Bolthole Index

Johnson County, Tennessee

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

80Index Score / 100
#19 of 95 in Tennessee

Unincorporated Johnson County, Tennessee does not require a county building permit for a new home or addition, but septic and electric permits are required1. The county has no Zoning Department, while Mountain City sets its own zoning and issues its own building permits inside town limits234. Septic permits for Johnson County come from the state, through TDEC's Johnson City field office5.

At a glance

Building permit
No county permit for new structures or additions in unincorporated Johnson County1
Required approvals
Septic and electric permits; confirm when the county Certificate of Occupancy applies6
Zoning
No county Zoning Department; Mountain City has municipal zoning and site-plan review23
Septic
TDEC's Johnson City field office handles permits and inspections57
Owner-builder
Allowed for your own residence, subject to Tennessee's owner-builder and contractor rules8
RV living
Not confirmed on private land; Mountain City limits stays in qualifying travel-trailer parks29
Floodplain
New construction subject to the county process needs a FEMA Flood Permit10
Private well
Use a state-licensed driller; a separate owner permit was not confirmed11

Who to call

Floodplain permits

Johnson County Property Assessor's Office

FEMA Flood Permits for new construction in Johnson County

423-727-7692

Septic permits

Johnson City Environmental Field Office (TDEC Division of Water Resources)

Septic permit applications and inspections for Johnson County

(423) 854-5400

tdec.johnsoncity.efo@tn.gov

2305 Silverdale Drive, Johnson City, TN 37601-2162

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 Johnson 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 Johnson County, Tennessee?

Unincorporated Johnson County, Tennessee does not require a county building permit for a new residential structure or addition1. A project still needs septic and electric permits, and the county says it has a Certificate of Occupancy without explaining exactly when that certificate is required6. Tennessee has adopted statewide building and fire-safety codes, but Johnson County opted its unincorporated area out of the state residential program1213. An owner or contractor may request State Fire Marshal inspection for a qualifying dwelling or addition, with a state Certificate of Occupancy issued if the inspected work meets statewide standards1415. Mountain City has its own municipal building code and permits4. New construction covered by the county flood process also needs a FEMA Flood Permit through the Property Assessor's Office10.

Who issues building permits and septic permits in Johnson County, Tennessee?

Johnson County does not issue a general building permit for new residential structures and additions in its unincorporated area1. TDEC's Johnson City Environmental Field Office handles Johnson County septic applications and inspections57. The Johnson County Property Assessor's Office accepts FEMA Flood Permit applications for new construction covered by the county process16. The county also requires an electric permit for new structures and additions, but we could not confirm a county construction-fee schedule6. For a voluntary state inspection of a home in this opt-out jurisdiction, the owner or contractor obtains a state building permit through the State Fire Marshal's Office14. Inside Mountain City, town permits cover listed structures over 200 square feet and attached exit-door decks of any size4.

Does Johnson County, Tennessee have zoning?

Johnson County states that it has no Zoning Department, but that statement does not by itself confirm that every parcel lacks all land-use controls2. Johnson County publishes subdivision regulations, and land divisions in the unincorporated county go through Planning Commission review1718. We could not confirm an unincorporated minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setback, lot-coverage limit or height limit, so ask county government about the parcel before dividing or developing it219. Mountain City's zoning regulates uses and building and lot characteristics within town limits3. Tennessee's county-zoning exemption for a farm structure requires agricultural land and a structure incidental to the farm enterprise; it excludes specified locations, including floodplains, and does not apply within municipalities20.

How do septic permits work in Johnson County?

A new septic system or repair of a faulty system in Johnson County requires a Septic System Construction Permit before dirt work or construction begins21. Apply through TDEC's Johnson City Environmental Field Office, and have the installed system inspected before it is covered227. A conventional-system permit costs $400 for design flow up to 1,000 gallons per day, while an alternative-system permit costs $500 at that flow; additional flow and construction inspection carry separate charges23. A repair permit has no permit fee, although its construction inspection costs $10023. Only 1.3% of Johnson County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early purchase contingency24. Where soil or site conditions are unfavorable, Tennessee requires an Alternative Septic System Permit for systems such as mound or low-pressure pipe.25 A qualifying sewer utility may require connection where a building's parcel abuts a public way containing its sanitary sewer26.

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

We could not confirm whether long-term RV occupancy or temporary camping is allowed on private land in unincorporated Johnson County, so ask county government before buying land for that use2. Mountain City's travel-trailer-park rule limits a stay in the same park to 30 days, but it does not answer whether one RV may be occupied on an individual lot9. In a Mountain City special flood-hazard area, an RV must stay fewer than 180 consecutive days, remain fully licensed and highway-ready, or meet all new-construction requirements27. A tiny home that meets Tennessee's ready-removable definition cannot be modified for residential, recreational or emergency housing28. Septic and electric permits still apply to new structures and additions in unincorporated Johnson County1.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is inside Mountain City, because the town has separate zoning, building-code and permit rules34.
  1. Check the flood map and, when the county flood process applies, obtain the FEMA Flood Permit from the Property Assessor's Office16.
  1. Have the site evaluated and obtain the septic construction permit before grading the building pad21.
  1. Arrange the electric permit and ask county government when its Certificate of Occupancy applies, even though no county building permit is required6.
  1. Decide whether to request the optional state residential inspection route14.
  1. If the driveway enters a state highway right-of-way, obtain a TDOT permit before building or changing it29.
  1. In unincorporated Johnson County, an owner-builder needs no county building-permit exemption because no county building permit is required; state trade-licensing rules can still apply30.

What should you check before buying land in Johnson County?

Start with septic feasibility: only 1.3% of Johnson County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field24. Terrain can sharply reduce practical building area because only 10.5% of county land is at a slope of 15% or less, while 81.9% is wooded3132. Confirm legal access and obtain a TDOT permit if the driveway will connect to a state highway right-of-way29. A proposed land split in unincorporated Johnson County goes through the county subdivision process18. For a private well, hire a Tennessee-licensed driller and expect the driller to file the state report; we could not confirm a separate owner-issued county well permit11. Check flood status before closing because new construction covered by the county process requires a FEMA Flood Permit10.

Watch-outs

  • The lack of a county Zoning Department does not confirm permission for long-term RV living, temporary camping or every tiny-home design; ask county government first228.
  • Mountain City has municipal zoning and building permits, so confirm whether the parcel is inside town limits34.
  • Johnson County subdivision rules apply to land divisions in the unincorporated area even though the county does not require a general building permit for new residential structures181.

Sources

  1. Newcomer Information, quoted and re-checked
  2. Johnson County TN - Newcomer Information (2026 county census)
  3. Town of Mountain City Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  4. Building & Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  5. Johnson City Tennessee Environmental Field Office, quoted and re-checked
  6. Newcomer Information, quoted and re-checked
  7. Septic System Construction Permit, quoted and re-checked
  8. Can I build my own home without a license?, quoted and re-checked
  9. Town of Mountain City Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  10. johnsoncountytn.gov, quoted and re-checked
  11. Well Water, quoted and re-checked
  12. Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office Currently Adopted Codes, quoted and re-checked
  13. Residential Permits: Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  14. Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office Residential Permits Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  15. tn.gov, quoted and re-checked
  16. Johnson County Property Assessor's Office (johnsoncountytn.gov)
  17. johnsoncountytn.gov, quoted and re-checked
  18. County Government | Johnson County Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  19. County Government | Johnson County Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  20. Exemption from County Zoning Regulation for Buildings on Land Used for Agriculture, quoted and re-checked
  21. Septic System Construction Permit, quoted and re-checked
  22. Johnson City Environmental Field Office (TDEC Division of Water Resources) (tn.gov)
  23. Newcomer Information, quoted and re-checked
  24. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  25. Newcomer Information, quoted and re-checked
  26. Utility Customers Frequently Asked Questions (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. The Mountain City Municipal Code, quoted and re-checked
  28. Public Guidance: Ready-Removables and Non-Traditional Homes, quoted and re-checked
  29. Tennessee Department of Transportation Highway System Access Manual, Volume 3, quoted and re-checked
  30. Tennessee law on county zoning and building authority
  31. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data

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.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleJohnson CountyCarter CountySullivan CountyWashington CountyUnicoi CountyGreene CountyHawkins County
Building permitNot requiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequiredRequired
County zoningNoYesYesYesNot publishedYesNo
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDEC

County locator

Johnson County in Tennessee

80
County map
Johnson County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Johnson County scores

Seclusion48100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency59100% ev.
Admin Boringness90100% ev.
Durability79100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost81100% 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 →

$257kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$6,031Land / acre
50.7"Annual rain
0.2% of yrsSevere drought
0.1 / yr (+0.1)Mid-century 100°F days
10.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.65" (+10.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.64×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,484Home insurance / yr
-1.2% / yrInsurance growth
1.03%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
41,093People within 30 min
2,101,420People within 2 hr
75,315Radius comparison (15 mi)
61.6People / sq mi
2.5%Federal land
10.5%Land at 15% slope or less
1.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
2,375 acWorkable land screen
81.9%Wooded land
79 tonsBiomass / forest ac
52.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Johnson 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 Mountain City

Answers from the rulebook for Johnson County

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

Johnson County rules

  • Building permitNot required

    New residential structures and additions in unincorporated Johnson County, Tennessee.

    • A septic permit is required for new structures/additions.
    • An electric permit is required for new structures/additions.
    • The county page states that it has a Certificate of Occupancy requirement.
    • The county statement does not establish the rule within incorporated municipalities, including Mountain City.
    “Johnson County, Tennessee, does not currently require a building permit. Our only requirement for new structures/additions are a septic permit and an electric permit. Therefore, we do have a Certificate of Occupancy.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — New structures and additions under Johnson County government jurisdiction in unincorporated Johnson County, Tennessee.
      “Johnson County, Tennessee, does not currently require a building permit. Our only requirement for new structures/additions are a septic permit and an electric permit.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Johnson County: no county building permit is required, so there is no permit to be exempt from and you may build your own home. State licensing for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work may still apply.

    • A septic permit and an electric permit are required for new structures/additions.
    • A Certificate of Occupancy is required.
    “Johnson County, Tennessee, does not currently require a building permit. Our only requirement for new structures/additions are a septic permit and an electric permit.”
  • Building code adoptedNot adopted (with conditions)

    Residential building-code enforcement in Johnson County's unincorporated areas, as distinguished from Mountain City.

    • The county's official page states that new structures and additions require a septic permit and an electric permit.
    • The county states that it has a Certificate of Occupancy requirement.
    • The Tennessee residential-jurisdiction list classifies Johnson County as OPT OUT, while Mountain City is separately listed as EXEMPT; this county claim does not apply to Mountain City.
    • The Tennessee list states that its status information was accurate as of 8/21/2026.
    • The exact Johnson County resolution number and adoption date were not located.
    • Under Tennessee guidance, an opt-out resolution is passed by a two-thirds vote and expires 180 days after the legislative-body election unless renewed; the official status list does not state Johnson County's specific resolution date.
    “Johnson County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967 [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — State residential building-code program participation for Johnson County, Tennessee, as listed by the Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office.
      “Johnson County | OPT OUT | Shawn Jackson | aplusinspktr@gmail.com | 423-672-8967”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and lot-split review under Johnson County Subdivision Regulations administered through the county planning process.

    • The county webpage identifies the regulations as amended through October 18, 2012.
    • Official planning-commission materials show review of a 2-lot split and a 5-lot private-road subdivision.
    • The planning-commission materials state that after preliminary approval, final approval will not be given until a water source has been obtained.
    “Johnson County Subdivision Regulations As amended through October 18, 2012. Download PDF version here.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in unincorporated Johnson County under the Johnson County Subdivision Regulations administered through the Johnson County Planning Commission.
      “Johnson County Subdivision Regulations As amended through October 18, 2012. Download PDF version here.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision activity subject to Johnson County's published subdivision regulations.
      “Johnson County Subdivision Regulations As amended through October 18, 2012.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision activity addressed by Johnson County's published subdivision regulations.
      “Johnson County Subdivision Regulations As amended through October 18, 2012.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    New construction in Johnson County, Tennessee, where the county flood-permit process applies.

    • The county notice specifically addresses new construction.
    • The permit application location identified by the county is the Property Assessor’s Office.
    • The notice does not state the fee, technical standards, or all activities requiring a permit.
    “NOTICE FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION: You must apply for FEMA Flood Permits in the Property Assessors Office. Questions: 423-727-7692”
  • Permit processPartial

    New structures and additions in Johnson County, Tennessee, within the county-administered area.

    • The county page states that no building permit is currently required.
    • A septic permit and an electric permit are required for new structures/additions.
    • The page states that Johnson County has a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The source does not specify whether incorporated municipalities impose additional requirements.
    “Johnson County, Tennessee, does not currently require a building permit. Our only requirement for new structures/additions are a septic permit and an electric permit. Therefore, we do have a Certificate of Occupancy.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    The county states it has no zoning department ('We do not have a Zoning Department').

    Johnson County TN - Newcomer Information ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • InspectionsLimited

    One- and two-family dwellings and additions in Johnson County, which Tennessee lists as an OPT OUT jurisdiction; state inspection is available when requested through the State Fire Marshal's Office.

    • Johnson County is listed as OPT OUT; Mountain City is separately listed as EXEMPT.
    • The owner or contractor may obtain a state building permit to request the inspection.
    • Inspection is not stated to be mandatory for every county construction project.
    “Their home may now be inspected by an inspector with the State Fire Marshal’s Office during the construction process, both for new construction and additions to existing homes.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    One- and two-family dwellings and additions in Johnson County's state-designated OPT OUT area when the State Fire Marshal's Office inspection process is used.

    • The dwelling must be determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards.
    • The owner or contractor must obtain a state building permit to request the inspection.
    • The county page states that it has a Certificate of Occupancy, but does not state that a Certificate of Occupancy is required for every project.
    “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.”
  • Tiny homesProhibited

    Modification of Tennessee-defined ready-removable structures for residential, recreational, or emergency housing, including any tiny-home structure that falls within the ready-removable definition.

    • The prohibition applies specifically to a ready-removable structure as defined by Tennessee Code Annotated § 68-126-303(9).
    • A structure is not considered a ready-removable if it satisfies the guidance's listed criteria, including specified off-site construction, no electrical or plumbing systems at transport, visible structural components, compliance with dwelling inspection/permit/code requirements, and placement on an approved foundation or engineered piers.
    • For projects costing $25,000 or more, contractor licensing requirements apply.

    contractor project threshold: >= 25000 USD (Tennessee Code Annotated § 62-6-103 contractor-licensing requirement stated on the source page)

    “Further, pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated § 68-126-311, “No ready-removable shall be modified for use as residential, recreational, or emergency housing in this state.””
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State — Septic-system permitting and administration for Johnson County, Tennessee.
      “Counties Served [...] Johnson [...] To apply online for a new septic permit [...] view the Division of Water Resources Septic Related Services.”
    • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation of a subsurface sewage disposal system, or repair of an existing faulty system, serving property in Johnson County.
      “subsurface sewage disposal (septic) system installed on their property or requiring repair to an existing faulty system must get a Septic System Construction Permit.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation of subsurface sewage disposal systems in Tennessee.

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

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

    “The applicant or SSDS installer must notify the Division when a system has been installed so that it can be inspected and approved.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Permitted SSDS installations serving property in Johnson County.
      “The Division inspects each SSDS installation to ensure that it was installed in accordance with permit conditions and regulatory requirements.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid wastewater sanitation in Johnson County using an alternative subsurface sewage disposal system serving a residence, retail or commercial building, or accessory building.

    • Tennessee requires an Alternative Septic System Permit for installation of an alternative septic system such as LPP, mound, oxidation lagoon, or ATS/SDD.
    • Alternative 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 before the Division can evaluate a property, and the map must be prepared by a soils consultant licensed in Tennessee.
    • A septic system permit should be obtained before starting dirt work or construction of any building, including the building pad.
    • For Johnson County new structures or additions, the county states that a septic permit and an electric permit are required; the county states that it does not currently require a building permit.
    • The official materials reviewed did not establish authorization for non-septic sanitation methods such as composting toilets or pit privies.

    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.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Private and other water wells drilled in Johnson County under Tennessee jurisdiction.

    • The person conducting, managing, or supervising well drilling must hold a TDEC Division of Water Resources license.
    • The official TDEC page refers to a registration fee paid to the State and requires the driller to submit a Tennessee Water Well Drillers Report to the Division of Water Resources.
    • The reviewed official pages do not describe a separate county-issued private-well permit; Johnson County-specific municipal or special local authority exceptions were not established.

    registration fee: required · well driller report: required

    “Tennessee requires that all water well drillers, pump and water treatment device installers be licensed by the State. [...] Will you itemize what the well system will cost; including the registration fee paid to the State of Tennessee? [...] The driller is required to send a Tennessee Water Well Drillers Report (CN-0825) to the Division of Water Resources.”
  • 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."”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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 or structures on land used for agricultural purposes and subject to county zoning regulation in Tennessee.

    • 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 or federal-aid highways, public airports, or public parks.
    • The exemption does not apply to land located within the one-hundred-year flood plain.
    • The Attorney General opinion 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; those structures qualify only when the statutory conditions are met.
    “it must be located on lands “devoted to agricultural uses;” and (2) it must be “incidental to the agricultural enterprise.””
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Buildings or structures on agricultural land subject to county zoning regulation in Tennessee, including Johnson County unincorporated areas to the extent county zoning regulation would otherwise apply.
      “To be exempt from county zoning regulation under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-114, a building or structure must meet two requirements:”
    • Conditional — Buildings or structures on agricultural land in Johnson County seeking exemption from county zoning regulation under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-114.
      “it must be located on lands “devoted to agricultural uses;” and (2) it must be “incidental to the agricultural enterprise.””
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Construction, modification, revision, or change in use of a driveway on Tennessee state highway right-of-way.

    • The requirement applies to state highway right-of-way and does not establish a permit requirement for every driveway on every road.
    • Property owners must obtain the permit from TDOT.
    • County or municipal land-use regulations may also apply.
    “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”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Driveway construction, modification, revision, or change in use on Tennessee state highway right-of-way in Johnson County.
      “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.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    State-administered septic-system construction and inspection fees applicable to new structures in Johnson County, where the county identifies a septic permit as a requirement.

    • Johnson County states that its only requirements for new structures/additions include a septic permit and an electric permit.
    • A new conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe SSDS permit costs $400 up to 1,000 gallons per day design flow, plus $100 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day.
    • A new conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe SSDS construction inspection costs $100.
    • A new alternative SSDS permit costs $500 up to 1,000 gallons per day design flow, plus $150 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day.
    • An alternative SSDS construction inspection costs $200.
    • An experimental SSDS permit costs $500.
    • A repair permit has no permit fee; a repair construction inspection costs $100.
    • Applications and fees are submitted to the appropriate Environmental Field Office; processing generally takes 10 days and must be completed within 45 days.

    new conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe SSDS permit: 400 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($100 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · new conventional SSDS construction inspection: 100 USD · new alternative SSDS permit: 500 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($150 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · alternative SSDS construction inspection: 200 USD · experimental SSDS permit: 500 USD · repair permit: 0 USD (No permit fee) · repair construction inspection: 100 USD

    “New Conventional or Large Diameter Graveless Pipe SSDS Permit | $400 up to 1000 gallons per day design flow”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (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.
      “$0 to $5,000 | $100 | $100 | $100 $5,001 to $100,000 | $350 | $100 | $100”
  • 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 Johnson County

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction within the municipal limits of Mountain City

    • The Town states that it adheres to the 2018 IRC International Building Code.
    • Building permits are required inside the municipal limits for homes, buildings, accessory structures, carports, sheds, and decks for structures over 200 square feet.
    • Decks serving an exit door, of any size, attached to a home, require a permit.
    • Building permit fees are $100 for project values from $1 to $2,500 and $100 plus 1% of total cost for project values of $2,501 or above.
    • All zoning and land-use questions are directed to City Hall, and new construction must comply with zoning and building-code regulations.

    building permit threshold: > 200 square feet (Decks serving an exit door, of any size, attached to a home require a permit.) · building permit fee: 100 USD (For project values from $1 to $2,500.) · building permit fee: 100 plus 1% of total cost USD (For project values of $2,501 or above.)

    “The Town adheres to (2018) IRC International Building Code, which is available at City Hall for review.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Residential and other construction within the municipal limits of Mountain City, Tennessee.
      “Building permits are REQUIRED inside the municipal limits of the Town of Mountain City.  This applies to any construction of homes, buildings, accessory structures, carports, sheds, decks etc. for structures over 200 square feet.  Decks serving an exit door, of any size, attached to a home, require a permit. The Town adheres to (2018) IRC International Building Code, which is available at City Hall for review.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning and land-use controls within the municipal limits of Mountain City, Johnson County, Tennessee

    • The Town's official site identifies a valid Municipal Code revised and adopted November 4, 2025.
    • Ordinance #2071, governing use districts, was adopted March 3, 2026.
    • Ordinance #2072, governing site plan review, was adopted March 3, 2026.
    • The official Town site publishes a zoning map and zoning ordinance; the detailed district standards were not extracted here.
    • New construction must comply with zoning and building-code regulations.
    “Ordinance #2071 - Provisions Governing Use Districts adopted 03/03/2026”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land use within the corporate limits of the Town of Mountain City, Tennessee.
      “This ordinance shall be known as the “Zoning Ordinance of the Town of Mountain City, Tennessee, and the map herein referred to, which is identified by the title “Zoning Map of the Town of Mountain City, Tennessee,” and all explanatory matter thereon are hereby adopted and made a part of this ordinance.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land, buildings, and structures within the corporate limits of the Town of Mountain City, Tennessee.
      “The zoning regulations and districts as herein set forth have been made in accordance with the comprehensive plan for the purpose of promoting the health, safety, morals, and the general welfare of the community.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Placement or occupancy of recreational vehicles in an identified special flood hazard area within Mountain City's municipal limits.

    • The rule applies only in an identified special flood hazard area.
    • The recreational vehicle must satisfy at least one of the listed alternatives: remain on site fewer than 180 consecutive days; be fully licensed and ready for highway use; or meet all requirements for new construction.
    • A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use only if it is licensed, on its wheels or jacking system, attached only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached structures or additions.

    maximum site duration under first alternative: < 180 consecutive days (The alternative is not required if the vehicle is fully licensed and ready for highway use or meets all requirements for new construction.)

    “All recreational vehicles placed in an identified special flood hazard area must either: (A) Be on the site for fewer than one hundred eighty (180) consecutive days; (B) Be fully licensed and ready for highway use (a recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is licensed, on its wheels or jacking system, attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached structures or additions); or (C) The recreational vehicle must meet all the requirements for new construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Travel trailer parks within the incorporated limits of Mountain City, Tennessee, defined as land with two or more travel trailers used as temporary living or sleeping quarters.
      “383. Travel Trailer Park. Any plat of land upon which two (2) or more travel trailers are located and used as temporary living or sleeping quarters. The occupancy of such parks may not remain in the same trailer park more than thirty (30) days.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision regulation within the incorporated limits of Mountain City, Tennessee.

    • Mountain City Planning Commission administers separate municipal subdivision regulations.
    • The official municipal planning document states that the current regulations were amended through 2007 and need review and revision.
    • The source does not establish that Johnson County Subdivision Regulations apply within Mountain City.

    initial adoption year: 1969 year · current regulation amendment year stated by source: 2007 year

    “Subdivision regulations were first adopted by the Mountain City Planning Commission in 1969. The current regulations are amended through 2007. These regulations need to be reviewed and revised to ensure that any policies presented in this plan can be implemented.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Zoning districts applicable in Johnson County, Tennessee, including the distinction between unincorporated county areas and incorporated municipalities.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum residential dwelling size in Johnson County, including unincorporated areas and subdivision developments.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in unincorporated Johnson County, Tennessee.
  • Setbacks — Building setbacks potentially imposed by Johnson County subdivision regulations or other county land-use rules.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in unincorporated Johnson County, Tennessee.
4 more unanswered
  • Building height
  • Manufactured homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

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

Living off-grid in Johnson County, Tennessee

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

Johnson County scores 80/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

Johnson 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), Johnson City Environmental Field Office. 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 Johnson County, Tennessee?

Land in Johnson County runs about $6,031 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Johnson County?

Johnson County gets about 50.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 0.2% of years.

How remote is Johnson County?

A representative private-land location has about 41,093 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,101,420 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 Johnson compares in Tennessee

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