Bolthole Index

Schleicher County, Texas

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Schleicher County, Texas

46Index Score / 100
#161 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Schleicher County, Texas does not require a county building permit, and the county has no zoning ordinance: its own Permits & Regulations page lists only subdivision regulations, a county-road utility crossing permit, an access-driveway permit and septic tank permits.123 The City of Eldorado is the exception, with its own zoning-related setbacks and variances.4 Septic (OSSF) permits come from the Schleicher County authorized agent everywhere in the county except inside Eldorado.5

At a glance

Building permit
Not required; the county's own page lists its only four permits and this isn't one21
Zoning
None; no county zoning ordinance3
Septic (OSSF) permit
Required; Schleicher County is TCEQ's own authorized agent6
Owner-builder
Allowed -- there's no county building permit to be exempt from78
RVs, tiny homes, manufactured homes
Unrestricted by county zoning in unincorporated Schleicher County9
Driveway/culvert onto a county road
Commissioners Court permit required before ditch or culvert work10
Driveway onto a state highway
TxDOT Form 1058 permit required before construction11

Who to call

Also useful

Schleicher County Judge's Office (Permits & Regulations)

County permits and regulations for Schleicher County: subdivision regulations, county-road pipeline/utility crossing permits, access-driveway permits, and septic tank (OSSF)/TCEQ information

325-853-2593

cjassistant@co.schleicher.tx.us

Schleicher County Courthouse, 2 S. Divide, Eldorado, TX 76936

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

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

Schleicher County publishes an unusually direct answer: its own Permits & Regulations page states that four items -- subdivision regulations, a county-road pipeline/utility crossing permit, an access-driveway permit, and septic tank permits -- are the only permits and regulations the county has in place.1 A residential building permit is not one of them, so building a home in unincorporated Schleicher County does not require a county building permit.2 Because there is no permit to get, there is also no permit to be exempt from: you may build your own home as an owner-builder in unincorporated Schleicher County.78 State licensing for electrical, plumbing and HVAC trades can still apply even without a county building permit.7

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

The Schleicher County Judge's office handles questions about the county's permits and regulations, including septic, driveway and utility-crossing permits.12 Email questions to cjassistant@co.schleicher.tx.us or call 325-853-2593; the office is at the Schleicher County Courthouse, 2 S. Divide, Eldorado, TX 76936.12 For a driveway or culvert permit specifically, the application goes to the Commissioners Court, and the precinct commissioner confirms the correct culvert size.1012 For a driveway onto a state highway instead of a county road, contact the local TxDOT district office and file Form 1058.11

Does Schleicher County have zoning?

Unincorporated Schleicher County has no countywide zoning: the county's own Permits & Regulations page lists its only permits and regulations, and a zoning ordinance is not among them.313 Because the county has no zoning authority over unincorporated land, it sets no minimum lot size, no setbacks, no lot-coverage limit, no building-height limit and no zoning districts, and RVs, tiny homes and manufactured homes are unrestricted by county zoning.9 That is a real answer, not a research gap: it follows directly from Texas law giving a county like Schleicher no general zoning power, and Schleicher County's own page confirms it.9 Inside the City of Eldorado the answer differs: the city applies zoning-related setbacks and variances, with a non-refundable $50 variance fee and a City Council hearing, and those rules do not reach unincorporated land.4 This guide otherwise covers unincorporated Schleicher County.

How do septic (OSSF) permits work in Schleicher County?

Every on-site sewage facility in Texas needs a permit and an approved plan before construction, alteration, repair or extension, with one narrow exception.14 The exception is a "10-acre rule": a single-family home on at least 10 acres, evaluated by a licensed site evaluator or professional engineer, with every part of the OSSF at least 100 feet from the property line, no other dwelling on the tract, and no nuisance or groundwater pollution.1415 The Schleicher County Authorized Agent is current with TCEQ and serves the entire county except the City of Eldorado, so septic applications for unincorporated land go through the county rather than a TCEQ regional office.65 We could not confirm who permits septic systems inside Eldorado, so ask the County Judge's office or the city before buying there.12 An emergency repair does not need a permit first, but it must be reported in writing to the permitting authority within 72 hours after work begins.15 Plan carefully here: none of Schleicher County's soils are free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so expect to need an engineered or alternative system almost everywhere in the county.16

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

Yes, with conditions: unincorporated Schleicher County has no zoning ordinance, so it sets no rule restricting RV, tiny-home or manufactured-home occupancy on private land, a direct result of Texas law giving the county no general zoning power.9 The same lack of zoning means there is no minimum dwelling size and no accessory-dwelling rule in unincorporated Schleicher County.9 Any wastewater system connected to the RV, tiny home or manufactured home still needs an OSSF permit through the county's own TCEQ-authorized program.614 And any new driveway or culvert onto a county road still needs a Commissioners Court permit, whatever kind of home it serves.10

Building on land in Schleicher County: the steps, in order

  1. Confirm the parcel is in unincorporated Schleicher County rather than inside Eldorado city limits; this guide covers the unincorporated county, where the county itself has no zoning and no building-permit requirement.32
  2. Email cjassistant@co.schleicher.tx.us or call 325-853-2593 with any permits question -- the County Judge's office handles septic, driveway and utility-crossing permits for Schleicher County.12
  3. Building a new entry from a county road that needs ditch work or a culvert? Submit an application to the Commissioners Court, and confirm the culvert size with your precinct commissioner.10
  4. Start construction within six months of that driveway permit's issuance, or it becomes void; give the county at least 24 hours' notice before you begin the authorized work.10
  5. Building a driveway onto a state highway instead? File TxDOT Form 1058 and give 24 hours' notice before construction.11
  6. Get your septic (OSSF) plan approved and permitted through Schleicher County's own TCEQ-authorized program before you dig.614
  7. No county building permit is required for the home itself, and as an owner-builder you may do the construction yourself, though state trade licensing can still apply to electrical, plumbing and HVAC work.78

What to check before you buy land in Schleicher County, Texas

Septic is the biggest constraint to plan around: none of Schleicher County's soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field, so budget for an engineered or alternative OSSF system on essentially any parcel.16 The land itself is gentle and open -- 99% sits at 15% slope or less, with only 4.4% wooded -- and the county sees severe drought in about 23.4% of years, worth planning for with any well.171819 Schleicher County is rural and remote, with 2,391 residents at about 1.8 people per square mile, roughly 118 miles from the nearest metro area.202122 Any new driveway or culvert onto a county road needs a Commissioners Court permit, and the county can charge up to $500 to fix an improperly built one if you don't address it within 10 days of written notice.10 Property taxes run an effective 1.4% rate, with a median annual bill of $1,621.2324

Watch-outs

  • Schleicher County's own page lists only four permits/regulations (subdivision, county-road pipeline/utility crossing, access driveway, and septic); anything not on that list, including building inspections and certificates of occupancy, remains unconfirmed rather than confirmed 'not required.'1
  • A driveway/culvert permit on a Schleicher County road becomes void if you don't build within six months of issuance, and you owe the county 24 hours' notice before starting work.10
  • Land inside the City of Eldorado follows separate city rules; confirm whether a parcel is inside city limits before relying on this guide's unincorporated-county answers.3
  • We could not confirm whether a water well needs a permit from the Plateau Underground Water Conservation & Supply District; ask the District or the County Judge's office before drilling.12

Sources

  1. Permits & Regulations | Schleicher County, TX, quoted and re-checked
  2. Permits & Regulations | Schleicher County, TX (2026 county census)
  3. Permits & Regulations | Schleicher County, TX (2026 county census)
  4. Permits & Regulations | Schleicher County, TX, quoted and re-checked
  5. TCEQ OARS — Schleicher County Authorized Agent, quoted and re-checked
  6. TCEQ OARS — Schleicher County Authorized Agent (2026 county census)
  7. Permits & Regulations | Schleicher County, TX (2026 county census)
  8. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  9. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  10. Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way, quoted and re-checked
  11. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Schleicher County Judge's Office (Permits & Regulations) (schleichercounty.gov)
  13. Permits & Regulations | Schleicher County, TX, quoted and re-checked
  14. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  16. 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
  17. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  18. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  19. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  20. County population: Bolthole Index county data
  21. Population density: Bolthole Index county data
  22. Straight-line distance from the county center to the nearest city of 100,000+ people: Bolthole Index county data
  23. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  24. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 10, 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, Schleicher County has no countywide zoning.

RuleSchleicher CountySutton CountyTom Green CountyIrion CountyMenard CountyConcho CountyCrockett County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredLimited
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsSchleicher CountySutton CountyCounty Env. HealthTCEQMenardCounty OSSF ProgramTCEQ

County locator

Schleicher County in Texas

46
County map
Schleicher County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Schleicher County scores

Seclusion87100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1596% ev.
Admin Boringness92100% ev.
Durability35100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% 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 →

$113kTypical home
1.4%Property tax
$1,569Land / acre
22.1"Annual rain
23.4% of yrsSevere drought
36.1 / yr (+26.4)Mid-century 100°F days
32.6 daysMid-century dry spell
1.81" (+7.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.32×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,365Home insurance / yr
-1.6% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
167,206People within 2 hr
2,441Radius comparison (15 mi)
1.8People / sq mi
0%Federal land
99%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
4.4%Wooded land
4.7 tonsBiomass / forest ac
64.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Schleicher 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.

Eldorado

Answers from the rulebook for Schleicher County

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

Schleicher County rules

  • Building permitNot required

    County-administered building-permit requirements in Schleicher County, Texas.

    • The county page states that the listed permits and regulations are the only ones Schleicher County has in place.
    • Subdivision regulations, utility-crossing permits, access-driveway permits, and septic-tank permitting remain separately applicable where their conditions are met.
    • This claim concerns county requirements; incorporated municipalities may impose their own rules.
    “Below are the only Permits/Regulations Schleicher County has in place, any updates to our policies will be reflected here.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

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

    • The county page states that the listed permits and regulations are the only ones Schleicher County has in place.
    • Subdivision regulations, utility-crossing permits, access-driveway permits, and septic-tank permitting remain separately applicable where their conditions are met.
    “Below are the only Permits/Regulations Schleicher County has in place, any updates to our policies will be reflected here.”
  • Building code adoptedNot adopted

    County building-code adoption in unincorporated Schleicher County.

    • The county page's exhaustive statement concerns county permits and regulations; incorporated municipalities may adopt separate building codes.
    • The page separately lists septic, subdivision, pipeline or utility crossing, and driveway regulations/permits.
    “Below are the only Permits/Regulations Schleicher County has in place, any updates to our policies will be reflected here. Subdivision Regulations Application/Permit to Cross County Road to Construct Pipeline or Utility Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way Septic Tank Permits and TCEQ information”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    County zoning regulation administered by Schleicher County across the county; the official county page states that the listed permits and regulations are the only ones the county has in place.

    • The county page lists subdivision regulations, pipeline or utility crossing permits, highway-right-of-way driveway permits, and septic-tank permitting information.
    • This claim concerns county-administered regulation and does not determine zoning administered by incorporated municipalities.
    “Below are the only Permits/Regulations Schleicher County has in place, any updates to our policies will be reflected here.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — County zoning regulations in unincorporated Schleicher County.
      “Below are the only Permits/Regulations Schleicher County has in place, any updates to our policies will be reflected here. Subdivision Regulations Application/Permit to Cross County Road to Construct Pipeline or Utility Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way Septic Tank Permits and TCEQ information”
  • Local zoningAbsent

    Zoning regulations administered by Schleicher County, Texas.

    • The county describes its listed regulations as its only permits/regulations and lists subdivision regulations, county-road utility-crossing permits, highway-right-of-way driveway permits, and septic-tank/TCEQ information; it does not list a county zoning regulation.
    • This claim addresses Schleicher County's regulations and does not determine whether an incorporated municipality within the county administers its own zoning ordinance.
    • Subdivision, septic, road/utility-crossing, and driveway requirements listed by the county remain applicable as described by their respective county or state authorities.
    “Below are the only Permits/Regulations Schleicher County has in place, any updates to our policies will be reflected here. Subdivision Regulations Application/Permit to Cross County Road to Construct Pipeline or Utility Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way Septic Tank Permits and TCEQ information”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of local zoning within Schleicher County: county-administered unincorporated areas and the City of Eldorado. The county page states the county has only the listed permits and regulations, while the City of Eldorado publishes a zoning-variance process.
      “4) Bring the filled out application to City Hall with the non-refundable $50 variance fee”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    On-site sewage facilities in Schleicher County outside the City of Eldorado.

    • TCEQ identifies the Schleicher County Authorized Agent as current and states that its area served is the entire county except the City of Eldorado.
    “Authorized Agent | SCHLEICHER COUNTY AUTHORIZED AGENT [...] Area Served | entire County except City of Eldorado [...] Status | Current”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, and operation of OSSFs in the area served by the Schleicher County Authorized Agent.

    • A permit and approved plan are generally required before construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, or operation.
    • The 10-acre exemption applies only if all stated conditions are met: site evaluation by a TCEQ-licensed site evaluator or professional engineer; 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; effluent disposed of on the property; and the single-family dwelling is the only dwelling on the tract.
    • Emergency repairs listed by TCEQ are exempt from permitting 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 authorized program or before September 1, 1989, whichever is earlier, and are not causing a nuisance, are not in need of repair, and have not had a significant increase in use or otherwise been altered.
    • Local permitting requirements may be more stringent than state minimums.

    minimum tract size for 10-acre exemption: >= 10 acres (Only when all other TCEQ exemption conditions are met.) · minimum setback for all OSSF parts under 10-acre exemption: >= 100 feet from property line (Only when all other TCEQ exemption conditions are met.) · emergency repair report deadline: <= 72 hours after repairs begin (Applies to listed emergency repairs exempt from permitting.)

    “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. Always check with your local permitting authority. Local permitting programs can be more stringent than State minimums.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    A new entry onto property from a county-maintained public road in Schleicher County that requires ditch work or culvert installation, and access driveways on county-road right-of-way.

    • The property owner must submit an application to the Commissioners Court for a permit authorizing the ditch work or culvert installation.
    • The property owner must contact the precinct commissioner to confirm the appropriate culvert diameter and length for adequate water flow and safe entry.
    • Schleicher County Road and Bridge cannot approve culverts in rights-of-way for state roads or on private roads.
    • The property owner is responsible for culvert purchase costs, marking the installation location, calling Texas 811 before digging, maintenance and repairs, and road hazards or right-of-way damage caused by the work.
    • Construction and materials are subject to county inspection and approval; changes in design require county approval.
    • The driveway facilities must be constructed within six months from the permit issuance date or the permit becomes null and void.
    • The permit holder must contact the county representative at least 24 hours before beginning authorized work.
    • If improper installation or functioning is not addressed within 10 days after written notice, the county may perform corrective actions for a charge not to exceed $500.00.
    • The requesting party must indemnify Schleicher County and its agents and employees.

    service-fixture setback from right-of-way: >= 12 feet (Vehicle service fixtures such as service pumps, vendor stands, or tanks; regulatory and guide signs at county roads and city streets are excepted.) · construction deadline after permit issuance: 6 months (Permit becomes null and void if facilities are not constructed within this period.) · notice before beginning work: >= 24 hours · county corrective-action charge: <= 500 USD (Applies if improper installation or functioning is not addressed within 10 days after written notice.)

    “A property owner creating a new entry onto property from a county maintained public road that will require ditch work and/or culvert installation, must submit an application to the Commissioners Court for a permit authorizing such work or installation.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    A charge associated with county corrective action for an improperly installed or improperly functioning culvert connected to a county-maintained right-of-way driveway entry.

    • The property owner must receive written notice of improper installation or improper functioning.
    • The issue must remain unaddressed for 10 days after notice.
    • The county performs the corrective action.
    • The charge does not exceed $500.00.
    • The published county permits page states that the listed permits and regulations are the only ones Schleicher County has in place; no general county permit-fee schedule was located.

    corrective-action charge: <= 500 USD (Applies after written notice and failure to address the improper installation or functioning within 10 days.)

    “Schleicher County will notify property owner in writing of improper install or improper functioning culvert. If not addressed in 10 days the County will perform the corrective actions for a charge not to exceed $500.00.”
  • Permit processPartial

    County-administered permits and regulations in Schleicher County, including subdivision, county-road pipeline or utility crossings, access driveways on highway right-of-way, and septic/TCEQ information.

    • The county page states that the listed items are the only permits/regulations the county has in place and that updates will be reflected on that page.
    • The page lists subdivision regulations, an application/permit to cross a county road to construct a pipeline or utility, a permit to construct access driveway facilities on highway right-of-way, and septic tank permits/TCEQ information.
    • The page directs questions to the county by email or telephone.
    “Below are the only Permits/Regulations Schleicher County has in place, any updates to our policies will be reflected here. Subdivision Regulations Application/Permit to Cross County Road to Construct Pipeline or Utility Permit to Construct Access Driveway Facilities on Highway Right of Way Septic Tank Permits and TCEQ information”

Texas rules that apply here

  • Septic inspectionLimited

    OSSFs in Schleicher County that are subject to a maintenance contract or maintenance-provider service, including applicable aerobic-treatment systems.

    • The source states that the maintenance company or maintenance provider must inspect system components during each site visit.
    • If a component is not operating properly, the property owner must have it repaired.
    • The maintenance provider must submit a report to the permitting authority and owner at least once every four months.
    • The reporting frequency may be reduced to once every six months if the system uses an electronic monitor, automatic radio, or telephone to notify the maintenance provider of system or component failure and to monitor disinfection.
    • The report must include responses to property-owner complaints and electronic-monitoring notices and be submitted within 14 days after testing.
    • The source notes that permitting authorities may adopt more stringent requirements.

    maintenance report frequency: per 4 months (May be reduced to once every six months if the stated electronic monitoring, automatic radio, or telephone conditions are met.) · report submission deadline after test: <= 14 days

    “Inspect components of the system and note whether or not every component is working during each site visit;”
    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”:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Domestic sewage treatment and disposal by an OSSF or septic system in Schleicher County, subject to Texas requirements and the local authorized agent.
      “Almost all OSSFs must have a permit prior to any construction, installation, repair, extension, or other alteration.”
    • 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.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Drilling, equipping, operating, or completing a water well, or substantially altering a well or well pump, where the well is within a groundwater conservation district in Texas.

    • A groundwater conservation district must require a permit except as provided by Texas Water Code §36.117.
    • A district may not require a permit or permit amendment for maintenance or repair that does not increase production capability above the authorized or permitted production rate.
    • Permit applications must be in writing and sworn.
    • Whether a particular private well is exempt or subject to additional district requirements depends on the applicable groundwater conservation district's rules.

    permit application form: in writing and sworn

    “Except as provided by Section 36.117, a district shall require a permit for the drilling, equipping, operating, or completing of wells or for substantially altering the size of wells or well pumps.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Subdivision platting in Schleicher County on tracts located outside municipal limits.

    • The owner must divide the tract into two or more parts.
    • The owner must not lay out a part of the tract described by Local Government Code Section 232.001(a)(3), concerning streets, alleys, squares, parks, or other portions intended for public use or for use of purchasers or adjacent lot owners.
    • The land must be used primarily for agricultural use under Section 1-d, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production use under Section 1-d-1, Article VIII, Texas Constitution.
    • If the tract ceases to be used primarily for the qualifying agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production use, the platting requirements apply.
    • The exemption is subject to Section 232.0013; the statute also states that the subchapter does not apply to land governed by Subchapter B or G, except as provided by Section 232.0013.
    • This is a subdivision platting exemption and does not establish an exemption from septic, floodplain, or other applicable requirements.
    “(c) A county may not require the owner of a tract of land located outside the limits of a municipality who divides the tract into two or more parts to have a plat of the subdivision prepared if: (1) the owner does not lay out a part of the tract described by Section 232.001(a)(3); and (2) the land is to be used primarily for agricultural use, as defined by Section 1-d, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production use within the meaning of Section 1-d-1, Article VIII, Texas Constitution. (d) If a tract described by Subsection (c) ceases to be used primarily for agricultural use or for farm, ranch, wildlife management, or timber production use, the platting requirements of this subchapter apply.”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • Inspections — Building inspections administered by Schleicher County.
  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy administered by Schleicher County.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Requirements to connect a parcel or dwelling to public water or sanitary sewer service in Schleicher County.
  • Building in a floodplain — Development in floodplains in Schleicher County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Schleicher County.

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

Living off-grid in Schleicher County, Texas

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

Schleicher County scores 46/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and deep seclusion — about 2,441 people within 15 miles. Watch-outs: thin water margin (22.1″/yr rainfall) and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

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

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

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

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

How much does land cost in Schleicher County, Texas?

Land in Schleicher County runs about $1,569 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Schleicher County?

Schleicher County gets about 22.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 23.4% of years.

How remote is Schleicher County?

A typical private-land location has about 2,441 people within 15 miles and 493,332 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Schleicher compares in Texas

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