Knowledge Center
Before you build, know the rules
192 plain-English answers about land, septic, power, water, site work, permits and financing. Each one names the official source it came from, and every topic links to the office that sets the rule where you live.
27 answers
Land, Zoning & Unrestricted Land
Restrictions, zoning, deed covenants, flood zones and what "unrestricted land" really means.
- What does "unrestricted land" mean?
- How do I confirm a property really has no deed restrictions?
- What is the difference between zoning, deed restrictions and HOA covenants?
- Do Texas counties have zoning?
- What is a city's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) in Texas?
- Can I get my land released from a city's ETJ in Texas?
- Can deed restrictions block a small or container home?
- When does rural land in Texas have to be platted?
- Is there a 10-acre exception to platting in Texas?
- What is the minimum lot size for a home with a septic system in Texas?
- Do I need a septic permit on 10 acres or more in Texas?
- Does my land need road frontage, and will the county maintain my road?
- What if the land has no legal access to a road?
- What easements should I look for before buying land?
- How do I check whether land is in a FEMA flood zone?
- What do FEMA flood zones A, AE, X and D mean?
- Do I need a land survey before buying rural property?
- What is a title search and do I need title insurance for land?
- Do mineral and water rights come with the land in Texas?
- What is an agricultural (ag) exemption on Texas land?
- Will putting a home on land with an ag valuation trigger a rollback tax?
- Can I keep a lower tax valuation with wildlife management instead of farming?
- Can I put an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on a lot inside a Texas city?
- What should I ask the county or city planning office before buying land?
- How do I get water on land with no utilities?
- Can getting water or sewer service to rural land be expensive?
- Where can I look up parcel maps for Texas land?
Find the rule for your area
Official pages from the agencies and code bodies that set these rules.
- FEMA Flood Map Service CenterFederal Emergency Management AgencySearch any address or coordinates to view and download the official flood map for a parcel.
- County Information MapTexas Association of CountiesPick any of the 254 Texas counties to find its official website and county seat.
- What You Need to Know About Land-Use Restrictions in TexasTexas A&M Real Estate Research CenterPlain-language explanation of zoning, ETJ, deed restrictions, HOAs and easements in Texas.
- Agricultural, Timberland and Wildlife Management Use Special AppraisalTexas Comptroller of Public AccountsRules, forms and manuals for ag, timber and wildlife special appraisal and rollback taxes.
- Local Property Appraisal and Tax Information (County Directory)Texas Comptroller of Public AccountsContact information for each county's appraisal district and tax office.
- StratMap Land ParcelsTexas Geographic Information Office (TxGIO)Free statewide parcel boundary data compiled from appraisal districts, via the TxGIO DataHub.
- Getting a Permit for an OSSF, Such as a Septic SystemTexas Commission on Environmental QualityFind the local septic permitting authority by county and read permit exemptions.
- RPLS Roster SearchTexas Board of Professional Engineers and Land SurveyorsVerify that a land surveyor holds an active Texas registration.
27 answers
Permits & Building Codes
Which permits you need, which codes apply, and who to ask in your county or city.
- What is the difference between a HUD-code manufactured home and a modular home?
- Can a shipping container home be classified as a HUD-code manufactured home?
- What is the Texas Industrialized Housing and Buildings program?
- Who inspects a Texas modular (industrialized) home on site, inside or outside city limits?
- What does the International Building Code say about shipping containers?
- What is the ICC G5 guideline for shipping container buildings?
- Why does a building inspector care about a shipping container's data plate?
- What is IRC Appendix Q (now AQ) for tiny houses?
- What ceiling heights and loft sizes does the tiny house appendix require?
- Is a tiny house on wheels treated the same as a tiny house on a foundation?
- Do Texas counties have building codes for rural land?
- What inspections does Texas require for a new home in an unincorporated county area?
- Why are building rules stricter inside Texas city limits than in the county?
- What permits might I need to place a home on rural land?
- Do I need a septic permit in Texas, and who issues it?
- Do I need a floodplain permit to put a home on my land?
- How do I find out if my land is in a flood zone?
- Do I need a permit for a driveway or culvert on rural land?
- Does electrical work for a home have to be done by a licensed electrician in Texas?
- What does it mean when a building is called a temporary structure?
- Can I avoid permits by calling my home temporary or accessory?
- What is a certificate of occupancy, and will I need one?
- How do I find out which building codes apply to my land?
- Does an energy code apply to a small home in Texas?
- When do I need an engineer's stamp on plans?
- Can I read the building codes for free?
- Can a Texas city add its own requirements to a TDLR-approved modular home?
Find the rule for your area
Official pages from the agencies and code bodies that set these rules.
- ICC Digital CodesInternational Code CouncilRead model I-Codes (IBC, IRC, IECC) online; basic view-only access is free.
- What You Need to Know Before Purchasing an Industrialized Home or BuildingTexas Department of Licensing and RegulationHow Texas modular (industrialized) housing is regulated, inspected and installed, plus TDLR contact numbers.
- FAQs for On-Site Completion of Construction of Manufactured HomesU.S. Department of Housing and Urban DevelopmentHUD's definition of a manufactured home, the red label, and why containers rarely qualify.
- On-Site Sewage Facility Program ContactsTexas Commission on Environmental QualityCounty lookup for the local authority that issues septic permits in Texas.
- FEMA Flood Map Service CenterFederal Emergency Management AgencySearch an address to see official flood maps and flood zones.
- Access Management Manual: Driveway PermitsTexas Department of TransportationHow to apply for a driveway permit onto a Texas state highway.
- Texas Local Government Code Sec. 233.153Justia (Texas statutes)The statute defining what residential building code a Texas county may apply in unincorporated areas.
28 answers
Site Prep, Grading & Foundations
Clearing, grading, drainage, soil, piers, blocks and slabs.
- What do I need to do to clear and prepare the ground before a small factory-built home is set?
- Can I build up a low spot with fill dirt before setting the home?
- Is a gravel pad a good base for a container or expandable home?
- How much should the ground slope away from the home?
- In Texas, who is responsible for making sure the site drains properly?
- What is soil bearing capacity and how is it figured for a small home?
- Why are expansive clay soils a problem in Texas?
- How can I find out if my land has expansive soil?
- What is the USDA Web Soil Survey and how does it help with a home site?
- Can the Texas A&M AgriLife soil lab test my soil for a foundation?
- When do I need an engineer for a small home foundation?
- What are the rules for concrete block piers under a manufactured-style home?
- What goes under each pier, and are plastic ABS pads allowed?
- How much space should there be under a home on piers or a pier-and-beam foundation?
- Can a small factory-built home sit on a concrete slab?
- What are helical anchors or piles, and when are they used?
- How deep do footings need to be for frost?
- Does a small home sitting on piers really need to be tied down?
- How strong do ground anchors and tie-down straps need to be?
- What wind zone is my Texas property in for anchoring?
- How often should I check my home's tie-downs and anchors?
- How level does the home need to be, and how is it leveled?
- Do I need a vapor barrier on the ground under a raised home?
- Does skirting around the home need vents?
- How high must the home sit if the land is in a flood zone?
- What access does my land need for a delivery truck carrying the home?
- Will my home be set with a crane or slid off the truck?
- How do I keep clay soil from moving under my home after it is set?
Find the rule for your area
Official pages from the agencies and code bodies that set these rules.
- ICC Digital Codes: 2021 International Residential Code, Chapter 4 FoundationsInternational Code CouncilFree read-only viewer for the model residential code; check which edition and local amendments your city or county adopted.
- Web Soil Survey: Soil Data Explorer guideUSDA Natural Resources Conservation ServiceHow to map your parcel's soils and view building site, shrink-swell and road suitability ratings.
- 24 CFR Part 3285, Manufactured Home Installation StandardseCFR, Office of the Federal RegisterCurrent federal installation rules for site prep, drainage, piers, footings, anchoring and skirting.
- FEMA P-85, Protecting Manufactured Homes from Floods and Other HazardsFEMAGuidance on anchoring, pier and pile foundations, and elevating homes in flood and wind hazard areas.
- Texas A&M AgriLife Soil, Water and Forage Testing LaboratoryTexas A&M AgriLife ExtensionSubmittal forms for agricultural and urban soil tests (fertility, pH, salinity, texture), not foundation engineering tests.
- 10 Tex. Admin. Code 80.24, Generic Standards for Anchoring SystemsLegal Information Institute, Cornell Law SchoolTexas anchoring rules by wind zone, strap specs and when an engineer is needed.
- IHB Technical Bulletin TB 10-01: Foundations on Expansive SoilsTexas Department of Licensing and RegulationTexas criteria for identifying expansive soils and the design and drainage duties that follow.
- 2021 IRC Regional AmendmentsNorth Central Texas Council of GovernmentsRegional frost depth and engineer-sealed foundation amendments used by many DFW-area cities.
27 answers
Septic & Wastewater
Septic permits, soil tests, system types, sizing and setbacks.
- Is there a minimum distance from the home to a septic system?
- How far must a septic system be from a water well in Texas?
- How close can a septic system be to my property line?
- How far does a septic system need to be from a pond, creek or lake?
- How far must a septic system be from water lines and swimming pools?
- Are septic setback distances the same in every state?
- Who issues septic permits in Texas?
- How do I find my local septic permitting office?
- Do I need a permit to install a septic system in Texas?
- What is a septic site evaluation in Texas?
- Do I need a perc test for a septic system?
- What is the difference between a conventional septic system and an aerobic system?
- What maintenance does an aerobic septic system require in Texas?
- How is a septic system sized in Texas?
- Does a small home or ADU need a smaller septic system?
- Can I connect a second home or ADU to my existing septic system?
- Who can install a septic system in Texas?
- Who designs a septic system in Texas?
- What is the minimum lot size for a septic system in Texas?
- What happens if my lot is too small for a septic system?
- Should I connect to city sewer or install a septic system?
- How often should a septic tank be pumped and inspected?
- Can I build, drive or park on top of a septic drainfield?
- What are the signs of a failing septic system?
- How much does a septic system cost?
- Are septic rules different over the Edwards Aquifer in Texas?
- How does a septic system work?
Find the rule for your area
Official pages from the agencies and code bodies that set these rules.
- OSSF Permitting Authority Search by County (OARS)Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)Pick a Texas county to find the authorized agent or TCEQ office that issues septic permits there.
- On-Site Sewage Facility Program ContactsTexas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)TCEQ OSSF staff contacts and the link to the county permitting-authority map.
- Permitting an On-Site Sewage FacilityTexas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)Texas permit steps, the 10-acre exemption conditions and homeowner self-install rules.
- TCEQ Licensing or Registration Information SearchTexas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)Verify that a Texas septic installer, site evaluator or maintenance provider holds a current license.
- 30 TAC §285.91 Tables (Texas OSSF rule tables)Cornell Law School Legal Information InstituteOfficial Texas rule tables, including Table X separation distances and Table III flow rates.
- SepticSmartU.S. Environmental Protection AgencyEPA homeowner program with care, pumping and inspection guidance.
- How to Care for Your Septic SystemU.S. Environmental Protection AgencyEPA SepticSmart maintenance checklist: inspection, pumping, water use and drainfield protection.
- Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Reuse (OSSF)Texas A&M AgriLife Extension ServiceTexas extension fact sheets on choosing, permitting and maintaining septic and aerobic systems.
28 answers
Water & Plumbing
Wells, rural water, rainwater, water lines, freeze protection and drains.
- Should I connect to city water or drill a private well?
- Do I need a permit to drill a water well in Texas?
- Can I drill a water well on my own land without a license in Texas?
- How far must a water well be from a septic system in Texas?
- How can I find the records for an existing well on property I am buying?
- How often should I test my well water, and for what?
- Where can I get my well water tested in Texas?
- What should I do if my well floods?
- Is rainwater harvesting legal in Texas?
- How much water can I collect from my roof?
- Can I use rainwater as drinking water for my home?
- How deep does a water line need to be buried?
- What pipe is used for a home's water lines: PEX, PVC or CPVC?
- What is backflow prevention and does my home need it?
- What is a Customer Service Inspection when connecting a new home to public water in Texas?
- What are water and sewer tap fees and impact fees?
- Who is responsible for the water and sewer lines between the street and my home?
- What is a sewer cleanout and why do I need one?
- Who handles permits for connecting a home to a septic system in Texas?
- Is there a minimum lot size to use a septic system in Texas?
- What water pressure should a home have?
- What does a well pressure tank do?
- Is a tankless water heater a good fit for a small home?
- Who is allowed to do the plumbing on my home in Texas?
- Do I need a plumbing permit to hook up water and sewer to a new home?
- How do I check that a Texas plumber is licensed?
- How do I protect my pipes from freezing in Texas?
- How should I protect plumbing if the home will be empty during a freeze?
Find the rule for your area
Official pages from the agencies and code bodies that set these rules.
- Groundwater Conservation Districts (with statewide district map)Texas Water Development BoardFind which groundwater conservation district covers your county and its contact info and rules.
- Locating a Water Well ReportTexas Water Development BoardLook up state well reports (driller records) for an existing well by address or owner.
- Water Well Drillers and Pump Installers programTexas Department of Licensing and RegulationState licensing, rules and contacts for water well drillers and pump installers.
- Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (Public License Search)Texas State Board of Plumbing ExaminersVerify a plumber's license, find a licensed plumber, or file a complaint.
- Protect Your Home's Water (Private Wells)U.S. Environmental Protection AgencyFederal guidance for private well owners, including testing and finding certified labs by state.
- Guidelines for Testing Well WaterCenters for Disease Control and PreventionWhat to test a private well for each year and when to test again.
- Getting a Permit for an OSSF (Septic System)Texas Commission on Environmental QualityFind the local septic permitting authority for your county.
- Rainwater Harvesting FAQTexas Water Development BoardTexas rules, tax exemptions, HOA limits and potable-use requirements for rainwater systems.
27 answers
Electrical & Power
New service, poles and meters, trenching, solar and generators.
- How do I get electric service to a new home site?
- Who pays to extend power lines to my property?
- Do I have to provide the meter pole, meter base, and wiring myself?
- How do I know if I'm served by a co-op or can choose my electricity provider?
- Does the Texas PUC regulate electric co-ops?
- Can I get temporary construction power before the home is ready?
- Does my wiring need an inspection before the utility turns on power?
- Do I need 100-amp or 200-amp electrical service?
- How does an electrician figure out what size service a home needs?
- Can I power an ADU or second structure from my existing house panel?
- Does a detached building like an ADU need its own ground rod?
- How deep do underground electrical wires need to be buried?
- What is a grounding electrode and what does a typical home need?
- What is a GFCI and where is it required?
- Who is allowed to do electrical work on a home in Texas?
- Can I do my own electrical work on my home in Texas?
- Do I need an electrical permit in rural or unincorporated Texas?
- Which edition of the electrical code applies in Texas?
- How can I check that an electrician is licensed in Texas?
- Is off-grid solar a realistic option for a small home on rural land?
- Will grid-tied solar panels keep my power on during an outage?
- Does Texas have net metering for solar?
- What protections do Texans have when buying or leasing solar panels?
- What is the difference between a generator interlock and a transfer switch?
- Why should I never plug a generator into a wall outlet?
- Where should I place a portable generator?
- What do I need to charge an electric vehicle at a small home?
Find the rule for your area
Official pages from the agencies and code bodies that set these rules.
- Free Access to NFPA Codes and Standards (including NFPA 70, the NEC)National Fire Protection AssociationRead the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) online for free.
- ElectriciansTexas Department of Licensing and RegulationTexas electrician license types, rules, exemptions and the FAQ.
- TDLR License SearchTexas Department of Licensing and RegulationCheck that an electrician or electrical contractor holds a current Texas license.
- Thinking About Solar Panels for Your Home?Public Utility Commission of TexasTexas buyback rules, questions to ask solar sellers, and PUC contacts.
- Power to ChoosePublic Utility Commission of TexasEnter a ZIP code to see whether your area has retail choice and compare plans, including solar buyback plans.
- Texas Electric Cooperatives Service Area MapTexas Electric CooperativesMap of Texas co-op territories to identify which co-op serves your land.
- Residential Solar RetailersTexas Department of Licensing and RegulationTexas rules for solar sales and lease contracts and retailer registration.
- Homeowner's Guide to Going SolarU.S. Department of EnergyFederal guide to solar suitability, financing, storage and net metering questions.
28 answers
Financing, Insurance & Taxes
Loans, insurance, appraisals and property taxes.
- What is the difference between a chattel loan and a mortgage for a factory-built home?
- What makes a factory-built home count as real property instead of personal property?
- What is a Texas Statement of Ownership for a manufactured home?
- How do I convert a manufactured home to real property in Texas?
- Why does it matter whether a home is HUD-code manufactured, modular, or something else when I apply for a loan?
- What is an FHA Title I manufactured home loan?
- What is an FHA Title II loan for a manufactured home?
- Can a USDA rural home loan be used for a home on rural land?
- What is a USDA direct home loan?
- Does USDA finance manufactured or factory-built homes?
- Can a VA home loan be used for a manufactured home or a lot?
- Do Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac buy loans on factory-built homes?
- How can I finance the land before placing a home on it?
- How does a construction loan work?
- Can I use a personal loan to buy a small home?
- Should I check with a credit union for a home or land loan?
- What is the difference between the interest rate and the APR?
- How do I compare loan offers from different lenders?
- Are there down payment assistance programs for homebuyers in Texas?
- How do I get homeowners insurance for a manufactured or factory-built home in Texas?
- What is the difference between replacement cost and actual cash value coverage?
- Do I need windstorm insurance from TWIA on the Texas coast?
- Does TWIA require flood insurance?
- Does homeowners insurance cover flooding?
- How long does it take for a new flood insurance policy to start?
- Will adding a home to my land raise my property taxes in Texas?
- What is the Texas homestead exemption and how do I get it?
- Can a manufactured home kept as personal property get the Texas homestead exemption?
Find the rule for your area
Official pages from the agencies and code bodies that set these rules.
- Review Loan EstimatesConsumer Financial Protection BureauPlain-language guidance on reading and comparing Loan Estimates and loan costs.
- HUD Loans and Housing Counselor FinderU.S. Department of Housing and Urban DevelopmentFHA loan options, FHA lender list, state assistance links, and HUD-approved housing counselors.
- USDA Income and Property Eligibility SiteUSDA Rural DevelopmentCheck whether an address is in a USDA-eligible rural area and estimate income eligibility.
- TDHCA Statement of Ownership FAQTexas Department of Housing and Community AffairsHow Texas records manufactured home ownership, liens, and real or personal property elections.
- TDHCA Homebuyer ProgramsTexas Department of Housing and Community AffairsTexas state down payment assistance, mortgage credit certificates, and homebuyer education.
- How to Get Insurance for a Manufactured HomeTexas Department of InsuranceTexas shopping tips, Texas FAIR Plan referral, and TDI consumer help line.
- FEMA Flood Map Service CenterFederal Emergency Management AgencyLook up the official flood zone for any U.S. address.
- Local Property Appraisal and Tax InformationTexas Comptroller of Public AccountsContact information for every Texas county appraisal district and tax office.
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General information, written in our own words from the sources listed with each answer. It is not legal, engineering, tax or financial advice. Rules change and differ by state, county and city, so confirm with the office that issues your permit before you build. Last reviewed October 2026.