Bolthole Index

Kerr County, Texas

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

67Index Score / 100
#58 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Kerr County, Texas does not require a general building permit or certificate of occupancy, and the county's subdivision rules impose no zoning restrictions1. The county still permits floodplain development, driveways on county-maintained roads, public-utility work in county rights-of-way, and subdivision construction2. Every new septic system requires a county permit regardless of tract size3.

At a glance

Building permit
No general county building permit or certificate of occupancy; separate permits cover floodplain work, county-road driveways, utility right-of-way work, and subdivisions12
Zoning
No county zoning in unincorporated Kerr County; incorporated municipalities may administer their own zoning4
Septic permits
Kerr County Environmental Health Department is the authorized agent; every new OSSF needs a permit as of Aug. 7, 2026, regardless of tract size53
Floodplain permit
Required for any structure where any portion touches FEMA Zone A, Zone AE, or Floodway, even for repairs or demolition6
Driveway permit
Required for a new or modified driveway on a Kerr County-maintained road; the county's own pages disagree on the fee ($25 on one page, none on another)78
RV / tiny home / manufactured home
Unrestricted by county zoning, since there is none, though setback, plat, and deed restrictions can still apply910
Well permit
Required through the Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District; contact the district about applicable details and exemptions11
Septic soil difficulty
Only 0.2% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field12

Who to call

Roads & driveways

Kerr County Engineer's Office

Floodplain development permits, driveway permits onto county-maintained roads, utility right-of-way permits, and subdivision construction review

830-896-9046

floodplain@kerrcountytx.gov

3766 TX27, Kerrville, TX 78028

Septic permits

Kerr County Environmental Health Department

OSSF (septic) permits and water-well-permit assistance for Kerr County, as the TCEQ-authorized local agent

830-896-9020

envhealth@env.kerrcountytx.gov

550 Earl Garrett Street, Suite 100, Kerrville, TX 78028

Roads & driveways

Kerr County Road & Bridge Department

Road maintenance and the county's own plain-language FAQ on building permits, zoning, driveways, septic, and where to find plats and deed records

830-257-2993

kcroads@rb.kerrcountytx.gov

3766 TX-27, Kerrville, TX 78028

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 4, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Kerr 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 Kerr County, Texas?

No. Unincorporated Kerr County does not require a general building permit or certificate of occupancy, and its Subdivision Rules and Regulations impose no zoning restrictions113. The County Engineer still permits floodplain development, driveways onto county-maintained roads, public-utility installation in county rights-of-way, and subdivision construction214. Setback restrictions, plat restrictions, and deed restrictions can still limit what you build, while septic systems require separate county permits13. Inside an incorporated municipality, local rules may differ; the City of Kerrville has its own zoning code and adopted building codes415.

Who handles permits in Kerr County, and how do you reach them?

For floodplain development, driveway, and utility right-of-way permits, contact the Kerr County Engineer's Office at 3766 TX-27, Kerrville, TX 78028, 830-896-9046; floodplain permit applications go to floodplain@kerrcountytx.gov16. The county advises calling ahead for an appointment, since staff are often in the field17. For septic and water-well permitting, contact the Kerr County Environmental Health Department at 550 Earl Garrett Street, Suite 100, Kerrville, TX 78028, 830-896-9020, envhealth@env.kerrcountytx.gov18. For general road questions and the county's own plain-language FAQ on permits and zoning, the Road & Bridge Department is at the same 3766 TX-27 address, 830-257-2993, kcroads@rb.kerrcountytx.gov13. If your driveway connects to a state highway instead of a county road, that goes through the Kerrville Area TxDOT office using Form 105819.

Does Kerr County have zoning?

Unincorporated Kerr County has no county zoning, although setback, plat, and deed restrictions may still apply to a particular parcel1. The county regulates subdivisions outside Kerrville and Ingram; those rules are administered by the County Engineer unless the Commissioners' Court expressly waives platting authority20. Unincorporated land has no county zoning rule setting minimum home or lot size, building height, or RV, tiny-home, manufactured-home, or accessory-dwelling occupancy9. Incorporated municipalities may administer their own zoning, including the City of Kerrville, so verify whether the parcel lies inside city limits before relying on the unincorporated-area answer4.

How do septic and well permits work in Kerr County?

Kerr County Environmental Health is the local authorized agent for OSSF permitting, enforcement, and inspections tied to authorizations to construct521. As of August 7, 2026, every new septic system requires a permit regardless of tract size; the change is not retroactive, and qualifying older systems may remain grandfathered3. Off-grid sanitation is therefore not permit-free, and the county source does not establish that every alternative sanitation technology is allowed22. Only 0.2% of Kerr County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so arrange a site evaluation and allow room in the budget for a more complex design12. For a well within the Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District, submit exempt-well registration at least 10 days before drilling; the district decides whether the well is exempt or needs an operating permit11.

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

Unincorporated Kerr County has no county zoning rule restricting RV, tiny-home, or manufactured-home occupancy or setting a minimum dwelling size9. That answer does not override a subdivision plat, deed restriction, setback restriction, floodplain rule, or septic requirement1622. Incorporated municipalities may apply their own zoning, so first confirm whether the parcel is outside city limits4. Before buying, ask the County Engineer whether the proposed placement involves regulated floodplain development, read the parcel's recorded restrictions, and confirm the sanitation plan with Environmental Health1618.

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

First, check the parcel's flood status; work touching Zone A, Zone AE, or Floodway requires a floodplain development permit through the County Engineer166. Second, order a septic site evaluation early because only 0.2% of county soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field12. Third, apply through Environmental Health for the OSSF permit required for every new system183. Fourth, contact the Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District at least 10 days before drilling to register an exempt well or learn whether an operating permit is required11. Fifth, confirm subdivision compliance outside Kerrville or Ingram20. Sixth, obtain a county-road driveway permit from the County Engineer, or use the state process for a state-highway connection719. A public utility also needs a permit for installation or maintenance in a county right-of-way14. Unincorporated Kerr County has no general building-permit or certificate-of-occupancy step beyond the applicable specific permits1.

What to check before you buy land in Kerr County

Water and drought are real factors here: annual precipitation runs about 28.9 inches, but 49.1% of years bring severe drought, nearly half — and with only 0.2% of soils free of septic limitations, both a reliable well and a well-designed septic system deserve serious budget232412. The land is more varied than flat Gulf Coast counties: 79.1% sits at 15% slope or less and 41.3% is wooded, so grading and clearing costs can matter more than in flatter counties2526. Check FEMA flood maps before you buy, since floodplain status drives the county's clearest permit requirement and shapes RV, tiny-home, and manufactured-home rules on that specific parcel6. If the tract is part of a subdivision, confirm it complies with the county's 2023 subdivision and manufactured-home-rental-community regulations, and read the plat and any deed restrictions directly, since the county has no zoning to fall back on2010. Typical property tax runs about 1.1% effectively, with a median bill near $3,115 a year, against a typical home value around $375,304272829.

Watch-outs

  • Kerr County's own pages disagree on the driveway-permit fee: a blog post cites a $25 fee, while the Road & Bridge FAQ says driveway permits require no fee; confirm the current amount with the County Engineer before applying8.
  • No official Kerr County source found for this guide states an owner-builder exemption, a certificate-of-occupancy requirement, or a countywide agricultural exemption from subdivision or development rules; confirm directly with the County Engineer or Environmental Health Department30.
  • Kerr County includes land along the Guadalupe River with significant flash-flood risk; verify FEMA flood-zone status for any specific parcel before assuming the floodplain permit doesn't apply6.

Sources

  1. Kerr County Road & Bridge, quoted and re-checked
  2. Kerr County Engineer, quoted and re-checked
  3. Environmental Health Department On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  4. Kerr County Road & Bridge, quoted and re-checked
  5. Environmental Health Department On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  6. Flood Damage Permitting Guide, quoted and re-checked
  7. Reminder: Work on driveways (new or existing) requires permit, quoted and re-checked
  8. Reminder: Work on driveways (new or existing) requires permit, quoted and re-checked
  9. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  10. Kerr County Road & Bridge, quoted and re-checked
  11. Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District, quoted and re-checked
  12. 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
  13. Kerr County Road & Bridge Department (kerrcountytx.gov)
  14. Kerr County Engineer, quoted and re-checked
  15. Code Information, quoted and re-checked
  16. Kerr County Engineer's Office (kerrcountytx.gov)
  17. Kerr County Engineer, quoted and re-checked
  18. Kerr County Environmental Health Department (kerrcountytx.gov)
  19. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  20. Kerr County Engineer, quoted and re-checked
  21. How to Become a Texas On-Site Sewage Facility (Septic System) Authorized Agent, quoted and re-checked
  22. Environmental Health Department On-Site Sewage Facility, 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. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  27. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data
  30. Exemptions to Electrician Licensing (2026 county census)

Written October 4, 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, Kerr County has no countywide zoning.

RuleKerr CountyBandera CountyReal CountyGillespie CountyKendall CountyKimble CountyMedina County
Building permitLimitedLimitedRequiredLimitedLimitedNot requiredLimited
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Env. Health Dept.County OSSF InspectorReal CountyCounty SanitationCounty DevelopmentKimbleCounty Env. Health Dept.

County locator

Kerr County in Texas

67
County map
Kerr County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Kerr County scores

Seclusion76100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency4496% ev.
Admin Boringness7290% ev.
Durability39100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost72100% 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 →

$375kTypical home
1.1%Property tax
$3,597Land / acre
28.9"Annual rain
49.1% of yrsSevere drought
18.4 / yr (+15.5)Mid-century 100°F days
28 daysMid-century dry spell
2.29" (+10.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.39×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,261Home insurance / yr
2.2% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
1,545People within 30 min
2,925,370People within 2 hr
25,266Radius comparison (15 mi)
48.9People / sq mi
0.1%Federal land
79.1%Land at 15% slope or less
0.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
1,630 acWorkable land screen
41.3%Wooded land
12.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
65.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Kerr 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.

Answers from the rulebook for Kerr County

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

Kerr County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Permitting administered by Kerr County for floodplain development, public utilities in Kerr County rights of way, driveways abutting county-maintained roads, and subdivision construction.

    • The county source identifies these specific permit categories; it does not establish a general residential building-permit requirement.
    • A driveway permit applies when placing a new driveway or modifying an existing driveway on a Kerr County-maintained road.
    • A floodplain determination or permit is required for any work in the floodplain.
    • A fee applies to obtaining a floodplain determination or permit.
    • Subdivisions and manufactured home rental communities outside the city limits of Kerrville or Ingram are subject to Kerr County regulations unless the Commissioners' Court expressly waives platting authority.

    floodplain determination or permit fee: fee applies

    “Permitting is regulated through this department for floodplain development, installation of public utilities in Kerr County rights of way, installation or modification of driveways abutting county-maintained roads, and subdivision construction.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County zoning in unincorporated Kerr County, outside the city limits of Kerrville and Ingram.

    • Kerr County does not require building permits or certificates of occupancy.
    • The county subdivision rules do not impose zoning restrictions.
    • Setback restrictions, plat restrictions, and deed restrictions may still apply.
    • Other agencies, including the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Federal Aviation Administration, may require permitting.
    • Kerr County Subdivision and Manufactured Home Rental Community Regulations were adopted November 28, 2022, took effect January 1, 2023, are administered by the county engineer, and apply outside the city limits of Kerrville or Ingram unless the Commissioners' Court expressly waives platting authority.
    “Kerr County does not require building permits or Certificates of Occupancy. There are no zoning restrictions imposed by the Kerr County Subdivision Rules and Regulations.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Kerr County: no county zoning restrictions are imposed in the unincorporated area, while incorporated municipalities may administer their own zoning ordinances.

    • Kerr County's subdivision rules apply outside the city limits of Kerrville and Ingram unless the Commissioners' Court expressly waives platting authority.
    • The City of Kerrville administers zoning within the City of Kerrville through its zoning code and zoning districts.
    • County setback, plat, deed, floodplain, subdivision, septic, and other applicable rules may still apply where relevant.
    “The City developed the regulations set forth in this Chapter in a comprehensive manner in order to guide the planning and growth of the City of Kerrville, Texas, and to promote and protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the City.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — Kerr County zoning restrictions imposed by the Kerr County Subdivision Rules and Regulations.
      “Kerr County does not require building permits or Certificates of Occupancy. There are no zoning restrictions imposed by the Kerr County Subdivision Rules and Regulations. However, there are other factors such as: set-back restrictions, plat restrictions and deed restrictions. Other agencies may require permitting, as well, among them: the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Federal Aviation Administration.”
  • Zoning districtsNot published (with conditions)

    Zoning districts or zoning restrictions imposed by Kerr County's Subdivision Rules and Regulations in unincorporated Kerr County.

    • The county statement is limited to zoning restrictions imposed by its Subdivision Rules and Regulations.
    • Subdivision regulations apply outside the city limits of Kerrville and Ingram unless the Commissioners' Court expressly waives platting authority.
    • Other factors identified by the county include setback restrictions, plat restrictions, deed restrictions, and permits from other agencies.
    “There are no zoning restrictions imposed by the Kerr County Subdivision Rules and Regulations.”
  • Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning.

    • 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 and septic permitting, inspection, complaint investigation, and enforcement in Kerr County.

    • Kerr County Environmental Health administers the local OSSF program under applicable TCEQ rules and the county OSSF order.
    “Kerr County Environmental Health Department’s duties”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New septic systems in Kerr County, plus alterations, repairs, upgrades, and new installations of existing OSSFs.

    • The county requirement is effective August 7, 2026.
    • The change is not retroactive.
    • Existing systems are grandfathered if installed before the rules adopted September 1, 1989, or if they continue to meet the original state exception requirements.
    • The original state exception requirements stated on the county page include one single-family dwelling on a 10-acre-or-larger tract, all sewage disposed of entirely on that property, and no public-health nuisance or local-groundwater pollution.
    • The permitting fee is applied only to OSSFs being altered, repaired, upgraded, or newly installed.

    effective date: 2026-08-07

    “Effective Aug. 7, 2026, the county now requires a permit for ALL new septic systems, regardless of tract size.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New septic systems and new construction or upgrades of existing OSSFs in Kerr County.
      “Effective Aug. 7, 2026, the county now requires a permit for ALL new septic systems, regardless of tract size.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    OSSFs issued an authorization to construct in Kerr County and inspections connected to the county OSSF program.

    • Inspections are performed under the authorized-agent program and must ensure compliance with TCEQ rules or the approved local order, whichever is more stringent.
    • The cited material does not establish a universal inspection schedule for every existing septic system.
    “They perform site evaluations (when it is part of their job duties), complaint investigations, system evaluations, and 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, or by the Authorized Agent Order approved by the TCEQ, whichever is more stringent.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    On-site septic sanitation used instead of connection to a public wastewater system in Kerr County.

    • New septic systems require a county permit regardless of tract size effective August 7, 2026.
    • Existing systems are not retroactively affected and may be grandfathered under the stated September 1, 1989 and 10-acre/state-exception conditions.
    • The source does not establish that every alternative sanitation technology is allowed.

    effective date: 2026-08-07

    “This update ensures that new construction and/or an upgrade of an existing OSSF will require a permit regardless of tract size.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Groundwater wells in Kerr County within the Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District.

    • Exempt wells require a signed registration form submitted at least 10 days before drilling, including a fee, survey, and proof of ownership.
    • The district determines whether a proposed well qualifies for an exemption or requires a permit.
    • Exempt household/domestic/livestock wells remain subject to district registration and construction rules.
    • A well used for non-domestic/livestock purposes or exceeding 25,000 gallons per day or 17.36 gallons per minute open discharge becomes non-exempt and requires an operating permit.
    • Additional tract-size, public-water-system-area, spacing, and OSSF setback rules apply.

    exempt-well registration lead time: >= 10 days · exempt-well production threshold: > 25000 gallons per day (Exceeding this threshold changes the well to non-exempt/permitted status) · exempt-well open-discharge threshold: > 17.36 gallons per minute (Exceeding this threshold changes the well to non-exempt/permitted status)

    “The District staff will determine if it meets the exemptions or requires a permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Water wells drilled in Kerr County within the Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District jurisdiction.
      “Permits are required to drill a water well. Contact Headwaters Groundwater Conservation District for more details.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Installation of public utilities in Kerr County rights-of-way; this claim does not establish a general requirement that every private parcel connect to public water or sewer.

    • A utility installation permit is required when a public utility installs a new utility or performs maintenance on an existing utility in a Kerr County right-of-way.
    • The cited page does not establish a universal residential water or sewer connection mandate.
    “If you are a public utility, and you wish to install a new utility or perform maintenance on an existing utility, you will need a utility installation permit (the application can be downloaded below).”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivisions and manufactured home rental communities in Kerr County outside the city limits of Kerrville and Ingram.

    • The regulations were adopted by the Kerr County Commissioners' Court on November 28, 2022.
    • The regulations went into effect January 1, 2023.
    • The rules are administered by the county engineer.
    • All subdivisions outside the city limits of Kerrville or Ingram are subject to the rules unless the Commissioners' Court expressly waives platting authority.
    • All manufactured home rental communities outside the city limits of Kerrville or Ingram are subject to the rules.

    approval date: 2022-11-28 · effective date: 2023-01-01

    “Kerr County Subdivision and Manufactured Home Rental Community Regulations were adopted by the Kerr County Commissioners' Court on Nov. 28, 2022, and went into effect Jan. 1, 2023. They are administered by the county engineer. All subdivisions situated in the County and outside of the city limits of the City of Kerrville or Ingram are subject to these rules, unless the Kerr County Commissioners' Court expressly waives platting authority. All manufactured home rental communities situated in the county and outside the city limits of the City of Kerrville or Ingram are subject to these rules.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — All subdivisions in Kerr County outside the city limits of Kerrville or Ingram.
      “Kerr County Subdivision and Manufactured Home Rental Community Regulations were adopted by the Kerr County Commissioners' Court on Nov. 28, 2022, and went into effect Jan. 1, 2023. They are administered by the county engineer. All subdivisions situated in the County and outside of the city limits of the City of Kerrville or Ingram are subject to these rules, unless the Kerr County Commissioners' Court expressly waives platting authority.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Installation of a new driveway or modification of an existing driveway along a Kerr County-maintained road within the right-of-way.

    • Applies only to driveways along roads maintained by Kerr County under Court Order No. 36683.
    • For privately maintained roads, the county directs residents and builders to the relevant homeowners' association.
    • For state-highway frontage, the county directs applicants to the Kerrville Area TxDOT office.
    “Kerr County, Texas, requires permits for those looking to install a new driveway or modify an existing one situated along a county-maintained road within the right-of-way, said Kerr County Engineer Charlie Hastings, P.E., C.F.M.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Structures in unincorporated Kerr County outside Ingram and Kerrville when any portion touches FEMA Zone A, Zone AE, or Floodway.

    • The permit is required even for repairs or demolition when any portion of the structure touches Zone A, AE, or Floodway.
    • Applicants must obtain a completed FEMA Form FF-206-FY-22-152 (2023 edition) Elevation Certificate from a licensed professional surveyor and submit it with the Floodplain Development Permit Application to floodplain@kerrcountytx.gov.
    • If no portion touches Zone A, AE, or Floodway, the county guide states that a permit is not required.
    • The guide states there is no cost for disaster-related floodplain permit applications because of Commissioners' Court relief.
    • Property owners in Ingram or Kerrville must contact their respective municipal floodplain administrator.
    “If ANY portion of structure touches Zone A, AE, or Floodway then a PERMIT is required (even for repairs or demolition.) GO TO STEP 2.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    New or modified driveways situated along Kerr County-maintained roads within the right-of-way.

    • The cited county news item says the permits apply only to driveways along county-maintained roads.
    • The county Road & Bridge FAQ separately states that driveway permits have no fee; the official sources conflict, so the current payable amount should be confirmed with the County Engineer.
    • For driveways along privately maintained roads, the county directs residents and builders to their homeowners' association; for state-highway driveways, it directs them to the Kerrville Area TxDOT office.

    driveway permit fee: 25 USD (The county's Road & Bridge FAQ separately states '(No fee required).')

    “The permit fee is nominal at $25 and can be downloaded by clicking HERE.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County-administered floodplain development, utility right-of-way, driveway, and subdivision-construction permits outside incorporated municipal administration.

    • The county advises making an appointment with the County Engineer before visiting because staff may be in the field.
    • For floodplain determinations or permits, the county directs applicants to make an appointment and complete the linked floodplain permit application before arrival.
    • Incorporated Ingram and Kerrville administer their own floodplain matters.
    “Permitting is regulated through this department for floodplain development, installation of public utilities in Kerr County rights of way, installation or modification of driveways abutting county-maintained roads, and subdivision construction.”

Texas rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

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

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

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building construction within the City of Kerrville.

    • The official City of Kerrville page lists adoption of the 2018 International Residential Code, 2018 International Building Code, 2018 IEBC, 2017 NEC, 2018 IPC, 2018 IFGC, 2018 IMC, 2018 IECC, 2018 ISPSC, and 2018 International Fire Code.
    • This municipal adoption does not establish a countywide Kerr County building-code adoption or applicability in unincorporated areas.

    International Residential Code edition: 2018 · International Building Code edition: 2018 · National Electrical Code edition: 2017

    “Adoption: 2018 International Residential Code”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Property within the City of Kerrville, Kerr County, Texas.

    • The City of Kerrville's zoning code regulates land uses and development within the city; this claim does not establish zoning for unincorporated Kerr County or other municipalities.
    “The City developed the regulations set forth in this Chapter in a comprehensive manner in order to guide the planning and growth of the City of Kerrville, Texas”

Still unanswered

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

  • Inspections — Building inspections for residential construction in unincorporated Kerr County.
  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy for residential buildings in unincorporated Kerr County.
  • Agricultural exemption — Potential agricultural-use or tract-size exceptions to Kerr County subdivision platting requirements.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in unincorporated Kerr County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Water rights & wells in Kerr County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Texas’s water agency.

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

Household wellExempt up to a limit

Texas groundwater is governed by the rule of capture; a Groundwater Conservation District must exempt qualifying domestic/livestock wells and may not restrict their production, but well registration and spacing rules can still apply and the exemption does not cover wells serving a platted subdivision.

Limit: Domestic/livestock well exempt from GCD production permitting if on a tract >10 acres AND incapable of producing >25,000 gal/day (Tex. Water Code §36.117)

Texas Water Code §36.117 / TWDB ↗
  • Hill Country Priority Groundwater Management Areapartial of county

    TCEQ PGMA identifying existing or anticipated critical groundwater problems; drives GCD coverage and heightened management. Domestic/livestock wells remain exempt from GCD permits but spacing/registration may apply.

    TCEQ — Priority Groundwater Management Areas ↗

Hybrid state (appropriation + riparian). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Texas state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Kerr County, Texas

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

Kerr County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 1,545 people within a 30-minute drive and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

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

Kerr County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Kerr County Environmental Health Department (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 Kerr County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Kerr County is allowed: Unincorporated Kerr County: no county rule sets this, because Kerr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). Kerr County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning. 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 Kerr County, Texas?

Land in Kerr County runs about $3,597 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Kerr County?

Kerr County gets about 28.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 49.1% of years. On water rights, Kerr County lies in the Hill Country Priority Groundwater Management Area — TCEQ PGMA identifying existing or anticipated critical groundwater problems; drives GCD coverage and heightened management. Domestic/livestock wells remain exempt from GCD permits but spacing/registration may apply..

How remote is Kerr County?

A representative private-land location has about 1,545 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,925,370 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 Kerr compares in Texas

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