period and no more than 90 days per calendar year, with compliant sanitation11. While a conforming home is being built, the owner may occupy a qualifying temporary dwelling for 12 months and seek one additional 12-month extension from the Zoning Administrator11. These county rules do not govern incorporated cities, villages, or the three excluded townships, so ask the local zoning office there; DHD4 remains the contact for septic and well permits where municipal utilities are unavailable34.

Building a home in Presque Isle County: the steps, in order

  1. Identify whether county or municipal zoning applies and confirm the district, proposed use, lot standards, setbacks, and required zoning approval33319.
  1. If municipal utilities are unavailable, contact DHD4 for a septic permit and well permit; septic approval must precede the building permit where applicable5628.
  1. Obtain a driveway permit from the Presque Isle County Road Commission for a new or upgraded driveway13.
  1. Submit ownership information, construction plans, and separate approvals with the building-permit application20.
  1. Schedule applicable building inspections and keep work accessible until approval17. Have DHD4 inspect the septic system before it is covered or used unless DHD4 accepts alternate verification30.
  1. Complete required work and approvals, including the well final where applicable, before requesting the certificate of use and occupancy18.

What should you check before buying land in Presque Isle County?

Start with zoning jurisdiction and the proposed use, because the county ordinance does not govern every municipality3. In county-zoned areas, verify the district's minimum lot area and setbacks; a legal older lot may qualify under nonconforming-lot provisions even when a new division would not2334. Test septic feasibility early: only 4% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field31. Confirm legal road access and budget for a driveway permit if access is new or upgraded13. The land is largely gentle and wooded, with 98.2% at slopes of 15% or less and 69.6% in forest cover, so walk the building envelope and price clearing3536. Complete county floodplain-development requirements could not be confirmed, so ask the Building & Zoning Department about flood review before committing to a low-lying or waterfront site.

Watch-outs

  • Do not assume the county zoning ordinance controls every parcel: several municipalities have local zoning jurisdiction, and the Village of Millersburg is currently not zoned7.
  • A tiny home on wheels used as an RV on vacant county-zoned land is capped at 30 days in a 90-day period and 90 days per calendar year unless the site is a licensed RV park or campground11.
  • The county inspection schedule and current application materials disagree on the reinspection fee, so confirm the current amount with Building & Zoning37.

Sources

  1. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  2. Presque Isle County Building & Zoning Department (presqueislecounty.org)
  3. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  4. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  5. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  6. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  7. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  8. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  9. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  10. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  12. Building & Zoning Permit Application Packet, quoted and re-checked
  13. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building & Zoning – Presque Isle County Michigan, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building & Zoning – Presque Isle County Michigan, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building Permit Information, quoted and re-checked
  17. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  18. Presque Isle County Inspection Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  19. Construction Permit Requirements in Presque Isle County, quoted and re-checked
  20. Building & Zoning – Presque Isle County Michigan, quoted and re-checked
  21. Building & Zoning – Presque Isle County Michigan, quoted and re-checked
  22. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  23. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  24. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  25. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  26. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  27. DHD No. 4 Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  28. District Health Department No. 4, Rogers City Office (dhd4.org)
  29. DHD No. 4 Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  30. District Health Department No. 4 Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  31. 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
  32. DHD No. 4 Sanitary Code, quoted and re-checked
  33. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  34. Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  35. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  37. 2022 Inspection Schedule, quoted and re-checked

Written October 7, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Presque Isle County has countywide zoning.

RulePresque Isle CountyCheboygan CountyMontmorency CountyAlpena CountyOtsego CountyEmmet CountyOscoda County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsDistrict Health Dept. No. 4District Health Dept. No. 4District Health Dept. No. 4District Health Dept. No. 4Health Dept. of Northwest MichiganHealth Dept. of Northwest MichiganDistrict Health Dept. No. 2

County locator

Presque Isle County in Michigan

76
County map
Presque Isle County highlighted among the Michigan counties · colored by Index score

How Presque Isle County scores

Seclusion74100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency55100% ev.
Admin Boringness4190% ev.
Durability77100% ev.
Property Autonomy77100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% 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 →

$223kTypical home
1%Property tax
$3,642Land / acre
31.3"Annual rain
1.3% of yrsSevere drought
0.8 / yr (+0.8)Mid-century 100°F days
10.6 daysMid-century dry spell
1.35" (+8.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.6×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$905Home insurance / yr
-0.2% / yrInsurance growth
1.13%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
29,174People within 30 min
279,174People within 2 hr
11,823Radius comparison (15 mi)
20.2People / sq mi
0.3%Federal land
98.2%Land at 15% slope or less
4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
15,634 acWorkable land screen
69.6%Wooded land
30.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
44°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Presque Isle 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.

Allis Township · Bearinger Township · Belknap Township · Bismarck Township · Case Township · Krakow Township · Metz Township · Village of Millersburg · Moltke Township · North Allis Township · Ocqueoc Township · Onaway · Posen Township · Village of Posen · Presque Isle Township · Pulawski Township · Rogers Township · Rogers City

Answers from the rulebook for Presque Isle County

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

Presque Isle County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, repairs, remodeling, additions, and relocation of structures handled by the county Building and Zoning Department.

    • A permit is not required for ordinary repairs.
    • Ordinary repairs do not include structural work, changes to required means of egress, or listed plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or other work affecting public health or general safety.
    • A permit is required when use or occupancy changes.
    “Before construction of a building or structure, an owner, or the owner's builder, architect, engineer, or agent, shall submit an application in writing to the appropriate enforcing agency for a building permit. A permit is also required when the use or occupancy of a structure or portion thereof is changed. A permit is not required for ordinary repairs.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New construction, manufactured structures brought to the site, alterations, remodeling, and listed electrical, plumbing, and mechanical improvements.
      “PERMITS ARE REQUIRED BEFORE WORK BEGINS on all new construction, commercial and residential, including manufactured structures (brought to the site).”
    • Required — New construction, manufactured structures brought to the site, alterations, remodeling, and listed electrical, plumbing, and mechanical improvements in Presque Isle County.
      “PERMITS ARE REQUIRED BEFORE WORK BEGINS on all new construction, commercial and residential, including manufactured structures (brought to the site).”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A homeowner applying for a county building permit for work on the homeowner's own home.

    • The application requires the homeowner to certify that the work will be done by the homeowner in the homeowner's own home, which is a conditional owner-builder pathway rather than an unrestricted exemption.
    • Work must comply with Presque Isle County building codes and ordinances.
    “I, the undersigned homeowner, certify that the work described on this permit shall be done by myself In my own home In which I am living or about to occupy, All work shall be done In accordance with the Presque Isle County Building Codes and Ordinances.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building-code enforcement administered by Presque Isle County Building and Zoning Department.

    • The county states that it uses the State Construction Code; plumbing and mechanical permits are issued by Michigan for townships, villages, and cities.
    “Presque Isle County uses the State Construction Code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted — Construction in Presque Isle County administered by the county Building and Zoning Department.
      “the Building and Zoning Department administers and enforces the State of Michigan Construction Code, Michigan Residential Code, Michigan Building Code”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Permitted construction and remodeling in Presque Isle County.

    • Footing, foundation, framing, rough trade, and final inspections are required as applicable by code.
    • Work may not be covered or backfilled before required inspection.
    • Inspections require 48-hour notice; re-inspections after corrections incur a $20 charge.

    inspection notice: 48 hours · re-inspection fee: 20 USD (after corrections)

    “At a minimum, the following inspections shall be required:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Permitted construction and remodeling work administered by the county building inspection system.
      “After issuing a building permit, the building inspector shall conduct such inspections from time to time during and upon completion of the work for which a permit has been issued.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    New buildings and buildings altered to change use group or use within the same use group.

    • A certificate of use and occupancy is required before use or occupancy.
    • Well finals are required before a certificate of occupancy can be issued.
    “A building or structure hereafter erected shall not be used or occupied, in whole or in part, until the certificate of use and occupancy is issued by the building inspector in accordance with Section 13 of the Act.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New buildings and buildings altered to change use group or use within the same use group.
      “shall not be used or occupied until the certificate of use and occupancy is issued by the building inspector”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning jurisdiction over lands and waters outside incorporated cities and villages, except Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships.

    • The ordinance does not apply inside incorporated cities and villages.
    • The ordinance excludes Allis Township, Krakow Township, and Presque Isle Township.
    • A zoning permit is required before covered construction, use, activity, or alteration may proceed.
    • The ordinance and zoning map were adopted April 27, 2007, published May 3 and May 4, 2007, and took effect June 15, 2007.
    “AN ORDINANCE enacted under Act 110, Public Acts of 2006, as amended, governing the lands and waters lying outside the limits of incorporated cities and villages within Presque Isle County, Michigan, except for Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning administered by Presque Isle County on lands outside incorporated cities and villages, except Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships.
      “AN ORDINANCE enacted under Act 110, Public Acts of 2006, as amended, governing the lands and waters lying outside the limits of incorporated cities and villages within Presque Isle County, Michigan, except for Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships”
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning on lands outside incorporated cities and villages, except Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships.
      “AN ORDINANCE enacted under Act 110, Public Acts of 2006, as amended, governing the lands and waters lying outside the limits of incorporated cities and villages within Presque Isle County, Michigan, except for Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate zoning status across Presque Isle County's townships, cities, and villages; the county ordinance applies only to specified unincorporated areas and excludes three townships, while incorporated municipalities and excluded townships may administer their own local rules.

    • This is an aggregate conclusion and does not mean Presque Isle County administers every local ordinance.
    • Presque Isle County consists of 14 townships, 2 cities, and 2 villages.
    • The county zoning ordinance governs lands outside incorporated cities and villages except Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships.
    • Municipal and township zoning rules must be checked separately for areas outside the county ordinance's jurisdiction.
    “governing the lands and waters lying outside the limits of incorporated cities and villages within Presque Isle County, Michigan, except for Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Presque Isle County municipalities and townships.
      “Cities of Rogers City and Onaway, Village of Posen, and Townships of Allis, Krakow and Presque Isle are under local zoning jurisdiction.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of county and municipal/township zoning jurisdictions within Presque Isle County.
      “Cities of Rogers City and Onaway, Village of Posen, and Townships of Allis, Krakow and Presque Isle are under local zoning jurisdiction. Village of Millersburg is currently not zoned.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning districts in areas governed by the Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance.

    • The ordinance divides covered county lands into districts and establishes district boundaries.
    • Municipal and township zoning districts may apply in excluded local jurisdictions.
    “to divide the County into districts and establish the boundaries thereof; to provide for changes in the regulations, restrictions, and boundaries of the districts;”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Single-family detached dwellings and accessory dwelling units across the Article 14 zoning districts.

    • Article 14 footnote (a) excludes basements, utility rooms, breezeways, porches, and attached garages from minimum ground-floor area.
    • Footnote (b) changes side-yard setbacks for non-conforming and conforming lots.
    • Footnote (c) supplies separate minimum floor areas for accessory principal-use dwelling units: efficiency 400 square feet; one-bedroom 500 square feet; two-bedroom 700 square feet; three-bedroom 800 square feet; plus an additional eight (80) square feet for each bedroom above three.
    • The ordinance states the table is subject to exceptions elsewhere in the ordinance.

    R-1 minimum ground floor area: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings only) · R-2 minimum ground floor area: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings only) · R-3 minimum ground floor area: 750 square feet (single-family detached dwellings only) · FR minimum ground floor area: 450 square feet (single-family detached dwellings only) · AR minimum ground floor area: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings only) · B-1 minimum ground floor area: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings only) · B-2 minimum ground floor area: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings only) · M-1 minimum ground floor area: None (single-family detached dwellings only) · I-1 minimum ground floor area: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings only) · accessory efficiency dwelling: 400 square feet (footnote (c)) · accessory one-bedroom dwelling: 500 square feet (footnote (c)) · accessory two-bedroom dwelling: 700 square feet (footnote (c)) · accessory three-bedroom dwelling: 800 square feet (footnote (c)) · bedroom increment above three: per 80 square feet per bedroom (footnote (c))

    “Minimum Ground Floor Area per Dwelling (square feet)** (a) 600 600 750 450 600 600 600 None 600”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in the Article 14 zoning districts.

    • Article 14 is marked with an asterisk stating that exceptions elsewhere in the ordinance apply.
    • District-specific values are: R-1 0.5 acre; R-2 12,000 square feet; R-3 12,000 square feet; FR 0.5 acre; AR 10 acres for farm and 0.5 acre for residential; B-1 12,000 square feet; B-2 0.5 acre; M-1 1.0 acre; I-1 9.5 acres.

    R-1 minimum lot area: 0.5 acre · R-2 minimum lot area: 12000 square feet · R-3 minimum lot area: 12000 square feet · FR minimum lot area: 0.5 acre · AR farm minimum lot area: 10 acre · AR residential minimum lot area: 0.5 acre · B-1 minimum lot area: 12000 square feet · B-2 minimum lot area: 0.5 acre · M-1 minimum lot area: 1 acre · I-1 minimum lot area: 9.5 acre

    “Low Density 0.5A 100 3 45 30 (b) 15 Residential (R-1) Medium Density 12,000 s.f. 80 3 45 30 (b) 15 Residential (R-2)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Lots and parcels created after the ordinance effective date in county-zoned unincorporated areas.
      “In all districts, lots or parcels created after the effective date of this Ordinance shall meet the minimum lot area and lot width requirements for the district where located.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Buildings and uses governed by the Presque Isle County Zoning Ordinance.

    • The ordinance regulates yards, courts, and open spaces and contains district-specific standards and use-specific exceptions.
    “Minimum Minimum Maximum Building Minimum Yard Setback District Lot Area Lot Width Height Requirements {feet)”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Buildings and structures governed by the county zoning ordinance.

    • The ordinance regulates building height and bulk; agricultural buildings and structures have no height limitation under the cited provision.
    “Unless provided elsewhere in this Ordinance, or a variance is granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals, no building shall be erected or altered to exceed the height limitations or occupy a greater percentage of lot area, or intrude upon the required yards”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Temporary living arrangements in recreational vehicles on county-zoned unincorporated land.

    • On vacant land not licensed as a recreational vehicle park or campground, use is limited to 30 days in a 90-day period and no more than 90 days per calendar year.
    • The RV must be self-contained or sanitary facilities meeting District Health Department requirements must be provided.
    • Additional removal or enclosed-storage rules apply in R-1, R-2, R-3, and parcels under 10 acres in AR and FR districts; construction of a permanent dwelling is an exception under Section 3.8.

    maximum use: <= 30 days in a 90-day period · annual maximum: <= 90 days per calendar year

    “No person shall use or permit the use of any recreational vehicle, as defined in this Ordinance, for temporary living arrangement on any vacant lot, parcel, field, or tract of land not specifically licensed as a recreational vehicle park or campground for more than thirty (30) days in a ninety (90) day period and no more than ninety (90) days per calendar year.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Permanent occupancy of a tiny home as a residential dwelling within the Presque Isle County zoning jurisdiction.

    • The county zoning ordinance applies only outside incorporated cities and villages and excludes Allis, Krakow, and Presque Isle Townships.
    • The home must satisfy the applicable zoning district's minimum ground-floor area for a single-family detached dwelling: 600 square feet in R-1, R-2, B-1, and B-2; 750 square feet in R-3; 450 square feet in FR; 600 square feet in AR; none specified in M-1; and 600 square feet in the I-1 district.
    • Ground-floor area excludes basements, utility rooms, breezeways, porches, and attached garages.
    • A zoning permit is required before a building, structure, use, activity, or condition subject to the ordinance is erected, altered, reconstructed, used, moved, permitted, or conducted.
    • The ordinance took effect June 15, 2007.

    minimum ground-floor area in R-1, R-2, B-1, B-2: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings) · minimum ground-floor area in R-3: 750 square feet (single-family detached dwellings) · minimum ground-floor area in FR: 450 square feet (single-family detached dwellings) · minimum ground-floor area in AR: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings) · minimum ground-floor area in I-1: 600 square feet (single-family detached dwellings) · zoning permit application lead time: >= 10 days (application must be filed before intended initiation of work)

    “Minimum Ground Floor Area per Dwelling (square feet)** (a) 600 600 750 450 600 600 600 None 600 [...] ** Applies to single-family detached dwellings only. For others see footnote (c).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy of a tiny home on wheels or similar unit treated as a recreational vehicle or temporary dwelling within the Presque Isle County zoning jurisdiction.
      “No person shall use or permit the use of any recreational vehicle, as defined in this Ordinance, for temporary living arrangement on any vacant lot, parcel, field, or tract of land not specifically licensed as a recreational vehicle park or campground for more than thirty (30) days in a ninety (90) day period and no more than ninety (90) days per calendar year.”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    On-site sewage disposal and related health regulation in Presque Isle County.

    • District Health Department No. 4 serves Presque Isle County and also serves Alpena, Cheboygan, and Montmorency Counties.
    • Municipalities may adopt more restrictive ordinances.
    • The code is supplemental to Michigan Department of Public Health rules and state public-health laws.
    “District Health Department No. 4 shall have jurisdiction throughout Alpena, Cheboygan, Montmorency, and Presque Isle County, including all cities, villages, and townships, in the administration and enforcement of this Code”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Septic and well permitting for applicable Presque Isle County properties in District Health Department No. 4 jurisdiction.
      “are secured through the District # 4 Health Department”
    • Local (with conditions) — Private sewage systems and wells in Presque Isle County areas not served by municipal water or sewers.
      “The Department comprised of the counties of Alpena, Cheboygan, Montmorency, and Presque Isle established in accordance with Section 2415 of the Michigan Public Health Code, Act 368, Public Acts of 1978, as amended.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New or replacement homes, bedroom additions, mobile homes, and other covered structures in areas without public sewers.

    • A sewage treatment system permit from the Health Officer is required before the building department may issue a building permit.
    • The DHD4 Code provides exceptions and denial grounds, including where an available public sanitary sewer exists.
    “Where public sewers are not available, no person shall obtain a permit from a municipal Construction Code Agency/Building Department for any structure or use that is new construction, an addition or an alteration of a habitable building proposing an increase in the number of sleeping rooms;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New or replacement homes, bedroom additions, and mobile homes in areas not serviced by municipal water or sewers.
      “Septic System approvals are needed before a building permit can be issued.”
    • Required — Construction, repair, or alteration of sewage disposal systems in Presque Isle County within DHD4 jurisdiction.
      “Permits Required - Construction, repair, or alteration of any sewage disposal system shall not begin until the owner or their authorized representative has made application to the Health Officer and has received a construction permit.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Permitted sewage disposal system construction in District Health Department No. 4 jurisdiction.

    • Inspection occurs after construction and before covering or placing the system in operation.
    • The final inspection may be waived in some circumstances if approved verification, including an installer affidavit and detailed site plan, is accepted.
    “An inspection by the Health Officer is required after completion of construction and before any portion of the system is covered or placed in operation.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid sewage disposal where public sewers are unavailable.

    • A Health Officer-issued sewage treatment system permit is required before the building permit for covered construction.
    • Public sewer availability may be a ground for denial of a sewage permit.
    “for any premise located on any land where public sewers are not available until the land is approved for a sewage treatment system and a permit has been issued by the Health Officer.”
  • Well permitRequired

    New or replacement wells and covered water-supply construction in District Health Department No. 4 jurisdiction.

    • The DHD4 Code provides an emergency exception allowing a registered well driller to begin without prior notification or permit when the stated emergency conditions exist, with next-working-day notification and permit obligations.
    “No person shall begin construction of a new water supply or make extensive changes to existing water supplies, without first obtaining a water supply construction permit from District Health Department No. 4.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New or replacement homes, bedroom additions, and mobile homes in areas not serviced by municipal water or sewers.
      “SEPTIC SYSTEM/WELL PERMITS for new and/or replacement homes, bedroom additions, and mobile homes”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural buildings and structures incidental to farming uses under the county zoning ordinance.

    • The exemption is from the cited accessory-building section only.
    • Agricultural buildings still require zoning permits under the county construction requirements document.
    • Farms are regulated by the Right to Farm Act.
    “Agricultural buildings and structures incidental to farming uses are exempt from the requirements of this section.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Creation of lots, parcels, and land divisions in county-zoned unincorporated areas.

    • New lots must meet district minimum lot area and width requirements.
    • The ordinance contains nonconforming-lot provisions for legal lots recorded before the ordinance effective date.
    • State platting and municipal requirements were not separately resolved in this research.

    minimum new land-division width: >= 25 percent of lot or parcel depth

    “In all districts, the width of any lot, parcel, or land division created after the effective date of this Ordinance shall not be less than twenty five percent (25%) of the lot or parcel depth.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Land divisions, subdivisions, and condominiums where on-site water supply or sewage disposal is involved.
      “The Land Division Act (Act 288, PA 1967) or the Condominium Act, (Act 59, PA 1978), and the rules of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (R560.401 to R560.428) shall be the basis for acceptance or rejection or proposed subdivision and condominium projects that are not served by public sewers and/or public water.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New driveways and upgrades to existing driveways in Presque Isle County.

    • Driveway permits are obtained through the Presque Isle County Road Commission.
    “DRIVEWAY PERMITS are required when installing a new driveway or upgrading an existing driveway.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit feesPublished

    County Building & Zoning services.

    • The county page links to a Commercial & Residential Building Permit Fees document and identifies a Soil Erosion Fee Schedule.
    • Exact amounts were not extracted from the opened page.
    “Fees Commercial & Residential Building Permit Fees Soil Erosion Fee Schedule”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County construction and zoning permit process.

    • Zoning approval is required before a building permit is issued.
    • Applications require ownership information, building sketches or plans, and applicable separate permits.
    • Septic approval precedes the building permit where applicable.
    “ZONING PERMITS are required before a Building Permit can be issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — County building and zoning permit applications and inspections.
      “you can now submit permit applications, upload required documents, make payments, and request inspections all in one place.”

Michigan rules that apply here

  • 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.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Alteration or occupation of the 100-year floodplain of a Michigan river, stream, or drain regulated under Part 31.

    • The Part 31 permit requirement applies to rivers, streams, or drains with a drainage area of 2 square miles or greater.
    • A Part 31 EGLE permit is not required for alterations within floodplains of the Great Lakes, inland lakes, or watercourses with drainage areas less than 2 square miles, although other NREPA reviews may still be necessary.
    • Construction and fill may be permitted in non-floodway portions if local ordinances and building standards are met and compensating excavation is provided equal to the volume of fill placed in the floodplain.
    • New residential construction is specifically prohibited in the floodway.
    • The minimum residential elevation standard is one foot above the 100-year flood elevation, and some communities or counties may impose a higher standard.

    Minimum drainage area for Part 31 floodplain authority: >= 2 square miles (Part 31 does not apply below this threshold) · Lowest-floor elevation: >= 1 foot above 100-year flood elevation (Some communities and counties may require a higher elevation)

    “The Floodplain Regulatory Authority deals with the floodplains of rivers, streams, or drains which have a drainage area that is 2 square miles or greater. A permit is not required from EGLE, under Part 31, for alterations within the floodplains of the Great Lakes, inland lakes, or watercourses which have a drainage area less than 2 square miles.”
  • 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.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In Michigan, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Presque Isle 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.

  • Lot coverage
  • Camping on your land
  • 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 Presque Isle County, Michigan

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

Presque Isle County scores 76/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

Do you need a building permit in Presque Isle County, Michigan?

Presque Isle County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by District Health Department No. 4 (DHD4). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Presque Isle County is limited to specific cases: Temporary living arrangements in recreational vehicles on county-zoned unincorporated land. On vacant land not licensed as a recreational vehicle park or campground, use is limited to 30 days in a 90-day period and no more than 90 days per calendar year. The RV must be self-contained or sanitary facilities meeting District Health Department requirements must be provided. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Presque Isle County, Michigan?

Land in Presque Isle County runs about $3,642 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Presque Isle County?

Presque Isle County gets about 31.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.3% of years.

How remote is Presque Isle County?

A representative private-land location has about 29,174 people within a 30-minute drive and 279,174 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 Presque Isle compares in Michigan

Compare side-by-side →See all 83 Michigan counties ranked →