Bolthole Index

Milam County, Texas

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

68Index Score / 100
#55 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Milam County, Texas does not require a general residential building permit, but targeted development, floodplain, subdivision, driveway and septic approvals can still apply1. The county also has no general zoning authority over unincorporated land2. Milam County's current Development Permit application nevertheless says structural work may not begin until that targeted permit is issued3. Septic permits come from the Milam County Health Department, and the City of Cameron sets its own zoning inside city limits45.

At a glance

Building permit
No general residential building permit in unincorporated Milam County; targeted development approvals still apply1
Fire Marshal permit
Not required for one- or two-family dwellings; covered commercial, public and larger multifamily buildings follow the county fire-code process67
Zoning
No county zoning authority in unincorporated areas; incorporated cities may have their own rules25
Septic permit
Milam County Health Department requires permits and inspections for systems constructed, altered, extended or repaired489
Owner-builder
You may build your own home because no general county building permit is required10
RV or tiny home
No county zoning restriction on a single RV or tiny home; a development for two or more RVs is regulated as an RV park1112
Septic lot size
At least 2 acres for subdivision lots designed to use an on-site sewage facility13
Private well
Household or livestock wells need POSGCD registration and approval to drill; non-exempt wells need drilling and operating permits1415

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Milam County Planning and Development

Development, floodplain, land-development, pipeline-crossing and county-road driveway permits

254-627-1760

102 South Fannin St., Cameron, TX 76520

Septic permits

Milam County Health Department

On-site sewage facility permits, inspections and aerobic-system maintenance records

254-697-7039

908 N Crockett, Suite B, Cameron, TX 76520

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

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

Unincorporated Milam County does not require a general residential building permit1. An owner may therefore build the owner's own home without seeking an exemption from a general county building permit10. That answer does not eliminate targeted approvals: Milam County's current Development Permit application includes structural development and says work may not start before a Development Permit is issued3. The non-subdivision application fee is $5016. One- and two-family dwellings do not need a separate Fire Marshal permit, while covered commercial, public and larger multifamily buildings follow the county fire-code process67. Development in a mapped flood hazard area also requires floodplain review and any applicable engineering support17.

Who handles Milam County building and development permits?

Milam County Planning and Development is the first stop for targeted development, floodplain, subdivision and county-road access questions; the office is at 102 South Fannin St. in Cameron and can be reached at 254-627-176018. The Development Permit application asks for the street address, appraisal-district ID, lot number, legal description, and distance and direction to the nearest intersecting road for unincorporated property19. The county may issue a targeted permit after finding that the proposal conforms to the applicable county order and the fee is paid16. Unincorporated land divisions require plat approval unless a listed exemption applies20. A driveway connecting to a state highway instead goes through TxDOT using Form 1058, and work on the right of way waits for the executed permit and advance notice to TxDOT21.

Does Milam County have zoning?

Milam County has no zoning authority over unincorporated land, so it sets no county zoning districts, minimum dwelling size, general setbacks, lot coverage or building-height limits there211. County floodplain, subdivision, septic, fire-code, access and targeted development rules still apply where their conditions are met172022. Municipal rules are different: the City of Cameron publishes its own zoning-change, special-use and zoning-map materials5. Ask the relevant city about land inside municipal limits or a regulated municipal area5. Subdivision lots designed for an on-site sewage facility must contain at least 2 acres, a septic-related lot standard rather than general zoning13. A qualifying division used primarily for agriculture, farming, ranching, wildlife management or timber production can be exempt from plat approval, but the platting requirements return if the qualifying use ends23.

How do septic permits work in Milam County?

The Milam County Health Department is the countywide permitting and inspection authority for on-site sewage facilities4. The office is at 908 N Crockett, Suite B in Cameron and can be reached at 254-697-703924. Milam County requires a permit for a system being constructed, altered, extended or repaired, and work cannot begin until the county issues an Authorization to Construct8. Although Texas minimum rules describe a narrow 10-acre exemption and an emergency-repair exception, the county application says all such work in Milam County must be permitted; confirm the county requirement with the Health Department rather than relying on the state exception258. After a successful inspection, the owner receives a Notice of Approval; each necessary re-inspection costs $1009. Only 14.5% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation an early feasibility check26.

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

Milam County has no county zoning restriction on temporary camping, accessory dwellings or manufactured-home occupancy on unincorporated land, because the county has adopted no zoning ordinance11. That zoning answer does not override sanitation, floodplain, access, deed or development requirements that apply to a parcel or project817. Outside city limits, a privately operated tract designed for two or more RVs used for dwelling or sleeping is regulated as an RV park and needs an approved Development Plan before construction12. Within a regulated lodging or RV development, a tiny house on wheels is treated as an RV and a tiny house on a foundation as a lodging unit27. A lodging or RV development designed for more than two units, RVs or tiny houses is regulated as a subdivision, and the Commissioners Court must approve its Development Plan before construction begins28. Permanent structures need county Development Permits, and county staff may inspect the development's infrastructure during construction2930. Ask Planning and Development whether a proposed multi-unit layout falls within those rules18.

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

  1. Ask Milam County Planning and Development to confirm that the parcel is unincorporated and identify targeted development, floodplain or subdivision approvals181.
  1. Submit the county Development Permit application before covered structural work begins; the non-subdivision application fee is $50316.
  1. Arrange the septic site evaluation and obtain the county's Authorization to Construct before septic work starts248.
  1. If using a private well, obtain POSGCD approval before drilling; a non-exempt well also needs drilling and operating permits1415.
  1. Resolve access: a covered development off a county road needs a county driveway permit, while state-highway access requires TxDOT's executed permit3121.
  1. Submit any flood-elevation or engineering material required for mapped flood-hazard development17.
  1. Build to the targeted approvals and obtain the successful septic inspection; covered fire-code buildings follow a separate inspection process97.

What should you check before buying land in Milam County?

Start with septic feasibility because only 14.5% of Milam County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, and subdivision lots designed for an OSSF must contain at least 2 acres2613. Check subdivision status before closing: unincorporated land divisions generally require plat approval unless an exemption applies, and a qualifying agricultural exemption ends if the tract stops serving the qualifying use2023. Check the flood map and access because mapped flood-hazard development needs county review and a new or changed state-highway driveway needs TxDOT approval1732. Every Milam County well is within the Post Oak Savannah Groundwater Conservation District: an exempt household or livestock well needs registration and approval before drilling, while a non-exempt well needs drilling and operating permits1415. Milam County receives about 38 inches of precipitation annually, while severe drought occurs in about 20.4% of years3334.

Watch-outs

  • No general residential building permit does not mean no paperwork: targeted development, floodplain, subdivision, access and septic approvals can still apply1.
  • Milam County has not confirmed a general certificate-of-occupancy rule or a countywide building-code edition for an ordinary site-built home; ask Planning and Development what final documentation applies to the specific project18.
  • A single RV is not restricted by county zoning in unincorporated Milam County, but a site designed for two or more dwelling or sleeping RVs triggers the county's RV-park development rules1112.

Sources

  1. Milam County Development Permit Application (floodplain) (2026 county census)
  2. Milam County Development Permit Application (floodplain) (2026 county census)
  3. Development Permit Application - Approved 25-05-12, quoted and re-checked
  4. Milam County Health Department OSSF Application, quoted and re-checked
  5. Code Enforcement / Building Permits Department - Cameron, Texas, quoted and re-checked
  6. Milam County Fire Code, quoted and re-checked
  7. Milam County Fire Code, quoted and re-checked
  8. Milam County Health Department OSSF Application, quoted and re-checked
  9. Milam County Health Department OSSF Application, quoted and re-checked
  10. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  11. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  12. Milam County RV Park Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  13. Milam County Subdivision and Development Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  14. Drilling & Wells FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  15. Drilling & Wells FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  16. Development Permit Application - Approved 25-05-12, quoted and re-checked
  17. Development Permit Application - Approved 25-05-12, quoted and re-checked
  18. Milam County Planning and Development (milamcounty.net)
  19. Development Permit Application - Approved 25-05-12, quoted and re-checked
  20. Milam County Planning and Development, quoted and re-checked
  21. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. How to Obtain a Permit for an On-Site Sewage Facility in Milam County, quoted and re-checked
  23. Milam County Subdivision and Development Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  24. Milam County Health Department (milamcounty.net)
  25. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  26. 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
  27. Milam County RV Park Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  28. Milam County Requirements for Lodging & Recreational Vehicle Park Developments, quoted and re-checked
  29. Order Adopting Requirements for Lodging and Recreational Vehicle Park Developments, quoted and re-checked
  30. Order Adopting Requirements for Lodging and Recreational Vehicle Park Developments, quoted and re-checked
  31. Milam County Infrastructure Requirements for Lodging & Recreational Vehicle Park Developments, quoted and re-checked
  32. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleMilam CountyBurleson CountyRobertson CountyFalls CountyBrazos CountyLee CountyBell County
Building permitNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredLimitedRequiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Env. OfficeCounty OSSF ProgramFalls CountyCounty Health Dept.County Development ServicesCounty Public Health District

County locator

Milam County in Texas

68
County map
Milam County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Milam County scores

Seclusion54100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency45100% ev.
Admin Boringness7490% ev.
Durability51100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost73100% ev.

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

$279kTypical home
1.1%Property tax
$4,490Land / acre
38"Annual rain
20.4% of yrsSevere drought
38.6 / yr (+27.3)Mid-century 100°F days
23.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.1" (+5.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.41×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,963Home insurance / yr
2.1% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
6,728People within 30 min
3,886,402People within 2 hr
17,670Radius comparison (15 mi)
25.5People / sq mi
0.1%Federal land
99%Land at 15% slope or less
14.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
93,367 acWorkable land screen
20.2%Wooded land
18.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
67.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Milam County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Town of Buckholts · Milano · Rockdale · Thorndale

Answers from the rulebook for Milam County

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

Milam County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Structural development, including new residential structures, additions, alterations, replacements, relocations, manufactured homes, and other listed development activities in unincorporated areas of Milam County.

    • No work of any kind may start until a Development Permit is issued.
    • Other local, state, and federal permits may also be required.
    • The application requires project-location information for properties in unincorporated areas.
    • The administrator may issue the Developmental Permit upon payment of designated fees if the proposed activity conforms to the applicable Milam County order.
    • The application lists a $50.00 fee for applications other than Subdivision Development Permits.
    • Subdivision-related fees differ: residential application $100.00; commercial application $500.00; preliminary plat outside the flood plain $500.00 plus $15.00 per lot; preliminary plat within the flood plain $750.00 plus $15.00 per lot; final plat $250.00 plus $15.00 per lot; variance request $35.00; RV park plat $500.00 plus $10.00 per RV slot.
    • Penalties for not securing a permit are $2,500.00 outside the flood plain and $10,000.00 within the flood plain.
    • If the application is not in conformance, the Local Administrator provides a written summary of deficiencies; the applicant may revise and resubmit or request a hearing from the Board of Appeals.

    general application fee other than Subdivision Development Permit: 50 USD · penalty for not securing permit outside flood plain: 2500 USD · penalty for not securing permit within flood plain: 10000 USD

    “No work of any kind may start until a Development Permit (PERMIT) is issued. [...] Provide the street address, Milam County Appraisal District ID Number, Lot Number, Legal Description (attach), and the distance and direction to the nearest intersecting roadway for properties in unincorporated areas. [...] A. Structural Development”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Permanent structures in a Milam County lodging development or recreational vehicle park located outside municipal city limits
      “Milam County Development Permits will be required for all permanent structures in the Development.”
    • Not required — Milam County Fire Marshal building permits for one- and two-family dwellings in unincorporated Milam County.
      “The Fire Marshal’s Office does not issue permits for one- and two- family dwellings. This addition clarifies that a permit may not be required prior to occupying a residential structure.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county building permit is required, so there is no permit to be exempt from and you may build your own home. State licensing for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work may still apply.

    • This finding concerns the Fire Marshal's building-permit program and does not establish that targeted development, floodplain, subdivision, driveway, OSSF, municipal, or other permits are unnecessary.
    • The Fire Code separately authorizes inspections for fire and life-safety hazards and regulates other covered buildings and activities.
    “The Fire Marshal’s Office does not issue permits for one- and two- family dwellings. This addition clarifies that a permit may not be required prior to occupying a residential structure.”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Buildings subject to the Milam County Fire Code, including commercial establishments, public buildings, and multifamily residential dwellings consisting of four or more units in unincorporated Milam County.

    • The owner must request the inspection in writing on or before completion of construction or substantial improvement.
    • The fire code official may inspect at reasonable times during construction or substantial improvement and after completion.
    • The inspection must begin within 10 business days after receipt of the written request; if properly requested and not begun within that period, the building is considered approved for purposes of the subchapter.
    • A final Certificate of Compliance is issued only if the completed building complies with the fire code.
    • If the completed building does not comply, the Certificate of Compliance is denied and the building may not be occupied.
    • Inspections of buildings constructed before or after the effective date may address listed fire and life-safety hazards and are subject to the fee schedule.

    inspection commencement deadline: 10 business days (If the official does not begin within the period after a proper written request, the building is considered approved for purposes of the subchapter.) · substantial improvement threshold: > 50 percent of building value (Repair, restoration, reconstruction, improvement, or remodeling cost exceeding 50 percent of the prior year's certified county tax appraisal value.)

    “The fire code official shall inspect a building subject to this code to determine whether the building complies with the fire code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Infrastructure construction for a Milam County lodging development or recreational vehicle park development outside municipal city limits
      “Milam County Planning and Development staff, as well as any other person designated by either Milam County Planning and Development or the Commissioners Court, may inspect the infrastructure at any reasonable time during construction. The Owner and his agents shall not hinder such inspections.”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county rule sets this, because Milam County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing newtools.cira.state.tx.us.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Minimum dwelling size · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county rule sets this, because Milam County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing newtools.cira.state.tx.us.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    All lots in Milam County subdivisions that must comply with the County's on-site sewage facility rules

    • The requirement applies to lots designed in compliance with Milam County on-site sewage facility rules.
    • The cited rule specifies the minimum for on-site sewage facilities and does not establish a universal minimum lot size for every possible land division.

    minimum lot size for on-site sewage facilities: >= 2 acres

    “All Lots must be designed in compliance with the Rules of Milam County for On-Site Sewage Facilities. Milam County has a minimum Lot size of two (2) Acres for On-Site Sewage Facilities.”
  • Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county rule sets this, because Milam County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing newtools.cira.state.tx.us.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county rule sets this, because Milam County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing newtools.cira.state.tx.us.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Building height · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county rule sets this, because Milam County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing newtools.cira.state.tx.us.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Occupancy of two or more recreational vehicles in a privately owned and operated recreational vehicle park or combined lodging/recreational vehicle development outside the city limits of a municipality in Milam County.

    • The county regulation defines an RV park as a lot or tract designed to accommodate two or more recreational vehicles, operated privately with or without charges, and occupied or intended for dwelling or sleeping purposes for any length of time.
    • A Development Plan is required before construction; a pre-application meeting with Milam County Planning and Development staff is required.
    • The complete application is subject to administrative review within 10 business days and a 30-day county review; final approval or disapproval is by the Commissioners Court, and construction may not begin before approval.
    • A Certificate of Compliance is required before utilities may serve the development or its RV spaces.
    • Only one RV is allowed per hookup; hookups must be at least 40 feet apart, and RVs must maintain at least 10 feet from other RVs or structures on all sides, including extended slide-outs or canopies.
    • RV spaces must include a hardened area of at least 12 feet by 40 feet.
    • On-site septic systems must be designed by a licensed certified engineer and comply with Milam County and TCEQ requirements.
    • The development must provide adequate water, drainage, access, fire-suppression facilities, and public or commercial trash collection at least weekly; occupancy requires tenants to agree to that trash service.
    • If the development lacks qualifying fire hydrants and centralized water, required water storage is 2,500 gallons for fewer than five units/spaces or 10,000 gallons for five or more.
    • The Commissioners Court may grant a variance for unusual hardship, but not as to fees; a variance must be resolved before the Development Plan application and expires if the approved action is not completed within one calendar year.

    minimum number of recreational vehicles for RV park: >= 2 vehicles (The rule concerns an RV park or combined development.) · minimum separation between hookup locations: >= 40 feet · minimum separation between recreational vehicles or structures: >= 10 feet (Applies on all sides, including when slide-outs or canopies are extended.) · minimum hardened RV-space area: 12 x 40 feet (Compacted crushed road base material.) · fire-water storage for fewer than 5 units/spaces: 2500 gallons (Applies when the development lacks qualifying fire hydrants and centralized water.) · fire-water storage for 5 or more units/spaces: 10000 gallons (Applies when the development lacks qualifying fire hydrants and centralized water.) · administrative review period: 10 business days (For accuracy and completeness after a complete application is received.) · county review period: 30 days (Under Texas Local Government Code 232.0025.)

    “The Owner of a lot or tract of land located in Milam County outside the city limits of a municipality who intends to use the land for a Lodging or Recreational Vehicle Park Development must prepare an Development Plan (DP) that complies with the minimum requirements that are set out herein.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county rule sets this, because Milam County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing newtools.cira.state.tx.us.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny houses under 400 square feet in a privately owned lodging, recreational vehicle park, or combined development outside the city limits of a municipality in Milam County.

    • A tiny house is defined as any residential structure under 400 square feet, whether on wheels or secured to a foundation.
    • A tiny house on wheels is treated as a recreational vehicle; a tiny house secured to a foundation is treated as a lodging development unit.
    • The development must accommodate more than two lodging development units, recreational vehicles, tiny houses, or a combination, and must be operated as a private enterprise with or without charges for dwelling or sleeping purposes for any length of time.
    • A Development Plan, pre-application meeting, county review, Commissioners Court approval, Certificate of Compliance, infrastructure, water, wastewater, drainage, fire-suppression, and trash requirements apply as stated in the regulations.
    • A tiny house secured to a foundation must be included in a Lodging Development Space; a tiny house on wheels must comply with recreational vehicle space requirements, including the 12-by-40-foot hardened area.
    • The Commissioners Court may grant an unusual-hardship variance, subject to the regulation's timing, fee, covenant, and one-year expiration conditions.

    maximum tiny-house floor area: < 400 square feet (The regulation defines a tiny house as under 400 square feet.) · minimum number of combined development units, RVs, or tiny houses: > 2 units (The development definition requires more than two.) · minimum hardened area for tiny house on wheels treated as an RV: 12 x 40 feet (Compacted crushed road base material.)

    “TINY HOUSE - Any residential structure under 400 square feet, whether on wheels or secured to a foundation. A Tiny House on wheels shall be treated as a Recreational Vehicle for purposes of these requirements. A Tiny House secured to a foundation shall be treated as a Lodging Development Unit for purposes of these requirements.”
  • Manufactured homes · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county rule sets this, because Milam County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing newtools.cira.state.tx.us.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Milam County: no county rule sets this, because Milam County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing newtools.cira.state.tx.us.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters.
    • For Padre Island, the authority applies in Cameron or Willacy County outside a municipality and within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development, or within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.
    “This subchapter applies to the areas of Padre Island located in Cameron or Willacy County and located: (1) outside a municipality but within two miles of a publicly owned park or recreational development; or (2) within two miles of a beach, wharf, or bathhouse used by at least 500 persons annually.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    OSSF permitting and inspection in Milam County.

    • The county form identifies the Milam County Health Department's designated representative as the permitting and inspection official.
    • The county program operates under TCEQ OSSF rules; the current TCEQ-approved delegation order or resolution was not located.
    “As of October 1, 2006, ALL On-Site Sewage Facilities being constructed, altered, extended or repaired in Milam County must be permitted and inspected by a designated representative of the Milam County Health Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — On-site sewage facilities in Milam County, Texas.
      “As of October 1, 2006, ALL On-Site Sewage Facilities being constructed, altered, extended or repaired in Milam County must be permitted and inspected by a designated representative of the Milam County Health Department.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF in Milam County.

    • An Authorization to Construct must be issued before construction, alteration, repair, or extension begins.
    • The county application states that the Authorization to Construct is valid for one year from issuance.
    • The county application lists fees including $410 for conventional and low-pressure dosing systems, $660 for commercial and non-single-family residential systems, and $560 for aerobic systems; each includes a $100 design review fee.
    • The county application states that nonstandard system plans may be reviewed by TCEQ.
    • The county source is marked effective January 1, 2016; that date is retained as the source's stated effective date.

    conventional and low pressure dosing system fee: 410 USD (Base price includes $100 design review fee) · commercial and non-single-family residential system fee: 660 USD (Base price includes $100 design review fee) · aerobic system fee: 560 USD (Base price includes $100 design review fee) · Authorization to Construct validity: 1 year (From date of issuance) · re-inspection fee: 100 USD (Each time a system must be re-inspected and before Notice of Approval is issued)

    “Upon approval an Authorization to Construct (ATC) will be issued. The ATC is valid for one year from the date of issuance. Construction, alteration, repair or extension can not begin until you receive an ATC.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF in Milam County, Texas.
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. Always check with your local permitting authority. Local permitting programs can be more stringent than State minimums.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    OSSFs constructed, altered, extended, or repaired in Milam County.

    • Inspection is by a designated representative of the Milam County Health Department.
    • The county application states that a Notice of Approval is issued after a successful inspection.
    • A $100 re-inspection fee is required each time a system must be re-inspected and before the Notice of Approval is issued.
    • Aerobic systems must have a maintenance contract conducted by a certified maintenance provider.

    re-inspection fee: 100 USD (Each re-inspection and before Notice of Approval)

    “After a successful inspection, a Notice of Approval will be issued to the owner. NOTE: A re-inspection fee of $100.00 must be paid by the installer each time a system must be re-inspected and before the Notice of Approval will be issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Well permitLimited

    New household, domestic, or livestock wells located in Milam County, which is within the Post Oak Savannah Groundwater Conservation District (POSGCD), and which qualify as exempt wells.

    • Any well located within Milam County is within POSGCD.
    • The well must be used exclusively for household/domestic or livestock purposes.
    • The well must be equipped so it cannot produce more than 25,000 gallons of groundwater per day or 17.36 gallons per minute.
    • An exempt well must be registered with POSGCD.
    • Before drilling a new exempt well, the landowner must apply and receive a Certificate to Proceed with Drilling (also called a Certificate to Drill after approval).
    • The exempt-well application requires a $100 deposit, returned when POSGCD receives the driller's Well Completion Report, which the well owner must issue within 60 days of completion.
    • The owner must contact POSGCD before drilling, replacing, altering, or re-drilling an existing well; increasing well or pump capacity; changing the purpose of use; transporting groundwater outside the District; or using the well beyond household/domestic use.

    maximum production for exempt classification: <= 25000 gallons per day · maximum production rate for exempt classification: <= 17.36 gallons per minute · exempt-well application deposit: 100 USD (Returned once the District receives the Well Completion Report from the driller.) · Well Completion Report deadline: 60 days after completion (The well owner must issue the report.)

    “Household or domestic wells are required to be registered with the District but are exempt from permits if used exclusively for household/domestic or livestock purposes and are equipped so that they cannot produce more than 25,000 gallons of groundwater per day or 17.36 gallons per minute, as defined by the Texas Water Code, Chapter 36.117. [...] Landowners are required to apply to drill, alter, or operate an exempt well (a well for household or livestock use) and pay a $100 deposit, which is returned once the District receives the Well Completion Report from the Driller, issued by the well owner within 60 days of completion. Once the application is approved, a Certificate to Drill is issued, allowing drillers to proceed.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Non-exempt wells located in Milam County, including wells capable of pumping 25,000 gallons per day or over 17.36 gallons per minute, or wells whose use does not qualify for an exemption.
      “Any well located within the counties of Milam and Burleson is within the District. [...] Drilling permit - Required before drilling, re-drilling, or replacing a non-exempt well. Operating permit - Required before producing groundwater from a non-exempt well. The operating permit sets the authorized production amount, use, rate, and conditions.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A qualifying division of land in unincorporated Milam County that does not lay out a part of the tract described by Texas Local Government Code §232.001(a)(3) and is used primarily for agriculture, farming, ranching, wildlife management, or timber production.

    • The owner must not lay out a part of the tract described by Texas Local Government Code §232.001(a)(3).
    • The land must be used primarily for agricultural use as defined by §1-d, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production use within the meaning of §1-d-1, Article VIII, Texas Constitution.
    • If the tract ceases to be used primarily for the qualifying agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production use, the platting requirements apply.
    “c) Any division of land in which the Owner does not lay out a part of the tract described by Section 232.001 (a)(3) of the Texas Local Government Code and the land is to be used primarily for agricultural use as defined by Section 1-d, Article VIII Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production use within meaning of Section 1-d-1, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, however, if any tract described herein above ceases to be used primarily for agricultural use of for farm, ranch, wildlife management or timber production use, the platting requirements of these Regulations shall apply.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and division of land in the unincorporated areas of Milam County subject to the Milam County Subdivision and Development Regulations.

    • Plat approval is required unless an exemption in Article IV applies.
    • The regulations contain exceptions for certain divisions of land, including qualifying agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, timber-production, large-lot, family-transfer, veterans' land-board, governmental, and owner-retained/further-subdivided situations.
    • Municipal or extraterritorial-jurisdiction requirements may also apply where applicable.
    “4.1 Exempted Subdivisions. The following Subdivisions shall be exempt from Section 3.2 and shall not be required to obtain plat approval under these Regulations:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Lodging developments and recreational vehicle park developments located in Milam County outside the city limits of a municipality, including developments designed to accommodate more than two lodging units, recreational vehicles, tiny houses, or combinations of those uses.
      “The Commissioners Court of Milam County, Texas, finds that lodging & recreational vehicle park developments, as defined below, are subdivisions under Chapter 232, Texas Local Government Code.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Lodging and recreational vehicle park developments outside the city limits of a municipality in Milam County.

    • The rule applies to the defined lodging or recreational vehicle park development, including a development designed to accommodate more than two lodging units, recreational vehicles, tiny houses, or combinations of those uses.
    • A Milam County Driveway Permit is required when the development is located off a County Road.
    • If the development is located off a State Highway, an approved TxDOT Driveway Permit must be submitted with the Development Plan, or written TxDOT coordination and agreement with contingent conditions must be provided.
    • The regulations are subject to interlocal agreements involving incorporated cities and their extraterritorial jurisdictions.
    “If the Development is located off of a County Road, a Milam County Driveway Permit is required.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Proposed development evaluated under Milam County floodplain administration, including development in a Special Flood Hazard Area or regulatory floodway.

    • The application requires the administrator to determine whether the property is outside, partially within, or within a Special Flood Hazard Area and whether it is in the floodway.
    • A site plan showing existing structures, water boundaries, adjacent roads, lot dimensions, and proposed development must be submitted before processing.
    • For subdivisions or other development exceeding 50 lots or five acres, whichever is lesser, 100-year flood elevations must be provided if otherwise unavailable.
    • Flood-proofed structures require certification from a registered engineer or registered architect.
    • Activity in a regulatory floodway requires registered-engineer certification that it will not increase the 100-year floodplain height, together with supporting hydraulic and hydrologic calculations.
    • A development permit or exemption certificate does not guarantee that development outside an identified Special Flood Hazard Area will be free from flooding or flood damage.

    large-development threshold: > 50 lots (Or five acres, whichever is lesser) · large-development threshold: > 5 acres (Or 50 lots, whichever is lesser)

    “Certification from a registered engineer that the proposed activity in a regulatory floodway will not result in any increase”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Milam County development, subdivision, variance, and RV park permit applications.

    • The administrator may issue a Developmental Permit only when the proposed activity is determined to conform with the applicable Milam County Order and designated fees are paid.
    • The non-subdivision application fee is $50.00.
    • Subdivision fees are: residential application $100.00; commercial application $500.00; preliminary plat outside the flood plain $500.00 plus $15.00 per lot; preliminary plat within the flood plain $750.00 plus $15.00 per lot; final plat $250.00 plus $15.00 per lot; variance request $35.00; RV Park Plat $500.00 plus $10.00 per RV slot.
    • Penalties for not securing a permit are $2,500.00 outside the flood plain and $10,000.00 within the flood plain.
    • The application identifies the document as updated 12 May 2025; that update is not treated as an effective date.

    non-subdivision application fee: 50 USD (Other than the Subdivision Development Permit) · residential subdivision application fee: 100 USD · commercial subdivision application fee: 500 USD · preliminary plat outside flood plain: 500 USD plus 15 USD per lot · preliminary plat within flood plain: 750 USD plus 15 USD per lot · final plat: 250 USD plus 15 USD per lot · variance request: 35 USD · RV Park Plat: 500 USD plus 10 USD per RV slot · penalty outside flood plain: 2500 USD (For not securing a permit) · penalty within flood plain: 10000 USD (For not securing a permit)

    “Other than the Subdivision Development Permit, the application fee is $50.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Milam County development permit applications, including structural and other development activities.

    • No work of any kind may start until a Development Permit is issued.
    • The permit may be revoked for false statements, and work must cease until the permit is re-issued.
    • Other local, state, and federal permits may also be required.
    • The applicant consents to reasonable inspections by the Local Administrator or representative.
    • For properties in unincorporated areas, the application requests the street address, appraisal district ID, lot number, legal description, and distance and direction to the nearest intersecting roadway.
    “No work of any kind may start until a Development Permit (PERMIT) is issued.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Texas counties lack zoning authority in unincorporated areas; Milam County regulates land only through subdivision and floodplain/development rules rather than zoning districts.

    Milam County Development Permit Application (floodplain) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Texas rules that apply here

  • 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:”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid wastewater sanitation through an OSSF in Texas.

    • An OSSF generally requires a permit and approved plan before construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, or operation.
    • A qualifying single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres may use the 10-acre permitting exemption only if every stated site-evaluation, setback, nuisance, groundwater, on-site disposal, and single-dwelling condition is met.
    • Local permitting authorities may impose requirements more stringent than state minimums.
    • Emergency repairs are exempt from permitting only for the listed repair types and must be reported in writing within 72 hours after repairs begin.

    10-acre exemption tract size: >= 10 acres (all TCEQ conditions must be satisfied) · 10-acre exemption OSSF setback: >= 100 feet from property line (all parts of the OSSF)

    “An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Composting toilets used as on-site sewage facility treatment systems in Texas.
      “Composting toilets will be approved by the executive director provided the system has been tested and certified under NSF International Standard 41 (1999) or under any other standards approved by the executive director.”
  • 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 Milam County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land uses within the City of Rockdale, Texas, in Milam County.

    • The City of Rockdale states that its zoning ordinance regulates use by zoning districts.
    • For a rezoning request, the Planning and Zoning Commission schedules a public hearing and makes a recommendation to City Council; City Council schedules a public hearing and decides whether to grant the rezoning.
    “Zoning ordinances promote compatible land uses to adjoining properties within defined areas. The City's Zoning Ordinance regulates use by zoning districts.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use regulation within the City of Cameron, Milam County, Texas.
      “Application for Zoning Change [...] Re-Zoning Application [...] Application for Special Use Permit [...] Zoning Map [...] City of Cameron Zoning Map”

Still unanswered

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

  • Certificate of occupancy — A general certificate of occupancy for buildings in Milam County
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Whether a water or sewer utility connection is required for property in Milam 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 Milam County, Texas

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

Milam County scores 68/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

Milam 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 Milam County Health Department (OSSF authorized agent for 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.

How much does land cost in Milam County, Texas?

Land in Milam County runs about $4,490 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Milam County?

Milam County gets about 38" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 20.4% of years.

How remote is Milam County?

A representative private-land location has about 6,728 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,886,402 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 Milam compares in Texas

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