Bolthole Index

Crockett County, Tennessee

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Crockett County, Tennessee

59Index Score / 100
#85 of 95 in Tennessee

Crockett County, Tennessee sends building-permit applicants to the County Clerk, but the county's page does not say which projects need a building permit1. County zoning approval applies outside municipal corporations, with setbacks of 35 feet in front and 15 feet on the sides in the FAR district234. Septic permits come from the state (TDEC), not the county, for every address in the county5.

At a glance

Building permit
County Clerk is the contact; covered projects and exceptions are unconfirmed1
Zoning
Yes outside municipalities; confirm the parcel's district with the County Clerk23
Septic permit
Required through TDEC before installing or repairing a septic system5
RV living
Not confirmed; ask the County Clerk how the parcel's zoning applies6
Tiny home
No county tiny-home rule confirmed; a partly site-built tiny structure must meet State Fire Marshal criteria and one- and two-family permit rules7
Owner-builder
State exemption for a personal residence, subject to strict conditions8
Septic soil suitability
Only 3.7% of soils rate without severe limits for a conventional drain field9
Unincorporated sewer
The county says septic is the only option in unincorporated areas10

Who to call

Building permits

Crockett County Clerk

Crockett County building-permit contact and first contact for county zoning questions

(731) 696-5452

1 South Bell St., Suite 1, Alamo, TN 38001

Septic permits

TDEC Jackson Environmental Field Office

Septic-related inquiries and state Division of Water Resources assistance for Crockett County

731-441-5593

1625 Hollywood Drive | Jackson, TN 38305

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.

Do you need a building permit in Crockett County, Tennessee?

Crockett County directs building-permit applicants to the County Clerk, but the county's published page does not identify which projects require a permit, any exceptions, the adopted code, inspection stages or a certificate-of-occupancy process1. Call the Crockett County Clerk at (731) 696-5452 before dirt work or construction and describe the exact structure and parcel111. Tennessee's state residential permit program applies only where the State Fire Marshal administers that program; local governments remain responsible for locally adopted codes and requirements12. Crockett County is listed as exempt from the state residential program, but we could not confirm the county's local code edition or inspection sequence. Do not use the state fee table or state inspection sequence to budget a Crockett County project unless the Clerk says the state program applies to that parcel131.

Who issues Crockett County building permits, and how do you reach the office?

The Crockett County Clerk is the county's published contact for building permits1. The office is at 1 South Bell St., Suite 1, Alamo, Tennessee 38001, and its phone number is (731) 696-545211. The county publishes planning and zoning materials, including an application for zoning-map amendments, variances, special exceptions, subdivision plats and site-plan review1415. Because the permits page provides no building application, required-document list, fee schedule, review timing or inspection calendar, ask the Clerk what plans to submit, who reviews and inspects the work, what the local fee is and whether zoning approval must come first1. For land division or a use requiring planning review, also ask for the next Regional Planning Commission or Board of Zoning Appeals deadline1415.

Does Crockett County have zoning, and what are the setbacks?

Crockett County has county-administered zoning and a Regional Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals process214. Tennessee county zoning authority applies outside municipal corporations, so ask whether a parcel is governed by the county or an incorporated municipality before relying on a listing's zoning label3. In the county's FAR and R districts, permitted-use lots without an existing septic system or public water generally require at least 1 acre, subject to a larger area required after soil review; with an existing septic system or public water, the stated minimum is 0.5 acre16. In the R-MH district, an individual single-family or mobile-home lot requires at least 0.5 acre, or more if the County Environmentalist requires it based on soil characteristics17. The FAR district requires front, rear and side setbacks of 35, 30 and 15 feet, the R district 35, 25 and 15 feet, and the R-MH district 35, 25 and 20 feet41819. The R district excludes mobile homes, while the FAR and R-MH districts permit them20. Ask the County Clerk to confirm the parcel's district, current map, setbacks and reviewing authority1114.

How do septic permits work in Crockett County?

A Crockett County property owner must obtain a TDEC Septic System Construction Permit before installing a septic system or repairing a faulty one5. Crockett County is not among Tennessee's listed contract counties, so TDEC's Division of Water Resources administers the septic program; the Jackson Environmental Field Office's septic inquiry line is 731-441-55932122. After installation, the installer must arrange a final inspection before covering the system, and an approved installation receives a Certificate of Completion23. Only 3.7% of Crockett County soils rate without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation part of due diligence9. State permit fees start at $400 for a new conventional system and $500 for a new alternative system up to 1,000 gallons per day; construction-inspection fees are separate5.

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

We could not confirm a Crockett County rule that allows or prohibits long-term RV occupancy, temporary camping or tiny-home occupancy on private land. County zoning applies outside municipal corporations, and the county administers zoning-map amendments, variances and special exceptions, so the answer may depend on the parcel's district and location314. Before buying for an RV or tiny-home plan, give the County Clerk the parcel number and ask which authority governs it, whether the proposed use is permitted, what placement standards apply and what sanitation approval is required1114. In unincorporated Crockett County, the county says it provides no sewer service and describes septic as the option; installing or repairing a septic system requires a TDEC permit105. A tiny or other non-traditional home built partly off-site must meet State Fire Marshal criteria and the permit and inspection rules for one- and two-family dwellings7. A small dwelling does not bypass the applicable zoning, building-permit or septic questions merely because it is called a tiny home1145.

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

  1. Ask the County Clerk to confirm the parcel's zoning authority, district, allowed residential use and required planning review1411.
  2. Confirm whether the project needs a building permit, which plans and forms are required, the local fee, applicable code and inspection schedule1.
  3. Apply to TDEC for the septic construction permit before dirt work or construction, using the Jackson field office for questions522.
  4. If acting as owner-builder, confirm that the residence is for your individual use and fits Tennessee's licensing exemption; the exemption allows 1 owner permit in 2 years and does not waive other approvals8.
  5. If the driveway enters a state highway right-of-way, obtain a TDOT highway entrance permit24.
  6. Obtain every approval the Clerk identifies and follow the local inspection instructions1.
  7. Keep the septic system uncovered until the final inspection and Certificate of Completion23.

What should you check before buying land in Crockett County?

Start with the zoning district, lot size and septic feasibility: county rules set district-specific lot minimums, while only 3.7% of Crockett County soils rate without severe limits for a conventional drain field16179. Confirm water at the parcel because the independent County-wide Utility District serves only several unincorporated areas, Gadsden and some places outside the county line; the county provides no sewer in unincorporated areas10. If land will be divided into lots smaller than 5 acres, ask whether Planning Commission plat approval is required before recording; divisions in which every resulting parcel is at least 5 acres are excluded from the cited subdivision definition25. Check legal road access, and obtain a TDOT permit for a driveway on state highway right-of-way24. Make any purchase offer contingent on confirming zoning, access, water and septic approval for the intended use145.

Watch-outs

  • Crockett County publishes no local building-permit fee schedule or inspection sequence on its permits page; get both directly from the County Clerk before budgeting111.
  • Only 3.7% of county soils rate without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make septic approval a purchase contingency rather than assuming a standard system will work95.
  • Long-term RV living, temporary camping and tiny-home occupancy remain unconfirmed; ask the County Clerk which zoning authority and district rules apply to the parcel611.

Sources

  1. County Permits | Crockett County, quoted and re-checked
  2. County Permits | Crockett County, quoted and re-checked
  3. Tennessee Attorney General Opinion No. 10-108 (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  4. Crockett County Zoning Resolution, updated September 20, 2022, quoted and re-checked
  5. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Permits, quoted and re-checked
  6. County Permits | Crockett County (2026 county census)
  7. Public Guidance: Ready-Removables and Non-Traditional Homes, quoted and re-checked
  8. Can I build my own home without a license?, quoted and re-checked
  9. 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
  10. County Services | Crockett County, quoted and re-checked
  11. Crockett County Clerk (tn.gov)
  12. Residential Permit FAQs (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Residential Building Permit Fees (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Official Application of the Crockett County Regional Planning Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals, quoted and re-checked
  15. Official Application of the Crockett County Regional Planning Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals, quoted and re-checked
  16. Crockett County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  17. Crockett County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  18. Crockett County Zoning Resolution, updated September 20, 2022, quoted and re-checked
  19. Crockett County Zoning Resolution, updated September 20, 2022, quoted and re-checked
  20. CARROLL CO. ZONING RESOLUTION, quoted and re-checked
  21. Online Application for Septic Related Services, quoted and re-checked
  22. TDEC Jackson Environmental Field Office (tn.gov)
  23. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  24. Highway Entrance Permits (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  25. Subdivision Regulations of Crockett County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 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.

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

Compared with neighboring counties

Like 5 of its 6 neighbors, Crockett County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleCrockett CountyHaywood CountyGibson CountyDyer CountyMadison CountyLauderdale CountyObion County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequired
County zoningYesYesNot publishedYesYesNot publishedNo
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDEC

County locator

Crockett County in Tennessee

59
County map
Crockett County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Crockett County scores

Seclusion34100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency59100% ev.
Admin Boringness46100% ev.
Durability53100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost86100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$200kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$4,729Land / acre
54.1"Annual rain
6.8% of yrsSevere drought
15.4 / yr (+13.9)Mid-century 100°F days
15.6 daysMid-century dry spell
2.38" (+8.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.56×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,772Home insurance / yr
-0.4% / yrInsurance growth
0.79%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
94,258People within 30 min
2,576,748People within 2 hr
64,967Radius comparison (15 mi)
52.7People / sq mi
1%Federal land
98.9%Land at 15% slope or less
3.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
6,257 acWorkable land screen
15.8%Wooded land
72.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
60°FAvg temp

Scout Crockett County

Camp here before you commitBook a few nights nearby on Hipcamp →Already own land here?Earn money hosting campers — get $100 when you become a Hipcamp host →

Some links are affiliate or referral links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Search live inventory elsewhere, then cost and vet each candidate here. No copied listings, account, or paid data feed.

View your full hunt →
ZillowLand & lotsRealtor.comLand listingsLandSearchRural & vacant land

Each button opens a current land search for Crockett County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.

Working estimate

—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—

A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.

Cities and towns in Crockett 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.

Town of Alamo · Bells · Friendship · Town of Gadsden · Town of Maury City

Answers from the rulebook for Crockett County

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

Crockett County rules

  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Certificates of occupancy for uses and developments subject to the Crockett County zoning resolution, especially uses requiring site-plan review.

    • The zoning resolution requires site-plan approval before issuance of a zoning-compliance permit or certificate of occupancy for applicable uses.
    • The source does not establish that every building requires a certificate of occupancy.
    “The following procedures and standards are established for those sections and Chapters of this Resolution which require the submission and approval of a site plan prior to the issuance of a Zoning Compliance Permit or certificate of occupancy. The site plan must be prepared and stamped by either a licensed engineer or a licensed surveyor.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning administered through Crockett County planning and zoning materials.

    • The county page identifies zoning documents but the linked zoning-ordinance file opened during research is titled "CARROLL CO. ZONING RESOLUTION," so its district controls were not attributed to Crockett County.
    “CROCKETT COUNTY, TENNESSEE [...] R RESIDENTIAL R-MH RESIDENTIAL/MOBILE HOME C-1 LOCAL COMMERCIAL C-2 GENERAL COMMERCIAL I INDUSTRIAL FAR FORESTRY, AGRICULTURAL, RESIDENTIAL”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County-administered zoning and Board of Zoning Appeals processes in Crockett County; this does not establish the contents of separate municipal ordinances.

    • The official county application identifies County Regional Planning Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals processes, including zoning-map amendments, variances, and special exceptions.
    “OFFICIAL APPLICATION OF THE CROCKETT COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION/BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Published county zoning-map and zoning-classification materials.

    • The county application recognizes present and proposed zoning classifications and a regional zoning map, but no valid Crockett County district schedule was verified from the linked ordinance file.
    “R RESIDENTIAL R-MH RESIDENTIAL/MOBILE HOME C-1 LOCAL COMMERCIAL C-2 GENERAL COMMERCIAL I INDUSTRIAL FAR FORESTRY, AGRICULTURAL, RESIDENTIAL”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning districts and mapping in Crockett County.
      “County Zoning Documents Land Use and Transportation Plan Subdivision Regulations Zoning Ordinance Zoning Map”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Permitted and appeal uses in the Crockett County FAR and R zoning districts

    • FAR and R permitted-use lot sizes depend on septic-system or public-water availability and county health-office soil review.
    • Appeal uses have separate church, school, and Board of Zoning Appeals standards.
    • The resolution's minimum-lot provisions are subject to county health-office requirements based on soil characteristics.

    FAR permitted uses without existing septic system or public water: >= 1 acre (as required by the County Health Office based on soil characteristics) · FAR permitted uses with existing septic system or public water: 0.5 acre · R permitted uses without existing septic system or public water: >= 1 acre (as required by the County Health Office based on soil characteristics) · R permitted uses with existing septic system or public water: 0.5 acre · appeal churches: 1 acre or 200 square feet of lot area per auditorium seat, whichever is greater · appeal schools: 5 acres plus 1 acre for each 100 students

    “5.04. Minimum Lot Sizes. A. Uses Permitted: - One (1) acre or greater as required by the County Health Office based on soil characteristics for lots without an existing septic system or access to a public water system. One half (1/2) acre for lots with an existing septic system or access to a public water system.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Permitted residential, multifamily, and mobile-home-park uses in the Crockett County R-MH Residential-Mobile Home District
      “10,000 square feet for each additional unit”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Permitted residential uses in Crockett County's FAR, R, and R-MH zoning districts.
      “dwellings (including mobile homes on individual lots) - 1/2 acre or greater”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Setbacks within Crockett County zoning districts.

    • FAR: front 35 feet, rear 30 feet, side 15 feet.
    • R: front 35 feet, rear 25 feet, side 15 feet.
    • R-MH: front 35 feet, rear 25 feet, side 20 feet.
    • C-1: front 45 feet, rear 30 feet, side 20 feet.
    • C-2: front 50 feet, rear 25 feet, side 10 feet.
    • I: front 50 feet, rear 30 feet, side 20 feet.
    • Exceptions and modifications apply under Chapter 14.

    FAR setbacks: front 35; rear 30; side 15 feet · R setbacks: front 35; rear 25; side 15 feet · R-MH setbacks: front 35; rear 25; side 20 feet · C-1 setbacks: front 45; rear 30; side 20 feet · C-2 setbacks: front 50; rear 25; side 10 feet · I setbacks: front 50; rear 30; side 20 feet

    “The minimum required land area is one (1) acres with front, rear, and side yard setbacks of 35, 30, and 15 feet respectively. [...] The minimum required building lot is one (1) acre with front, rear, and side yards setbacks of 35, 25, and 15 feet respectively. [...] The minimum required land area is one (1) acre with minimum front, rear, and side yard requirement of 45, 30, and 20 respectively.”
    7 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential and agricultural-residential development in Crockett County zoning districts.
      “with front, rear, and side yard setbacks of 35, 30, and 15 feet respectively.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Development in Crockett County's FAR (Forestry, Agriculture, Residential) zoning district.
      “The minimum required land area is one (1) acres with front, rear, and side yard setbacks of 35, 30, and 15 feet respectively. More than one principal structure on a lot, but each structure will be required to meet setbacks.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Development in Crockett County's R (Residential) zoning district.
      “The minimum required building lot is one (1) acre with front, rear, and side yards setbacks of 35, 25, and 15 feet respectively.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Development in Crockett County's R-MH (Residential-Mobile Home) zoning district.
      “The minimum land areas vary according to density with front, rear, and side yards setbacks of 35, 25, and 20 feet respectively. Access to public water, but not necessarily public sewer, includes provisions to safeguard quality of life (site plan review requirements).”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Uses permitted in Crockett County's C-1 (Local Commercial) zoning district.
      “8.05. Minimum Front Yard Depth. A. All lots fronting arterial streets - 60 feet B. All other lots - 45 feet 8.06. Minimum Side Yard. All uses - 20 feet 8.07. Minimum Rear Yard Depth. All uses - 30 feet except when abutting residential property where 40 feet shall be required.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Uses permitted in Crockett County's C-2 (General Commercial) zoning district.
      “Uses Permitted: None provided that if the structure does not abut the side lot line the minimum side yard shall be ten (10) feet and provided further that when the commercial lot adjoins a residential districts along the side lot line that the minimum width of the side yard shall be twenty (20) feet.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Development in Crockett County's I (Industrial) zoning district.
      “B. Uses Permitted on Appeal: Side yard shall be twenty (20) feet or more as required by the Board of Zoning Appeals. The depth of a side yard which abuts a residential district shall be not less than one hundred (100) feet.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Buildings in Crockett County zoning districts.

    • The general maximum is 35 feet in the cited commercial and industrial district provisions.
    • Exceptions include belfries, chimneys, church spires, flagpoles, radio and television antennas, water tanks, standpipes, and certain agricultural structures, subject to applicable codes and a distance equal to height plus ten feet from the nearest property line where stated.
    • Chapter 14 contains additional height-regulation exceptions.

    maximum building height: <= 35 feet (district-specific exceptions and Chapter 14 modifications)

    “No building shall exceed 35 feet in height. This limitation shall not apply to belfries, chimneys church spires, flagpoles, radio and television antennas, and water tanks or stand pipes provided they comply with the provisions of all pertinent codes and resolutions and provided that they are located a distance equal to their height plus ten (10) feet from the nearest property line.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured or mobile-home occupancy under the county zoning districts.

    • Mobile homes are permitted in the FAR and R-MH districts.
    • The R district expressly excludes mobile homes and mobile-home parks.
    • R-MH mobile-home parks and multifamily developments require Planning Commission site-plan review.
    • The resolution distinguishes manufactured residential dwellings from mobile homes.

    mobile-home-park minimum area: 2 acres or 10000 square feet per mobile home, whichever is greater (a greater area may be required by the County Environmentalist based on soil characteristics)

    “The permitted uses are single-family dwellings, manufactured residential dwellings and incidental home occupations. The minimum required building lot is one (1) acre with front, rear, and side yards setbacks of 35, 25, and 15 feet respectively. One principal structure, no mobile homes or mobile home parks. [...] This district is intended to allow a mixture of single-family residential development with individual mobile homes and mobile home parks and multi-family residential uses.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater

    Water service in Crockett County, including service to county residents and Gadsden.

    • The cited official county plan is titled 2010-2030 and does not establish a mandatory connection requirement.
    • The plan states that the County does not provide sewer service and that private septic service is available in the County.
    “Water service is provided to residents of the County as well as the City of Gadsden by the Crockett County Wide Water District. The Water District is independent of the Crockett County government.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Water (with conditions) — Utility availability in unincorporated Crockett County.
      “The County-wide Utility District, which is independent of Crockett County Government, provides water service to several unincorporated areas, Gadsden, and some areas outside of the County line in both Madison and Dyer Counties. The County does not provide sewer service; therefore, septic is the only option in unincorporated areas.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural buildings on lands devoted to agricultural uses under the Crockett County zoning resolution.

    • The exemption is limited to agricultural buildings on land devoted to agricultural uses.
    • Other state, county, or environmental requirements may still apply.
    “However; this zoning resolution shall not be construed as authorizing the requirement of zoning compliance permits or any regulation of agricultural buildings on lands devoted to agricultural uses.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plats and site plans submitted to the Crockett County Regional Planning Commission.

    • The official application requires submission for planning-commission review; specific subdivision standards were not verified because the county page's linked subdivision document was titled "Lauderdale Co. Sub. Reg." rather than a Crockett County regulation.

    application deadline: >= 7 days (Due before the Planning Commission/BZA meeting.)

    “Due seven (7) days prior to Planning Commission/BZA meeting [...] ( ) Submission of Subdivision Plat/Site Plan for Review”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land within the Crockett County Planning Region.
      “These regulations shall govern all subdivision of land within the Crockett County Planning Region as established by resolution of the Local Government Planning Advisory Committee and the Tennessee State Planning Office.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Access roads serving lots in the Crockett County Planning Region.

    • The access road must have public-road status or appear on a preliminary plat approved by the Planning Commission before a building permit or certificate of compliance may issue.
    • This source addresses lot access roads and subdivision approval, not every individual driveway design standard.
    “No building permit or certificate of compliance shall be issued for and no building or structure shall be erected on any lot within the Crockett County Planning Region, unless the road giving access to the lot shall have received the local statue of a public road or unless such road is shown on a preliminary plat approval by the Planning Commission in accordance with these regulations.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Processing fees for Crockett County zoning-compliance permits.

    • The zoning-compliance permit request must be accompanied by a processing fee set by the County Commission.
    • No fee amount was stated in the reviewed official source.

    processing fee: set by County Commission

    “The request for a Zoning Compliance Permit shall be accompanied by a processing fee set by the County Commission.”
  • Permit processPartial

    County building-permit point of contact.

    • The page publishes only the County Clerk contact, not applications, required documents, review sequence, timing, or fee schedule.
    “For building permits contact the County Clerk's office: 731-696-5452”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — County building-permit process in Crockett County.
      “For building permits contact the County Clerk's office: 731-696-5452”

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    State residential building permits for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses in Tennessee jurisdictions where the State Fire Marshal's Office administers the residential building permit program.

    • The state permit is required only in some areas because other jurisdictions may enforce local residential building codes.
    • A county legislative body may remove unincorporated areas from the state program or a city legislative body may remove the city by a two-thirds vote.
    • The state permit does not replace grading or fill approval, floodplain compliance, septic or sewer permits, electrical permits, or zoning approval.
    • Local governments remain responsible for locally adopted codes and other requirements.
    “Why is the state residential building permit only required in some areas of the state?”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A Tennessee property owner constructing a single residence for the owner's individual use.

    • The owner may have one permit every two years.
    • The residence must not be for sale, lease, or rent.
    • If the owner hires a contractor, the contractor is a prime and must be licensed and obtain the building permit for inspections.
    • Contracts may not be split into phases to circumvent the licensing law.
    • Anyone paid more than $25,000 by the owner is considered a prime and must be licensed.
    • The exemption is based on TCA 62-6-103 and Rule 0680-1-.22.

    owner permits: per 1 permit per two years · contractor payment threshold: > 25000 USD (Anyone paid in excess of this amount is considered a prime and must be licensed.)

    “one permit every two years to build their home as long as it is not for sale, lease, or rent (individual use).”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner constructing a single residence in Tennessee, including Crockett County, without a licensed contractor.
      “Yes. A person who owns property is allowed one permit every two years to build their home as long as it is not for sale, lease, or rent (individual use).”
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner constructing a single residence for the owner's own use in Tennessee, including Crockett County.
      “an owner of property may construct a single residence once every two years for his/her own use”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office residential building-code standards for one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes statewide, except where a qualifying local government enforces its own current residential code or has opted out.

    • The State Fire Marshal's Office has adopted the 2018 International Residential Code with amendments.
    • For one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes, the adopted energy code is the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code with amendments.
    • The statewide program applies only in areas that have not received an exemption from the State Fire Marshal's Office because local building codes are enforced by the local government or opted out of state residential building codes and enforcement by a two-thirds vote of the city or county legislative body.
    • A qualifying local jurisdiction may continue operating its own program if its building code is current within seven years of the most recent edition; other versions may be approved in writing by the State Fire Marshal's Office.
    • A county legislative body may vote to remove unincorporated areas of the county from the state program, and a city legislative body may vote to remove the city from the state program.
    • A city or county may opt out by passage, by a two-thirds vote, of a resolution exempting the city or county; the opt-out resolution expires 180 days following the date of the election for the city or county's legislative body.
    • If the subsequent legislative body does not vote to opt out before the resolution expires, the State Fire Marshal's Office begins enforcing the residential building-code requirements until the city or county enforces residential building codes or passes another opt-out resolution.
    • The State Fire Marshal's Office enforces only the codes it adopts; local governments enforce other locally adopted codes or requirements.
    • The state residential building permit is a building permit only and is not grading or fill approval, floodplain compliance, a septic or sewer permit, an electrical permit, or zoning approval.
    • The permit fee is based on the cost of construction and covers all required inspections and one free re-inspection; additional re-inspections cost $100 each.

    International Residential Code edition: 2018 (with amendments) · International Energy Conservation Code edition for one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes: 2018 (with amendments) · local-code currency window: <= 7 years (other versions can be approved in writing by the State Fire Marshal's Office) · opt-out vote: two-thirds vote (resolution expires 180 days following the date of the election for the city or county's legislative body) · additional re-inspection fee: 100 USD (one re-inspection per permit is free)

    “The codes currently adopted by the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office are: [...] International Residential Code (IRC), 2018 edition, published by the ICC, with amendments;”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses in Tennessee areas subject to the State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program, including qualifying residential structures in Crockett County unless a local exemption or opt-out applies.
      “The state has adopted the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) and the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office commercial building-code adoption, including the adopted 2021 International Building Code and related commercial codes.
      “4/17/2025 | 2021a | 2021a | 2021a Commercial | 2021 | 2021 | 2021 | 2021a | 2021a”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office residential building-code adoption for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses where state residential enforcement applies.
      “7/16/2020 | | | 2018b Residential | | | | | | 2018b”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Overnight camping on Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency-controlled Wildlife Management Areas and related lands where overnight camping is allowed.

    • Overnight camping may be permitted only in designated areas and by permission from the area manager, park ranger, lake manager, park superintendent, or national forest supervisor.
    • Camping is subject to limitations prescribed in the permit if required.
    • Camping may not exceed three weeks from the beginning to the end of the camping stay.
    • Owner contact information or a TWRA ID number and date of arrival must be displayed on a camper, tent, vehicle, or similar item at all times.
    • Where overnight camping is allowed, firearms and archery equipment must remain in camp except during legal hunting hours.

    maximum camping stay: <= 3 weeks

    “May be permitted in designated areas by permission from the area manager, park ranger, lake manager, park superintendent, or national forest supervisor. Such camping is subject to the limitations prescribed in the permit if required.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Camping and use of trailers or other camper units in Tennessee state forests administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Division of Forestry.
      “Camping and the use of trailers or other camper units are allowed only at designated locations. The district forester will issue written permits to persons to camp in backcountry or other isolated sections of a forest area.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A tiny or other non-traditional residential structure that is partially completed off-site and transported to a Tennessee site, if it meets the State Fire Marshal's stated criteria.

    • Only the exterior walls, floor, and roof systems may be constructed off-site and they must comply with the 2018 IRC.
    • No electrical or plumbing systems may be installed at transport.
    • All structural components must be visible at transport.
    • The structure must comply with all inspection, permit, and code requirements applicable to one- and two-family dwellings.
    • The structure must be placed on an appropriately anchored foundation or engineered concrete piers.
    • If the jurisdiction is monitored by the SFMO, all traditional one- and two-family dwelling permit and inspection requirements apply; if monitored by a local building official, that jurisdiction's requirements apply.
    • The guidance states that ready-removables may not be modified for residential, recreational, or emergency housing under Tennessee Code Annotated § 68-126-311.
    “Only the structure’s exterior walls, floor, and roof systems are constructed off-site and are constructed in accordance with the 2018 International Residential Code (“IRC”);”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Tennessee subsurface sewage disposal system construction permitting and related SSDS administration statewide.

    • The Tennessee Division of Water Resources administers SSDS permitting in non-contract counties.
    • Permit packages and Certificate of Completion packages for sites in contract counties are submitted directly to the contract county.
    • The listed contract counties are Blount, Davidson, Hamilton, Jefferson, Knox, Madison, Sevier, Shelby, and Williamson.
    • Installer permits are valid statewide, but contract counties may require an additional permit.
    “Permit packages and Certificate of Completion Packages for sites located in the contract counties listed below should be submitted directly to the contract county.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Subsurface sewage disposal services applicable to properties in Crockett County.
      “NOTE: Some counties provide ground water protection services for their own areas. The online application form is not to be submitted for services requested in the following metropolitan or contact counties: Blount County, Davidson County/Nashville, Hamilton County, Jefferson County, Knox County, Madison County, Sevier County, Shelby County, Williamson County.”
    • State (with conditions) — Subsurface sewage disposal systems, including installations and repair of faulty systems.
      “Completed application forms and application fees should be sent to the Division of Water Resources at the appropriate Environmental Field Office. A detailed review of the application is conducted, and the applicant is notified when the review is complete.”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Statewide subsurface sewage disposal system permitting and assistance, with specified contract counties providing ground water protection services in their own areas.
      “NOTE: Some counties provide ground water protection services for their own areas. The online application form is not to be submitted for services requested in the following metropolitan or contact counties: Blount County, Davidson County/Nashville, Hamilton County, Jefferson County, Knox County, Madison County, Sevier County, Shelby County, Williamson County.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of a subsurface sewage disposal system or repair of an existing faulty system in Crockett County, under Tennessee's statewide SSDS permitting program.

    • TDEC states that an individual or property owner installing a septic system or repairing an existing faulty system must obtain a Septic System Construction Permit.
    • Completed applications and fees are sent to the appropriate Environmental Field Office; review generally takes 10 days and must be completed within 45 days.
    • New conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe permits cost $400 up to 1,000 gallons per day, plus $100 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day; conventional construction inspection is $100.
    • New alternative SSDS permits cost $500 up to 1,000 gallons per day, plus $150 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day; alternative construction inspection is $200.
    • Experimental SSDS permits cost $500; repair permits have no permit fee and repair construction inspection costs $100.
    • The applicant must notify the Department of changes to application information, comply with applicable state statutes and regulations, and notify the Division when installation is complete so it can be inspected and approved.
    • Installer permits are statewide, but contract counties may require an additional installer permit; Crockett County is not listed among the contract counties on the cited page.

    review time: 10 days generally (must be completed within 45 days of submission) · new conventional SSDS permit: 400 USD (up to 1000 gallons per day design flow) · additional conventional flow: 100 USD per additional 1000 gpd · conventional construction inspection: 100 USD · new alternative SSDS permit: 500 USD (up to 1000 gallons per day design flow) · additional alternative flow: 150 USD per additional 1000 gpd · alternative construction inspection: 200 USD · experimental SSDS permit: 500 USD · repair permit fee: 0 USD (repair construction inspection costs $100) · repair construction inspection: 100 USD

    “Any individual or property owner who desires to have a subsurface sewage disposal (septic) system installed on their property or requiring repair to an existing faulty system must get a Septic System Construction Permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, modification, or repair of residential, commercial, or industrial septic systems in Tennessee.
      “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system. This permit ensures that the septic system design complies with state regulations and safeguards your health by properly managing wastewater.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation of subsurface sewage disposal systems in Tennessee.

    • The installer must notify the Division when installation is complete.
    • A final inspection is scheduled before the system is covered.
    • TDEC inspects each SSDS installation for compliance with permit conditions and regulatory requirements.
    • Inspection fees vary by system type: $100 for new conventional or large-diameter graveless pipe systems, $200 for alternative systems, and $100 for repair construction inspections.

    new conventional construction inspection fee: 100 USD · alternative construction inspection fee: 200 USD · repair construction inspection fee: 100 USD

    “The applicant or SSDS installer must notify the Division when a system has been installed so that it can be inspected and approved.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installed septic systems in Crockett County.
      “When installation is complete, the installer will contact the local Environmental Scientist to schedule a final inspection before the system is covered. If the septic system installation is approved, the Environmental Scientist will issue a Certificate of Completion.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Development in or near mapped floodplains throughout Tennessee, insofar as Tennessee's statewide floodplain-management guidance describes locally administered requirements.

    • Floodplain development requirements are managed locally by the community where the property is located.
    • Each NFIP-participating community has a local floodplain administrator who helps manage development in mapped flood hazard areas.
    • If the property is inside city limits, contact the city floodplain administrator; if outside city limits, contact the county floodplain administrator.
    • Local review may be required before development begins in a regulated floodplain.
    • Requirements vary by community and are based on the local floodplain management ordinance and flood zones mapped in that community.
    • Development activity that may require local review includes construction, repairs, substantial improvements, placement of fill, grading, excavation, manufactured homes, accessory structures, or other development activity.
    • Floodplain management ordinances are adopted, administered, and enforced by the local community, not by TEMA.

    local review before development in a regulated floodplain: may be required (Requirements vary by community and mapped flood zone.)

    “Floodplain development requirements are managed locally. Each community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program has a local floodplain administrator who helps manage development in mapped flood hazard areas. [...] If the property is inside city limits, contact the city floodplain administrator. If the property is outside city limits, contact the county floodplain administrator. [...] Local review may be required before development begins in a regulated floodplain. Requirements vary by community and are based on the local floodplain management ordinance and flood zones mapped in that community.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    County legislative bodies adopting zoning regulations for portions of Tennessee counties outside municipal corporations.

    • The authority is exercised under the conditions and procedures in Tennessee Code Annotated §§ 13-7-101 through 13-7-119.
    • The grant applies to portions of counties outside municipal corporations.
    • County zoning authority does not authorize county building permits or regulation of buildings or structures on agricultural land when the building or structure is incidental to the agricultural enterprise, except on agricultural lands adjacent or in proximity to state federal-aid highways, public airports or public parks.
    • The agricultural-land limitation applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
    “Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-101, et seq., the General Assembly has expressly delegated the authority to county legislative bodies to enact zoning regulations and create a board of zoning appeals.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Inspections — Building inspections in Crockett County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Crockett County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in Crockett County.
  • Living in an RV — Long-term or permanent RV occupancy in Crockett County.
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory-dwelling occupancy in Crockett County.
3 more unanswered
  • Off-grid sanitation
  • Well permit
  • 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 Crockett County, Tennessee

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

Crockett County scores 59/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: about 94,258 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Crockett County, Tennessee?

Crockett County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Division of Water Resources. 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 Crockett County, Tennessee?

Land in Crockett County runs about $4,729 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Crockett County?

Crockett County gets about 54.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 6.8% of years.

How remote is Crockett County?

A representative private-land location has about 94,258 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,576,748 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 Crockett compares in Tennessee

Compare side-by-side →See all 95 Tennessee counties ranked →