Bolthole Index

Bastrop County, Texas

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Bastrop County, Texas

57Index Score / 100
#110 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Bastrop County, Texas does not issue building permits or certificates of occupancy, but requires development permits and applies limited residential building-code standards1234. General county zoning is absent except in a small northwest airport-zoning area; incorporated cities have separate zoning rules56. Bastrop County Development Services handles septic permits for unincorporated land; Austin Water regulates septic within Austin’s full jurisdiction78.

At a glance

Building permit
Not issued by the county; a separate development permit is required, and limited residential code standards apply to new homes and duplexes134
Zoning
No general county zoning on unincorporated land, except the northwest airport area; municipal zoning applies inside city limits96
Septic permits
Bastrop County Development Services for unincorporated land; $600 for a standard residential OSSF permit; Austin Water within Austin’s full jurisdiction7108
Development permit fee
$225 for a single-family home outside the floodplain, $300 inside it; $50 for a driveway ($75 if built without one first)10
RV / tiny home living
A development permit is required to place one; a private RV park or lodging development of more than 2 units needs Commissioners Court approval311
Owner-builder
Yes: since the county issues no building permit, there is no permit to be exempt from, though state trade licensing for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work can still apply12
Minimum lot size for septic
1/2 acre with public water, 1 full acre without it, for a single-family lot on individual OSSF13
Well permit
Required for non-exempt wells in the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District portion of the county14

Who to call

Also useful

Bastrop County Development Services

Development permits, floodplain permits, driveway and right-of-way permits, OSSF (septic) permits, and planning & platting for unincorporated Bastrop County; does not issue building permits or certificates of occupancy

(512) 581-7176

development.services@co.bastrop.tx.us

211 Jackson Street, Bastrop, Texas 78602

Online permits →

Well permits

Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District

Operating permits for non-exempt water wells in the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District portion of Bastrop County

512-360-5088

317 E. Hempstead St., Giddings, TX 78942

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Bastrop 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 Bastrop County, Texas?

Bastrop County does not issue building permits or certificates of occupancy in unincorporated areas, but requires a development permit before building or placing a structure, subject to limited exemptions123. County residential code standards cover new single-family homes, duplexes and additions increasing an existing home’s square footage or value by more than 50%; the county has no building codes for other uses4. The builder chooses substantial conformity with the 2006 International Residential Code or the IRC version applicable in the City of Bastrop4. For covered new construction, the builder hires an authorized inspector for foundation, framing and mechanical systems, and completion inspections; Bastrop County does not conduct those inspections or require copies of the reports15. Elgin requires city building permits for construction and listed alterations inside city limits; septic approval is separate, and Elgin’s septic permitting authority remains unconfirmed—ask Bastrop County Development Services161718. Austin, mainly in Travis County but reaching into Bastrop County, issues building permits within its zoning jurisdiction; Austin Water regulates septic within Austin’s full jurisdiction198.

Who handles development and septic permits in Bastrop County?

Bastrop County Development Services handles development, floodplain, driveway and OSSF (septic) applications for unincorporated land320217. Reach the office at 211 Jackson Street, Bastrop, Texas 78602, (512) 581-7176 or development.services@co.bastrop.tx.us18. Development applications require proof of ownership, a dimensioned site plan and a survey or plat; additional information may be requested22. A single-family development permit costs $225, or $300 with floodplain involvement10. Development Services will not issue a development permit for non-compliant property unless the department head approves a health or public-safety exception22. Non-exempt wells in the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District portion of Bastrop County require district approval; reach the district at 512-360-50881423.

Does Bastrop County have zoning?

Bastrop County has no general zoning authority on unincorporated land, except for a small northwest airport-zoning area near Austin Executive Airport5. Elgin administers zoning inside city limits; septic approval remains separate, with the local permitting authority unconfirmed—ask Bastrop County Development Services241718. Austin, a city mainly in Travis County that reaches into Bastrop County, administers zoning inside its city limits; Austin Water handles septic within Austin’s full jurisdiction258. Outside the airport area, Bastrop County sets no zoning-based minimum dwelling size, lot-coverage limit or building-height limit on unincorporated land262728. County subdivision, driveway, floodplain, septic and RV-park requirements still apply independently of general zoning, and recorded deed restrictions, covenants and easements can limit a parcel’s use29. Land divisions in unincorporated areas are regulated; cities handle subdivision regulation inside their limits, while extraterritorial-jurisdiction authority depends on local agreements30.

How do septic permits work in Bastrop County?

Bastrop County acts as TCEQ's authorized agent for on-site sewage facilities and has adopted TCEQ's rules under Title 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 285, plus its own additional requirements7. With few exceptions, a permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend or repair an OSSF, regardless of how many acres the property has, and a standard residential permit costs $6003110. Specified emergency repairs — replacing tank lids, inlet and outlet devices, or fixing solid lines — need no septic permit but must be reported to Development Services within 72 hours after work begins32. Once permitted, a system has 1 year to be installed, inspected and finally approved under the Permit to Construct, after which the License to Operate lasts for the life of the system unless usage changes significantly33. Lot size matters directly here: a platted or unplatted lot using an individual OSSF must be at least 1/2 acre if served by public water, or 1 acre if not, and lots under 1/2 acre need a Registered Sanitarian or Professional Engineer to design the system regardless of type13. USDA rates only 19% of Bastrop County’s soils “not limited” for conventional drain fields; that calls for a site evaluation and potentially an engineered system, rather than ruling out septic34.

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

Placing an RV, manufactured home or tiny home in unincorporated Bastrop County requires a development permit3. We could not confirm a general rule allowing temporary occupancy of a single RV on private land; ask Bastrop County Development Services before relying on an RV as housing18. A private RV park or lodging development designed for more than 2 RVs, lodging units or tiny houses requires a pre-application meeting, an Infrastructure Development Plan and Commissioners Court approval before construction; units must be at least 20 feet apart1135. Within a covered development, a tiny house under 400 square feet is treated as an RV on wheels or a lodging unit when secured to a foundation35. Bastrop County has no separate short-term rental permitting process, but sleeping accommodations rented for less than 30 consecutive days remain subject to applicable septic, driveway, addressing and other approvals, plus Hotel Occupancy Tax filing36. Rentals inside city limits or city extraterritorial jurisdictions also face city regulations and application requirements36.

How do you build a home in Bastrop County, step by step?

  1. Confirm city limits, any extraterritorial jurisdiction and the northwest airport-zoning area; ask Bastrop County Development Services who reviews a proposed land division630.
  2. Check available water and wastewater: regulated subdivisions may require utility connections, but Bastrop County has no universal connection requirement37.
  3. Submit proof of ownership, a dimensioned site plan and a survey or plat with the development application; submit the OSSF application concurrently when public wastewater is unavailable22.
  4. For floodplain construction, obtain a surveyor’s certification before applying20.
  5. Evaluate septic soils and lot size; lots under 1/2 acre require a Registered Sanitarian or Professional Engineer to design the system13.
  6. For covered residential construction, choose an allowed IRC version, hire an eligible inspector and retain the inspection reports38.
  7. Obtain a driveway permit before construction or modification on a county-maintained or WCID#2 road; TxDOT handles state-highway access, and routine driveway maintenance needs no county permit2139.
  8. Ask Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District about a non-exempt well within its territory14.

What should you check before buying land in Bastrop County?

Before buying Bastrop County land, confirm septic feasibility and water supply: individual OSSF lots generally need at least 1/2 acre with public water or 1 acre without it, and USDA rates only 19% of county soils “not limited” for conventional drain fields; a site evaluation may point to an engineered system1334. Floodplain status affects the development-permit class and fee; residential additions, remodels or repairs exceeding 50% of existing value trigger elevation requirements of 2 feet above base flood elevation2010. Confirm whether Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District covers the parcel and whether the intended well use is exempt14. Bastrop County receives about 37.6 inches of annual precipitation but experiences severe drought in 20.5% of years, so rainfall alone does not settle water reliability4041. The effective property tax rate is about 1.5%, with a median annual bill around $4,077; these county figures are a starting point for budgeting4243.

Watch-outs

  • Bastrop County’s lack of building permits does not remove development-permit requirements for placing an RV or tiny home on unincorporated land13.
  • Covered residential construction in unincorporated Bastrop County requires builder-arranged inspections, not county inspections; remodeling inspections depend on the scope of work15.
  • Bastrop County short-term rentals require county Hotel Occupancy Tax filing, and rentals inside city limits or an extraterritorial jurisdiction also face city requirements36.
  • We could not confirm approval for composting or incinerating toilets or general accessory-dwelling occupancy in unincorporated Bastrop County; ask Development Services before planning around either18.

Sources

  1. Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  2. Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  3. Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  4. Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  5. Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  6. Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  7. On-Site Sewage Facilities | Environmental & Sanitation | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  8. Austin: On-Site Sewage Facilities (Bastrop County), quoted and re-checked
  9. Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  10. 2025.06.20 Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  11. Bastrop County Infrastructure Requirements for Lodging & RV Park Developments, quoted and re-checked
  12. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  13. On-Site Sewage Facilities | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  14. Well Aware: Permits, Pumps, and Playing by the Rules, quoted and re-checked
  15. bastropcounty.gov, quoted and re-checked
  16. Elgin: Building Division (Bastrop County), quoted and re-checked
  17. Elgin: Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System (Bastrop County), quoted and re-checked
  18. Bastrop County Development Services (bastropcounty.gov)
  19. Austin: Homeowner's Permit (Bastrop County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Floodplain Management, quoted and re-checked
  21. Driveway & Culvert | Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  22. Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  23. Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District (lostpineswater.org)
  24. Elgin: Planning & Development (Bastrop County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Austin: Zoning Resources & Site Regulations (Bastrop County), quoted and re-checked
  26. Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  27. Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  28. Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  29. Development Services No Zoning Letter, quoted and re-checked
  30. Land Divisions & ROW/Easement Vacations, quoted and re-checked
  31. On-Site Sewage Facilities | Environmental & Sanitation | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  32. On-Site Sewage Facilities | Environmental & Sanitation | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  33. On-Site Sewage Facilities | Environmental & Sanitation | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  34. 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
  35. Bastrop County Infrastructure Requirements for Lodging & RV Park Developments, quoted and re-checked
  36. So You’ve Decided to Rent Your Bastrop County Property to Visitors, quoted and re-checked
  37. Subdivision Regulations for Bastrop County – Revised 04/24/2017, quoted and re-checked
  38. Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  39. Driveway & Culvert | Development Services | Bastrop County, quoted and re-checked
  40. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleBastrop CountyLee CountyCaldwell CountyTravis CountyFayette CountyWilliamson CountyHays County
Building permitNot requiredRequiredRequiredLimitedLimitedLimitedLimited
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Development ServicesCounty Development ServicesCounty SanitationCounty TNRCounty Health Dept.County Engineer's OfficeCounty Development Services

County locator

Bastrop County in Texas

57
County map
Bastrop County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Bastrop County scores

Seclusion25100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency53100% ev.
Admin Boringness92100% ev.
Durability51100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost66100% 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 →

$361kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$6,225Land / acre
37.6"Annual rain
20.5% of yrsSevere drought
38.2 / yr (+27.8)Mid-century 100°F days
25.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.27" (+5.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.43×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,967Home insurance / yr
1.9% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
38,194People within 30 min
9,099,833People within 2 hr
53,468Radius comparison (15 mi)
124.7People / sq mi
2.1%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
19%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
103,311 acWorkable land screen
36.8%Wooded land
17.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
68.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Bastrop 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: Bastrop · Smithville

Answers from the rulebook for Bastrop County

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

Bastrop County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    County development permits for building or placing structures in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • A development permit is required before building or placing a structure, including manufactured homes, recreational vehicles, and tiny homes.
    • Class A applies outside the mapped 100-year floodplain; Conditional Class A applies outside the mapped 100-year floodplain but on property within the 100-year floodplain; Class B applies to development partially or wholly within the mapped 100-year floodplain.
    • County permitting requirements are subject to change without notice.
    • The county page states that interior building renovations on existing footprints do not require a permit.
    • A development permit is not required for accessory buildings 25 square feet or less unless placed on a foundation or constructed within the floodplain.

    accessory-building area threshold: <= 25 square feet (Permit not required unless the accessory building is placed on a foundation or constructed within the floodplain.) · development permit expiration: 3 years (Construction must be completed within three years after permit issuance.) · permit extension: 180 days (One-time extension may be granted by the department head if requested 30 days before expiration; extensions are not granted for OSSF permits.)

    “A development permit is required for all development in the unincorporated areas of Bastrop County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — County-issued building permits for development in unincorporated Bastrop County.
      “Bastrop County does not issue building permits or Certificates of Occupancy.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Bastrop 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.

    • This claim concerns Bastrop County building permits; separate development, floodplain, OSSF, driveway, and right-of-way permits may apply.
    • Incorporated municipalities are outside this claim's scope.
    “Bastrop County does not issue building permits or Certificates of Occupancy.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    New single-family houses and duplexes in unincorporated Bastrop County, and additions to existing single-family houses or duplexes when the addition increases the building’s square footage or value by more than 50%.

    • Bastrop County does not issue building permits or Certificates of Occupancy.
    • The county building code applies only to residential single-family homes and duplexes; there are no Bastrop County building codes for other uses.
    • Bastrop County Commissioners Court passed a resolution on September 14, 2009 adopting provisions of HB 2833.
    • Construction must substantially conform to either the International Residential Code published as of May 1, 2008, identified by the county as the 2006 International Residential Code, or the International Residential Code applicable in the City of Bastrop; the builder chooses which code to use.
    • The requirements apply to new single-family or duplex construction and qualifying additions in unincorporated areas.
    • Three inspections are required: foundation before concrete placement; framing and mechanical systems before drywall or other interior wall covering; and completion of construction. Remodeling inspections are performed as necessary based on project scope.
    • The county is not involved in inspections. The builder must contract with an authorized inspector, comply with the requirements, perform the inspections, and maintain inspection reports; reports need not be provided to Bastrop County.
    • The county page states that all development requirements are subject to change without notice and recommends contacting Development Services before submitting an application.
    • Municipal building codes may apply within incorporated municipalities or applicable extraterritorial jurisdictions.

    county resolution adopting HB 2833 provisions: 2009-09-14 · IRC alternative 1 publication date: 2008-05-01 (County page identifies this as the 2006 International Residential Code) · qualifying addition threshold: > 50 percent (Applies when the addition increases existing residential building square footage or value by more than 50%)

    “Bastrop County has limited statutory authority regarding building codes. Bastrop County Building Code only applies to the construction of residential single-family homes and duplexes. There are no Bastrop County Building Codes for any other uses. [...] Bastrop County Commissioners Court passed a resolution on September 14, 2009 adopting provisions of HB 2833. This action restored residential building code requirements for certain structures that are built in the unincorporated areas of Bastrop County.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — New single-family houses or duplexes in unincorporated Bastrop County, and additions to existing single-family houses or duplexes when the addition increases square footage or value by more than 50%.
      “Bastrop County has limited statutory authority regarding building codes. Bastrop County Building Code only applies to the construction of residential single-family homes and duplexes. There are no Bastrop County Building Codes for any other uses. [...] These building code requirements apply in the unincorporated areas of Bastrop County for the construction of a new single-family house or duplex or the construction of an addition to an existing single-family house or duplex (if the addition will increase the square footage or the value of the existing residential building by more than 50%).”
    • Partial — New single-family houses and duplexes, and qualifying additions to existing single-family houses or duplexes, in unincorporated Bastrop County.
      “Bastrop County Building Code only applies to the construction of residential single-family homes and duplexes. There are no Bastrop County Building Codes for any other uses.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    New single-family homes, duplexes, and qualifying additions in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • Requirements apply to a new single-family house or duplex, or an addition increasing the existing residential building's square footage or value by more than 50%.
    • Remodeling inspections for an existing residence are performed as necessary based on the scope of work.
    • The County is not involved in the inspection process.
    • The builder must contract with an authorized inspector and maintain inspection reports; copies need not be provided to Bastrop County.

    required inspection stages: 3 stages (Foundation before concrete placement; framing and mechanical systems before drywall or other interior wall covering; and completion of construction.)

    “There are three required inspections.”
  • Certificate of occupancyNot required

    Certificates of occupancy issued by Bastrop County for development in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • This claim concerns certificates issued by Bastrop County; another entity may request documentation of compliance with applicable building-code requirements.
    “No, Bastrop County does not issue building permits or Certificates of Occupancy.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    General county zoning in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • This conclusion is limited to general zoning authority in unincorporated areas.
    • A small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning under the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) and the cited Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near Austin Executive Airport.
    • Development, floodplain, septic, subdivision, and other county requirements may still apply.
    “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. Under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) a small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning per an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near the Austin Executive Airport.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Absent — General county zoning authority over land in the unincorporated areas of Bastrop County.
      “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. Under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) a small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning per an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near the Austin Executive Airport.”
    • Absent (with conditions) — General land-use and zoning authority in the unincorporated areas of Bastrop County.
      “The County of Bastrop in Texas does not have general land use/zoning authority regarding use of land located in the unincorporated areas of the county. [...] However, a small area in the northwest part of Bastrop County is subject to airport zoning per an “Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property” near the Austin Executive Airport under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code).”
    • Absent (with conditions) — General land-use and zoning authority over land in the unincorporated areas of Bastrop County.
      “The County of Bastrop in Texas does not have general land use/zoning authority regarding use of land located in the unincorporated areas of the county.”
    • Absent (with conditions) — General land-use zoning in the unincorporated areas of Bastrop County.
      “The County of Bastrop in Texas does not have general land use/zoning authority regarding use of land located in the unincorporated areas of the county. [...] However, a small area in the northwest part of Bastrop County is subject to airport zoning per an “Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property” near the Austin Executive Airport under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code).”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning conditions across Bastrop County, aggregated from unincorporated county areas, the northwest airport-zoning area, and incorporated municipalities; Bastrop County does not administer each municipal ordinance.

    • Unincorporated areas generally lack county zoning authority.
    • A small northwest area is subject to airport zoning near Austin Executive Airport under Chapter 241 of the Texas Local Government Code.
    • Zoning exists inside the incorporated limits of the Cities of Bastrop, Elgin, and Smithville.
    • Deed restrictions, subdivision covenants, easements, subdivision rules, floodplain rules, OSSF rules, and other non-zoning regulations may still apply.
    “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. [...] There is zoning inside the incorporated limits of the Cities”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Bastrop County, including unincorporated areas, the northwest airport-zoning area, and incorporated Cities of Bastrop, Elgin, and Smithville; the countywide conclusion aggregates rules administered by the county, airport-zoning authority, and municipalities.
      “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. Under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) a small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning per an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near the Austin Executive Airport. There is zoning inside the incorporated limits of the Cities of Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Local zoning across Bastrop County: no general county zoning in unincorporated areas, airport zoning in a small northwest area near Austin Executive Airport, and zoning inside incorporated limits of the Cities of Bastrop, Elgin, and Smithville.
      “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. Under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) a small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning per an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near the Austin Executive Airport. There is zoning inside the incorporated limits of the Cities of Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — County aggregate describing zoning within incorporated municipalities in Bastrop County; this claim does not state that Bastrop County administers municipal zoning ordinances.
      “There is zoning inside the incorporated limits of the Cities of Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Bastrop County: no general county zoning in unincorporated areas, airport zoning in a small northwest area, and municipal zoning inside the incorporated limits of Bastrop, Elgin, and Smithville.
      “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. Under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) a small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning per an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near the Austin Executive Airport. There is zoning inside the incorporated limits of the Cities of Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville.”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    General zoning districts and special airport-zoning controls in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • Bastrop County does not have general land-use or zoning authority in unincorporated areas.
    • A small area in the northwest part of Bastrop County is subject to airport zoning near Austin Executive Airport.
    • The airport zoning is under an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property pursuant to Chapter 241 of the Texas Local Government Code.
    • Property owners or agents must research deeds, subdivision covenants, easements, and other public records that may restrict land use.
    • County subdivision, driveway, floodplain, OSSF, manufactured-home-community, lodging, RV-park, and addressing regulations may still require permits or other actions; these are not general zoning districts.
    “However, a small area in the northwest part of Bastrop County is subject to airport zoning”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    General zoning-based minimum dwelling size requirements in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in unincorporated areas.
    • A small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning near Austin Executive Airport; the specific airport-zoning standards were not extracted.
    • Incorporated cities, including Bastrop, Elgin, and Smithville, may apply their own zoning rules.
    “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. Under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) a small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning per an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near the Austin Executive Airport.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Platted or unplatted subdivisions of single-family dwellings using individual OSSFs in Bastrop County.

    • Lots served by public water and using individual OSSFs must be at least 1/2 acre.
    • Lots not served by a public water system and using individual OSSFs must be at least one acre.
    • A lot must be large enough to meet required septic setbacks based on system size.
    • For small lots less than 1/2 acre, the system must be designed by a Registered Sanitarian or Professional Engineer, regardless of system type.

    minimum lot size with public water and individual OSSF: >= 0.5 acre · minimum lot size without public water and with individual OSSF: >= 1 acre

    “Platted or unplatted subdivisions of single family dwellings served by a public water supply and using individual OSSFs for sewage disposal, shall have lots of at least 1/2 acre. Platted or unplatted subdivisions not served by a public water system and using individual OSSFs, shall have lots of at least one acre.”
  • Lot coverageNone

    General zoning-based lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in unincorporated areas.
    • A small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning near Austin Executive Airport; the specific airport-zoning standards were not extracted.
    • Other development controls, including drainage and floodplain requirements, may affect impervious cover without being zoning-based.
    “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. Under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) a small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning per an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near the Austin Executive Airport.”
  • Building heightNone

    General zoning-based building-height limits in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in unincorporated areas.
    • A small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning near Austin Executive Airport; the specific airport-zoning standards were not extracted.
    • Building-code standards may apply to certain residential construction, but no county zoning-based height limit was established.
    “No, Bastrop County does not have general zoning authority in the unincorporated areas. Under the provisions of the Airport Zoning Act (Chapter 241, Texas Local Government Code) a small area in the northwest part of the county is subject to airport zoning per an Order Regulating and Restricting Use of Property near the Austin Executive Airport.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Occupancy of recreational vehicles for dwelling or sleeping purposes in a privately owned and operated recreational vehicle park or combined lodging/RV development outside the city limits of a municipality in Bastrop County.

    • The development must be designed to accommodate more than two recreational vehicles, lodging units, tiny houses, or a combination of them.
    • A Bastrop County Infrastructure Development Plan and development application are required before construction.
    • A pre-application meeting with Bastrop County Development Services is required.
    • Final approval or disapproval is by the Bastrop County Commissioners Court; construction may not begin before approval.
    • Specific permitting requirements may be subject to interlocal agreements involving incorporated cities and their extraterritorial jurisdictions.
    • The cited regulations were adopted August 24, 2020 and revised September 12, 2022.

    minimum recreational vehicles for RV park definition: > 2 vehicles; development must accommodate more than this number · minimum separation between each lodging unit or recreational vehicle: >= 20 feet (with slide-outs extended) · RV space hardened area: 12 x 40 feet (compacted crushed road base material)

    “occupied or intended to be occupied for dwelling or sleeping purposes for any length of time.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny houses under 400 square feet in Bastrop County lodging or recreational vehicle park developments outside municipal city limits.

    • A tiny house is defined as any residential structure under 400 square feet, whether on wheels or secured to a foundation.
    • A tiny house on wheels is treated as a recreational vehicle; a tiny house secured to a foundation is treated as a lodging development unit.
    • The development must accommodate more than two lodging units, recreational vehicles, tiny houses, or a combination.
    • A development permit is required before placing a tiny home in the unincorporated county.
    • A pre-application meeting, Infrastructure Development Plan, county development application, and Commissioners Court approval are required before construction.
    • The cited RV/lodging regulations were adopted August 24, 2020 and revised September 12, 2022.

    maximum tiny-house floor area: < 400 square feet · minimum separation between each lodging unit or recreational vehicle: >= 20 feet (with slide-outs extended)

    “Any residential structure under 400 square feet, whether on wheels or secured to a foundation.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    On-site sewage facilities in Bastrop County.

    • Bastrop County acts as the authorized agent for TCEQ.
    • The County has adopted TCEQ rules from Title 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 285 and additional county rules.
    “Bastrop County is the "authorized" agent for the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Bastrop County has adopted the TCEQ rules from Title 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 285.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    OSSF construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair in Bastrop County.

    • A permit is required with few exceptions.
    • All septic installation and modifications require a permit regardless of acreage.
    • All structures to be used as a residence must obtain an OSSF permit.
    • Emergency repairs are excepted as described in the separate emergency-repair claim.
    • A single-family-residence owner may self-install only after the permitting process is followed and a Permit to Construct is issued.
    • The Permit to Construct lasts one year for installation, inspection, and final approval.

    Permit to Construct term: 1 year (The License to Operate lasts for the life of the system until modification or significant change in water usage.)

    “All septic installation/modifications require a permit, regardless of acreage. [...] With few exceptions, a permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an On-site Sewage Facility (OSSF).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Permitted OSSF systems in Bastrop County.

    • The system must be installed, inspected, and receive final approval during the one-year Permit to Construct term.
    • The county page also states that the License to Operate lasts for the life of the system until modification or significant change in water usage.

    Permit to Construct term for installation, inspection, and final approval: 1 year

    “The term of the Permit to Construct is one year. This means one year is given to have the system installed, inspected and receive final approval.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Water wells in the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District portion of Bastrop County.

    • Operating permits are required for all non-exempt wells.
    • Specific exemption criteria include small-scale domestic or livestock use.
    • Drillers and pump installers must confirm that an operating permit has been issued before a non-exempt well is placed into service.
    • Texas state law assigns groundwater regulation to local or regional groundwater conservation districts rather than a state agency.
    “LPGCD requires operating permits for all non-exempt wells, unless they meet specific exemption criteria such as small-scale domestic or livestock use. Drillers and pump installers are responsible for confirming that an operating permit has been issued before any non-exempt well is placed into service.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Structures in subdivisions governed by the Bastrop County Subdivision Regulations.

    • The Bastrop County Commissioners Court may require connection of structures to water and/or wastewater systems.
    • The rule is discretionary and does not establish a universal countywide connection requirement.
    • The cited regulations are identified as revised 04/24/2017; that revision date is not treated as an effective date.
    “The Commissioners Court may require the connection of structures to water and/or waste water systems.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and platting of property in Bastrop County’s unincorporated areas, including property in an incorporated city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction only where the County has authority through a specific agreement with that city or town.

    • The owner of a tract outside municipal limits must prepare a subdivision plat when dividing it into two or more parts to lay out a subdivision, lots, or public-use streets, alleys, squares, parks, or other parts.
    • No person may create a subdivision in Bastrop County by sale, lease, or otherwise without complying with the regulations unless the Commissioners Court acknowledges that the division is exempted from platting as an Exempted Subdivision.
    • All subdivision plats must conform to the regulations, which govern subdivision planning, platting, construction, and maintenance except as provided in the regulations.
    • A plat need not include remainder property when smaller tracts are subdivided out if the remainder is more than 10 acres, only the subdivided lots under 10 acres are included, and the remainder has access to a public road at least 60 feet wide.
    • Short-form subdivision procedures may be used for subdivisions containing no more than four lots only if the stated conditions are met, including adequate street access, surveyed boundaries, adequate drainage arrangements, required utilities or arrangements for them, tax certificates, and County approval.
    • Within incorporated city limits, the municipality is responsible for subdivision regulation. Authority in an extraterritorial jurisdiction is prescribed by local agreement.

    remainder property threshold for partial plat inclusion: > 10 acres (The subdivided lots under 10 acres must still be included on the plat.) · minimum public-road width for qualifying remainder: >= 60 feet · short-form subdivision maximum lots: <= 4 lots (The short-form procedure also requires compliance with the listed street, survey, drainage, utility, tax-certificate, and approval conditions.) · preliminary plan fee without floodplain: $400 + $50/lot for fewer than 5 lots; $500 + $250/lot for 5-50 lots; $500 + $175/lot for 51-175 lots; $500 + $150/lot for 176-300 lots; $500 + $100/lot for more than 300 lots USD · preliminary plan fee with floodplain: $600 + $50/lot for fewer than 5 lots; $800 + $250/lot for 5-50 lots; $800 + $175/lot for 51-175 lots; $800 + $150/lot for 176-300 lots; $800 + $100/lot for more than 300 lots USD · subdivision construction plan review fee: $30/lot + $1/linear foot of road USD

    “These Regulations constitute the rules governing subdivision and platting of property within the unincorporated areas of the County.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction of a driveway or modification of an existing driveway on a Bastrop County-maintained roadway, a roadway maintained by WCID#2, or a county easement/right-of-way along a county-maintained road in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • A Bastrop County driveway permit is required before construction or modification.
    • If the driveway is on a state highway, TxDOT issues the driveway permit instead; Bastrop County may require a copy before providing other services.
    • Bastrop County does not issue driveway permits on privately maintained roads or other roads not maintained by the County, except WCID#2.
    • No construction work may be performed in the County right-of-way until the permit has been issued and posted on site.
    • The applicant must submit the required application and fee; payment may be by check, money order, or credit card with a 3% processing fee, and cash is not accepted.
    • The permit expires after twelve months from issuance or upon project completion, whichever occurs first.
    • The driveway must satisfy applicable design, location, spacing, drainage, material, and safety requirements; the County may require a different location if the proposed location presents safety concerns.
    • Routine maintenance of existing driveways and driveway culverts does not require a permit.

    driveway permit fee: 50 USD (Fee schedule adopted 06/20/2025.) · driveway constructed without a permit fee: 75 USD (Fee schedule adopted 06/20/2025.) · residential driveway throat width: 12-24 feet · residential driveway turn radius on curbed street: 5-15 feet · residential driveway turn radius on uncurbed street: 10-15 feet · minimum culvert diameter: >= 15 inches (Arched design culverts are acceptable to reduce culvert height.)

    “A Bastrop County Driveway Permit is required to construct a driveway or to modify an existing driveway on a county-maintained roadway and a roadway maintained by WCID#2.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — Routine maintenance of existing driveways and driveway culverts, and driveways on privately maintained roads or roads not maintained by Bastrop County other than WCID#2, for purposes of Bastrop County driveway permitting.
      “Routine maintenance of existing driveways and driveway culverts does not require a permit from the County.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in unincorporated Bastrop County, including development on property partially or wholly within the mapped 100-year floodplain.

    • A development permit is required for all development in unincorporated areas, including manufactured homes, recreational vehicles, and tiny homes.
    • Class A permits are for development outside the mapped 100-year floodplain.
    • Conditional Class A permits are for development outside the mapped 100-year floodplain but on property within the 100-year floodplain.
    • Class B permits are for development on property that lies partially or wholly within the mapped 100-year floodplain.
    • Before applying for development within the floodplain, a surveyor must certify that proposed construction will meet the Flood Damage Prevention Order.
    • If additions, remodels, or repairs exceed 50% of the existing value, residential structures must be elevated two feet above base flood elevation; non-residential structures must be elevated or flood-proofed two feet above base flood elevation.
    • All development must adhere to federal floodplain regulations under CFR 44.

    substantial improvement threshold: > 50 percent of existing value (residential structures must be elevated two feet above base flood elevation; non-residential structures must be elevated or flood-proofed two feet above base flood elevation) · residential elevation requirement: 2 feet above base flood elevation (when addition, remodel, or repairs exceed 50% of existing value) · maximum penalty: 500 USD per day of offense (each day constitutes a separate offense)

    “A development permit is required for all development in the unincorporated areas of Bastrop County.”
  • Short-term rentalsAllowed (with conditions)

    Short-term rental lodging in Bastrop County, including lodging outside city limits and in city extraterritorial jurisdictions.

    • Bastrop County does not have an STR permitting process.
    • Lodging may still require septic, driveway approval, 911 addressing, or other permits and applications.
    • Inside a city limit or city ETJ, the property is subject to city regulations; properties outside city limits but inside an ETJ are subject to the city's application process and Hotel Occupancy Tax.
    • A short-term rental is sleeping accommodation rented for less than 30 consecutive days.
    • Hotel Occupancy Tax must be filed with Bastrop County; county tax rates vary by location.

    short-term rental duration: < 30 consecutive days · county hotel occupancy tax outside city limit and ETJ: 7 percent (state tax also applies at 6%) · county hotel occupancy tax inside city limit or ETJ: 0.75 percent (state tax and city tax also apply)

    “Bastrop County does not have an STR permitting process, but lodging may be subject to other permits and applications”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Bastrop County Development Services permits and related development applications.

    • The fee schedule is identified as adopted 06/20/2025.
    • A check or money order payable to Bastrop County for the appropriate fee(s) must accompany the completed application.
    • Fees are non-refundable.
    • Fees vary by permit type, floodplain status, project size, and unit, slot, or RV-slip count.

    single-family development permit: 225 USD · single-family development permit with floodplain: 300 USD · driveway permit: 50 USD · driveway constructed without a permit: 75 USD · commercial base fee: 500 USD (plus building and paving/parking square-footage charges; maximum $25,000) · standard residential OSSF permit: 600 USD

    “Single Family $225 Single Family (with Floodplain) $300 Driveway $50 Driveway constructed without a permit $75”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    External development and related development permits in unincorporated Bastrop County.

    • Only external development requires a permit; interior building renovations on existing footprints do not require a permit.
    • A development permit is not required for accessory buildings 25 square feet or less unless placed on a foundation or constructed within the floodplain.
    • At minimum, applications require proof of ownership, a dimensioned site plan, and a copy of a survey or plat; additional information may be requested.
    • Permits will not be issued for non-compliant property unless there is a health or public safety reason approved by the department head.
    • When public wastewater is unavailable, Development and OSSF permit applications are submitted concurrently.
    • Lodging and recreational vehicle park developments require pre-development meetings.

    accessory-building exemption threshold: <= 25 square feet (does not apply if placed on a foundation or constructed within the floodplain)

    “Only external development requires a permit. Interior building renovations on existing footprints do not require a permit.”

Texas rules that apply here

  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid wastewater sanitation through an OSSF in Texas.

    • An OSSF generally requires a permit and approved plan before construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, or operation.
    • A qualifying single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres may use the 10-acre permitting exemption only if every stated site-evaluation, setback, nuisance, groundwater, on-site disposal, and single-dwelling condition is met.
    • Local permitting authorities may impose requirements more stringent than state minimums.
    • Emergency repairs are exempt from permitting only for the listed repair types and must be reported in writing within 72 hours after repairs begin.

    10-acre exemption tract size: >= 10 acres (all TCEQ conditions must be satisfied) · 10-acre exemption OSSF setback: >= 100 feet from property line (all parts of the OSSF)

    “An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Composting toilets used as on-site sewage facility treatment systems in Texas.
      “Composting toilets will be approved by the executive director provided the system has been tested and certified under NSF International Standard 41 (1999) or under any other standards approved by the executive director.”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

    Texas counties adopting zoning regulations for specified unincorporated or otherwise specially defined areas.

    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    • Other Chapter 231 subchapters address special areas including the Amistad Recreation Area in Val Verde County, military zones, certain lakes, the El Paso Mission Trail Historical Area, Lake Somerville, and Falcon Lake in Zapata County.
    • The cited statute was enacted effective September 1, 1987; the Falcon Lake subchapter was added effective June 15, 2007, and amended effective September 1, 2009.

    Padre Island distance from publicly owned park or recreational development: <= 2 miles (Area must be outside a municipality and in Cameron or Willacy County.) · Padre Island distance from beach, wharf, or bathhouse: <= 2 miles (The beach, wharf, or bathhouse must be used by at least 500 persons annually.)

    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — County zoning authority over unincorporated land in Texas, where a specific statutory grant applies.
      “As you suggest, a county has very limited and specific zoning authority, and none that may be used to regulate construction or operation of the proposed facility.”
  • county building authorityLimited

    Texas counties adopting and enforcing fire-code building permits for specified buildings in unincorporated areas and applying residential building-code standards in certain counties.

    • Under Section 233.061, the county must have a population over 250,000 or be adjacent to a county with a population over 250,000.
    • Under Section 233.062, the fire code applies only to commercial establishments, public buildings, and multifamily residential dwellings consisting of four or more units constructed in an unincorporated area.
    • The fire code does not apply to an industrial facility having a fire brigade that conforms to Occupational Health and Safety Administration requirements.
    • A covered applicant must submit a plan and a commissioners-court-set application fee; the county must issue or deny the permit within 30 days, and failure to act within 30 days approves the construction for purposes of the subchapter.
    • The fire code must conform to the International Fire Code or Uniform Fire Code as those codes existed on May 1, 2005, or establish protective measures exceeding those standards; later editions may be adopted.
    • Residential standards under Section 233.152 apply only if the county adopts a resolution or order and the county is within 50 miles of an international border or has a population over 100.
    • Those residential standards apply only to new single-family-house or duplex construction beginning after September 1, 2009; manufactured or modular structures governed by Occupations Code Chapters 1201 or 1202 are excluded from the definition of new residential construction.
    • A municipality's building code controls in its extraterritorial jurisdiction, and Section 233.152 does not authorize county prior approval of new residential construction or county zoning regulations.
    • Fire-code inspection and permit fees may be charged under a fee schedule based on building type, limited to amounts necessary to administer and enforce the subchapter; inspection fees must be reasonable and reflect approximate inspection costs.

    county population threshold for fire-code authority: > 250000 persons (A county adjacent to a county over 250,000 also qualifies.) · multifamily residential dwelling threshold: >= 4 units (The fire code applies only to covered buildings constructed in an unincorporated area.) · residential-code border distance: <= 50 miles (Alternative qualification is county population over 100.) · application decision period: 30 days (If the commissioners court does not issue or deny the permit within 30 days after receiving the application and fee, construction is approved for purposes of the subchapter.) · residential standards effective construction date: > 2009-09-01 (Applies only to new residential construction that begins after September 1, 2009.)

    “The commissioners court of a county with a population of over 250,000 or a county adjacent to a county with a population of over 250,000 may adopt a fire code and rules necessary to administer and enforce the fire code. [...] The fire code applies only to the following buildings constructed in an unincorporated area of the county: (1) a commercial establishment; (2) a public building; and (3) a multifamily residential dwelling consisting of four or more units.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — County fire-code adoption and building-permit authority for specified buildings in unincorporated areas of qualifying Texas counties, including multifamily residential dwellings of four or more units.
      “The commissioners court of a county with a population of over 250,000 or a county adjacent to a county with a population of over 250,000 may adopt a fire code and rules necessary to administer and enforce the fire code.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land outside incorporated municipalities in Bastrop County.
  • Accessory dwellings — Occupancy of an accessory dwelling or secondary residence on private property in unincorporated Bastrop 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 Bastrop County, Texas

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

Bastrop County scores 57/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: about 38,194 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Bastrop County, Texas?

Bastrop 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 Bastrop County Development Services - Environmental & Sanitation (OSSF). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Bastrop County, Texas?

Land in Bastrop County runs about $6,225 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Bastrop County?

Bastrop County gets about 37.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 20.5% of years.

How remote is Bastrop County?

A representative private-land location has about 38,194 people within a 30-minute drive and 9,099,833 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 Bastrop compares in Texas

Compare side-by-side →See all 254 Texas counties ranked →