Bolthole Index

Grundy County, Tennessee

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

75Index Score / 100
#34 of 95 in Tennessee

Grundy County, Tennessee does not require a county residential building permit for a home1. The county has opted out of Tennessee's State Residential Building Program, although an owner or contractor may choose the state permit-and-inspection pathway23. TDEC still requires a permit and final inspection for a new or repaired septic system45.

At a glance

Residential building permit
No county permit required; Grundy County is OPT OUT1
Optional state inspection
Available by request through the State Fire Marshal's Office6
Countywide zoning
Countywide status is unconfirmed; Monteagle has municipal zoning78
Septic permit
Required through TDEC for installation or repair4
RV or tiny-home living
No countywide occupancy rule could be confirmed9
Owner-builder
Allowed for a home for the owner's use, subject to state limits10
Private well
Use a state-licensed driller; a separate owner permit could not be confirmed11

Who to call

Building permits

Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office — Residential Permits

Optional state residential permits and requested inspections in opt-out Grundy County.

615-427-9586

kvari.inspections@gmail.com

Online permits →

Septic permits

TDEC Division of Water Resources — Chattanooga Environmental Field Office

Water-resources questions, including septic-related services, for Grundy County.

(423) 634-5745

1301 Riverfront Parkway | Suite #206 | Chattanooga, TN 37402

Also useful

Grundy County Mayor's Office

General county-government questions about current local ordinances and land-use administration.

( 931) 692-3718

68 Cumberland Street, Suite 133 Altamont, TN 37301

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 7, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

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

Grundy County does not require a county residential building permit for a home1. Grundy County is OPT OUT of Tennessee's State Residential Building Program for one- and two-family dwellings2. Altamont, Beersheba Springs, Coalmont, Gruetli-Laager, Palmer and Tracy City are also OPT OUT, while Monteagle is EXEMPT, so verify the jurisdiction for land inside municipal limits12.

An owner or contractor may obtain an optional state building permit and request a State Fire Marshal inspection3. If the requested inspections show that the dwelling meets statewide safety standards, the state can release a Certificate of Occupancy13. The optional state permit does not replace septic, electrical, grading, floodplain or zoning approval3.

Who handles building permits and inspections in Grundy County?

For the optional residential permit and requested inspection, contact the Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office using the Grundy County contact in the state table14. Grundy County's OPT OUT status means the county passed a resolution leaving the state residential-code program14. The state list concerns one- and two-family dwellings and does not establish a commercial-building process15.

The published fees and standard inspection sequence for participating jurisdictions do not establish a Grundy County fee schedule or mandatory process because Grundy County is OPT OUT1617. Septic questions go to TDEC's Chattanooga Environmental Field Office18. For current county ordinances or the correct local official for zoning, floodplain or road access, start with the Grundy County Mayor's Office9.

Does Grundy County, Tennessee have zoning?

We could not confirm Grundy County's current countywide zoning status from a county page, even though the available record indicates no comprehensive countywide zoning7. Before relying on an unincorporated parcel being unzoned, ask the Grundy County Mayor's Office whether a current ordinance, resolution, subdivision rule, setback or floodplain standard applies9.

Municipal rules can differ: Monteagle has zoning districts regulating land uses and such details as building location, size, yards and lot occupancy within its corporate limits8. Tennessee law gives county legislative bodies zoning authority outside municipalities19. State law conditionally exempts a building on agricultural land when it is incidental to the agricultural enterprise, but the exemption has location and floodplain exceptions and does not apply to municipal rules20.

How do septic permits work in Grundy County?

TDEC's Division of Water Resources, rather than Grundy County, administers septic applications, inspections and approvals through the state process21. A property owner must obtain a Septic System Construction Permit before installing a system or repairing a failing one4. After installation, the installer must notify TDEC so the system can be inspected and approved5.

Only 15.7% of Grundy County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make soil evaluation an early purchase contingency22. Alternative off-grid wastewater systems remain subject to TDEC permitting and construction inspection, and unfavorable sites may require a soils map or engineered design23. A qualifying utility may require sewer connection for a building on a parcel abutting a public way with sanitary sewer, but that does not establish a requirement for every Grundy County parcel24.

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

A countywide Grundy County rule for living in an RV, temporary camping or occupying a tiny home on private land could not be confirmed. Ask the Grundy County Mayor's Office about the parcel and intended use before placing or occupying either dwelling9. Inside Monteagle, municipal zoning regulates land use and development, so check the town's rules for the parcel8.

Do not treat OPT OUT status as permission for every land use: it addresses the residential building-code program, not zoning, sanitation or floodplain approval3. A tiny home or RV still needs a lawful sewage solution; alternative systems are regulated and septic installation or repair requires a state permit234. Minimum dwelling size, setbacks, lot size, accessory dwellings and manufactured-home occupancy remain unconfirmed, so ask about each before closing.

Building a home in Grundy County: the steps in order

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or municipal because residential-code status varies12.
  1. Ask the County Mayor's Office or municipality about zoning, subdivision, setbacks, floodplain and local access; Monteagle has its own zoning ordinance98.
  1. Ask the serving utility whether public sewer is available and whether connection is required; qualifying utilities can require certain buildings on abutting parcels to connect24.
  1. If sewer is not required, get a septic evaluation and apply through TDEC before installation or repair4.
  1. Decide whether to use the optional state permit and inspection pathway, then contact the State Fire Marshal's Office14.
  1. Confirm owner-builder conditions: the residence cannot be for sale, lease or rent, and the allowance is one residence every two years25.
  1. Obtain a TDOT permit before constructing or changing a driveway in state-highway right-of-way26.
  1. Have TDEC inspect and approve the septic system after installation5.

What should you check before buying land in Grundy County?

Make septic suitability a contract contingency: only 15.7% of Grundy County soils lack severe conventional-drain-field limitations22. About 81.9% of the county is wooded, while 65.9% has a slope of 15% or less, so inspect the actual homesite and access route2728.

Check the deed, survey, legal access and road ownership; state-highway access requires a TDOT permit26. Ask the county floodplain administrator before work near a mapped floodplain because review is local29. For a private well, use a state-licensed driller and ask TDEC what filings apply; state material confirms driller licensing, inspection authority and a completion report, but not a separate owner-obtained county permit11. Verify county or municipal land-use rules before closing because current zoning and occupancy details could not be confirmed.

Watch-outs

  • OPT OUT addresses the residential-code program only; it does not eliminate septic, electrical, floodplain or zoning approvals3.
  • Current zoning, setbacks, minimum lot and dwelling sizes, and subdivision rules could not be confirmed; ask the Grundy County Mayor's Office9.
  • The septic installer must notify TDEC after installation so the system can be inspected and approved5.

Sources

  1. TN State Fire Marshal - Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors (2026 county census)
  2. Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  3. Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  4. Septic System Construction Permit, quoted and re-checked
  5. Septic System Related Permits, quoted and re-checked
  6. Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  7. Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts - Grundy County Zoning Ruling (2026 county census)
  8. Town of Monteagle Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  9. Grundy County Mayor's Office (grundycountytn.net)
  10. Can I build my own home without a license? (2026 county census)
  11. Well Water, quoted and re-checked
  12. Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  13. Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  14. Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office — Residential Permits (tn.gov)
  15. Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  16. Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  17. Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  18. TDEC Division of Water Resources — Chattanooga Environmental Field Office (tn.gov)
  19. Tennessee Attorney General Opinion No. 10-108 (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  20. Exemption from County Zoning Regulation for Buildings on Land Used for Agriculture, quoted and re-checked
  21. TDEC Division of Water Resources Continuing Planning Process Document, quoted and re-checked
  22. 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
  23. Septic System Construction Permit, quoted and re-checked
  24. Utility Customers Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  25. Residential Permit FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  26. Highway Entrance Permits, quoted and re-checked
  27. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Statewide Floodplain Administrator Directory, quoted and re-checked

Written October 7, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Grundy County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleGrundy CountyMarion CountySequatchie CountyCoffee CountyWarren CountyFranklin CountyVan Buren County
Building permitNot requiredRequiredNot requiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimited
County zoningNoNoNot publishedYesNoYesNo
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDEC

County locator

Grundy County in Tennessee

75
County map
Grundy County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Grundy County scores

Seclusion37100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency70100% ev.
Admin Boringness87100% ev.
Durability67100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost83100% 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 →

$216kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$4,988Land / acre
62.3"Annual rain
5.3% of yrsSevere drought
2.1 / yr (+2)Mid-century 100°F days
13.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.62" (+9.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.52×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,731Home insurance / yr
0.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.75%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
53,490People within 30 min
4,558,640People within 2 hr
35,063Radius comparison (15 mi)
38.7People / sq mi
0%Federal land
65.9%Land at 15% slope or less
15.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
36,153 acWorkable land screen
81.9%Wooded land
44.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
56.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Grundy 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 Altamont · Town of Beersheba Springs · Coalmont · Gruetli-Laager · Town of Monteagle · Town of Palmer · Town of Tracy City

Answers from the rulebook for Grundy County

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

Grundy County rules

  • Building code adoptedPartial

    State residential building-construction-code coverage for one- and two-family dwellings in Grundy County and the listed municipalities.

    • The State Fire Marshal page states that counties and municipalities may exempt one- and two-family dwellings from statewide standards.
    • Grundy County is listed as OPT OUT, meaning the jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program.
    • The State Fire Marshal page states that an owner in an opt-out jurisdiction may request State Fire Marshal inspection during construction.
    • The page states that the information is accurate as of 8/21/2026.
    • Municipal status varies: Altamont, Beersheba Springs, Coalmont, Gruetli-Laager, Palmer, and Tracy City are listed OPT OUT, while Monteagle is listed EXEMPT.
    • This claim concerns residential one- and two-family dwellings; it does not establish commercial-building-code adoption.
    “Grundy County | OPT OUT [...] Monteagle | EXEMPT [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Statewide residential building-construction standards for one- and two-family dwellings in Grundy County.
      “Grundy County | OPT OUT | Kyle Vari | kvari.inspections@gmail.com | 615-427-9586”
    • Partial — Statewide residential building-construction standards for one- and two-family dwellings within Grundy County and its listed municipalities.
      “Grundy County | OPT OUT [...] Monteagle | EXEMPT [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    • Not adopted — Grundy County's participation in Tennessee's State Residential Building Program.
      “Grundy County | OPT OUT | Kyle Vari | kvari.inspections@gmail.com | 615-427-9586 [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Grundy County has not adopted comprehensive county-wide zoning under the Tennessee County Zoning Act; the TN Supreme Court struck down a 2020 county resolution as an improperly enacted zoning ordinance, indicating no valid county zoning framework is in place.

    Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts - Grundy County Zoning Ruling ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

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?”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — One- and two-family dwellings in Grundy County, which the State Fire Marshal's Office lists as an OPT OUT jurisdiction.
      “The owner of a one- or two-family dwelling or the contractor performing work on the dwelling may obtain a state building permit at various locations throughout the state or online at www.tn.gov/commerce/fire/residential-permits.html.”
  • 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).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available — An owner constructing a single residence in Tennessee, including an owner using the state residential permit pathway for an opt-out jurisdiction such as Grundy County.
      “Yes. Pursuant to TCA § 62-6-103, an owner of property may construct a single residence once every two years for his/her own use, as long as it is not for resale, lease or rent without being a licensed contractor. However, anyone hired by the homeowner whose portion is $25,000 or more would not be exempt from the contractors’ licensing requirements.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    State Fire Marshal inspection of one- and two-family dwellings, including new construction and additions, in Grundy County's opt-out jurisdiction.

    • An owner may request the State Fire Marshal's Office inspection; it is not described as mandatory solely because Grundy County is opt out.
    • The inspection determines whether the building, structure, or premises meets statewide building construction safety standards.
    • If the dwelling is determined to meet those standards, the State Fire Marshal's Office releases a Certificate of Occupancy.
    “In 2017, the Tennessee General Assembly passed a law that allows an owner of a building, structure or premises located within an “opt-out” or “non-code” jurisdiction to request the State Fire Marshal’s Office to inspect the building, structure or premises to determine if it meets the statewide building construction safety standards.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Certificate of Occupancy for a one- or two-family dwelling in an opt-out jurisdiction such as Grundy County when the State Fire Marshal's Office performs the requested inspection.

    • The dwelling must be inspected during construction.
    • The State Fire Marshal's Office releases the certificate only if the dwelling is determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards.
    • The source describes this pathway for one- and two-family dwellings in opt-out or non-code jurisdictions, not a universal certificate requirement for every building or occupancy.
    “If the one- or two-family dwelling is determined to meet the statewide building construction safety standards, the State Fire Marshal’s Office will release a Certificate of Occupancy, often referred to as a “CO.””
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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 — Subsurface sewage disposal systems serving property in Grundy County.
      “Completed application forms and application fees should be sent to the Division of Water Resources at the appropriate Environmental Field Office.”
    • State — Subsurface sewage disposal systems, including septic systems, in Grundy County and elsewhere in Tennessee.
      “Permit packages and Certificate of Completion Packages for sites located in the contract counties listed below should be submitted directly to the contract county. Contract Counties: Blount, Davidson, Hamilton, Jefferson, Knox, Madison, Sevier, Shelby & Williamson [...] For all non-contract counties, applications and fee payments for Subsurface Sewage Disposal Construction Permits can be submitted through the service request form.”
    • 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 on property in Grundy County, or repair of an existing faulty septic system.

    • A Septic System Construction Permit is required before installation or repair.
    • A permit may be denied where an accessible public sewerage system exists.
    • The applicant or installer must notify the Division after installation so the system can be inspected and approved.
    • The TDEC page lists a $400 fee for a new conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe SSDS permit up to 1,000 gallons per day, $100 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day, $500 for a new alternative SSDS permit up to 1,000 gallons per day, $150 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day, $500 for an experimental SSDS permit, and no permit fee for a repair permit.
    • Applications for non-contract counties are submitted through the state process.

    new conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe 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

    “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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation of a subsurface sewage disposal system or repair of an existing faulty system on property in Grundy County.
      “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.”
    • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation of a subsurface sewage disposal system in Grundy County.
      “The applicant or SSDS installer must notify the Division when a system has been installed so that it can be inspected and approved.”
    • Required — Permitted septic-system installations in Grundy 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.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Alternative or experimental off-grid wastewater sanitation systems in Grundy County, including alternative subsurface sewage disposal systems.

    • Alternative systems are subject to TDEC permitting and construction inspection.
    • For large conventional or alternative systems, the application may require soils maps prepared by a certified soil scientist and system design by a licensed engineer.
    • The TDEC fee schedule lists a $500 new alternative SSDS permit fee up to 1,000 gallons per day design flow, $150 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day, and a $200 alternative SSDS construction inspection fee.
    • The system must comply with applicable Tennessee statutes and regulations and may be inspected, denied, suspended, or revoked for noncompliance.

    new alternative SSDS permit fee: 500 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($150 for each additional 1000 gallons per day flow) · alternative SSDS construction inspection fee: 200 USD

    “An Alternative Septic System Permit is required for the installation of an alternative septic system (i.e., LPP, Mound, Oxidation Lagoon, ATS/SDD) to serve a residence, retail or commercial building. Alternative septic systems can also serve accessory buildings such as a garage, shop or barn etc. Alternative septic systems are typically used when soil or site conditions are not favorable for a conventional septic system. An extra-high intensity soils map must be submitted to the Division before staff can evaluate any property for an alternative septic system.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Water wells drilled in Grundy County for domestic, irrigation, livestock-watering, or other beneficial uses.

    • The official source establishes statewide licensing of drillers and pump/treatment installers and state inspection authority, but does not describe a separate owner-obtained construction permit on the opened page.
    • A well driller must submit a Tennessee Water Well Drillers Report to TDEC after completion.
    • The source refers to a registration fee paid to the State of Tennessee but does not state the amount or a current Notice of Intent procedure.
    “The Tennessee Water Well Act of 1963 requires all persons drilling a water well to be licensed. A water well is any well for the production of water for beneficial use such as domestic use, irrigation, livestock watering, etc. A person installing a pump or water treatment device on a water well must also be licensed.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Connection of buildings to sanitary sewer systems where a qualifying Tennessee utility system has issued bonds payable for sewer services and the property abuts a street or public way containing a sanitary sewer.

    • The property must abut a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer.
    • A building must exist on the lot or parcel for residential, commercial, or industrial use.
    • The utility system may require connection and cessation of other sewage-disposal methods.
    • For electrical service, written notification must show public sewer service, a septic permit application, or an existing septic system.
    “Utility systems within the State of Tennessee that have issued bonds payable for sewer services are granted authority in TCA § 7-35-201 (1) to "require the owner tenant or occupant of each lot or parcel of land that abuts upon a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer and upon which lot or parcel a building exists for residential, commercial or industrial use, to connect the building with the sanitary sewer and to cease to use any other means for the disposal of sewage, sewage waste or other polluting matter."”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Lots or parcels in Tennessee, including Grundy County, that abut a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer and have a residential, commercial, or industrial building.
      “Utility systems within the State of Tennessee that have issued bonds payable for sewer services are granted authority in TCA § 7-35-201 (1) to "require the owner tenant or occupant of each lot or parcel of land that abuts upon a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer and upon which lot or parcel a building exists for residential, commercial or industrial use, to connect the building with the sanitary sewer and to cease to use any other means for the disposal of sewage, sewage waste or other polluting matter."”
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Residential, commercial, or industrial buildings on lots or parcels in Grundy County that abut a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer, when the applicable Tennessee utility system has issued bonds payable for sewer services.
      “Utility systems within the State of Tennessee that have issued bonds payable for sewer services are granted authority in TCA § 7-35-201 (1) to "require the owner tenant or occupant of each lot or parcel of land that abuts upon a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer and upon which lot or parcel a building exists for residential, commercial or industrial use, to connect the building with the sanitary sewer and to cease to use any other means for the disposal of sewage, sewage waste or other polluting matter."”
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Residential, commercial, or industrial buildings on lots or parcels abutting a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer, where the applicable Tennessee utility system has issued bonds payable for sewer services.
      “Utility systems within the State of Tennessee that have issued bonds payable for sewer services are granted authority in TCA § 7-35-201 (1) to "require the owner tenant or occupant of each lot or parcel of land that abuts upon a street or other public way containing a sanitary sewer and upon which lot or parcel a building exists for residential, commercial or industrial use, to connect the building with the sanitary sewer and to cease to use any other means for the disposal of sewage, sewage waste or other polluting matter."”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Buildings and structures on agricultural land subject to county zoning regulation in Tennessee, including unincorporated Grundy County.

    • The building or structure must be located on lands devoted to agricultural uses.
    • The building or structure must be incidental to the agricultural enterprise.
    • The exemption does not apply to agricultural lands adjacent or in proximity to state federal-aid highways, public airports, or public parks.
    • The exemption does not apply if the land is located within the one-hundred-year flood plain.
    • The Attorney General states that the provision applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
    • There is no blanket exemption for cotton gins, grain elevators, slaughterhouses, processing plants, or milk bottling plants; the structure must satisfy the agricultural-use and incidental-to-the-enterprise requirements.
    • Buildings used as residences by farmers and farm workers are treated as incidental to the agricultural enterprise under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-114.
    • A 2014 Attorney General opinion describes a farm as including a tract of at least fifteen (15) acres engaged in specified production and producing average gross agricultural income of at least $1,500 per year over a three-year period; it states that a family garden is unlikely to qualify under the cited definitions.

    minimum farm acreage under cited voter-registration definition: >= 15 acres (The Attorney General opinion also cites a separate Right to Farm Act definition that does not state a 15-acre threshold.) · average gross agricultural income under cited voter-registration definition: >= 1500 USD per year (Average measured over a three-year period.)

    “To be exempt from county zoning regulation under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-114, a building or structure must meet two requirements: (1) it must be located on lands “devoted to agricultural uses;” and (2) it must be “incidental to the agricultural enterprise.” Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-114(a).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Construction, modification, revision, or change in use of a driveway entrance within the right-of-way of a highway designated as part of Tennessee's state highway system in Grundy County.

    • A TDOT driveway permit is required before construction on state highway right-of-way.
    • The rule applies to state highway rights-of-way and does not establish a permit requirement for every driveway on county or municipal roads.
    • TDOT may issue a permit only when the application complies with the rules.
    • TDOT is authorized to impose terms, conditions, and limitations as necessary and convenient to meet the rule requirements.
    • State requirements are in addition to any county or municipal land-use regulations that may govern driveways.
    “Under state law, a permit is required before construction of a driveway on state highway right-of-way, including the modification, revision, or change in use of any existing driveway facilities. Property owners must obtain a permit from TDOT.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction, modification, revision, or change in use of a driveway on Tennessee state highway right-of-way.
      “Under state law, a permit is required before construction of a driveway on state highway right-of-way, including the modification, revision, or change in use”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Development in or near a mapped or regulated floodplain in Tennessee, including Grundy County where the applicable local community participates in the NFIP.
      “Local review may be required before development begins in a regulated floodplain.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Residential building permits administered by Tennessee's State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses where the state program applies.

    • The state program does not apply where a local government enforces local building codes under an exemption or where the city or county has opted out by a two-thirds vote.
    • For construction costs above the maximum listed in the table, an additional fee of $50.00 applies for each additional $50,000 or fraction thereof.
    • The construction cost cannot be less than $60.57 per heated square foot of construction.
    • An HVAC and Plumbing Inspection is required for all new construction.
    • A slab other than Monolith Pour Inspection is required when slab and footing are cast separately.

    permit fee for construction cost $0 to $5,000: 100 USD · permit fee for construction cost $5,001 to $100,000: 350 USD · additional fee for plumbing and HVAC inspection: 100 USD (Applicable as stated in the fee table.) · additional fee for slab other than monolith pour: 100 USD (Applicable when slab and footing are cast separately.)

    “$0 to $5,000 | $100 | $100 | $100 $5,001 to $100,000 | $350 | $100 | $100”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — State residential building permits for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses in Tennessee jurisdictions that participate in the State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program; Grundy County is listed separately as OPT OUT.
      “The permit fee is based on the cost of construction.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Residential permit purchase and inspection process under Tennessee's State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program.

    • The state program applies to one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses only in areas without the stated local-code exemption or opt-out.
    • A first-time CORE user must register for an account.
    • A building permit must be purchased online or at a local Issue Agent.
    • Inspections cover the foundation before pouring, framing/rough-in construction, and final construction.
    • One free re-inspection is available; each additional re-inspection requires an additional fee.
    • A homeowner may build a home only if it will be the homeowner's residence, not sold or leased, and the homeowner has not received a homeowner building permit during the preceding 24 months.
    • Detached garages, sheds, barns, and other detached structures not used for living purposes do not require a state residential building permit.
    • A permit is not required for installation of a manufactured or modular home, but custom site work such as a deck, patio, or stoop requires a permit.

    effective date for permit requirement for additions over 30 square feet: 2011-10-01 (Applies to additions to existing homes.) · free re-inspections per project: 1 inspection (Available if a required inspection is not passed the first time.)

    “A building permit must be purchased online or at a local Issue Agent. The cost of the building permit is based on the estimated cost”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — State residential building permit and inspection process in Tennessee jurisdictions participating in the State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program; Grundy County is listed as OPT OUT.
      “A building permit must be purchased online or at a local Issue Agent.”
  • 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 Grundy County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use and development within the corporate limits of the Town of Monteagle, a municipality in Grundy County.

    • The ordinance authority and its district regulations are limited to the corporate limits of Monteagle.
    • The accompanying zoning map and its explanatory matter are adopted as part of the ordinance, subject to amendment under Section 1207.
    • The ordinance regulates district location, building and structure location, height, size, lot occupancy, yards, courts, open space, population density and distribution, and specified land uses.
    “For the purpose of this ordinance, the following zoning districts are hereby established in the Town of Monteagle, Tennessee:”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts applicable countywide or in unincorporated Grundy County, Tennessee.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in unincorporated Grundy County.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements in unincorporated Grundy County.
  • Setbacks — Setback requirements in unincorporated Grundy County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in unincorporated Grundy County.
7 more unanswered
  • Building height
  • Living in an RV
  • Tiny homes
  • Manufactured homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Subdividing land
  • 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 Grundy County, Tennessee

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

Grundy County scores 75/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: about 53,490 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Grundy County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Division of Water Resources - Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Program. 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 Grundy County, Tennessee?

Land in Grundy County runs about $4,988 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Grundy County?

Grundy County gets about 62.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 5.3% of years.

How remote is Grundy County?

A representative private-land location has about 53,490 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,558,640 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 Grundy compares in Tennessee

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