Bolthole Index

Potter County, Texas

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

36Index Score / 100
#240 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Potter County, Texas does not require a county building permit for an ordinary home and has no county zoning ordinance12. Inside Amarillo, the city issues building permits, enforces adopted building codes and sets zoning345. Septic permits for every address in Potter County, city or not, come from the Amarillo Area Public Health District6.

At a glance

Building permit
No county building permit in unincorporated Potter County; Amarillo issues building permits inside city limits13
Zoning
No county zoning in unincorporated Potter County; Amarillo has its own zoning inside city limits25
Septic permits
Amarillo Area Public Health District (AAPHD) Environmental Health Department, TCEQ's designated authority for Potter County; $800 residential / $900 commercial67
RV / tiny home / manufactured home living
No county zoning rule restricts it outside Amarillo, since the county has no zoning ordinance8
Minimum home size / lot coverage / height
None set by the county outside Amarillo8
Septic minimum lot size
1 acre with a private well, or 1/2 acre with public water supply (exceptions may apply to lots platted before 1988)9
Subdivision plat
A division into two or more parts generally needs an approved, recorded plat before conveyance, subject to statutory exceptions10
Septic soil difficulty
43.7% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field11

Who to call

Septic permits

Amarillo Area Public Health District (AAPHD), Environmental Health Department

OSSF (septic) permit applications, fees, inspections, and 9-1-1 address requests tied to septic permits for Potter County

806-378-9472

808 S Buchanan St, Suite 275, Amarillo, TX 79101

Building permits

City of Amarillo Building Safety Department

Building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits and inspections inside the City of Amarillo, including the Amarillo portion of Potter County; has no authority over unincorporated land outside city limits and the one-mile ETJ

806-378-3041

808 S Buchanan St, Amarillo, TX 79101

Planning & zoning

Potter County Commissioners Court (County Judge's Office)

Approves subdivision plats for land divided outside incorporated city limits, sets the county's subdivision regulations, and administers county government generally; Potter County has no separate zoning or building department

(806) 379-2246

Potter County Courthouse, 500 S. Fillmore, Amarillo, TX 79101

Roads & driveways

Potter County Road & Bridge

County road maintenance and construction-related questions for driveways and culverts touching county roads

(806) 383-2273

2419 Willow Creek, Amarillo, TX 79107

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

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Potter 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 Potter County, Texas?

No general building permit is required for an ordinary home in unincorporated Potter County1. The county's subdivision, floodplain, and sanitation rules can still affect a project even without a county building permit11213. Inside Amarillo city limits, most construction requires a city permit, and the city enforces adopted building codes that took effect in 202434. Amarillo development must complete applicable final inspections, and a new residential or commercial building receives a certificate of occupancy when its permit is completed1415. Inside Amarillo, a homeowner can apply for a residence permit through the city if the address is the applicant’s homestead with the Potter/Randall Appraisal District, and that route does not remove the permit requirement16. Before buying or designing, confirm whether the parcel is inside Amarillo city limits; the city's permit, code, inspection, and occupancy rules do not establish those requirements for unincorporated Potter County415.

Who issues building permits, septic permits and driveway approvals in Potter County?

Potter County has no county building-permit office for homes on unincorporated land1. Inside Amarillo, the City of Amarillo Building Safety Department issues building permits and inspections; its office is at 808 S Buchanan St, Amarillo, TX 79101, and its phone number is 806-378-304117. Septic permits are different: the Amarillo Area Public Health District’s Environmental Health Department issues them for every address in Potter County, inside or outside Amarillo; its office is at 808 S Buchanan St, Suite 275, Amarillo, TX 79101, and its phone number is 806-378-94721819. The Potter County Commissioners Court approves qualifying subdivision plats outside incorporated city limits; call (806) 379-22462010. For county-road driveway or culvert questions, contact Potter County Road & Bridge at (806) 383-2273 before designing the driveway21.

Does Potter County have zoning?

Unincorporated Potter County has no county zoning ordinance2. County rules therefore do not set a minimum dwelling size, general minimum lot size, lot coverage, building height, or zoning districts, and they do not restrict RV, tiny-home, manufactured-home, accessory-dwelling, or temporary-camping occupancy through zoning8. Amarillo is different: municipal zoning regulates land use, setbacks, parking, and related development questions5. A manufactured home inside Amarillo may need zoning review and a Specific Use Permit if that use is not allowed in the parcel's zone22. Unincorporated land is not rule-free. Dividing a tract into two or more parts generally triggers Potter County platting rules, subject to statutory exceptions, and a subdivision inside a city's extraterritorial jurisdiction needs city approval before final county approval10. Subdivision plats must also show vehicle ingress and egress, while certain intersection lots have a 30-foot structure setback2324.

How do septic permits work in Potter County?

Installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF in Potter County requires a permit from the Amarillo Area Public Health District's Environmental Health Department199. Submit the application and required documents first; an approved Authorization to Construct is required before an inspection can be scheduled25. A private-well property generally needs a 1-acre lot, while a public-water property generally needs a 1/2-acre lot, with possible exceptions for property platted before 19889. A homeowner may install or repair the system serving the homeowner's single-family residence, but rental, leased, and commercial properties require a licensed installer9. An approved Authorization to Construct is valid for one calendar year, and the system must pass inspection within that period or a new permit is needed26. The residential fee is $800, the commercial fee is $900, and an existing-system inspection costs half the permit fee7. Only 43.7% of Potter County soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so complete the site evaluation before fixing the house location11. A narrow statewide 10-acre exemption may apply when every listed condition is met, including a licensed evaluation and 100-foot property-line separation27.

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

Potter County does not use zoning to restrict RV, tiny-home, manufactured-home, accessory-dwelling, or temporary-camping occupancy on unincorporated land, and county zoning sets no minimum dwelling size8. That answer is limited to county zoning: a septic system serving the dwelling still needs AAPHD approval unless a state exemption applies927. Potter County's subdivision rules also still govern a qualifying land division, access shown on the plat, drainage, and other improvements1223. Inside Amarillo, municipal zoning and building rules replace the unincorporated-county answer54. In particular, Amarillo requires a zoning check before placing a manufactured home and may require a Specific Use Permit when the home is not allowed in that zone22.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is inside Amarillo city limits; city permits, codes, inspections, and occupancy approval apply there341415.
  1. For unincorporated land divided into two or more parts, confirm that any required plat was approved and recorded before conveyance10.
  1. Settle access early: subdivision plats must show ingress and egress, and state-highway access requires Form 1058 plus 24-hour notice before construction2328.
  1. Order the septic site evaluation, submit the AAPHD application, and obtain Authorization to Construct before scheduling inspection25.
  1. Account for the $800 residential OSSF fee and verify whether the narrow 10-acre state exemption actually applies727.
  1. On an unincorporated ordinary-home project, no general county building permit is required1.

What to check before you buy land in Potter County

Water deserves an early budget: severe drought affected about 40.2% of years, and annual precipitation is about 18.7 inches2930. Only 43.7% of Potter County soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so do not assume a standard septic layout will fit the planned homesite11. Confirm city-limit status because Amarillo zoning, permits, adopted codes, inspections, and occupancy approval apply inside the city541415. For recently divided unincorporated land, verify the approved recorded plat, legal access, planned driveway points, drainage, and whether the county accepted any roads for maintenance1223. A state-highway driveway requires a separate TxDOT permit28. Typical property tax is about 1.5%, with a median annual bill near $2,0283132.

Watch-outs

  • Amarillo's building-permit, code, inspection, and certificate-of-occupancy rules apply inside the city and should not be treated as Potter County rules for unincorporated land341415.
  • We could not confirm a Potter County rule on building inspections, certificates of occupancy, or an owner-builder exemption for unincorporated construction; ask the Commissioners Court before relying on their absence20.
  • An approved subdivision plat does not mean Potter County accepted the subdivision roads or other improvements for maintenance12.

Sources

  1. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 232 - County Regulation of Subdivisions (2026 county census)
  2. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 232 - County Regulation of Subdivisions (2026 county census)
  3. Work Exempt – From Permit, quoted and re-checked
  4. Building Safety - City of Amarillo, quoted and re-checked
  5. Codes & Ordinances - City of Amarillo, quoted and re-checked
  6. Amarillo Area Public Health District - On-Site Sewage Facility (2026 county census)
  7. Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  8. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  9. On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  10. Potter County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  11. 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
  12. Potter County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  13. Potter County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  14. Development Liaison, quoted and re-checked
  15. Certificate of Occupancy, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building Safety, quoted and re-checked
  17. City of Amarillo Building Safety Department (amarillo.gov)
  18. Amarillo Area Public Health District (AAPHD), Environmental Health Department (amarillo.gov)
  19. On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  20. Potter County Commissioners Court (County Judge's Office) (co.potter.tx.us)
  21. Potter County Road & Bridge (co.potter.tx.us)
  22. Building Safety - City of Amarillo, quoted and re-checked
  23. Potter County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  24. Potter County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  25. On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  26. On-Site Sewage Facility, quoted and re-checked
  27. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Median property tax bill: 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, Potter County has no countywide zoning.

RulePotter CountyRandall CountyCarson CountyMoore CountyOldham CountyArmstrong CountyHutchinson County
Building permitNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsAmarillo Area Public Health DistrictAmarillo Area Public Health DistrictTCEQTCEQTCEQTCEQHutchinson County

County locator

Potter County in Texas

36
County map
Potter County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Potter County scores

Seclusion38100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1396% ev.
Admin Boringness8290% ev.
Durability38100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost79100% ev.

Evidence strength: 97%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$153kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$1,217Land / acre
18.7"Annual rain
40.2% of yrsSevere drought
25.9 / yr (+21.2)Mid-century 100°F days
30.3 daysMid-century dry spell
1.33" (+0.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.26×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,383Home insurance / yr
0.6% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
225,964People within 30 min
723,043People within 2 hr
28,240Radius comparison (15 mi)
126.2People / sq mi
5.8%Federal land
92.5%Land at 15% slope or less
43.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
242,285 acWorkable land screen
2.5%Wooded land
1.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Potter 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 Bishop Hills

Answers from the rulebook for Potter County

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

Potter County rules

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A homeowner installing or repairing an on-site sewage facility serving the homeowner's single-family residence in Potter County.

    • An OSSF permit is required when installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF in Potter County.
    • The homeowner must submit a permit application and required documents to the City of Amarillo Environmental Health Department.
    • The installation must meet Title 30 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 285.
    • A licensed installer is required for rental properties, leased dwellings, or commercial operations.
    • Permit fees must be paid at submission.
    • For private water wells, the minimum lot size is 1 acre; for public water supply, the minimum lot size is 1/2 acre; exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988.

    minimum lot size with private water well: 1 acre (Exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988.) · minimum lot size with public water supply: 0.5 acre (Exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988.)

    “Homeowners can install or repair their OSSF if it serves their single-family residence, but they must submit a permit application and required documents to the City of Amarillo Environmental Health Department. The installation must meet TAC 30 Chapter 285 requirements. A licensed installer is required for rental properties, leased dwellings, or commercial operations.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Homeowner installation or repair of an on-site sewage facility serving a single-family residence in Potter County, under the Amarillo Area Public Health District's permitting authority.
      “Homeowners can install or repair their OSSF if it serves their single-family residence, but they must submit a permit application and required documents”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Countywide aggregate of local land-use zoning in Potter County: the City of Amarillo administers zoning for its city-limit area in Potter County; this claim does not state that Potter County administers Amarillo's ordinance.

    • Within Amarillo, zoning addresses zoning districts, land-use categories, building setbacks, parking requirements, and related regulations.
    • Texas states that counties generally lack zoning authority, subject to limited statutory exceptions in specified areas; parcel-specific review is required for unincorporated Potter County.
    • County subdivision, floodplain, health, and other non-zoning land-use controls are not resolved by this claim.
    “The Planning Department ensures orderly growth and development in Amarillo by implementing key ordinances related to zoning, subdivisions, historic preservation, landscaping, and more.”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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 Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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 Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Structures on lots in Potter County subdivisions bordered by intersecting roads, outside incorporated city limits.

    • The rule applies to lots bordered by intersecting roads.
    • Obstructions to prescribed lines of sight may be ordered removed after 30 days written notice.
    • An owner may request a hearing before the Potter County Commissioners Court within the 30-day notice period.

    minimum setback from convergence of curb lines or road edges: >= 30 feet (Applies to all portions of structures situated on lots bordered by intersecting roads.)

    “All portions of structures situated on lots bordered by intersecting roads shall be set back at least 30 feet”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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 Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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 Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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 Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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 Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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 Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

    • 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 Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

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

    OSSF permitting and inspection in Potter County, within the Amarillo Area Public Health District service area

    • The Environmental Health Department employs licensed Designated Representatives through TCEQ.
    • The authority is granted by County Order in Potter and Randall Counties.
    • OSSF standards are governed by Title 30 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 285.
    “The Amarillo Area Public Health District is responsible for permitting and inspecting septic systems in Potter and Randall Counties. The Environmental Health Department serves as the Permitting Authority for these counties, employing licensed Designated Representatives through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This authority is granted by County Order in both Potter and Randall Counties.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Local — OSSF and septic-system permitting and inspection in Potter County, including the county area administered under the Amarillo Area Public Health District.
      “The Amarillo Area Public Health District is responsible for permitting and inspecting septic systems in Potter and Randall Counties.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF in Potter County

    • A permit is required for installation, repair, replacement, or alteration.
    • For properties with a private water well, the minimum lot size is 1 acre.
    • For properties with a public water supply, the minimum lot size is one-half acre.
    • Exceptions may apply to properties platted before 1988.
    • Homeowners may install or repair an OSSF serving their single-family residence, but must submit a permit application and required documents.
    • A licensed installer is required for rental properties, leased dwellings, or commercial operations.
    • Permit fees must be paid at submission.
    • An Authorization to Construct is valid for one calendar year; the OSSF must pass inspection within that period, or a new permit is required.

    residential OSSF permit fee: 800 USD (Fee schedule effective September 1, 2025) · commercial OSSF permit fee: 900 USD (Fee schedule effective September 1, 2025) · minimum lot size with private water well: 1 acre (Exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988) · minimum lot size with public water supply: 0.5 acre (Exceptions may apply for properties platted before 1988)

    “permit is required when installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF in Potter County.
      “Yes, a permit is required when installing, repairing, replacing, or altering an OSSF in Potter or Randall counties.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Construction and existing-system inspections for OSSFs in Potter County

    • An approved Authorization to Construct is required before scheduling an inspection.
    • An existing permitted OSSF inspection requires a completed Existing Septic System Inspection application and payment of the required inspection fee.
    • The OSSF must pass inspection within one calendar year of the Authorization to Construct.
    • Inspection requests without the completed application and payment will be canceled.
    • The existing OSSF inspection fee is one-half of the permit cost.
    • A $150 trip fee applies.

    existing OSSF inspection fee: ½ permit cost text · trip fee: 150 USD

    “Authorization to Construct is required before scheduling.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — On-site sewage facility inspections in Potter County under the Amarillo Area Public Health District permitting authority, including construction inspections and requests concerning existing already-permitted facilities.
      “An Approved Authorization to Construct is required before scheduling.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Homes and other buildings outside municipal city limits in Potter County using on-site septic sanitation.

    • Owners may arrange installation of their own septic systems through certified installers licensed by TCEQ.
    • All installations must comply with Title 30, Chapter 285, Texas Administrative Code.
    • All installations must be approved by the Amarillo Bi-City-County Health District.
    • The county regulation concerns OSSF/septic systems and does not establish authorization for every possible off-grid sanitation technology.
    “Owners of homes and other buildings outside the city limits may arrange for installation of their own septic systems by certified installers licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality”
  • Well permitLimited

    Wells producing 17.5 gallons per minute or less in the portions of Potter County within the Panhandle Groundwater Conservation District.

    • The Panhandle Groundwater Conservation District covers only parts of Potter County.
    • If a well is exempt from an Operating Permit and Drilling Permit under District Rule 5.1, only registration is required.
    • The District page describes registration as an acknowledgement that the well does not require an Operating Permit and Drilling Permit.

    production rate: <= 17.5 gallons per minute

    “This would be wells producing 17.5 gallons per minute or less.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in Potter County outside the city limits of incorporated cities, including division of one tract into two or more parts to lay out a subdivision, addition, individual lots, or public-use areas or amenities.

    • A compliant plat must be prepared and submitted for approval to the Potter County Commissioners Court.
    • No portion of subdivided land may be conveyed until the plat has been approved by the Potter County Commissioners Court and recorded in Potter County public records.
    • The county regulations are in addition to Texas Local Government Code Chapter 232 and are subject to the exceptions in Section 232.0015.
    • A subdivision within a city's extraterritorial jurisdiction requires approval by the nearest incorporated city before final Commissioners Court approval.
    • Subdivision plat approval does not constitute county acceptance of roads or other improvements for maintenance.
    • The Commissioners Court may require surety bond, cash deposit, or other financial security not exceeding the estimated construction cost of subdivision roads and drainage systems.
    • The plat must address roads, drainage, septic or other waste disposal, utilities, easements, centralized mail delivery, fire and rescue features, and other listed requirements.

    minimum division triggering stated plat rule: >= 2 parts (Subject to the exceptions in Texas Local Government Code Section 232.0015.) · maximum financial security: estimated cost of construction of roads and drainage systems within the subdivision USD (Security may be required as a condition of approval.) · regulations revision: 12-2023 · original regulation effective date: 1994-04-25 (Unless otherwise noted, and provided notice is published as required by Section 232.003.)

    “an owner ofland located in Potter County and outside the city limits of any incorporated city in Potter County, who proposes to subdivide one tract into two or more parts [...] must prepare a plat of the proposed subdivision that is compliant with these regulations, and submit the plat for approval”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in Potter County outside the city limits of incorporated cities in Potter County.
      “No portion of subdivided land may be conveyed until a plat of same has been approved by the Potter County Commissioners Court”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of one tract into two or more parts in Potter County outside the city limits of incorporated cities, including subdivisions, individual lots, and public-use areas or amenities.
      “must prepare a plat of the proposed subdivision that is compliant with these regulations, and submit the plat for approval as provided in section D below.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — An owner of land in Potter County outside the city limits of any incorporated city in Potter County who subdivides one tract into two or more parts for a subdivision or addition, individual lots, or public-dedicated areas or amenities.
      “an owner ofland located in Potter County and outside the city limits of any incorporated city in Potter County [...] must prepare a plat”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Subdivision development outside the city limits of incorporated cities in Potter County.

    • A subdivision plat is required for an owner outside city limits who proposes to divide one tract into two or more parts, subject to statutory exceptions.
    • The plat must illustrate ingress and egress points for vehicle traffic entering and leaving the proposed subdivision and designate building setback lines for lots.
    • Dead-end roads must terminate in a cul-de-sac with a minimum 50-foot radius of right-of-way that allows driveway access off the cul-de-sac onto adjoining lots.
    • Culvert sizes for each lot must be submitted on the original plat and predetermined by the drainage study.
    • Culvert installations are the subdivision owner/developer's responsibility; county installation, if any, is billed at material cost plus reasonable labor charges.

    cul-de-sac minimum radius: >= 50 feet of right-of-way (Dead-end roads covered by the subdivision regulations) · maximum single culvert length: <= 32 feet · minimum culvert cover: >= 6 inches

    “A plat must also illustrate ingress and egress points for vehicle traffic flowing into and out of the proposed subdivision”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Proposed subdivision development outside incorporated city limits in Potter County.

    • A comprehensive water drainage plan prepared by a qualified expert must accompany a proposed subdivision plat.
    • The plan must address drainage during and after reasonably foreseeable precipitation events, analyze impacts on property outside the subdivision, identify areas within a 100-year flood plain, identify other elevated flood-risk areas, and provide mitigation recommendations including possible minimum foundation elevations.
    • The county subdivision regulations are revised 12-2023 and were adopted by Commissioners Court on December 11, 2023; the regulations also state an effective date of April 25, 1994, provided required notice is published.

    floodplain recurrence interval identified: 100 years

    “A comprehensive water drainage plan, prepared by a qualified expert, must accompany a plat for a proposed subdivision.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    On-site sewage facility permits and inspections in Potter County administered by the Amarillo Area Public Health District Environmental Health Department.

    • The fee schedule is effective September 1, 2025.
    • Residential OSSF fee is $800 and commercial OSSF fee is $900.
    • Existing OSSF inspection fee is one-half of the permit cost.
    • Work without authorization to construct is subject to an additional $350 plus permit fee for a first offense or $700 plus permit fee for a second offense.
    • A convenience fee of 2.65% in person and 3.49% online applies to credit/debit card transactions.

    residential OSSF permit fee: 800 USD · commercial OSSF permit fee: 900 USD · existing OSSF inspection fee: ½ permit cost · fee schedule effective date: 2025-09-01

    “On-site Sewage Facility (OSSF) Residential | $800 On-site Sewage Facility (OSSF) Commercial | $900 Existing OSSF Inspection | ½ permit cost”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    On-site sewage facility permitting, authorization, inspection, and approval in Potter County.

    • The Amarillo Area Public Health District Environmental Health Department is the permitting authority for Potter County under County Order.
    • OSSF standards are governed by Title 30 of the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 285.
    • An Approved Authorization to Construct is required before scheduling an inspection.
    • An existing permitted OSSF inspection request requires a completed application and payment; requests without both are canceled.
    • Outside-city-limit owners may arrange installation by certified TCEQ-licensed installers under Environmental Health Department supervision, subject to approval by the Amarillo Bi-City-County Health District.
    “The Amarillo Area Public Health District is responsible for permitting and inspecting septic systems in Potter and Randall Counties.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Texas does not grant zoning authority to counties; unincorporated Potter County is not zoned (zoning exists only within the City of Amarillo). The county regulates subdivision platting, not land-use zoning.

    Texas Local Government Code Chapter 232 - County Regulation of Subdivisions ↗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.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components governed by the Texas Industrialized Housing and Buildings program.

    • The mandatory state code adoption applies to industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components, not all construction statewide.
    • The effective date is July 1, 2024.
    • The International Existing Building Code applies to alterations of portable industrialized buildings.
    • Manufacturers already certified for Texas must have design-package documents reviewed and approved to the new editions with an approval date on or after July 1, 2024, unless the manufacturer elected to transition before the effective date under Department rule 70.70(a)(5)(B).
    • Construction begun on or after July 1, 2024 must comply with the new code editions and approved design packages.
    • Construction begun before July 1, 2024, or before a manufacturer's effective transition date, must meet the stated completion, inspection, and labeling deadline to remain eligible for a Texas decal.

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

    “July 1, 2024, all industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components shall comply with the following codes, as amended in §70.101 of the IHB Rules:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — Industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components built for Texas under the Industrialized Housing and Buildings program.
      “Effective July 1, 2024, all industrialized housing and buildings, modules, and modular components shall comply with the following codes, as amended in §70.101 of the IHB Rules:”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inside cities and towns in Potter County

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

  • Building permitRequired

    Most construction projects and regulated building, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work within the City of Amarillo, including the Amarillo portion of Potter County.

    • The City page lists permit-exempt work, including one-story detached accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses with floor area not exceeding 200 square feet.
    • Exemptions do not authorize work violating the building code or other laws or ordinances.
    • Emergency equipment replacements and repairs may be performed before the permit application, but the application must be submitted within the next business day.
    • Ordinary repairs are exempt only subject to the page's stated limitations; work affecting structural supports, egress, public health, or general safety is excluded.
    • Violations are subject to a late fee of $250 plus permit fee for a first occurrence and $500 plus three times the permit fee for a second or subsequent occurrence.

    accessory structure floor area exemption: <= 200 square feet (one-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses)

    “Most construction projects require a permit from the city as described in the International Residential Code Sec. 105.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A homeowner seeking a building permit for a residence within the City of Amarillo, including the portion of Amarillo located in Potter County.

    • The property address must be listed as the applicant's homestead exemption with the Potter/Randall Appraisal District.
    • The homeowner path is an application route and does not eliminate the requirement to obtain the required permit.
    • The Amarillo Building Safety Department's permitting jurisdiction is within Amarillo city limits.
    “You can apply for a permit at MGO Connect — Permitting Software for your residence if the address is listed as your homestead exemption with the Potter/Randall Appraisal District.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building-code adoption and enforcement within the City of Amarillo.

    • The City of Amarillo page states that the Building Safety Department provides permitting for projects within Amarillo city limits.
    • The listed codes were adopted in October 2023 and became effective in January 2024.
    • The page lists the 2021 Building Code Local Amendments & Ordinance, Ordinance 8082, among the adopted codes.
    • This municipal adoption does not establish county adoption for unincorporated Potter County.

    adoption date: 2023-10 · effective date: 2024-01 · building code ordinance: 2021 ORD #8082

    “What ICC codes has the City of Amarillo adopted? [...] Amarillo’s Current List of International Codes include: Adopted—10/2023 Effective—1/2024 2021 Fire Code Local Amendments & Ordinance 2021 ORD #8084 2021 Building Code Local Amendments & Ordinance 2021 ORD #8082”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — Residential building-code adoption and enforcement within the City of Amarillo portion of Potter County.
      “The following represents frequently asked questions and/or violations of the 2021 International Residential Code with City amendments.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Development projects within the City of Amarillo, including the Amarillo portion of Potter County.

    • Permitting and inspections are handled by both Building Safety and the Fire Marshal.
    • All final inspections, including fire-system inspection, must be completed to confirm compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
    • Additional inspections may apply to specific uses, such as Environmental Health inspection for food or drink services.
    “Ensure all final inspections, including the fire system inspection, are completed to confirm that the development meets all applicable codes and regulations.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Use of land and buildings within the City of Amarillo, including the Amarillo portion of Potter County.

    • A certificate is automatically issued for every new commercial and residential building when the permit is completed.
    • A new certificate may be required for a change in use, square footage, or floor plan.
    • A certificate-only permit applies when no alterations or additions are proposed and no certificate was previously issued or there is a change of use.
    • If alterations or additions are proposed, a remodel or repair permit with a registered contractor is required and the certificate is issued at completion.
    • Kitchen or bar areas require a grease-trap calculation with engineer stamp; final Building Safety and Fire Marshal inspections are required, plus Environmental Health inspection when food or drink services or sales occur.
    “No land shall hereafter be used unless a Certificate of Occupancy and Compliance shall have been issued by the Building Official of the City,”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land within the incorporated City of Amarillo in Potter County.

    • The City of Amarillo zoning ordinance applies through zoning districts and district-specific use, height, and area regulations.
    • This claim does not establish zoning authority or zoning coverage for unincorporated Potter County.

    zoning districts: 18 districts

    “The City is hereby divided into eighteen (18) Zoning Districts. The use, Height and area regulations as set out in this chapter are uniform within each District.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning within the City of Amarillo portion of Potter County.
      “The Planning Department ensures orderly growth and development in Amarillo by implementing key ordinances related to zoning, subdivisions, historic preservation, landscaping, and more.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning within the City of Amarillo, a municipality located in Potter County.
      “Before placing a manufactured home, contact the Department of Building Safety at 806-378-3041 to check the zoning of your lot. [...] If the home isn’t allowed in your zone, apply for a Specific Use Permit through the Planning Department.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land within the City of Amarillo, a municipality located in Potter County, Texas.
      “A map of Zoning Districts for Amarillo city limits is available online. Locate your area on the map and utilize the Legend to see what your area is currently zoned as.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Mandatory utility hookup — Required connection to public water or sewer utilities for property in Potter County
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Potter County, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.

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 Potter County, Texas

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

Potter County scores 36/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (18.7″/yr rainfall) and about 225,964 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Potter 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 Amarillo Area Public Health District, Environmental Health Department (TCEQ authorized agent for Potter County). 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 Potter County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Potter County is allowed: Unincorporated Potter County: no county rule sets this, because Potter 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 statutes.capitol.texas.gov. 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 Potter County, Texas?

Land in Potter County runs about $1,217 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Potter County?

Potter County gets about 18.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 40.2% of years.

How remote is Potter County?

A representative private-land location has about 225,964 people within a 30-minute drive and 723,043 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 Potter compares in Texas

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