Big South Fork Wilderness on the Cumberland Plateau
Scott County sits on the Cumberland Plateau at the gateway to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Ultra-affordable land and minimal zoning make it attractive for barndominium builders, though the remote location limits contractor availability.
| Zone | Min Lot | Barndo OK? |
|---|---|---|
| Unzoned/Rural | No minimum | ✅ Yes |
| Residential (Oneida/Huntsville) | 0.5 acre | ⚠️ Conditional |
Scott County has minimal zoning. Most unincorporated land allows barndominiums and metal buildings with a basic building permit.
Tennessee allows owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Licensed subs needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Scott County Codes Department 283 Court Street, Huntsville, TN 37756 (423) 663-2000 Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
The New River and Big South Fork create flood zones in gorge areas. Plateau-top parcels and highland sites are well above flood elevations and make ideal building locations.
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
Scott County offers some of the cheapest land in Tennessee at around $3,200 per acre. Building costs are low but contractor availability can be limited — plan ahead.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Scott County Assessor
Scott County is for wilderness lovers — Big South Fork's gorges, waterfalls, and trails are literally in your backyard, with the quiet of the Cumberland Plateau all around.
Over 125,000 acres of federally protected river gorge with hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and kayaking.
Scott County and Big South Fork are renowned for horseback riding with miles of designated equestrian trails.
Low population density and vast forests provide genuine wilderness living on the Cumberland Plateau.
Scott County is served by Plateau Electric Cooperative and the Oneida and Huntsville water systems. Many rural parcels require wells and septic.
Scott County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans, making zero-down barndominium financing accessible despite the remote location.
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