Bolthole Index

Scurry County, Texas

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

48Index Score / 100
#151 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Scurry County, Texas does not require a county building permit for an ordinary home and has no general county zoning12. Inside Snyder, most construction needs city building permits and inspections, and city zoning applies34. Septic systems generally need separate approval; start with the Scurry County Health Unit to confirm the permitting authority, and obtain city plumbing-inspector approval for an eligible private system inside Snyder5678.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required in unincorporated Scurry County; the county has no building-permit department1
Zoning
No general county zoning on unincorporated land; Snyder has city zoning24
Septic permits
Generally required; ask the Scurry County Health Unit whether it or TCEQ accepts the application9107
RV, tiny home & manufactured home siting
Unrestricted by county zoning in unincorporated areas, since Scurry County has none11
Game-room permit
Required for game rooms outside Snyder; the Sheriff's Office administers the county process12
City of Snyder
Most construction needs city building permits and inspections; city zoning and adopted codes apply3413
Driveway onto a state highway
A fully executed TxDOT permit is required, with 24 hours' notice before construction on the right of way14
Septic soils
Only 26.8% of the county's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field15

Who to call

Septic permits

Scurry County Health Unit

On-site sewage facility (OSSF/septic) permits and inspections for Scurry County, where the county itself — not a neighboring city or the TCEQ regional office — is the TCEQ-authorized permitting agent

325-573-3508

healthunit@co.scurry.tx.us

911 26th Street, Snyder, TX 79549

Also useful

Scurry County Judge and Commissioners Court

General courthouse contact for county business without its own dedicated department page, including road and driveway questions on county roads, which the individual precinct commissioners handle

325-573-9316

1806 25th St, Snyder, TX 79549

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

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Scurry 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 Scurry County, Texas?

Unincorporated Scurry County does not require a county building permit for an ordinary home1. Texas law allows qualifying counties to adopt residential standards and inspections, but we could not confirm Scurry County adopted the necessary order; ask the Commissioners Court before construction161718. Inside Snyder, most construction projects require city building permits and inspections3. Snyder lists the 2021 international building and residential codes and the 2023 National Electrical Code, with possible local amendments13. Septic remains a separate approval under Texas OSSF rules; eligible private disposal systems inside Snyder also need city plumbing-inspector approval58.

Who issues building permits in Scurry County, and how do you reach them?

Scurry County lists no building-permit department for an ordinary home on unincorporated land1. Snyder’s Planning & Development Services Department handles city building permits and inspections193. Start rural septic questions with the Scurry County Health Unit and confirm whether the Health Unit or TCEQ accepts the parcel’s application76. Inside Snyder, eligible private sewage systems also require the city plumbing inspector’s approval8. The Sheriff’s Office administers a separate game-room permit outside Snyder; the nonrefundable annual applicant fee is $1,000, with a $300 annual fee for each permitted video-gaming employee1220.

Does Scurry County have zoning?

Unincorporated Scurry County has no general county zoning2. County zoning sets no minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setbacks, height or lot-coverage limits there, and does not restrict accessory dwellings, RV living, tiny homes, manufactured homes or temporary camping on private land11. Subdivision platting remains separate: qualifying land divisions outside municipal limits need a plat, subject to statutory exceptions and applicable municipal extraterritorial-jurisdiction rules21. The agricultural-use exception requires qualifying primary use and no public-use streets or other public-use areas; platting requirements apply if the qualifying use ends22. Inside Snyder, city zoning applies4. Septic approval remains separate under Texas OSSF rules, with city plumbing-inspector approval also required for eligible Snyder private sewage systems58.

How do septic permits work in Scurry County?

A septic permit and approved plan are generally required before constructing, altering, repairing, extending or operating an on-site sewage facility in Scurry County5. Start with the Scurry County Health Unit and confirm the permitting authority; TCEQ’s regional office handles locations without an authorized local jurisdiction76. Submit the application and planning materials to that authority, which must approve or deny them within 30 days of receipt23. Permitted systems receive a construction inspection; the installer must give at least 5 working days’ notice before the system is ready24. A 10-acre exemption requires a licensed site evaluation, compliance with other state standards, only a single-family dwelling on the tract, no nuisance or groundwater pollution, all system parts at least 100 feet from property lines, and on-property effluent disposal25. Only 26.8% of Scurry County soils are free of severe limitations for conventional drain fields, so arrange the site evaluation early15.

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

County zoning does not restrict RV living, tiny-home occupancy, manufactured-home occupancy or temporary camping on private land in unincorporated Scurry County11. Off-grid sanitation still falls under Texas OSSF requirements: septic systems and holding tanks generally need a permit, and an OSSF may accept domestic sewage but not industrial or hazardous waste2627. Inside Snyder, check the proposed use against city zoning and building-permit requirements; eligible private sewage systems also need city plumbing-inspector approval438. We could not confirm a countywide water-connection requirement or the applicable private-well permitting authority; ask the serving utility and the Scurry County Health Unit before relying on a self-supplied water plan7.

What are the steps to build a home in Scurry County?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is inside Snyder, because the city issues building permits, performs inspections and enforces zoning there34; eligible private sewage systems also need city plumbing-inspector approval8.
  2. For an ordinary home in unincorporated Scurry County, no county building permit is required1.
  3. Contact the Scurry County Health Unit about the septic permit and confirm whether the county or TCEQ accepts the OSSF application for the parcel710.
  4. Complete the septic site evaluation early because only 26.8% of county soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field15.
  5. If dividing land, determine whether a plat is required or whether the agricultural-use exemption fits the division2122.
  6. Obtain a fully executed TxDOT driveway permit before work in a state-highway right of way, then give TxDOT 24 hours' notice before construction14.
  7. Ask the Commissioners Court about county-road access because we could not confirm a county-road entrance permit process18.

What should you check before buying land in Scurry County?

Start with septic: only 26.8% of Scurry County soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so test the site before committing to a homesite15. Confirm the water source too; the county averages 21.2 inches of precipitation a year and experiences severe drought in 33.5% of years2829. We could not confirm which groundwater conservation district, if any, regulates a particular private well, or whether a public connection is required, so ask the serving utility and the Scurry County Health Unit before closing7. The terrain is broadly gentle, with 93.6% of land at a slope of 15% or less, but only 3.4% is wooded3031. Check whether a proposed split needs a plat, whether access is from a county road or state highway, and whether the parcel lies inside Snyder21144. The effective property-tax rate is about 1.6%, and the median annual bill is about $1,7613233.

Watch-outs

  • The agricultural platting exemption lasts only while the land meets its qualifying-use conditions; the exemption does not remove wastewater or other applicable requirements22.
  • Confirm the Scurry County septic application authority and local inspection schedule with the Health Unit; Texas’s authorized-agent framework alone does not establish Scurry County’s delegation or jurisdiction7346.
  • Texas's owner-builder provision excuses a qualifying primary-residence builder from a notice penalty only when the county inspection subchapter applies; it does not waive the inspections themselves35.
  • Only TCEQ-listed emergency septic repairs bypass permitting, and those repairs must be reported in writing within 72 hours after work begins25.

Sources

  1. Texas county building-permit authority (Bexar County FAQ, TX LG Code Ch. 233) (2026 county census)
  2. Texas Local Government Code Ch. 231 (county land-use/zoning authority) (2026 county census)
  3. Snyder: Build or Develop (Scurry County), quoted and re-checked
  4. Snyder: Zoning Ordinance — R-1 Single-Family Residential District Regulations (Scurry County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  6. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  7. Scurry County Health Unit (co.scurry.tx.us)
  8. Snyder: Individual sewage disposal system (Scurry County), quoted and re-checked
  9. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  10. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  11. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  12. Scurry County Game Room Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  13. Adopted Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  14. Section 4: Driveway Permits, Design, and Materials, quoted and re-checked
  15. 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
  16. Local Government Code Chapter 233, County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233, quoted and re-checked
  18. Scurry County Judge and Commissioners Court (co.scurry.tx.us)
  19. Ordinance No. 2132, City of Snyder, quoted and re-checked
  20. Scurry County Game Room Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  21. Local Government Code Chapter 232, County Regulation of Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  22. Local Government Code Chapter 232, County Regulation of Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  23. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  24. Chapter 285 – On-Site Sewage Facilities, quoted and re-checked
  25. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  26. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  27. Basics for Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  28. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  33. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  34. How to Become a Texas On-Site Sewage Facility (Septic System) Authorized Agent, quoted and re-checked
  35. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 233, quoted and re-checked

Written October 11, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleScurry CountyFisher CountyBorden CountyMitchell CountyKent CountyGarza CountyNolan County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsScurry CountyTCEQTCEQMitchell CountyTCEQ Region 3Garza CountyTCEQ

County locator

Scurry County in Texas

48
County map
Scurry County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Scurry County scores

Seclusion70100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1696% ev.
Admin Boringness8790% ev.
Durability44100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost8096% 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 →

$142kTypical home
1.6%Property tax
$1,279Land / acre
21.2"Annual rain
33.5% of yrsSevere drought
44.2 / yr (+29.4)Mid-century 100°F days
31.4 daysMid-century dry spell
1.56" (+5.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.27×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,587Home insurance / yr
0.1% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
14,448People within 30 min
872,483People within 2 hr
14,338Radius comparison (15 mi)
17.9People / sq mi
0%Federal land
93.6%Land at 15% slope or less
26.8%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
154,391 acWorkable land screen
3.4%Wooded land
5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
63.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Scurry 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.

Answers from the rulebook for Scurry County

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

Scurry County rules

  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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.”
  • Setbacks · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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.”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Annual county permit fees for game-room license applicants in Scurry County outside the incorporated city limits of Snyder.

    • The ordinance applies outside the incorporated city limits of Snyder, Texas.
    • The fee is nonrefundable and annual.
    • The fee provision does not apply to current licensed establishments until renewal of their licenses.
    • The ordinance separately states that video-gaming employees pay a nonrefundable annual fee of $300.00 for each permitted employee.

    annual game-room applicant fee: 1000 USD (nonrefundable; does not apply to current licensed establishments until renewal) · annual video-gaming employee permit fee: 300 USD (per permitted employee)

    “a nonrefundable annual fee of $1,000.00 shall be paid”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Scurry County game-room permit administration outside the incorporated city limits of Snyder, Texas.

    • The Scurry County Sheriff’s Office is the designated permit administrator.
    • The regulations apply strictly outside the incorporated city limits of Snyder.
    • Applications must use county-prescribed forms and include the information requested by the county.
    • The permit office may deny, issue, condition, suspend, or revoke permits.
    • Operating in violation of the ordinance is a Class A misdemeanor.
    “The Commissioners Court designates the Scurry County Sheriff’s Office as the game room permit administrator”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Game-room permits in Scurry County outside the incorporated city limits of Snyder, Texas.
      “The Commissioners Court designates the Scurry County Sheriff’s Office as the game room permit administrator known as the “Permit Office.” [...] These regulations STRICTLY apply to any game room in which is located in Scurry County, outside the incorporated city limits of Snyder, TX.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Texas counties have no general zoning authority in unincorporated areas; only cities/ETJ arrangements can zone, so unincorporated Scurry County is unzoned.

    Texas Local Government Code Ch. 231 (county land-use/zoning authority) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Texas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

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

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

    An individual building qualifying new residential construction under Chapter 233, Subchapter F or acting as the individual's own contractor.

    • The individual must build the new residential construction or act as the individual's own contractor.
    • The individual must intend to use the residence as the individual's primary residence.
    • The exemption is from the penalty under § 233.157 for failure to provide required notice; it does not eliminate the underlying inspection requirements.
    • The subchapter must apply to the county through county adoption and the statutory eligibility conditions.
    “is not subject to a penalty under this subsection”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — An owner performing electrical, plumbing, or air-conditioning and refrigeration work on the owner's own residence or homestead in Texas.
      “A person who perform electrical work on a dwelling that they own and reside in is not required by the state to be licensed as electricians.”
    • Conditional — Electrical work on a dwelling owned and occupied by the property owner in Texas.
      “A person who perform electrical work on a dwelling that they own and reside in is not required by the state to be licensed”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

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

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

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

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

    New residential construction described by Local Government Code § 233.153 in an unincorporated area of a county to which Chapter 233, Subchapter F applies.

    • For construction on a vacant lot, at least three inspections are required: foundation before concrete, framing and mechanical systems before drywall or other interior wall covering, and completion.
    • For qualifying additions, inspections are performed as necessary based on the scope of work.
    • The builder must contract with an authorized inspector category listed in § 233.154(a)(3).
    • The county may require pre-construction notice and notice of final inspection results.
    • The subchapter applies only after county adoption of a resolution or order and satisfaction of the statutory county-eligibility condition.

    minimum inspections for vacant-lot construction: >= 3 inspections (Additions are inspected as necessary based on scope of work.)

    “shall have the construction inspected to ensure building code compliance”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    OSSF permitting, inspection, and administration throughout Texas.

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

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

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

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

    “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, and operation of OSSFs in Scurry County under Texas OSSF rules
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF.”
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF in Scurry County, subject to Texas exceptions and any stricter local requirements.
      “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    • Limited — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, and operation of OSSFs in Scurry County, subject to state exceptions and any stricter local requirements
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. [...] An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule””
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, repair, and operation of OSSFs in Scurry County under Texas OSSF rules.
      “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an OSSF in Texas
      “A permit is required to construct, install, alter, extend, or repair an OSSF. [...] An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Construction inspection of permitted OSSFs in Scurry County.

    • The installer must notify the permitting authority at least five working days before the OSSF will be ready for inspection.
    • The permitting authority must conduct a construction inspection.
    • If the OSSF fails inspection, it cannot be used until it passes inspection, and the permitting authority must provide the deficiencies in writing within seven calendar days.
    • A reinspection fee may be assessed and must be paid before reinspection.
    • No planning materials, permit, or inspections are required for a qualifying single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres if the OSSF is not causing a nuisance or polluting groundwater, all parts are at least 100 feet from the property line, effluent is disposed of on the property, and the single-family dwelling is the only dwelling on the tract.
    • Grandfathered systems meeting the rule's conditions are exempt from the chapter's permitting, operation, and installation requirements.

    advance inspection notice: 5 working days (Monday through Friday, excluding holidays) · post-inspection deficiency letter: 7 calendar days

    “The permitting authority shall conduct a construction inspection.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Inspection of OSSF installations in Scurry County when the applicable local authority operates through the Texas OSSF authorized-agent structure.
      “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.”
    • Limited — OSSF inspections conducted by an authorized agent in Scurry County if Scurry County has an approved authorized-agent program
      “The authorized agent is responsible for [...] conducting inspections”
    • Limited — Inspection of OSSFs administered through a TCEQ-authorized agent in Scurry County or elsewhere in the agent's jurisdiction
      “The authorized agent is responsible for the proper implementation of Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 366, 30 TAC Chapter 285, including reviewing OSSF permit applications, conducting inspections, investigating complaints, and more. The agent also administers the OSSF program according to the OSSF order, ordinance, or resolution approved by the executive director within the agent's area of jurisdiction.”
    • 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 sanitation using an onsite sewage facility, including septic systems and holding tanks, in Texas

    • A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF, subject to the stated exceptions.
    • A 10-acre permitting exemption requires a site evaluation by a TCEQ-licensed Site Evaluator or Professional Engineer; a single-family dwelling on a tract of at least 10 acres; no nuisance or groundwater pollution; all OSSF parts at least 100 feet from the property line; effluent disposal on the property; and the single-family dwelling as the only dwelling on the tract.
    • Emergency repairs are exempt from permitting but must be reported to the permitting authority in writing within 72 hours after repairs have begun.
    • A grandfathered OSSF may not need a permit if installed before a local program had an authorized program or before September 1, 1989, whichever is earlier, and it is not creating a nuisance, is not in need of repair, and has had no significant increase in use or other alteration.
    • Local permitting programs can be more stringent than state minimums; the local permitting authority for Scurry County was not established.

    minimum tract size for 10-acre exemption: >= 10 acres (single-family dwelling and all other listed conditions must be met) · minimum setback from property line for 10-acre exemption: >= 100 feet (all parts of the OSSF) · emergency-repair report deadline: <= 72 hours (after repairs have begun)

    “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”:”
    6 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Off-grid sanitation using an OSSF, septic system, or holding tank in Scurry County, subject to Texas OSSF permitting and local-authority requirements
      “Permits are required for on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs) including septic systems and holding tanks. This page offers guidance on selecting a system and installer.”
    • Limited — Off-grid residential sanitation using an OSSF or septic system in Scurry County
      “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF. [...] An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule””
    • Limited — Off-grid sanitation using an OSSF in Scurry County.
      “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”:”
    • Limited — Off-grid sanitation using an on-site sewage facility or septic system in Texas, including Scurry County.
      “Almost all OSSFs must have a permit prior to any construction, installation, repair, extension, or other alteration. [...] OSSFs can handle only domestic sewage. Industrial or hazardous waste cannot enter an OSSF; this waste will be treated in the soil and will ruin an OSSF by literally killing the bacteria that break down the biosolids. Remember: septic systems are designed to handle human waste, not chemicals.”
    • Limited — Composting toilets used as on-site sewage facility treatment systems in Texas.
      “Composting toilets will be approved by the executive director provided the system has been tested and certified under NSF International Standard 41 (1999) or under any other standards approved by the executive director.”
    • Limited — Off-grid wastewater sanitation through an OSSF in Texas.
      “An OSSF may be exempt from permitting if it complies with all other requirements, including planning, construction, and installation standards of 30 TAC 285 AND meets the “10 acre rule”:”
  • 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 exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Division of land outside municipal limits in Texas, including applicable unincorporated areas of Scurry County, when the land will be used primarily for agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production purposes.

    • The tract must be located outside the limits of a municipality.
    • The owner must divide the tract into two or more parts without laying out a part described by Local Government Code § 232.001(a)(3).
    • The land must be used primarily for agricultural use as defined by Article VIII, § 1-d of the Texas Constitution, or for farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production use within the meaning of Article VIII, § 1-d-1.
    • If the tract ceases to be used primarily for the qualifying agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production purpose, the platting requirements apply.
    • The exemption is from the county platting requirement; other applicable state, county, municipal, floodplain, wastewater, septic, or recording requirements may still apply.

    minimum division size: two or more parts (the statutory agricultural exception does not apply if the division lays out a part described by § 232.001(a)(3)) · loss of exemption: platting requirements apply (if the tract ceases to be used primarily for the qualifying use)

    “the land is to be used primarily for agricultural use”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production land outside municipal limits in Scurry County when divided into two or more parts without laying out a part described by Section 232.001(a)(3).
      “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.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production divisions of land outside municipal limits in Scurry County, Texas.
      “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.”
    • Available (with conditions) — A tract in Scurry County outside municipal limits divided into two or more parts without laying out a public-use street, alley, square, park, or other public-use area, when the land is primarily used for agricultural, farm, ranch, wildlife-management, or timber-production purposes.
      “A county may not require [...] a plat of the subdivision prepared if: [...] the land is to be used primarily for agricultural use”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and platting of land outside municipal limits in Texas, including applicable unincorporated areas of Scurry County.

    • A plat is required only when the statutory conditions apply.
    • The county commissioners court must approve a required plat by order entered in the court minutes.
    • The statute provides exceptions, including qualifying agricultural-use divisions, certain related-party transfers, lots larger than 10 acres, veterans' land-program sales, and other statutory exceptions.
    • A commissioners court may impose a plat application fee to cover review and inspection of street, road, and drainage improvements; the fee may vary by lots, acreage, and proposed improvements.
    • Any applicable municipal limits or extraterritorial-jurisdiction agreements may alter which authority regulates the subdivision.

    plat approval authority: commissioners court (or a county authority responsible for approving plats where authorized by law) · application decision period: 30 days (after receipt of a completed application, subject to statutory exceptions) · plat application fee: cost-based fee permitted (may vary based on proposed lots, acreage, street or drainage improvements, or other reasonable criteria)

    “The owner of a tract of land located outside the limits of a municipality must have a plat of the subdivision prepared”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision platting in Scurry County outside municipal limits, under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 232.
      “The owner of a tract of land located outside the limits of a municipality must have a plat of the subdivision prepared if the owner divides the tract into two or more parts to lay out:”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision platting for land in unincorporated Scurry County, Texas, under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 232.
      “Sec. 232.001. PLAT REQUIRED. (a) The owner of a tract of land located outside the limits of a municipality must have a plat of the subdivision prepared if the owner divides the tract into two or more parts to lay out:”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in Scurry County outside the limits of a municipality, including divisions into lots or public-use streets and other areas.
      “The owner of a tract of land located outside the limits of a municipality must have a plat of the subdivision prepared if [...]”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway access from property in Scurry County to a state highway right-of-way administered by TxDOT.

    • No driveway construction may begin in the right-of-way until a fully executed driveway permit is received and 24-hour notice is given to TxDOT.
    • TxDOT reviews construction and may require modifications; the installation is authorized only after satisfactory completion.
    • Drainage impacts must be coordinated with and approved by TxDOT before any local approval.
    • Private residential driveways may not exceed 24 feet, except for permissible radii, and the connecting radius may not be less than 15 feet.
    • State-highway side-ditch drainage may not be altered or impeded without TxDOT approval.
    • Required drainage structures must meet TxDOT-approved size and design requirements, including safety end treatments and no culvert headwalls or similar vertical ends.
    • The cited TxDOT material governs state-highway access; it does not establish a county-road permit process.

    maximum private residential driveway width: <= 24 feet (measured at right angles to the driveway centerline; may be increased by permissible radii) · minimum driveway connection radius: >= 15 feet · advance notice to TxDOT: 24 hours (after receipt of a fully executed permit and before right-of-way construction)

    “No construction work on the driveway shall be undertaken on the right of way until a fully executed driveway permit has been received”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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 Scurry County

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction, remodeling, installations, and maintenance of buildings and structures within the City of Snyder, Scurry County, Texas.

    • The City of Snyder page states that construction and development within the city must comply with the adopted building codes.
    • The listed editions are 2021 IBC, IRC, IPC, IMC, IFGC, IPMC, and IFC, plus the 2023 NEC.
    • The city states that local amendments may be adopted through the City Code of Ordinances.
    • The page does not state an effective or adoption date for the listed code editions.
    • This source does not establish that any county-administered building code applies outside incorporated municipalities.

    International Building Code edition: 2021 · International Residential Code edition: 2021 · International Plumbing Code edition: 2021 · International Mechanical Code edition: 2021 · International Fuel Gas Code edition: 2021 · International Property Maintenance Code edition: 2021 · International Fire Code edition: 2021 · National Electrical Code edition: 2023

    “The City of Snyder has adopted the following codes: 2021 International Building Code (IBC) 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC) 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) 2021 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) These codes apply to construction, remodeling, installations, and maintenance of buildings and structures within the city.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction within the incorporated City of Snyder, Scurry County, Texas.
      “Most construction projects require permits and inspections to ensure work complies with adopted building codes and city standards. Visit this section to learn about permit requirements, inspection scheduling, contractor registration, and permit applications.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction, remodeling, installations, and maintenance of buildings and structures within the City of Snyder.
      “The City of Snyder has adopted the following codes: 2021 International Building Code (IBC) [...] 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning within the incorporated City of Snyder, Scurry County, Texas.

    • The rule applies within the City of Snyder and is administered through city departments and the City Code of Ordinances.
    • This claim does not establish zoning status for other municipalities or unincorporated Scurry County.
    “Code Enforcement responsibilities include: Enforcing zoning and property maintenance codes”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use and zoning regulation within the City of Snyder, located in Scurry County, Texas.
      “Code Enforcement responsibilities include: Enforcing zoning and property maintenance codes”
    • Present (with conditions) — Property within the corporate limits of the City of Snyder, Scurry County, Texas.
      “The Planning & Development Services Department guides growth and development in the City of Snyder. From issuing building permits and conducting inspections to enforcing development standards and supporting long-range planning, the department helps ensure growth is safe, well planned, and aligned with the City’s Comprehensive Plan. [...] Explore interactive maps showing zoning, parcels, floodplains, and other geographic data to support property research and development planning. [...] Questions about permits, inspections, zoning, or development projects can be directed to planning@snydertx.gov.”
    • Present — Land within the City of Snyder, Scurry County, Texas.
      “The City of Snyder Code of Ordinances contains local regulations related to zoning, development standards, property maintenance, and other municipal requirements.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy in Scurry County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water or sewer connection requirements for property in Scurry County.
  • Building in a floodplain — Development and construction in flood hazard areas in Scurry County, Texas.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Scurry County, Texas.

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 Scurry County, Texas

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

Scurry County scores 48/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (21.2″/yr rainfall).

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

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

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Scurry County is allowed: Unincorporated Scurry County: no county rule sets this, because Scurry 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 Scurry County, Texas?

Land in Scurry County runs about $1,279 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Scurry County?

Scurry County gets about 21.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 33.5% of years.

How remote is Scurry County?

A representative private-land location has about 14,448 people within a 30-minute drive and 872,483 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 Scurry compares in Texas

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