Bolthole Index

Burleson County, Texas

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

55Index Score / 100
#118 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Burleson County, Texas does not require a general building permit or county building inspection, but development in a mapped floodplain needs county approval before construction12. The county sets no zoning there either3. City rules differ: Caldwell has building permits and zoning, Somerville has zoning, and Snook requires residential permits and inspections4567. Septic permits for every system in the county come from the Burleson County Environmental Department, regardless of acreage8.

At a glance

Building permit
No general permit or inspection in unincorporated areas; floodplain approval is required in mapped flood zones92
Zoning
No county zoning in unincorporated areas; Caldwell and Somerville have municipal zoning1056
Septic permits
Burleson County Environmental Department; permit required on every OSSF regardless of acreage8
RV / tiny home living
No county zoning restriction on a private unincorporated parcel; parks must follow subdivision regulations311
Minimum lot size for septic
1 acre per dwelling with public water, 2 acres with a private well12
Manufactured-home communities
A rental community outside city limits needs an approved development plan and a certificate after final infrastructure inspection13
Subdivision plat
Required to split unincorporated land with public-use areas, with exceptions for agricultural use, family transfers and lots over 10 acres1415
Septic soil difficulty
Only 19.2% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field16

Who to call

Floodplain permits

Burleson County Floodplain Office

Floodplain development permits for construction within a mapped flood zone in Burleson County

(979) 567-2333

Suite 303, Burleson County Courthouse, 100 West Buck St., Caldwell, TX 77836

Septic permits

Burleson County Environmental Department

OSSF (septic) permit applications, inspections and Licenses to Operate for Burleson County, as the county's TCEQ-authorized agent

979-567-2360

100 W. Buck St., Suite 303, Caldwell, TX 77836

Roads & driveways

Burleson County Road & Bridge Department

Utility construction and driveway/culvert access permits in the county right-of-way; driveway/culvert applications are routed to the commissioner's precinct covering the site

979-567-0076

rbadmin@burlesoncounty.org

1516 FM 166, Caldwell, TX 77836

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

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Burleson 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 Burleson County, Texas?

Unincorporated Burleson County does not require a general building permit or county building inspection because the county does not create or enforce building codes there1. Floodplain development is the important exception: county approval is required before construction begins inside a mapped floodplain, while construction outside the floodplain does not need a floodplain permit2. Building-code coverage changes at municipal boundaries. Caldwell requires building permits and has amendments reflecting 2021 ICC standards4. Snook requires residential permit documents and inspections; engineered wind-bracing plans must comply with the city's adopted codes, though the available material does not identify the code edition or adoption date17. Confirm the parcel's jurisdiction before treating the unincorporated-area answer as controlling. Septic, driveway and subdivision approvals remain separate from the general building-permit question9.

Who issues building, floodplain, septic and driveway permits in Burleson County?

Burleson County does not run a general building-code or inspection program for unincorporated construction18. For land in a mapped flood zone, applications, plans and specifications go to the Floodplain Office in the county courthouse for approval before construction begins192. Septic systems go through the Burleson County Environmental Department, the county's TCEQ-authorized agent for OSSF permits2021. A driveway or culvert that crosses a county easement or right-of-way requires an access permit, and Road & Bridge inspects the location and determines the culvert size2223. The county publishes no application fee for that access permit24. Inside Caldwell or Snook, the city issues building permits, and for floodplain questions in Caldwell, Somerville or Snook the county directs you to the city office472. What stays with the county even inside those cities: septic permits from the Environmental Department820.

Does Burleson County have zoning?

Unincorporated Burleson County has no county zoning ordinance10. Texas law gives counties zoning power only in specified areas, and Burleson County has no general authority to zone its unincorporated land25. The county therefore sets no zoning-based minimum home size, setbacks, lot-coverage limit or building-height limit there, and county zoning does not restrict accessory dwellings, RV occupancy or temporary camping3. City limits change the answer. Caldwell divides land into municipal zoning districts, adopted in April 2025, and regulates how property in each district may be used5. Somerville also has municipal zoning districts, an official zoning map, development standards, site-plan review and special-use permits within its corporate limits6. We could not confirm zoning for Snook, so ask the city before relying on the unincorporated-area answer. Dividing unincorporated land into two or more parts requires a subdivision plat unless an exception applies, including certain agricultural uses, qualifying family transfers or resulting lots over 10 acres1415.

How do septic permits work in Burleson County?

Every septic system in Burleson County needs an OSSF permit from the county's Environmental Department, the TCEQ-authorized agent for the county, covering new construction, modifications and repairs regardless of acreage820. That's stricter than Texas's usual rule: state law lets a single-family home on 10 acres or more skip OSSF permitting if a licensed site evaluator signs off, the system stays 100 feet from every property line and the dwelling is the only one on the tract, but Burleson County's own order requires a permit on every system no matter how much land you own268. Fees run $330 for a residential system and $540 for commercial; a modification against an existing permit costs $165 residential or $270 commercial, and a repair is $1008. Lot size matters too: the county requires at least 1 acre per single-family dwelling with public water access, or 2 acres with a private well12. Every system needs a construction inspection before the county issues a License to Operate, and an active water connection, well or public supply, is required on the application2728. Soils help explain the strict local rule: only 19.2% of Burleson County's land is free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so budget for a site evaluation and possibly an engineered system16.

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

On a private parcel in unincorporated Burleson County, county zoning does not impose a minimum home size or restrict occupancy of an RV, tiny home or accessory dwelling3. Dedicated RV parks, tiny-home parks and campgrounds are different: those developments must follow the county's subdivision rules, obtain infrastructure-plan approval before construction, and observe the stated park-density limit11. Manufactured-home rental communities outside municipal limits also need a Commissioners Court-approved development plan, cannot be placed in the floodplain, and need a Certificate of Compliance after the final infrastructure inspection before covered utility service13. That rental-community rule does not establish a blanket requirement for one manufactured home on a private parcel13. Caldwell and Somerville have municipal zoning, so ask the applicable city before placing or occupying an RV or tiny home inside either city56. We could not confirm a certificate-of-occupancy rule for a single home in unincorporated Burleson County; ask the Floodplain Office if the site is in a mapped floodplain19.

Building a home in Burleson County: what are the steps, in order?

First, verify the parcel's jurisdiction: Caldwell requires city building permits, while Snook requires residential permit documents and inspections under adopted city codes47. Second, check the flood map and submit plans to the Floodplain Office before construction if the site is in a mapped floodplain192. Third, order the septic site and soil evaluation, confirm the lot meets the applicable OSSF lot-size rule, and apply through the Environmental Department; every system needs a permit regardless of acreage1612208. Fourth, obtain a county access permit for a driveway or culvert crossing a county right-of-way, or apply to TxDOT for state-highway access222329. Finally, schedule the septic construction inspection before use; unincorporated construction outside the floodplain has no general county building inspection to schedule271.

What should you check before buying land in Burleson County?

Water and septic go together here: the county gets about 40.8 inches of rain a year but sees severe drought in 19.5% of years, and with just 19.2% of soils free of severe septic limitations, plan real budget for both a reliable well and a properly engineered system303116. Land is mostly flat, with 99.7% of the county at 15% slope or less, and modest tree cover at 22.3% forested, so building sites are easy to find but shade and windbreaks may need planting3233. Check the flood map before buying because all development within the floodplain requires county approval before construction2. If you're drilling a well, contact the Post Oak Savannah Groundwater Conservation District first: even an exempt domestic or livestock well needs District registration and a Certificate to Proceed with Drilling before you drill34. If the tract was recently split off a larger parcel, confirm it went through the county's subdivision-plat process or qualified for an exception, then identify whether access crosses a county right-of-way or meets a state highway142335. Typical property tax runs about 1% effectively, with a median bill near $1,816 a year, on a typical home value around $271,930363738.

Watch-outs

  • Burleson County's published material does not confirm a certificate-of-occupancy rule for a single home in an unincorporated area; ask the relevant city for property inside a municipality or the Floodplain Office for a floodplain site19.
  • Burleson County requires an OSSF permit on every septic system regardless of acreage, overriding the 10-acre exemption Texas law otherwise allows elsewhere in the state826.

Sources

  1. Permits for Construction in Unincorporated Areas, quoted and re-checked
  2. Permits for Construction in Unincorporated Areas — Floodplain Permits for Individuals or Businesses, quoted and re-checked
  3. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  4. Permits for Construction in Unincorporated Areas, quoted and re-checked
  5. Zoning & Land Use, quoted and re-checked
  6. The City of Somerville Zoning Ordinance 21-010, quoted and re-checked
  7. Residential Permit Submittal Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  8. Permits for Construction in Unincorporated Areas, quoted and re-checked
  9. Permits for Construction in Unincorporated Areas, quoted and re-checked
  10. Burleson County - Construction Permits (2026 county census)
  11. Burleson County Subdivision Regulations 2025, quoted and re-checked
  12. Environmental Department, quoted and re-checked
  13. Burleson County Subdivision Regulations 2025, quoted and re-checked
  14. Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  15. burlesoncountytx.gov, quoted and re-checked
  16. 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
  17. Residential Permit Submittal Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  18. Permits for Construction in Unincorporated Areas, quoted and re-checked
  19. Burleson County Floodplain Office (burlesoncountytx.gov)
  20. Burleson County Environmental Department (burlesoncountytx.gov)
  21. Burleson County Application for an On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  22. Burleson County Road & Bridge Department (burlesoncountytx.gov)
  23. Burleson County Policy for the Construction of Driveways and Culverts on County Easements and Rights of Way, quoted and re-checked
  24. Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  25. Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Burleson County Application for an On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  28. Burleson County Application for an On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  29. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  33. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Drilling & Wells FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  35. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  36. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  38. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Burleson County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleBurleson CountyBrazos CountyLee CountyWashington CountyMilam CountyRobertson CountyGrimes County
Building permitLimitedLimitedRequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Env. OfficeCounty Health Dept.County Development ServicesCounty Env. HealthCounty Health Dept.County OSSF ProgramCounty Env. Services Div.

County locator

Burleson County in Texas

55
County map
Burleson County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Burleson County scores

Seclusion24100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency50100% ev.
Admin Boringness7290% ev.
Durability54100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost75100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$272kTypical home
1%Property tax
$4,731Land / acre
40.8"Annual rain
19.5% of yrsSevere drought
38 / yr (+27.7)Mid-century 100°F days
22.4 daysMid-century dry spell
2.48" (+7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.41×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,710Home insurance / yr
0% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
149,476People within 30 min
9,873,026People within 2 hr
18,299Radius comparison (15 mi)
29.5People / sq mi
2.7%Federal land
99.7%Land at 15% slope or less
19.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
78,428 acWorkable land screen
22.3%Wooded land
26 tonsBiomass / forest ac
68.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Burleson 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: Snook · Somerville

Answers from the rulebook for Burleson County

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

Burleson County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    County building-permit requirements for construction in unincorporated Burleson County.

    • The county states it has no authority to create or enforce building codes in unincorporated areas.
    • For development within the floodplain, permit application and approval are required before construction begins.
    • Development and construction outside the floodplain does not require a floodplain permit.
    • If construction is within city limits, the applicable city offices administer building-code and permit requirements.
    “Because Burleson County participates in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program, permit applications and approval of all development within the floodplain are required before construction begins. Development and construction that occurs outside the floodplain does not require a floodplain permit.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Building-code adoption across Burleson County, aggregated across unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.

    • Burleson County has no authority to create or enforce building codes in unincorporated areas.
    • The City of Caldwell reports adopted building-code amendments in January 2025 updating codes to reflect 2021 ICC standards.
    • Caldwell requires building permits before construction and requires permits to be posted at the site.
    • Building-code adoption and enforcement for Somerville and Snook were not established by the official pages reviewed.

    Caldwell building-code standard: 2021 ICC standards · Caldwell building-code amendment adoption: January 2025

    “Amending Adopted Building Codes (ORDINANCE ADOPTED JANUARY 2025): Updating building codes to reflect 2021 ICC standards and resilience measures, such as energy efficiency, structural integrity, and hazard mitigation.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Not adopted — County-created or county-enforced building codes and county-required building inspections in unincorporated Burleson County.
      “Unlike cities in Texas, the county has no authority to create or enforce building codes in unincorporated areas, nor to require building inspections. If you are constructing in a floodplain see Floodplain permitting below.”
    • Not adopted — Creation or enforcement of county building codes and required building inspections in unincorporated Burleson County.
      “Unlike cities in Texas, the county has no authority to create or enforce building codes in unincorporated areas, nor to require building inspections.”
    • Not adopted — County-created or county-enforced building codes and building inspections in unincorporated Burleson County.
      “Unlike cities in Texas, the county has no authority to create or enforce building codes in unincorporated areas, nor to require building inspections. If you are constructing in a floodplain see Floodplain permitting below.”
    • Not adopted — Building-code enforcement by Burleson County in unincorporated areas of Burleson County.
      “Unlike cities in Texas, the county has no authority to create or enforce building codes in unincorporated areas, nor to require building inspections. If you are constructing in a floodplain see Floodplain permitting below.”
  • InspectionsNot required

    County building inspections for construction in unincorporated Burleson County.

    • The county page separately states that floodplain permit applications and approval are required before construction in the floodplain; this claim concerns building inspections.
    “Unlike cities in Texas, the county has no authority to create or enforce building codes in unincorporated areas, nor to require building inspections.”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • 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.
    “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.”
  • Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • 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.
    “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.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in Burleson County seeking an on-site sewage facility permit.

    • The county states these are a summary of an OSSF order updated as of November 1, 2023.
    • With public water access, each single-family dwelling requires at least 1 acre.
    • With private well access, each single-family dwelling requires at least 2 acres.
    • Each living unit of a multi-family dwelling, including duplexes, is treated as a single-family dwelling for lot-size purposes.
    • For property subdivided before November 1, 2023, public-water subdivisions using individual OSSFs require at least 1/2 acre lots; subdivisions without a public water system using individual OSSFs require at least 1 acre lots.
    • Smaller lots subdivided before January 1, 1988 may apply for an OSSF only if the system complies with Chapter 285 and the Burleson County OSSF Order.
    • For lots smaller than 1/2 acre, the system must be designed by a Registered Sanitarian or Professional Engineer, regardless of system type.
    • The lot must be large enough to meet all required septic-system setbacks.

    minimum lot size with public water, single-family dwelling: >= 1 acre · minimum lot size with private well, single-family dwelling: >= 2 acres · minimum lot size for pre-November 1, 2023 public-water subdivision using individual OSSF: >= 0.5 acre (property subdivided before November 1, 2023) · minimum lot size for pre-November 1, 2023 subdivision without public water using individual OSSF: >= 1 acre (property subdivided before November 1, 2023) · small-lot design threshold: < 0.5 acre (Registered Sanitarian or Professional Engineer design required)

    “With public water access you will need a minimum of 1 acre for each single family dwelling.”
  • Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • 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.
    “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.”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • 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.
    “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.”
  • Building height · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • 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.
    “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.”
  • Living in an RV · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • 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.
    “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.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • 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.
    “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.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny homes in unincorporated Burleson County RV or tiny-home parks and campgrounds.

    • A tiny home is defined as a home under 600 square feet, on either a mobile platform or permanent foundation.
    • Tiny homes on mobile platforms are considered RVs and must follow RV rules.
    • The park or campground must have an approved infrastructure development plan before construction.
    • The source does not establish a general rule for a single tiny home on private land outside a covered park or campground.

    tiny-home size threshold: < 600 square feet · maximum tiny-home park density: <= 15 units per acre

    “Any home that falls under 600 square feet”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes in manufactured-home rental communities outside municipal limits in Burleson County.

    • The owner must prepare a Development Plan meeting the minimum infrastructure standards.
    • No portion of the manufactured-home rental community may be located within the floodplain.
    • The Commissioners Court must approve the Development Plan before construction begins.
    • The Commissioners Court must issue a Certificate of Compliance after the required final infrastructure inspection.
    • Utilities may not serve a covered manufactured home rental community, manufactured home, or recreational vehicle unless the owner provides the utility a Certificate of Compliance.
    • The source does not establish a general rule for a single manufactured home outside a rental community.

    Development Plan decision period: 60 days (The period begins when an administratively complete plan is submitted; corrections restart the period) · minimum rental space: >= 0.25 acre (A manufactured-home rental community with 5 or fewer units on 6 or more acres is exempt from the quarter-acre minimum rental-space requirement) · minimum setback from property line or street: >= 50 feet · minimum open space from adjacent manufactured home/RV or structure: >= 25 feet · maximum manufactured homes or RVs per rental space: 1 unit (One storage shed also permitted)

    “The owner of land located in Burleson County outside the city limits of a municipality who intends to use the land for a manufactured home rental community must have a Development Plan prepared that complies with the minimum infrastructure standards set forth below.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • 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.
    “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.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    OSSF permitting and inspection in Burleson County.

    • The Burleson County designated representative acts as the authorized agent for TCEQ.
    • The application authorizes the designated representative to enter the property for lot evaluation and OSSF inspection.
    “the authorized agent for Texas Commission On Environmental Quality (TCEQ)”
  • Septic permitRequired

    All septic systems and OSSFs in Burleson County, including new construction, modifications, and repairs.

    • The county requires permits for new, modified, and repaired septic systems.
    • The county application states that a permit is required regardless of acreage.
    • Applications require the listed supporting documents, including a 911 address verification letter, site and soil evaluation, system plan/design, and permit fee.
    • If an installer does not request a construction inspection within one year after authorization to construct, the authorization expires and a new application and fee are required.
    • Fees are subject to change.

    residential new construction or system replacement permit fee: 330 USD · commercial new construction or system replacement permit fee: 540 USD · residential system modification fee when a current permit is on file: 165 USD · commercial system modification fee when a current permit is on file: 270 USD · system repair fee when a current permit is on file: 100 USD

    “The county requires septic permits on ALL septic systems (OSSF) (new, modified, or repaired septic systems).”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    All permitted OSSFs in Burleson County before the system is placed into use.

    • All systems require a construction inspection before a License-to-Operate is issued.
    • A License-to-Operate is required before the septic system is put into use.
    • The application states that a successful inspection must show installation compliance with TCEQ OSSF rules, 30 TAC Chapter 285.
    • If the construction inspection is not requested within one year after authorization to construct, the authorization expires and a new application and fee are required.
    “All systems require a construction inspection”
  • Well permitLimited

    Groundwater wells located in Burleson County, within the jurisdiction of the Post Oak Savannah Groundwater Conservation District.

    • Before drilling a new well, the applicant must contact the District to determine the applicable process.
    • Exempt wells require District registration and a Certificate to Proceed with Drilling before drilling begins; the District reviews the well upon completion.
    • Non-exempt wells require a District drilling permit before drilling, re-drilling, or replacement and an operating permit before groundwater is produced or pumped.
    • Domestic or livestock wells are commonly exempt when used for domestic/livestock activity, incapable of producing more than 25,000 gallons per day, and compliant with District requirements, including minimum water-rights requirements for new exempt wells.
    • The District covers Milam and Burleson counties.

    maximum production for common exempt domestic or livestock well: <= 25000 gallons per day (The well must also satisfy applicable District requirements.) · approximate maximum production for common exempt domestic or livestock well: <= 17.36 gallons per minute (Approximate equivalent stated by the District.)

    “Exempt wells, which still require District registration and a Certificate to Proceed with Drilling before drilling begins.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater (with conditions)

    Properties applying for an OSSF permit in Burleson County.

    • An active connection to a water supply is required for the OSSF application.
    • The water source may be a private well or a public water supply; if public, the applicant must provide the water company name.
    • This claim addresses the OSSF application condition, not a general countywide mandate to connect every property to public water or sewer.
    “An active connection to a water supply is required!”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Certain divisions of land outside municipal limits where the land is used primarily for agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production purposes and no public-use or lot-owner streets, alleys, squares, parks, or similar areas are laid out.

    • The agricultural exception applies only when the division does not include laying out part of the tract for streets, alleys, squares, parks, or other areas intended for public use or for purchasers or owners of lots.
    • The land must be used primarily for agricultural use as defined by Section I-d, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production use within Article VIII, Section I-d-1.
    • If the tract ceases to meet the exception requirements, it loses the exception and platting requirements apply.
    • Even exempt divisions remain subject to applicable county rules and development-permit procedures, including driveway permits, OSSF, floodplain hazard management, and 9-1-1 addressing.
    “the land is to be used primarily for agricultural use”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Division and platting of tracts outside incorporated towns or cities in Burleson County, subject to the regulations and stated exceptions; ETJ property may also be subject to applicable interlocal agreements.

    • A tract divided into two or more parts for subdivision, lots, streets, parks, alleys, squares, or similar public or lot-owner purposes must comply with the regulations and Texas Local Government Code Section 232.001.
    • A plat is not required for specified divisions that satisfy the listed exceptions, including primarily agricultural use, certain family transfers of four or fewer parts, certain retained/remainder tracts, lots over 10 acres, Veterans Land Board sales, certain state-owned land, and the specific two-part exception in Section 3.B(7).
    • Section 3.C states that exempt divisions remain subject to applicable county rules and development-permit procedures, including driveway permits, OSSF, floodplain hazard management, and 9-1-1 addressing.
    • If property lies entirely outside city corporate limits and ETJs, county platting procedures apply; if it lies in a city ETJ, the applicable interlocal agreement controls.
    • The county subdivision page lists a $3,000 plus $100 per lot subdivision-plat fee, $100 simplified-plat fee, $80 recording fee, and $50 subdivision-exception filing fee.

    subdivision plat fee: 3000 USD (plus $100 per lot) · simplified plat fee: 100 USD · recording fee: 80 USD (paid to Burleson County Clerk) · subdivision exception filing fee: 50 USD (due when exception form and plat are submitted to Commissioners Court)

    “a plat is required when a Parent Tract is divided into two or more Daughter Tracts.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction or repair of a driveway or culvert crossing a Burleson County easement or right-of-way.

    • The policy is specifically for county easements and rights-of-way.
    • The applicant must fill out the access permit at the Burleson County 911 Addressing Office.
    • The driveway location must be marked with white flags within 24 hours.
    • A Road & Bridge representative inspects the location, determines the required culvert diameter, and identifies any required ditch or flowline modifications before construction.
    • The applicant is responsible for installation, inspection corrections, driveway installation costs, and damage to the county road.
    • There is no application fee for an Access Permit.
    • Driveway width is listed as a 24-foot minimum on the application.
    • The culvert must be at least 16-gauge steel corrugated metal pipe, with a minimum length of 24 feet, and the diameter is determined by the Road & Bridge Department.
    • Additional driveways or culvert extensions require a new access permit.
    • The policy is effective March 30, 2021.
    • Construction or repair without a permit may result in injunctive action or an order requiring removal or repair at the landowner’s expense.

    minimum driveway width: >= 24 ft · minimum culvert pipe length: >= 24 ft · application fee: 0 USD (The policy states there is no application fee for an Access Permit.)

    “If any person engages in the construction or repair of a driveway or culvert crossing a County easement or right-of-way without a permit”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    All development within the floodplain in unincorporated Burleson County, before construction begins.

    • The requirement applies to development within the floodplain; development and construction outside the floodplain does not require a floodplain permit.
    • A legal description from the property deed is required to complete the application.
    • The application, plans, and specifications must be submitted to the Floodplain office, Suite 303 of the courthouse, for review and approval before construction begins.
    • Additional permits may be required under state and federal regulations for development in designated wetlands.
    • The Flood Damage Prevention Order is identified on the county page as adopted June 23, 2008.
    • For incorporated City of Caldwell, Somerville, and Snook property, the county page directs applicants to the respective city offices for floodplain information.
    “permit applications and approval of all development within the floodplain are required before construction begins.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published fees for specified Burleson County permits, including subdivision plats, recording, OSSF permits, and oil-and-gas floodplain development.

    • Subdivision Plat fee is $3,000 plus $100 per lot.
    • Simplified Plat fee is $100.
    • County Clerk recording fee is $80.00 and must be submitted separately from the plat-submittal fee.
    • Residential OSSF permit fee is $330.
    • Commercial OSSF permit fee is $540.
    • Oil-and-gas floodplain development application fee is $500.00.
    • The driveway access policy states there is no application fee for an Access Permit.

    subdivision plat fee: 3000 USD (plus $100 per lot) · simplified plat fee: 100 USD · recording fee: 80 USD (County Clerk fee; separate check or money order) · residential OSSF permit fee: 330 USD · commercial OSSF permit fee: 540 USD · oil and gas floodplain application fee: 500 USD · driveway access permit application fee: 0 USD

    “Plat Fees: Subdivision Plat - $3,000 + $100 per lot Simplified Plat - $100”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    The county lists no zoning; Texas counties generally lack zoning authority in unincorporated areas, and the county's own page describes only subdivision, driveway, floodplain, utility, and OSSF permits.

    Burleson County - Construction Permits ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Texas rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner performing electrical, plumbing, or air-conditioning and refrigeration work on the owner's own residence or homestead in Texas.

    • Electrical work is exempt from state electrician licensing when performed on a dwelling the person owns and resides in.
    • Plumbing is exempt from state plumbing licensing when performed by the property owner in the property owner's homestead.
    • Air-conditioning and refrigeration contracting is exempt from the applicable state registration requirements when performed in a building owned solely by the person as the person's home.
    • These exemptions do not establish a blanket exemption for every construction trade or contractor-regulated activity.
    “A person who perform electrical work on a dwelling that they own and reside in is not required by the state to be licensed as electricians.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Electrical work on a dwelling owned and occupied by the property owner in Texas.
      “A person who perform electrical work on a dwelling that they own and reside in is not required by the state to be licensed”
  • 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.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Constructing a new driveway or revising an existing driveway on the right of way of a Texas state highway.

    • The applicant should contact the local District TxDOT office.
    • The applicant must submit Form 1058, Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way.
    • The application must be for the bona fide purpose of securing or changing access to the owner's property, not parking or servicing vehicles on state highway rights of way.
    • No construction may begin on the right of way until a fully executed driveway permit is received and the applicant gives TxDOT 24-hour notification.
    • The driveway must comply with the executed permit and applicable regulations; TxDOT inspection must find construction satisfactory.
    • Where a local public agency has permitting authority, drainage impacts on the state highway system still require TxDOT approval before local approval.
    • Driveway geometrics, utilities, environmental requirements, wetlands considerations, ADAAG, TAS, and other applicable state and federal laws must be considered.

    required form: Form 1058, Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way · advance notification: 24 hours (Notification to TxDOT is required before construction on the right of way.) · private residential driveway maximum width: <= 24 feet (Except as increased by permissible radii.) · minimum driveway radius to highway pavement: >= 15 feet

    “The applicant shall complete and submit to TxDOT a Form 1058”
  • 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Burleson County

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Residential construction subject to City of Snook permit review within the incorporated city limits.

    • Residential permit submittals require construction documents and a completed permit application.
    • Engineered wind-bracing plans must comply with current adopted City Codes.
    • The official material does not state the code adoption date or effective date.
    • Permit review and inspections are administered through the city's stated permit process and Bureau Veritas materials.
    “Engineered Wind Bracing Plans – comply with current adopted City Codes”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Residential construction requiring permit submittals and inspections within the City of Snook, Burleson County, Texas.
      “Engineered Wind Bracing Plans – comply with current adopted City Codes”
    • Partial — Engineered wind-bracing plans submitted for residential permits in the City of Snook.
      “Engineered Wind Bracing Plans – comply with current adopted City Codes”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning within the incorporated City of Caldwell, Burleson County, Texas.

    • The City of Caldwell divides land into zoning districts and regulates uses through zoning rules.
    • Zoning-related changes, conditional-use requests, variances, and similar matters require the city's public-hearing process.
    • The source states that the zoning ordinance was adopted in April 2025; it does not provide a separate effective date.
    “Zoning is the regulatory system by which the City of Caldwell divides land into different districts (or zones) and establishes rules about how each area can be used—such as agricultural, large-lot residential, residential, mixed-residential, mixed-use, downtown core, general commercial, highway commercial, or industrial.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use zoning within the incorporated City of Caldwell, Burleson County, Texas.
      “Zoning is the regulatory system by which the City of Caldwell divides land into different districts (or zones) and establishes rules about how each area can be used—such as agricultural, large-lot residential, residential, mixed-residential, mixed-use, downtown core, general commercial, highway commercial, or industrial.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Property within the corporate limits of the City of Somerville, Burleson County, Texas.
      “This Ordinance is adopted in pursuant to authority set forth in Chapter 211 of the Texas Local Government Code, Vernon's Texas Code Annotated (V.T.C.A.), as amended, and shall be applicable to all property within the corporate limits of Somerville, Texas, herein referred to as "the City."”

Still unanswered

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

  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy for buildings or structures in unincorporated Burleson County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rentals in Burleson 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 Burleson County, Texas

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

Burleson County scores 55/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: about 149,476 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Burleson County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Burleson County Environmental Office (TCEQ-authorized agent), Burleson County Courthouse Suite 303. 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 Burleson County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Burleson County is allowed: Unincorporated Burleson County: no county rule sets this, because Burleson County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing burlesoncountytx.gov. Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits. Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Burleson County, Texas?

Land in Burleson County runs about $4,731 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Burleson County?

Burleson County gets about 40.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 19.5% of years.

How remote is Burleson County?

A representative private-land location has about 149,476 people within a 30-minute drive and 9,873,026 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 Burleson compares in Texas

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