Frequently Asked Questions

A zoning permit is required for MOST structures built in Jackson County. Setbacks differ depending on the zoning district. Setbacks are required to ensure overall safety and welfare for Jackson County residents.

A completed application form with the required fee must be returned to the Jackson County Zoning Department before a permit is issued.

There is no charge for agriculture buildings on property deemed AG-exempt. However, we ask that you request an AG-exempt questionnaire. Once deemed AG exempt, a letter will be issued stating the AG exempt requirements have been met.

Yes, a site plan of the property should be drawn to scale and show the boundaries of the lot, the location of all existing features, the location of the proposed building, and its distance from property lines. The plan should also show the location of any wells, septic systems, and drain field, and the location of any existing or proposed on-site septic system. Information about well and septic permits is available from the Jackson County Health Department.

An application is made through the County Engineers office for a 911 address. A zoning permit generates the 911 address.

E911 addresses are not assigned to bare ground.

A septic permit and inspection will be done by the Jackson County Environmental Health Department. Zoning permits are issued by the Jackson County Zoning Department. Jackson County does not do building inspections. At the time a zoning permit is submitted the zoning staff will review the setback and zoning regulations required by Jackson County. The State of Iowa requires electrical permits and will do electrical inspections.

Yes, Jackson County has been a zoned county since 1976. Before you change the use of your building or land it is advised to contact the zoning office to make sure it conforms to the Jackson County Zoning Ordinance.

Classification for zoning purposes and classification for tax purposes are two separate classifications. These two classification systems have different definitions, operate under different rules, and are administered by different offices. If you have questions on zoning classification, please contact the Zoning Department.

Contact the Jackson County Zoning Department to see what will be required in your area. Jackson County does have a subdivision ordinance. Each land division request is reviewed on an individual basis. All land divisions must be approved by Jackson County. Depending on the location of the property, city land division regulations may apply.

The Jackson County Zoning Ordinance allows for more than one (1) principal structure housing in any zoning district. A permitted principal structure use may be erected on a single lot provided that the area, yard, and other requirements of this ordinance shall be met for each structure as though it were on an individual lot.

Please visit our Zoning Permits page to view the requirements. Minimum lot sizes and setback requirements vary for the different Zoning Districts.