Bolthole Index

Murray County, Oklahoma

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Murray County, Oklahoma

67Index Score / 100
#19 of 77 in Oklahoma

Unincorporated Murray County, Oklahoma has no confirmed county residential building permit program; state law exempts an unincorporated single-family home from the State Fire Marshal permit requirement12. Murray County has no county zoning ordinance, while Davis administers city zoning and requires building permits for tiny-home and manufactured-home installations345. Oklahoma DEQ issues septic authorizations for rural and city properties67.

At a glance

Building permit
No county residential permit program found; State Fire Marshal permit not required for an unincorporated single-family home12
Zoning
No county zoning ordinance on unincorporated land; Davis has city zoning34
Septic permits
Oklahoma DEQ authorization and approval required for a new installation or modification689
RV living
No county zoning rule limits RV use on unincorporated land; other limits (city, flood, septic) can still apply3
Tiny home
No county zoning rule on tiny-home occupancy or minimum size in unincorporated Murray County; septic still required38
Owner-builder
No broad county exemption confirmed; state trade exemptions are limited1011
Domestic well
No state intent-to-drill authorization for a qualifying domestic well12

Who to call

Building permits

Murray County Clerk

First local contact to identify any county land-use, floodplain, access or building approval that may apply to an unincorporated parcel

580-622-5622

clerk@murraycountyok.gov

1001 W. Wyandotte Avenue, Sulphur, Oklahoma 73086

Online permits →

Septic permits

Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality

Authorization to Construct, review and inspection for on-site sewage systems in Murray County

405-702-0100

707 N Robinson Oklahoma City, OK, 73102

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 11, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Murray 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 Murray County, Oklahoma?

Oklahoma gives county building-code and permit authority only to counties above 500,000 people, so we could not confirm a county residential building permit program in unincorporated Murray County; ask the County Clerk to confirm the parcel’s requirements1. Before ordering plans or starting site work, give the Murray County Clerk the parcel location and ask which local approvals apply13. State law does not require a State Fire Marshal permit for a single-family home, duplex, barn, shed or attached carport in an unincorporated county area, although a valid local requirement or another approval may still apply2. Oklahoma has adopted statewide minimum residential and commercial construction codes, and local jurisdictions may impose higher standards14. A usual farm building used for agricultural purposes has a state-law zoning exemption, and the planning-and-zoning act waives its farm-building permit and fee, but those exemptions do not erase unrelated health, environmental or access requirements1516.

Who handles Murray County building permits, and how do you reach them?

For unincorporated Murray County, the County Clerk is the first contact to identify the office responsible for building, land-use, floodplain and county-road questions13. Inside Davis, city building permits are required for the tiny-home and manufactured-home installations covered by its zoning provisions; septic authorization remains with Oklahoma DEQ57. For applicable International Building Code projects outside municipal limits, the State Fire Marshal is the default building-permit authority unless an authorized local office handles review and inspection; unincorporated single-family homes are exempt from that state permit requirement172. State Fire Marshal applications use the OKSFM Accela Citizen Portal, with a stated queue of about 4 to 8 weeks before review begins; inspection requests require at least 7 days’ notice1819.

Does Murray County, Oklahoma have zoning?

Unincorporated Murray County, Oklahoma has no county zoning ordinance, so no county zoning rule sets districts, setbacks, lot coverage, building height or minimum dwelling size3. Inside Davis, city zoning applies instead4. The Davis Planning Commission reviews zoning changes and subdivision plats; the Board of Adjustment interprets zoning regulations and hears variances, special exceptions and appeals20. Oklahoma DEQ still handles on-site sewage authorization inside Davis7. Sulphur publishes a city zoning map, but specific district standards were not confirmed; ask Sulphur City Hall about the address before applying the rural county answer2122.

How do septic permits work in Murray County?

Oklahoma DEQ handles on-site sewage systems in Murray County and assigns each Authorization to Construct to a local environmental specialist based on property location6. Before installing or modifying a system, purchase the authorization and obtain its issuance; DEQ must first review the Report for On-Site Sewage823. Alternative systems also need DEQ approval before installation6. A new or modified system must be inspected and approved by DEQ, or installed, self-inspected and approved by a certified installer, before operation; certified-installer final inspections must reach DEQ within 15 days of completion9. Only 7.7% of Murray County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, making an early site evaluation useful before choosing a house site or septic design24.

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

Because Murray County, Oklahoma has adopted no county zoning ordinance, no county zoning rule limits RV occupancy, temporary camping, tiny-home occupancy or manufactured-home placement on unincorporated private land3. Ask the Murray County Clerk which jurisdiction controls the address, then ask that jurisdiction specifically about full-time RV use, temporary occupancy during construction, utility connections, setbacks and minimum dwelling size13. A manufactured home has a clearer statewide installation rule: an occupied manufactured home is treated as a permanent installation, and new units must follow federal model installation standards or approved manufacturer instructions25. Wastewater remains regulated regardless of what form the dwelling takes, because a new or modified on-site sewage system needs Oklahoma DEQ authorization before installation8.

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

  1. Confirm the parcel’s jurisdiction and ask the Murray County Clerk which local building, floodplain and access reviews apply; inside Davis, check city zoning and the building-permit requirement for tiny-home or manufactured-home installation1345.
  1. A single-family home on unincorporated land does not require a State Fire Marshal permit; for other applicable International Building Code projects, confirm the state or authorized local building-permit authority217.
  1. Obtain DEQ’s Authorization to Construct before septic installation or modification, and arrange approval before operation89.
  1. Obtain an ODOT Driveway Agreement before work in a state or federal highway right-of-way26.
  1. Confirm the well’s intended use: qualifying domestic wells do not need OWRB intent-to-drill authorization, while non-domestic uses require authorization before drilling and well-construction standards still apply1227.
  1. Build to Oklahoma’s statewide minimum codes and complete inspections required for the project2819.

What should you check before buying land in Murray County?

Start with septic feasibility: only 7.7% of Murray County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so an unsuitable site can change the system design and budget24. About 74.5% of the land is at a 15% slope or less, but parcel-level grade, drainage and flood exposure still need direct review29. Murray County averages about 40 inches of precipitation annually and has experienced severe drought in 22.1% of years, making both drainage and water reliability worth checking3031. If a driveway will meet a state highway, price and schedule the ODOT access agreement before closing26. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.4%, with a median annual bill near $665, while the typical home value is about $176,827323334. Finally, confirm city limits and every unresolved local rule with the Murray County Clerk before assuming a parcel is free of local rules13.

Watch-outs

  • We could not confirm Murray County residential certificates of occupancy, utility-connection requirements or a county-specific floodplain approval process; ask the Murray County Clerk which office handles each for the parcel13.
  • State Fire Marshal plan-review fees apply only when that office is the permitting authority; county or municipal fees were not confirmed35.
  • A state highway driveway needs an approved ODOT agreement before any work begins in the right-of-way26.
  • Owner-builder rules are trade by trade: Oklahoma's electrical and plumbing license exemptions for owners do not waive local permits or inspections where a city requires them1036.

Sources

  1. Oklahoma Statutes - Title 19, Counties and County Officers (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  2. Oklahoma Statutes - Title 74, § 74-324.11 (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  3. Oklahoma law on county zoning and building authority
  4. Davis: Sec. 11-8A-4. R-1 Single-Family Residential District: Site and structure requirements (Murray County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Davis: Sec. 11-8D-5. R-4 variance requirements (Murray County), quoted and re-checked
  6. On-Site Sewage Information, quoted and re-checked
  7. Davis: Oklahoma DEQ On-Site Sewage Information (Murray County), quoted and re-checked
  8. On-Site Sewage Information, quoted and re-checked
  9. On-Site Sewage Information, quoted and re-checked
  10. Oklahoma Statutes — Title 59, Professions and Occupations (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Oklahoma Statutes — Title 59, Professions and Occupations (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Wells & Licensing, quoted and re-checked
  13. Murray County Clerk (davisok.city)
  14. Adopted Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  15. Oklahoma Statutes, Title 19 — Zoning exemptions and farm-building permits (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Oklahoma Statutes, Title 19, Section 19-863.25 (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Oklahoma State Fire Marshal Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  18. Permitting and Plan Review, quoted and re-checked
  19. Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  20. Community Development Services — City of Davis, Oklahoma, quoted and re-checked
  21. Minutes — City of Sulphur, quoted and re-checked
  22. Ordinances — City of Sulphur, quoted and re-checked
  23. On-Site Sewage Information, quoted and re-checked
  24. 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
  25. Title 765 Oklahoma Used Motor Vehicle and Parts Commission Rules and Regulations (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. Instructions for Driveway Permit Application (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Water Use Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  28. Codes & Rules, quoted and re-checked
  29. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  33. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data
  35. Permitting and Plan Review, quoted and re-checked
  36. Oklahoma Statutes — Title 59, Professions and Occupations (Oklahoma statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 11, 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 5 of its 6 neighbors, Murray County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleMurray CountyCarter CountyGarvin CountyJohnston CountyPontotoc CountyMarshall CountyLove County
Building permitLimitedNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNot publishedNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsOK DEQOK DEQOK DEQOK DEQOK DEQOK DEQOK DEQ

County locator

Murray County in Oklahoma

67
County map
Murray County highlighted among the Oklahoma counties · colored by Index score

How Murray County scores

Seclusion6680% ev.
Self-Sufficiency51100% ev.
Admin Boringness5690% ev.
Durability43100% ev.
Property Autonomy69100% ev.
Carry Cost85100% ev.

Evidence strength: 94%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$177kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$2,724Land / acre
40"Annual rain
22.1% of yrsSevere drought
33.9 / yr (+20.7)Mid-century 100°F days
22.7 daysMid-century dry spell
2.24" (+6.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.43×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,461Home insurance / yr
2.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.57%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
7,073People within 30 min
2,640,958People within 2 hr
18,458Radius comparison (15 mi)
33People / sq mi
1.6%Federal land
74.5%Land at 15% slope or less
7.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
19,914 acWorkable land screen
35.1%Wooded land
23.7 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Murray 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: Town of Dougherty · Town of Hickory · Sulphur

Answers from the rulebook for Murray County

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

Murray County rules

  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Minimum lot size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Building height · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Living in an RV · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Tiny homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning power is limited to unincorporated areas of the county.
    “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    The previously cited PDF (cms9files.revize.com/murraycounty/.../Zoning Ordinance.pdf) is Murray County, Minnesota's ordinance (33 mentions of Minnesota, none of Oklahoma). Oklahoma counties under 500,000 people have no general county zoning power; Davis and Sulphur zone inside their limits. Corrected 2026-10-10.

    Oklahoma Statutes, Title 19 (county zoning authority limited by population) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Oklahoma rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction in unincorporated Murray County that falls within an International Building Code use or occupancy classification when no local authority requires the permit.

    • If a county or city has a current signed agreement authorizing plan reviews and inspections, that local authority may issue the permit instead.
    • The State Fire Marshal may require plans and specifications and must apply the state-adopted building code.
    • The FAQ's direct requirement is limited to Use and Occupancy Classifications identified in the International Building Code.
    “In all geographical areas wherein no building permit is required by local authorities such permit shall be obtained from the State Fire Marshal's Office”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — State Fire Marshal permitting for construction or alteration of a single-family dwelling, duplex residential dwelling, barn, or shed, or a carport attached to a single-family or duplex residential dwelling, when located in an unincorporated area of an Oklahoma county.
      “Furthermore, nothing in this subsection shall be construed as requiring a person to obtain a permit from the State Fire Marshal for the construction or alteration of a single-family dwelling, duplex residential dwelling, barn, shed, or carport attached to a single-family dwelling, or duplex residential dwelling when such structure is located in an unincorporated area of a county.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owners, certain lessees, and family or employees performing roofing work on qualifying residential, farm, commercial, or single-family dwelling property in Oklahoma.

    • An actual owner of residential or farm property may physically perform roofing services or have family or employees perform them on property owned by the person.
    • Owners of commercial properties, including residential rental properties consisting of four dwelling units or less, must act as their own roofing contractor, provide all material supervision themselves, and install roofing materials according to the IBC as adopted by the OUBCC or the manufacturer's installation instructions.
    • A lessee of residential property must have the owner's consent and must perform the roofing work personally or with the lessee's own employees, using materials installed according to the IBC as adopted by the OUBCC or the manufacturer's installation instructions.
    • An owner building or improving a single-family dwelling residence for the owner's occupancy and not intended for sale or rent must act as the owner's own roofing contractor, provide all material supervision, and install materials according to the IRC or IBC as adopted by the OUBCC or the manufacturer's installation instructions.
    • A person working on the person's own property or that of an immediate relative without compensation is listed as exempt.
    • Non-exempt roofing contractors must register annually with the CIB; the source states that the application requires the required fee and documentation but does not state an amount.
    • This source concerns state roofing registration and does not establish that local building permits or inspections are waived.

    residential rental property size: <= 4 dwelling units (The exemption is stated for residential rental properties consisting of four dwelling units or less.)

    “An actual owner of residential or farm property who physically performs, or has family or employees perform roofing services on property owned by such person;”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — An individual performing electrical work on the individual's own property or residence in Oklahoma.
      “3. An individual to hold a license before doing electrical work on his own property or residence except as may be required by local ordinances and resolutions.”
    • Conditional — A property owner of record or authorized representative performing minor mechanical repairs in Oklahoma.
      “1. A person who is the property owner of record, or his or her authorized representative, when performing minor repair which shall include, but not be limited to, cleaning, adjusting, calibrating and repair of mechanical system parts and the replacement of fuses and room thermostats, and other minor repairs which shall not include any repair which could violate the safe operation of the equipment;”
    • Conditional — An individual performing electrical work on the individual's own property or residence under the Oklahoma Electrical License Act.
      “hold a license before doing electrical work on his own property or residence except as may be required by local ordinances and resolutions.”
    • Available (with conditions) — An individual performing plumbing work on the individual's property of residence in Oklahoma.
      “The provisions of The Plumbing License Law of 1955 shall not apply to: [...] 6. An individual who performs plumbing work on such individual’s property of residence.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    Commercial building construction throughout Oklahoma, subject to the OUBCC amendments and lawful requirements of other jurisdictions.

    • The adopted code is the 2024 International Building Code as amended and modified by OUBCC rules.
    • The 2024 IBC became effective September 14, 2026.
    • The statewide code is a minimum standard; other jurisdictions may amend or alter it only pursuant to Oklahoma law and OUBCC administrative rules.
    • The International Building Code 2021 Edition was expressly not adopted for any purpose.
    • None of the IBC 2024 appendices are included in the statewide minimum code; other jurisdictions may adopt appendices under 59 O.S. § 1000.29.
    • All IBC 2024 chapters and provisions, including exceptions, not specifically modified, deleted, moved, or removed by the rules are adopted without modification.
    • Chapter 34 is not adopted and is not part of the statewide minimum code.

    code edition: International Building Code 2024 (as amended and modified by OUBCC) · effective date: 2026-09-14

    “748:20-2-1., 748:20-2-2., 748:20-2-3., and 748:20-2-4., adopt the IBC® 2024 edition, without appendices and establishes the IBC® 2024 edition as the statewide minimum code for commercial construction in the State of Oklahoma.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted — Statewide minimum residential and commercial construction codes applicable in Oklahoma, including Murray County.
      “2026 09 14 IRC 2026 Permanent Rule | Sep. 14, 2026 | | Adoption of the 2024 Edition of the IRC”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State minimum residential and commercial building codes applicable in Oklahoma, including Murray County.
      “Base model codes have been adopted by reference and amended at the state level.”
    • Adopted — Oklahoma residential and commercial construction, including Murray County, subject to applicable local enforcement and higher local standards.
      “Codes and standards adopted by the Commission shall be the minimum standards for residential and commercial construction in this state.”
    • Adopted — Minimum building-code standards for residential and commercial construction throughout Oklahoma, including construction subject to local county or municipal enforcement.
      “Base model codes have been adopted by reference and amended at the state level.”
    • Adopted — Minimum building codes for residential and commercial construction throughout Oklahoma, including construction in unincorporated areas.
      “Codes and standards adopted by the Commission shall be the minimum standards for residential and commercial construction in this state.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Projects permitted by the Oklahoma State Fire Marshal in unincorporated Murray County.

    • All permitted projects must be inspected for compliance with the permit and applicable codes.
    • Inspection requests must provide at least seven days advance notice.
    • A failed 100% final inspection incurs a $100 re-inspection fee per site visit.
    • A Certificate of Occupancy is recommended after a passed final inspection.

    inspection advance notice: >= 7 days · failed final inspection re-inspection fee: 100 USD per site visit

    “All permitted projects are required to be inspected for compliance with the permit and the applicable codes.”
  • Who permits septicState

    Individual and small public on-site sewage treatment systems in Murray County, Oklahoma.

    • DEQ assigns the Authorization to Construct to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist based on the property location.
    • Alternative systems must be approved by DEQ before installation.
    “assigned to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist (ES)”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — On-site sewage treatment systems in Murray County.
      “Before installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system, an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ. After the ATC is purchased, it is assigned to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist (ES), based on the location of the property, for review and issuance.”
    • State — Statewide administration and regulatory oversight of individual and small public on-site sewage treatment systems in Oklahoma.
      “ECLS administers Oklahoma’s on-site sewage treatment program.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installing a new or modifying an existing individual or small public on-site sewage treatment system statewide.

    • Before installation or modification, an Authorization to Construct must be purchased and issued by DEQ.
    • The Report for On-Site Sewage must be reviewed by DEQ before the Authorization to Construct may be issued.
    • Alternative on-site systems must be approved by DEQ before installation.
    • Effective November 1, 2025, individuals not certified through DEQ may install only one on-site sewage treatment system per calendar year.
    “Before installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system, an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ. After the ATC is purchased, it is assigned to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist (ES), based on the location of the property, for review and issuance. The Report for On-Site Sewage (581) must be reviewed by DEQ before the ATC may be issued.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system in Murray County.
      “Before installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system, an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ.”
    • Required — New or modified on-site sewage treatment systems in Murray County.
      “an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ.”
    • Required — New or modified individual and small public on-site sewage treatment systems in Murray County, Oklahoma.
      “Before installing a new or modifying an existing on-site sewage treatment system, an Authorization to Construct (ATC) must be purchased and issued by DEQ. After the ATC is purchased, it is assigned to the local DEQ Environmental Specialist (ES), based on the location of the property, for review and issuance. The Report for On-Site Sewage (581) must be reviewed by DEQ before the ATC may be issued.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    New installations or modifications to on-site sewage systems in Murray County, Oklahoma.

    • Inspection and approval must occur before the system may be placed into operation.
    • The system may be inspected and approved by DEQ, or installed, self-inspected, and approved by a certified installer.
    • Certified-installer final inspections must be submitted to DEQ within 15 days of completion.

    final inspection submission deadline: 15 days (Certified-installer final inspections)

    “All new installations or modifications to an on-site sewage system must be inspected and approved by DEQ or installed, self-inspected and approved by a certified installer before the system may be placed into operation. Final inspections are documented on DEQ Form 641-576. The information provided must clearly identify all system components, their location on the property, and minimum required separation distances per Chapter 641. Final inspections performed by a certified installer must be submitted to DEQ within 15 days of completion.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New installations or modifications of on-site sewage systems in Murray County.
      “All new installations or modifications to an on-site sewage system must be inspected and approved by DEQ or installed, self-inspected and approved by a certified installer before the system may be placed into operation.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    On-site sewage treatment systems used by Oklahoma homes and businesses where sewage is treated on the property rather than through a centralized sewer system.

    • The Report for On-Site Sewage determines which system types are allowed for the property and states minimum dispersal requirements based on residence size or small-public-system daily flow.
    • A DEQ Authorization to Construct is required before installing or modifying the system.
    • All new installations or modifications require DEQ inspection and approval, or certified-installer self-inspection and approval, before operation.
    • Alternative systems require DEQ approval before installation.
    • The system design depends on lot size and shape, residence size, and soil-test results.
    “determines what types of on-site systems are allowed for the property.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Groundwater wells drilled or used for non-domestic purposes in Oklahoma, including public water supply, industrial, commercial, oil and gas, poultry, medical-marijuana, and irrigation of more than 3 acres.

    • A well drilling contractor must obtain OWRB authorization and approval before drilling.
    • Authorization will not be issued unless the well location has an active groundwater use permit.
    • Groundwater permit applications must be filed before taking or using groundwater and before drilling.
    • The applicant must own or lease the land, the land must overlie a fresh groundwater basin or subbasin, the proposed use must be beneficial, and waste by depletion or pollution must not occur.
    • Failure to submit an intent-to-drill application when required may result in a penalty of up to $5,000 per day per violation.

    irrigation threshold for intent-to-drill authorization: > 3 acres (Irrigation of less than 3 acres is listed as not requiring intent-to-drill authorization.) · application response time: 5 business days approximately (OWRB staff response time stated on the Wells & Licensing page.) · maximum penalty for failure to submit required intent-to-drill application: <= 5000 USD per day per violation

    “Any well drilling contractor who intends to drill a groundwater well for non-domestic use must apply for authorization”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not required — Domestic groundwater use by an individual or family in Murray County.
      “Use of water for domestic purposes (by an individual or family for households; farm and domestic animals up to the normal grazing capacity of the land; irrigation of garden, orchard, and lawn areas of 3 acres or less; and non-household uses of 5 acre feet or less annually) is exempt from the permit requirement.”
    • Not required — Domestic groundwater wells used for household purposes, livestock up to the land's grazing capacity, and irrigation of less than 3 acres in Murray County, Oklahoma.
      “Intent to drill authorizations are not required for domestic groundwater wells used for household purposes”
    • Not required — Domestic use of groundwater and domestic groundwater wells used for household purposes, qualifying livestock, or irrigation of less than three acres statewide.
      “A water permit is not required for domestic use of groundwater”
    • Not required — Domestic groundwater use in Oklahoma, including household purposes, livestock up to the land’s grazing capacity, and irrigation of less than 3 acres.
      “A water permit is not required for domestic use of groundwater”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Construction of a farm home or other farm building under the Title 19 city-county planning and zoning act.

    • The statute states that no fees or permits are required for construction of any farm home or other farm building under this Act.
    • The quoted exemption is limited to the construction described in the statute and does not establish that every other state or local approval is waived.
    “No fees or permits shall be required for [...] any farm building.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — The zoning power conferred by Oklahoma Title 19 on municipalities and counties, including county unincorporated areas, as applied to usual farm buildings used for agricultural purposes and the planning of agricultural crops.
      “shall not apply to [...] the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Residential developments outside Oklahoma municipal corporate limits, including plat approval and recording requirements.

    • A person creating or intending to create a residential development outside a city or town must file a plat describing sewage-treatment methods with the Oklahoma Department.
    • Department approval must be obtained before recording the plat, offering lots for sale, or beginning construction within the residential development.
    • The plat must include water-supply and sewage-treatment information, actual lot sizes, and the location of public water-supply sources within 300 feet.
    • The plat must be filed in the county land records after Department approval.

    Department approval effective period: 30 days after filing unless specifically rejected earlier · public water-supply search radius: 300 feet

    “Approval of the plat shall be obtained prior to recording the plat”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveways connecting to Federal or State Highway rights-of-way in Oklahoma.

    • An approved Driveway Agreement is required before work on the State Highway right-of-way.
    • The application requires an original Driveway Agreement and a sketch or site plan.
    • Drainage must be properly disposed of and runoff may not run onto the highway.
    • If the driveway is within city limits, the Agreement must be signed or permitted in writing by a city authority.
    • No alteration or relocation may be made without prior written permission from ODOT or its authorized representatives.
    • The permit expires if the driveway is not constructed within six months after the effective date unless a written extension is requested.

    permit expiration period: 6 months (Unless the applicant requests a written time extension from ODOT.)

    “Under no circumstances shall the applicant be permitted to do any work on the State Highway right-of-way until an approved copy of the application is in hand.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Oklahoma's statewide floodplain-management framework and OWRB coordination of participating communities; the sources do not establish one uniform statewide permit requirement for all private development.

    • The OWRB provides guidance and coordination rather than administering every local floodplain regulation.
    • Floodplain regulations are developed and enforced by local participating communities in designated flood hazard areas.
    • Participation in the National Flood Insurance Program is community-based; local requirements can therefore vary by participating community.
    • The Oklahoma Floodplain Management Act was passed in 1980.
    • A 2004 amendment requires floodplain administrators to become accredited through the OWRB.
    “The Oklahoma Floodplain Management Act, passed in 1980, authorizes communities to develop floodplain regulations, designate flood hazard areas, and establish floodplain boards.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Construction permits and renewals issued by a state agency, municipality, or other political subdivision for work governed by Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission codes.

    • The OUBCC fee is not to exceed $5.00 for issuance and $5.00 for renewal.
    • The official FAQ states that current fees are $4.00 per permit.
    • The issuing state agency, municipality, or other political subdivision may levy an additional fee up to $0.50 per construction permit or renewal permit.

    permit issuance fee: 4 USD (The statutory range is not to exceed $5.00.) · permit renewal fee: 4 USD (The statutory range is not to exceed $5.00.) · additional issuing-jurisdiction fee: <= 0.5 USD (May be levied by the collecting state agency, municipality, or other political subdivision.)

    “Currently the fees are set at $4.00 per permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — State Fire Marshal building-permit plan review in unincorporated Murray County when the State Fire Marshal is the permitting authority.
      “Fees: $0.20 per square foot, plus $4 OUBCC fee. $104 minimum.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    State Fire Marshal permitting and plan review for applicable projects in unincorporated Murray County.

    • Applications are submitted through the OKSFM Accela Citizen Portal.
    • Paper and email plan-review submissions are not accepted.
    • Plans must meet minimum state codes adopted by the OUBCC.
    • Fees must be paid before technical review.
    • Plans are reviewed first come, first served; stated queue times are approximately four to eight weeks before review begins.
    • A permit must be issued before required inspections.

    stated plan-review queue: 4 to 8 weeks (before the start of review; actual review depends on project size, complexity, plans, submittals, and staff)

    “All projects are reviewed through the OKSFM Accela Citizen Portal.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — Projects subject to Oklahoma State Fire Marshal building-plan review.
      “All projects are reviewed through the OKSFM Accela Citizen Portal. Plan review is not done over email and paper submittals mailed or dropped off in the office are not accepted.”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

    County zoning authority in unincorporated areas under Oklahoma Statutes Title 19, Sections 868.1 through 868.22.

    • The authority applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • The zoning authority is for unincorporated areas of the county.
    • Existing lawful uses are protected except as otherwise provided by the statute.
    • The statute excludes public utilities subject to Corporation Commission or similar state or federal regulation, usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, planting agricultural crops, and extraction of minerals.
    • Zoning regulations must address the statutory public-health, safety, welfare, transportation, utilities, public facilities, and land-use purposes.

    county population threshold: > 500000 persons (latest Federal Decennial Census)

    “population in excess of five hundred thousand (500,000)”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — County zoning regulations for unincorporated areas under Title 19, §§19-868.1 through 19-868.22.
      “The board of county commissioners is hereby empowered to adopt zoning regulations effective in the unincorporated areas of the county for the purposes of promoting the health, safety, peace, morals, comfort and the general welfare of the inhabitants; lessening danger and congestion in public transportation and travel; securing safety from fire and other dangers; preventing overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; providing adequate police protection, transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, forests, recreational facilities, airports, military and naval facilities, and other public requirements; and preventing undue encroachment thereon. The zoning power hereby conferred shall not be exercised so as to deprive the owner of any existing property of its use or maintenance for the purpose to which it is then lawfully devoted except as hereinafter provided; nor shall the provisions of this act apply to the erection, installation and use of structures and equipment by public utilities subject to the jurisdiction and regulation of the Corporation Commission of the State of Oklahoma or other similar state or federal regulatory bodies; nor to the erection or use of the usual farm buildings for agricultural purposes, the planting of agricultural crops or the extraction of minerals.”
    • Limited — County planning and zoning through a cooperative city-county planning commission for the unincorporated area of an eligible county.
      “county plan within the unincorporated area”
  • county building authorityLimited

    County adoption and enforcement of building or fire codes in unincorporated areas under 19 O.S. § 868.17A.

    • The authority applies only in unincorporated areas.
    • The provision does not apply to counties not subject to 19 O.S. §§ 868.1 through 868.22; those provisions apply only to counties with a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census.
    • Public-utility electric supply and communication lines regulated by the Corporation Commission are excluded.
    • The county may prescribe permits, notices, inspection procedures, and reasonable fees sufficient to cover inspection and enforcement expenses.
    • Building inspectors must be licensed by Oklahoma.

    county population threshold: > 500000 persons (latest Federal Decennial Census) · inspection and enforcement fees: reasonable and sufficient to meet inspection and enforcement expense

    “may, by resolution, adopt building codes, fire codes”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — County adoption and enforcement of building and fire codes, including permits and inspections, in unincorporated areas under Title 19, §§19-868.1 through 19-868.22.
      “The board of county commissioners may, by resolution, adopt building codes, fire codes, or both building and fire codes which shall be designed for the purpose of promoting, benefiting, and protecting the public health, safety and welfare of the people of this state. The codes adopted pursuant to this section shall be applicable only in the unincorporated areas of the county. All building materials, equipment, and methods of installation or construction shall be at least the equivalent of that prescribed in any building or fire code adopted by the board of county commissioners in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, and safety. Any codes adopted pursuant to this section shall not apply to the installation and maintenance of electric supply and communication lines of public utilities and public service companies which are regulated by the Corporation Commission. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any area located within any county not subject to the provisions of Section 868.1 through 868.22 of Title 19 of the Oklahoma Statutes. Building inspectors may be employed by a county to enforce building or fire codes. The building inspectors shall be licensed by the State of Oklahoma. The building inspectors shall enforce the provisions of any building or fire code adopted pursuant to this section and shall be authorized to inspect all buildings for the purpose of discharging the duties imposed by this section or by any building or fire code adopted by the board of county commissioners. The board of county commissioners may adopt rules to carry out the inspections to enforce the building or fire codes, may prescribe the necessary permits, notices, and inspection procedures and may set and determine fees. The fees shall be reasonable and shall be sufficient to meet the expense of inspection and enforcement of the building or fire codes.”

Inside cities and towns in Murray County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use and development within the City of Davis, Oklahoma.

    • The Davis Planning Commission reviews and recommends action on zoning changes, subdivision plats, rezoning requests, and comprehensive-plan updates.
    • The Davis Board of Adjustment applies and interprets city zoning regulations and hears variances, special exceptions, and appeals.
    “The Davis Board of Adjustment is a quasi-judicial body that applies and interprets the City of Davis zoning regulations.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land use and development within the City of Davis, Oklahoma.
      “The Davis Board of Adjustment is a quasi-judicial body that applies and interprets the City of Davis zoning regulations.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land use and development within the City of Sulphur, Oklahoma.
      “Boards and Commissions Planning & Zoning Historic Preservation Commission Sulphur Development Board Board of Adjustment”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land use and development within the City of Sulphur, Oklahoma.
      “Select a map from the list to download a PDF document. If you have any issues loading the PDF please call City Hall. Zoning Map”

Still unanswered

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

  • Certificate of occupancy — Residential certificates of occupancy in unincorporated Murray County.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and sewer utility connections for residential development in unincorporated Murray County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rentals in Murray 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.

Water rights & wells in Murray County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Oklahoma’s water agency.

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Oklahoma groundwater is tied to the overlying land rather than allocated by prior appropriation, and 'domestic use' — household use, farm/domestic animals, and irrigation of up to 3 acres of gardens/orchards/lawns — needs no permit at all.

Limit: Domestic use exempt from any permit; non-domestic groundwater allocated by overlying land ownership (default 2 acre-ft/acre/yr)

Oklahoma Water Resources Board — Groundwater Permitting ↗
  • Arbuckle-Simpson Sensitive Sole Source Groundwater Basinpartial of county

    Oklahoma's only designated 'sensitive sole source' groundwater basin; permitted allocation capped far below the statewide default (0.20 acre-ft/acre/yr) to protect spring/stream flow, with a moratorium on out-of-basin municipal permits; domestic use remains exempt.

    Oklahoma Water Resources Board — Arbuckle-Simpson Water Use Permitting ↗

Hybrid state (appropriation + riparian). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Oklahoma state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Murray County, Oklahoma

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

Murray County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop.

Do you need a building permit in Murray County, Oklahoma?

Murray 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 Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). 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 Murray County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Murray County is allowed: Unincorporated Murray County: no county rule sets this, because Murray County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Oklahoma law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing oklegislature.gov. Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits. The act applies only to counties having a population in excess of 500,000 according to the latest Federal Decennial Census. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Murray County, Oklahoma?

Land in Murray County runs about $2,724 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Murray County?

Murray County gets about 40" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 22.1% of years. On water rights, Murray County lies in the Arbuckle-Simpson Sensitive Sole Source Groundwater Basin — Oklahoma's only designated 'sensitive sole source' groundwater basin; permitted allocation capped far below the statewide default (0.20 acre-ft/acre/yr) to protect spring/stream flow, with a moratorium on out-of-basin municipal permits; domestic use remains exempt..

How remote is Murray County?

A representative private-land location has about 7,073 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,640,958 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 Murray compares in Oklahoma

Compare side-by-side →See all 77 Oklahoma counties ranked →