Bolthole Index

Starr County, Texas

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

54Index Score / 100
#121 of 254 in Texas

Unincorporated Starr County, Texas appears not to require a residential building permit, but confirm that answer with the Starr County Judge / Commissioners Court before building12. Starr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance for unincorporated land3. Roma administers municipal zoning, and Starr County is the OSSF authorized agent except where a separate city or special-district agent applies45.

At a glance

Building permit
Not required in unincorporated Starr County1
Zoning
No county zoning in unincorporated Starr County; Roma has municipal zoning36
Septic permit
Generally required through Starr County, unless a separate local agent applies57
Septic 10-acre exemption
May remove the permit requirement on a qualifying 10+ acre tract7
RV living
No county zoning rule restricts it on unincorporated land; septic and city rules still apply38
Tiny home / manufactured home
No county zoning rule restricts them on unincorporated land; city rules differ3
Minimum home size
No county minimum on unincorporated land3
Septic soils
About 49% of the county's soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field9

Who to call

Septic permits

Starr County OSSF Authorized Agent

OSSF (septic) permitting for unincorporated Starr County. TCEQ's own county-lookup tool lists this office, not the TCEQ regional office, as the authorized agent serving unincorporated Starr County; separate authorized agents cover the City of Roma, the City of La Grulla, and Agua SUD areas administered by Hidalgo County.

(956) 716-4800

acantu@cityofrgc.com

100 N FM 3167, Ste 207, Rio Grande City, TX 78582

Online permits →

Also useful

Starr County Judge / Commissioners Court

Presides over Commissioners Court, the county's governing body; general point of contact for county roads and anything not covered by a named county office. The county's own navigation menu names no building, zoning, or planning department.

(956) 716-4800

401 N. Britton Ave, Rio Grande City, TX 78582

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

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Starr 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 Starr County, Texas?

Unincorporated Starr County appears not to require a residential building permit1. Because we could not confirm a county ordinance or application procedure, ask the Starr County Judge / Commissioners Court before relying on that answer2. City limits change the result: Rio Grande City has adopted residential and commercial construction codes, while Roma enforces adopted building and construction codes1011. We could not confirm Starr County residential inspections, certificates of occupancy, or a general building-permit fee schedule. The County Clerk publishes recording, filing, alcohol-permit, and subdivision-plat fees, but that schedule is not a residential building-permit fee schedule12.

Who handles building and septic permits in Starr County?

Starr County is the OSSF authorized agent associated with the county, responsible for septic applications, inspections, and complaints within its approved jurisdiction5. Start with the listed Starr County OSSF contact, but check for a separate city or special-district authorized agent before filing135. For building-permit or zoning questions on unincorporated land, contact the Starr County Judge / Commissioners Court at 401 N. Britton Ave, Rio Grande City, TX 78582, phone (956) 716-48002. For land inside Roma or Rio Grande City, contact the city before designing or building because Roma administers zoning and both cities enforce adopted construction rules41110.

Does Starr County have zoning?

Zoning varies by location in Starr County, and Roma's municipal rules do not establish the rules for unincorporated land or other cities14. Roma publishes zoning materials and uses a Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustments; the board hears appeals, interprets unclear provisions, and decides requests to vary from zoning regulations415. Starr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance, so no county rule sets minimum lot size, setbacks, building height, dwelling size, RV use, tiny homes, manufactured homes, accessory dwellings or temporary camping on unincorporated land3. Deed restrictions, subdivision plats, septic rules and any city or special-district rules can still apply, so confirm the parcel's status with the Starr County Judge / Commissioners Court2. A buyer inside Roma should use the city's zoning map and application process rather than assuming the unincorporated answer applies6.

How do septic permits work in Starr County?

Starr County is the OSSF authorized agent associated with the county, subject to any separate city or special-district agent serving the parcel5. A permit and approved plan are generally required before constructing, altering, repairing, extending, or operating an on-site sewage facility7. The designated representative inspects authorized installations for compliance with state criteria or a stricter authorized-agent order16. A single-family home on at least 10 acres may qualify for an exemption only if every condition is met, including a licensed site evaluation, no nuisance or groundwater pollution, at least 100 feet from every system part to the property line, on-property effluent disposal, and no other dwelling on the tract8. About 49% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field9.

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

In unincorporated Starr County, no county zoning rule restricts full-time RV living, tiny homes, manufactured homes, accessory dwellings or temporary camping3. A septic or other sanitation approval, a deed restriction or a city's rules can still decide what is practical, so check with the Starr County Judge / Commissioners Court before placing one2. Municipal zoning varies, and Roma administers zoning requests, appeals, variances, and conditional uses within the city64. Off-grid sanitation still requires an approved OSSF plan and permit unless every condition of an exemption is met8. A factory-built structure sold as industrialized housing, rather than an ordinary manufactured or mobile home, must meet Texas's mandatory state code program17. Ask the relevant city about occupancy and utility rules inside municipal limits; we could not confirm those rules for every Starr County city.

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

  1. Determine whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside a city; Roma has zoning and adopted construction-code enforcement, and Rio Grande City has adopted construction codes41110.
  2. On unincorporated land, confirm the reported lack of a residential building-permit requirement and ask the Starr County Judge / Commissioners Court about the parcel's status; the county has adopted no zoning ordinance for unincorporated land132.
  3. Ask the listed Starr County OSSF office whether it or a separate local agent serves the parcel135.
  4. Determine whether the tract meets every condition of the 10-acre exemption; otherwise obtain the septic evaluation, plan, permit, and installation inspection816.
  5. If access connects to a state highway, obtain the TxDOT driveway permit before work in the right of way18.
  6. Ask the responsible office about floodplain, well, subdivision, and utility requirements because we could not confirm countywide answers.

What to check before you buy land in Starr County

Verify the boundary first because Roma has municipal zoning and both Roma and Rio Grande City enforce adopted construction rules, while unincorporated land has no county zoning ordinance361110. Get a septic site evaluation before buying because about 49% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field9. A qualifying single-family tract of at least 10 acres may use the septic-permit exemption only when every listed condition is satisfied8. Land used principally for agriculture may qualify for special appraisal after agricultural or timber use in at least 5 of the past 7 years; conversion to nonagricultural use can create a 3-year rollback liability19. A state-highway driveway needs a TxDOT access permit18. Ask about floodplain, well, subdivision, and utility requirements before closing.

Watch-outs

  • We could not confirm the current well-permit rules of the Starr County Drainage and Groundwater Conservation District, so ask the county judge's office which district contact to use before drilling2.
  • Factory-built "industrialized housing," as distinct from an ordinary manufactured or mobile home, must meet Texas's mandatory building, energy, and electrical codes (2021-edition IBC/IRC with amendments) for construction starting on or after July 1, 2024, even though Starr County itself has no building-permit requirement17.
  • Roma and Rio Grande City apply municipal construction rules, so do not use the reported unincorporated Starr County permit answer for property inside either city1110.

Sources

  1. Texas Local Government Code Ch. 233 (County Regulation of Housing and Other Structures) (2026 county census)
  2. Starr County Judge / Commissioners Court (co.starr.tx.us)
  3. Texas law on county zoning and building authority
  4. Development Services | City of Roma, quoted and re-checked
  5. tceq.texas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  6. cityofroma.net, quoted and re-checked
  7. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  8. Getting a Permit for an OSSF - Such as a Septic System, quoted and re-checked
  9. 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
  10. Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  11. cityofroma.net, quoted and re-checked
  12. Starr County Clerk Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  13. Starr County OSSF Authorized Agent (www6.tceq.texas.gov)
  14. cityofroma.net, quoted and re-checked
  15. cityofroma.net, quoted and re-checked
  16. Occupational Licenses: On-Site Sewage Facilities (Septic Systems), quoted and re-checked
  17. Industrialized Housing and Buildings – Adoption of New Code Editions (Texas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. General Access Driveway Policy, quoted and re-checked
  19. Starr Central Appraisal District — PDF Forms, quoted and re-checked

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 5 of its 6 neighbors, Starr County has no countywide zoning.

RuleStarr CountyZapata CountyHidalgo CountyJim Hogg CountyBrooks CountyWillacy CountyKenedy County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredRequiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot required
County zoningNoYesNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsStarr CountyZapata CountyCounty Env. Health Div.Jim Hogg CountyBrooks CountyCounty Permits Dept.Kenedy County

County locator

Starr County in Texas

54
County map
Starr County highlighted among the Texas counties · colored by Index score

How Starr County scores

Seclusion50100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency2696% ev.
Admin Boringness8290% ev.
Durability45100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost82100% 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
1.1%Property tax
$2,289Land / acre
21.8"Annual rain
24.6% of yrsSevere drought
82.1 / yr (+46.7)Mid-century 100°F days
37 daysMid-century dry spell
2.06" (+8.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.32×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,606Home insurance / yr
-0.4% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
1,228,758People within 2 hr
8,333Radius comparison (15 mi)
53.9People / sq mi
1.8%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
48.8%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
379,157 acWorkable land screen
13.2%Wooded land
4.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
74.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Starr County

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

Not yet researched: Escobares · La Grulla · Rio Grande City

Answers from the rulebook for Starr County

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

Starr County rules

  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of local zoning controls within Starr County, including municipal zoning administered by incorporated municipalities rather than by Starr County.

    • The City of Roma officially publishes zoning ordinances, zoning maps, zoning applications, and a zoning administration process within the City of Roma's jurisdiction.
    • This aggregate claim does not establish zoning in unincorporated Starr County or in every other municipality in Starr County.
    • Municipal zoning rules apply within the relevant municipal jurisdiction; county subdivision, septic, floodplain, and other applicable rules may also apply.
    “The Planning and Zoning Commission shall: Review all current and proposed ordinances and amendments pertaining to planning and zoning and make recommendations to the city council for action to be taken; [...] Review plats and zoning requests and make recommendations to the city council for final adoption of same.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate conclusion for local zoning within Starr County: municipal zoning exists at least in the City of Roma, while this claim does not attribute municipal ordinances to Starr County.
      “The Planning and Zoning Commission shall: 1. Review all current and proposed ordinances and amendments pertaining to planning and zoning and make recommendations to the city council for action to be taken;”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNo county rule

    Unincorporated Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr 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 Starr County: no county rule sets this, because Starr County has adopted no county zoning ordinance (Texas law lets some counties zone, but this one has not). The county legal census found no county zoning ordinance, citing statutes.capitol.texas.gov.

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

    OSSF permitting and administration associated with Starr County, subject to any separately listed city or special-district authorized agent.

    • The TCEQ report identifies Starr County authorized agent account 620282.
    • An authorized agent administers the OSSF program within its approved area of jurisdiction and is responsible for reviewing OSSF permit applications, conducting inspections, and investigating complaints.
    • If a property is within a city or special district with a separate OSSF authorized-agent record, that separate authority applies; if the city is not listed, OARS instructs users to contact the county.

    authorized agent account number: 620282

    “STARR COUNTY (STARR) 620282 198 0 0 0 0 179 16 0 3 0 0 0 0”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Land in Starr County seeking the commonly called agricultural tax benefit, which is a special agricultural appraisal rather than a complete property-tax exemption.

    • Starr Central Appraisal District provides Form 50-129, Application for 1-d-1 (Open-Space) Agricultural.
    • Land must currently be devoted principally to agricultural use and to the degree of intensity generally accepted in the area.
    • The land must have been devoted to agricultural or timber production for at least five of the past seven years.
    • For land within an incorporated city or town, the land must also meet one additional state criterion: the city or town does not provide comparable general services; the land has been devoted principally to agricultural use continuously for the preceding five years; or the land has been devoted principally to agricultural or timber production continuously for the preceding five years and is used for wildlife management.
    • Wildlife-management land must previously have qualified as open-space land or timberland and be actively used for wildlife management; it must be used in at least three of seven specific ways to propagate a sustaining breeding, migrating, or wintering population of indigenous wild animals for human use.
    • A change to non-agricultural use can create rollback tax liability for the previous three years; 1-d land also incurs interest upon sale or discontinuance of agricultural use.

    prior agricultural-or-timber-production period: 5 of past 7 years (Additional incorporated-city criteria apply.) · rollback lookback: per 3 years (Applies when land receiving agricultural appraisal changes to non-agricultural use.)

    “50-129 | Application for 1-d-1 (Open-Space) Agricultural”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Fees published by the Starr County Clerk for county recording, filing, certain permits, and subdivision plats.

    • The schedule is a County Clerk recording and filing fee schedule, not a general residential building-permit fee schedule.
    • The schedule lists an alcohol permit fee of $17.00 and subdivision plat fees of $120.00, with plat copies at $10.00.
    • Other listed fees include standard real estate recording at $25.00 for the first page, $4.00 for each additional page, and $0.25 for each indexed name over five names.
    • No effective date or revision date appears in the opened fee-schedule text.

    alcohol permit fee: 17 USD · subdivision plat fee: 120 USD · subdivision plat copy: 10 USD · standard real estate first page: 25 USD · standard real estate each additional page: 4 USD · indexed name over five names: 0.25 USD

    “ALCOHOL PERMIT $ 17.00 CATTLE BRAND $ 25.00 SUBDIVISON PLATS $ 120.00 - PLAT COPY $ 10.00”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Texas counties generally cannot zone; LG Code Ch. 231 grants zoning authority only to specifically named counties, which does not include Starr County.

    Texas Local Government Code Ch. 231 (County 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 owner performing electrical, plumbing, or air-conditioning and refrigeration work on the owner's own residence or homestead in Texas.

    • Electrical work is exempt from state electrician licensing when performed on a dwelling the person owns and resides in.
    • Plumbing is exempt from state plumbing licensing when performed by the property owner in the property owner's homestead.
    • Air-conditioning and refrigeration contracting is exempt from the applicable state registration requirements when performed in a building owned solely by the person as the person's home.
    • These exemptions do not establish a blanket exemption for every construction trade or contractor-regulated activity.
    “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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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:”
  • Septic permitRequired

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

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

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

    “A permit and approved plan are required to construct, alter, repair, extend, and operate an OSSF.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, extension, or repair of an on-site sewage facility in Texas, including Starr County.
      “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.”
    • 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 inspectionLimited

    OSSF installation and, where applicable, maintenance inspections in Texas

    • Authorized agents or their designated representatives inspect system installation.
    • Some permitting authorities impose more stringent requirements.
    • Maintenance-provider inspection and reporting requirements apply to systems and circumstances governed by 30 TAC §285.91(4).
    • Electronic monitoring may reduce reporting to every six months where the stated monitoring conditions apply.

    reduced maintenance reporting interval with qualifying electronic monitoring: 6 months (only where the system uses the specified electronic monitoring, automatic notification, and disinfection monitoring)

    “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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — OSSF installation inspections and inspections performed by an authorized agent or designated representative in Starr County.
      “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 — Inspection of OSSF installations that have received an authorization to construct in Texas, including Starr County where the applicable permitting authority uses the state OSSF program.
      “They perform site evaluations (when it is part of their job duties), complaint investigations, system evaluations, and inspections of OSSFs that have been issued an authorization to construct to ensure the installation of the OSSF meets the criteria established by the TCEQ, or by the Authorized Agent Order approved by the TCEQ, whichever is more stringent.”
    • 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 OSSF or septic system in Texas, including Starr County.

    • An OSSF permit and approved plan are generally required before construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation.
    • The 10-acre exemption may apply only when all TCEQ conditions are met, including a qualified site evaluation, single-family use, no nuisance or groundwater pollution, 100-foot property-line separation, on-site effluent disposal, and no other dwelling on the tract.
    • Emergency repairs listed by TCEQ are exempt from permitting but require written reporting within 72 hours after repairs begin.
    • Local permitting requirements may be more stringent than state minimums.

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

    “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”:”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Off-grid domestic sewage treatment and disposal through an OSSF, septic system, or holding tank in Starr County.
      “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.”
    • 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.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    New access driveways and modifications to existing access driveways serving property in Starr County when the driveway connects to a state highway or uses state highway right of way.

    • TxDOT issues access driveway permits to owners of property abutting state highways.
    • The permitting process may be transferred to a municipality or eligible county only at that municipality's or county's request and with TxDOT approval.
    • A completed Permit Form 1058 is required whenever a new access driveway is constructed or an existing access driveway is modified.
    • The application must identify the proposed work, applicant, mailing address, and driveway location.
    • No driveway construction may begin in the right of way until a fully executed permit is received and the applicant has given TxDOT 24-hour notification.
    • The driveway must be constructed under the executed permit and applicable regulations and is subject to TxDOT inspection and acceptance.
    • Private residential driveways may not exceed 24 feet in width, except as increased by permissible radii, and the connecting radius may not be less than 15 feet.
    • A typical private farm or ranch driveway should provide 25-foot return radii and a 20-foot throat width.
    • Drainage structures and changes to highway drainage require TxDOT approval.

    private residential driveway maximum width: <= 24 feet (except as increased by permissible radii) · private residential driveway minimum connecting radius: >= 15 feet · farm/ranch driveway return radius: 25 feet (typical design) · farm/ranch driveway throat width: 20 feet (typical design) · advance notification before construction: 24 hours (after receipt of fully executed permit)

    “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
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

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

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

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

    “The applicant shall complete and submit to TxDOT a Form 1058”
  • 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 Starr County

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

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Commercial and residential construction within the City of Rio Grande City, Starr County, Texas.

    • The page identifies the listed codes as adopted codes in effect for the City of Rio Grande City.
    • The listed building, electrical, mechanical, fuel gas, plumbing, energy, property maintenance, fire, and life-safety codes include the editions shown on the official page.

    building code: ICC - 2018 (Commercial and residential) · electrical code: ICC 2018 / NEC 2017; ICC 2018 - NEC 2017 (Commercial / residential) · mechanical code: ICC - 2018 (Commercial and residential) · fuel gas code: ICC - 2018 (Commercial and residential) · plumbing code: ICC - 2018 (Commercial and residential) · energy code: ICC - 2018 (Commercial and residential) · property maintenance code: ICC - 2018 (Residential) · fire code: ICC - 2018 (Residential) · life safety code: NFPA 101 - 2018 (Residential)

    “Building Codes: The following are the adopted codes in effect for the City of Rio Grande City.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction-related activity within the City of Roma, Starr County, Texas.
      “We are responsible for the enforcement of the City’s adopted building and construction codes and ordinances.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land and building uses within the City of Roma, Starr County, Texas.

    • The City of Roma administers the zoning ordinance through its local planning-and-zoning and board-of-adjustments process.
    • The City page states that the Board of Adjustments hears appeals from zoning-administrator decisions, interprets the zoning ordinance, and decides applications to permit variances from zoning regulations.
    • This claim does not apply to unincorporated Starr County or establish rules for other municipalities.
    “Interpret unclear provisions in the zoning ordinance; [...] buildings or land uses which vary from the zoning regulations.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning administration and zoning regulations within the City of Roma, Starr County, Texas.
      “The Board of Adjustments is the body established to: 1. Hear appeals of decisions rendered by zoning administrators; 2. Interpret unclear provisions in the zoning ordinance; 3. Decide on applications by landowners to permit buildings or land uses which vary from the zoning regulations.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning regulation within the City of Roma, Starr County, Texas.
      “The Planning and Zoning Commission shall: 1. Review all current and proposed ordinances and amendments pertaining to planning and zoning and make recommendations to the city council for action to be taken;”

Still unanswered

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

  • Inspections — Residential building inspections administered by Starr County in unincorporated Starr County.
  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy or certificates of compliance for residential buildings in unincorporated Starr County.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Required connection to public water or sewer service for property in Starr County.
  • Subdividing land — Subdivision, platting, and land-division requirements in Starr County, including land outside municipalities.
  • Building in a floodplain — Development or construction in flood hazard areas within Starr County.
1 more unanswered
  • Short-term rentals

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 Starr County, Texas

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

Starr County scores 54/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property. Watch-outs: thin water margin (21.8″/yr rainfall).

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

Starr 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 Starr County (TCEQ authorized agent for on-site sewage). 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 Starr County?

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

Land in Starr County runs about $2,289 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Starr County?

Starr County gets about 21.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 24.6% of years.

How remote is Starr County?

A typical private-land location has about 8,333 people within 15 miles and 4,061,347 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Starr compares in Texas

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