Bolthole Index

McDonald County, Missouri

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

67Index Score / 100
#77 of 115 in Missouri

Unincorporated McDonald County, Missouri does not require a general building permit, but septic installation and construction within the flood zone require septic permits and floodplain development permits1. McDonald County has no county zoning; incorporated cities may have separate building-permit and zoning rules2. Start septic-permit inquiries with the McDonald County Health Department; Missouri divides wastewater oversight between health agencies and the Department of Natural Resources by system type34.

At a glance

Building permit
No general permit in unincorporated areas; septic installation and flood-zone construction require permits1
Zoning
No county planning or zoning requirements; incorporated cities may have their own rules5
Septic
Start with the County Health Department; system type can put wastewater oversight with Missouri DNR34
Floodplain building
A floodplain development permit and documented elevation at least 2 feet above Base Elevation are required6
RV living
Temporary camping has no county zoning restriction; long-term RV occupancy remains unconfirmed outside mapped flood zones78
Tiny homes
No county zoning rule restricts tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated areas7
Owner-installed manufactured home
No state installer license is required when an owner installs on their property for their own occupancy9
Well work
State permits generally apply, but a landowner may install their own well or pump without one10

Who to call

Health department

McDonald County Health Department

Public health and environmental-services inquiries

(417) 223-4351

3446 S. Business Hwy 71, Pineville, MO 64856

Septic permits

McDonald County Health Department - Environmental

Septic-system permits and repair permits

Floodplain permits

McDonald County Emergency Management and Floodplain Administrator

Floodplain status, records, violations and floodplain development permits

417-223-7575

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

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

Unincorporated McDonald County does not run a general building-permit program: the county identifies septic installation and flood-zone construction as the exceptions1. A new residence or building in county floodplain-administered areas needs a floodplain development permit, documented elevation at least 2 feet above Base Elevation and no change in the A-zone6. McDonald County does not issue certificates of occupancy; incorporated municipalities may have separate occupancy requirements1112. Missouri exempts farm buildings and structures from regulations and permits imposed by county fire-protection or fire-prevention ordinances, but that exemption does not waive septic, floodplain or other applicable requirements13. We could not confirm general county building-inspection requirements, so ask the County Commission before designing around an assumed exemption.

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

For unincorporated McDonald County construction, the county identifies septic permits and floodplain development permits rather than a general residential building-permit process1. Start septic-permit inquiries with the McDonald County Health Department at (417) 223-4351 or visit 3446 S. Business Hwy 71, Pineville, MO 64856143. The department says new septic systems and repairs require permits3. For floodplain status and floodplain development permits, contact McDonald County Emergency Management and the Floodplain Administrator at 417-223-757515. Inside an incorporated city, ask the city about its building codes and building permits; keep wastewater questions with the Health Department until the applicable authority is confirmed14. Applications for utility construction through county roads go to the County Commission16. We could not confirm floodplain permit fees, so request the current application and fee schedule from the Floodplain Administrator.

Does McDonald County have zoning?

Unincorporated McDonald County has no county planning or zoning requirements2. Goodman and Southwest City have their own zoning inside municipal limits; start septic-permit inquiries with the McDonald County Health Department and confirm the wastewater authority for the proposed system171834. The county imposes no zoning-based minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, yard setback, lot-coverage limit or building-height limit on unincorporated land1920212223. Those answers do not erase septic, floodplain, road-access or private deed restrictions2120. A county-hosted 2014 study reported that McDonald County had not adopted a building code, but we could not confirm that the historical finding remains current; ask the County Commission before designing to that assumption24.

How do septic permits work in McDonald County?

The McDonald County Health Department says all septic systems and repairs require septic permits3. Missouri assigns individual single-family systems and certain systems with flows of 3,000 gallons per day or less to DHSS or a local agency; DNR regulates direct-discharge systems, surface land application, non-individual lagoons and domestic wastewater flows above 3,000 gallons per day4. Where central sewer is unavailable, onsite wastewater treatment must meet applicable construction and permitting rules and cannot create a nuisance, health hazard or water contamination25. Missouri allows permit exemptions for some single-family lots, but we could not confirm an exemption under McDonald County's current ordinance; do not assume a state exemption overrides the department's permit requirement263. Inside Pineville, private sewage disposal where public sewer is unavailable must meet the city's requirements, including DNR recommendations and any additional Health Officer requirements27. Missouri does not itself require a pre-sale septic inspection; buyer- or lender-requested evaluations need a licensed individual, and any local sale requirement remains unconfirmed—ask the Health Department28. Only 22% of McDonald County soils are rated without severe limitations for conventional drain fields, so assess the septic site before choosing the house location29.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in McDonald County?

Unincorporated McDonald County has no county zoning rule restricting accessory dwellings, tiny-home occupancy, manufactured-home occupancy or temporary camping7. The county also has no zoning-based minimum dwelling size, though septic, floodplain and private restrictions can still affect a project19. We could not confirm a separate county rule for long-term residential RV occupancy outside mapped floodplain areas, so ask the County Commission and Health Department about the proposed use and wastewater plan. Within covered floodplain zones, an RV must be on site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the ordinance's manufactured-home permitting, elevation and anchoring requirements8. A Missouri owner may install a manufactured home on their own property for their own occupancy without a state installer license; other applicable requirements remain9.

What are the steps to build a home in McDonald County?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is inside an incorporated city, because the city may impose building permits, zoning approval and building-code rules; start septic-permit inquiries with the McDonald County Health Department13.
  1. Ask the Floodplain Administrator to determine floodplain status for both the building and septic site; covered construction needs documented elevation at least 2 feet above Base Elevation and a floodplain development permit6.
  1. Have the septic site assessed early, because only 22% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field29.
  1. Confirm the wastewater authority with the Health Department and obtain the applicable septic permit before installation or repair3426.
  1. Submit any utility-construction application involving a county roadway to the County Commission16.
  1. If the driveway enters MoDOT right-of-way, obtain the state driveway permit; we could not confirm a county driveway-permit rule30.
  1. For a well, use an appropriately permitted installer, or follow the state-law exception allowing a landowner to install their own well or pump10.

What should you check before buying land in McDonald County?

Start with boundary, city-limit and flood-map checks, because incorporated cities may have their own codes and county floodplain status can trigger a development permit531. Test the proposed septic area before settling on a home site: only 22% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field29. Terrain and clearing also deserve parcel-level estimates because 56.9% of the land has a slope of 15% or less and 59.5% is wooded3233. A driveway on MoDOT right-of-way requires a state permit, while we could not confirm a county driveway-permit requirement30. The typical effective property-tax rate is about 0.5%, the median annual property-tax bill is about $723 and the typical home-insurance premium is about $2,115 per year343536.

Watch-outs

  • McDonald County has specific RV requirements in mapped floodplain zones; we could not confirm a separate long-term RV-residence rule outside those zones, so ask the County Commission and Health Department about the proposed use and wastewater plan8.
  • McDonald County's farm-building exemption from county fire ordinances does not remove septic or floodplain requirements13.
  • Inside an incorporated city, ask the city about building permits and zoning approval, and ask the Health Department to confirm the wastewater authority for your system134.
  • We could not confirm the current floodplain permit fee; request the application and fee schedule from the Floodplain Administrator31.

Sources

  1. Planning and Zoning Laws, quoted and re-checked
  2. Planning and Zoning Laws, quoted and re-checked
  3. McDonald County Health Department - Environmental (mcdonaldcountyhealth.com)
  4. On-site Septic Systems and Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  5. No Planning and Zoning Requirement Letter, quoted and re-checked
  6. Emergency Management - McDonald County Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  7. Missouri law on county zoning and building authority
  8. Floodplain Management Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  9. revisor.mo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  10. Water Wells - PUB2945, quoted and re-checked
  11. No County Occupancy Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  12. No County Occupancy Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  13. RSMo Section 64.003 — Farm buildings and farm structures, quoted and re-checked
  14. McDonald County Health Department (mcdonaldcountyhealth.com)
  15. McDonald County Emergency Management and Floodplain Administrator (mcdonaldcountymo.gov)
  16. Ordinances - McDonald County Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  17. Goodman: Chapter 405: Zoning Code - City of Goodman, MO (McDonald County), quoted and re-checked
  18. Town of Southwest City: Article II: Districts And District Regulations - Southwest City, MO (McDonald County), quoted and re-checked
  19. Camp Crowder Joint Land Use Study, quoted and re-checked
  20. Camp Crowder Joint Land Use Study, quoted and re-checked
  21. Camp Crowder Joint Land Use Study, quoted and re-checked
  22. Camp Crowder Joint Land Use Study, quoted and re-checked
  23. Camp Crowder Joint Land Use Study, quoted and re-checked
  24. Camp Crowder Joint Land Use Study Report, quoted and re-checked
  25. Onsite Wastewater Treatment, quoted and re-checked
  26. OWTS Construction Permit Process, quoted and re-checked
  27. Pineville: Chapter 715: Private Sewage Disposal - City of Pineville, MO (McDonald County), quoted and re-checked
  28. health.mo.gov, quoted and re-checked
  29. 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
  30. Permits | Missouri Department of Transportation (Missouri statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Emergency Management - McDonald County Missouri, quoted and re-checked
  32. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  33. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Typical home insurance premium: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, McDonald County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleMcDonald CountyNewton CountyBarry CountyJasper CountyLawrence CountyStone CountyBarton County
Building permitLimitedRequiredNot requiredRequiredNot requiredRequiredNot required
County zoningNoNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedNoYesNot published
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

McDonald County in Missouri

67
County map
McDonald County highlighted among the Missouri counties · colored by Index score

How McDonald County scores

Seclusion56100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency60100% ev.
Admin Boringness7690% ev.
Durability42100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$239kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$3,910Land / acre
46.7"Annual rain
9% of yrsSevere drought
13.8 / yr (+11.5)Mid-century 100°F days
17.7 daysMid-century dry spell
2.16" (+4.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.57×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,115Home insurance / yr
2.5% / yrInsurance growth
1.54%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
15,831People within 30 min
1,819,712People within 2 hr
50,510Radius comparison (15 mi)
44.3People / sq mi
0%Federal land
56.9%Land at 15% slope or less
22%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
75,613 acWorkable land screen
59.5%Wooded land
44.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in McDonald 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: Anderson · Village of Ginger Blue · Town of Jane · Town of Lanagan · Noel

Answers from the rulebook for McDonald County

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

McDonald County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Building permits for construction in unincorporated McDonald County.

    • The county states that the only building permits required are for septic tank installation and construction within the flood zone.
    • Septic tank requirements are administered through the McDonald County Health Department.
    • Building in the flood zone requires contacting the McDonald County Assessor’s Office.
    • Cities within McDonald County may impose their own building-code and permit requirements.
    “The only building permits that are required are for septic tank installation and construction within the flood zone. [...] IT IS ADVISED: You contact each city within McDonald County for information on city building codes and permits.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Building permits for construction in unincorporated McDonald County, Missouri.
      “The only building permits that are required are for septic tank installation and construction within the flood zone.”
    • Required — Any new residence or building in the county floodplain, specifically where the county floodplain administrator determines the requirement applies.
      “Any new residence of building must be 2 feet above Base Elevation (minimum) and documented and have flood plain development permit (not causing change in A-zone).”
  • Building code adoptedNot adopted

    McDonald County building-code adoption for unincorporated areas, as stated in the 2014 county-hosted Camp Crowder Joint Land Use Study Report.

    • The cited report is historical and does not by itself establish the county's status as of 2026.
    • Municipalities within McDonald County may adopt and administer their own building codes.
    • Separate floodplain and septic requirements may still apply.
    “Neither Newton County nor McDonald County has building codes.”
  • Certificate of occupancyNot required

    Certificates of occupancy issued by McDonald County, Missouri.

    • The September 20, 2023 county letter states that the county does not issue Certificates of Occupancy.
    • The county adopted Missouri’s occupancy law in 2024 for the assessor’s pro-rata tax assessment of newly constructed and occupied residential property; the cited ordinance does not state that the county issues Certificates of Occupancy.
    • Incorporated municipalities may administer separate occupancy requirements.
    “McDonald County does not have an Occupancy Ordinance currently; therefore, the county does not issue Certificates of Occupancy.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — Certificates of occupancy issued by McDonald County.
      “McDonald County does not have an Occupancy Ordinance currently; therefore, the county does not issue Certificates of Occupancy.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Planning and zoning laws administered by McDonald County in its unincorporated territory.

    • The source states that McDonald County does not have planning or zoning laws.
    • The source states that construction within the flood zone requires a building permit; this claim concerns countywide planning and zoning, not floodplain permitting.
    • The source advises contacting each city within McDonald County for city building codes and permits.
    “This is to inform you that McDonald County, Missouri does not have planning nor zoning laws, in accordance to RsMo 49.605.”
  • Local zoningAbsent

    County-administered planning and zoning requirements in McDonald County, Missouri.

    • The letter states that incorporated cities within McDonald County may have separate requirements; it advises contacting each city for city building codes and permits.
    • The statement is dated April 8, 2020; the county ordinance page also lists a later 2025 document titled “2025 NO PLANNING OR ZONING.”
    “McDonald County has no planning and zoning or permitting requirements at this time.”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNot published

    Unincorporated McDonald County: no county rule sets this, because McDonald 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.
    • The source states that McDonald County does not have planning or zoning laws.
    • The source states that construction within the flood zone requires a building permit; this claim concerns countywide planning and zoning, not floodplain permitting.
    “This is to inform you that McDonald County, Missouri does not have planning nor zoning laws, in accordance to RsMo 49.605.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    Minimum dwelling-size requirements imposed by McDonald County in unincorporated areas.

    • The source states that McDonald County has not adopted zoning; incorporated municipalities may impose separate rules.
    • This claim addresses county zoning-based controls and does not eliminate building, septic, floodplain, deed, or private restrictions.
    “Neither Newton County nor McDonald County has adopted zoning.”
  • Minimum lot sizeNone

    Minimum lot-size requirements imposed by McDonald County in unincorporated areas.

    • The source states that McDonald County has not adopted zoning; incorporated municipalities may impose separate rules.
    • This claim addresses county zoning-based controls and does not eliminate subdivision, septic, floodplain, deed, or private restrictions.
    “Neither Newton County nor McDonald County has adopted zoning.”
  • SetbacksNone

    County zoning-based yard, setback, and open-space requirements in unincorporated McDonald County.

    • The source states that McDonald County has not adopted zoning; incorporated municipalities may impose separate rules.
    • This claim does not eliminate floodplain, road, septic, deed, or private restrictions.
    “Neither Newton County nor McDonald County has adopted zoning.”
  • Lot coverageNone

    County zoning-based lot-coverage requirements in unincorporated McDonald County.

    • The source states that McDonald County has not adopted zoning; incorporated municipalities may impose separate rules.
    • This claim does not eliminate floodplain, septic, deed, or private restrictions.
    “Neither Newton County nor McDonald County has adopted zoning.”
  • Building heightNone

    County zoning-based building-height requirements in unincorporated McDonald County.

    • The source states that McDonald County has not adopted zoning; incorporated municipalities may impose separate rules.
    • This claim does not eliminate building-code, floodplain, airport, deed, or private restrictions.
    “Neither Newton County nor McDonald County has adopted zoning.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles placed on sites within all unnumbered and numbered A zones and AE zones on the community's Flood Insurance Rate Map in McDonald County.

    • The recreational vehicle must be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, or be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the permitting, elevation, and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes under the ordinance.
    • 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.

    maximum site duration under first alternative: < 180 consecutive days

    “Require that recreational vehicles placed on sites within all unnumbered and numbered A zones and AE zones on the community's FIRM either: a. be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, or b. be fully licensed and ready for highway use*; or c. meet the permitting, elevation, and the anchoring requirements for manufactured homes of this ordinance.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated McDonald County: no county rule sets this, because McDonald 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.
    • The source states that McDonald County does not have planning or zoning laws.
    • The source states that construction within the flood zone requires a building permit; this claim concerns countywide planning and zoning, not floodplain permitting.
    “This is to inform you that McDonald County, Missouri does not have planning nor zoning laws, in accordance to RsMo 49.605.”
  • Tiny homes · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated McDonald County: no county rule sets this, because McDonald 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.
    • The source states that McDonald County does not have planning or zoning laws.
    • The source states that construction within the flood zone requires a building permit; this claim concerns countywide planning and zoning, not floodplain permitting.
    “This is to inform you that McDonald County, Missouri does not have planning nor zoning laws, in accordance to RsMo 49.605.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated McDonald County: no county rule sets this, because McDonald 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.
    • The source states that McDonald County does not have planning or zoning laws.
    • The source states that construction within the flood zone requires a building permit; this claim concerns countywide planning and zoning, not floodplain permitting.
    “This is to inform you that McDonald County, Missouri does not have planning nor zoning laws, in accordance to RsMo 49.605.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated McDonald County: no county rule sets this, because McDonald 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.
    • The source states that McDonald County does not have planning or zoning laws.
    • The source states that construction within the flood zone requires a building permit; this claim concerns countywide planning and zoning, not floodplain permitting.
    “This is to inform you that McDonald County, Missouri does not have planning nor zoning laws, in accordance to RsMo 49.605.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    New residences or buildings in McDonald County floodplain-administered areas.

    • The structure must be at least 2 feet above Base Elevation.
    • The elevation must be documented.
    • A floodplain development permit is required.
    • The development must not cause change in the A-zone.
    • The Floodplain Administrator determines floodplain status and works to ensure dwellings or businesses are not built in the A zone.
    • The page states that the Floodplain Administrator determines whether septic is in the floodplain and reports and corrects violations when necessary.

    minimum elevation above Base Elevation: >= 2 feet

    “Any new residence of building must be 2 feet above Base Elevation (minimum) and documented and have flood plain development permit (not causing change in A-zone).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New residences or buildings and other development subject to McDonald County floodplain administration.
      “Any new residence of building must be 2 feet above Base Elevation (minimum) and documented and have flood plain development permit (not causing change in A-zone).”
  • Permit processPartial

    Utility construction projects through McDonald County roadways.

    • The application must be submitted to the County Commission.
    • This source does not establish a general residential building-permit process.
    “Application -- Must be submitted to County Commission - mcdonald@sos.mo.gov”

Missouri rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Installation of a manufactured home on the owner's property in Missouri, including unincorporated McDonald County.

    • The person must install the manufactured home on his or her property.
    • The installation must be for the person's own occupancy.
    • The exemption is from the state manufactured-home installer license requirement; it does not establish a general exemption from septic, floodplain, utility, or other applicable requirements.
    • A direct agent of a licensee may also qualify when working under the licensee's supervision and within the licensee's job scope; the licensed installer remains responsible for supervising such agents.
    “A license to install manufactured homes is not required for a person who installs a manufactured home [...] for his or her own occupancy”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater treatment systems statewide in Missouri.

    • DHSS administers minimum standards and permits through DHSS, local contract authorities, or local authorities operating under ordinance.
    • County or city governments may adopt standards stricter than the state standard.
    • DNR regulates lagoons serving anything other than single-family residences, systems discharging to surface waters, systems treating flows greater than 3,000 gallons per day and dispersing through soil absorption systems, and industrial wastewater systems.
    • DNR approval is required for subdivisions, mobile home parks, and campgrounds when OWTS use is planned.

    domestic wastewater flow threshold: <= 3000 gallons per day (DNR regulates systems with flows greater than 3,000 gallons per day when wastewater is dispersed through soil treatment or absorption systems)

    “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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Mixed — Missouri onsite wastewater systems, including systems located in McDonald County.
      “In Missouri, different state and local agencies are responsible for regulating wastewater treatment systems.”
    • 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.”
  • 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
    • Limited — Installing or repairing most onsite wastewater treatment systems in Missouri, including systems in McDonald County unless an applicable exemption or different authority rule applies.
      “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. The first step of the permitting process is to determine the agency that has permitting authority where the work is being done.”
    • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Inspection or evaluation of an onsite wastewater treatment system before a Missouri real-estate transaction under the state rule.
      “Does the law require an inspection/evaluation of an OWTS prior to a real estate transaction? No. However, if a lender or buyer requests an inspection/evaluation, it must be conducted by a licensed individual. Some counties may require an onsite system inspection/evaluation for every real estate transaction. Check with the local permitting authority.”
    • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Use of onsite wastewater treatment systems where central sewer service is unavailable, including qualifying properties in McDonald County.
      “In Missouri, where central sewer service is not available, homeowners and small business owners use various types of onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS). An OWTS is a system that uses natural processes and mechanical components to collect, treat and disperse wastewater from single dwellings or other buildings or structures.”
    • 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”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Water well construction or repair in Missouri, including McDonald County.
      “A non-restricted water well installation permit is required to construct or repair a water well in Missouri. A non-restricted pump installation permit is required to install or replace a pump in a water well. A non-restricted pump installation permit is also needed to install or repair the plumbing and electrical lines from the well to the point of entry in the structure. A restricted water well or pump installation permit is required for someone to contract these activities or to direct the installation. Landowners may install their own well or pump without a permit pursuant to the above mentioned law and rules.”
    • 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.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — Farm buildings and farm structures in McDonald County, including their erection, maintenance, repair, alteration, or extension, to the extent a county fire protection or fire prevention ordinance would otherwise impose regulations or require permits.
      “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 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”
  • 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.”
  • 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.

  • Inspections — Building inspections for construction in unincorporated McDonald County, Missouri.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Connection to public water or sewer utilities in McDonald County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental or transient lodging use in McDonald County.

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 McDonald County, Missouri

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

McDonald County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: elevated current hazard exposure.

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

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

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

Living in an RV on your own land in McDonald County is limited to specific cases: Recreational vehicles placed on sites within all unnumbered and numbered A zones and AE zones on the community's Flood Insurance Rate Map in McDonald County. The recreational vehicle must be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, or be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the permitting, elevation, and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes under the ordinance. 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. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in McDonald County, Missouri?

Land in McDonald County runs about $3,910 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in McDonald County?

McDonald County gets about 46.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 9% of years.

How remote is McDonald County?

A representative private-land location has about 15,831 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,819,712 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 McDonald compares in Missouri

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