Bolthole Index

Rutherford County, Tennessee

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

53Index Score / 100
#93 of 95 in Tennessee

Unincorporated Rutherford County, Tennessee requires building permits for covered construction and county zoning approval for structures and land uses12. TDEC handles septic permits; obtain septic or STEP documentation and zoning compliance before applying to Building Codes34. Required inspections and a Certificate of Occupancy must be completed before move-in56.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for covered work in unincorporated Rutherford County1
Zoning
County zoning regulates land uses and structures in unincorporated areas2
Residential permit fee
$0.70 per square foot under beam for a new dwelling or added living space7
Septic permits
TDEC handles new septic permits; STEP and city sewer require provider verification38
RV living
Generally prohibited outside an approved campground, with narrow guest, disaster and construction exceptions9
Tiny homes
Allowed only with planning approval, a building permit and the applicable construction and utility standards10
Owner-builder
Owners may pull their own permits for minor projects but become responsible for inspections11
Move-in
A Certificate of Occupancy from Building Codes is required6

Who to call

Building permits

Rutherford County Building Codes Department

Issues commercial and residential building permits, electrical permits, and property maintenance/zoning enforcement for unincorporated Rutherford County

615-898-7734

1 South Public Square, Room 101, Murfreesboro, TN 37130

Planning & zoning

Rutherford County Planning & Engineering

Administers the county Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations, reviews accessory dwelling unit (ADU) applications, and staffs the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals

615-898-7730

1 South Public Square, Room 200, Murfreesboro, TN 37130

Septic permits

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Division of Water Resources

Issues and inspects Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (septic) construction permits for Rutherford County

(615) 687-7000

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 11, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Rutherford 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 Rutherford County, Tennessee?

Yes. Unincorporated Rutherford County requires a permit before covered construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, movement, demolition, occupancy changes, or regulated trade work begins1. The county uses the 2024 family of International Codes for applicable projects12. A qualifying agricultural structure is exempt from building permits and related fees when the property has at least 5 acres, has an established agricultural use, and the structure is used exclusively for agriculture; a Certificate of Zoning Compliance must still go to Building Codes13. Property owners may obtain their own permits for minor projects, but then act as permit holder and contractor and are solely responsible for requesting and completing inspections11. Inside Smyrna, the town issues building permits; TDEC still handles septic systems where public sewer is unavailable1415.

Who is the Rutherford County building department, and how do you reach them?

The Rutherford County Building Codes Department is at 1 South Public Square, Room 101, Murfreesboro, TN 37130; call 615-898-773416. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and issues no permits after 4:15 p.m.16. Planning and zoning questions go to Rutherford County Planning & Engineering at 1 South Public Square, Room 200, Murfreesboro, TN 37130; call 615-898-773017. The residential building-permit schedule charges $0.70 per square foot under beam for a new dwelling or added living space7. Zoning compliance costs $250 for a new principal residence, addition, or accessory dwelling unit and $150 for a detached accessory structure, subject to posted changes and stated waivers18. The applicant must request inspections and obtain approval before continuing to the next construction phase; building inspections are included in the building-permit fee, but plumbing, gas, electrical and mechanical inspections are separate5. Move-in requires a Certificate of Occupancy from Building Codes6.

Does Rutherford County have zoning?

Rutherford County zoning governs structures and land uses in unincorporated areas2. Murfreesboro, Smyrna and La Vergne administer their own zoning192021. TDEC remains the septic authority for properties in those cities using septic systems rather than public sewer221523. Eagleville also has its own zoning ordinance24. County zoning districts are established through the ordinance and official zoning map, with district-specific lot sizes, setbacks, heights and coverage limits2526. The AR district has a 5-acre minimum lot area; RL requires 1 acre and RM requires 15,000 square feet, subject to applicable exceptions2728. RL and RM have a 35-foot maximum building height29. A detached accessory dwelling unit must contain at least 300 square feet; that is not a general minimum for principal homes30. Ask Planning & Engineering to confirm the parcel’s district and applicable exceptions before designing17.

How do septic permits work in Rutherford County?

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation administers subsurface sewage disposal permitting in Rutherford County331. Installing or repairing a septic system requires TDEC construction permitting, while projects on C.U.D. STEP or Murfreesboro city sewer must provide the applicable provider's verification before county permit issuance832. Planning directs applicants to obtain the septic map or permit first, then a Certificate of Zoning Compliance, before taking the documents to Building Codes4. A new conventional permit costs $400 for design flow up to 1,000 gallons per day, while a new alternative permit costs $500 at that flow33. The installer must notify TDEC after installation, and the system must receive a final inspection before it is covered34. Only 16.2% of Rutherford County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so settle the septic path early35.

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

Rutherford County prohibits occupying an RV outside an approved campground except in narrow circumstances9. Visiting relatives or invited guests may occupy one RV or camping trailer on a residential lot for no more than 14 days in a calendar year36. Disaster displacement or construction of an unoccupiable principal residence can qualify for a 6-month temporary-use permit, with one additional 6-month period possible; approved water, sewer, and electric service is required, and construction occupancy also requires a valid building permit9. Rutherford County defines a tiny house as 400 square feet or less, excluding lofts10. A site-built tiny house needs a permanent foundation, an approved septic system, and compliance with the applicable residential code appendix; a pre-manufactured unit needs the state modular-building label10. Planning approval and a building permit are required before placement10.

How do you build a home in Rutherford County, Tennessee?

  1. Confirm the zoning district, dimensional rules, proposed use, and any subdivision review with Planning & Engineering25263717.
  2. Obtain the TDEC septic map or permit, C.U.D. STEP verification, or city-sewer verification that applies to the parcel432.
  3. Obtain a Certificate of Zoning Compliance from Planning & Engineering4.
  4. Take the required documents to Building Codes and pay before review416.
  5. Request and pass inspections at the required construction stages5.
  6. Obtain the Certificate of Occupancy before moving in6.
  7. Check driveway placement and culvert sizing with Engineering and the Highway Department; single-family and duplex driveway openings must be at least 2 feet from an adjoining interior lot line, and culvert pipes must be at least 15 inches unless Engineering requires more38. A concrete or asphalt driveway needs no building permit unless its slab is intended as a foundation for a future project or structure39. A driveway on state highway right-of-way also needs a TDOT permit40.

What should you check before buying land in Rutherford County?

Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Rutherford County or a municipality, then verify its zoning district, minimum lot area, setbacks, lot-coverage cap, height limit, legal access, and subdivision status before treating it as buildable22741424337. Test the septic path early because only 16.2% of Rutherford County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field35. Ask Planning & Engineering whether the parcel lies in a mapped flood-hazard area; the ordinance imposes specific elevation rules on manufactured homes in mapped flood zones4417. The terrain is generally gentle, with 91.7% of land at a slope of 15% or less, while 53.8% is wooded4546. We could not confirm the private-well permit rule; ask TDEC’s Division of Water Resources which well approvals apply before closing47.

Watch-outs

  • Do not treat an RV as an unrestricted construction residence: the temporary-use exception requires a valid building permit, approved utilities, and ends when the principal home receives occupancy approval9.
  • A farm parcel is not automatically permit-free: Rutherford County's agricultural-building exemption requires at least 5 acres, an established agricultural use, exclusive agricultural use of the structure, and a Certificate of Zoning Compliance13.
  • The confirmed 300-square-foot minimum applies to detached accessory dwelling units, not every home; ask Planning & Engineering about principal-home size and manufactured-home occupancy in the parcel's district3017.

Sources

  1. Building Code FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  2. Planning & Engineering - Rutherford County, TN, quoted and re-checked
  3. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Permits, quoted and re-checked
  4. Building Code FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  5. Residential Building Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  6. Building Code FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  7. Rutherford County Residential Building Permit Fees, quoted and re-checked
  8. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Permits, quoted and re-checked
  9. Building Code FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  10. Residential Building Information, quoted and re-checked
  11. Residential Building Codes and Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  12. Building Code Adoption, quoted and re-checked
  13. Planning & Engineering FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  14. Town of Smyrna: Permits (Rutherford County), quoted and re-checked
  15. Town of Smyrna: Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions (Rutherford County), quoted and re-checked
  16. Rutherford County Building Codes Department (rutherfordcountytn.gov)
  17. Rutherford County Planning & Engineering (rutherfordcountytn.gov)
  18. Planning & Engineering FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  19. Murfreesboro: Zoning Ordinance_City of Murfreesboro (Rutherford County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Town of Smyrna: Town of Smyrna Municipal Zoning Ordinance (Rutherford County), quoted and re-checked
  21. La Vergne: Zoning Ordinance | La Vergne, TN (Rutherford County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Murfreesboro: Septic System Construction Permit (Rutherford County), quoted and re-checked
  23. La Vergne: Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Permits (Rutherford County), quoted and re-checked
  24. Zoning Ordinance, City of Eagleville Tennessee, quoted and re-checked
  25. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  26. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  27. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  28. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  29. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  30. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  31. Septic System Construction Permit (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  32. rutherfordcountytn.gov, quoted and re-checked
  33. Septic System Construction Permit (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  34. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Frequently Asked Questions (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  35. 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
  36. Building Code FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  37. Planning & Engineering, quoted and re-checked
  38. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, Access Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  39. Building Code FAQ - Rutherford County, TN, quoted and re-checked
  40. Highway Entrance Permits (Tennessee statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  41. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  42. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  43. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  44. Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  45. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  46. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  47. Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Division of Water Resources (solidwaste.rutherfordcountytn.gov)

Written October 11, 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

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Rutherford County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleRutherford CountyCannon CountyBedford CountyWilson CountyWilliamson CountyCoffee CountyDeKalb County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesNo
Septic permitsTDECTDECTDECTDECWilliamson CountyTDECTDEC

County locator

Rutherford County in Tennessee

53
County map
Rutherford County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Rutherford County scores

Seclusion23100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency67100% ev.
Admin Boringness40100% ev.
Durability70100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost62100% 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 →

$420kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$10,250Land / acre
55"Annual rain
3.6% of yrsSevere drought
10.7 / yr (+9.6)Mid-century 100°F days
14.8 daysMid-century dry spell
2.37" (+7.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.54×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,883Home insurance / yr
0.9% / yrInsurance growth
1.21%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
200,627People within 30 min
4,037,843People within 2 hr
274,106Radius comparison (15 mi)
592.8People / sq mi
2.2%Federal land
91.7%Land at 15% slope or less
16.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
62,952 acWorkable land screen
53.8%Wooded land
39.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
59.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Rutherford County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Eagleville

Answers from the rulebook for Rutherford County

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

Rutherford County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, movement, occupancy changes, and placement of mobile, manufactured, or modular homes in Rutherford County-administered areas.

    • Exemptions include one-story detached storage buildings without a concrete foundation up to 120 square feet, fences not over 7 feet, certain sidewalks/patios/driveways, finish work, and prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep.
    • Permits are applied for in person at the Department of Building Codes, One Public Square, Room 101, Murfreesboro; office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:15 p.m.
    • Failure to obtain approval and a permit results in a double permit fee.

    storage-building floor area threshold: <= 120 square feet (one-story detached storage building without a concrete foundation) · fence height exemption: <= 7 feet (Fence Affidavit required) · prefabricated pool depth exemption: < 24 inches

    “Any owner, or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application and obtain the required permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Erection, moving, addition to, or structural alteration of a building or other structure in unincorporated Rutherford County.
      “Any owner, or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application and obtain the required permit.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Property owners obtaining their own building permits for minor construction projects on their property.

    • The owner becomes the permit holder and own contractor.
    • The owner is solely responsible for requesting and completing inspections.
    • The county will not pursue legal action against the owner's contractor if an inspection is not completed.
    “Please note, property owners who wish to obtain their own building permit for minor construction projects completed on their property may do so. However, if this is the scenario, it is understood that they then become the permit holder, their own contractor and therefore solely responsible for ensuring that all inspections are requested and completed per the checklist above.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Applicable construction projects within Rutherford County.

    • The 2024 family of International Codes replaced the previously adopted 2018 editions.
    • Adoption became effective immediately upon approval at the May 14, 2026 meeting.
    “The Rutherford County Board of Commissioners at the May 14, 2026, meeting voted to adopt the 2024 family of the International Codes, replacing the previously adopted 2018 editions. This adoption became effective immediately upon approval.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Applicable construction projects governed by Rutherford County's adopted building codes.

    • The county states that the adopted codes govern review, permitting, and inspection.
    • Final inspections and any trade inspections may be required before occupancy.
    “These updated codes will govern the review, permitting, and inspection of applicable construction projects within Rutherford County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction work covered by the adopted building codes.
      “The adopted codes require that all work must be inspected, at specific intervals during the construction process, by a certified building inspector.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Occupancy of structures subject to Rutherford County building-code administration.

    • The county FAQ states that move-in requires a Certificate of Occupancy from the Building Codes Department.
    • A temporary Certificate of Occupancy may be available under stated conditions; a temporary certificate is effective for 90 days and requires inspection and a deposit.
    • For commercial structures, the C/O follows completion of building components, associated permits, grading/site-plan items, and applicable department and Special Use Permit conditions.

    temporary certificate duration: 90 days

    “You can move in your house only upon the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy from the Building Codes Department.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Rutherford County zoning regulation in the county-administered, unincorporated area.

    • The county publishes and administers a Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance.
    • The cited ordinance is effective January 1, 2013 and amended through December 11, 2025.
    • Incorporated municipalities may administer separate municipal zoning ordinances.
    “No structure shall be constructed, erected, placed or maintained and no land use commenced or continued within the unincorporated Rutherford County except as specifically or by necessary implication, authorized by this ordinance.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land uses, structures, and development within unincorporated Rutherford County.
      “No structure shall be constructed, erected, placed or maintained and no land use commenced or continued within the unincorporated Rutherford County except as specifically or by necessary implication, authorized by this ordinance.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Rutherford County zoning ordinance administration in unincorporated Rutherford County.
      “Zoning Ordinance-adopted 11-15-12 as amended 12-11-2025”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Zoning districts and district-specific bulk regulations in Rutherford County's zoning ordinance.

    • The ordinance publishes residential, commercial, and special-character district bulk-regulation tables.
    • District tables contain minimum lot area, lot width, setbacks, maximum height, and maximum lot coverage; use-specific exceptions and other ordinance chapters may apply.
    “Table 1. Residential Districts – Bulk Regulations”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning districts and official zoning-map administration.
      “The following zoning districts are established.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Detached accessory dwelling units in Rutherford County residential zoning districts.

    • The ADU is subject to the square-footage limitations for accessory structures in Subsection 1101 D.
    • The ADU may not exceed the size of the principal structure.
    • A minimum area of 300 square feet is required.
    • A minimum of one acre of land area is required.
    • ADUs are permitted in residential zoning districts only in connection with a lawfully existing single-family dwelling.
    • Only one ADU is allowed per lot, and ADUs are not allowed with duplex or multifamily dwelling units.
    • A recorded covenant, development tax fees, additional off-street parking, floor plans or architectural renderings, septic-capacity verification, and adequate water and electric service verification are required before permitting.
    • ADUs involving mobile homes or tiny houses/manufactured tiny homes require a special exception; the Board of Zoning Appeals may impose additional standards or conditions.

    minimum dwelling area: >= 300 square feet (ADU size remains subject to accessory-structure limits and may not exceed the principal structure)

    “The size of the dwelling unit will be subject to the square footage limitations for accessory structures listed in the table found in Subsection 1101 D of this ordinance and such unit shall in no case exceed the size of the principal structure. An ADU must however, provide the minimum area requirement of 300 square feet as required by the building codes currently in effect for Rutherford County for a dwelling unit.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential zoning districts covered by Table 1 of the Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance.

    • Requirements vary by zoning district and exceptions in sections 404 A and B.
    • Examples include AR Agricultural Residential: 217,800 square feet (5 acres); RMF Residential Multi-Family: 6,000 square feet plus 4,000 square feet per additional dwelling; and MHP Mobile Home Park: 3 acres with 7 dwelling units per acre.

    AR minimum lot area: 217800 square feet (5 acres) · RMF minimum lot area: 6000 square feet (4,000 square feet per additional dwelling) · MHP minimum lot area: 3 acres (7 dwelling units per acre)

    “AR – Agricultural Residential 217,800 sq. ft. (5 acres)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Residential zoning districts and the Mobile Home Park district listed in the Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance.
      “RL - Low Density Residential 43,560 sq. ft. (1 acre) [...] RM - Medium Density Residential 15,000 sq. ft. [...] RMF Residential Multi-Family 6,000 sq. ft. [...] MHP Mobile Home Park 3 acres (7 DUs per acre)”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings in the Rutherford County zoning districts listed in the dimensional schedule.

    • Setbacks vary by district and use.
    • The excerpt lists RL front 40 feet, rear 20 feet, side 10 feet; RM front 40 feet, rear 20 feet, side 10 feet; RMF front 30 feet, rear 15 feet for single-family and 25 feet for multifamily, side 10 feet for single-family and 25 feet for multifamily; MHP front 75 feet, rear 50 feet, side 50 feet.

    RL front setback: 40 feet (district-specific) · RL rear setback: 20 feet (district-specific) · RL side setback: 10 feet (district-specific) · MHP front setback: 75 feet (mobile home park district) · MHP rear setback: 50 feet (mobile home park district) · MHP side setback: 50 feet (mobile home park district)

    “Front – 40 ft. Rear - 20 ft. Side -10 ft. [...] Front - 30 ft. Rear -15 ft. (25 ft. for multi-family) Side – 10 ft. (25 ft. for multi-family). [...] Front - 75 ft. Rear - 50 ft. Side - 50 ft.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Residential and other uses in Rutherford County zoning districts listed in the dimensional schedule.

    • Lot coverage varies by district and use.
    • The excerpt lists RL residential coverage at 20 percent, RM residential coverage at 25 percent, RMF coverage at 40 percent, and MHP coverage at 40 percent; other-use percentages differ where stated.

    RL residential lot coverage: 20 percent (district-specific) · RM residential lot coverage: 25 percent (district-specific) · RMF lot coverage: 40 percent (district-specific) · MHP lot coverage: 40 percent (district-specific)

    “RL - Low Density Residential [...] 35 ft. Residential - 20% [...] RM - Medium Density Residential [...] 35 ft. Residential - 25% [...] RMF Residential Multi-Family [...] 45 ft. 40% [...] MHP Mobile Home Park [...] 15 ft. 40%”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Buildings in Rutherford County zoning districts listed in the dimensional schedule.

    • Maximum height varies by district and use.
    • The cited schedule includes 35 feet for RL and RM residential districts, 45 feet for RMF, and 15 feet for MHP.

    RL maximum height: 35 feet (district-specific) · RM maximum height: 35 feet (district-specific) · RMF maximum height: 45 feet (district-specific) · MHP maximum height: 15 feet (district-specific)

    “RL - Low Density Residential [...] 35 ft. [...] RM - Medium Density Residential [...] 35 ft. [...] RMF Residential Multi-Family [...] 45 ft. [...] MHP Mobile Home Park [...] 15 ft.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Maximum building height in Rutherford County zoning districts.
      “MHP Mobile Home Park 3 acres (7 DUs per acre) 250 ft. Front - 75 ft. Rear - 50 ft. Side - 50 ft. 15 ft. 40%”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Living, sleeping, or housekeeping in one recreational vehicle or camping trailer on a residential lot outside an approved campground.

    • Bona fide visiting relatives or invited guests are limited to 14 days in any calendar year.
    • After fire or natural disaster, a temporary-use permit may last six months, with one additional six-month period possible; approved water, sewer, and electric facilities and IBC separation standards are required, and use ends upon primary-dwelling occupancy approval.
    • During construction or renovation of an unoccupiable principal residence, a six-month temporary-use permit requires a valid building permit; one additional six-month period may be granted; approved utilities and IBC separation standards are required; use ends upon primary-dwelling occupancy approval.

    guest occupancy limit: <= 14 days per calendar year (bona fide visiting relatives or invited guests) · temporary use permit period: 6 months (additional six-month period may be granted)

    “The Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance prohibits occupation of a Recreational Vehicle (RV) on any property that is not an approved campground, except as allowed under the following circumstances:”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary residential camping in one RV or camping trailer on a residential lot outside an approved campground.

    • The ordinance allows only the specified temporary circumstances and limits visiting relatives or guests to 14 days in a calendar year.
    • Disaster and construction-related occupancy requires a temporary-use permit and approved utilities; construction-related occupancy also requires a valid principal-dwelling building permit.

    guest occupancy limit: <= 14 days per calendar year

    “In any residential zone, usage of one recreation vehicle or one camping trailer on a lot for living, sleeping or housekeeping purposes will only be allowed under the following circumstances:”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Site-built and pre-manufactured tiny homes in Rutherford County-administered areas.

    • A tiny house is defined by the county page as 400 square feet or less excluding lofts.
    • Site-built tiny houses must comply with 2024 IRC Appendix BB, use a permanent foundation, and connect to an approved SSDS.
    • Pre-manufactured tiny houses are regulated under the Tennessee Modular Buildings Act and require a permanently affixed Tennessee Modular Building label.
    • Planning approval and a building permit must be obtained before placement.

    tiny-house floor area: <= 400 square feet (excluding lofts)

    “Before purchasing or placing a unit on your property, approval and a building permit must first be obtained.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Residential and ADU projects using septic, STEP, or municipal sewer in Rutherford County.

    • ADU projects may connect to the primary home's septic system only if capacity for both homes is proven.
    • New septic systems require a TDEC permit.
    • Projects on the C.U.D. STEP system or Murfreesboro City Sewer System must be verified with those entities before permit issuance.
    • RV temporary-use exceptions require approved water, sewer, and electric facilities.
    “In some situations, an ADU can be hooked up to the primary home's septic system, but you will need proof that the system is capable of supporting both homes.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Structures used exclusively for agricultural purposes on property in Rutherford County's county-administered area.

    • The property must be at least 5 acres.
    • The property must have an established agricultural use.
    • The structures must be used exclusively for agricultural purposes.
    • The exemption covers building permits and related fees.
    • A Certificate of Zoning Compliance must still be completed and provided to the Building Codes Department.
    • Agricultural use is a use by right under these conditions and is not a zoning classification.

    minimum property size: >= 5 acres

    “If the property is at least 5 acres in size and has an established agricultural use, any structures used exclusively for agricultural purposes are exempt from building permits and related fees. However, a Certificate of Zoning Compliance should be completed in the Planning & Engineering Dept. and provided to the Building Codes Dept.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Agricultural structures in Rutherford County subject to the county Planning & Engineering FAQ conditions.
      “If the property is at least 5 acres in size and has an established agricultural use, any structures used exclusively for agricultural purposes are exempt from building permits and related fees. However, a Certificate of Zoning Compliance should be completed in the Planning & Engineering Dept. and provided to the Building Codes Dept.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plats and related development review submitted to Rutherford County.

    • The county identifies subdivision regulations amended through June 10, 2024.
    • Subdivision plats are submitted for county review; preliminary and final plan checklists and subdivision-waiver procedures apply.
    • Most building permits other than one- and two-family dwellings and residential accessory structures require site-plan approval before permit application.
    “This new application form is used for all subdivision plats and subdivision plats submitted to Rutherford County for review.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway openings, corner-lot access, driveway culverts, and related parking access under the Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance.

    • For nonresidential and multifamily uses, the minimum distance from an interior lot line to a driveway opening is determined during site plan review.
    • For single-family and duplex uses, that minimum distance is 2 feet.
    • For residential corner lots, the minimum distance from the intersection of street right-of-way lines is at the discretion of the Engineering Department.
    • For nonresidential and multifamily uses on corner lots, the distance is determined during site plan review.
    • Driveway culverts must be sized for necessary stormwater; pipes must be at least 15 inches unless larger size is required by the Engineering Department.
    • All culvert materials must be approved by the Highway Department.
    • The ordinance also states that parking applications requiring three or more accessory off-street spaces must include a Chapter 14 site plan.

    minimum driveway opening distance from adjoining interior lot line for single-family and duplexes: 2 feet · minimum driveway culvert diameter: >= 15 inches (May be larger as determined by the Engineering Department.)

    “Single-family and duplexes – Two (2) feet [...] All driveways culverts shall be sized for the amount of stormwater necessary. Such pipes shall be a minimum of 15 inches and may be larger as determined by the Engineering Department. All materials must be approved by the Highway Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Concrete or asphalt driveways in Rutherford County.
      “Sidewalks, patios and driveways provided they are not intended to be built upon at a future date (a foundation permit will be required if the slab is intended for use as a foundation for a future project/structure)”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Development and manufactured-home placement in mapped flood-hazard areas governed by the Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance.

    • Manufactured homes placed on individual lots, in expansions, or in new or substantially improved manufactured-home parks or subdivisions must meet new-construction requirements.
    • Existing manufactured-home parks/subdivisions in AE zones require the lowest floor on a permanent foundation at least 3 feet above base flood elevation.
    • Approximate A zones without base flood elevations require the chassis elevated and supported by reinforced piers or equivalent elements at least 3 feet above highest adjacent grade.
    • Flood-damaged manufactured homes must meet the ordinance's substantial-damage standards.

    AE-zone elevation above base flood elevation: >= 3 feet (lowest floor on permanent foundation) · approximate A-zone elevation above highest adjacent grade: >= 3 feet (reinforced piers or equivalent support)

    “All manufactured homes placed, or substantially improved, on: (1) individual lots or parcels, (2) in expansions to existing manufactured home parks or subdivisions, or (3) in new or substantially improved manufactured home parks or subdivisions, must meet all the requirements of new construction.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published Rutherford County planning, zoning-compliance, and land-disturbance permit fees.

    • Zoning Compliance fees are effective July 1, 2023.
    • The $250 fee applies to new principal residential structures, additions, and ADUs.
    • The $150 fee applies to detached accessory structures including garages, sheds, and pools.
    • The zoning-compliance fee is subject to change with posted notice.
    • The fee is waived with proof of destruction by fire or natural disaster within a one-year period.
    • The fee is also waived when the applicant has completed a committee process before certificate approval, including Board of Zoning Appeals or Planning Commission.
    • Agricultural land-disturbance activity determined by county staff receives a permit at no fee.
    • Land disturbance over one acre requires a county permit; TDEC permitting may also apply.

    zoning compliance fee for new principal residential structures, additions, and ADUs: 250 USD (Effective July 1, 2023; subject to change with posted notice; specified waivers apply.) · zoning compliance fee for detached accessory structures: 150 USD (Effective July 1, 2023; subject to change with posted notice; specified waivers apply.) · land disturbance fee for agricultural use: 0 USD (County Planning and Engineering staff must determine the activity is agricultural use.)

    “Effective July 1, 2023 - For all new principal residential structures, additions and ADUs the fee is $250. For all detached accessory structures (e.g., garage, shed, pools, etc.) the fee is $150. This is subject to change with posted notice.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Rutherford County residential building permit fees listed in the county residential fee schedule.
      “RUTHERFORD COUNTY RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMIT FEES EFFECTIVE 7/1/2023 NEW DWELLING | ADDITON OF NEW LIVING SPACE PERMIT FEE = $0.70 PER SQUARE FOOT (SF) UNDER BEAM* (*Includes all square footage under beam, finished/unfinished, conditioned/unconditioned, interior/exterior)”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building, zoning-compliance, septic, and planning permit process.

    • Planning FAQ directs applicants to obtain a septic map/permit from Tennessee Environment, obtain a Certificate of Zoning Compliance from Planning & Engineering, and then take documentation to Building Codes.
    • Exceptions are STEP systems or city sewer.
    • Applications require documentation at submission and payment before review.
    “In-person Applications: All required information and documentation must be provided at the time of submission. Payment is due when the application is accepted”

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • 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 — State-administered subsurface sewage disposal permitting applicable in Rutherford County.
      “SSDS Construction Permit Permitting for: Installation of subsurface sewage disposal (septic) system on your property Repair to an existing faulty system”
    • State (with conditions) — Subsurface sewage disposal system permitting applicable to Rutherford County.
      “Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) Permits”
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Statewide subsurface sewage disposal system permitting and assistance, with specified contract counties providing ground water protection services in their own areas.
      “NOTE: Some counties provide ground water protection services for their own areas. The online application form is not to be submitted for services requested in the following metropolitan or contact counties: Blount County, Davidson County/Nashville, Hamilton County, Jefferson County, Knox County, Madison County, Sevier County, Shelby County, Williamson County.”
  • Septic permitRequired

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

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

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

    “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system. This permit ensures that the septic system design complies with state regulations and safeguards your health by properly managing wastewater.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation or repair of a subsurface sewage disposal system in Rutherford County.
      “SSDS Construction Permit Permitting for: Installation of subsurface sewage disposal (septic) system on your property Repair to an existing faulty system”
    • Required — Installation of a subsurface sewage disposal system in Rutherford County.
      “A TDEC septic permit will be REQUIRED if you are installing a new septic system.”
  • 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.”
  • 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 Rutherford County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning within the incorporated City of Eagleville.

    • The ordinance applies to incorporated Eagleville.
    • The ordinance establishes residential, commercial, industrial, and floodplain districts.
    “This Ordinance shall apply to all areas within the incorporated area of Eagleville, Tennessee.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning within the City of La Vergne.
      “This Ordinance applies to all land, lots, buildings, structures, uses, improvements, and development or redevelopment activity located within the City of La Vergne (referred to as “The City” throughout this ordinance) planning areas as determined by the adopted La Vergne 2040 Comprehensive Land Use Plan.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Manufactured homes — Manufactured or mobile-home occupancy in Rutherford County.
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling units in Rutherford County.
  • Off-grid sanitation — Off-grid sanitation outside the specific mobile-home-community provisions reviewed.
  • Well permit — Private-well permitting in Rutherford County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Rutherford 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 Rutherford County, Tennessee

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

Rutherford County scores 53/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: about 200,627 people within a 30-minute drive and more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Rutherford County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Division of Water Resources. 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 Rutherford County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Rutherford County is limited to specific cases: Living, sleeping, or housekeeping in one recreational vehicle or camping trailer on a residential lot outside an approved campground. Bona fide visiting relatives or invited guests are limited to 14 days in any calendar year. After fire or natural disaster, a temporary-use permit may last six months, with one additional six-month period possible; approved water, sewer, and electric facilities and IBC separation standards are required, and use ends upon primary-dwelling occupancy approval. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Rutherford County, Tennessee?

Land in Rutherford County runs about $10,250 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Rutherford County?

Rutherford County gets about 55" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.6% of years.

How remote is Rutherford County?

A representative private-land location has about 200,627 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,037,843 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 Rutherford compares in Tennessee

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