Bolthole Index

Lewis County, Tennessee

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

84Index Score / 100
#7 of 95 in Tennessee

Unincorporated Lewis County, Tennessee requires no county building permit or county building fee for residential or commercial structures of any type or size12. Hohenwald handles building permits and zoning inside the city, while county zoning is absent outside the city34. TDEC remains responsible for septic permits throughout Lewis County56.

At a glance

Building permit
No county permit or building fee outside Hohenwald12
County zoning
Absent outside Hohenwald; the city administers its own zoning37
Septic
TDEC requires permits for construction, modification or repair and inspects before covering568
RV living
No county zoning rule restricts RV occupancy on unincorporated land9
Tiny or manufactured home
Manufactured homes need licensed installation and a decal; other site approvals may apply10
Owner-builder
You may build your own home outside Hohenwald; the state permit route has conditions1112
Minimum size and setbacks
No county minimum dwelling size or zoning setback applies outside Hohenwald1314
Septic soils
Only 6.8% of county soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field15

Who to call

Building permits

City of Hohenwald Building & Codes Department

Building permits, inspections and zoning information inside Hohenwald city limits

(931)796-2231

cdunn@hohenwald.com

118 W Linden Ave, Hohenwald, TN 38462

Septic permits

TDEC Columbia Environmental Field Office

TDEC field-office contact for Lewis County and Division of Water Resources questions, including septic-related services

(931) 380-3371

Columbia.EFO_ADM@tn.gov

1421 Hampshire Pike, Suite 100, Columbia, TN 38401

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 Lewis 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 Lewis County, Tennessee?

No county building permit is required for residential or commercial structures of any type or size outside Hohenwald city limits1. Lewis County also charges no county building fee there2. For residential-code participation, Lewis County is listed as opted out and Hohenwald as exempt16. An owner or contractor in the unincorporated county may voluntarily obtain a state building permit and request State Fire Marshal inspections; a qualifying home can then receive a state certificate of occupancy1718. Inside Hohenwald, the city issues building permits and administers zoning; TDEC still handles septic permits throughout Lewis County45.

Who is the Lewis County building department and how do you reach it?

Unincorporated Lewis County has no county building-permit process because the county does not require a building permit outside Hohenwald19. Inside Hohenwald, the City of Hohenwald Building & Codes Department issues building permits and provides zoning information; contact it at 118 W Linden Ave, Hohenwald, TN 38462, or (931)796-22314. Septic authority does not shift to the city: TDEC handles septic permits across Lewis County5. For septic construction, modification or repair, contact the TDEC Columbia Environmental Field Office at 1421 Hampshire Pike, Suite 100, Columbia, TN 38401, or (931) 380-3371620.

Does Lewis County have zoning?

Zoning varies by location in Lewis County: Hohenwald administers city zoning, while county zoning requirements are absent in unincorporated areas outside the city37. Outside Hohenwald, county zoning sets no minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setback, lot-coverage limit or building-height limit1321142223. Tennessee's agricultural zoning exemption is conditional: the land must be devoted to agriculture and the structure incidental to that enterprise, with exceptions for specified locations including floodplains and land near certain public facilities24. The absence of county zoning does not remove state septic requirements or other applicable state rules76.

How do septic permits work in Lewis County?

TDEC, rather than Lewis County or Hohenwald, administers septic permits in Lewis County5. A septic permit is required before construction, modification or repair of a system; the requirement also covers conventional systems serving homes, commercial buildings and accessory buildings6. After installation, the installer must arrange a final inspection before covering the system; approval brings a certificate of completion8. The Columbia Environmental Field Office serves Lewis County for septic questions20. Septic feasibility deserves attention before purchase because only 6.8% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field15. When land is divided for construction using septic, Tennessee requires a subdivision evaluation, survey and soils map unless every resulting tract is at least 5 acres25.

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

Unincorporated Lewis County has no county zoning rule restricting RV occupancy, temporary camping or an accessory dwelling9. That answer does not remove the septic permit requirement or other applicable state rules67. Hohenwald has separate city zoning, so ask the City of Hohenwald Building & Codes Department before placing or occupying an RV, tiny home or manufactured home inside city limits; TDEC still handles the septic permit345. Tennessee prohibits modifying a ready-removable structure without a foundation, footings or comparable support for housing26. A manufactured home requires a licensed installer and installation decal, while a custom site-built deck, porch, stoop or addition requires a site-work permit10.

Building a home in Lewis County: what are the steps?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is inside Hohenwald; the city handles building permits and zoning there, while TDEC retains septic authority45.
  1. For unincorporated land, document that Lewis County requires neither a county building permit nor a county building fee12.
  1. If you will build your own residence, note that no county building-permit exemption is needed outside Hohenwald; the optional state building-permit route limits its homeowner exemption to a residence not for sale or lease and no homeowner building permit in the prior 24 months1112.
  1. Evaluate the wastewater area and obtain the TDEC septic permit before construction, modification or repair, then arrange inspection before covering the system68.
  1. Obtain the TDOT driveway permit before constructing or changing access on state highway right-of-way27.

What should you check before buying land in Lewis County?

Start by confirming whether the parcel is inside Hohenwald because the city handles building permits and zoning there, while unincorporated Lewis County does not require a county building permit or impose county zoning31. Make septic feasibility a purchase contingency: only 6.8% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field15. The county is 83.7% wooded, and 43.9% of its land has a slope of 15% or less, so verify clearing needs, driveway grade and a buildable area on the parcel2829. Ask the county floodplain administrator about local review and TDEC whether a separate private-well permit applies; we could not confirm either Lewis County-specific rule.

Watch-outs

  • No county zoning rule restricts RV occupancy on unincorporated land, but Hohenwald administers city zoning and TDEC septic permits still apply countywide935.
  • Tennessee prohibits modifying a foundation-less ready-removable structure for housing even though unincorporated Lewis County requires no county building permit261.
  • Only 6.8% of Lewis County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so verify the wastewater area before buying15.

Sources

  1. Zoning | Lewiscountytn, quoted and re-checked
  2. Zoning | Lewis County, quoted and re-checked
  3. Lewis County Government home page and zoning FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  4. City of Hohenwald Building & Codes Department (hohenwald.com)
  5. lewiscountytn.com, quoted and re-checked
  6. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  7. Lewis County Government home page and zoning FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  8. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  9. Tennessee law on county zoning and building authority
  10. Residential Permit FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  11. Tennessee law on county zoning and building authority
  12. Residential Permits, quoted and re-checked
  13. lewiscountytn.com, quoted and re-checked
  14. lewiscountytn.com, quoted and re-checked
  15. 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
  16. Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office Residential Permits Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  17. Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office Residential Permits Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  18. Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office Residential Permits Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  19. Zoning | Lewis County, quoted and re-checked
  20. TDEC Columbia Environmental Field Office (tn.gov)
  21. lewiscountytn.com, quoted and re-checked
  22. lewiscountytn.com, quoted and re-checked
  23. lewiscountytn.com, quoted and re-checked
  24. Exemption from County Zoning Regulation for Buildings on Land Used for Agriculture, quoted and re-checked
  25. Online Application for Septic Related Services, quoted and re-checked
  26. Public Guidance: Ready-Removables and Non-Traditional Homes, quoted and re-checked
  27. Highway Entrance Permits, quoted and re-checked
  28. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Share of land at 15% slope or less: 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 3 of the 4 neighbors with published rules, Lewis County has no countywide zoning.

RuleLewis CountyHickman CountyPerry CountyMaury CountyLawrence CountyWayne CountyDecatur County
Building permitNot requiredLimitedNot requiredRequiredLimitedLimitedNot required
County zoningNoYesNot publishedYesYesNot publishedNo
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDECTDEC

County locator

Lewis County in Tennessee

84
County map
Lewis County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Lewis County scores

Seclusion57100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency62100% ev.
Admin Boringness90100% ev.
Durability71100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost87100% 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 →

$256kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$3,635Land / acre
57.1"Annual rain
4.5% of yrsSevere drought
8.9 / yr (+8.2)Mid-century 100°F days
14.3 daysMid-century dry spell
2.41" (+6.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.55×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,799Home insurance / yr
0.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.37%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
18,659People within 30 min
3,227,140People within 2 hr
30,477Radius comparison (15 mi)
46.3People / sq mi
1.8%Federal land
43.9%Land at 15% slope or less
6.8%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
10,736 acWorkable land screen
83.7%Wooded land
49.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Lewis 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.

Hohenwald

Answers from the rulebook for Lewis County

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

Lewis County rules

  • Building permitNot required

    Residential and commercial structures of any type or size outside the City of Hohenwald in Lewis County, Tennessee.

    • The rule applies outside Hohenwald city limits.
    • Within Hohenwald city limits, applicants should contact the City of Hohenwald for its requirements.
    • The county page separately states that Tennessee law requires proper septic systems and proper electric installation.
    “If you are planning to build outside the city limits of Hohenwald, Tennessee, Lewis County does not require a building permit for any type of structure or any sized structure, residential or commercial use.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Lewis 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.

    • The rule applies outside Hohenwald city limits.
    • Within Hohenwald city limits, applicants should contact the City of Hohenwald for its requirements.
    “If you are planning to build outside the city limits of Hohenwald, Tennessee, Lewis County does not require a building permit for any type of structure or any sized structure, residential or commercial use.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Statewide residential building-construction-code participation for one- and two-family dwellings in Lewis County and the City of Hohenwald.

    • The Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office list identifies Lewis County as OPT OUT and Hohenwald as EXEMPT.
    • The state explains that counties and municipalities may elect to exempt one- and two-family dwellings from statewide standards within their jurisdictional boundaries.
    • The state list defines OPT OUT as a jurisdiction that has passed a resolution opting out of the program and EXEMPT as a jurisdiction that has received an exemption.
    • The state list states that the information was accurate as of 2026-08-21.
    • In an opt-out or non-code jurisdiction, an owner or contractor may request a State Fire Marshal inspection and obtain a state building permit; if the dwelling meets statewide standards, the State Fire Marshal's Office may release a Certificate of Occupancy.
    “Lewis County | OPT OUT | Ronnie Galloway | gallowayinspection@gmail.com | 931-201-3844 Hohenwald | EXEMPT”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — State residential building-code enforcement for one- and two-family dwellings in unincorporated Lewis County.
      “Lewis County | OPT OUT | Ronnie Galloway | gallowayinspection@gmail.com | 931-201-3844 [...] OPT OUT - The jurisdiction has passed a resolution opting out of the program”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County zoning in the unincorporated areas of Lewis County, Tennessee, outside the City of Hohenwald.

    • The City of Hohenwald has its own zoning requirements within city limits.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements continue to apply.
    • This claim addresses county zoning authority and does not negate state, septic, electrical, floodplain, subdivision, or municipal requirements.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Zoning coverage across Lewis County, including the City of Hohenwald and areas outside the city limits.

    • The City of Hohenwald has some zoning requirements and must be contacted for information about those requirements.
    • Outside the city limits, Lewis County requires only what is outlined in Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) code.
    • This aggregate conclusion combines municipal zoning in Hohenwald with the absence of county zoning requirements in the unincorporated area; the county does not administer Hohenwald's municipal zoning.
    “The City of Hohenwald has some zoning requirments and will need to be contacted for more information. However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Local zoning across Lewis County, aggregating the City of Hohenwald and unincorporated county areas.
      “The City of Hohenwald has some zoning requirments and will need to be contacted for more information. However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
    • Absent — County zoning requirements in unincorporated Lewis County outside the City of Hohenwald.
      “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNot published

    Unincorporated Lewis County: no county rule sets this, because Lewis County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The City of Hohenwald has its own zoning requirements within city limits.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements continue to apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    Minimum dwelling size requirements outside the Hohenwald city limits in Lewis County.

    • The City of Hohenwald has zoning requirements that must be separately confirmed.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements still apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Minimum lot sizeNone

    County zoning-based minimum lot size outside the Hohenwald city limits in Lewis County.

    • The City of Hohenwald has zoning requirements that must be separately confirmed.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements still apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • SetbacksNone

    County zoning-based setbacks outside the Hohenwald city limits in Lewis County.

    • The City of Hohenwald has zoning requirements that must be separately confirmed.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements still apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Lot coverageNone

    County zoning-based lot coverage outside the Hohenwald city limits in Lewis County.

    • The City of Hohenwald has zoning requirements that must be separately confirmed.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements still apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Building heightNone

    County zoning-based building-height limits outside the Hohenwald city limits in Lewis County.

    • The City of Hohenwald has zoning requirements that must be separately confirmed.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements still apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Living in an RV · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Lewis County: no county rule sets this, because Lewis County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The City of Hohenwald has its own zoning requirements within city limits.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements continue to apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Lewis County: no county rule sets this, because Lewis County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The City of Hohenwald has its own zoning requirements within city limits.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements continue to apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Lewis County: no county rule sets this, because Lewis County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The City of Hohenwald has its own zoning requirements within city limits.
    • Tennessee Code Annotated requirements continue to apply.
    “However, outside the city limits, Lewis County ony requires what is outlined in TCA code.”
  • Permit feesNot published

    County building and development fees for new structures outside the Hohenwald city limits.

    • This finding does not apply within the Hohenwald city limits; the county page directs applicants there to check City of Hohenwald requirements.
    • State-law requirements, including septic and electrical safety requirements, may still apply.
    “Lewis County does not have any fees associated with building new structures outside of the city limits of Hohenwald.”
  • Permit processNot published

    County building-permit process for residential or commercial structures outside the Hohenwald city limits.

    • This finding does not apply within the Hohenwald city limits; the county page directs applicants there to check City of Hohenwald requirements.
    • The county page states that state-law septic and electrical requirements still apply.
    “If you are planning to build outside the city limits of Hohenwald, Tennessee, Lewis County does not require a building permit for any type of structure or any sized structure, residential or commercial use.”

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • InspectionsLimited

    Optional State Fire Marshal inspection of one- or two-family dwellings and additions in Lewis County, which Tennessee lists as an OPT OUT jurisdiction.

    • The State Fire Marshal’s Office may inspect during construction for new construction and additions.
    • The owner or contractor may obtain a state building permit to request the inspection.
    • The dwelling must be determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards for the State Fire Marshal’s Office to release a certificate of occupancy.
    • The source states that Lewis County is OPT OUT and identifies Ronnie Galloway as the listed inspector.
    “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

    Certificate of occupancy issued through the optional State Fire Marshal inspection route for one- or two-family dwellings in Lewis County, an OPT OUT jurisdiction.

    • The source addresses one- and two-family dwellings in opt-out or non-code jurisdictions.
    • The dwelling must be determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards.
    • The owner or contractor must obtain a state building permit and request the inspection route.
    • This claim does not establish a countywide mandatory certificate-of-occupancy requirement for all structures.
    “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
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    A non-ready-removable tiny-home-type structure intended for residential use in Lewis County where it meets the State Fire Marshal's criteria for treatment as a one- or two-family dwelling.

    • Only the exterior walls, floor, and roof systems may be constructed off-site and they must comply with the 2018 International Residential Code.
    • No electrical or plumbing systems may be installed at transport.
    • All structural components must be visible at transport, subject to the stated interior-framing allowance.
    • The structure must comply with inspection, permit, and code requirements for one- and two-family dwellings.
    • The structure must be placed on a foundation with a sill plate following 2018 IRC R403.1.6, or on concrete piers with proper footings and anchoring designed by a registered engineer.
    • If located in a jurisdiction monitored by SFMO, applicable permits and inspections are required; if monitored by a local building official, that jurisdiction's permit and inspection requirements apply.
    • Lewis County's official website states that outside Hohenwald the county does not require a building permit, but Tennessee septic and electrical requirements still apply.
    “will be considered a one- or two-family dwelling by the SFMO”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Prohibited — Modification of a Tennessee ready-removable structure for residential, recreational, or emergency housing, including a tiny-home-type ready-removable structure located in Lewis County.
      “No ready-removable shall be modified for use as residential, recreational, or emergency housing in this state.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Placement and occupancy of a manufactured home in Lewis County, Tennessee, subject to Tennessee installation requirements and any separate local or state requirements applicable to the site.

    • No state residential building permit is required to place a manufactured home.
    • The manufactured home must be installed by a licensed installer.
    • An installation decal must be applied after completion of setup.
    • A Manufactured/Modular Site Work Permit is required for a custom addition, site-built deck, porch, or stoop next to the home.
    • The state residential building permit does not replace septic, sewer, electrical, zoning, grading, or floodplain approvals where otherwise required.
    • Lewis County's official website states that outside Hohenwald it does not require a building permit for any type or size of structure, while Hohenwald requirements must be checked with the city.
    “Manufactured homes must be installed by licensed installers and must have an installation decal applied after completion of the set-up.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Manufactured homes proposed for occupancy in Lewis County and elsewhere in Tennessee.
      “Manufactured homes must be installed by licensed installers and must have an installation decal applied after completion of the set-up.”
  • 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 — Septic-system regulation and permitting applicable in Lewis County, including unincorporated areas.
      “Again, this is Tennessee State Law. Lewis County does not have anything specific regarding these topics.”
    • State — Subsurface sewage disposal system permitting and inspection in Lewis County, including unincorporated county areas.
      “Completed application forms and application fees should be sent to the Division of Water Resources at the appropriate Environmental Field Office. A detailed review of the application is conducted, and the applicant is notified when the review is complete.”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Statewide subsurface sewage disposal system permitting and assistance, with specified contract counties providing ground water protection services in their own areas.
      “NOTE: Some counties provide ground water protection services for their own areas. The online application form is not to be submitted for services requested in the following metropolitan or contact counties: Blount County, Davidson County/Nashville, Hamilton County, Jefferson County, Knox County, Madison County, Sevier County, Shelby County, Williamson County.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, modification, repair, and related permitting of subsurface sewage disposal systems serving property in Lewis County, Tennessee.

    • A septic system permit is required for construction, modification, or repair of a septic system.
    • A conventional septic system permit is required before installation of a conventional septic system or approved substitute product serving a residence, retail or commercial building, including accessory buildings such as a garage, shop, or barn.
    • A septic system permit should be obtained before starting dirt work or construction of any building, including the building pad.
    • A septic system repair permit is required before work on a failing septic system.
    • A septic system modification permit is required when an existing septic system or issued permit needs modification, including changes involving bedrooms, commercial or retail flow, or house/site plans affecting the permitted system area.
    • An alternative septic system permit is required for alternative systems such as LPP, mound, oxidation lagoon, or ATS/SDD; an extra-high-intensity soils map prepared by a Tennessee-licensed soils consultant must be submitted before evaluation.
    • A subdivision evaluation is required for dividing a tract or parcel into two or more lots, sites, or other divisions for immediate or future construction where a septic system is or will be used; a subdivision does not include division into two or more tracts or parcels when all are 5 acres or larger.
    • Lewis County is served by the Columbia Environmental Field Office at 1421 Hampshire Pike, Suite 100, Columbia, Tennessee 38401, phone (931) 380-3371.
    • TDEC's listed contract counties are Blount, Davidson, Hamilton, Jefferson, Knox, Madison, Sevier, Shelby, and Williamson; Lewis County is not listed among them.

    application processing time: <= 45 days (from receipt of a complete application; completeness includes clearly marking property lines and desired house location and mowing or bush hogging the site before the Environmental Scientist's site visit) · maximum spacing between intermediate stakes on long property lines: <= 200 feet (before the Environmental Scientist visits for evaluation)

    “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, modification, or repair of a subsurface sewage disposal system on property in Lewis County.
      “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system.”
    • 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 Lewis 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.”
    • Required — Permitted septic-system installations in Lewis 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.”
  • 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.””
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Subdividing landLimited

    Division of a tract or parcel into two or more lots, sites, or other divisions for immediate or future construction where a septic system will be used, including unincorporated Lewis County.

    • A subdivision evaluation is required before the Division performs the evaluation.
    • A survey and soils map must be submitted.
    • The soils map must be created by a soil consultant licensed in Tennessee.
    • A division into two or more tracts or parcels is not a subdivision for this rule when all are 5 acres or larger in size.

    minimum lots or divisions triggering evaluation: >= 2 lots/sites/divisions · minimum size exception: >= 5 acres per tract or parcel (All resulting tracts or parcels must be 5 acres or larger.)

    “A Subdivision Evaluation is required [...] where a septic system is or will be used. [...] all are 5 acres or larger in size.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction, modification, revision, or change in use of a driveway on a Tennessee state-highway right-of-way, including applicable driveways in Lewis County.

    • The requirement applies to state-highway rights-of-way, not every private or local-road driveway.
    • The permit is obtained from TDOT.
    • Reasonable access does not guarantee the most direct or convenient access from a specific roadway.
    “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.”
  • 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 Lewis 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 construction within the City of Hohenwald, Lewis County, Tennessee.

    • City requirements apply within Hohenwald city limits; the Lewis County page directs persons building within Hohenwald to contact the City of Hohenwald for its requirements.
    “» City of Hohenwald Zoning » City of Hohenwald Zoning Map”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater (with conditions)

    Subdivision development within the City of Hohenwald when a public water main is within reasonable access, as determined by the Planning Commission.

    • The rule applies to subdivisions within Hohenwald's municipal jurisdiction.
    • The subdivider must install adequate water facilities when a public water main is within reasonable access.
    • Facilities are subject to Planning Commission and TDEC specifications and approval.
    • Fire-protection water mains must be at least 6 inches in diameter and use two connections to create a looped system.
    • Fire hydrants are required in subdivisions where public water is available.

    minimum fire-protection water-main diameter: >= 6 inches · maximum fire-hydrant spacing: <= 1000 feet (Hydrants must also be within 500 feet of any residential, commercial, or industrial lot.)

    “Where a public water main is within reasonable access of the subdivision as determined by the Planning Commission, the subdivider shall install adequate water facilities, including fire hydrants subject to construction and materials specifications, approval of the Planning Commission, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation in these Regulations.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Subdivision lots within the City of Hohenwald when public sanitary sewers are within reasonable access, as determined by the Planning Commission.
      “When public sanitary sewers are within reasonable access of the subdivision as determined by the Planning Commission, the subdividers shall provide sanitary sewer facilities to each lot therein and shall connect the facilities to a public system.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Off-grid sanitation — Pit privies, composting toilets, and other off-grid sanitation methods in Lewis County.
  • Well permit — Private water-well drilling in Lewis County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in unincorporated Lewis County.

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

Living off-grid in Lewis County, Tennessee

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

Lewis County scores 84/100 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 Lewis County, Tennessee?

Lewis 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) - 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.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Lewis County is allowed: Unincorporated Lewis County: no county rule sets this, because Lewis County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance. Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits. The City of Hohenwald has its own zoning requirements within city limits. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Lewis County, Tennessee?

Land in Lewis County runs about $3,635 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Lewis County?

Lewis County gets about 57.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4.5% of years.

How remote is Lewis County?

A representative private-land location has about 18,659 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,227,140 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 Lewis compares in Tennessee

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