Bolthole Index

Boone County, Missouri

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Boone County, Missouri

62Index Score / 100
#92 of 115 in Missouri

Unincorporated Boone County, Missouri requires building permits for new dwellings, garages, manufactured homes and other work that adds or changes a structure; cosmetic work is exempt1. Boone County Resource Management issues those permits, administers county zoning and issues septic permits for the whole county23. Inside cities such as Centralia, the city issues building permits and sets zoning45.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for covered construction in unincorporated Boone County; cosmetic work is exempt1
Zoning
County zoning applies in unincorporated areas; cities such as Centralia zone their own land65
Septic permit
Required for new or renovated on-site systems; Resource Management administers the program countywide73
Driveway permit
Required for a new driveway off a county-maintained road; MoDOT permit on state right-of-way89
Manufactured home
At least 650 square feet; placement and district rules also apply10
RV living
No general rule confirmed; flood-zone sites face a stay limit or manufactured-home standards11
Tiny home
No categorical occupancy rule confirmed; building and zoning review still applies12
Owner-builder
No exemption from county permits or inspections confirmed13

Who to call

Building permits

Boone County Resource Management

Building permits and inspections for areas outside Columbia city limits; Resource Management also administers county planning, zoning, floodplain review and on-site wastewater

(573) 886-4330

resmgt@boonemo.gov

Boone County Government Center, 801 E Walnut, Rm. 315, Columbia, MO 65201-7732

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 13, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Boone County, Missouri?

Yes. Unincorporated Boone County requires a building permit for work that adds or physically changes structures, including dwellings, garages, carports, sheds, pole barns, manufactured homes, additions, remodeling and regulated electrical, plumbing, roofing, gas and HVAC work; cosmetic work does not require one1. Boone County does not require a demolition permit, although controlled burning and asbestos removal may involve other agencies14. County applications receive land-use, floodplain and address review, followed by inspections during construction152.

County-issued permits are subject to the adopted 2015 International Codes16. A structure that passes code review receives a Certificate of Occupancy, and the county says processing takes three business days17. Missouri's farm-structure exemption is narrow: it limits county fire-protection ordinances and does not create a blanket exemption from Boone County zoning, building, floodplain or septic requirements18.

Who issues building permits in Boone County, and how do you reach them?

Boone County Resource Management is the building-permit and inspection office for areas outside Columbia city limits152. Its main number is (573) 886-4330, its email is resmgt@boonemo.gov, and its office is in the Boone County Government Center at 801 E Walnut, Rm. 315, Columbia, MO 65201-77322. The office listing above links to the county's online application portal2.

Inside Centralia, building permit applications go to the City Administrator instead4. For any other city or town, the county says that zoning and building-permit questions go to the city where the property lies6.

New-construction fees are based on square footage, while alteration and remodeling fees are based on estimated construction cost; wastewater and driveway fees may be added1920. The current schedule sets a $40 non-commercial minimum and a $70 commercial minimum, doubles the fee for construction started without a permit, and expires permits after 180 days of inactivity21. Credit-card payments add 2.35%, with a $1.55 minimum21.

Does Boone County have zoning?

Yes, in unincorporated areas. Boone County administers zoning there, but incorporated cities and towns administer their own zoning and land-use rules, and the county has no jurisdiction inside them1222. Centralia, for one, publishes its own zoning chapter5. Permitted uses, setbacks and building heights depend on the county zoning district232425.

Minimum lot area varies sharply by district: an A-1 lot requires 10 acres, an A-2 lot 2.5 acres, an A-R lot one-half acre, and an R-S or R-D single-family lot 7,000 square feet26. Divisions that leave lots or tracts under twenty acres trigger the county subdivision regulations27.

One accessory dwelling is allowed on a legally created parcel in the A-1, A-2, A-R and R-S districts, sharing ownership with the primary dwelling and capped at 75% of its size or 1,500 square feet, whichever is less28. A second county provision says an accessory dwelling needs a parcel of 20 acres or larger29. The two provisions conflict, so ask Resource Management which applies to your parcel before planning a second dwelling.

How do septic permits work in Boone County?

Boone County Resource Management administers on-site wastewater regulation and permitting countywide3. A permit is required for a new or renovated on-site sewage system, but a separate wastewater application is unnecessary when the owner applies simultaneously for a new-home building permit7. A county pre-site inspection takes place before construction or reconstruction, and the system must remain uncovered until final inspection30.

Only 1.3% of Boone County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make wastewater feasibility and system cost purchase conditions rather than assuming a standard field will work31. Missouri requires a construction permit for most on-site systems, although some single-family lots may qualify for an exemption that does not apply everywhere32. Resource Management is the office to determine the parcel-specific permit path in Boone County3.

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

We could not confirm a general Boone County rule allowing or prohibiting residential or long-term RV occupancy on private land, or a categorical occupancy rule for tiny homes. The one RV rule we found applies to flood zones: in unincorporated Boone County, an RV on a site in A, AO, AE or AH flood zones must either stay fewer than 180 consecutive days while fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the permitting, elevating and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes11. Ready for highway use means the RV is on its wheels or jacking system, attached only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions11. Travel trailer parks are a conditional use only in the REC Recreation and C-G General Commercial districts33. Ask Resource Management about the parcel's zoning district and flood zone before buying.

Manufactured homes have a clearer rule. A manufactured home used as a dwelling must contain at least 650 square feet and is allowed where single-family dwellings are permitted, subject to district yard, density, parking, tie-down, skirting and wastewater rules10. In a recorded subdivision it needs conditional-use approval, and a placement permit is required before the home is placed34. For a tiny home, ask Resource Management how the ordinary dwelling rules apply.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated, then identify its county zoning district and district-specific uses2223.
  2. Verify legal lot status, minimum lot area, setbacks, height limits, floodplain status and whether subdivision review applies2624253527.
  3. Submit the application and supporting site materials; new construction now requires an approved site and setback inspection before Boone County issues the building or on-site wastewater permit3637.
  4. Arrange the wastewater pre-site inspection and keep the system uncovered through final inspection30.
  5. Obtain a county driveway permit for a new driveway off a county-maintained road; a driveway on a state highway may involve MoDOT, and work in MoDOT right-of-way needs a state permit8389.
  6. Pay the calculated fees, complete construction inspections and obtain the Certificate of Occupancy after code compliance211517.

What should you check before buying land in Boone County?

Start with jurisdiction and zoning: county rules govern unincorporated land, while each incorporated city or town uses its own land-use system22. Check the district, minimum lot area, legal lot status, setbacks and flood map before deciding where a house, driveway or accessory building can sit26272435. Floodplain status matters too: building in the floodway is strictly prohibited, except for agricultural structures designed to let floodwater pass through, and floodplain-fringe structures must be elevated or floodproofed39. Confirm legal road access as well; a new driveway off a county-maintained road needs a county permit, which may also be needed to resurface a driveway or replace a culvert, while a driveway within state right-of-way needs MoDOT approval89.

Missouri lets landowners drill their own well or install their own pump without a state well permit, though contractors need one; we could not confirm any Boone County well rule, so ask Resource Management40. Treat wastewater feasibility as a purchase condition because only 1.3% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field31. Ask Resource Management about the pre-site inspection before assuming the homesite works30. Boone County is 46.4% wooded and 82.1% of its land has slopes of 15% or less, but parcel-level clearing, drainage and grading can differ sharply4142. The median property-tax bill is about $2,232 a year at an effective rate near 0.9%, useful context but not a parcel-specific quote4344.

Watch-outs

  • Boone County zoning and permit authority described here applies to unincorporated land; incorporated cities such as Centralia administer their own rules622.
  • A general long-term RV rule was not confirmed, but RVs in A, AO, AE and AH flood zones face a stay limit or manufactured-home standards; ask Resource Management about the parcel11.
  • Only 1.3% of Boone County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so verify wastewater feasibility early31.
  • Starting construction without a Boone County building permit doubles the permit fee, and a permit expires after 180 days of inactivity21.

Sources

  1. boonemo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  2. Boone County Resource Management (boonemo.gov)
  3. On-Site Wastewater Systems, quoted and re-checked
  4. Centralia: Article I: In General - City of Centralia, MO (Boone County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Centralia: Table of Contents - City of Centralia, MO (Boone County), quoted and re-checked
  6. Frequently Asked Questions | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  7. On-Site Wastewater Systems | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  8. Frequently Asked Questions | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  9. Permits | Missouri Department of Transportation (Missouri statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Boone County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. Zoning Ordinance for Boone County, Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  12. Regulations | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  13. (2026 county census)
  14. boonemo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Inspections | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building Inspections | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  17. Building Inspections | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  18. RSMo Section 64.003 — Farm buildings and farm structures (Missouri statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. boonemo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  20. boonemo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  21. boonemo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  22. Frequently Asked Questions | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  23. Boone County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  24. Boone County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  25. Boone County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  26. Boone County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  27. Regulations | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  28. Zoning Ordinance for Boone County, Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  29. Boone County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  30. On-Site Wastewater Systems | Resource Management, 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. OWTS Construction Permit Process (Missouri statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Zoning Ordinance for Boone County, Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  34. Boone County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  35. Floodplain, quoted and re-checked
  36. boonemo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  37. Forms & Fees | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  38. boonemo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  39. Floodplain | Resource Management, quoted and re-checked
  40. Water Wells - PUB2945 (Missouri statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  41. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  44. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 13, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 4 of the 5 neighbors with published rules, Boone County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleBoone CountyHoward CountyCallaway CountyMoniteau CountyCooper CountyCole CountyAudrain County
Building permitRequiredNot publishedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredRequiredNot required
County zoningYesNot publishedNoNot publishedNoYesNo
Septic permitsCounty Resource ManagementDHSSCounty Health Dept.MO DHSS Onsite Sewage ProgramDHSSCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Boone County in Missouri

62
County map
Boone County highlighted among the Missouri counties · colored by Index score

How Boone County scores

Seclusion41100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency61100% ev.
Admin Boringness4690% ev.
Durability65100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost73100% 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 →

$337kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$5,608Land / acre
42.1"Annual rain
9% of yrsSevere drought
12.4 / yr (+10.5)Mid-century 100°F days
16.6 daysMid-century dry spell
2.11" (+5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.82×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,929Home insurance / yr
1.9% / yrInsurance growth
1.18%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
118,849People within 30 min
1,492,640People within 2 hr
156,274Radius comparison (15 mi)
276.4People / sq mi
1.1%Federal land
82.1%Land at 15% slope or less
1.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
5,535 acWorkable land screen
46.4%Wooded land
45.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
54.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Boone County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Hallsville · Town of Harrisburg · Town of Hartsburg · Town of Huntsdale · Town of McBaine · Village of Pierpont · Rocheport

Answers from the rulebook for Boone County

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

Boone County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction that physically changes or adds structures, including new dwellings, garages, manufactured housing, remodeling, and regulated installations.

    • Cosmetic work does not require a building permit.
    • The FAQ states the County does not require a demolition permit.
    • Municipal permitting rules may apply inside incorporated cities.
    “A permit is required for any construction that physically changes or adds structures to your property or for work regulated by codes or resolutions”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction in unincorporated Boone County that physically changes or adds structures or is regulated by codes or resolutions.
      “A permit is required for any construction that physically changes or adds structures to your property or for work regulated by codes or resolutions, such as:”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building codes administered by Boone County outside Columbia city limits.

    • The inspections page states that Boone County adopted 2015 International Codes effective April 1, 2017; the cited excerpt also states that the county commission adopts regulations on Building Code Commission recommendations.
    “Boone County adopted 2015 International Codes which will be effective April 1, 2017. All permits issued on and after that date will be subject to the 2015 codes.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building inspections for structures outside Columbia city limits.

    • Inspections take place throughout the construction process.
    • The county inspections division applies outside Columbia city limits.
    “The Boone County Inspections Division is responsible for building inspections in Boone County, Missouri, outside the city limits of Columbia. If you are located inside the City of Columbia please contact their office.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Structures inspected under Boone County building-code administration.

    • Structures meeting the building code are issued a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The county states that temporary or certificate-of-occupancy processing takes three business days.
    • Columbia city limits are outside the county inspection division's scope.

    processing time: 3 business days

    “Structures that meet the building code are issued a Certificate of Occupancy. Please allow three business days for the Certificate to be processed and issued.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Boone County zoning regulations in unincorporated areas.

    • The cited county zoning ordinance applies to the county zoning districts and does not establish that incorporated municipalities use the county ordinance.
    “The unincorporated area of Boone County is hereby divided into the following districts:”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate conclusion for zoning across Boone County, including county unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.

    • The county administers zoning in unincorporated areas; incorporated cities and towns administer their own zoning.
    • Municipal rules may differ from county rules.
    “This means that if you want information about your zoning, about getting a building permit, or any other specific land use question, you must contact the city in which your property lies.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate county result: Boone County zoning applies in unincorporated areas, while incorporated cities and towns administer their own land-use rules.
      “When it comes to land use planning and building, Boone County does not have jurisdiction within the county's incorporated cities and towns.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning districts and their applicable regulations.

    • The zoning ordinance contains district-specific controls, including A-1, A-2, A-R, R-S, R-D, and R-M district entries.
    • The zoning viewer is an inventory map and users are directed to Resource Management for official interpretation.
    “The unincorporated area of Boone County is hereby divided into the following districts:”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Manufactured homes used as dwellings in unincorporated Boone County zoning districts where single-family dwellings are permitted.

    • The manufactured home must contain at least 650 square feet of floor space.
    • A manufactured home or mobile home is not permitted in a recorded subdivision except as a conditional use.
    • The unit must comply with the district's yard, density, and off-street parking requirements.
    • The space beneath the unit must be enclosed by a foundation or underskirted with durable material within 90 days of placement.
    • The unit must be tied down for 15 pounds per square foot wind loads within 30 days of placement and before occupancy, except when the ground is frozen.
    • Wastewater treatment meeting Missouri Department of Natural Resources or Boone County minimum standards is required before occupancy.
    • A placement permit under Section 15.D is required before placement.

    minimum floor space: >= 650 sq. ft.

    “A manufactured home containing a minimum of 650 sq. ft. of floor space shall be permitted in all Districts where Single Family Dwellings are permitted.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Minimum lot areas by county zoning district.

    • A-1: 10 acres; A-2: 2.5 acres; A-R: 1/2 acre; R-S: 7,000 square feet; R-D: 7,000 square feet; R-M: 7,000 square feet for single-family and two-family dwellings and 2,500 square feet for multiple dwellings.
    • There are no minimum area requirements in Recreation, Commercial, and Industrial Districts.
    • The ordinance permits certain recorded lots existing on December 27, 1973 to be used for a one-family dwelling if minimum yard requirements are met.
    • Existing buildings violating lot-area requirements may be remodeled or repaired but may not be reconstructed or structurally altered unless brought into conformity.

    A-1 single-family lot area: 10 acres · A-2 single-family lot area: 2 1/2 acres · A-R single-family lot area: 1/2 acre (21,780 square feet) · R-S single-family lot area: 7000 square feet · R-D single-family lot area: 7000 square feet · R-M multiple-dwelling lot area: 2500 square feet

    “A-1 10 acres* 10 acres* N.A. N.A. A-2 2 1/2 acres* 2 1/2 acres* N.A. N.A. A-R 1/2 acre* 1/2 acre* N.A. N.A. R-S 7,000 7,000 5,000 N.A. R-D 7,000 7,000 5,000 N.A R-M 7,000 7,000 5,000 2,500”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Required yards and setbacks under county zoning regulations.

    • Setbacks vary by zoning district and use.
    • The ordinance provides exceptions for certain projections and accessory structures, including a 25-foot front-street-line distance for specified accessory buildings and related uses.

    accessory building/front street line: >= 25 feet (specified accessory buildings and uses in a front yard)

    “In addition to the locations permitted by the above yard exceptions for accessory buildings, satellite dish antennae, and collectors for solar energy may also be located in a front yard but must be at least 25 feet from the front street line.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Building height under the applicable county zoning district regulations.

    • The ordinance requires conformity with the height regulations of the applicable zoning district.
    • Additional airport-related height restrictions may apply.
    “No building shall be erected, converted, enlarged, reconstructed or structurally altered except in conformity with the height and area regulations of the district in which the building is located.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles placed on sites within Boone County unincorporated areas that are in unnumbered or numbered A zones, AO, AE, or AH flood zones.

    • The recreational vehicle must either be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days and be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the ordinance's permitting, elevating, and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes.
    • A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use only when it is on its wheels or jacking system, attached to the site only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions.
    • The zoning regulations apply to all unincorporated lands within Boone County.
    • The ordinance was effective March 31, 2026.

    maximum site duration under first alternative: < 180 consecutive days (The alternative requiring manufactured-home permitting, elevating, and anchoring requirements may apply instead.)

    “Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, and be fully licensed and ready for highway use1; or”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational vehicles placed on sites within unnumbered or numbered A zones, AO, AE, or AH zones on the community's FIRM in unincorporated Boone County.
      “recreational vehicles placed on sites within [...] A zones, AO, AE, and AH zones [...] fewer than 180 consecutive days [...] or [...] Meet the [...] requirements for manufactured homes”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Travel trailer parks in the unincorporated Boone County REC Recreation and C-G General Commercial zoning districts.
      “(13) Rec Recreation District [...] Conditional Uses: [...] - Travel trailer park [...] (17) C-G General Commercial District [...] Conditional Uses: [...] - Travel trailer park”
    • Limited — Recreational vehicles placed on sites within all unnumbered and numbered A zones, AO, AE, and AH zones on Boone County's FIRM.
      “C. Jurisdictional Area. These regulations apply to all unincorporated lands within Boone County. [...] Require that recreational vehicles placed on sites within all unnumbered and numbered A zones, AO, AE, and AH zones on the community's FIRMeither: a. Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, and be fully licensed and ready for highway use1; or b. Meet the permitting, elevating, and the anchoring requirements for manufactured homes of this ordinance. 1 A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick-disconnect type utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured-home occupancy in unincorporated Boone County zoning districts.

    • Manufactured or mobile homes are permitted in districts where single-family dwellings are permitted.
    • A manufactured or mobile home in a recorded subdivision requires a conditional use.
    • The home must meet district yard, density and parking requirements.
    • The space beneath must be enclosed or skirted within 90 days.
    • The home must be tied down within 30 days and before occupancy, except when the ground is frozen.
    • Wastewater treatment must comply with Missouri Department of Natural Resources or Boone County standards before occupancy.
    • A placement permit is required before placement.
    • Single-wide units may not be joined into a double unit without a conditional use permit.

    minimum floor area: >= 650 square feet (Manufactured or mobile home)

    “A manufactured home containing a minimum of 650 sq. ft. of floor space shall be permitted in all Districts where Single Family Dwellings are permitted. No manufactured home or mobile home shall be permitted in a recorded subdivision except as a conditional use.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    One accessory dwelling on a legally created individual parcel in A-1, A-2, A-R, or R-S Districts.

    • Minimum separation is 10 feet unless attached by a common wall.
    • Size may not exceed 75% of the primary dwelling or 1,500 square feet, whichever is less.
    • One additional off-street parking space is required for an accessory dwelling with more than three bedrooms.
    • The accessory dwelling must meet the applicable Building Code, Zoning Regulations, and Code of Health Regulations.
    • Primary and accessory dwellings must be owned by the same entity.

    minimum separation: >= 10 ft (unless attached by a common wall) · maximum size: 75% of primary dwelling or 1,500 sq ft, whichever is less

    “A single accessory dwelling is allowed on legally created individual parcels in the A-1, A-2, A-R, and R-S Districts subject to the following:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Accessory dwellings on legally created individual parcels in Boone County zoning districts.
      “A single accessory dwelling is allowed on legally created individual parcels that are 20-acres or larger in size up to a maximum of two total dwelling units on said individual 20-acre or larger parcels.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    On-site wastewater regulation in Boone County.

    • Responsibility transferred from City of Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services to Boone County Resource Management effective June 28, 2022.
    • The page states that the standards are uniform within Missouri and are not unique to Boone County.
    “For several years, onsite wastewater regulations were enforced by City of Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services. Effective June 28, 2022, this responsibility has been transferred to Boone County Resource Management.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — On-site wastewater regulation and permitting in Boone County.
      “Effective June 28, 2022, this responsibility has been transferred to Boone County Resource Management.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    A new building using an on-site sewage system or renovation of an existing on-site sewage system.

    • A separate wastewater permit application is not needed when also applying for a building permit for a new home.
    “If so, you must apply for a permit. Note: If you are also applying for a building permit for a new home you do not need to complete a separate wastewater permit application.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Onsite wastewater systems in Boone County.

    • A pre-site inspection is conducted before construction or reconstruction.
    • No backfilling is allowed until final inspection.
    • Installers must request inspections in advance.
    “An on-site inspection will be conducted to determine site applicability prior to construction or reconstruction of a system. Contact Resource Management to schedule your pre-site inspection. All requested inspections will be scheduled for the next business day.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision regulation in unincorporated Boone County.

    • The county regulations page identifies current subdivision regulations re-adopted in March 2026.
    “Any division of land is subject to the Boone County Subdivision Regulations if the resulting lots or tracts contain less than twenty acres.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New driveways accessing county-maintained roads in unincorporated Boone County.

    • A permit may also be required to resurface an existing driveway or replace a culvert.
    • Driveways on state highways may involve the Missouri State Highway Department.
    “A driveway permit is required when you place a new driveway off a county maintained road. Permits may also be required when you re-surface an existing driveway or replace a culvert.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — A new driveway off a county-maintained road.
      “A driveway permit is required when you place a new driveway off a county maintained road. Permits may also be required when you re-surface an existing driveway or replace a culvert.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development and building permits in Boone County regulatory floodplain areas.

    • All building permit applications are checked against flood maps.
    • Floodplain-fringe structures may be built only if elevated or floodproofed.
    • Building in the floodway is strictly prohibited, except agricultural structures may be allowed if designed and built to allow floodwaters to pass through.
    • A floodplain development application is provided by the county.
    “All building permit applications are checked against the flood maps to determine the location of a proposed structure relative to the regulatory floodplain.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Structures proposed in or near the regulatory floodplain.
      “Structures proposed for the floodplain fringe area can be built provided that they are either elevated or flood proofed. There are very strict prohibitions against building in the floodway itself, however, agricultural structures are allowed provided that they can be designed and built such that flood waters are allowed to pass through the structure.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Boone County building permits, primarily in unincorporated areas, with published fee schedules and category-specific calculations.

    • The current building permit fee schedule is effective June 1, 2026.
    • New-construction fees are based on project square footage; alteration/remodel fees are based on estimated construction cost.
    • Additional wastewater and driveway permit fees may apply.
    • Credit-card payments add a 2.35% convenience fee with a $1.55 minimum.
    • The schedule lists a $40 minimum non-commercial permit and $70 minimum commercial permit.
    • Construction without a permit is charged double fee.
    • Permits expire after 180 days of inactivity.
    • For non-commercial structures, the schedule uses a 0.00222 multiplier; for commercial structures, a 0.003 multiplier, with ICC construction-cost data updated each August.

    minimum non-commercial permit: 40 USD · minimum commercial permit: 70 USD · credit-card convenience fee: 2.35 percent (minimum $1.55) · construction without permit fee multiplier: double fee · fee schedule effective date: 2026-06-01

    “Building Permit Fees Effective June 1, 2026”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — Boone County building and related permits.
      “Fees for new construction are based on the square footage of the project. Fees for alterations/remodels are based on the estimated cost of construction. Additional fees apply for a waste water permit or driveway permit if applicable.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Boone County building permit fees.
      “Fees for new construction are based on the square footage of the project. Fees for alterations/remodels are based on the estimated cost of construction. Additional fees apply for a waste water permit or driveway permit if applicable.”
  • Permit processPartial

    New-construction permit processing in unincorporated Boone County.

    • A site and setback inspection is required before issuance for new construction effective June 1, 2026.
    • The requirement does not apply to remodels or repairs unless the scope requires a new or relocated onsite wastewater system or the original building was constructed illegally.
    • No construction may begin until the inspection is approved and permits are issued.
    • After application acceptance, the applicant is notified when the inspection may be scheduled.

    site and setback inspection effective date: 2026-06-01

    “Effective June 1, 2026, a site and setback inspection must be completed before Boone County will issue either a building permit or an onsite wastewater permit for new construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Boone County building permit application process.
      “All new buildings require a site drawing to be submitted. If you are installing a new onsite wastewater system a soils report and complete site plan will also need to be submitted with the building permit application. Incomplete submissions will not be accepted.”

Missouri rules that apply here

  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid domestic wastewater treatment using onsite wastewater treatment systems where central sewer service is unavailable.

    • Onsite systems treat and dispose of domestic sewage on the property where generated.
    • A construction permit is generally required, including for residential property less than three acres, subject to county-specific exceptions.
    • Wastewater may not be discharged into a road ditch or onto the ground.
    • Local permitting authorities may impose additional requirements.

    residential lot threshold: < 3 acres (The exemption does not apply in some counties.)

    “Onsite wastewater treatment systems are sometimes referred to as "septic systems." These systems treat and dispose of domestic sewage on the property where it is generated.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Use of onsite wastewater treatment systems as off-grid sanitation where central sewer service is unavailable in Missouri.
      “In Missouri, where central sewer service is not available, homeowners and small business owners use various types of onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS).”
  • Well permitLimited

    Construction or alteration of a public well serving a Missouri public water system.

    • Public water systems must receive written approval from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Public Drinking Water Branch before constructing or altering a public well.
    • The requirement does not apply when the system meets the charitable-and-benevolent-organization exemptions in section 640.116, RSMo.
    • Anyone proposing to install a public well must contact the department’s regional office for a well-site survey.
    • The survey addresses minimum isolation or setback distances from known or potential contaminant sources, including septic tanks, sanitary sewer lines, and landfills.
    • Before applying for construction authorization, the public water system must obtain an estimated casing-depth letter from the Missouri Geological Survey Water Resources Center.
    • There is no fee for the well-site-survey and estimated-casing-depth-letter services.
    • Failure to obtain construction authorization may result in approval delays and possibly require the owner to properly plug the well and drill a new one according to 10 CSR 60-3.

    public water system threshold: at least 15 service connections or regularly serves an average of at least 25 individuals daily, at least 60 days per calendar year

    “Public water systems must receive written approval from the PDWB before constructing or altering a public well”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — A person or contractor conducting regulated work to drill, construct, repair, reconstruct, plug, or install pumps or pumping equipment in a water well, heat-pump well, monitoring well, or related well in Missouri.
      “A non-restricted permit is required to drill, construct, repair, reconstruct, plug, or install pumps or pumping equipment in a well.”
    • Limited — Construction or repair of water wells, installation or replacement of pumps, and associated plumbing and electrical work in Missouri.
      “A non-restricted water well installation permit is required to construct or repair a water well in Missouri.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Farm buildings and farm structures used for agricultural purposes under the county building and land-use restriction provisions of RSMo sections 64.800 to 64.905.

    • The exemption does not apply within incorporated portions of counties.
    • The exemption applies to raising crops, livestock, orchards, or forestry and to specified rice-farming or flood-irrigation impoundments.
    • For farm buildings or farm structures, the area must not be within the area shown on the flood hazard area map.
    • The statute preserves the validity of county ordinances or orders adopted before March 4, 1991.
    • Other laws and local requirements may still apply.

    rice-farming or flood-irrigation berm height: <= 18 inches (small berms placed around a field to hold water for growing rice or flood irrigation)

    “This section shall not apply to the erection, maintenance, repair, alteration or extension of farm buildings or farm structures used for such purposes in an area not within the area shown on the flood hazard area map.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Erection, maintenance, repair, alteration, or extension of farm buildings or farm structures as against county fire-protection or fire-prevention ordinances.
      “Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, no fire protection or fire prevention ordinance adopted by any county in this state shall be exercised so as to impose regulations or to require permits with respect to the erection, maintenance, repair, alteration, or extension of farm buildings or farm structures.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Erection, maintenance, repair, alteration, or extension of farm buildings or farm structures used for agricultural purposes under RSMo section 64.890, outside incorporated portions of counties and outside areas shown on flood hazard area maps.
      “This section shall not apply to the erection, maintenance, repair, alteration or extension of farm buildings or farm structures used for such purposes [...]”
    • Available (with conditions) — Farm buildings and farm structures statewide, with respect to county fire-protection and fire-prevention ordinances.
      “no fire protection or fire prevention ordinance adopted by any county in this state shall be exercised so as to impose regulations or to require permits [...]”
    • Available — Erection, maintenance, repair, alteration, or extension of farm buildings or farm structures with respect to county fire-protection or fire-prevention ordinances.
      “Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, no fire protection or fire prevention ordinance adopted by any county in this state shall be exercised so as to impose regulations or to require permits with respect to the erection, maintenance, repair, alteration, or extension of farm buildings or farm structures.”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

    Missouri county zoning authority over unincorporated land.

    • RSMo § 64.850 applies to counties of the first class without a charter and counties of the second, third, or fourth class.
    • RSMo § 64.620 applies to counties of the second or third class to which §§ 64.510–64.690 apply.
    • Adoption under §§ 64.510–64.690 requires approval by vote of the people under § 64.530.
    • The authority applies in unincorporated portions and not incorporated portions.
    • The regulations must be in accordance with a comprehensive plan.
    • Under § 64.090, the zoning power does not apply to raising crops, livestock, orchards, or forestry; seasonal or temporary rice-farming or flood-irrigation impoundments; specified farm structures outside mapped flood-hazard areas; or underground mining entered through shafts outside mapped flood-hazard areas.
    • Existing lawful uses and specified public-utility services are protected under the cited statutory schemes.
    “the county commission of any county of the first class not having a charter form of government, or of any county of the second, third or fourth class may, after approval by vote of the people as provided in section 64.845, regulate and restrict, by order of record, in the unincorporated portions of the county, the height, number of stories, and size of buildings, the percentage of lots that may be occupied, the size of yards, courts and other open spaces, the density of population, the location and use of buildings, structures and land for trade, industry, residence or other purposes.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • county building authorityLimited

    County authority to regulate residential construction and issue building permits in unincorporated areas of Missouri.

    • The authority under sections 64.170 to 64.200 applies to counties of the first and second classification.
    • A county that had not adopted a building code before August 28, 2001, must obtain voter approval before adopting one under those sections.
    • Only voters in the area affected by the proposed code may vote; incorporated-territory citizens cannot vote on a code affecting a county.
    • The county commission must hold at least three public hearings and provide the statutory newspaper publication and county posting notices before adoption.
    • Regulations adopted under section 64.180 apply to unincorporated territory, except as otherwise provided.
    • Adopted or amended codes after August 28, 2001, must use a current, calendar year 1999 or later edition of a nationally recognized building code, as amended.
    • A county building ordinance may not conflict with liquefied petroleum gas installations governed by section 323.020.

    public hearings before adoption: >= 3 hearings minimum (Section 64.180(3)) · newspaper notice: >= 15 days (Notice of hearing time and place must be published in at least two newspapers having general circulation within the county) · posted notice: >= 15 days (Notice must be posted in four conspicuous places in the county) · minimum nationally recognized building-code edition: >= calendar year 1999 edition year (Applies after August 28, 2001, under section 64.180)

    “The regulations adopted shall be applicable to the unincorporated territory of the county, except as otherwise provided herein”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — County regulation of construction and issuance of building permits for buildings, including residential construction, in Missouri counties, with the practical focus on county-controlled areas outside incorporated territory.
      “the county commission in all counties of the first and second classification [...] is for this purpose empowered [...] to adopt [...] regulations to control the construction”
    • Limited — Missouri counties' authority to require permits and regulate residential construction in unincorporated areas.
      “Before the adoption of such code of regulations, the county commission shall hold at least three public hearings thereon”

Still unanswered

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

  • Owner-builder exemption — Whether an owner-builder may claim an exemption from Boone County building-permit, inspection, or construction requirements for residential construction.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage requirements.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land.
  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of a tiny home in unincorporated Boone County.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Public-water and public-sewer connection requirements for new residential construction.
1 more unanswered
  • 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 Boone County, Missouri

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

Boone County scores 62/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: about 118,849 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Boone County, Missouri?

Boone County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Boone County Resource Management (On-Site Wastewater). 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 Boone County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Boone County is limited to specific cases: Recreational vehicles placed on sites within Boone County unincorporated areas that are in unnumbered or numbered A zones, AO, AE, or AH flood zones. The recreational vehicle must either be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days and be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the ordinance's permitting, elevating, and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes. A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use only when it is on its wheels or jacking system, attached to the site only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Boone County, Missouri?

Land in Boone County runs about $5,608 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Boone County?

Boone County gets about 42.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 9% of years.

How remote is Boone County?

A representative private-land location has about 118,849 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,492,640 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 Boone compares in Missouri

Compare side-by-side →See all 115 Missouri counties ranked →