Bolthole Index

Overton County, Tennessee

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

81Index Score / 100
#18 of 95 in Tennessee

Unincorporated Overton County, Tennessee does not require a county building permit and has no county building codes or zoning outside Livingston123. Livingston handles its own building permits and zoning, while TDEC septic permits apply countywide and state electrical permits still apply4567.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required on property outside the Livingston city limits1
Zoning
No county zoning restrictions outside the Livingston city limits8
Septic permits
Required through TDEC; the Cookeville Environmental Field Office serves Overton County910
RV living
No county land-use restriction outside Livingston; septic, electrical, floodplain and other rules still apply11
Tiny and manufactured homes
No county land-use restriction outside Livingston; manufactured homes need licensed installation and a decal1213
Owner-builder
You may build your own home, subject to Tennessee's owner-builder licensing limits14
Minimum home and lot size
No county minimum dwelling size or minimum lot size outside Livingston1516
Septic soils
Only 15% of soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field17

Who to call

Also useful

Overton County Permits & Zoning

County guidance on building permits, zoning, state electrical permits and state septic permits

Septic permits

TDEC Cookeville Environmental Field Office

Division of Water Resources and septic-related services for Overton County

(931) 520-6688

TDEC.Cookeville.EFO@tn.gov

1844 Foreman Dr, Suite 101 Cookeville, TN 38501

Online permits →

Building permits

City of Livingston Building and Zoning

Building and zoning questions for property inside Livingston

931.823.1269

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

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

No county building permit is required for property in unincorporated Overton County outside the Livingston city limits1. Overton County has not adopted building codes there and opted out of Tennessee's residential building-code program for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses; Livingston has a separate status21819. Because no county building permit is required, an owner may build a home without seeking an owner-builder permit exemption, although state trade-licensing rules can still apply14. Tennessee's separate owner-builder licensing exemption allows an owner to build one residence for personal use every two years, but not for resale, lease or rent without a licensed contractor; anyone hired for a portion worth $25,000 or more is not exempt from contractor licensing20. State electrical permits remain required7. Property inside Livingston follows city building-permit and building-code rules, while TDEC retains septic-permit authority throughout Overton County4216.

Who handles building permits in Overton County?

Unincorporated Overton County has no county building-permit process because county building permits are not required22. The Overton County Permits & Zoning page is the starting point for confirming the parcel's jurisdiction and directs electrical permits to Tennessee7. For land inside Livingston, contact the City of Livingston Building and Zoning office at 931.823.1269 because the city handles building permits and zoning; TDEC, not the city, administers septic permits throughout Overton County456. The state lists Overton County as OPT OUT and Livingston as EXEMPT from the state-administered residential program19. An owner or contractor in unincorporated Overton County may request State Fire Marshal inspections for a one- or two-family dwelling, and the state releases a Certificate of Occupancy only if the dwelling meets statewide construction-safety standards; this is an optional pathway, not a universal county requirement23.

Does Overton County have zoning?

Unincorporated Overton County has no county zoning restrictions outside the Livingston city limits, so the county does not publish zoning districts for that land2425. No county rule sets a minimum dwelling size there15, and no county zoning ordinance sets a minimum lot size16. The county also does not impose zoning-based setbacks, lot-coverage limits or building-height limits on that land262728. Tennessee's agricultural exemption is conditional: a structure must be on land devoted to agricultural use and incidental to the agricultural enterprise, with exceptions including certain nearby public facilities and floodplain land29. Zoning varies countywide because Livingston has municipal zoning districts and a zoning ordinance, but the city—not Overton County—administers those rules3031. TDEC septic permits remain separate from zoning in both jurisdictions6.

How do septic permits work in Overton County?

A Septic System Construction Permit is required to install a septic system or repair a faulty one anywhere in Overton County32. Tennessee's Division of Water Resources administers the permit, and the TDEC Cookeville Environmental Field Office serves Overton County6933. A TDEC Environmental Scientist evaluates the site to determine the required system type34. A new conventional permit costs $400 for design flow up to 1,000 gallons per day, while a new alternative permit costs $500 at the same capacity; added flow costs more, and a repair permit has no permit fee32. Only 15% of Overton County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so complete the site evaluation before fixing a house location or budget17. Before an electrical inspector processes a request for service, written notice must show public sewer service, a septic-permit application or use of an existing septic system35. The installed system needs final inspection before it is covered36.

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

Overton County imposes no county land-use restriction on RV occupancy, temporary camping, tiny-home occupancy, manufactured-home occupancy or accessory dwellings on private land outside Livingston1137123839. That answer is limited to county land-use restrictions; state electrical, septic, health, safety and floodplain rules can still control how a dwelling is served and placed1140. Tennessee provides an inspection pathway for tiny homes intended as permanent residences, while manufactured homes must be set by licensed installers and receive an installation decal4113. Livingston has its own zoning districts, and the available official material does not confirm the city's RV, camping, tiny-home, manufactured-home or accessory-dwelling rules; ask City of Livingston Building and Zoning before buying or placing a unit there45.

Building a home in Overton County: the steps in order

  1. Confirm that the parcel lies outside Livingston, because city building permits and zoning apply inside the city limits, while TDEC handles septic permits in both jurisdictions746.
  1. Arrange the TDEC septic site evaluation early, because only 15% of county soils lack severe conventional drain-field limits3417.
  1. Obtain the Septic System Construction Permit through TDEC before installing or repairing the system10.
  1. Obtain the required Tennessee electrical permit and document public sewer service, a septic-permit application or use of an existing septic system for the electrical-service request735.
  1. If the driveway enters state highway right-of-way, obtain a TDOT highway entrance permit before construction42.
  1. Decide whether to request the optional State Fire Marshal inspection and Certificate of Occupancy pathway for a one- or two-family home43.
  1. Schedule the septic final inspection before the system is covered36.

What should you check before buying land in Overton County?

Verify the Livingston city-limit boundary first because zoning and building-code treatment differs between Livingston and unincorporated Overton County4445. Test the proposed septic area early: only 15% of county soils lack severe conventional drain-field limitations17. Terrain and clearing can also shape the budget because 39.3% of land has a slope of 15% or less and 70.9% is wooded4647. Development in or near a mapped floodplain may require local review, but the current Overton County permit process and administrator could not be confirmed; ask the county before grading, filling or placing a structure40. A driveway on state highway right-of-way requires TDOT approval, while a general county driveway or culvert requirement could not be confirmed42. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.4%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $6764849.

Watch-outs

  • The unincorporated county's no-zoning rules do not apply inside Livingston; contact City of Livingston Building and Zoning at 931.823.1269 for city property450.
  • RV and tiny-home freedom outside Livingston is limited to county land-use restrictions; septic, electrical, floodplain, health and safety rules still apply1112.
  • Overton County-specific floodplain permitting details and a general county driveway or culvert rule could not be confirmed; ask the county before site work40.

Sources

  1. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  2. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  3. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  4. City of Livingston Building and Zoning (cityoflivingston.net)
  5. Government - City of Livingston, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  6. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  7. Overton County Permits & Zoning (overtoncountytn.gov)
  8. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  9. Septic System Construction Permit, quoted and re-checked
  10. Septic System Construction Permit, quoted and re-checked
  11. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  12. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  13. Residential Permit FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  14. Tennessee law on county zoning and building authority
  15. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  16. Tennessee law on county zoning and building authority
  17. 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
  18. Residential Permits Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  19. Residential Permits: Residential Jurisdictions & Inspectors, quoted and re-checked
  20. tn.gov, quoted and re-checked
  21. Livingston Municipal Code, quoted and re-checked
  22. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  23. Statewide Building Construction Code Inspections in “Opt-Out” or “Non-Code” Jurisdictions, quoted and re-checked
  24. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  25. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  26. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  27. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  28. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  29. Exemption from County Zoning Regulation for Buildings on Land Used for Agriculture, quoted and re-checked
  30. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  31. Resources & Quick Links | City of Livingston, TN, quoted and re-checked
  32. Septic System Construction Permit, quoted and re-checked
  33. TDEC Cookeville Environmental Field Office (tn.gov)
  34. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  35. Online Application for Septic Related Services, quoted and re-checked
  36. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  37. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  38. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  39. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  40. Technical Resources - Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, quoted and re-checked
  41. Tennessee State Agencies Celebrate Opening of Knoxville Modular Tiny Home Community, quoted and re-checked
  42. Highway Entrance Permits, quoted and re-checked
  43. Tennessee Statewide Building Construction Code Inspections in “Opt-Out” or “Non-Code” Jurisdictions, quoted and re-checked
  44. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  45. Permits & Zoning - Overton County, Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  46. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  47. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  48. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  49. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  50. Livingston Municipal Code, quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleOverton CountyPickett CountyPutnam CountyClay CountyJackson CountyFentress CountyWhite County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredRequiredLimitedLimitedLimitedRequired
County zoningNoNot publishedNoNoNoNoNot published
Septic permitsTDECTDECTN TDECTDECTDECTDECTDEC

County locator

Overton County in Tennessee

81
County map
Overton County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Overton County scores

Seclusion42100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency71100% ev.
Admin Boringness90100% ev.
Durability76100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost85100% 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 →

$264kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$4,036Land / acre
56.5"Annual rain
3% of yrsSevere drought
3.8 / yr (+3.6)Mid-century 100°F days
12.6 daysMid-century dry spell
2.19" (+7.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.65×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,625Home insurance / yr
0.8% / yrInsurance growth
0.77%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
78,989People within 30 min
3,575,186People within 2 hr
37,762Radius comparison (15 mi)
53.8People / sq mi
0.8%Federal land
39.3%Land at 15% slope or less
15%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
38,317 acWorkable land screen
70.9%Wooded land
60.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
56.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Overton 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 Livingston

Answers from the rulebook for Overton County

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

Overton County rules

  • Building permitNot required

    Building permits for property in Overton County outside the Livingston city limits.

    • The county page directs property owners inside the Livingston city limits to contact Livingston City Hall for more information.
    • This claim concerns building permits; the same county page separately states that electrical permits are required by the State of Tennessee and that septic permits may be obtained through the state.
    “Building permits are not required for Overton County. If the property is in the city limits of Livingston, call City Hall at 931-823-1269 for more information.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Overton 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 county page directs property owners inside the Livingston city limits to contact Livingston City Hall for more information.
    • This claim concerns building permits; the same county page separately states that electrical permits are required by the State of Tennessee and that septic permits may be obtained through the state.
    “Building permits are not required for Overton County. If the property is in the city limits of Livingston, call City Hall at 931-823-1269 for more information.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Building-code adoption and enforcement across Overton County, including unincorporated Overton County and the City of Livingston.

    • The Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office lists Overton County as OPT OUT of the State Residential Building Program.
    • The same official state list identifies Livingston as EXEMPT, so building-code administration differs between the county and the municipality.
    • The county states that it has no building codes outside the Livingston city limits.
    • The state list states that its information was accurate as of 2026-08-21.
    “Overton County | OPT OUT | Lewis Bryant | lwbryant@yahoo.com (lmchenry06@yahoo.com) | 931-644-3935 Livingston | EXEMPT”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not adopted (with conditions) — State residential building-code program coverage for unincorporated Overton County, for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
      “Overton County | OPT OUT | Lewis Bryant | lwbryant@yahoo.com (lmchenry06@yahoo.com) | 931-644-3935”
    • Not adopted — Building codes for properties in unincorporated Overton County outside the Livingston city limits.
      “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
    • Partial — Residential building-code program status for Overton County and Livingston as listed by the Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office.
      “Overton County | OPT OUT | Lewis Bryant | lwbryant@yahoo.com (lmchenry06@yahoo.com) | 931-644-3935 Livingston | EXEMPT |   |   |”
    • Not adopted — Properties in Overton County outside the Livingston City Limits.
      “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County zoning restrictions in unincorporated Overton County, outside the Livingston city limits.

    • The official county statement expressly excludes properties inside the Livingston city limits.
    • Other state requirements, including electrical and septic permitting, may still apply.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — Properties in Overton County outside the Livingston City Limits.
      “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Overton County: unincorporated areas and the incorporated City of Livingston.

    • Unincorporated areas outside Livingston city limits have no county zoning restrictions according to the county.
    • Livingston has municipal zoning districts and a municipal zoning ordinance; municipal rules apply within the city limits.
    • The county page directs property owners inside Livingston to contact City Hall for building-permit information.
    “Our zoning map provides a clear overview of how land is designated for various uses throughout Livingston, ensuring balanced growth and development. Click to view the map and learn more about our community's zoning districts.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Absent — Properties in unincorporated Overton County outside the Livingston city limits.
      “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Local zoning across Overton County, aggregating the county's unincorporated area and the municipality of Livingston.
      “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Countywide aggregate of zoning applicable to properties in Overton County.
      “Land use within the Town of Livingston shall be governed by Ordinance #______, titled "Zoning Ordinance, Livingston, Tennessee," and any amendments thereto.”
  • Zoning districtsNot published

    County zoning districts and zoning restrictions for properties outside Livingston city limits.

    • The county statement is limited to properties outside the Livingston city limits.
    • Livingston city rules may apply inside the city limits.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not published — County zoning districts and zoning restrictions for properties outside Livingston city limits.
      “does not have [...] zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
    • Not published — County zoning districts and zoning restrictions for properties outside Livingston city limits
      “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    Residential dwellings in properties outside the Livingston city limits in Overton County.

    • The source states the absence only for properties outside the Livingston City Limits.
    • Properties within the Livingston city limits are subject to City of Livingston rules.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Minimum lot size · by state lawNone

    Unincorporated Overton County: no county rule sets this, because Overton 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 official county statement expressly excludes properties inside the Livingston city limits.
    • Other state requirements, including electrical and septic permitting, may still apply.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • SetbacksNone

    Zoning-based setback restrictions in properties outside the Livingston city limits in Overton County.

    • The county statement applies outside the Livingston city limits; subdivision regulations or other non-zoning requirements may still affect a particular plat.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Lot coverageNone

    Zoning-based lot-coverage restrictions in properties outside the Livingston city limits in Overton County.

    • The county statement applies outside the Livingston city limits; subdivision regulations or other non-zoning requirements may still affect a particular plat.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Building heightNone

    Zoning-based building-height restrictions in properties outside the Livingston city limits in Overton County.

    • The county statement applies outside the Livingston city limits; incorporated Livingston may have separate rules.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Living in an RVUnrestricted

    RV occupancy on private property in unincorporated Overton County, outside the Livingston city limits.

    • This conclusion is limited to county land-use restrictions; state electrical, septic, health, safety, floodplain, and other applicable rules may still apply.
    • The official county page directs persons with property inside Livingston city limits to contact City Hall for applicable requirements.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Camping on your landUnrestricted

    Temporary camping on private property in unincorporated Overton County, outside the Livingston city limits.

    • This conclusion is limited to county land-use restrictions; state electrical, septic, health, safety, floodplain, and other applicable rules may still apply.
    • The official county page directs persons with property inside Livingston city limits to contact City Hall for applicable requirements.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Tiny homesUnrestricted

    Tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated Overton County, outside the Livingston city limits.

    • This conclusion is limited to county land-use restrictions; state building, electrical, septic, health, safety, floodplain, and other applicable rules may still apply.
    • The official county page directs persons with property inside Livingston city limits to contact City Hall for applicable requirements.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Manufactured homesUnrestricted

    Manufactured-home occupancy on property outside the Livingston city limits in unincorporated Overton County.

    • The county statement applies only outside the Livingston City Limits; Livingston municipal rules may apply within the city.
    • State manufactured-home installation requirements still apply, including use of licensed installers and an installation decal after set-up.
    • Septic, electrical, floodplain, and other applicable state requirements may still apply.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Accessory dwellingsUnrestricted

    Accessory dwelling units in unincorporated Overton County, outside the Livingston city limits.

    • This conclusion is limited to county land-use restrictions; state building, electrical, septic, health, safety, floodplain, and other applicable rules may still apply.
    • The official county page directs persons with property inside Livingston city limits to contact City Hall for applicable requirements.
    “Overton County does not have building codes or zoning restrictions for properties outside of the Livingston City Limits.”
  • Permit processNot published

    Building-permit process for properties in unincorporated Overton County.

    • The source states that properties inside Livingston city limits should contact Livingston City Hall for more information.
    • State electrical permits remain required and are obtained online through Tennessee.
    “Building permits are not required for Overton County.”

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • InspectionsLimited

    State Fire Marshal inspections for one- and two-family dwellings or other buildings, structures, or premises located in an opt-out or non-code jurisdiction, including Overton County, which the State lists as OPT OUT.

    • Inspection is available upon request by the owner in an opt-out or non-code jurisdiction.
    • The inspection determines whether the building, structure, or premises meets statewide building construction safety standards.
    • The State Fire Marshal page separately states that the owner of a one- or two-family dwelling or the contractor may obtain a state building permit.
    “In 2017, the Tennessee General Assembly passed a law that allows an owner of a building, structure or premises located within an “opt-out” or “non-code” jurisdiction to request the State Fire Marshal’s Office to inspect the building, structure or premises to determine if it meets the statewide building construction safety standards.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    One- and two-family dwellings, including new construction and additions to existing homes, located in Overton County, which Tennessee identifies as an opt-out jurisdiction.

    • Overton County is listed as OPT OUT of the State Residential Building Program.
    • The owner or contractor may obtain a state building permit and request State Fire Marshal's Office inspections.
    • The State Fire Marshal's Office releases a certificate of occupancy only if the dwelling is determined to meet statewide building construction safety standards.
    • The source describes an inspection-and-certificate pathway for opt-out jurisdictions; it does not state that a certificate of occupancy is universally mandatory for every Overton County residence.
    “The State Fire Marshal’s Office will release a Certificate of Occupancy, often referred to as a “CO.””
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — One- and two-family dwellings, including new construction and additions to existing homes, in the Overton County jurisdiction identified by Tennessee as OPT OUT; the state pathway is relevant outside Livingston because Livingston is separately identified as EXEMPT.
      “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. 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.””
    • Limited — Certificates of occupancy for one- and two-family dwellings in Tennessee opt-out or non-code jurisdictions when the State Fire Marshal's Office inspects the dwelling during construction.
      “determined to meet the statewide building construction safety standards, the State Fire Marshal’s Office will release a Certificate of Occupancy”
  • 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.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State — Subsurface sewage disposal systems in Overton County, including installation and repair of septic systems.
      “Completed application forms and application fees should be sent to the Division of Water Resources”
    • State — Subsurface sewage disposal systems in Overton County, including installation and repair of septic systems.
      “Cannon, Clay, Cumberland, Dekalb, Fentress, Jackson, Macon, Overton [...] The Division of Water Resources manages, protects, and enhances the quality of the state’s water resources”
    • State — Subsurface sewage disposal systems serving properties in Overton County, including construction, repair, site evaluation, permitting, and final inspection.
      “A TDEC Environmental Scientist will conduct a site evaluation to determine the type of septic system required for your property.”
    • 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

    Installing a new septic system or repairing an existing faulty septic system on property in Overton County.

    • The permit requirement applies to installation of a subsurface sewage disposal system and repair of an existing faulty system.
    • Applicants must submit site and property information; soils maps may be required, and large conventional or alternative systems require system design by a licensed engineer.
    • Completed applications and fees are submitted to the appropriate Environmental Field Office.
    • The review generally takes 10 days and must be completed within 45 days of submission.
    • Listed fees include $400 for a new conventional or large-diameter graveless-pipe permit up to 1,000 gallons per day, $100 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day, $500 for a new alternative permit up to 1,000 gallons per day, $150 for each additional 1,000 gallons per day, $500 for an experimental permit, and no permit fee for a repair permit.

    new conventional or large diameter graveless pipe permit: 400 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($100 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · new alternative SSDS permit: 500 USD up to 1000 gallons per day design flow ($150 for each additional 1000 gpd flow) · experimental SSDS permit: 500 USD · repair permit fee: 0 USD · application completion deadline: <= 45 days (The page states the review generally takes 10 days.)

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

    Installation of subsurface sewage disposal systems in Tennessee.

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

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

    “The applicant or SSDS installer must notify the Division when a system has been installed so that it can be inspected and approved.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — A permitted septic-system installation on an Overton County property, before the system is covered.
      “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 — Final inspection of septic-system installations in Overton County before the system is covered.
      “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."”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Obtaining electrical service for a proposed house or establishment in Overton County.
      “On July 1, 1994, T.C.A. 68-221-414 became effective. This bill requires that before the electrical inspector can process a request for electrical service, he/she must be provided with written notification that the proposed house or establishment is served by a public sewer system, or, that a septic system permit has been applied for, or, that an existing septic system will be used.”
    • 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
    • Conditional — County zoning regulation of buildings or structures on agricultural land, including in Overton County, under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-114.
      “To be exempt from county zoning regulation under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-114, a building or structure must meet two requirements: (1) it must be located on lands “devoted to agricultural uses;” and (2) it must be “incidental to the agricultural enterprise.””
  • Driveway accessRequired

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

    • The permit is required only for access involving the State Highway System or state highway right-of-way.
    • Residential or field driveway applicants should contact the local TDOT District Office directly.
    • Overton County is served by TDOT District 27 for residential entrance permits.
    “Under state law, a permit is required before construction of a driveway on state highway right-of-way [...] Property owners must obtain a permit from TDOT.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction, modification, revision, or change in use of a driveway on Tennessee state highway right-of-way.
      “Under state law, a permit is required before construction of a driveway on state highway right-of-way, including the modification, revision, or change in use”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    “$0 to $5,000 | $100 | $100 | $100 $5,001 to $100,000 | $350 | $100 | $100”
  • 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 Overton County

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Property, buildings, and structures in the Town/City of Livingston, Tennessee.

    • The adopted International Building Code is the 2012 edition and excludes all appendices.
    • The code is subject to the additions, insertions, deletions, and changes prescribed in § 12-102.
    • The municipal-code provision provides for permits and fee collection.

    building permit fee: 0.5 percent of total project cost (Includes building, renovating, demolition, or moving.)

    “2012 edition, excluding all of the appendices, as published by the International Code Council, be and is hereby adopted as the building code of the Town of Livingston, in the State of Tennessee”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use within the Town/City of Livingston, Tennessee.

    • Land use is governed by the document titled "Zoning Ordinance, Livingston, Tennessee," and its amendments.
    • The City of Livingston identifies Building and Zoning as the city service for zoning, with John Hunt listed at 931-823-1269.
    “Land use within the Town of Livingston shall be governed by Ordinance #______, titled "Zoning Ordinance, Livingston, Tennessee," and any amendments thereto.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land within the Livingston municipal limits.
      “Our zoning map provides a clear overview of how land is designated for various uses throughout Livingston, ensuring balanced growth and development. Click to view the map and learn more about our community's zoning districts.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Zoning districts and zoning controls within the City of Livingston.

    “City Charter Municipal Code Zoning Map Zoning Ordinance”

Still unanswered

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

  • Off-grid sanitation — Privies and composting toilets used for non-water-carriage human-excreta disposal at an Overton County property.
  • Well permit — Whether the property owner must obtain a water-well permit before drilling a private well in Overton County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term or vacation rental use of residential property in unincorporated Overton 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 Overton County, Tennessee

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

Overton County scores 81/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: about 78,989 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Overton 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). 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 Overton County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Overton County is allowed: RV occupancy on private property in unincorporated Overton County, outside the Livingston city limits. This conclusion is limited to county land-use restrictions; state electrical, septic, health, safety, floodplain, and other applicable rules may still apply. The official county page directs persons with property inside Livingston city limits to contact City Hall for applicable requirements. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Overton County, Tennessee?

Land in Overton County runs about $4,036 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Overton County?

Overton County gets about 56.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3% of years.

How remote is Overton County?

A representative private-land location has about 78,989 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,575,186 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 Overton compares in Tennessee

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