Bolthole Index

Nolan County, Texas

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

59Index Score / 100
#95 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Nolan County, Texas does not require a county building permit for a home and has no county zoning12. Sweetwater administers city zoning3. Septic permits follow the TCEQ or authorized-agent process, but we could not confirm the Nolan County permitting agent; water-well registration and non-exempt well permits stay with Wes-Tex Groundwater Conservation District countywide456.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required in unincorporated Nolan County1
Zoning
None in unincorporated Nolan County; Sweetwater administers city zoning23
Septic permit
Permit and construction inspection required unless an exception applies; the local agent is unconfirmed547
Septic soils
About 11% of the county's soils have no severe limits for a conventional drain field8
Water wells
Most wells must be registered; non-exempt wells need a district permit before drilling6
Subdividing land
Municipal or Commissioners Court approval before recording; $70 total filing fee910
Driveway onto a state highway
Needs a TxDOT Form 1058 access driveway permit11

Who to call

Also useful

Nolan County Judge / Commissioners Court

General county contact, Commissioners Court and the first call for anything not assigned to a specific county office, including road, subdivision-plat and floodplain questions

(325) 235-2263

100 East 3rd Street, Sweetwater, Texas 79556

Well permits

Wes-Tex Groundwater Conservation District (Nolan County)

Groundwater well registration and permits for non-exempt wells anywhere in Nolan County

325-236-6033

dale.adams@co.nolan.tx.us

100 East Third Street, Suite 305B, Sweetwater, Texas 79556

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 11, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Nolan County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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

Unincorporated Nolan County does not require a county building permit for a home1. The county answer applies to land outside city limits1. Texas’s owner-builder notice defense protects a qualifying person who builds or acts as contractor for a primary residence from penalties for missed inspection notices where the applicable state subchapter has been adopted; it does not waive building standards or inspections1213. We could not confirm Nolan County’s adoption, so ask the County Judge’s office about residential inspection requirements before construction1314.

Who issues building permits in Nolan County?

Unincorporated Nolan County has no county home building-permit requirement; the County Judge / Commissioners Court is the general county contact for questions about a rural building project114. Call (325) 235-2263 or visit 100 East 3rd Street, Sweetwater, Texas 7955614. For septic permits, ask TCEQ to identify the Nolan County OSSF permitting authority; we could not confirm the local agent5. Wes-Tex handles water-well registration and non-exempt well permits countywide; call 325-236-6033 or email dale.adams@co.nolan.tx.us156.

Does Nolan County have zoning?

Unincorporated Nolan County has no county zoning ordinance2. Nolan County therefore sets no county-zoning minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setback, lot-coverage or building-height rule, and no county-zoning restriction on RV, tiny-home, manufactured-home or accessory-dwelling occupancy on unincorporated land16. Inside Sweetwater, Planning and Development Services reviews zoning and subdivision requests and issues certificates of zoning compliance31718. Sweetwater rezoning requires a staff meeting before submittal, a written city application and a non-refundable $300 fee, followed by Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council public hearings19. City zoning does not replace the separate TCEQ or authorized-agent septic process or Wes-Tex well requirements46.

How do septic permits work in Nolan County?

A septic permit and approved plan are generally required before constructing, altering, repairing, extending or operating an onsite sewage facility in Nolan County4. Submit the application and planning materials to the applicable OSSF authority; TCEQ serves where no local program is authorized, but we could not confirm Nolan County’s agent45. For a permitted system, the installer must give at least 5 working days’ notice before the construction inspection; a failed system cannot be used until it passes7. The 10-acre exception requires the only dwelling on the tract to be a single-family home, a licensed site evaluation, all system parts at least 100 feet from property lines, onsite effluent disposal, no nuisance or groundwater pollution, and compliance with state planning and installation standards20. About 11.3% of Nolan County soils have no severe limits for conventional drain fields, making site evaluation an early homesite decision8.

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

The unincorporated Nolan County zoning answer for RVs and tiny homes is covered above; wastewater approval remains a separate step before occupancy24. Nolan County’s septic requirements cover holding tanks as well as septic systems, so a holding tank is not automatically a permit-free alternative4. Inside Sweetwater, ask Planning and Development Services whether the proposed structure and occupancy fit the lot’s zoning3. For a well serving the site, ask Wes-Tex to determine registration and permit requirements before drilling; non-exempt wells need district approval and exempt wells can still carry registration duties6.

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

  1. Establish whether the parcel is unincorporated Nolan County or inside city limits; the county home building-permit answer applies to unincorporated land, while Sweetwater administers city zoning13.
  2. Ask TCEQ to identify the septic permitting authority and submit the OSSF application and planning materials before construction unless an exception applies54.
  3. Arrange the septic construction inspection with at least 5 working days’ installer notice7.
  4. Ask Wes-Tex about well registration and obtain a non-exempt well permit before drilling; the application form lists a non-refundable $200 validation fee and an in-person appointment6.
  5. Obtain a TxDOT Form 1058 driveway permit before constructing or changing access on state highway right-of-way11.
  6. Obtain municipal planning or Commissioners Court approval before recording a subdivision plat9.
  7. Ask the County Judge’s office to direct unresolved county-road and floodplain questions14.

What to check before you buy land in Nolan County

Subdivision: Nolan County plat filing requires a Mylar map and regular copy, a letter/legal-size map for Commissioners Court, and an original tax certificate for each included tract or parcel showing taxes in good standing; the total filing fee is $7010. Water: determine the well’s exempt status with Wes-Tex before drilling rather than assuming a household well needs no district approval6. Access: a new or changed driveway on state highway right-of-way needs a TxDOT permit before construction11. Taxes: Nolan County’s effective property tax rate is about 1.5% and the median annual bill is near $1,485; qualifying agricultural land may receive a lower appraisal, but that benefit does not exempt development from other rules212223.

Watch-outs

  • Nolan County’s unincorporated zoning answer does not apply inside Sweetwater; city zoning, septic approval and Wes-Tex well requirements are separate346.
  • We could not confirm Nolan County’s OSSF permitting agent; ask TCEQ who handles the parcel’s septic application before buying or building5.
  • We could not confirm Nolan County floodplain-development, county-road driveway or short-term-rental requirements; ask the County Judge’s office to direct those questions14.

Sources

  1. Nolan County, Texas - Official Site (2026 county census)
  2. Nolan County, Texas - Official Site (2026 county census)
  3. Sweetwater: Planning & Development Services (Nolan County), quoted and re-checked
  4. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  5. TCEQ - Getting a Permit for an OSSF (2026 county census)
  6. Rules of the Wes-Tex Groundwater Conservation District, quoted and re-checked
  7. On-Site Sewage Facility Rules Compilation, quoted and re-checked
  8. 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
  9. Recording and Filing Fees - Vital Record Fees, quoted and re-checked
  10. Nolan County Recording and Filing Fees, quoted and re-checked
  11. Access Management Manual — Permits, quoted and re-checked
  12. Local Government Code Chapter 233: County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures, quoted and re-checked
  13. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233, quoted and re-checked
  14. Nolan County Judge / Commissioners Court (co.nolan.tx.us)
  15. Wes-Tex Groundwater Conservation District (Nolan County) (westexgcd.org)
  16. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  17. Planning & Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  18. Planning & Development Services, quoted and re-checked
  19. Application for Rezoning, quoted and re-checked
  20. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  21. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  22. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  23. Agricultural, Timberland and Wildlife Management Use Special Appraisal, quoted and re-checked

Written October 11, 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, Nolan County has no countywide zoning.

RuleNolan CountyCoke CountyMitchell CountyTaylor CountyFisher CountyRunnels CountyScurry County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsTCEQCounty On-Site Sewage Dept.Mitchell CountyCounty Env. Dept.TCEQTCEQScurry County

County locator

Nolan County in Texas

59
County map
Nolan County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Nolan County scores

Seclusion72100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency2696% ev.
Admin Boringness87100% ev.
Durability44100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost81100% ev.

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

$123kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$1,581Land / acre
23.1"Annual rain
28% of yrsSevere drought
35.2 / yr (+25)Mid-century 100°F days
29.7 daysMid-century dry spell
1.59" (+5.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.32×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,388Home insurance / yr
-2% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
3,614People within 30 min
580,188People within 2 hr
9,125Radius comparison (15 mi)
15.7People / sq mi
0%Federal land
96.8%Land at 15% slope or less
11.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
65,960 acWorkable land screen
15.1%Wooded land
4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
64.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Nolan 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: Blackwell · Roscoe

Answers from the rulebook for Nolan County

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

Nolan County rules

  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Unincorporated Nolan County: no county rule sets this, because Nolan County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing co.nolan.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 Nolan County: no county rule sets this, because Nolan County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing co.nolan.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.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Water wells within the Wes-Tex Groundwater Conservation District, whose official materials state that the district consists entirely of Nolan County

    • All wells in the district, whether exempt or non-exempt from permitting, generally must be registered, except leachate, extraction, injection, and dewatering wells.
    • A district permit is required before drilling, equipping, completing, substantially altering, operating, or producing groundwater from a non-exempt well.
    • The district rules exempt leachate, extraction, injection, dewatering, and monitoring wells producing less than 5,000 gallons per year from the district permit requirement.
    • The district rules also exempt certain wells used solely for oil or gas drilling or exploration operations, and certain Railroad Commission-authorized mining wells, subject to the stated conditions; those wells must still be registered and may lose exempt status if used for a non-exempt purpose.
    • The district's non-exempt application form states a $200.00 non-refundable validation fee and requires an in-person appointment before drilling.
    • The district's rules were revised and adopted August 27, 2019; the cited rules state they are otherwise effective August 31, 2004.

    non-exempt well validation fee: 200 USD (Up-front and non-refundable, according to the district's application form.) · monitoring-well production exemption threshold: < 5000 gallons per year (Monitoring wells producing less than this amount do not require a district permit.)

    “Except as otherwise stated in Subsection (c) of this section, a permit from the District is required prior to drilling, equipping, completing, or substantially altering, any well within the District that is not exempt under §3.5 of these rules.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Non-exempt wells within the Wes-Tex Groundwater Conservation District, which consists entirely of Nolan County, Texas.
      “The following types of wells do not require a permit from the District: leachate wells, extraction wells, injection wells, dewatering wells, and monitoring wells that produce less that 5,000 gallons per year.”
    • Limited — Specified exempt wells within the Wes-Tex Groundwater Conservation District in Nolan County.
      “A well exempt under Subsection (a) will lose its exempt status and must be permitted”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Plats and maps submitted for recording in Nolan County.

    • All plats must be approved by a municipal planning/development department or the Nolan County Commissioners Court before recording.
    • Two plat maps are required at filing: one Mylar and one regular copy.
    • One letter/legal-size map is required for the Commissioners Court.
    • An original tax certificate is required for each tract or parcel included in the subdivision plat, showing taxes are currently in good standing.
    • The fee schedule states an effective date of 01/01/2024.

    plat/map recording fee: 50 USD · records management fee: 10 USD · records archive fee: 10 USD · total plat/map filing fee: 70 USD

    “All plats must have been approved by a municipal planning/development department or the County Commissioner's Court prior to recording.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats presented for recording in Nolan County, including plats requiring County Commissioner's Court approval outside a municipality.
      “All plats must have been approved by a municipal planning/development department or the County Commissioner's Court prior to recording.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats or maps presented for recording in Nolan County.
      “All plats must have been approved by a municipal planning/development department or the County Commissioner's Court prior to recording.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county zoning ordinance or zoning department was found; Texas counties generally have no zoning authority over unincorporated land.

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

Texas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

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

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

    An individual builder subject to Chapter 233, Subchapter F, who builds the residence or acts as the individual's own contractor and intends to use it as the individual's primary residence.

    • The exemption concerns penalty exposure for failure to submit required inspection notices; it is not an exemption from building standards or inspections.
    • The new residential construction must be built by the individual or the individual must act as the individual's own contractor.
    • The individual must intend to use the residence as the individual's primary residence.
    • Applicability to Nolan County depends on Nolan County having adopted the resolution or order required by Section 233.152.
    “An individual who fails to provide proper notice in accordance with Sections 233.154(b) and (c) is not subject to a penalty under this subsection if: (1) the new residential construction is built by the individual or the individual acts as the individual's own contractor; and (2) the individual intends to use the residence as the individual's primary residence.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Failure to provide specified inspection notices under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233, Subchapter F, for qualifying new residential construction in an applicable county.
      “An individual who fails to provide proper notice in accordance with Sections 233.154(b) and (c) is not subject to a penalty under this subsection if: (1) the new residential construction is built by the individual or the individual acts as the individual's own contractor; and (2) the individual intends to use the residence as the individual's primary residence.”
    • Conditional — An owner performing electrical, plumbing, or air-conditioning and refrigeration work on the owner's own residence or homestead in Texas.
      “A person who perform electrical work on a dwelling that they own and reside in is not required by the state to be licensed as electricians.”
    • Conditional — Electrical work on a dwelling owned and occupied by the property owner in Texas.
      “A person who perform electrical work on a dwelling that they own and reside in is not required by the state to be licensed”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components 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:”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    OSSF permitting, inspection, and administration throughout Texas.

    • TCEQ administers the program in areas where no local jurisdiction has been authorized.
    • A local governmental entity may administer the program only after an order, ordinance, or resolution is approved by TCEQ.
    • The authorized agent administers the program within its approved area of jurisdiction.
    • Local programs may adopt requirements more stringent than state minimums.
    “The authorized agent is responsible for the proper implementation of Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 366, 30 TAC Chapter 285, including reviewing OSSF permit applications, conducting inspections, investigating complaints, and more.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed — On-site sewage facilities, including septic systems, throughout Texas
      “TCEQ is not often the OSSF permitting authority. [...] The TCEQ regional office will be the permitting authority in locations where a local jurisdiction has not been authorized.”
  • Septic permitRequired

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

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

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

    “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, and operation of an onsite sewage facility, including septic systems and holding tanks, in Texas, including Nolan County
      “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF in Texas
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. [...] An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Construction inspections for onsite sewage facilities in Texas, including Nolan County

    • The permitting authority must conduct a construction inspection after the installer gives at least five working days' notice that the OSSF will be ready for inspection.
    • If the OSSF fails inspection, it cannot be used until it passes inspection; the permitting authority must provide deficiency information and may assess a reinspection fee payable before reinspection.
    • No inspection is required for an OSSF covered by the grandfathering or 10-acre exceptions in 30 TAC §285.3(f), including the single-family dwelling, 10-acre tract, no nuisance or groundwater pollution, 100-foot property-line separation, on-property effluent disposal, and only-dwelling conditions.
    • An authorization to construct expires after one calendar year if the installer does not request a construction inspection within that year.

    inspection notice: >= 5 working days (The installer must notify the permitting authority before the OSSF will be ready for inspection.) · authorization-to-construct validity: 1 calendar year (Expires if no construction inspection is requested within one year; a new application and fee are then required before installation.)

    “The installer shall notify the permitting authority at least five working days (Monday through Friday, excluding holidays) before the date the OSSF will be ready for inspection. (3) The permitting authority shall conduct a construction inspection.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — OSSF installation and, where applicable, maintenance inspections in Texas
      “Many times, the AA has a "designated representative" (DR) to assist them with their responsibilities, which include reviewing plans for constructing, altering, extending or repairing each OSSF; issuing permits; and inspecting system installation. [...] If the system uses an electronic monitor, automatic radio or telephone to notify the maintenance provider of system or component failure and to monitor the amount of disinfection in the system, reporting may be reduced to every six months.”
    • Limited — OSSFs using secondary treatment or drip irrigation in Texas.
      “A system using secondary treatment or drip irrigation must be inspected by a valid maintenance company once every four months, or be maintained by the single family homeowner, where allowed.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid wastewater sanitation through an OSSF in Texas.

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

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

    “An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
    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.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Special agricultural appraisal of qualifying agricultural land in Nolan County, Texas.

    • The land must be currently devoted principally to agricultural use.
    • Agricultural use includes cultivating soil, producing crops, raising or keeping livestock, poultry, fish, or planting cover crops; certain other listed uses may also qualify.
    • Agricultural land must be devoted principally to agricultural use to the degree of intensity generally accepted in the area.
    • The land must have been devoted to agricultural or timber production for at least five of the past seven years.
    • Land within an incorporated city or town has additional criteria concerning comparable general services, five continuous years of agricultural use, or qualifying wildlife-management use.
    • The special appraisal is a property-tax appraisal benefit and is not stated to exempt land from subdivision, building, setback, or other development regulation.
    • A change to non-agricultural use may trigger rollback tax for each of the previous three years in which the land received the lower appraisal; qualifying exceptions may apply.
    “Property owners may qualify for agricultural appraisal if land meets the following criteria: The land must be currently devoted principally to agricultural use.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New access driveways and modifications to existing driveways on Texas state highway right-of-way, including state highways abutting property in Nolan County.

    • A completed TxDOT Form 1058 is necessary whenever a new access driveway is constructed or an existing access driveway is modified.
    • The applicant should contact the local TxDOT District office.
    • Form 1058 must include the proposed work description, applicant name, mailing address, telephone number, and proposed driveway location.
    • The application must be made by the property owner or authorized representative representing all parties in interest.
    • The application must be for the bona fide purpose of securing or changing access to the owner's property, not parking or servicing vehicles on state highway rights-of-way.
    • No driveway construction work may begin on the right-of-way until the applicant receives a fully executed permit and gives TxDOT 24-hour notification.
    • The driveway must be constructed under the fully executed permit and applicable regulations; TxDOT inspection determines acceptability, and the installation is authorized only after satisfactory completion.
    • If a local public agency has been granted permitting authority, drainage impacts on the state highway system still require TxDOT coordination and approval before local approval.
    • Driveway geometrics, utility location or relocation, environmental and wetlands requirements when applicable, ADAAG, TAS, and other applicable state and federal laws must be considered.
    • The permitting process may be transferred to an eligible county or municipality at its request and with TxDOT approval.

    TxDOT notification before right-of-way construction: 24 hours (Notification must be given after receipt of a fully executed permit and before construction.)

    “A completed Permit Form 1058 is necessary whenever new access driveways are constructed or existing access driveways are modified.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Constructing a new driveway or revising an existing driveway on the right of way of a Texas state highway.

    • The applicant should contact the local District TxDOT office.
    • The applicant must submit Form 1058, Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way.
    • The application must be for the bona fide purpose of securing or changing access to the owner's property, not parking or servicing vehicles on state highway rights of way.
    • No construction may begin on the right of way until a fully executed driveway permit is received and the applicant gives TxDOT 24-hour notification.
    • The driveway must comply with the executed permit and applicable regulations; TxDOT inspection must find construction satisfactory.
    • Where a local public agency has permitting authority, drainage impacts on the state highway system still require TxDOT approval before local approval.
    • Driveway geometrics, utilities, environmental requirements, wetlands considerations, ADAAG, TAS, and other applicable state and federal laws must be considered.

    required form: Form 1058, Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way · advance notification: 24 hours (Notification to TxDOT is required before construction on the right of way.) · private residential driveway maximum width: <= 24 feet (Except as increased by permissible radii.) · minimum driveway radius to highway pavement: >= 15 feet

    “The applicant shall complete and submit to TxDOT a Form 1058”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, and operation of on-site sewage facilities, including septic systems and holding tanks, in Nolan County under Texas requirements.
      “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
  • 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 Nolan County

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building-code administration and construction inspections within the City of Sweetwater, Nolan County, Texas.

    • The City reviews plans, issues permits, and conducts inspections for compliance with its adopted building codes and ordinances.
    • Inspection appointments are required under the appointment-based process effective June 1, 2026.
    • Contractors requesting an inspection must submit the request by 4:00 p.m. on the business day before the desired inspection date; same-day requests depend on availability.
    • Permit and inspection fees are set each fiscal year in the Central Rate Schedule and must be paid before work starts.

    inspection appointment system effective date: 2026-06-01 · inspection request deadline: 4:00 p.m. on the business day prior to desired inspection date (Same-day requests are scheduled based on availability)

    “Our team is responsible for reviewing plans, issuing permits, and conducting inspections to verify compliance with the City's adopted building codes and ordinances.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning and land-use regulation administered by the City of Sweetwater within Sweetwater, Nolan County, Texas.

    • The City reviews zoning and subdivision requests.
    • The City issues certificates of zoning compliance.
    • The City coordinates zoning matters with the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustments.
    “Sweetwater's zoning ordinances help protect property values and ensure safe, organized growth. Our team reviews zoning and subdivision requests, issues certificates of zoning compliance, and coordinates with the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustments.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land use and zoning within the City of Sweetwater, Nolan County, Texas.
      “Sweetwater's zoning ordinances help protect property values and ensure safe, organized growth. Our team reviews zoning and subdivision requests, issues certificates of zoning compliance, and coordinates with the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustments.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning and land-use regulation within the City of Sweetwater, Nolan County, Texas.
      “Sweetwater's zoning ordinances help protect property values and ensure safe, organized growth. Our team reviews zoning and subdivision requests, issues certificates of zoning compliance, and coordinates with the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustments.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use and zoning regulation within the City of Sweetwater, an incorporated municipality in Nolan County.
      “The Planning and Zoning Commission hears land use issues, such as zoning ordinances and rezoning requests, and makes recommendations to the City Council.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Rezoning applications administered by the City of Sweetwater, within Nolan County.

    • Applicant must meet with staff before submittal.
    • Applicant must submit a written request on the city form.
    • The fee is non-refundable and covers publication costs and U.S. postal rates for certified-letter mailing to nearby property owners.
    • The application proceeds through the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council public-hearing process.

    rezoning application fee: 300 USD (non-refundable)

    “Pay a non-refundable application fee of $300.00, which covers publication cost and U. S. postal rates for certified letter mailing to property owners in the vicinity of the rezoning request.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Inspections — Building inspections in Nolan County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy or equivalent certificates of compliance in Nolan County.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Required connection to public water or sewer utilities for property in Nolan County
  • Building in a floodplain — Floodplain development in Nolan County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Nolan County, including unincorporated areas.

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 Nolan County, Texas

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

Nolan County scores 59/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (23.1″/yr rainfall).

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

Nolan 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 Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) OSSF program / local authorized agent. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Nolan County is allowed: Unincorporated Nolan County: no county rule sets this, because Nolan County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing co.nolan.tx.us. Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits. Chapter 231 does not grant a general statewide county zoning power; authority is provided through geographically or subject-matter limited subchapters. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Nolan County, Texas?

Land in Nolan County runs about $1,581 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Nolan County?

Nolan County gets about 23.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 28% of years.

How remote is Nolan County?

A representative private-land location has about 3,614 people within a 30-minute drive and 580,188 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 Nolan compares in Texas

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