Bolthole Index

Macon County, Missouri

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Macon County, Missouri

79Index Score / 100
#5 of 115 in Missouri

Unincorporated Macon County, Missouri has no county-administered planning and zoning, but we could not confirm the county's residential building-permit requirement; ask the Macon County Commission before building12. Missouri's statewide minimum rules require a construction permit before installing or repairing most onsite wastewater systems unless an exemption applies3. Inside the City of Macon, municipal building codes and local zoning apply45.

At a glance

Building permit
Unconfirmed for unincorporated land; ask the Macon County Commission before building2
Zoning
No county-administered zoning on unincorporated land; municipal zoning varies15
Septic permits
Required before most installations or repairs unless the appropriate authority confirms an exemption3
Septic soils
0% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field; get a site evaluation6
RV / tiny home living
County zoning does not restrict these uses on unincorporated land; septic, floodplain and municipal rules still apply738
Floodplain development
A floodplain development permit is required for development in a floodplain8
Wells
Owner-drilled private wells have a limited permit exemption; public-system wells need written DNR approval910

Who to call

Also useful

Macon County Commission

General county government; the office to ask about unconfirmed county building, inspection, subdivision and floodplain procedures

660-395-9053

presiding@maconcountymo.gov

101 E. Washington St., Ste. B, Macon, MO 63552

Roads & driveways

Macon County Road and Bridge Department

Roughly 900 miles of county-maintained roads and bridges in unincorporated Macon County outside the Hudson and LaPlata Special Road Districts; the office to ask about access from a county road

660-239-4255

road.bridge@maconcountymo.gov

706 Atterberry St., Atlanta, MO 63530

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Macon County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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

We could not confirm whether unincorporated Macon County requires a residential building permit, building inspection or certificate of occupancy; ask the Macon County Commission before starting work2. The county confirms that it has no Planning and Zoning, but that statement alone does not answer the separate building-permit question1. Missouri adopts building codes locally rather than through one uniform statewide code11. Inside the City of Macon, the state directory lists municipal building and residential codes, so do not apply the unincorporated-county answer to property within city limits4. The City of Macon should confirm its current code editions, amendments, trade codes and building-permit process4.

Who handles building and land-use questions in Macon County?

Macon County does not have a county Planning and Zoning office, so the Macon County Commission is the practical starting point for unincorporated-land questions122. Ask the Commission specifically about residential building permits, inspections, occupancy approval, subdivision review and the local floodplain process because we could not confirm those county procedures. For an entrance from a county-maintained road, contact the Macon County Road and Bridge Department13. The department maintains about 900 miles of county roads, while roads within the Hudson and LaPlata Special Road Districts are outside its stated maintenance area13. Inside an incorporated municipality, contact that city for its building-code and zoning rules; local zoning varies, and zoning is specifically identified for the City of Macon5. Septic construction permits remain under the applicable Missouri wastewater authority rather than the city or county building office14.

Does Macon County have zoning?

Macon County does not administer planning and zoning on unincorporated land1. As a result, county zoning does not set rules for accessory dwellings, RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, manufactured-home occupancy or temporary camping on unincorporated property7. That answer is limited to county zoning: septic, floodplain, road-access, subdivision and other requirements can still apply1. Local zoning varies inside incorporated municipalities, and county mapping identifies zoning for the City of Macon5. The City of Macon also has adopted municipal building codes, so buyers within city limits should confirm both zoning and building requirements with the city4. We could not confirm every municipality's rules, so verify the parcel's jurisdiction before relying on the county's no-zoning answer.

How do septic permits work in Macon County?

Missouri's statewide minimum standards require a construction permit before installing or repairing most onsite wastewater systems in Macon County3. Some single-family residential lots may qualify for an exemption, but work should not begin until the applicable permitting authority confirms the exemption3. Missouri uses DHSS, contract local authorities and ordinance-based local authorities, so confirm who issues the permit for the specific address14. DNR approval is required when a subdivision, mobile-home park or campground plans to use onsite wastewater systems15. Site conditions deserve early attention: 0% of Macon County soils are rated free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so obtain a soil evaluation before fixing the homesite or system design6. Application fees for onsite-system construction, modification and repair were temporarily suspended effective August 28, 2026; confirm current fee status when applying3.

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

On unincorporated Macon County land, county zoning does not restrict RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, manufactured-home occupancy or temporary camping because the county has no zoning ordinance7. That is a zoning answer, not an exemption from sanitation or floodplain rules. A construction permit is required before installing or repairing most onsite wastewater systems unless the applicable authority confirms an exemption3. Development in a floodplain also requires some type of floodplain development permit, and work in a regulatory floodway requires an engineering No-Rise Certificate before that permit can issue8. Incorporated municipalities may set their own zoning and building rules; local zoning varies, and the City of Macon has municipal building codes54.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside a municipality, because municipal zoning and building codes can differ54.
  2. Ask the Macon County Commission whether the project needs a county building permit, inspection, occupancy approval or subdivision review2.
  3. Obtain a soil evaluation and identify the applicable septic authority before installing or repairing an onsite system314.
  4. If the homesite is in a floodplain, obtain the required floodplain development permit; regulatory-floodway work also needs a No-Rise Certificate8.
  5. If the entrance touches state-highway right-of-way, obtain the state right-of-way permit16. For access from a county-maintained road, contact Road and Bridge13.
  6. For a private well, confirm whether the limited owner-installer exemption applies; public-system wells need written DNR approval910.

What should you check before buying land in Macon County?

Start with septic feasibility: 0% of Macon County soils are rated free of severe limits for a conventional drain field, so a site evaluation can materially affect the buildable area and system choice6. Check flood maps early because development in a floodplain requires a floodplain development permit, while the exact Macon County community permitting contact remains unconfirmed8. Verify legal and physical road access with the Road and Bridge Department for a county-maintained road or with the state for a state-highway entrance1316. Confirm whether the parcel lies inside a municipality: Macon County does not administer county zoning, but municipal zoning varies and the City of Macon has adopted building codes154. Macon County's effective property-tax rate is 0.8%, and its median annual property-tax bill is $1,0491718.

Watch-outs

  • Macon County's lack of county planning and zoning does not establish whether a residential building permit, inspection or occupancy approval is required; ask the County Commission before building12.
  • The no-county-zoning answer applies to unincorporated land; municipal zoning varies, and the City of Macon has its own building codes54.
  • Floodplain development requires a permit, but we could not confirm Macon County's local floodplain permitting contact; ask the County Commission before work near a mapped flood area82.

Sources

  1. County Commission | Macon County, Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  2. Macon County Commission (maconcountymo.com)
  3. OWTS Construction Permit Process, quoted and re-checked
  4. City Building Codes for Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  5. County Commission | Macon County, Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  6. 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
  7. Missouri law on county zoning and building authority
  8. Floodplain Forms, quoted and re-checked
  9. Who Regulates Water Wells in Missouri? - PUB4001, quoted and re-checked
  10. Who Regulates Water Wells in Missouri? - PUB4001, quoted and re-checked
  11. RSMo Section 64.170 (Missouri statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. County Commission | Macon County, Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  13. Macon County Road and Bridge Department (maconcountymo.com)
  14. OWTS Construction Permit Process (Missouri statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. OWTS Construction Permit Process (Missouri statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Category:941 Permits and Access Requests - Engineering Policy Guide, quoted and re-checked
  17. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  18. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 10, 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 5 of the neighbors with published rules, Macon County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleMacon CountyAdair CountyRandolph CountyShelby CountyLinn CountyChariton CountyKnox County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot published
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNot publishedNot published
Septic permitsDHSSDHSSCounty Health Dept.MO Dept. of Health & Senior ServicesDHSSDHSSMO Dept. of Health & Senior Services

County locator

Macon County in Missouri

79
County map
Macon County highlighted among the Missouri counties · colored by Index score

How Macon County scores

Seclusion73100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency62100% ev.
Admin Boringness8990% ev.
Durability56100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost82100% 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 →

$187kTypical home
0.8%Property tax
$4,026Land / acre
41.2"Annual rain
6.5% of yrsSevere drought
9.7 / yr (+8.3)Mid-century 100°F days
16.6 daysMid-century dry spell
2" (+7.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.86×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,736Home insurance / yr
1.8% / yrInsurance growth
1.34%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
11,469People within 30 min
730,573People within 2 hr
13,569Radius comparison (15 mi)
18.9People / sq mi
2.3%Federal land
67.9%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
29.8%Wooded land
41.7 tonsBiomass / forest ac
52.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Macon 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.

Atlanta · Bevier · Callao · Elmer · Town of Ethel · La Plata · Macon · New Cambria · Village of South Gifford

Answers from the rulebook for Macon County

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

Macon County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County-administered planning and zoning in Macon County, Missouri.

    • The county statement addresses Macon County planning and zoning; it does not establish rules administered by incorporated municipalities.
    • Other non-zoning requirements, including state and local health, wastewater, floodplain, subdivision, and municipal rules where applicable, may still apply.
    “No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Absent — County-administered planning and zoning in unincorporated Macon County.
      “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
    • Absent — County-administered planning and zoning in unincorporated Macon County, Missouri.
      “No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
    • Absent — County-administered planning and zoning in Macon County, including the county's unincorporated area.
      “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate conclusion for Macon County: county-administered zoning is absent, while zoning is identified for the City of Macon; local zoning therefore varies by incorporated municipality and should not be treated as a county-administered rule.

    • Macon County states it has no Planning and Zoning.
    • The county GIS page identifies a Zoning - Macon City layer.
    • Municipal ordinances and any other incorporated-city rules must be checked separately.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Absent — Local zoning administered by Macon County for unincorporated land.
      “No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of municipal and township zoning within Macon County; the county itself does not administer countywide planning and zoning.
      “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Zoning districtsNot published

    County zoning districts in unincorporated Macon County, Missouri.

    • This finding concerns county-administered planning and zoning in unincorporated Macon County; incorporated municipalities may administer their own land-use controls.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    Minimum dwelling-size requirements arising from Macon County zoning in unincorporated Macon County.

    • Macon County states it currently has no Planning and Zoning.
    • This absence conclusion does not address municipal zoning rules inside incorporated municipalities; the county GIS page separately lists zoning for Macon City.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Minimum lot sizeNone

    Minimum lot-size requirements arising from Macon County zoning in unincorporated Macon County.

    • Macon County states it currently has no Planning and Zoning.
    • This absence conclusion does not address municipal zoning rules inside incorporated municipalities; the county GIS page separately lists zoning for Macon City.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • SetbacksNone

    Setback requirements arising from Macon County zoning in unincorporated Macon County.

    • Macon County states it currently has no Planning and Zoning.
    • This absence conclusion does not address municipal zoning rules inside incorporated municipalities; the county GIS page separately lists zoning for Macon City.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Lot coverageNone

    Lot-coverage requirements arising from Macon County zoning in unincorporated Macon County.

    • Macon County states it currently has no Planning and Zoning.
    • This absence conclusion does not address municipal zoning rules inside incorporated municipalities; the county GIS page separately lists zoning for Macon City.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Building heightNone

    Building-height requirements arising from Macon County zoning in unincorporated Macon County.

    • Macon County states it currently has no Planning and Zoning.
    • This absence conclusion does not address municipal zoning rules inside incorporated municipalities; the county GIS page separately lists zoning for Macon City.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Living in an RV · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Macon County: no county rule sets this, because Macon County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Municipal zoning may apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    • Other state, municipal, health, septic, floodplain, and subdivision requirements may still apply.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Macon County: no county rule sets this, because Macon County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Municipal zoning may apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    • Other state, municipal, health, septic, floodplain, and subdivision requirements may still apply.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Tiny homes · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Macon County: no county rule sets this, because Macon County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Municipal zoning may apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    • Other state, municipal, health, septic, floodplain, and subdivision requirements may still apply.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Macon County: no county rule sets this, because Macon County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Municipal zoning may apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    • Other state, municipal, health, septic, floodplain, and subdivision requirements may still apply.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Macon County: no county rule sets this, because Macon County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Municipal zoning may apply inside incorporated municipalities.
    • Other state, municipal, health, septic, floodplain, and subdivision requirements may still apply.
    “Does Macon County have Planning and Zoning? No, Macon County currently does not have any Planning and Zoning.”
  • Building permitNot required

    No county residential building code adopted per the state County Building Codes dataset (data.mo.gov iq7s-izvt, verified current 2026-08), and the county maintains no building or code-enforcement department; the County Commission page separately confirms the county has no Planning & Zoning. No post-2021 adoption found.

    MO County Building Codes dataset (data.mo.gov) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Missouri rules that apply here

  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Missouri statewide legal framework for building-code adoption by counties and other communities; the statutes authorize local adoption rather than establishing one uniformly adopted statewide building code.

    • County authority under RSMo 64.170 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 under RSMo 64.170 to 64.200.
    • The adoption vote is limited to voters in the affected area; a code affecting a county is not voted on by citizens of incorporated territory.
    • A county adopting under RSMo 64.180 must use a current nationally recognized building code edition from calendar year 1999 or later, as amended.
    • A county building ordinance may not conflict with liquefied petroleum gas installation requirements governed by RSMo 323.020.
    • A community may incorporate a code by reference only if it otherwise has legal power to adopt the ordinance.
    • A code incorporated by reference must be filed with the community clerk and available for public inspection for 90 days before adoption.
    • An ordinance adopting a code by reference must state the penalty separately rather than incorporate the penalty by reference.
    • RSMo 67.280 defines community to include any county, fire protection district, or municipality, and municipality to include an incorporated city, town, or village.
    “Because fire and building codes are adopted at the local level in Missouri”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater treatment system construction and repair permitting in Macon County, Missouri, under the Missouri DHSS-administered program.

    • The official DHSS county listing identifies DHSS as both the agency and authority type for Macon County.
    • A construction permit is required before installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems.
    • Some single-family residential lots may be exempt from permitting; the appropriate authority must confirm an exemption before work begins.
    • Effective August 28, 2026, application fees for on-site sewage disposal system construction, modifications, and repairs were temporarily suspended due to changes to RSMo 701.046.
    • DHSS regulations cover single-family residential systems, including lagoons, and onsite or cluster systems treating domestic wastewater flows of 3,000 gallons per day or less and dispersing wastewater through soil treatment or absorption systems.
    • The Department of Natural Resources regulates other systems, including non-single-family lagoons, systems discharging to surface waters, systems with flows greater than 3,000 gallons per day that disperse through soil treatment or absorption systems, and industrial non-domestic wastewater systems.
    • DNR approval is required for subdivisions, mobile home parks, and campgrounds if OWTS use is planned.

    domestic wastewater flow covered by DHSS: <= 3000 gallons per day (Systems with flows greater than 3,000 gallons per day are regulated by DNR when they disperse wastewater through soil treatment or absorption systems.) · temporary permit-fee suspension effective date: 2026-08-28 (Application fees for on-site sewage disposal system construction, modifications, and repairs are temporarily suspended.)

    “Agency: DHSS Authority Type: DHSS Address: 930 Wildwood Dr, Jefferson City, MO 65102 County: Macon Phone: (573) 751-6095 ext. 5 Website: N/A”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Mixed — Missouri wastewater treatment systems, including domestic onsite systems, larger-flow systems, direct discharges, lagoons, subdivisions, and industrial wastewater.
      “In Missouri, different state and local agencies are responsible for regulating wastewater treatment systems.”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater treatment systems statewide in Missouri.
      “DHSS OWTS permitting falls under one of three authority types: DHSS Onsite Program, Local Authority (contract), or Local Authority via Ordinance. The application process varies by permitting authority.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems in Missouri, including residential systems subject to state permitting.

    • A construction permit is required before installing or repairing most OWTS.
    • Some single-family residential lots may be exempt.
    • For residential property less than three acres, a permit is required; the exemption does not apply in some counties, so the county authority must be checked.
    • Work should not begin until a permit is issued or an exemption is confirmed.
    • Effective August 28, 2026, application fees for onsite sewage disposal system construction, modifications, and repairs are temporarily suspended.

    residential lot threshold: < 3 acres (The exemption does not apply in some counties.) · temporary permit-fee suspension effective date: 2026-08-28 (Applies to application fees associated with onsite sewage disposal system construction, modifications, and repairs.)

    “A construction permit is required before installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS). Some single family residential lots may be exempt from permitting.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems in Macon County under Missouri's statewide minimum standards.
      “A construction permit is required before installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS).”
    • Required — Installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems statewide in Missouri.
      “A construction permit is required before installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS). Some single family residential lots may be exempt from permitting.”
    • Required — Proposed campgrounds, mobile home parks, and subdivisions planning to use onsite wastewater treatment systems anywhere in Missouri.
      “DNR must approve subdivisions, mobile home parks and campgrounds if the use of OWTS is planned.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Inspection or evaluation of existing onsite wastewater systems in connection with Missouri real-estate transfers.

    • Local public health agencies generally no longer inspect existing systems for real-estate transfers.
    • A private licensed inspector may perform an inspection or evaluation.
    • A lender, buyer, or other transaction participant may require an assessment.
    • Some local standards may be more stringent than state regulations.
    • Inspections and evaluations are distinct; an inspection includes a hydraulic test, while an evaluation does not.
    “For the most part, local public health agencies no longer inspect existing systems related to real estate transfer. The help of a licensed inspector can be obtained to check the condition of the system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Inspections of existing onsite sewage systems in connection with property sales statewide in Missouri.
      “Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' (DHSS) rules governing onsite sewage systems cover minimum construction requirements, system inspections at the time of property sales, and requirements for percolation testers and soil evaluators.”
  • 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”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Construction or reconstruction of domestic, multi-family, high-yield, monitoring, and heat-pump wells in Macon County.
      “Landowners who drill their own well and/or install their own pump are exempt from permit requirements, but must adhere to all other sections of the rules.”
    • Required — Construction or alteration of a public water well serving a public water system in Macon County.
      “Public water systems must receive written approval from the PDWB before constructing or altering a public well, unless the system meets the charitable and benevolent organization exemptions”
    • 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.”
  • Subdividing landLimited

    Subdivision plats in the unincorporated areas of counties covered by RSMo section 64.070 after the county commission adopts subdivision regulations.

    • The county commission must first adopt subdivision regulations.
    • The plat must first be submitted to the planning commission.
    • If the county planning commission does not report upon the plat within thirty days, it may then be deemed approved.
    • If amended or rejected by the planning commission, the action may be overruled and the plat approved only by the county commission, with the reasons for overruling spread upon the county commission minutes.
    • The recorder of deeds may not record the plat until receiving a certificate of authority from the county zoning enforcement officer.
    • The statute also permits a county planning commission, upon written request of an incorporated area's legislative body where there is no municipal planning commission, to pass upon subdivision plats within that incorporated area; those plats are subject to county planning commission rules and approval procedures.

    planning commission reporting period: 30 days (If no report is made, the plat may then be deemed approved.)

    “After the county commission shall have adopted such subdivision regulations, no plat of a subdivision of land within the unincorporated area of such county [...]”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Subdivision regulations adopted by Missouri cities, towns, or villages under RSMo section 89.410.
      “The planning commission shall recommend and the council may by ordinance adopt regulations governing the subdivision of land within its jurisdiction.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction or modification of driveways within MoDOT right-of-way statewide.

    • A permit is required for construction of driveways and modifications to existing driveways on MoDOT right-of-way.
    • An initial online request must be submitted for each planned listed activity.
    • Engineered plans, traffic studies, hydraulic analysis, traffic-control plans, surety deposits, or performance bonds may be required depending on the work.
    • The rule does not establish a permit requirement for driveways outside MoDOT right-of-way.
    “We require you to obtain a permit to work on MoDOT's Right of Way for: Construction of driveways”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — A proposed driveway or other entrance in Macon County that requires work within Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission right-of-way, including an entrance within normal-access state-highway right-of-way.
      “The agreement that shall be used when allowing an entrance within normal access right of way is a Permit to Work on Right of Way.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Proposed state-owned development, including leased facilities, located in a special flood hazard area anywhere in Missouri, including Macon County.

    • All Executive Branch agencies must obtain a floodplain development permit from SEMA before construction starts.
    • The SEMA permit is intended to be the only local floodplain permit required for state agency development under the alternative procedures authorized by 44 CFR 60.11 through 60.13.
    • The regulation applies to state-owned lands with special emphasis on special flood hazard areas owned, leased, or managed by Missouri.
    • State-owned development must comply with the regulation and other applicable regulations.
    • In numbered or unnumbered A Zones and AE, AO, and AH Zones, no permit may be granted for new construction, substantial improvements, or other improvements unless the regulation's conditions are satisfied.
    • Until a floodway is designated, development in numbered A or AE Zones requires demonstration that the cumulative effect will not increase the base-flood water-surface elevation by more than one foot at any point within the community.
    • State-owned residential construction and substantial improvements must generally have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated one foot above the base-flood elevation where base-flood-elevation data is available.
    • State-owned nonresidential construction must generally be elevated one foot above the base-flood elevation or floodproofed as specified, with professional-engineer certification.

    permit timing: before start of construction · base-flood water-surface increase limit before floodway designation: <= 1 foot (Cumulative effect of the proposed development, combined with existing and anticipated development.) · residential lowest-floor elevation above base-flood elevation: >= 1 foot (Where base-flood-elevation data is available.)

    “All Executive Branch agencies shall obtain a floodplain development permit from SEMA for all proposed, state-owned development to be located in a special flood hazard area. Such permits shall be obtained prior to the start of construction.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Development in floodplains in Missouri communities, including Macon County where the state guidance applies through the community floodplain-management process.
      “This sample Floodplain Development Permit was developed by the State and can be used “as is” or modified to fit the community’s permit process. Regardless, some type of permit MUST be issued for ALL development in the floodplain. An Engineering “No-Rise” Certificate is required for all proposed development in the regulatory floodway, and must be obtained by the community before the floodplain development permit may be issued.”
    • Limited — Projects including mining, dredging, building construction, and other dirt-moving activities in designated flood hazard areas within participating Missouri jurisdictions.
      “Some jurisdictions (for example, county, city) require any projects in certain floodplains do not raise flood heights.”
    • Required — All development in a Missouri floodplain, administered through the applicable community floodplain permitting process.
      “Regardless, some type of permit MUST be issued for ALL development in the floodplain.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Missouri Department of Natural Resources air construction permits statewide.

    • Fees apply to air construction permits, not to every Missouri building or land-use permit.
    • Construction permit fees include a filing fee and an hourly processing fee.
    • The filing fee depends on the type of construction permit.
    • The listed fees are effective January 1, 2026.
    • Fees applicable until December 31, 2025 are available on the Air Construction Permit Fees white sheet.
    • A convenience fee is charged for electronic payment.

    portable source relocation filing fee: 300 USD · minor permit filing fee: 300 USD · minor permit processing fee: per 100 USD (hour) · general permit filing fee: 700 USD · new source review filing fee: 6000 USD (plus $100 per hour processing fee) · prevention of significant deterioration filing fee: 6000 USD (plus $100 per hour processing fee) · hazardous air pollutant filing fee: 6000 USD (plus $100 per hour processing fee) · temporary or pilot filing fee: 250 USD (plus $100 per hour processing fee)

    “Construction permit fees include a filing fee and an hourly processing fee. The filing fee is dependent on the type of construction permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Missouri onsite wastewater treatment system construction, modification, and repair application fees administered under the statewide DHSS OWTS program.
      “Effective August 28, 2026, [...] the application fees associated with on-site sewage disposal system construction, modifications, and repairs will be temporarily suspended.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Installation or repair of most onsite wastewater treatment systems in Missouri.

    • Some single-family residential lots may be exempt from permitting.
    • The applicant must determine which agency has permitting authority where the work is being done.
    • DHSS permitting may be administered by the DHSS Onsite Program, a local authority under contract, or a local authority via ordinance.
    • Work should not begin until a permit has been issued or an exemption has been confirmed.
    • DHSS regulates single-family residential systems and onsite or cluster systems treating domestic wastewater flows of 3,000 gallons per day or less that disperse wastewater through soil treatment or absorption systems.
    • DNR regulates other systems, including non-single-family lagoons, systems discharging to surface waters, systems over 3,000 gallons per day, and industrial wastewater systems.
    • DNR must approve subdivisions, mobile home parks, and campgrounds if OWTS use is planned.

    domestic wastewater flow threshold: <= 3000 gallons per day (Systems above this threshold are regulated by DNR when they disperse wastewater through soil treatment or absorption systems.)

    “A construction permit is required before installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS). Some single family residential lots may be exempt from permitting.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Permit applications for work on Missouri Department of Transportation right-of-way statewide.
      “Contact the Traffic Specialist a minimum of 48 hours prior to beginning work and for all necessary inspections.”
  • 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”

Inside cities and towns in Macon County

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    The City of Macon, Missouri, within municipal limits.

    • The Missouri Department of Natural Resources states that the dataset does not include jurisdiction-specific amendments or trade codes; those details require confirmation from the City of Macon.

    residential code: 2000 IRC · building code: 2000 IBC

    “The lists provided here include the general code adopted but do not include any specific amendments made by the jurisdiction or trade codes adopted; please contact the jurisdiction for specific code details.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Owner-builder exemption — Owner-builder exemptions from building-permit or contractor requirements in Macon County.
  • Inspections — Building construction in unincorporated Macon County, Missouri.
  • Certificate of occupancy — Occupancy of buildings in unincorporated Macon County, Missouri.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water or sewer connection requirements for property in Macon County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use of private property in unincorporated Macon County, Missouri.

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 Macon County, Missouri

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

Macon County scores 79/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

Macon County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services (DHSS) Onsite Wastewater Treatment Program (local administrative authority typically the county health department). 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 Macon County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Macon County is allowed: Unincorporated Macon County: no county rule sets this, because Macon County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance. Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits. Municipal zoning may apply inside incorporated municipalities. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Macon County, Missouri?

Land in Macon County runs about $4,026 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Macon County?

Macon County gets about 41.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 6.5% of years.

How remote is Macon County?

A representative private-land location has about 11,469 people within a 30-minute drive and 730,573 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 Macon compares in Missouri

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