In North Carolina, regulations exist regarding the use of an outhouse on one's property. While they are legal, a permit and inspection are required before using an outhouse. Local laws may also make it illegal to have an outhouse on your property, so it is important to consult with the local health inspector and review local ordinances before building one. Outhouses, also known as privies, must be built and maintained according to relaxed rules about pit privies. Additionally, rules about pit privies can be found in North Carolina's Land Development Ordinance and Chapter 160d, as well as in Camden County's Unified Development Ordinance on page 103. For septic alternatives, digging a latrine or using a composting toilet may be possible, although strict regulations must be followed. It is important to note that composting toilets are only approved if all wastewater is handled by an approved system and if the system reduces toilet contents to an inert or stabilized residue or to an otherwise harmless condition.