Bolthole Index

McCulloch County, Texas

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

67Index Score / 100
#59 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated McCulloch County, Texas does not require a general building permit, and McCulloch County imposes no zoning requirements12. Industrialized or modular housing is a notable exception: Texas building codes govern those units, and an owner buying one for personal use may need a state installation permit34. McCulloch County separately requires septic, culvert and right-of-way permit applications5.

At a glance

Building permit
No general county permit in unincorporated areas; state rules still apply to industrialized or modular construction13
Zoning
No zoning requirements at this time2
Septic (OSSF) permit
Apply through McCulloch County before OSSF work proceeds6
Water well
Regulated by the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District; a Notice of Intent to Drill is required for every well7
Subdividing land
Plat approval generally applies, but qualifying agricultural divisions can be excluded from the county's subdivision definition89
Setbacks / lot coverage / height
None set by county zoning in unincorporated areas10
RV / tiny home / manufactured home
No county zoning restriction on occupancy10
Subdivision road access
New subdivisions need a TxDOT sign-off approving road access11

Who to call

Septic permits

McCulloch County - Septic, Culvert and Right-of-Way Permits

Septic (OSSF), culvert and right-of-way permit applications, and subdivision plat submissions to the Commissioners Court, for unincorporated McCulloch County

(325) 597-0733

199 Courthouse Square, Brady, TX 76825

Online permits →

Well permits

Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1

Water well permitting, Notices of Intent to Drill, and well-spacing/production rules for the McCulloch County portion of the district

(325) 597-2785

111 East Main Street, Brady, TX 76825

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 5, 2026.

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

No general building permit is required in unincorporated McCulloch County1. The county instead identifies septic, culvert and right-of-way permits5. Industrialized housing and buildings are different from ordinary site-built construction: units begun on or after July 1, 2024 must comply with the Texas industrialized-building code editions and approved design packages3. A buyer or lessee acquiring an industrialized unit for personal or company use may file for a state installation permit instead of registering as an industrialized builder4. Texas also has limited state licensing exemptions for owners doing electrical, plumbing, or air-conditioning work on their own residence or homestead, but those exemptions are not blanket permission for every trade12. City rules remain separate, including Brady's zoning code within city limits13.

Who handles septic, wells and permits in McCulloch County?

McCulloch County has no building department, so land buyers work with two main offices. Septic (OSSF), culvert and right-of-way permit applications, along with subdivision plat submissions to the Commissioners Court, all go through the county at the courthouse in Brady14. Water wells are handled separately: the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1 covers McCulloch County and requires a Notice of Intent to Drill before any well is started, whether or not the well ends up exempt from permitting15.

Does McCulloch County have zoning?

No. McCulloch County states that it has no zoning requirements, and it publishes no zoning districts for unincorporated land216. That absence of county zoning leaves minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setbacks, lot coverage, building height, accessory dwellings, RV occupancy, temporary camping, tiny-home occupancy and manufactured-home occupancy unrestricted at the county level10. The county's statement does not determine municipal zoning; the City of Brady separately administers a zoning code and design-review ordinances within city limits213. Subdivision regulations remain separate from zoning, so dividing unincorporated land can still require county review8.

How do septic permits work in McCulloch County?

Apply to McCulloch County for an OSSF permit before septic work proceeds; the county publishes the local application intake and requires entities to apply617. TCEQ serves only as the fallback permitting authority where no local jurisdiction has been authorized, while local programs may be stricter than state minimums18. Take soil testing seriously: only 3.1% of McCulloch County soils have no severe limits for a conventional drain field, so confirm the workable system and location before buying19. A qualifying single-family tract of at least 10 acres may use the state exemption only after a site evaluation and only if every OSSF part is at least 100 feet from a property line, effluent stays onsite, no nuisance or groundwater pollution results, and no other dwelling is on the tract20. A platted subdivision also needs the required OSSF compliance certificate before its plat goes to Commissioners Court21.

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

As far as county zoning is concerned, yes. Because unincorporated McCulloch County has no zoning ordinance, RV occupancy, temporary camping, tiny-home occupancy and manufactured-home occupancy are unrestricted at the county level10. A factory-built tiny home may still qualify as industrialized housing subject to Texas codes and the state installation-permit process; the county's lack of zoning does not waive those construction rules34. Sanitation and water rules also apply: OSSF work generally requires a county septic application unless a state exemption applies620. In a regulated subdivision, a structure cannot be occupied until it connects to an approved well, a TCEQ-approved public water system or another water supply approved by Commissioners Court22.

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

  1. Determine whether the home is site-built or industrialized. For an industrialized or modular unit, confirm the Texas code and installation-permit path before ordering it34.
  2. Have the soil evaluated and apply to McCulloch County for an OSSF permit, unless the county confirms that the state exemption applies620.
  3. File a Notice of Intent to Drill with the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District before well work, then confirm whether the well needs a full permit7.
  4. If you are creating a lot, ask whether county plat review applies. A qualifying agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management or timber-production division can be excluded when no land is laid out for shared or public-use areas9.
  5. When plat review applies, submit the plat to Commissioners Court and obtain the required road-access sign-off811. A revision of an existing unincorporated subdivision plat carries published fees of $50 per plat, $5 for records preservation, $1 for courthouse security and $500 for a water-availability study unless that study fee is waived by variance; notice costs may be added23.
  6. Apply to the county for any needed culvert or right-of-way permit; a culvert applicant must contact the commissioner for the correct precinct5. A driveway connecting to a state highway needs the state access-permit process before construction24.

What to check before you buy land in McCulloch County

Arrange a site evaluation before going under contract: only 3.1% of county soils have no severe limits for a conventional drain field, so septic feasibility can change the usable building area and project cost19. Confirm well options with the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District because every well needs a Notice of Intent to Drill, even if it is permit-exempt7. The nearest city of 100,000 or more is about 86 miles from the county center, population density is about 7 people per square mile, and severe drought occurs in about 25.7% of years252627. The effective property-tax rate is about 1.4%, with a median annual bill around $1,4352829. Typical home value is about $162,236, while farmland averages about $2,129 an acre3031.

Watch-outs

  • A modular or industrialized home is not outside building-code oversight merely because McCulloch County lacks a general building permit; Texas industrialized-building codes and the state installation-permit process may apply34.
  • We could not confirm a McCulloch County building-code adoption, residential inspection program or certificate-of-occupancy requirement; call the county permits office if your project is unusual5.
  • McCulloch County's no-zoning statement does not answer what a municipality may require; the City of Brady administers its own zoning code and design-review ordinances, and buyers inside Melvin should ask the city directly213.
  • We could not confirm a general McCulloch County floodplain-development rule; if your parcel is near a creek or low-lying area, ask the county permits office before assuming no permit is needed5.

Sources

  1. McCulloch County, Texas (official site) (2026 county census)
  2. McCulloch County permits, quoted and re-checked
  3. Industrialized Housing and Buildings – Adoption of New Code Editions, quoted and re-checked
  4. tdlr.texas.gov (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  5. McCulloch County permits, quoted and re-checked
  6. McCulloch County permits, quoted and re-checked
  7. Hickory UWCD No. 1 Groundwater Management Plan Adopted 2024, quoted and re-checked
  8. McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  9. McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  10. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  11. McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  12. Exemptions to Electrician Licensing (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. McCulloch County permits, quoted and re-checked
  14. McCulloch County - Septic, Culvert and Right-of-Way Permits (co.mcculloch.tx.us)
  15. Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1 (hickoryuwcd.org)
  16. McCulloch County permits, quoted and re-checked
  17. McCulloch County Texas On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  18. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  19. 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
  20. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  21. McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  22. McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  23. McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  24. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  25. Straight-line distance from the county center to the nearest city of 100,000+ people: Bolthole Index county data
  26. Population density: Bolthole Index county data
  27. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data
  31. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data

Written October 5, 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, McCulloch County has no countywide zoning.

RuleMcCulloch CountyConcho CountyMason CountySan Saba CountyMenard CountyColeman CountyMills County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredLimited
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsMcCulloch CountyCounty OSSF ProgramCounty OSSF Designated OfficerCounty On-Site Sewage Facility officeMenardColeman CountyCounty OSSF program

County locator

McCulloch County in Texas

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

How McCulloch County scores

Seclusion84100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency3396% ev.
Admin Boringness8490% ev.
Durability45100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% 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 →

$162kTypical home
1.4%Property tax
$2,129Land / acre
27.1"Annual rain
25.7% of yrsSevere drought
42.9 / yr (+27.9)Mid-century 100°F days
27.8 daysMid-century dry spell
1.85" (+5.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.35×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,208Home insurance / yr
-1.3% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
3,528People within 30 min
353,759People within 2 hr
6,601Radius comparison (15 mi)
7People / sq mi
0%Federal land
94.9%Land at 15% slope or less
3.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
16,978 acWorkable land screen
14.3%Wooded land
9.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
65.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in McCulloch 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.

Brady · Town of Melvin

Answers from the rulebook for McCulloch County

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

McCulloch County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County zoning requirements administered by McCulloch County.

    • The county page separately states that septic, culvert, and right-of-way permits are required.
    • This claim does not determine zoning rules adopted by incorporated municipalities within McCulloch County.
    “McCulloch does not have any zoning requirements at this time. The County does require entities to apply for septic permits, culvert permits, and right of way permits. Please click any of the tabs below to view.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across McCulloch County, including county-administered unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.

    • McCulloch County states it has no zoning requirements at this time.
    • The City of Brady separately administers land-use regulations including a zoning code and design review ordinances.
    • Municipal zoning applies within the relevant municipality and is not a county-administered rule.
    “The Committee is also responsible for the orderly development of the City and the administration of various land use regulations, including the zoning code and design review ordinances.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — Zoning requirements imposed by McCulloch County across the county jurisdiction.
      “McCulloch does not have any zoning requirements at this time. The County does require entities to apply for septic permits, culvert permits, and right of way permits. Please click any of the tabs below to view.”
  • Zoning districtsNot published

    Zoning districts and zoning requirements in unincorporated McCulloch County.

    • The county statement does not address zoning adopted by incorporated municipalities within the county.
    “McCulloch does not have any zoning requirements at this time.”
  • Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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

    McCulloch County's published onsite sewage facility permitting intake.

    • The county page directs applicants to obtain an OSSF permit application from the county.
    • State OSSF requirements and any applicable local requirements still govern the application.
    “The County does require entities to apply for septic permits, culvert permits, and right of way permits.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Entities seeking an on-site sewage facility permit in McCulloch County, Texas.

    • The county requires an application for a septic permit before the applicable on-site sewage facility work may proceed.
    • The county's On-Site Sewage Facility page directs applicants to obtain a Permit Application and states that Acrobat Reader is required.
    • No fee, exemption, numeric threshold, effective date, or other exception is stated in the cited county sources.
    “The County does require entities to apply for septic permits, culvert permits, and right of way permits.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Onsite sewage facilities associated with plats governed by McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations.

    • The county subdivision regulation requires a licensed OSSF inspector's approval certificate for the plat.
    • The inspector must certify that the OSSF facilities for the plat comply with the related McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations and TCEQ requirements.
    • The inspector may be required to appear for questioning at presentation of the plat to Commissioners Court.
    “Licensed On-Site Sewage Facility Inspector in the State of Texas, hereby certify that I have inspected the On-Site Sewage Facilities for this plat, and the same complies with the related requirements of the McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations and the TCEQ.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Water wells within the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District No. 1 portion of McCulloch County.

    • A permit or permit amendment is required before drilling, substantially altering, or producing from a well unless a Rule 8.2 exemption applies.
    • Domestic or livestock wells incapable of producing more than 25,000 gallons per day may be exempt under the stated conditions.
    • A one-well-per-lot exemption may apply to lots of 10 acres or less serving no more than four qualifying households solely for domestic use; exempt wells must still be registered.
    • A well supplying water for a subdivision requiring plat approval under Local Government Code Chapter 232 is not exempt under the listed domestic exemptions.
    • A Notice of Intent to Drill is required before drilling any well, whether exempt or permitted.

    production threshold for specified domestic/livestock exemption: <= 25000 gallons per day (well must satisfy the district's stated domestic/livestock conditions) · small-lot exemption size: <= 10 acres (one well per lot, no more than four qualifying households, solely domestic use) · small-lot exemption household limit: <= 4 households (each household must satisfy the district's relationship or employment conditions)

    “No person shall begin to drill, substantially alter, or produce from a well without having received a permit or permit amendment from the District, unless the well is exempted from permitting under Rule 8.2.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Structures in subdivisions subject to the McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations.

    • Before occupancy, the structure must connect to an individual water well approved by Hickory Underground Water Conservation District, a TCEQ-approved public water supply system, or another domestic water supply approved by the McCulloch County Commissioners Court.
    • The quoted rule applies to subdivisions and does not establish a countywide connection requirement for every parcel.
    “No structure in this subdivision shall be occupied until connected to either: an individual water well, the location of which has been approved by the Hickory Underground Water Conservation District, a TCEQ approved public water supply system (described below), or other domestic water supply subject to approval by the McCulloch County Commissioners Court.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Division of land and related transactions subject to McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations, outside property located entirely within the city limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction of Brady or Melvin.

    • The transaction must qualify as an excluded transaction under the McCulloch County Subdivision Regulations and therefore not be considered a subdivision under those regulations.
    • The subdivider must not lay out any part of the tract for streets, alleys, squares, parks, or other parts intended for public use or for use by purchasers or owners of lots fronting on or adjacent to those areas.
    • The land must be used primarily for agriculture as defined by Section 1-d, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production uses within the meaning of Section 1-d-1, Article VIII, Texas Constitution.
    • Property located 100% within the city limits and/or ETJ of Brady or Melvin is under the exclusive jurisdiction of those cities under interlocal agreements with McCulloch County.
    • If property is located both within the city limits and/or ETJ of Brady or Melvin and in McCulloch County, the property in the ETJ is under city jurisdiction and the property in the county is under county jurisdiction, with the more stringent regulations prevailing.
    “The following types of transactions will not be considered a subdivision as defined in these Regulations, however, this list is not to be considered exclusive of similar transactions and it is in addition to the general rules set out in these Regulations, to-wit: [...] 11. The Subdivider does not lay out a part of the tract for streets, alleys, squares, parks, or other parts of the tract intended to be dedicated to public use or for the use of purchasers or owners of lots fronting on or adjacent to the streets, alleys, squares, parks or other parts, and the land is to be used primarily for agriculture use as defined by Section 1-d, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife management or timber production uses within the meaning of Section 1-d-1, Article VIII, Texas Constitution.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plats and related development outside incorporated city boundaries in McCulloch County.

    • A plat must be submitted to the Commissioners Court for approval before filing with the County Clerk.
    • Subdivision plats require two separate readings at least one month apart.
    • The second reading must occur within one year after first-reading preliminary-plat approval.
    • Required submissions must generally be made at least 30 calendar days before the Commissioners Court meeting.
    • No lot may be sold or transferred until the final plat is approved and recorded and applicable standards are satisfied.
    • Property wholly within the city limits or ETJ of Brady or Melvin is under the cities' exclusive jurisdiction under interlocal agreements; mixed City/ETJ and County property is subject to separate regulations, with the more stringent regulations prevailing.
    • Excluded transactions include intra-family transfers, boundary-line transactions, court-ordered partitions, tracts over 10 acres, certain easement transfers, specified inherited or gifted-property divisions, financing surveys retaining unified ownership, qualifying agricultural or farm/ranch/wildlife/timber divisions, and certain Veterans' Land Board divisions.

    minimum acreage for excused preliminary and final plat approval: >= 10 acres (A map of the subdivision must still be filed with the County Clerk and applicable filing fees paid.) · plat readings: 2 readings (Readings must be at least one month apart; second reading must occur within one year after preliminary-plat approval.) · otherwise exempt plat filing fee: 250 USD per plat up to 5 pages (Each additional page is $25.)

    “Said map or plat, shall be prepared in compliance with these regulations and with the subdivision statutes of the State of Texas and shall be submitted to the Commissioners Court for approval prior to filing with County Clerk.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Road access for proposed subdivisions in unincorporated McCulloch County.

    • A sign-off from the Texas Department of Transportation approving road access is required in the subdivision-plat process.
    • The cited requirement concerns subdivision approval and does not establish a countywide rule for every individual driveway.
    “A sign-off from the Texas Department of Transportation approving road access.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Revision of an existing subdivision plat in unincorporated McCulloch County.

    • The $500.00 hydrological study fee may be waived by variance.
    • An additional fee equal to the cost of publication and/or certified-letter notice may apply.
    • All fees must be paid before Commissioners Court approval.

    revision of plat fee: 50 USD per plat · records preservation fee: 5 USD per plat · courthouse security fee: 1 USD per plat · hydrological study of water availability fee: 500 USD per plat (unless waived by variance)

    “$50.00 per plat, [...] $500.00 per plat Hydrological Study of Water Availability (unless waived by variance)”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County-administered septic, culvert, and right-of-way permits; the source does not provide a complete process for every permit type.

    • The county page identifies these permit categories but does not state all application steps or review requirements.
    • For culvert installation, the applicant must complete the form and contact the County Commissioner for the applicable precinct.
    “apply for septic permits, culvert permits, and right of way permits.”

Texas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

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

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

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

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

    Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components located in Texas, including applicable projects in McCulloch County.

    • The rule applies to industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components, not to all site-built construction.
    • The Texas Industrialized Building Code Council approved later mandatory code editions on November 16, 2023.
    • The Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation adopted the rules on May 21, 2024.
    • The effective date is July 1, 2024.
    • The applicable editions are amended through §70.101 of the Industrialized Housing and Buildings Rules.
    • Construction begun on or after July 1, 2024, must comply with the new code editions and approved design packages.

    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)

    “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:”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — New residential construction in the unincorporated area of a Texas county that has adopted a resolution or order applying Local Government Code Chapter 233, Subchapter F and meets the statutory eligibility condition.
      “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. [...] New residential construction of a single-family house or duplex in the unincorporated area of a county to which this subchapter applies shall conform to the version of the International Residential Code published as of May 1, 2008, or the version of the International Residential Code that is applicable in the county seat of that county.”
    • 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:”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid domestic wastewater disposal through an OSSF or septic system in McCulloch County.

    • Off-grid sanitation is allowed through an OSSF only after obtaining the required permit and approved plan, unless a stated exemption applies.
    • The 10-acre exemption requires a qualifying single-family dwelling, site evaluation, no nuisance or groundwater pollution, all OSSF parts at least 100 feet from the property line, onsite effluent disposal, and no other dwelling on the tract.
    • Emergency repairs are exempt from permitting only when reported in writing within 72 hours after repairs begin.
    • Local permitting authorities may impose requirements more stringent than state minimums.

    10-acre exemption tract size: >= 10 acres (all stated exemption conditions must be met) · 10-acre exemption setback: >= 100 feet (all parts of OSSF from property line) · emergency-repair reporting period: 72 hours (after repairs begin)

    “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    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”:”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • Inspections — Building inspections for residential construction in unincorporated McCulloch County.
  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy or equivalent building-compliance certificates for residential construction in unincorporated McCulloch County.
  • Building in a floodplain — Development in floodplain areas of McCulloch County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in McCulloch County.

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

Living off-grid in McCulloch County, Texas

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

McCulloch County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and deep seclusion — about 3,528 people within a 30-minute drive. Watch-outs: workable self-sufficiency basics (27.1″/yr rainfall).

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

McCulloch 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 McCulloch County (OSSF authorized agent of TCEQ). 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 McCulloch County?

Living in an RV on your own land in McCulloch County is allowed: Unincorporated McCulloch County: no county rule sets this, because McCulloch County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). McCulloch 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 McCulloch County, Texas?

Land in McCulloch County runs about $2,129 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in McCulloch County?

McCulloch County gets about 27.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 25.7% of years.

How remote is McCulloch County?

A representative private-land location has about 3,528 people within a 30-minute drive and 353,759 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 McCulloch compares in Texas

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