Bolthole Index

Cumberland County, Tennessee

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Cumberland County, Tennessee

74Index Score / 100
#38 of 95 in Tennessee

Cumberland County, Tennessee requires a county building permit for residential new construction and county-regulated commercial work, issued by the Cumberland County Codes Department under codes effective in 202412. Zoning varies by jurisdiction: Crossville has limited subject-specific zoning rather than general residential, commercial or industrial districts, and we could not confirm a general county zoning ordinance for unincorporated land34. Septic permits for every parcel come from TDEC, not the county or Crossville5.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for residential new construction and county-regulated commercial work1
Building codes
County adopted residential and commercial codes effective in 20242
Inspections
Required for new homes and specified commercial work6
Zoning
Varies by jurisdiction; Crossville has limited subject-specific zoning34
Septic permit
Required through TDEC for construction, modification or repair57
Agricultural buildings
County permit exemption available, but other requirements may apply8
Owner-builder
Available for one owner-occupied home every two years, subject to conditions9
Septic-friendly soils
Only 4.6% of soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional drain field10

Who to call

Building permits

Cumberland County Codes Department

Building, plumbing, mechanical and floodplain permits, plan review and inspections for new residential and commercial construction outside the City of Crossville

(931) 710-5727

codes@cumberlandcountytn.gov

1760 S Main Street, Crossville, TN 38555

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Cumberland County Planning Commission

The county road list and subdivision-related road-standard matters; the office to ask about zoning status for a specific Cumberland County parcel

931-979-2170

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 Cumberland 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 Cumberland County, Tennessee?

Yes. Cumberland County requires a building permit for residential new construction and for county-regulated commercial work1. A new home also requires plumbing and mechanical, HVAC or gas-piping permits1. Cumberland County's residential and commercial codes took effect in 2024; residential work uses the 2018 International Residential Code with local amendments and deletions2. The county inspects new residential construction but excludes residential remodels and additions from the inspection scope stated in the adopting resolution; specified commercial construction and occupancy-change work is inspected6. Agricultural buildings, plus accessory buildings, garages and decks that are not part of new residential construction, are exempt from permits under that resolution2. Confirm the exemption with the Codes Department before work begins.

Who issues building permits in Cumberland County, and how do you reach the Codes Department?

The Cumberland County Codes Department is the local building office for county-regulated work outside the City of Crossville11. Call (931) 710-5727, email codes@cumberlandcountytn.gov or visit 1760 S Main Street in Crossville11. Applications may be filed there or through the county's online permit portal12. A complete application may require address verification, a septic permit and layout, construction plans, and a homeowner affidavit when applicable; a state-licensed general contractor must establish an account before pulling permits12. County fees vary by project valuation and square footage; a $100 re-inspection fee applies after two no-charge re-inspections13. An owner-occupant may act as general contractor on one personal residence every two years, but the home cannot be for resale, lease or rent, and hired contractors must be licensed9. Inside Crossville the city uses ICC building codes, so confirm with the city codes department before assuming the county's rules apply14.

Does Cumberland County have zoning, and who sets zoning rules?

Land-use controls vary across Cumberland County, so the parcel's jurisdiction matters3. We could not confirm a general countywide zoning ordinance for unincorporated land; ask the Planning Commission at 931-979-2170 about the parcel1516. Crossville has zoning for airports, floodplains, signs, mobile homes and mobile-home parks, but no general residential, commercial or industrial districts417. County subdivision rules apply outside the Crossville planning jurisdiction and the municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill18. Within that county planning jurisdiction, subdivision lots have road setbacks of 30, 40 or 50 feet depending on road class and side and rear setbacks of 10 feet19. Residential subdivision minimum lot area ranges from 6,000 square feet with public water and sewer to 2 acres with private water and septic20.

Who issues septic permits in Cumberland County, and how do they work?

TDEC handles septic permitting in Cumberland County, not the county Codes Department5. A state septic permit is required to construct, modify or repair a system serving residential, commercial or industrial property7. Tennessee advises obtaining the septic permit before starting dirt work or construction of any building, including the building pad21. Obtain the septic approval early also because the county permit application may require the septic permit and layout12. After installation, the installer must arrange TDEC's final inspection before covering the system; an approved installation receives a Certificate of Completion22. Only 4.6% of Cumberland County soils rate free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so establish a workable system and reserve area before committing to a homesite10. In county-regulated subdivisions, lots using private water and private sewage disposal generally require at least 2 acres, subject to the Environmentalist and site conditions20.

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

We could not confirm a Cumberland County rule for long-term RV occupancy, temporary camping, tiny-home occupancy or manufactured-home occupancy on private land. Ask both the Cumberland County Codes Department and Planning Commission about the exact parcel and proposed use before placing or occupying a unit1116. Crossville separately regulates mobile homes and mobile-home parks, so land inside the city needs a city-specific answer4. A tiny home used as a dwelling should not be treated as permit-exempt merely because it is small: Cumberland County requires permits for residential new construction in the county's jurisdiction1. Any septic system must go through the state permit process7. We could not confirm a general minimum dwelling size or rules for off-grid sanitation; ask the two county offices before buying or building.

Building a home in Cumberland County: what are the steps, in order?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is in the county planning jurisdiction, Crossville, Crab Orchard or Pleasant Hill because land-use rules vary3.
  2. If land is being divided, submit the required plat before recording or selling a lot and verify the applicable lot size, setbacks and access18201923.
  3. Have TDEC approve the septic system and obtain the layout needed for the county application712.
  4. Assemble the plans and homeowner affidavit if applicable, then apply online or in person129.
  5. Obtain the building, plumbing and mechanical permits required for a new home1.
  6. Schedule the required inspections; the county will not schedule them without a permit24.
  7. Pass final inspection and receive the certificate of occupancy before moving in furniture or occupying the home25.

What should you check before buying land in Cumberland County, Tennessee?

Start with septic suitability: only 4.6% of Cumberland County soils rate free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field10. Confirm the parcel's jurisdiction and whether subdivision review applies, because county subdivision rules exclude the Crossville planning jurisdiction, Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill18. New subdivision lots in the county planning jurisdiction generally need at least 50 feet of road frontage, while a qualifying cul-de-sac lot may have 30 feet; a narrow access easement must meet separate conditions23. Where public water or sewer is reasonably accessible in a county-regulated subdivision, the subdivider must connect each lot, and a sewer line within 300 feet triggers a subdivision sewer connection requirement26. For a driveway on state right-of-way, TDOT requires a permit27. Cumberland County's median property-tax bill is about $699 per year at an effective rate near 0.3%2829. Floodplain development in Tennessee is managed by the local community's floodplain administrator, the city's inside city limits and the county's outside them30.

Watch-outs

  • Do not begin work before permits are issued: Cumberland County will not schedule required inspections without a permit24.
  • Do not occupy the structure or move in furniture until it passes final inspection and receives a certificate of occupancy25.
  • TDEC must inspect a septic installation before it is covered, and approval results in a Certificate of Completion22.
  • Crossville, Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill are outside the county subdivision regulations' stated jurisdiction, so do not apply county subdivision lot sizes or setbacks to property there18.

Sources

  1. General Information for Builders, quoted and re-checked
  2. Resolution to Adopt Residential and Commercial Building Codes for Cumberland County, quoted and re-checked
  3. Cumberland County Subdivision Regulations 2023 amendments, quoted and re-checked
  4. Zoning Information – City of Crossville, quoted and re-checked
  5. Codes Department – Cumberland County, quoted and re-checked
  6. Resolution to Adopt Residential and Commercial Building Codes for Cumberland County, quoted and re-checked
  7. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  8. Resolution to Adopt Residential and Commercial Building Codes for Cumberland County, quoted and re-checked
  9. Homeowner’s Affidavit for Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  10. 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
  11. Cumberland County Codes Department (cumberlandcountytn.gov)
  12. Contractor Information Packet - 1-27-2025, quoted and re-checked
  13. Exhibit B - Schedule of Permit Fees, quoted and re-checked
  14. Zoning Information – City of Crossville, quoted and re-checked
  15. (2026 county census)
  16. Cumberland County Planning Commission (cumberlandcountytn.gov)
  17. Zoning Information – City of Crossville, quoted and re-checked
  18. Cumberland County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  19. Cumberland County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  20. Cumberland County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  21. Online Application for Septic Related Services, quoted and re-checked
  22. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  23. Cumberland County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  24. cumberlandcountytn.gov, quoted and re-checked
  25. cumberlandcountytn.gov, quoted and re-checked
  26. Cumberland County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  27. Highway Entrance Permits (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Statewide Floodplain Administrator Directory (Tennessee statewide rule), 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, Cumberland County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleCumberland CountyMorgan CountyRhea CountyRoane CountyWhite CountyFentress CountyPutnam County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequired
County zoningNot publishedYesYesYesNot publishedNoNo
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTN TDEC

County locator

Cumberland County in Tennessee

74
County map
Cumberland County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Cumberland County scores

Seclusion47100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency70100% ev.
Admin Boringness5177% ev.
Durability72100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost82100% ev.

Evidence strength: 96%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$314kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$5,023Land / acre
59.2"Annual rain
5.1% of yrsSevere drought
1.5 / yr (+1.5)Mid-century 100°F days
12.7 daysMid-century dry spell
2.47" (+8.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.61×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,497Home insurance / yr
-0.6% / yrInsurance growth
0.8%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
40,749People within 30 min
3,393,460People within 2 hr
68,862Radius comparison (15 mi)
95.1People / sq mi
0%Federal land
66.9%Land at 15% slope or less
4.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
19,759 acWorkable land screen
74.8%Wooded land
60.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
55.6°FAvg temp

Scout Cumberland 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 Cumberland 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 Cumberland 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: Crab Orchard · Town of Pleasant Hill

Answers from the rulebook for Cumberland County

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

Cumberland County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction requiring a Cumberland County building permit.

    • The county builder guide requires specified documentation to apply for a building permit.
    • The guide states that inspections will not be scheduled without a permit.
    “Permit Requirements: For Residential New Construction Dwellings: ● Building Permit ● Plumbing Permit ● Mechanical/HVAC/Gas Piping Permit”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    An owner-occupant performing work on a single residence under a Cumberland County homeowner building permit.

    • The owner must occupy the property.
    • The work must be for the owner's use and not for resale, lease, or rent.
    • The owner may perform work on one single residence once every two years.
    • Hired persons must show proof of license; a construction manager must be properly licensed.
    • The owner becomes the general contractor and is responsible for all work and inspections.

    frequency: per 1 residence per 2 years (owner-occupied property for personal use only)

    “Pursuant T.C.A. 62 6 103, an owner that occupies a property may perform work on a single residence once every two (2) years, for their use, and not for resale, lease, or rent. Anyone hired by the homeowner would be considered a prime contractor or a construction manager, and they are not exempt from the license requirements.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    Residential and commercial construction regulated by Cumberland County building codes.

    • Residential new construction is addressed separately from remodels and additions.
    • Commercial new, addition, and alteration or repair projects are addressed.
    • The resolution adopts specified 2018 codes with stated amendments and exceptions.

    commercial code edition: 2018 edition (specified code amendments apply) · residential code edition: 2018 edition (specified code amendments apply)

    “NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners hereby approves and adopts the above listed Residential and Commercial Building Codes for Cumberland County effective January 1, 2024”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted — Cumberland County residential and commercial construction subject to the adopted county codes.
      “NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners hereby approves and adopts the above listed Residential and Commercial Building Codes for Cumberland County effective January 1, 2024 along with the Construction Cost Table and Permit Fee Schedule attached hereto as Exhibit A and B.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Structures subject to Cumberland County building-code inspections.

    • The guide states that the following inspections are required for all structures.
    • Inspections cannot be scheduled without a permit.
    • Before inspections, the site must have a visible 911 address, posted building permit, portable restroom, access path, and erosion-control measures; additional design or engineering documentation is required in specified cases.
    “The following inspections are required for ALL structures: 1. FOOTING (before concrete is ordered or poured)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New residential construction and new, addition, alteration, or repair construction involving change in occupancy for commercial properties.
      “WHEREAS, Cumberland County must have a building code in place to inspect new residential construction excluding remodels and/or additions; and WHEREAS, Cumberland County must have a building code in place to inspect new, additions, and alterations/repairs (change in occupancy) to commercial properties;”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Structures subject to Cumberland County final inspection requirements.

    • A final inspection must be passed before issuance.
    • The structure cannot be occupied and furniture cannot be moved in before the certificate is issued.
    “CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY WILL BE ISSUED ONCE FINAL INSPECTION IS PASSED. STRUCTURE CANNOT BE OCCUPIED NOR FURNITURE MOVED IN PRIOR TO C.O. BEING ISSUED.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Countywide aggregate of local land-use controls, including county subdivision regulations and municipal or regional planning jurisdictions; this does not mean Cumberland County administers each local ordinance.

    • The Cumberland County subdivision regulations govern subdivisions within the county boundary except areas under the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and the municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.
    • Crossville has limited zoning ordinances for airports, floodplains, signs, mobile homes, and mobile-home parks, but no generally applicable commercial, industrial, or residential zoning districts.
    • Building permits and other building-code requirements remain separate from zoning.
    “The City of Crossville currently only has zoning ordinances pertaining to the airport, floodplains, signs, mobile homes and mobile home parks. We have no ordinances, which specify commercial, industrial, residential or other areas.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Residential lots in subdivisions governed by the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission.

    • Public water and public sanitary sewer: minimum 6,000 square feet and 60-foot width at building setback line.
    • Public water and private sewage disposal: minimum 20,000 square feet and 80-foot width; the Environmentalist may determine otherwise.
    • Private water and private sewage disposal: minimum 2 acres and 100-foot width; the Environmentalist may determine otherwise.
    • Greater area may be required because of drainage, soil conditions, or other conditions creating potential health problems.
    • The regulations exclude areas under the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.

    minimum lot area: 6000 square feet (public water and public sanitary sewer) · minimum lot area: 20000 square feet (public water and private sewage disposal; Environmentalist may determine otherwise) · minimum lot area: 2 acres (private water and private sewage disposal; Environmentalist may determine otherwise)

    “Residential lots served by public water and public sanitary sewer systems: Minimum area = 6000 sq. ft. Minimum width at building setback line = 60 ft.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Building setback lines for subdivisions governed by the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission.

    • Road setback is 30 feet for local roads, 40 feet for collector roads, and 50 feet for arterial roads.
    • Side and rear setback is 10 feet.
    • Combination-plat exceptions may allow existing setbacks if the existing plat is presented and the new lots are not on a major arterial or collector road.
    • The Planning Commission may deny a combination plat if a safety hazard would be created.
    • The regulations exclude areas under the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.

    local-road setback: 30 feet · collector-road setback: 40 feet · arterial-road setback: 50 feet · side and rear setback: 10 feet

    “The minimum depth of building setback lines from the abutting road right-of-way shall be as follows: Local Roads 30 ft. Collector Roads 40 ft. Arterial Roads 50 ft. b. The building setback line from the side and rear lot lines shall be 10 feet.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater (with conditions)

    Subdivision lots within the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission's jurisdiction that are not served by a public water supply.

    • The Planning Commission determines the accessibility of the nearest public water system and whether connections are required.
    • Land without accessibility to a public water supply or without an adequate approved water system is generally deemed unsuitable for subdivision development until such a system can be provided.
    • The Planning Commission may permit lots not served by a public water supply if the lots are over two acres.
    • The regulations exclude areas under the jurisdiction of the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and the municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.

    lot size for possible public-water exception: > 2 acres

    “The Planning Commission may permit lots not served by a public water supply if such lots are over two (2) acres in size.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Subdivisions governed by the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission regulations.
      “Where a public sanitary sewer and/or a public water supply system are reasonably accessible, the subdivider shall connect with such system(s) and provide connections to each lot. Where the sewer system is not available, as determined in accordance with Section E.4.a. of Article III, an alternate method of sewage disposal may be used if it meets all applicable public health regulations.”
    • Water and sewer (with conditions) — Subdivisions within the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission's jurisdiction where a public sanitary sewer and/or public water supply system is reasonably accessible.
      “Where a public sanitary sewer and/or a public water supply system are reasonably accessible, the subdivider shall connect with such system(s) and provide connections to each lot.”
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Subdivisions within the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission's jurisdiction that are within 300 feet of an existing public sewer line.
      “In all cases where the subdivision is within three-hundred (300) feet of an existing sewer line, connection will be made by the subdivider and a sewer system installed within the subdivision.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agriculture buildings under Cumberland County’s adopted building-code resolution.

    • The exemption is stated for agriculture buildings requiring permits.
    • Other building-code and land-use requirements may still apply.
    “WHEREAS, agriculture buildings shall be exempt from requiring permits;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land within Cumberland County's planning jurisdiction.

    • The regulations exclude areas under the jurisdiction of the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and the municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.
    • Subdivision means division into two or more lots or divisions requiring new street or utility construction, or division of less than five acres for sale or building development.
    • A plat must be submitted and approved before recording or selling a lot.
    • A final-only plat may be used when there are no more than five lots, all public improvements are installed, TDEC has approved lots for septic where applicable, and the Staff Planner agrees a preliminary plat is unnecessary.

    small-division threshold: < 5 acres (The regulation also covers divisions requiring new street or utility construction regardless of acreage.) · final-only plat maximum: <= 5 lots/sites/tracts/divisions (All stated conditions must be met.)

    “These regulations shall govern all subdivision of land within the county boundary, excepting those areas falling under the jurisdiction of the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and the municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land within the Cumberland County boundary under the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission regulations.
      “These regulations shall govern all subdivision of land within the county boundary, excepting those areas falling under the jurisdiction of the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and the municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land within the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission planning jurisdiction.
      “These regulations shall govern all subdivision of land within the county boundary, excepting those areas falling under the jurisdiction of the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and the municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Access for new lots in subdivisions governed by the Cumberland County Regional Planning Commission.

    • New lots generally require at least 50 feet of road frontage.
    • Lots on a cul-de-sac require at least 30 feet of road frontage.
    • An ingress/egress easement may substitute only if it is at least 25 feet wide, serves one property, reaches a county-maintained road or State/Federal Highway, and crosses only one parcel.
    • The regulations exclude areas under the Crossville Regional Planning Commission and municipalities of Crab Orchard and Pleasant Hill.

    standard road frontage: >= 50 feet (cul-de-sac lots require at least 30 feet) · cul-de-sac road frontage: >= 30 feet · ingress/egress easement width: >= 25 feet (must serve one property, connect to qualifying road, and cross one parcel)

    “All proposed new lots shall be required to have at least fifty (50) feet of road frontage with the exception of lots located on a cul-de-sac, of which at least thirty (30) feet of road frontage would be required.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Cumberland County building, plumbing, mechanical, re-inspection, and special plumbing/mechanical license fees.

    • Building fees vary by building or project valuation.
    • Plumbing and mechanical inspection fees vary by square footage.
    • The re-inspection fee applies after two re-inspections at no charge.
    • The special plumbing/mechanical license is annual; projects over $25,000 require a state-certified license.
    • Valuation is determined from the 2018 IBC SF Construction Cost.

    building fee for valuation $1,000 or less: 25 USD · plumbing and mechanical inspection fee for first 1,000 square feet: 30 USD (plus $15.00 for each additional thousand square feet or fraction) · re-inspection fee: 100 USD (after two re-inspections at no charge) · special plumbing/mechanical license: per 50 USD (annually)

    “Plumbing & Mechanical Inspection Fee - $30.00 for the first 1,000 square feet, plus $15.00 for each additional thousand square feet or fraction. Re-inspection Fee - $100.00 per re-inspection after two re-inspections at no charge.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Cumberland County building, plumbing, mechanical, re-inspection, and special plumbing/mechanical license fees.
      “Plumbing & Mechanical Inspection Fee - $30.00 for the first 1,000 square feet, plus $15.00 for each additional thousand square feet or fraction. Re-inspection Fee - $100.00 per re-inspection after two re-inspections at no charge. Special Plumbing/Mechanical License - $50.00 annually.”
  • Permit processPublished

    Cumberland County residential and commercial building permit applications.

    • Applications may be made in person or online.
    • Required documents include address verification, septic permit and layout, construction plans, and a homeowner affidavit when applicable.
    • State-licensed general contractors must establish an account before pulling permits.
    “Permits can be applied for in person at 1760 South Main St, Crossville, TN or online at: https://cumberlandcountytn.portal.iworq.net/portalhome/cumberlandcountytn”

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • 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.”
  • 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) — Tennessee Division of Water Resources administration of septic-system permits and related services applicable in Cumberland County.
      “A Septic System Repair Permit is required before any work on a failing septic system is performed. The Division of Water Resources will design a repair for the failing septic system and will issue a septic system repair permit.”
    • State (with conditions) — Septic permitting and final inspection for Cumberland County properties.
      “Septic Permit – The State of Tennessee issues septic permits. More information on that process can be found here:”
    • 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

    Construction, installation, modification, or repair of residential, commercial, or industrial septic systems in Tennessee.

    • A permit is required before construction, modification, or repair.
    • A septic system permit should be obtained before starting dirt work or construction of any building, including the building pad.
    • Repair permits have no permit fee.
    • Alternative systems require an extra-high intensity soils map prepared by a Tennessee-licensed soils consultant.
    • Contract counties may require an additional permit.

    new conventional SSDS permit fee: 400 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($100 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · new alternative SSDS permit fee: 500 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($150 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · experimental SSDS permit fee: 500 USD · repair permit fee: 0 USD (Repair construction inspection fee is $100)

    “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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation, repair, modification, or alternative septic systems serving property in Cumberland County.
      “A Conventional Septic System Permit is required for the installation of a conventional septic system (or approved substitute product) to serve a residence, retail or commercial building.”
    • Required — Construction, modification, or repair of septic systems serving properties in Cumberland County.
      “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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Septic system installations in Cumberland County regulated by TDEC.
      “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.”
    • Required — New septic installations in Cumberland 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Cumberland County

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building-code administration within the City of Crossville.

    • The Crossville zoning page states that the city uses ICC Building Codes.
    • Specific code editions and applicability should be confirmed with the city codes department.
    “There are requirements for the subdivision of property and for building permits, sign permits and etc. There are limited setback requirements and the City of Crossville uses the ICC Building Codes. There are no parking or density requirements.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    City of Crossville municipal limits.

    • Zoning ordinances are limited to the airport, floodplains, signs, mobile homes, and mobile home parks.
    • The city has no ordinances specifying commercial, industrial, residential, or other general areas.
    • The city states that subdivision and building-permit requirements still apply and that limited setback requirements exist.
    • Deed restrictions or restrictive covenants may apply but are not within the codes department's jurisdiction.
    “The City of Crossville currently only has zoning ordinances pertaining to the airport, floodplains, signs, mobile homes and mobile home parks. We have no ordinances, which specify commercial, industrial, residential or other areas.”
  • Zoning districtsNot published (with conditions)

    General commercial, industrial, residential, and other zoning districts in the City of Crossville.

    • Crossville has limited subject-specific zoning ordinances for the airport, floodplains, signs, mobile homes, and mobile home parks.
    • The city states that it has no ordinances specifying commercial, industrial, residential, or other general areas.
    “The City of Crossville currently only has zoning ordinances pertaining to the airport, floodplains, signs, mobile homes and mobile home parks. We have no ordinances, which specify commercial, industrial, residential or other areas.”

Still unanswered

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

  • County-wide zoning — Countywide zoning authority and ordinance coverage in Cumberland County, Tennessee.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size rules in Cumberland County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage rules in Cumberland County.
  • Building height — Building-height rules in Cumberland County.
  • Living in an RV — Long-term RV occupancy on private land in Cumberland County.
6 more unanswered
  • Tiny homes
  • Manufactured homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • 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 Cumberland County, Tennessee

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

Cumberland County scores 74/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and 23 operating mines.

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

Cumberland County generally requires a residential building permit. Onsite septic is permitted by Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). 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 Cumberland County, Tennessee?

Land in Cumberland County runs about $5,023 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Cumberland County?

Cumberland County gets about 59.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 5.1% of years.

How remote is Cumberland County?

A representative private-land location has about 40,749 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,393,460 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 Cumberland compares in Tennessee

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