Bolthole Index

Dawson County, Texas

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Dawson County, Texas

41Index Score / 100
#197 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Dawson County, Texas does not require a building permit for a home, because the county's official site lists no building or permitting department1. There is no county zoning ordinance, so the county sets no rule on setbacks, minimum home size, or RV and tiny-home living, though the City of Lamesa zones inside its limits234. Septic permits for the whole county, Lamesa included, go through the South Plains Public Health District's Lamesa Clinic56.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required in unincorporated Dawson County1
Zoning
No county zoning ordinance; the City of Lamesa zones inside city limits24
Septic permit
Required; apply through the South Plains Public Health District57
RV / tiny home living
Unrestricted by county zoning (no zoning authority)3
Owner-builder exemption
You can install your own OSSF if the permitting authority allows it8
10-acre septic exemption
Available for a single-family dwelling meeting all TCEQ conditions7
Driveway onto a state highway
Requires TxDOT Form 1058, max 24 ft wide9
Water well
New wells must be registered with the Mesa Underground Water Conservation District before drilling10

Who to call

Septic permits

South Plains Public Health District – Lamesa Clinic (Environmental Services)

Environmental health services for Dawson County: the septic (OSSF) application is returned to this district for authorization, and it inspects permitted OSSFs, investigates septic complaints and enforces OSSF rules

806-872-5863

503 S. 1st Street, Lamesa, TX 79331

Also useful

Dawson County Courthouse (Commissioners Court / County Judge)

County governance; the office to confirm floodplain administration, subdivision platting, and whether any building or fire code has been adopted

(806)-329-3313

400 S 1st Street, Lamesa, Texas 79331 (mailing: P.O. Box 1268, Lamesa, Texas 79331-1268)

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 Dawson County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.

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

Dawson County's official website lists only elected offices and courthouse departments, no building or permitting department, and Texas counties generally cannot require structural building permits in unincorporated areas1. Texas law lets a county adopt residential building standards only by resolution or order, and no source we found shows whether Dawson County has done so11. If you plan to build, ask the Dawson County Commissioners Court to be sure12. Inside the City of Lamesa, the city council has zoning power under its charter, so ask the city about building and zoning rules there4. Septic permits stay with the district either way5.

Who handles septic and other permits in Dawson County, and how do you reach them?

There is no building department to call in Dawson County; the county's own site lists only elected offices like the County Judge, Commissioners Court, County Clerk and Sheriff1. Septic permits go through the South Plains Public Health District's Lamesa Clinic at 806-872-5863: its application lists Dawson County and tells applicants to return it to the district and receive authorization before construction56. TCEQ's records also list Dawson County as the authorized agent for the county, so ask the clinic to confirm who signs the permit13. For floodplain questions and any building or fire code the county may have adopted, the Dawson County Courthouse at (806)-329-3313 is where to start12.

Does Dawson County have zoning?

Unincorporated Dawson County has no zoning ordinance2. Texas law lets counties zone only in a few narrowly defined situations, and Dawson County is not among them14. The county therefore sets no minimum home size, no setbacks, no lot-coverage limit and no zoning districts, and it does not restrict accessory dwellings, RVs, tiny homes, manufactured homes or temporary camping on unincorporated land3. The City of Lamesa is the exception: its charter gives the city council full power to zone the city, so rules inside city limits are Lamesa's, not the county's4. County zoning does not remove the septic permit or the state-highway driveway permit, which still apply59.

How do septic permits work in Dawson County?

Every on-site sewage facility (OSSF) in Texas needs a permit before it is built, altered, extended or repaired15. In Dawson County the South Plains Public Health District's application is returned to the district for authorization before construction, and the owner authorizes district representatives to enter for lot evaluation and inspection516. The Lamesa Clinic also investigates septic complaints and enforces OSSF rules up to and including prosecution17. About 84.2% of Dawson County's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so a standard system is realistic on many parcels, though a site evaluation still applies18. A 10-acre exemption from permitting exists only if a licensed site evaluator confirms the tract, effluent and setbacks all meet TCEQ's conditions, including keeping the OSSF at least 100 feet from every property line and limiting the tract to one single-family dwelling15.

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

Dawson County's lack of zoning authority means the county itself does not restrict RV, manufactured-home or tiny-home occupancy on unincorporated land3. That does not exempt you from Texas's septic rules: any wastewater from an RV, tiny home or off-grid dwelling still needs a permitted OSSF or holding tank, and holding tanks and other off-grid sanitation remain subject to the same statewide OSSF permitting and construction standards19. Confirm with the South Plains Public Health District's Lamesa Clinic how your setup will be permitted before you move a camper or tiny home onto raw land6. Inside the City of Lamesa, city zoning applies instead of the county's no-zoning answer4.

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

  1. Confirm your parcel is in unincorporated Dawson County rather than inside Lamesa or another city, since the City of Lamesa zones and sets its own rules inside city limits4.
  2. Know that no county building permit is required for the residence itself in unincorporated Dawson County1.
  3. Contact the South Plains Public Health District's Lamesa Clinic for the septic application before you finalize a house site, since your septic layout will constrain where the house and driveway can sit56.
  4. If you are installing your own OSSF as the owner, confirm the permitting authority allows owner installation, since Texas only permits this if the local program allows it and you meet the ownership and no-sale conditions20.
  5. If your driveway will connect to a state highway, contact the local TxDOT district office and file Form 1058 before building it; the driveway cannot exceed 24 feet wide except for permitted radii9.
  6. Check with the Dawson County Courthouse on floodplain rules and any adopted fire or building code before you start construction12.
  7. If you plan a water well, register it with the Mesa Underground Water Conservation District before drilling10.

What to check before you buy land in Dawson County

Septic siting is promising: about 84.2% of Dawson County's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, and about 98.2% of the county's land sits at 15% slope or less, so buildable, septic-friendly ground is common1821. Water is the bigger question: the county has seen severe drought in about 35.6% of recent years, so plan carefully for a well or rural water supply; new wells must be registered with the Mesa Underground Water Conservation District before drilling2210. Farmland here has recently averaged about $1,359 an acre and a typical home is valued around $111,7242324. Property taxes run about 1.7% of value, with a median bill near $1,5672526. Floodplain rules and any subdivision or platting requirements for unincorporated Dawson County were not confirmed on the county's official site, so ask the Dawson County Courthouse directly if your parcel is near a floodplain or you plan to split a tract12.

Watch-outs

  • Whether Dawson County has adopted a residential building-code resolution under state law is unconfirmed; call the Commissioners Court before you assume no inspection will ever apply1112.
  • Floodplain development rules for unincorporated Dawson County were not confirmable on the county's official site; ask the Dawson County Courthouse directly if your parcel is near a floodplain12.
  • Texas's authorized-agent records list Dawson County as the OSSF agent while the district's application says to return it to the South Plains Public Health District; confirm with the Lamesa Clinic who signs the permit before you apply135.
  • Inside the City of Lamesa, city zoning applies; the county's no-zoning answer covers unincorporated land only4.

Sources

  1. Dawson County TX - Official Website (2026 county census)
  2. Dawson County TX - Official Website (2026 county census)
  3. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  4. Home Rule Charter, City of Lamesa, quoted and re-checked
  5. On-Site Sewage Facility Application and Authorization to Construct, quoted and re-checked
  6. South Plains Public Health District – Lamesa Clinic (Environmental Services) (southplainshealth.org)
  7. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  8. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System (2026 county census)
  9. General Access Driveway Policy, quoted and re-checked
  10. Water Well Permits, quoted and re-checked
  11. Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 233, quoted and re-checked
  12. Dawson County Courthouse (Commissioners Court / County Judge) (co.dawson.tx.us)
  13. TCEQ OSSF Authorized Agent search (OARS) (2026 county census)
  14. Local Government Code Chapter 231, County Zoning Authority (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. On-Site Sewage Facility Application and Authorization to Construct, quoted and re-checked
  17. southplainshealth.org, quoted and re-checked
  18. 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
  19. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  20. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  21. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  22. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  23. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data
  24. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data
  25. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  26. 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.

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Dawson County has no countywide zoning.

RuleDawson CountyBorden CountyMartin CountyLynn CountyTerry CountyGaines CountyHoward County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredRequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsDawson CountyTCEQCounty OSSF ProgramLynn CountySouth Plains Public Health DistrictGaines CountyCounty OSSF Office

County locator

Dawson County in Texas

41
County map
Dawson County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Dawson County scores

Seclusion75100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1396% ev.
Admin Boringness87100% ev.
Durability35100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% ev.

Evidence strength: 99%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$112kTypical home
1.7%Property tax
$1,359Land / acre
17.2"Annual rain
35.6% of yrsSevere drought
42.9 / yr (+30)Mid-century 100°F days
35.4 daysMid-century dry spell
1.45" (+5.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.23×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,630Home insurance / yr
-1.3% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
8,876People within 30 min
813,738People within 2 hr
11,689Radius comparison (15 mi)
13.3People / sq mi
0%Federal land
98.2%Land at 15% slope or less
84.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
484,023 acWorkable land screen
0.2%Wooded land
0.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62.7°FAvg temp

Scout Dawson County

Camp here before you commitBook a few nights nearby on Hipcamp →Already own land here?Earn money hosting campers — get $100 when you become a Hipcamp host →

Some links are affiliate or referral links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Search live inventory elsewhere, then cost and vet each candidate here. No copied listings, account, or paid data feed.

View your full hunt →
ZillowLand & lotsRealtor.comLand listingsLandSearchRural & vacant land

Each button opens a current land search for Dawson County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.

Working estimate

—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—

A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.

Cities and towns in Dawson 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: Los Ybanez

Answers from the rulebook for Dawson County

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

Dawson County rules

  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 septicLocal

    OSSF permitting and authorization to construct for Dawson County, as identified on the South Plains Public Health District application.

    • The application form lists Dawson among the counties served.
    • The form directs applicants to return the application to the South Plains Public Health District and receive authorization before construction.
    • The exact current OARS record distinguishing South Plains Public Health District from TCEQ Region 7 was not directly retrievable.
    “County: Gaines□ Yoakum□ Terry□ Dawson□ Lynn□ [...] RETURN THIS APPLICATION TO THE SOUTH PLAINS PUBLIC HEALTH DISTRICT.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Lot evaluation and inspection of OSSFs in Dawson County under the South Plains Public Health District application process.

    • The property owner or agent authorizes SPPHD designated representatives to enter the private property for lot evaluation and OSSF inspection.
    • The application form separately provides a date-of-inspection field and instructs applicants to contact SPPHD to schedule an inspection.
    “THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF DRAINFIELDS THAT ARE APPROVED FOR INSTALLATION IN OUR DISTRICT. ALL MUST BE INSTALLED CORRECTLY AND INSPECTED BEFORE THEY ARE COVERED.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Inspection and enforcement services for properly permitted and installed OSSFs in Dawson County served by the South Plains Public Health District.
      “Inspection of properly permitted and installed On-Site Sewage Facilities. Investigation of septic system complaints. Enforcement of On-Site Sewage Facility Rules up to and including prosecution of violators.”
  • Well permitRequired

    New wells within the Mesa Underground Water Conservation District in Dawson County, Texas.

    • All new wells must be registered before drilling, except leachate wells, monitoring wells, and dewatering wells.
    • The District Staff reviews the registration and preliminarily determines whether Rule 10.5 exclusions or exceptions apply.
    • If the well is determined to be excluded or exempt, drilling may begin immediately upon receiving the approved registration.
    • A $100 deposit is required for each well registration.
    • The deposit is refunded if the application is denied; if the application is granted, upon receipt of a correctly completed TDLR Form 001WWD driller's log or electronic posting of the driller's log; or if the location is abandoned without drilling or is a dry hole and the permit is returned and marked accordingly.
    • The listed deposit-refund requirements must be met within eight months from the application date or the deposit becomes District property.
    • Permit requirements do not apply to windmills serving wells with a casing diameter of five inches nominal or less, monitoring wells, leachate wells, or dewatering wells.
    • A well log is required for an exempt well.

    registration deposit: 100 USD (For each well registration.) · deposit-refund deadline: 8 months from application date (Failure to meet the listed requirements makes the deposit District property.)

    “It is violation of these rules for a well owner, well operator, or water well driller to drill any well unless the “well registration/application for a water well permit” has been previously filed with the District Staff.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county zoning department or ordinance is published; Texas counties have no zoning authority over unincorporated land.

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

Texas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    New residential construction covered by Local Government Code Chapter 233, Subchapter F, in an unincorporated area of a qualifying county that has adopted the required resolution or order.

    • Subchapter F applies only to a county that has adopted a resolution or order requiring its application and that is located within 50 miles of an international border or has a population of more than 100.
    • The statute does not require prior county approval before new residential construction begins.
    • This rule does not establish whether Dawson County adopted the required resolution or order.
    “This subchapter applies only to a county that has adopted a resolution or order requiring the application of the provisions of this subchapter and that: (1) is located within 50 miles of an international border; or (2) has a population of more than 100. [...] This subchapter may not be construed to: (1) require prior approval by the county before the beginning of new residential construction;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Industrialized housing or buildings installed in Texas, including purchasers or lessees acquiring a unit for their own or their company’s use.
      “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 exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    An owner installing an on-site sewage facility for a single-family dwelling in Dawson County or elsewhere in Texas

    • The permitting authority must allow owner installation under its local requirements.
    • The OSSF must be for a single-family dwelling that the owner owns.
    • The owner must also own the property.
    • No part of the property may be developed for sale or lease.
    • The owner must have the knowledge, skills, and equipment to perform the work.
    • All permitting, construction, and maintenance requirements of the permitting authority must be met.
    • If another person assists with installation, that person must be a licensed installer, except for a licensed electrician installing electrical components or a person delivering and setting treatment or pump tanks into an excavation.
    • Some systems may have to be installed by a factory representative.
    “This depends on whether the permitting authority allows this in their local requirements. Otherwise yes”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — An individual who builds new residential construction covered by Local Government Code Chapter 233, Subchapter F, or acts as the individual's own contractor, and intends to use the residence as the individual's primary residence.
      “An individual who fails to provide proper notice in accordance with Sections 233.154(b) and (c) is not subject to a penalty under this subsection if: (1) the new residential construction is built by the individual or the individual acts as the individual's own contractor; and (2) the individual intends to use the residence as the individual's primary residence.”
    • Conditional — An owner performing electrical, plumbing, or air-conditioning and refrigeration work on the owner's own residence or homestead 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 as electricians.”
    • 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 constructed in Dawson County under the Texas Industrialized Housing and Buildings Program.

    • The Texas Industrialized Building Code Council approved later editions on November 16, 2023, and the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation adopted the rules on May 21, 2024.
    • The codes became effective July 1, 2024.
    • The listed codes apply as amended in 16 Texas Administrative Code §70.101.
    • The adopted editions are the 2021 International Building Code, 2021 International Residential Code, 2021 International Fuel Gas Code, 2021 International Mechanical Code, 2021 International Plumbing Code, 2015 International Energy Conservation Code, 2020 National Electrical Code, and 2021 International Existing Building Code for alterations of portable industrialized buildings.
    • All construction begun on or after July 1, 2024, must comply with the new code editions and approved design packages.
    • Manufacturers may transition before July 1, 2024 only after written notice to the Department and compliance with the transition requirements.
    • Construction begun under prior approved plans before July 1, 2024, or before a manufacturer's effective transition date, had to be completed, inspected, and labeled by December 31, 2024, or the unit would not be eligible for a Texas decal.
    • This source establishes a statewide code for industrialized buildings, not a general Dawson County building code for all construction.

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

    “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:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components governed by the Texas Industrialized Housing and Buildings program.
      “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:”
    • 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:”
  • InspectionsRequired

    New residential construction covered by Local Government Code Chapter 233, Subchapter F, in a qualifying county that adopted the required resolution or order.

    • For construction on a vacant lot, at least three inspections are required: foundation before concrete placement, framing and mechanical systems before drywall or other interior wall covering, and completion.
    • For an addition, inspections are performed as necessary based on the project's scope.
    • The builder must contract with one of the inspector categories listed in Section 233.154(a)(3).
    • Subchapter F applicability to Dawson County was not established.

    minimum inspections for vacant-lot construction: >= 3 inspections (additions are inspected as necessary based on scope of work)

    “A person who builds new residential construction described by Section 233.153 shall have the construction inspected to ensure building code compliance in accordance with this section as follows: (1) for new residential construction on a vacant lot, a minimum of three inspections must be performed during the construction project to ensure code compliance”
  • 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 on-site sewage facility, including septic systems, in Dawson County under Texas state OSSF requirements.
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. Always check with your local permitting authority. Local permitting programs can be more stringent than State minimums.”
    • 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”:”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid OSSF sanitation systems in Dawson County, including single-family systems potentially qualifying for the state 10-acre permitting exemption.

    • The exemption applies only if the OSSF complies with all other 30 TAC Chapter 285 planning, construction, and installation requirements.
    • The property must receive a site evaluation from a TCEQ-licensed Site Evaluator or PE.
    • The system must serve a single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres, not cause a nuisance or pollute groundwater, keep all parts at least 100 feet from the property line, dispose of effluent on the property, and serve the only dwelling on the tract.
    • The local permitting authority must be consulted to confirm whether a permit is required.

    minimum tract size: >= 10 acres (all listed TCEQ exemption conditions apply) · minimum property-line distance: >= 100 feet (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 — 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.”
    • Limited — Off-grid wastewater sanitation through an OSSF in Texas.
      “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”:”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Texas agricultural sales-tax exemptions relevant to qualifying farm or ranch machinery, equipment, and specified agricultural production uses in Dawson County.

    • The farm or ranch must use qualifying machinery or equipment exclusively in producing food for human consumption, grass, feed for animal life, or other agricultural products to be sold in the regular course of business.
    • The exemption does not apply to improvements to realty or taxable services.
    • A qualifying agricultural exemption certificate and ag/timber number may be required for otherwise taxable purchases.

    qualifying use: exclusive use on a farm or ranch for specified agricultural production (Does not apply to improvements to realty or taxable services)

    “Machinery and equipment exclusively used or employed on a farm or ranch in the building or maintaining of roads or water facilities or in producing food for human consumption, grass, feed for animal life or other agricultural products to be sold in the regular course of business qualifies for exemption. [...] The agricultural exemption does not apply to improvements to realty or taxable services.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New or modified access driveways connecting property to a Texas state highway right of way.

    • A local public agency may receive access driveway permitting authority for state highways, but TxDOT approval remains required for drainage impacts on the state highway system before local approval.
    • No access driveway is permitted within a flared or widened right-of-way section at an intersection of a state highway with another highway, road, or street.
    • All entrances and exits, including radii, must be confined within the permittee's property frontage.
    • One-way 45-to-90-degree driveways are permitted for connections to one-way frontage roads or lane-divided highways; otherwise the driveway angle must be 75 to 90 degrees.
    • ADAAG and Texas Accessibility Standards apply.

    private residential driveway maximum width: <= 24 feet (Except as increased by permissible radii.) · driveway-to-pavement radius: >= 15 feet

    “A driveway must be constructed in accordance with a fully executed driveway permit”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Access driveways from property in Dawson County onto state highways.
      “The radius connecting the driveway to the highway pavement shall not be less than 15 feet.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Construction of a new driveway or revision of an existing driveway on state highway right of way, including in Dawson 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.
    • The application must include the proposed work description, applicant name, mailing address, telephone number, and proposed driveway location.
    • The application must be made by the property owner or an 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 on the right of way until a fully executed permit is received and the applicant gives TxDOT 24-hour notification.
    • The driveway must comply with the executed permit and applicable regulations and must pass TxDOT inspection.
    • If a local public agency has access driveway permitting authority, TxDOT approval is still required for drainage impacts before local approval.
    • Driveway geometrics, utilities, environmental requirements, wetlands considerations when appropriate, ADAAG, TAS, and applicable state and federal laws, rules, and regulations must be considered.

    advance notification to TxDOT: 24 hours · required application form: Form 1058, Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way · required application information: description of proposed work; applicant name; mailing address; telephone number; proposed driveway location

    “To obtain a permit to construct a driveway or to revise any existing driveway, the applicant should contact the local District TxDOT office.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Constructing a new driveway or revising an existing driveway on the right of way of a Texas state highway.
      “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 Dawson County

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

  • Local zoningPresent

    The City of Lamesa, which is located in Dawson County, Texas.

    • The cited charter establishes municipal authority to zone and to enact implementing ordinances, rules, and regulations.
    • The excerpt establishes zoning authority but does not identify the current zoning districts, dimensional standards, map, or permit process.
    “The city council shall have full power and authority to zone the city of Lamesa and to pass all necessary ordinances, rules and regulations governing the same under and by virtue of the authority given to cities and legislative bodies thereof by Sections “A” to “H” of Article 1011 of the 1925 Revised Civil Statutes of Texas, as amended, being Acts of 1927 40th Legislature, page 424, Chapter 283, and all amendments thereto and amendments which may hereafter be made thereto.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — Zoning authority and regulations within the City of Lamesa, an incorporated municipality in Dawson County, Texas.
      “Sec. 27. Zoning. The city council shall have full power and authority to zone the city of Lamesa and to pass all necessary ordinances, rules and regulations governing the same under and by virtue of the authority given to cities and legislative bodies thereof by Sections “A” to “H” of Article 1011 of the 1925 Revised Civil Statutes of Texas, as amended, being Acts of 1927 40th Legislature, page 424, Chapter 283, and all amendments thereto and amendments which may hereafter be made thereto.”

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 or equivalent certificates for buildings in unincorporated Dawson County.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and wastewater utility-connection requirements in Dawson County, Texas.
  • Subdividing land — Subdivision and platting of land in unincorporated Dawson County, Texas.
  • Building in a floodplain — Development in floodplain areas of Dawson County, Texas.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Dawson County, Texas.
1 more unanswered
  • Permit fees

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 Dawson County, Texas

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

Dawson County scores 41/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (17.2″/yr rainfall) and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

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

Dawson 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 Dawson County (TCEQ authorized agent for on-site sewage). 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 Dawson County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Dawson County is allowed: Unincorporated Dawson County: no county rule sets this, because Dawson 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.dawson.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 Dawson County, Texas?

Land in Dawson County runs about $1,359 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Dawson County?

Dawson County gets about 17.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 35.6% of years.

How remote is Dawson County?

A representative private-land location has about 8,876 people within a 30-minute drive and 813,738 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 Dawson compares in Texas

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