Bolthole Index

Perry County, Ohio

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Perry County, Ohio

70Index Score / 100
#4 of 88 in Ohio

In unincorporated Perry County, Ohio, a home needs a Residential Code building permit only where a certified municipal, township or county residential department has jurisdiction; where none does, the owner need not submit plans or request those inspections1. The regional Mid-East Ohio Building Department handles commercial work only2. Townships and villages set zoning, not one county code3; septic permits come from the Perry County Health Department4.

At a glance

Residential building permit
Not required where no certified residential department has jurisdiction; confirm the parcel with its township or village15
Commercial building permit
Required through Mid-East Ohio Building Department; published fees apply67
Zoning
Set by townships and villages (Reading and Thorn Townships and New Lexington have their own); no county-level zoning confirmed38910
Where zoning does not apply
County subdivision rules: 1-acre lots without public sewer, 75-100 ft road setbacks1112
Septic permit
Required through the Perry County Health Department; fee $30713
Private well permit
Required through the Perry County Health Department14
RV or tiny-home living
Private-lot occupancy unconfirmed; campground rules do not settle it15
County-road driveway
Perry County Driveway Permit required16

Who to call

Building permits

Mid-East Ohio Building Department

Commercial building plan approvals and inspections in its Perry County service area; not one-, two- or three-family homes

(740) 455-7905

22 North 5th Street, Zanesville, Ohio

Online permits →

Health department

Perry County Health Department

Home sewage treatment system approvals and private water system permits for Perry County

740-342-5179

healthdepartment@perrycountyohio.gov

2235 OH-13, New Lexington, OH 43764

Online permits →

Roads & driveways

Perry County Engineer's Office

Driveway permits for installations on Perry County roads

(740) 342-2191

2645 Old Somerset Road, New Lexington, Ohio 43764

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 14, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Perry 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 Perry County, Ohio?

Ohio requires a homeowner to submit plans to the building department having jurisdiction before construction, but only where a certified municipal, township or county residential department exists for the parcel17. Where none has jurisdiction, the owner is not required to submit construction documents, seek approvals, request inspections or obtain a Residential Code certificate of occupancy118. Where a certified department does cover the parcel, inspections are required and the home cannot be occupied until a certificate of occupancy or completion is issued1920. We could not confirm which Perry County parcels, if any, fall under such a department, so ask the parcel's township trustees or village office. Zoning, septic, well, floodplain and driveway approvals remain separate21.

Who issues building permits in Perry County, Ohio?

Mid-East Ohio Building Department is state certified for commercial work and has no authority over one-, two- or three-family homes2223. It issues plan approvals and inspections for Ohio Building Code work in Perry County, with applications submitted online and a 3% Board of Building Standards fee67. It has no authority over zoning24. Ohio certifies each local department for only the code type it enforces, so the commercial office cannot answer a residential question25. The Perry County Health Department separately handles septic and private-water permits264, and the Perry County Engineer issues driveway permits for county roads27.

Does Perry County, Ohio have zoning, and who sets it?

Zoning in Perry County is set township by township and by villages, not by one county code3. Reading Township has its own zoning resolution9, Thorn Township's zoning inspector enforces its resolution8, and the Village of New Lexington has its own planning and zoning code10. We could not confirm a complete list of zoned townships; the County Engineer's office can supply one3. Where no zoning is in effect, county subdivision rules set a single-family lot at 150 feet of frontage and 1 acre (43,560 square feet) without public sewer, or 80 feet and 14,000 square feet with it11. Residential subdivisions outside zoning need setbacks of 100 feet from state and federal route centerlines and 75 feet from county and township road centerlines12. We could not confirm a minimum home size or height limit; ask the township3.

How do septic permits work in Perry County, Ohio?

The Perry County Health Department approves individual sewage systems where public sewer is unavailable, including inside Reading Township's zoning26428. Off-grid sewage is not permit-free29. Complete a site evaluation, get a design from a registered installer or compliant designer, and use a Perry County registered installer13. The permit costs $307 and is valid for one year13; the department inspects the system 12 months after finalization30. Only 7.4% of Perry County soils are rated not limited for a conventional drain field, so expect an engineered system and make septic feasibility a purchase contingency31.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Perry County, Ohio?

We could not confirm a Perry County rule allowing long-term RV or tiny-home living on a private parcel; ask the parcel's township zoning inspector. Ohio's campground rules cover licensed parks and camps, not an ordinary private lot15. A temporary campground involves five or more units, no more than 21 days a year and no more than 7 consecutive days per stay, so it does not answer one family living on its own land32. A permanently sited manufactured home must be allowed where a township permits single-family homes, subject to uniform district requirements33. A homeowner may install one for personal occupancy on owned land outside a manufactured home park, within the state's installer conditions34.

Building a home in Perry County, Ohio: steps in order

  1. Identify the township or village and ask its trustees or office which zoning and which certified residential building authority, if any, applies325.
  1. If dividing land in unincorporated Perry County, take the plan to the Perry County Planning Commission before transferring lots35.
  1. Check floodplain status; construction in mapped Zone A needs a permit36.
  1. Get the Health Department site evaluation and septic design, then apply for the septic permit13.
  1. Apply to the Health Department before developing or altering a private well14.
  1. Get the County Engineer's driveway permit if access enters a county road27.
  1. If a certified residential department has jurisdiction, follow its plan approval, inspections and certificate of occupancy; otherwise those Residential Code steps do not apply371.

What should you check before buying land in Perry County?

Start with septic feasibility, since only 7.4% of soils are rated not limited for a conventional drain field31. Confirm the township or village, its current zoning, whether any certified residential department covers the parcel, and mapped flood hazard336. A new private water system permit costs $490 and an alteration $19014. A barn or farm building may avoid the state building code only after a township or county zoning inspector issues a zoning certificate declaring agricultural use38. About 61.6% of the county is wooded and 55.3% has a slope of 15% or less, which shapes driveway and building-site layout3940. The median property-tax bill is about $1,656 a year41.

Watch-outs

  • Mid-East Ohio's Perry County service is commercial only; confirm with the township or village whether a certified residential department covers the parcel before relying on the no-department exception1.
  • We could not confirm a complete list of zoned townships; ask the parcel's township or village directly, because zoning can restrict RVs, home size and uses3.
  • Only 7.4% of Perry County soils are rated not limited for a conventional drain field31.

Sources

  1. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  2. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  3. Minor Subdivision / Lot Split Application, quoted and re-checked
  4. Perry County, Ohio | Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  5. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  6. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  7. Mid-East Ohio Building Department - Ohio - Muskingum County, quoted and re-checked
  8. Thorn Township Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  9. Reading Township: Reading Township Zoning Resolution, Perry County, Ohio (amended 2018, effective January 1, 2019) (Perry County), quoted and re-checked
  10. Village of New Lexington: Codified Ordinances of New Lexington, Ohio - Overview (Perry County), quoted and re-checked
  11. Perry County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  12. Perry County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  13. 2026 Home Sewage Installation Requirements & Procedures, quoted and re-checked
  14. Private Water Systems | Perry County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  15. Section 3729.05 | Annual license required - inspection - proof of fire safety and code compliance, quoted and re-checked
  16. Forms – Perry County Engineer, quoted and re-checked
  17. Ohio Revised Code Section 3791.04 | Submission of plan - approvals - prohibition - fine., quoted and re-checked
  18. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  19. Ohio Residential Code, Section 108, Inspection Process, quoted and re-checked
  20. Ohio Residential Code, Section 111, Certificate of Occupancy and Certificate of Completion, quoted and re-checked
  21. Rule 4101:8-1-01 | Administration, quoted and re-checked
  22. Mid-East Ohio Building Department (muskingumcountyoh.gov)
  23. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  24. Mid-East Ohio Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  25. Section 3781.10 - Ohio Revised Code, quoted and re-checked
  26. Perry County Health Department (health.perrycountyohio.gov)
  27. Perry County Engineer's Office (perrycountyengineer.com)
  28. Reading Township: Reading Township Zoning Resolution, Perry County, Ohio (amended 2018, effective January 1, 2019) (Perry County), quoted and re-checked
  29. Sewage Programs | Perry County Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  30. 2026 Home Sewage Installation Requirements & Procedures, quoted and re-checked
  31. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Rule 3701-26-01 | Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  33. Section 519.212 | Location of permanently sited manufactured home, quoted and re-checked
  34. Rule 4781-8-05.1 | Installation performed by a homeowner, quoted and re-checked
  35. Perry County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  36. Rule 1501:22-1-04 | Floodplain management criteria, quoted and re-checked
  37. Ohio Administrative Code Rule 4101:8-1-01 | Administration, quoted and re-checked
  38. Section 3781.061 | Exemption for building or structure used in agriculture, quoted and re-checked
  39. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  40. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 14, 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 5 of its 6 neighbors, Perry County has no countywide zoning.

RulePerry CountyFairfield CountyHocking CountyMuskingum CountyMorgan CountyLicking CountyAthens County
Building permitNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredRequiredLimited
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoYesNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.Zanesville-Muskingum County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.Athens City-County Health Dept.

County locator

Perry County in Ohio

70
County map
Perry County highlighted among the Ohio counties · colored by Index score

How Perry County scores

Seclusion39100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency69100% ev.
Admin Boringness8190% ev.
Durability84100% ev.
Property Autonomy35100% ev.
Carry Cost74100% 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 →

$230kTypical home
0.9%Property tax
$6,172Land / acre
42.7"Annual rain
2.1% of yrsSevere drought
3.3 / yr (+3.2)Mid-century 100°F days
11.6 daysMid-century dry spell
1.61" (+9.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.92×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,277Home insurance / yr
0.7% / yrInsurance growth
1.15%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
49,483People within 30 min
3,852,566People within 2 hr
69,214Radius comparison (15 mi)
87.1People / sq mi
8.7%Federal land
55.3%Land at 15% slope or less
7.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
17,640 acWorkable land screen
61.6%Wooded land
53.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
51.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Perry County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Not yet researched: Bearfield Township · Clayton Township · Coal Township · Village of Corning · Village of Crooksville · Village of Glenford · Harrison Township · Village of Hemlock · Hopewell Township · Jackson Township · Village of Junction City · Madison Township · Monday Creek Township · Monroe Township · Village of New Lexington · Village of New Straitsville · Pike Township · Pleasant Township · Village of Rendville · Village of Roseville · Salt Lick Township · Village of Shawnee · Village of Somerset · Thorn Township · Village of Thornville

Answers from the rulebook for Perry County

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

Perry County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Commercial and other nonresidential building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department jurisdiction, including Perry County locations identified by that department.

    • The department is certified for commercial building code enforcement only.
    • The department does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • Jurisdictional boundaries and separately certified local authorities may affect applicability.
    “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Perry County within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department service region, excluding one-, two-, and three-family dwellings/homes.
      “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County. There are five municipalities in Belmont County that are excluded. Please see the Jurisdiction List for those areas. [...] This department does NOT have authority over one, two, or three family dwellings/homes.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Commercial building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code within Perry County jurisdictions served by the Mid-East Ohio Building Department.

    • The department is state certified for commercial building enforcement.
    • The department does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • The department has no authority over zoning.
    • The page lists Perry County as part of the department's regional jurisdiction; specific municipal exclusions should be checked in the department's jurisdiction list.
    “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. [...] a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Commercial building-code enforcement and plan approvals in Perry County through the Mid-East Ohio Building Department; the department's listed jurisdiction includes Perry County and specified Perry County municipalities.
      “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. [...] This department does NOT have authority over one, two, or three family dwellings/homes.”
    • Partial — Commercial building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Perry County within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department's jurisdiction.
      “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County. [...] This department does NOT have authority over one, two, or three family dwellings/homes.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Commercial and other nonresidential building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department jurisdiction, including Perry County locations identified by that department.

    • The department is certified for commercial building code enforcement only.
    • The department does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • Separately certified municipal, township, county, or state authorities may have jurisdiction over particular locations or building types.
    “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Perry County within the Mid-East Ohio Building Department service region, excluding one-, two-, and three-family dwellings/homes.
      “The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County. [...] This department does NOT have authority over one, two, or three family dwellings/homes.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Land-use zoning across Perry County, aggregated from township-level administration and applicable municipal rules.

    • The official county engineer application requires applicants to obtain a township zoning permit from the applicable township zoning inspector.
    • The source directs applicants to contact the county engineer for a list of zoned townships and zoning inspectors, so zoning coverage varies by township.
    • The cited source does not establish the current zoning status or dimensional standards of every township or municipality.
    • County subdivision, health, sewage, and other applicable rules may still apply.
    “If the application for a minor subdivision is located in a zoned township, the township zoning inspector will be consulted and provide comments.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots created through subdivisions in unincorporated Perry County when no zoning is in effect.

    • If applicable zoning regulations impose greater or different lot-area or frontage requirements, those zoning requirements apply.
    • For single-family development with public sewer unavailable, the minimum is 150 feet of frontage and 43,560 square feet (1 acre).
    • For single-family development with public sewer available, the minimum is 80 feet of frontage and 14,000 square feet.
    • For two-family and multi-family development, the minimums are 80 feet and 30,000 square feet with public sewer available, or 200 feet and 65,340 square feet (1.5 acres) when public sewer is unavailable.
    • For commercial and industrial development, the minimums are 80 feet and 20,000 square feet with public sewer available, or 200 feet and 65,340 square feet (1.5 acres) when public sewer is unavailable.
    • The Planning Commission may require larger lot widths and areas because of unusual soil conditions or other physical factors that may impair neighborhood health and safety.
    • Flag lots require at least 60 feet of road frontage and must meet the applicable minimum lot areas.

    single-family frontage with public sewer: 80 ft · single-family area with public sewer: 14000 sq ft · single-family frontage without public sewer: 150 ft · single-family area without public sewer: 43560 sq ft (1 acre) · two-family or multi-family frontage with public sewer: 80 ft · two-family or multi-family area with public sewer: 30000 sq ft · two-family or multi-family frontage without public sewer: 200 ft · two-family or multi-family area without public sewer: 65340 sq ft (1.5 acres) · commercial or industrial frontage with public sewer: 80 ft · commercial or industrial area with public sewer: 20000 sq ft · commercial or industrial frontage without public sewer: 200 ft · commercial or industrial area without public sewer: 65340 sq ft (1.5 acres)

    “No lot shall have less area or frontage than is required by any zoning regulations applying to the area in which it is located. If no zoning is in effect, the following minimum lot frontage and areas shall be met. Development Public Sewer Available Public Sewer Unavailable Single Family Frontage: 80 ft. Area: 14,000 sq. ft. Frontage: 150 ft. Area: 43,560 sq. ft. (1 ac.) Two Family Multi-Family Frontage: 80 ft. Area: 30,000 sq. ft. Frontage: 200 ft. Area: 65,340 sq. ft. (1.5 ac.) Commercial Industrial Frontage: 80 ft. Area: 20,000 sq. ft. Frontage: 200 ft. Area: 65,340 sq. ft. (1.5 ac.)”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Residential subdivisions in unincorporated Perry County that are not under zoning control.

    • The rule applies where a subdivision is not under zoning control and is to be used for residential purposes.
    • The subdivider must establish setback lines in accordance with the character of the development.
    • The setback is measured from the applicable road centerline, except that cul-de-sac setbacks use a 100-foot radius measured from the center of the road extended.
    • Road frontage is measured at the front lot line.

    setback from state or federal route centerline: 100 ft · setback from county or township road centerline: 75 ft · cul-de-sac setback radius: 100 ft (measured from the center of the road extended)

    “Where a subdivision is not under zoning control and is to be used for residential purposes, the subdivider shall establish setback lines in accordance with the character of the development. The setback line shall be 100 feet from the centerline of state and federal routes, 75 feet from the centerline of county and township roads, and 100 feet radius measured from the center of the road extended for all cul-de-sacs. Road frontage shall be measured at the front lot line.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Residential subdivisions not under zoning control in unincorporated Perry County.
      “Where a subdivision is not under zoning control and is to be used for residential purposes, the subdivider shall establish setback lines in accordance with the character of the development. The setback line shall be 100 feet from the centerline of state and federal routes, 75 feet from the centerline of county and township roads, and 100 feet radius measured from the center of the road extended for all cul-de-sacs.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Home sewage treatment systems in Perry County where public or central sewage works are not provided.

    • Individual sewage treatment systems require approval by the Perry County Health Department.
    • Approved wastewater systems must comply with state regulations.
    • The health department must ensure that nuisances do not endanger Perry County residents.
    “individual sewage treatment systems must be installed with approval by the health department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Home sewage treatment systems and private sewage regulation in Perry County.
      “This program oversees home sewage treatment systems; private water systems;”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New or altered household sewage treatment systems in Perry County, particularly where public or central sewage works are not provided.

    • A site evaluation must be completed before the septic installation permit process.
    • A design plan from a registered installer or compliant designer is required.
    • The permit fee is $307.00.
    • The permit is valid for one year.
    • A Perry County Registered Installer must be used.
    • An operation permit is issued with the septic permit.
    • After installation and approval, an as-built drawing packet complying with OAC 3701-29-10 must be submitted.
    • The system must comply with OAC Chapter 3701-29 and permit conditions.

    septic permit fee: 307 USD · permit validity: 1 year

    “Submit a completed septic permit to install and fee of $307.00 to the Health Department.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Finalized household sewage treatment systems installed under the Perry County Health Department process.

    • The system must first be completed and approved.
    • The 12-month inspection occurs after the system is finalized.

    inspection timing: 12 months after finalization

    “A 12-month inspection will be performed after the system is finalized.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Individual or off-grid sewage treatment systems where public or central sewage works are not provided in Perry County.

    • Individual sewage treatment systems must be installed with health-department approval.
    • Approved systems must comply with state regulations.
    • The health department must prevent nuisances that endanger public health.
    “individual sewage treatment systems must be installed with approval by the health department.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Development and alteration of private water systems, including private wells, in Perry County.

    • The Perry County Health Department oversees the Private Water Program.
    • Systems are inspected for compliance with state laws and rules.
    • Water samples are collected and sent to laboratories for bacteriological analysis.

    new private water system permit fee: 490 USD · private water system alteration fee: 190 USD · private water system sealing fee: 70 USD

    “The Health Department oversees the Private Water Program and issues permits for the development and alteration of private water systems.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    All subdivisions of land in the unincorporated areas of Perry County, including divisions by deeds, land contracts, or leases resulting in creation of a lot, and subdivisions with private streets.

    • Any person or group proposing to divide, sell, exchange, or improve land in the unincorporated area must submit plans to the Perry County Planning Commission.
    • No subdivision plat may be recorded or have validity until approved as prescribed by the regulations.
    • Land may not be transferred or sold by reference to a subdivision plan or plat before approval and recording; a metes-and-bounds description does not exempt the transaction.
    • Violations may constitute a public nuisance and may result in forfeitures of $100 to $1,000 per offense per day; final plat approval may be withheld until fees and fines are paid.
    • A County Recorder who records a contrary plat may forfeit $100 to $500.
    • An owner or agent transferring land outside a municipal corporation before recording may forfeit $100 to $500 for each lot, parcel, or tract sold; metes-and-bounds descriptions do not exempt the seller.
    • The Board of County Commissioners establishes the schedule of fees, charges, expenses, and collection procedure; the schedule is filed with the County Commissioners and may be amended only by the Board.
    • Where a local political subdivision has adopted subdivision regulations, the Perry County Planning Commission may serve in an advisory capacity if requested; a qualifying city exercising extraterritorial jurisdiction may have final plat approval subject to the stated exception for Perry County Engineer provisions.

    violation forfeiture: 100 USD per offense per day (not more than $1,000) · County Recorder forfeiture: 100 USD (not more than $500) · unrecorded transfer forfeiture: 100 USD per lot, parcel, or tract sold (not more than $500)

    “These regulations shall be applicable to all subdivisions of land [...] in the unincorporated areas of Perry County.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New private or commercial driveway installations and approaches providing private access to Perry County highways.

    • The requirement applies to driveway installations on County Roads only.
    • The proposed construction location must be clearly marked for county inspection.
    • The property owner is responsible for installation, backfilling, covering, and maintenance of the culvert pipe.
    • Backfill and cover must use 411 Berm material with a minimum of 4 inches of cover over the pipe.
    • Catch basins are required for every 40 feet of culvert pipe.
    • Driveway surfaces must be paved and graded to prevent mud from being carried onto the road surface.
    • Eight inches of crushed stone is considered minimum construction for residential driveways.
    • The driveway opening must maximize sight distance; if sight distance is inadequate, an acknowledgment must be signed.

    catch-basin spacing: per 40 feet of culvert pipe · minimum pipe cover: >= 4 inches · residential driveway crushed-stone construction: >= 8 inches (The source describes this as considered minimum construction.)

    “Perry County Driveway Permit is required for driveway installations on County Roads only”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Commercial building-code plan approvals and related inspections administered by the Mid-East Ohio Building Department in Perry County.

    • The department is a commercial building department and does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • Fees for special situations are determined by the building official.
    • Payment is due at submittal.
    • The fee schedule states that a 3% Board of Building Standards fee applies.

    Board of Building Standards fee: 3 percent

    “FEE SCHEDULE (to be completed by Applicant) MID-EAST OHIO BUILDING DEPARTMENT [...] FEES FOR SPECIAL SITUATIONS SHALL BE DETERMINED BY THE BUILDING OFFICIAL [...] Board of Building Standards fee - 3%”
  • Permit processPartial

    Commercial building-plan approvals, permits, inspections, and online submission in the Mid-East Ohio Building Department service area within Perry County, including the listed Perry County municipalities and areas under the department's jurisdiction.

    • The published process is for commercial building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code; it does not establish a countywide process for every permit category.
    • The department does not have authority over one-, two-, or three-family dwellings/homes.
    • Applications are submitted online through the Building or Sign Application links, with plans/drawings and payment submitted through the application process.
    • Additional fees may be required and can be paid through the online payment portal.
    • Credit-card payments incur a 3% fee charged by the card carrier.
    • The department has no authority over zoning; zoning requirements may be administered separately.
    • The jurisdiction list identifies Perry County municipalities served by the department and identifies Hemlock and Rendville as municipalities under state jurisdiction.

    credit-card processing fee: 3 percent (charged by the credit card carrier)

    “The Mid-East Ohio Building Department is a state certified commercial building department. The department issues plan approvals (permits) and inspects all building activity regulated by the Ohio Building Code in Muskingum County as well as a region which includes five additional counties: Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, and Perry County. [...] This department does NOT have authority over one, two, or three family dwellings/homes. [...] Submit your Building or Sign Application by choosing the appropriate application below. There is a link at the end of the application for you to securely submit your payment and plans/drawings.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    There is no countywide zoning; land-use zoning in Perry County is handled at the township level under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 519, and only some townships (e.g., Jackson Township) have adopted zoning resolutions.

    Perry County - Jackson Township Zoning Resolution ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Ohio rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Electrical and heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning work performed as contracting within an Ohio county; the statute authorizes, but does not itself impose, county licensing rules.

    • A board of county commissioners may adopt licensing rules by resolution for electrical and HVAC contractors not required to hold a valid and unexpired Chapter 4740 license.
    • County rules may be enforced in unincorporated areas and in municipalities that contract with the county for enforcement.
    • A county rule may require examinations, technical-skill demonstrations, fees, and additional licensing requirements.
    • A county board may accept a valid and unexpired Chapter 4740 license for construction, replacement, maintenance, or repair of one-, two-, or three-family dwellings or incidental accessory structures.
    • The statute does not establish a statewide owner-builder electrical or HVAC contractor-license exemption; county and municipal rules must be checked for the specific location.
    “Each board of county commissioners may adopt, by resolution, rules establishing standards and providing for the licensing of electrical and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning contractors who are not required to hold a valid and unexpired license pursuant to Chapter 4740. of the Revised Code.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — A homeowner installing a manufactured home for the homeowner's own occupancy, including in Perry County, Ohio.
      “a homeowner may install a manufactured home for the person's own occupancy if the manufactured home is located on property that the person owns”
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner constructing or altering a residential building in Perry County or elsewhere in Ohio where no certified municipal, township, or county residential building department has jurisdiction.
      “If no municipal, township, or county building department is certified [...] has jurisdiction, the owner is not required to make submission of construction documents”
    • Conditional — Owners constructing one-, two-, or three-family residential buildings in an Ohio jurisdiction where no certified municipal, township, or county residential building department has jurisdiction.
      “If no certified municipal, township, or county building department certified for residential buildings pursuant to division (E) of section 3781.10 of the Revised Code has jurisdiction, the owner is not required to make the submissions described in division (A)(1) of this section.”
    • Conditional — An owner-builder constructing, erecting, altering, or equipping a building covered by Ohio Revised Code section 3781.06, including residential buildings, where a certified municipal, township, or county building department has jurisdiction.
      “No owner shall proceed with the construction, erection, alteration, or equipment of any building until the plans or drawings, specifications, and data have been approved as this section requires, or the industrialized unit inspected at the point of origin.”
    • Conditional — An owner performing contractor-regulated construction, improvement, or renovation on the owner's own primary residential building in Ohio.
      “(F) "Construction project" means a construction project involving a building or structure subject to Chapter 3781. of the Revised Code and the rules adopted under that chapter, but not an industrialized unit or a residential building as defined in section 3781.06 of the Revised Code.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Residential buildings and structures subject to the Residential Code of Ohio in certified residential building jurisdictions, including new residential buildings and residential alterations or additions.

    • A residential building official must have jurisdiction and issue the approval.
    • A certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion is required before occupancy.
    • Unaffected portions of an existing building may continue to be occupied if the residential building official determines they can be occupied safely until completion of the work.
    • Partial occupancy may be approved if the official determines the space can be safely occupied without endangering life or public welfare.
    • Time-limited occupancy requires no pending violations or orders, inspection and investigation establishing that the use does not endanger public safety and welfare, temporary approval for the alternative purpose, and a certificate stating special conditions and the time limit.
    • Temporary structures intended for use not exceeding 180 days require a certificate of occupancy for temporary structures; extensions may be granted for demonstrated cause.
    • Existing residential buildings may receive a certificate on written request if no violations or orders are pending and prior occupancy is established after inspection and investigation.

    temporary structures maximum occupancy period: <= 180 days (The residential building official may grant extensions for demonstrated cause.)

    “No residential building or structure, in whole or in part, shall be used or occupied until the residential building official has issued an approval in the form of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion in compliance with this section.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Residential buildings or structures governed by the Residential Code of Ohio and within a certified residential building department jurisdiction.
      “No residential building or structure, in whole or in part, shall be used or occupied until the residential building official has issued an approval in the form of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion in compliance with this section.”
    • Not required (with conditions) — Certificates of occupancy required by the Ohio Residential Code for residential buildings in Perry County when no certified residential building department has jurisdiction.
      “the owner is not required to make submission of construction documents, seek approvals, request inspections, or obtain certificates of occupancy required in this Chapter.”
    • Required — One-, two-, and three-family dwellings and structures in Ohio, including Perry County parcels where a certified municipal, township, or county residential building department has jurisdiction.
      “No residential building or structure [...] shall be used or occupied until [...] approval”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Township zoning regulation of height for agricultural buildings or structures on lots greater than one acre but not greater than five acres in qualifying platted subdivisions or qualifying areas of fifteen or more contiguous lots.

    • The local regulation must arise under a township zoning resolution or amendment.
    • The subdivision or area must meet the statutory qualification in section 519.21(B).
    • The statute does not provide a statewide numeric height limit.
    • Township zoning may not regulate agriculture, agricultural buildings or structures, or dairying and animal and poultry husbandry on lots greater than five acres under division (B).

    lot size lower threshold: > 1 acre · lot size upper threshold: <= 5 acres

    “Buildings or structures incident to the use of land for agricultural purposes [...] height;”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary camping involving five or more recreational vehicles, dependent recreational vehicles, portable camping units, or combinations thereof on a tract in Perry County and elsewhere in Ohio.

    • The temporary campground definition applies only when the tract is used for no more than twenty-one total days per calendar year.
    • Each period of use may not exceed seven consecutive days or parts thereof.
    • The temporary park-camp must be licensed before operation unless a statutory exemption applies.

    maximum annual temporary campground use: <= 21 days per calendar year · maximum single temporary campground period: <= 7 consecutive days · minimum units for temporary campground definition: >= 5 units (Units may be recreational vehicles, dependent recreational vehicles, portable camping units, or any combination.)

    “twenty-one days per calendar year [...] parking five or more [...] for one or more periods of time that do not exceed seven consecutive days”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    A permanently sited manufactured home in any Ohio township zoning district where a single-family home is permitted.

    • The home must qualify as a permanently sited manufactured home under Ohio law.
    • The township may require compliance with zoning requirements uniformly imposed on all single-family residences in the district.
    • The township may not impose minimum roof-pitch requirements on the permanently sited manufactured home under the cited statutory exception.
    • The rule does not prevent prohibition of travel trailers, park trailers, mobile homes, or manufactured homes that do not qualify as permanently sited manufactured homes in residential districts or zones.
    • Private deed restrictions may prohibit manufactured homes or travel trailers.
    “sections 519.01 to 519.25 of the Revised Code do not confer on any township zoning commission [...] the authority to prohibit or restrict the location”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Installation, use, and occupancy of new manufactured homes on private property or in manufactured home parks in Perry County and elsewhere in Ohio.
      “shall apply to the installation, construction, use and occupancy, and location of every new manufactured home installed in the state on private property”
    • Limited — Occupancy of manufactured homes installed in Ohio and regulated under Chapter 4781 of the Revised Code and implementing rules.
      “Except as provided in paragraph (C) of this rule, no manufactured home shall be occupied until the inspector has issued the inspection seal.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Disposal of sewage where an existing publicly owned or regional sanitary sewer is accessible and available.

    • The sewer connection may not conflict with an areawide waste-treatment plan, approved regional sewage-service and treatment plan, or connection ban.
    • The receiving disposal system must have or be expected to have capacity to collect and treat the sewage.
    • For an existing structure, any part of the structure generating waste must be within 300 feet of the nearest sanitary-sewer right-of-way boundary.
    • For a proposed structure outside a larger common plan, any lot property line must be within 300 feet.
    • For two or more proposed structures, the threshold is 200 feet multiplied by the number of proposed structures, up to 5,000 feet.
    • The director may grant an exemption when technical, financial, environmental, legal, or physical barriers prevent connection and the alternative will not adversely affect human health or the environment.
    • When a sewer later becomes accessible and available, a non-public or non-regional disposal system must generally be abandoned and connection made within three years unless the director authorizes another timeframe.

    existing structure sewer-distance threshold: <= 300 feet (Measured to the nearest boundary of the sanitary-sewer right-of-way.) · proposed structure sewer-distance threshold: <= 300 feet (Measured from any property line of the lot.) · multiple proposed structures threshold: 200 feet multiplied by the number of proposed structures (Maximum distance is 5,000 feet.) · connection deadline after accessibility becomes available: 3 years (Unless an alternative timeframe is authorized by the director.)

    “Connection into existing publicly owned or regional sanitary sewers is required for the disposal of sewage when said sewers are accessible and available.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Buildings or structures incident to agricultural use of the land, and a specific building or structure declared by a county or township zoning inspector to be used in agriculture.

    • The exemption in section 3781.06 applies to buildings or structures incident to agricultural use of the land.
    • The buildings or structures must not be used in the business of retail trade.
    • A building or structure is not considered used in the business of retail trade if fifty per cent or more of gross income from sales of products in the building or structure comes from products produced or raised in a normal crop year on farms owned or operated by the seller.
    • Under section 3781.061, a county zoning inspector under section 303.16 or township zoning inspector under section 519.16 must issue a zoning certificate declaring the specific building or structure is to be used in agriculture for the additional exemption described there.
    • The cited section 3781.06 is effective January 1, 2025; section 3781.061 is effective October 17, 2019.

    retail-sales agricultural-product threshold: >= 50 percent of gross income (Products must be produced or raised in a normal crop year on farms owned or operated by the seller.)

    “issues a zoning certificate that declares a specific building or structure is to be used in agriculture, such building is not subject to sections”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Buildings or structures incident to agricultural use of land in Ohio, including Perry County.
      “incident to the use for agricultural purposes [...] provided those buildings or structures are not used in the business of retail trade.”
    • Conditional — A specific agricultural building or structure in Ohio where the applicable county or township zoning inspector issues the required zoning certificate.
      “issues a zoning certificate that declares a specific building or structure is to be used in agriculture, such building is not subject to [...] 3791.04”
    • Available (with conditions) — Qualifying land divisions involving parcels used only for agricultural purposes in Ohio, including Perry County, under R.C. 711.133.
      “Rules adopted under this section shall exempt from the approval requirements of this section parcels of land to be used only for agricultural or personal recreational purposes.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Qualifying parcel divisions processed under rules adopted pursuant to Ohio Revised Code section 711.133.
      “Rules adopted under this section shall exempt from the approval requirements of this section parcels of land to be used only for agricultural”
    • Available (with conditions) — Buildings or structures incident to agricultural use of the land in Ohio.
      “incident to the use for agricultural purposes [...] provided those buildings or structures are not used in the business of retail trade.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Proposed construction and other development within Zone A on an FHBM or FIRM in Perry County, including placement of manufactured homes.

    • The rule applies when the county or municipal corporation has been notified under National Flood Insurance Program requirements that it contains areas of special flood hazards (A zones), and the applicable map lacks an identified floodway or coastal high hazard area and lacks water-surface-elevation data.
    • The county or municipal corporation must review required federal and state permits, review building sites for flood safety, and apply the listed construction, utilities, sewage, elevation, watercourse, and manufactured-home requirements.
    • The Perry County EMA page states that EMA houses floodplain management and identifies Jessica Dodson-Pierce as Floodplain Administrator, appointed January 8, 2024.
    “When a county or municipal corporation has been notified, pursuant to the requirements of the national flood insurance program, that it contains areas of special flood hazards (A zones) by the publication of a FHBM or FIRM, but where such maps neither identify a floodway or coastal high hazard area, nor contain water surface elevation data, the county or municipal corporation shall: (1) Require permits for all proposed construction and other developments including the placement of manufactured homes, within Zone A on the FHBM or FIRM;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Development in a recreational vehicle park, recreation camp, combined park-camp, or temporary park-camp located within a one-hundred-year flood plain.
      “No person shall cause development to occur within any portion of a recreational vehicle park, recreation camp, combined park-camp, or temporary park-camp that is located within a one-hundred-year flood plain in an unincorporated area unless the person first obtains a permit therefor from the board of county commissioners of the county in which the development is to occur in accordance with the flood plain management resolution of the county adopted under section 307.37 of the Revised Code.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Roadside camping at designated Ohio state forests along public roads maintained by the division of forestry.

    • Permitted only at designated state forests, along public roads maintained by the division of forestry, during certain legally established hunting seasons.
    • The chief of the division of forestry must authorize the applicable season.
    • Only self-contained camping units meeting Rule 1501:3-3-04 are permitted unless restroom facilities are available.
    • Vehicles must be parked sufficiently far off the roadway not to present a hazard and may not block roads, trails, or gated access areas.
    • Other restrictions in Rule 1501:3-3-06 apply.
    “Roadside camping is permitted at designated state forests, along public roads maintained by the division of forestry, during certain legally established hunting seasons as authorized by the chief of the division of forestry.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy or parking of recreational vehicles in recreational vehicle parks, recreation camps, combined park-camps, or temporary park-camps in Perry County and elsewhere in Ohio.
      “No recreational vehicle park, recreation camp, combined park-camp, or temporary park-camp shall be maintained or operated in this state without a license.”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary park-camps meeting Ohio's statutory definition and campground licensing requirements.
      “No tract of land shall be permitted for use as a temporary campground for more than twenty-one days in a calendar year.”
    • Limited — Occupancy and placement of recreational vehicles in Ohio-licensed campgrounds and temporary campgrounds.
      “Recreational vehicles or portable camping units shall be parked only on sites that have been verified as complying with plans approved by the director, or in the case of a temporary campground, by the licensor;”
    • Prohibited — Camping in Ohio state forests outside areas, sites, or campgrounds designated by the chief of the division of forestry or an authorized agent.
      “No person shall camp in a state forest except in areas, sites or campgrounds designated by the chief of the division of forestry or authorized agent.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    County commissioners may adopt zoning resolutions regulating building, structures, land uses, and districts or zones in unincorporated territory statewide.

    • The authority is exercised by resolution and must be in accordance with a comprehensive plan.
    • The authority applies to unincorporated territory of the county.
    • The statute begins with the exception phrase “Except as otherwise provided in this section,” so the limitations in ORC Chapter 303 apply.
    • For nonresidential property only, the county may regulate height, bulk, number of stories, size, lot coverage, yards, courts, open spaces, and population density.
    • Agricultural uses and agricultural buildings are subject to the limitations in ORC 303.21; the statute also contains limitations for public utilities, railroads, telecommunications towers, alcoholic-beverage sales, oil and gas drilling, and permanently sited manufactured homes.
    • Activities regulated under ORC Chapters 1513 and 1514 may be regulated only in the interest of public health or safety, and Chapter 1514 activities must be provided for as permitted or conditional uses as specified by ORC 303.02.
    “the board of county commissioners may regulate by resolution, in accordance with a comprehensive plan”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    County commissioners may adopt and enforce local residential building regulations in unincorporated areas and may operate certified county building departments that enforce state residential and nonresidential building codes, accept and approve plans, and conduct inspections.

    • Local residential building regulations may be enforced within the unincorporated area or within districts established in the unincorporated area.
    • A local residential building regulation may not differ from the state residential building code unless it addresses subject matter not addressed by that code or is adopted under ORC 3781.01.
    • An existing structures code must concern subject matter not addressed by, and may not conflict with, the state residential building code.
    • County building departments may enforce state codes only for the types of buildings and subject matters for which they are certified.
    • Certification permits enforcement authority, plan approval, and inspections; the certification application identifies whether it covers residential or nonresidential buildings and whether residential certification covers new construction only or also repair and alteration.
    • The board may adopt flood-hazard, Lake Erie coastal-erosion, and drainage regulations, subject to the statutory limits and exceptions in ORC 307.37.
    • Local regulations, codes, or amendments require public hearings at not fewer than two regular or special board sessions; they take effect on the thirty-first day after adoption.
    • Regulations adopted under ORC 307.37 generally do not affect buildings or structures existing, or under construction, before adoption, except as provided for an existing structures code.
    • The state residential building code is effective as a uniform requirement in areas with a building department certified to enforce it.
    “The board of county commissioners may adopt local residential building regulations governing residential buildings as defined in section 3781.06 of the Revised Code”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Ohio boards of county commissioners adopting and enforcing local residential building regulations in unincorporated county areas, including districts established within those areas, and administering state building codes when certified.
      “The board of county commissioners may adopt local residential building regulations governing residential buildings”

Inside cities and towns in Perry County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Buildings, structures, uses, and lands in the unincorporated area of Thorn Township, Perry County, Ohio.

    • The resolution states that its applicability is subject to the limitations specified in Ohio Revised Code Section 519.211.
    • The resolution identifies adoption on November 5, 1991, and amendments including October 11, 2017; the PDF title page also states 'As of July 11, 2012,' so the compiled document contains inconsistent date references.
    • The Zoning Inspector enforces the resolution and issues zoning certificates when its provisions are met.
    “This Resolution shall be known and may be cited as the Zoning Resolution of Thorn Township, Perry County, Ohio”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In Ohio, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Perry County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your township or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Zoning districts
  • Minimum dwelling size
  • Lot coverage
  • Tiny homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Perry County, Ohio

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

Perry County scores 70/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a durable current and mid-century hazard profile and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop and about 49,483 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Perry County, Ohio?

Perry 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 Perry County Health Department (General Health District). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Perry County, Ohio?

Land in Perry County runs about $6,172 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Perry County?

Perry County gets about 42.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.1% of years.

How remote is Perry County?

A representative private-land location has about 49,483 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,852,566 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 Perry compares in Ohio

Compare side-by-side →See all 88 Ohio counties ranked →