Bolthole Index

Concho County, Texas

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

47Index Score / 100
#157 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Concho County, Texas does not require a county building permit for a home and has no county zoning ordinance12. Eden has its own zoning ordinance, while subdivision and platting remain regulated in unincorporated Concho County34. The Concho County OSSF Program handles septic permits and inspections outside incorporated cities5.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required by the county in unincorporated areas1
Zoning
No county zoning ordinance on unincorporated land2
Septic permits
Handled by the Concho County OSSF Program outside incorporated cities5
RV and tiny-home living
No county zoning restriction on unincorporated land6
Minimum home size and setbacks
No county zoning rule on unincorporated land6
Subdivision and platting
County subdivision regulations apply in unincorporated areas4
Water wells
District rules apply in the Hickory UWCD portion of the county7

Who to call

Also useful

Concho County Judge / Commissioners Court

General county-government questions when no specialized county office is listed

(325) 732-4322

152 N. Roberts, Paint Rock, Texas 76866

Septic permits

Concho County OSSF Program

OSSF inspections for Concho County outside incorporated cities

325-456-4607

Also useful

Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1

Water-well notices, registration and permits within the district's portion of Concho County

325-597-2785

hickoryuwcd@yahoo.com

111 E. Main Street, Brady, TX 76825

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Concho 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 Concho County, Texas?

Unincorporated Concho County does not require a county building permit for a home1. No separate county building-inspection requirement or certificate-of-occupancy rule could be confirmed, so ask the County Judge / Commissioners Court about current county practice before construction8. Texas gives counties only limited building authority: qualifying counties may adopt fire-code permits for commercial buildings, public buildings and larger multifamily projects, while a separate residential framework requires county adoption9.

Because the county requires no building permit for an unincorporated home, there is no county owner-builder exemption to apply for1. Separately, Texas licensing exemptions let an owner do electrical work on a dwelling the owner lives in, and plumbing in the owner's homestead, without a state trade license10. Eden parcels require a city-level zoning check, and parcels in other incorporated cities also need a separate municipal review3. Factory-built industrialized housing and modular components can also fall under a partial statewide code program even where a conventional site-built home has no county permit11.

Who handles building permits and land questions in Concho County?

Concho County does not list a separate building, planning or zoning department, which is consistent with the finding that a home-building permit is not required on unincorporated land1. For a parcel-specific question, contact the Concho County Judge / Commissioners Court at 152 N. Roberts in Paint Rock or call (325) 732-43228.

Septic work has its own contact: the Concho County OSSF Program handles county inspections outside incorporated cities at 325-456-460712. Water-well questions require another jurisdiction check. In the part of Concho County within Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1, contact the district in Brady before drilling713. Another part of the county lies inside the Lipan-Kickapoo Water Conservation District, which requires permits for new non-exempt wells and registration of every well; check the district's boundary map for your parcel14. A new or modified driveway connecting to a Texas state highway goes through the local TxDOT district using Form 1058, and right-of-way construction cannot begin until the permit is executed15.

Does Concho County have zoning?

Unincorporated Concho County has no county zoning ordinance2. Texas county zoning authority is limited to specifically authorized places and subjects rather than being a general statewide county power16. As a result, Concho County sets no zoning-based minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setback, lot-coverage limit or building-height limit on unincorporated land6.

Eden is different: the city has a zoning ordinance with zoning districts, a zoning map and a board of adjustment3. The unincorporated-county conclusion still applies to county zoning restrictions on accessory dwellings, manufactured homes, tiny homes, RV occupancy and temporary camping6. County subdivision and platting regulations also apply when land is divided, although the detailed requirements could not be confirmed from the county's published document4. County zoning freedom does not remove septic rules, groundwater-district rules, state-highway access permits or private deed restrictions. Ask the County Judge / Commissioners Court about subdivision review and any parcel-specific county process8.

How do septic permits work in Concho County?

The Concho County OSSF Program handles septic inspections in unincorporated Concho County and expressly excludes incorporated cities5. Texas generally requires a permit to construct, install, alter, extend or repair a septic system, and an authorized agent inspects construction after authorization1718. Contact the county program at 325-456-4607 before choosing or installing a system12. The county's published fee for a single-family residence septic permit is $350, and every other listed permit type is also $350, payable by check or money order before the Notice of Approval is issued19.

The Texas exemption for a single-family home on a tract of at least 10 acres is narrow: it also requires a licensed site evaluation, at least 100 feet between every system part and the property line, on-property effluent disposal, no nuisance or groundwater pollution, and no other dwelling on the tract17. Concho County's soils add practical risk because only about 9% are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field20. Budget for a site evaluation before treating a conventional system as feasible.

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

Unincorporated Concho County has no county zoning restriction on RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy, manufactured-home occupancy or temporary camping6. Concho County also sets no zoning-based minimum dwelling size or setback on unincorporated land6. Eden is not covered by that answer because the city has its own zoning ordinance3.

Wastewater remains regulated even when the dwelling type is not restricted by county zoning. Septic systems and holding tanks generally require approval, while the state's acreage exemption applies only when every listed condition is satisfied21. The Concho County OSSF Program serves locations outside incorporated cities, so call that office before planning an RV hookup or tiny-home wastewater system12. No separate county certificate-of-occupancy or utility-connection rule could be confirmed. Ask the County Judge / Commissioners Court about current county practice, and ask the city about zoning before placing an RV or tiny home in Eden83.

Building a home in Concho County: the steps, in order

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated; the county permit and zoning answers here apply only outside cities, and Eden has its own zoning ordinance123.
  2. If the project divides land or relies on a newly created lot, ask the County Judge / Commissioners Court about subdivision and platting review before finalizing the site plan48.
  3. Call the Concho County OSSF Program before septic design or installation, and determine whether the state acreage exemption actually fits the tract1217.
  4. Determine whether a groundwater conservation district covers the parcel because district rules can require permits for non-exempt wells, spacing and other conditions22. In the Hickory district's portion of Concho County, submit a Notice of Intent before drilling any well; non-exempt wells need a permit before drilling7.
  5. If access will connect to a Texas state highway, contact the local TxDOT district and submit Form 1058 before work in the right of way15.
  6. Ask the County Judge / Commissioners Court whether any parcel-specific floodplain process applies, because a published county floodplain-development rule could not be confirmed8.

What should you check before buying land in Concho County?

Start with water and septic feasibility. Only about 9% of Concho County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, annual precipitation is about 25 inches, and severe drought occurs in roughly 19% of years202324. Texas has no statewide minimum acreage for drilling a well, but groundwater districts and other local entities may impose requirements; identify the parcel's jurisdiction before relying on a well plan22. Parts of Concho County lie inside Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1, where every well needs a Notice of Intent and non-exempt wells need permits7.

Verify that the parcel was lawfully created because Concho County regulates subdivision and platting in unincorporated areas4. The terrain is mostly gentle, with about 97% of land at a slope of 15% or less, but legal access still needs verification25. A driveway onto a state highway requires the TxDOT process15. Concho County is sparsely settled at about 3.4 people per square mile, and the nearest city of 100,000 or more is about 82 miles from the county center2627. The typical effective property-tax rate is about 1.5%, with a median annual bill near $1,6002829.

Watch-outs

  • Eden has municipal zoning, so do not apply the unincorporated Concho County zoning answer to land inside the city3.
  • County subdivision and platting regulations can apply even though unincorporated Concho County has no county zoning ordinance42.
  • A septic acreage exemption is not automatic: every state condition, including the site evaluation and property-line separation, must be met17.
  • Hickory Underground Water Conservation District rules apply only in its portion of Concho County, so confirm the parcel boundary before planning a well7.
  • No official Concho County floodplain-development rule was confirmed; ask the County Judge / Commissioners Court before building in or near mapped flood hazard areas8.

Sources

  1. Concho County, Texas - Official County Website (2026 county census)
  2. Concho County, Texas - Official County Website (2026 county census)
  3. City of Eden City Ordinance Summary, quoted and re-checked
  4. Commissioners Court, quoted and re-checked
  5. Concho County Septic Site Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  6. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  7. About Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1, quoted and re-checked
  8. Concho County Judge / Commissioners Court (co.concho.tx.us)
  9. Local Government Code Chapter 233, County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Exemptions to Electrician Licensing (2026 county census)
  11. Industrialized Housing and Buildings – Adoption of New Code Editions (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Concho County OSSF Program (co.concho.tx.us)
  13. Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1 (hickoryuwcd.org)
  14. District Description, quoted and re-checked
  15. TxDOT Access Management Manual: Permits, quoted and re-checked
  16. Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  18. How to Become a Texas On-Site Sewage Facility (Septic System) Authorized Agent, quoted and re-checked
  19. Concho County Authorized Agent OSSF Program — Application Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  20. 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
  21. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  22. General Groundwater and Private Water Well Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), quoted and re-checked
  23. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  24. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  25. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  26. Population density: Bolthole Index county data
  27. Straight-line distance from the county center to the nearest city of 100,000+ people: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleConcho CountyMcCulloch CountyMenard CountyTom Green CountyRunnels CountyColeman CountySchleicher County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty OSSF ProgramMcCulloch CountyMenardCounty Env. HealthTCEQColeman CountySchleicher County

County locator

Concho County in Texas

47
County map
Concho County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Concho County scores

Seclusion81100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1696% ev.
Admin Boringness8290% ev.
Durability37100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost8196% ev.

Evidence strength: 97%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$174kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$2,193Land / acre
25.1"Annual rain
19.1% of yrsSevere drought
47.1 / yr (+29)Mid-century 100°F days
27.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.85" (+6.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.34×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,993Home insurance / yr
-1.4% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
160,467People within 2 hr
3,287Radius comparison (15 mi)
3.4People / sq mi
0%Federal land
97.2%Land at 15% slope or less
9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
55,743 acWorkable land screen
2.8%Wooded land
5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
65.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Concho 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.

Eden · Town of Paint Rock

Answers from the rulebook for Concho County

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

Concho County rules

  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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 Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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 size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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.”
  • Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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 Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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 Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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 Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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 Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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 homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us.

    • 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/septic inspections and the county OSSF program in unincorporated Concho County.

    • The county page identifies Charles McDonald as Designated Representative for Concho County.
    • The page states that the program is for Concho County inspections only and does not include any incorporated city in Concho County.
    “Designated Representative for Concho County [...] For Concho County Inspections ONLY. This does not include any incorporated city in Concho County.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Water wells located within the portions of Concho County inside the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1.

    • The district covers portions of Concho County, not the entire county.
    • A Notice of Intent to Drill is required before drilling any well, whether exempt or permitted.
    • Non-exempt wells require permit applications and issuance of permits before drilling.
    • No permit is required for a well used solely for domestic use, or solely for livestock or poultry on a tract larger than 10 acres, when the well is incapable of producing more than 25,000 gallons per day.
    • No permit is required for specified oil-and-gas-rig, Railroad Commission mining, and temporary groundwater-rig wells, subject to the conditions stated in Rule 8.2.
    • The district separately exempts a one-well-per-lot well on a lot of 10 acres or less serving no more than four households solely for domestic use, subject to the stated relationship or employment conditions.
    • A subdivision water-supply well for which plat approval is required under Local Government Code Chapter 232 is not exempt under Rules 8.2(A) and 8.2(C).
    • All non-permitted wells must be registered; exempt wells remain subject to registration and district rules.
    • Exemptions do not allow groundwater waste; exceeding an exemption or changing the exempted use or location ends the exemption and continued use without a permit violates district rules.
    • The amended rules were approved and became effective March 26, 2026.

    production threshold for specified domestic/livestock exemption: <= 25000 gallons per day (The well must be incapable of producing more than 25,000 gallons per day.) · livestock or poultry tract threshold: > 10 acres (Applies to the stated livestock or poultry exemption.) · small-lot exemption size: <= 10 acres (Only one well per lot, no more than four households, solely domestic use, and the specified household/owner/employee relationship conditions apply.) · temporary groundwater-rig exemption duration: <= 180 days (May be extended by the District.)

    “No person shall begin to drill, substantially alter, or produce from a well without having received a permit or permit amendment from the District”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Non-exempt wells in the portions of Concho County within the legal boundaries of Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1.
      “No person shall [...] produce from a well without having received a permit.”
    • Not required — Exempt wells in the portions of Concho County within Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1.
      “The District may not require a permit for drilling or producing from a well”
    • Limited — Water wells on the portion of Concho County within the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1.
      “RULE 8.1 STANDARD PERMIT PROVISION: No person shall begin to drill, substantially alter, or produce from a well without having received a permit or permit amendment from the District, unless the well is exempted from permitting under Rule 8.2.”
    • Limited — Water wells on the portion of Concho County within the Lipan-Kickapoo Water Conservation District.
      “Required for all new non-exempt wells and existing non-exempt wells that produce more than 25,000 gallons per day. All wells both exempt and non-exempt must be registered with the District.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision regulation administered by Concho County, including county subdivision rules identified by the Commissioners Court page; incorporated municipalities may have separate authority.

    • The county page identifies a Concho County subdivision regulation, but the linked PDF was not machine-readable during this review, so no additional numeric requirements are asserted here.
    • State statutory exceptions and municipal or extraterritorial-jurisdiction rules may affect applicability.
    “CONCHO COUNTY SUBDIVISION REGULATION COUNTY TAX ABATEMENT RESOLUTION AND GUIDELINES”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision and platting in unincorporated Concho County.
      “Concho County Commissioner Precinct Map City of Eden Commissioner Precinct Map CONCHO COUNTY SUBDIVISION REGULATION COUNTY TAX ABATEMENT RESOLUTION AND GUIDELINES APPLICATION FOR PIPELINE UTILITY/COMMUNICATION PERMIT”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Concho County authorized-agent on-site sewage facility permits and related inspections.

    • The published fee is for OSSF permits, not a general building permit.
    • Single-family residence permit fee is $350.00.
    • All other listed OSSF permits, including commercial and multi-unit residential, are $350.00.
    • All fees must be paid before a Notice of Approval will be issued.
    • A reinspection fee equal to one-half of the permit fee must be paid by the installer each time the system must be reinspected.
    • Fees must be paid by check or money order to the permitting authority, are non-refundable, and cash will not be accepted.

    single-family residence OSSF permit fee: 350 USD · commercial or multi-unit residential OSSF permit fee: 350 USD · reinspection fee: one-half of permit fee (Each time the system must be reinspected)

    “PERMIT FEES SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE $350.00 ALL OTHERS $350.00 (Commercial, Multi unit Residential)”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county planning or zoning department appears among Concho County's offices; Texas counties generally lack zoning authority in unincorporated areas.

    Concho County, Texas - Official County Website ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Texas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Industrialized housing or buildings installed in Texas, including purchasers or lessees acquiring a unit for their own or their company’s use.

    • A person purchasing or leasing an industrialized house or building for their own use or their company’s use may file for an installation permit instead of registering as an industrialized builder.
    • A person responsible for assembly, connection, and on-site construction for persons other than themselves must be registered as an industrialized builder.
    • Municipalities may require applicable local permits and licenses before construction begins when the municipality regulates the installation.
    “A person who is a retailer of industrialized housing or buildings, or who is responsible for the assembly, connection, and on-site construction and erection of an industrialized house or building for persons other than themselves, must be registered as an industrialized builder. Subcontractors do not require the registration unless required by other applicable state laws. For example, electricians, HVAC contractors, and plumbers must be licensed in accordance with the applicable state law. If you are purchasing or leasing an industrialized house or building for your own use, or your company's use, you may file for an installation permit in lieu of registering as an industrialized builder.”
  • 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”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components governed by the Texas Industrialized Housing and Buildings program.

    • The mandatory state code adoption applies to industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components, not all construction statewide.
    • The effective date is July 1, 2024.
    • The International Existing Building Code applies to alterations of portable industrialized buildings.
    • Manufacturers already certified for Texas must have design-package documents reviewed and approved to the new editions with an approval date on or after July 1, 2024, unless the manufacturer elected to transition before the effective date under Department rule 70.70(a)(5)(B).
    • Construction begun on or after July 1, 2024 must comply with the new code editions and approved design packages.
    • Construction begun before July 1, 2024, or before a manufacturer's effective transition date, must meet the stated completion, inspection, and labeling deadline to remain eligible for a Texas decal.

    effective date: 2024-07-01 · International Building Code: 2021 Edition (including appendices C, F, and K) · International Residential Code: 2021 Edition (including appendices AG, AH, AK, AP, AQ, and AT) · International Fuel Gas Code: 2021 Edition · International Mechanical Code: 2021 Edition · International Plumbing Code: 2021 Edition · International Energy Conservation Code: 2015 Edition · National Electrical Code: 2020 Edition · International Existing Building Code: 2021 Edition (for alterations of portable industrialized buildings)

    “July 1, 2024, all industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components shall comply with the following codes, as amended in §70.101 of the IHB Rules:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components built for Texas under the Industrialized Housing and Buildings program.
      “Effective July 1, 2024, all industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components shall comply with the following codes, as amended in §70.101 of the IHB Rules:”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, and operation of OSSFs in Texas, subject to stated exemptions and local requirements.

    • A permit and approved plan are required for construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of an OSSF.
    • A permit is generally required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF.
    • A local permitting authority must be checked because local programs may be more stringent than state minimums.
    • The 10-acre exemption requires compliance with 30 TAC Chapter 285 planning, construction, and installation standards; a site evaluation by a TCEQ-licensed site evaluator or professional engineer; service to a single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres; no nuisance or groundwater pollution; all OSSF parts at least 100 feet from the property line; on-site effluent disposal; and the single-family dwelling must be the only dwelling on the tract.
    • Emergency repairs listed by TCEQ do not require a permit but must be reported to the permitting authority in writing within 72 hours after repairs begin.
    • Grandfathered systems may be exempt if installed before the local program was authorized or before September 1, 1989, whichever is earlier, and if they are not creating a nuisance, are not in need of repair, and have had no significant increase in use or other alteration.
    • The permitting authority must approve or deny planning materials and the permit application within 30 days of receipt.

    minimum tract size for 10-acre exemption: >= 10 acres (single-family dwelling and all other stated conditions must be met) · minimum OSSF setback under 10-acre exemption: >= 100 feet from property line (all parts of the OSSF) · emergency repair reporting deadline: <= 72 hours (after repairs have begun) · permit application decision deadline: <= 30 days (from receipt by permitting authority)

    “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF/septic system in Texas, including Concho County, subject to the stated exemptions and local permitting authority requirements.
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF.”
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF in Texas
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an 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”:”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    OSSF installation and, where applicable, maintenance inspections in Texas

    • Authorized agents or their designated representatives inspect system installation.
    • Some permitting authorities impose more stringent requirements.
    • Maintenance-provider inspection and reporting requirements apply to systems and circumstances governed by 30 TAC §285.91(4).
    • Electronic monitoring may reduce reporting to every six months where the stated monitoring conditions apply.

    reduced maintenance reporting interval with qualifying electronic monitoring: 6 months (only where the system uses the specified electronic monitoring, automatic notification, and disinfection monitoring)

    “Many times, the AA has a "designated representative" (DR) to assist them with their responsibilities, which include reviewing plans for constructing, altering, extending or repairing each OSSF; issuing permits; and inspecting system installation. [...] If the system uses an electronic monitor, automatic radio or telephone to notify the maintenance provider of system or component failure and to monitor the amount of disinfection in the system, reporting may be reduced to every six months.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — OSSF construction inspections performed by the permitting authority after an authorization to construct has been issued.
      “inspections of OSSFs that have been issued an authorization to construct to ensure the installation of the OSSF meets the criteria established by the TCEQ”
    • Limited — OSSFs using secondary treatment or drip irrigation in Texas.
      “A system using secondary treatment or drip irrigation must be inspected by a valid maintenance company once every four months, or be maintained by the single family homeowner, where allowed.”
  • 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”:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Off-grid sanitation using an OSSF, septic system, or holding tank in Texas, including Concho County.
      “Permits are required for on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs) including septic systems and holding tanks.”
    • 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.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    A tract outside municipal limits in Concho County that is divided into two or more parts without laying out a subdivision component intended for public use, when the land is to be used primarily for agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production purposes.

    • The tract must be located outside the limits of a municipality.
    • The owner must divide the tract into two or more parts.
    • The owner must not lay out a part of the tract described by Local Government Code Section 232.001(a)(3), which concerns streets, alleys, squares, parks, or other parts intended for public use.
    • The land must be used primarily for agricultural use as defined by Section 1-d, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production use within the meaning of Section 1-d-1, Article VIII, Texas Constitution.
    • If the tract ceases to be used primarily for the qualifying agricultural or production use, the Chapter 232 platting requirements apply.
    • This exemption concerns the county platting requirement and does not waive separate septic, floodplain, water, municipal, or other applicable requirements.

    number of parts: >= 2 parts or more · qualifying use: primarily agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production · public-use dedication: none (The owner must not lay out a part described by Section 232.001(a)(3).)

    “A county may not require the owner of a tract of land located outside the limits of a municipality who divides the tract into two or more parts to have a plat of the subdivision prepared if: (1) the owner does not lay out a part of the tract described by Section 232.001(a)(3); and (2) the land is to be used primarily for agricultural use, as defined by Section 1-d, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production use within the meaning of Section 1-d-1, Article VIII, Texas Constitution.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction of a new driveway or revision of an existing driveway connecting to a highway on the Texas state highway system, including applicable highways in Concho County.

    • The applicant should contact the local District TxDOT office.
    • The applicant must complete and submit Form 1058, Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way.
    • Applications must be made by the property owner or authorized representative representing all parties in interest.
    • The application must be for securing or changing access to the owner's property, not for parking or servicing vehicles on state highway rights of way.
    • No driveway construction may begin in the right of way until a fully executed permit is received and 24-hour notice is given to TxDOT.
    • The driveway must be constructed under the fully executed permit and applicable regulations; TxDOT inspection determines acceptability or required modifications.
    • Drainage impacts on the state highway system must be coordinated with and approved by TxDOT before any local approval where a local agency has permitting authority.
    • A completed Form 1058 is necessary whenever new access driveways are constructed or existing access driveways are modified.

    TxDOT advance notification: 24 hours (After receipt of the fully executed driveway permit and before right-of-way construction begins.)

    “To obtain a permit to construct a driveway or to revise any existing driveway, the applicant should contact the local District TxDOT office. The applicant shall complete and submit to TxDOT a Form 1058, Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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 Concho County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land, buildings, and structures within the City of Eden, Texas.

    • The ordinance establishes zoning regulations and districts, a zoning map, and a board of adjustment.
    • The source identifies Ordinance Number 1991-1 but does not state a later effective or amendment date for the summary.
    “City of Eden zoning ordinance an ordinance amending ordinance no. 1991-1 establishing zoning regulations and districts in accordance with a comprehensive plan”

Still unanswered

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

  • Inspections — Building inspections in Concho County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy in Concho County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and wastewater utility connection requirements in Concho County.
  • Building in a floodplain — Development in floodplain areas of Concho County, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Concho County, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.

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 Concho County, Texas

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

Concho County scores 47/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: workable self-sufficiency basics (25.1″/yr rainfall) and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

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

Concho 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 Concho County OSSF Program (TCEQ authorized agent). 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 Concho County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Concho County is allowed: Unincorporated Concho County: no county rule sets this, because Concho 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 co.concho.tx.us. 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. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Concho County, Texas?

Land in Concho County runs about $2,193 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Concho County?

Concho County gets about 25.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 19.1% of years.

How remote is Concho County?

A typical private-land location has about 3,287 people within 15 miles and 577,840 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Concho compares in Texas

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