Information resources on off-grid legality [request] [USA]

Ive zoomed through some off-grid / homestead books but they're so shallow in depth and discuss things to me is common knowledge.

Is there any good sources online or free pdf books where I can learn specifically about the legality of off-grid living / homesteading ie: zoning, building codes, regulations, ordanance, permits, etc. Especially if its been researched by a person in the off-grid world who has experience with such a life style and will have keen knowledge on how to skirt laws that trouble people many people here.

Also, its said to always "build to code". What code exactly? It seems either the: International Building Code or International Residential Code [IBC/IRC]. I have the "2009 International Residential Code® for One- and Two-family Dwellings ISBN: 9781580017275". Its almost 1000 pages and reads like a dictionary.

I know many thing vary by state / county but I do know it will either be in: MI, WV, TN or KY.

TLDR: good off-grid legal guide?

Cameron, that's an excellent question, but I'm not sure there is a guide like that. Hopefully, I'm wrong, and someone will have a specific recommendation. But because laws and regulations vary so much by state, county, and city, such a resource would either be too vague to be useful or so detailed that it would be too expensive. The book you mention is a good example. Then too, laws and codes change all the time.  

As you surmised, "build to code" refers to whatever building codes your building location is under. They apply not only to new structures, but also repairs. We had two properties we were interested in buying fail inspections because the repairs weren't done to code. The codes can usually be found on the county website, but of course, that means you have to have a specific county in mind. Perhaps as preliminary research, you could pick a county in each of the four states you're interested in and check their county websites to make a comparison. Might give you an idea that can help narrow your search.

Besides building codes, you will also want to research livestock laws if you plan to have livestock, and fencing laws. Every place has it's own definition of a "legal fence," which is important to know in case your neighbor's herd of cattle ever bust through the fence and help themselves to your garden.

P.S., I added your post to the "Midwest USA" forum, so perhaps it will catch the eye of folks who live in the states you mention. They might be able to give you more specific information.

That is a moving target.  County and city boards are constantly voting in new rules.

"Follow code" is CYA language that if someone gets hurt because a roof falls in, they can sue you or the builder for not following code.

Many counties have permits but no inspections so it is on the honor system that you built to code. It is mainly a way to know to tax you.

I know that of last year Lewis county Tennessee did not have zoning, but I am not sure if they changed.

Living in Tennessee, I know that you can get on the Tennessee state website in TN a list of counties that do and do not have building codes. Note codes on wells, electrical inspections, septic, etcetera may still exist in those locations. "Agricultural structures" have some special exemptions. I would assume a similar resource (county list within states) would be available for the other 3 States you mentioned. Really if you've narrowed it down to 4 States I would just do some Google searches for various laws and regulations that interest you.  Building codes, fencing laws, taxes, etc. When you think you have it narrowed down, go visit the area.

I agree with Leigh that there just really isn't a guide out there.  Every state has its own laws and codes, same with each county and city.

When you find the land that you might be interested in contact the local authorities to find out if the land falls under any codes. Ask lots of questions.

Besides codes, you might also want to investigate whether the land has agricultural status and how much the taxes are. If it has agricultural status find out what you have to do to keep that status since losing that status will cause the taxes to really jump up.

What does this mean please?
TLDR

What are you trying to do?
Perhaps we can get a better handle on your question knowing what you hope to achieve.

If a book was published on how to skirt the laws, steps would be taken to fix those points.

Why bother skirting laws, why not just spend your energy and effort in building what you want.

Most codes are designed to help with safety.
Whether its about the building or your health.