Bolthole Index

Ashley County, Arkansas

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Ashley County, Arkansas

79Index Score / 100
#11 of 75 in Arkansas

Ashley County, Arkansas does not list a residential building-permit office for unincorporated land, but an official county statement confirming the permit rule could not be found; ask the County Clerk before building.12 Arkansas building-code requirements still apply statewide, and septic construction requires approval before work begins.34

At a glance

Building permit
No county program is listed, but confirm the requirement with the County Clerk1
Building code
Arkansas building-code requirements apply statewide3
County zoning
Municipal rules vary; county zoning for unincorporated land is not confirmed5
Septic
Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent approves permits6
RV or tiny home
Long-term occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask the County Clerk and any municipality7
Owner-builder
An owner building the owner's residence may qualify for a state contractor-license exemption8
Private well
A general permit requirement could not be confirmed; state preapproval applies to public and semi-public wells9

Who to call

Also useful

Ashley County Clerk

County records and first contact for confirming county ordinances or the responsible local office

(870) 853-2020

ashleycoclerk@sbcglobal.net

205 East Jefferson Street #5 Hamburg, Ar 71646

Septic permits

Ashley County Health Unit

Local health-unit contact for Arkansas onsite-wastewater permitting questions

870-853-5525

Roads & driveways

Ashley County Road Department

County-road maintenance and culvert sizing

870-853-2000

Also useful

Ashley County 911 Coordinator's Office

Addresses for new structures and mobile homes

870-853-9444

ACVA911Help@gmail.com

205 E. Jefferson St #13 Hamburg, AR 71646

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Ashley County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Ashley County, Arkansas?

Ashley County does not list a residential building or inspection office for unincorporated land, but we could not confirm an official county statement that a residential building permit is never required.1 Before ordering materials, ask the Ashley County Clerk to confirm that the parcel is unincorporated and identify any current county or other approval.2

Arkansas building-code requirements apply statewide even where permits or inspections are not required.3 The statewide code covers new structures and applicable alterations, additions, and changes in use.10 Ashley County building inspections and certificates of occupancy also could not be confirmed, so ask the County Clerk who, if anyone, must inspect or approve the finished home.2

Who handles Ashley County building and land-use questions?

Ashley County does not list a building or inspection department administering residential building permits in unincorporated areas.1 The Ashley County Clerk is the practical first call for county records and for identifying any ordinance or responsible office affecting a parcel.2

A new structure or mobile home can also need an emergency-service address from the Ashley County 911 Coordinator's Office.11 For a county-road culvert, the Road Department instructs owners to obtain an emergency-service address, mark the proposed location, contact the County Judge's Office, and let the road supervisor determine the proper size.12 A driveway on an Arkansas state highway requires a separate Arkansas Department of Transportation permit.13

Does Ashley County have zoning?

Local zoning varies across Ashley County: Crossett publishes planning, zoning, and subdivision ordinances, while Hamburg separately reviews mobile and manufactured homes placed inside its city limits.5 Those municipal controls do not establish the rule for unincorporated land, and we could not confirm whether Ashley County administers zoning there; ask the Ashley County Clerk for the current ordinance record.52

County setback, minimum-lot-size, minimum-home-size, building-height, and lot-coverage rules for unincorporated parcels could not be confirmed.7 Deed restrictions, easements, septic siting, and utility requirements can still constrain a building site.4 Subdivisions proposing standard onsite wastewater systems also need Arkansas Department of Health review of the overall wastewater plan.14

How do septic permits work in Ashley County?

The Arkansas Department of Health administers onsite-wastewater permits in Ashley County, directly or through an Authorized Agent or local health unit; the Ashley County Health Unit is the local contact listed by the county.1516 Obtain construction approval before installing or modifying a system.4 The finished system must be inspected, approved, and issued a Permit for Operation before use.17

Individual septic review fees run from $30 through $150 based on dwelling size; residential garages, carports, and porches are excluded from that square-footage calculation.18 Only about 9.1% of county soils avoid a severe conventional-drain-field limitation, so make the site evaluation an early purchase contingency.19 If a qualifying sanitary sewer is available within 300 feet of the building's sewer-exit point, the premises must connect instead of using a privy or onsite system.20

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Ashley County?

Ashley County's rules for long-term RV living, temporary camping, and tiny-home occupancy on unincorporated private land could not be confirmed; ask the County Clerk about the parcel and the relevant city if it lies inside municipal limits.2 Local rules do vary: Hamburg requires a written request and city approval before a mobile or manufactured home is moved into city limits.21

A tiny home used as a residence still faces statewide construction standards applicable to new structures.10 Sanitation is a separate gate: an onsite system needs construction approval, inspection, and a Permit for Operation before use.417 A fee-based parcel with three or more RV, tiny-house-on-wheels, or mobile-home spaces is regulated as a park, so a multi-space project has rules beyond the unanswered question for one private site.22

Building a home in Ashley County: what are the steps?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is inside a city, then ask the Ashley County Clerk about current county ordinances and any residential building approval.2
  2. Design to Arkansas's statewide building-code requirements, and confirm whether the owner-builder contractor-license exemption fits the project.38
  3. Arrange the septic site evaluation, budget the published review fee, and obtain construction approval before onsite-wastewater work begins.418
  4. Secure an emergency-service address through the Ashley County 911 Coordinator's Office.11
  5. Coordinate a county-road culvert with the Road Department, or obtain a separate state-highway driveway permit.1213
  6. Have the septic installation inspected and wait for the Permit for Operation before use.17

What should you check before buying land in Ashley County?

Start with wastewater feasibility: only about 9.1% of Ashley County soils avoid a severe conventional-drain-field limitation, so make an acceptable system and cost part of the purchase contingency.19 Ask whether a qualifying sanitary sewer is available within 300 feet of the building's sewer-exit point, because the premises may have to connect.20

Verify legal access and whether the frontage is a county road or state highway; state-highway driveways require an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit.13 Ask the County Clerk about ordinances, easements, recorded restrictions, and the correct local floodplain contact; the available state floodplain rule covers projects in the Building Authority Division program, not private development generally.223 Private-well permitting remains unconfirmed, while public and semi-public wells require written state approval before construction.9

Watch-outs

  • Ashley County does not list a residential building-permit office, but the permit requirement remains unconfirmed; ask the County Clerk before building.12
  • Municipal zoning varies, while zoning, parcel setbacks, and long-term RV occupancy on unincorporated land remain unconfirmed.5
  • Conventional septic conditions are difficult across most of Ashley County because only about 9.1% of soils avoid a severe drain-field limitation.19
  • A qualifying available sanitary sewer within 300 feet requires connection and rules out a privy or onsite wastewater system on the premises.20

Sources

  1. Ashley County - County Officials (2026 county census)
  2. Ashley County Clerk (ashleycountyar.com)
  3. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  4. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  5. cityofcrossett-ar.com, quoted and re-checked
  6. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  7. Ashley County - County Officials (2026 county census)
  8. Residential Contractors Licensing Law, quoted and re-checked
  9. 17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Ashley County 911 Coordinator's Office (ashleycountyar.com)
  12. Ashley County Road Department (ashleycountyar.com)
  13. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  15. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  16. Ashley County Health Unit (ashleycountyar.com)
  17. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  18. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  19. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  20. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  21. Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  22. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. 22 CAR § 111-703. Development subject to permitting requirements, quoted and re-checked

Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Ashley County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleAshley CountyBradley CountyChicot CountyDrew CountyUnion CountyCalhoun CountyCleveland County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADHAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADHAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Ashley County in Arkansas

79
County map
Ashley County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Ashley County scores

Seclusion78100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency64100% ev.
Admin Boringness85100% ev.
Durability51100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost83100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$87kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$4,172Land / acre
56"Annual rain
16.1% of yrsSevere drought
23.1 / yr (+19.8)Mid-century 100°F days
17.4 daysMid-century dry spell
2.74" (+5.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.49×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,584Home insurance / yr
0.6% / yrInsurance growth
0.88%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
9,817People within 30 min
684,743People within 2 hr
10,499Radius comparison (15 mi)
19.7People / sq mi
6.9%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
9.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
52,123 acWorkable land screen
67.7%Wooded land
37.1 tonsBiomass / forest ac
64°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Ashley County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Crossett · Town of Fountain Hill · Hamburg · Montrose · Parkdale · Portland · Wilmot

Answers from the rulebook for Ashley County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Ashley County rules

  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning within Ashley County, aggregated across municipal jurisdictions; the documented zoning controls are administered by the respective municipalities and do not establish a county-administered rule for unincorporated areas.

    • Within Crossett, the city publishes separate Title 13 Planning, Title 14 Zoning, and Title 15 Subdivision Regulation ordinances.
    • Within Hamburg, moving a mobile or manufactured home into city limits requires a written request, city review, and compliance with the listed criteria.
    • Hamburg's listed criteria include ownership by the occupant, taxation as real property, proof of ownership, use as the principal structure, at least 500 square feet of living space, construction after 1984, a Good Housekeeping Warranty Seal, connection to sewer, a sloped roof, compliance with Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission setup and anchoring rules, continuous underpinning approved by the City, payment of a $100 publication fee, and final approval by the City Planning Committee.
    • The official sources reviewed did not establish zoning status for every other Ashley County municipality or for unincorporated areas.
    “Title 13 – Planning PDF Link Title 14 – Zoning PDF Link Title 15 – Subdivision Regulation”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Ashley County's official department list includes no planning or zoning office and there is no county-wide zoning ordinance; controls exist only within municipalities.

    Ashley County - County Officials ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Construction subject to the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.

    • The source does not impose a single statewide building-permit requirement for all private residential and commercial construction.
    • Local governments may establish prior plan approval, building-permit requirements, and construction inspections.
    • Counties, cities, or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code for new construction, additions, and renovations.
    • The cited document is the 2014 Arkansas Energy Code; current Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applicability should be confirmed separately.
    “A local government may exercise other administrative and enforcement procedures that it deems necessary to affect the purposes of this Code, including, but not limited to, prior plan approval, building permit requirements, and inspections during the course of construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction subject to the Arkansas Building Code statewide minimums, including rural and unincorporated areas.
      “They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Owner-builders and owner home-improvement contractors performing residential work in Arkansas, including Ashley County.

    • A person constructing his or her residence is exempt unless more than one residence is built during a calendar year.
    • The owner of a single-family residence may act as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property.
    • A residential building contractor or home improvement contractor is exempt for a project costing no more than $2,000.
    • The $2,000 exemption does not apply when construction work necessary to complete the project is divided into separate contracts of amounts less than $2,000.
    • Additional statutory exemptions include qualifying subcontractors, contractors licensed by another Arkansas licensing agency within the scope of that license, and roofing contractors.

    maximum project cost exemption: <= 2000 USD (The exemption does not apply when the work is divided into separate contracts below $2,000.)

    “The following shall be exempted from the licensing requirements of this subchapter: (1) A person who acts as a residential building contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year; (2) The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — Builders who build or contract to build single-family buildings for their own occupancy under the Arkansas Energy Code.
      “105.1.3 Compliance by Self-Builders: Compliance with this Code by builders who build, or contract to build, single-family buildings for their own occupancy is voluntary.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Arkansas residential contractor licensing for an individual constructing the individual’s own residence or an owner of a single-family residence acting as the owner’s own home-improvement contractor on the owner’s property.
      “construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year;”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    State projects in Arkansas.

    • The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.
    • Arkansas laws and the applicable subchapter take precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed its requirements.
    • All project designs must comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code.
    • Other codes, rules, or standards may apply to a specific project.
    • The department and design professional are responsible for determining all applicable codes for each specific project.
    “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures throughout Arkansas, under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including Volume II for building-code requirements and Volume III for residential-code requirements.
      “Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state shall only adopt and enforce the provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition. [...] The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the International Building Code Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the International Building Code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, shall be made in accordance therewith.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State projects in Arkansas subject to the Building Authority Division design-review rules.
      “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office. Arkansas laws and this subchapter shall have precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed the requirements of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. All project designs shall comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. Other codes, rules, or standards may be applicable to a specific project. It is the department’s and design professional’s responsibility to determine all applicable codes for each specific project.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction or work that must comply with the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.

    • Inspection is required for construction or work that must comply with the cited Code.
    • Inspection may be performed by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission Energy Office, its agent, or the code official.
    • Code officials within a county or municipality that has adopted the Code and normally conducts final inspections shall perform final inspection and approval when the building is completed and ready for occupancy.
    • The local government may conduct additional inspections during construction.
    “Construction or work that must comply with this Code shall be subject to inspection by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission - Energy Office or its agent, or by the code official.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Open-enrollment public charter schools commencing student operations in a new or renovated facility anywhere in Arkansas.

    • Before commencing operations with students, the school must obtain one of three alternative approvals for the new construction or renovation.
    • The alternatives are: a certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official and approved by the state fire marshal; a certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or a certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.
    • A certificate of occupancy is therefore not independently mandatory when one of the two listed alternative approvals is obtained.
    “An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — State of Arkansas construction projects administered by a state owner or agency.
      “Certificates of Occupancy are not issued by any one State Agency for State projects. The responsibility therefore rests with the Owner/Agency of the project.”
    • Limited — Buildings subject to the Arkansas Energy Code when located in a county or municipality that has adopted the Code and conducts final inspections as part of normal operations.
      “An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.

    • The rule applies when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing.
    • The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR Part 138.
    • The owner or operator is responsible for compliance.
    • Waivers or exceptions are considered case by case and approval is at the Department of Health's discretion.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of a mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park requires prior submission and department approval.
    • Detailed plans must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features.

    minimum spaces triggering park regulation: >= 3 spaces (Placement or maintenance services, or both, must be provided for a fee.)

    “Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Occupancy of tiny houses on wheels in Arkansas parcels operating as mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks with three or more paid spaces.

    • The rule expressly includes tiny houses on wheels among spaces triggering mobile-home or recreational-vehicle-park regulation.
    • Placement or maintenance services, or both, must be provided for a fee.
    • The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR Part 138.
    • The owner or operator is responsible for compliance.
    • Waivers or exceptions are considered case by case at the discretion of the Arkansas Department of Health.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of the park requires prior submission and Department approval.
    • Detailed plans and specifications must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features.
    • The rule does not establish a general statewide authorization or prohibition for a single tiny house on wheels outside a qualifying park.

    minimum qualifying spaces: >= 3 spaces (the spaces must be occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes)

    “three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy of tiny houses on wheels in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
      ““Tiny house on wheels” means a structure intended as a habitable dwelling for one (1) or more individuals which, for the purposes of this part, shall be considered a: (A) Mobile home, if plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code, 17 CAR pt. 65; or (B) Recreational vehicle, if not plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code;”
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater systems in Ashley County.

    • The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent approves permits.
    • If no Authorized Agent is designated for a city or county, applications are made to the Department.
    “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department. In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in Ashley County.
      “A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or residence.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas.

    • A completed permit application and detailed plans must be approved before construction of a building or residence.
    • Construction, installation, or modification requires permits for construction and operation before work begins.
    • A permit may be refused where public sewer is reasonably available or economically feasible, subject to the emergency-repair exception.
    • Emergency repairs may proceed without prior permit only if a permit is obtained within 10 working days.
    • Applications are made to the Department or its Authorized Agent; where no local Authorized Agent is designated, applications are made to the Department.
    • Construction must begin within one year after issuance or the permit must be revalidated.
    • The rule is effective September 5, 2024.

    public sewer connection distance: <= 300 feet (when available and connection can be made without crossing another person's property) · emergency repair permit deadline: 10 working days (after repairs are made) · permit review fee for structures 1,500 square feet or less: 30 USD · permit review fee for structures over 1,500 and up to 2,000 square feet: 45 USD · permit review fee for structures over 2,000 and up to 3,000 square feet: 90 USD · permit review fee for structures over 3,000 and up to 4,000 square feet: 120 USD · permit review fee for structures over 4,000 square feet: 150 USD · alteration, repair, or extension permit review fee: 30 USD

    “A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or residence. [...] Permit requirement. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite wastewater system, owned by any other person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency until the owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, modification, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Ashley County.
      “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained in accordance with the RULES PERTAINING TO ONSITE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS prior to the construction, installation or modification of the Onsite Wastewater System.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas after installation or construction.

    • The system must be inspected and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before operation.
    • The owner must obtain a Permit for Operation before the system is used.
    • The installer must notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative when the installation is ready for inspection.
    • The owner or occupant must provide free access at reasonable times for inspection.
    • The installer must submit required installation documentation to the local health unit within five days.
    • The inspection may be performed by the Authorized Agent or, with the Authorized Agent's approval, by the Designated Representative.

    installer documentation deadline: 5 days (after installation pursuant to the approved permit)

    “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent. [...] Within five (5) days, the installer shall submit the required documentation to the local health unit that the system has been installed pursuant to the approved permit. [...] After approval of the inspection, the Authorized Agent will approve and issue a Permit for Operation. The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation and operation inspections for onsite wastewater systems in Ashley County.
      “After approval of the inspection, the Authorized Agent will approve and issue a Permit for Operation. The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.”
    • Required — Installation inspection and operation approval for onsite wastewater systems in Ashley County.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Use of composting or incinerating toilets as components of an Arkansas onsite wastewater system.

    • Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department may be used.
    • The devices must be evaluated by an ANSI-approved laboratory under NSF Standard 41.
    • Wastewater other than urine and feces must be renovated or disposed of under Sections 8 or 9 of the rule.
    • Stabilized compost must be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary landfill.
    • The system remains subject to applicable onsite wastewater permitting and approval requirements.
    “Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Privies and onsite wastewater systems on premises in Ashley County.
      “No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Wells serving public and semi-public water systems in Arkansas.

    • Written approval from the Arkansas Department of Health is required before construction begins.
    • If the well's public or semi-public status is uncertain, the well contractor must obtain a written determination from the Department of Health before construction.
    • This claim does not establish a general construction-permit requirement for private domestic wells.
    “Wells for public and semi-public water systems shall be located, designed, and constructed in accordance with the respective rules of the Department of Health and shall have written approval from the department prior to the start of construction. If uncertain that a well is public or semi-public, the well contractor shall obtain a written determination from the department prior to construction.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Sanitary sewer connections for premises in Ashley County.

    • Connection is required when a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building and is available to the premises without crossing another person's property.
    • When that condition applies, privies and onsite wastewater systems may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.

    sewer distance threshold: <= 300 feet (Sewer must be available and connection must be possible without crossing another person's property.)

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Homes and premises where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits the building and available without crossing another person's property.
      “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within three hundred feet (300’) from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    State and local sales-tax exemption for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment in Arkansas.

    • The utility must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose.
    • Multiple-use meters serving eligible and noneligible structures, facilities, or equipment do not qualify.
    • The farmer must obtain a certificate from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration before the exemption is allowed and provide it to the utility supplier.
    • Qualifying agricultural structures include commercial poultry or livestock facilities, cattle or dairy facilities, and greenhouses used for commercial production.
    • Qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment includes specified cooling, collection, irrigation, pond-pumping, pond-aeration, and holding or sorting-tank equipment used in commercial operations.

    exemption start date: 2014-01-01 · eligible utilities: electricity, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (Must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose) · DFA certificate: true (Required before the exemption is allowed) · water exemption for commercial poultry farming start date: 2021-10-01 (Water must be used exclusively for poultry farming and separately metered)

    “Act 1441 of 2013 provides an exemption from state and local sales taxes for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture and horticulture equipment beginning January 1, 2014. The eligible utility must be separately metered and used only for the purpose of the exemption.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
      “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivisions in Ashley County that propose standard onsite wastewater systems for any lots or tracts.

    • Subdivision plans must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall onsite-wastewater utilization plan.
    • Unsuitable lots or parcels must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
    • Green or community space is not assigned a lot number or considered in approval.
    • Submission is to the local health unit and includes soil-pit, percolation-test if applicable, topography, and other required information.
    • The plan-review fee is at least $100 for one lot, $25 for each following lot, capped at $1,500.

    minimum subdivision plan review fee: >= 100 USD (For one lot.) · additional lot review fee: per 25 USD (Each following lot; total maximum $1,500.) · maximum subdivision plan review fee: 1500 USD

    “All subdivision plans, which are proposed to utilize standard onsite wastewater systems as a method of wastewater treatment for all or part of the lots or tracts in said subdivision, shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall plan for the utilization of onsite wastewater systems.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plans in Ashley County that propose standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of the lots or tracts.
      “All subdivision plans, which are proposed to utilize standard onsite wastewater systems as a method of wastewater treatment for all or part of the lots or tracts in said subdivision, shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall plan for the utilization of onsite wastewater systems.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats that are boundary surveys creating parcels in Arkansas.
      “Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office [...] Filing is not required [...] for survey plats [...] located in a municipality [...]”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction, reconstruction, modification, or relocation of access driveways on Arkansas State Highway right-of-way, including residential, commercial, and temporary access driveways.

    • No work may begin on State Highway right-of-way until the engineer issues the permit.
    • Applications are made to the District Engineer and include a work description, location, applicant contact information, and required drawings or deposit/bond.
    • An Access Management Agreement may require approval or a permit from the relevant jurisdiction; failure to provide it may be grounds for denial.
    • Commercial driveway permits generally require a minimum $1,000 deposit or bond per driveway, with governmental-entity waiver possible.
    • Temporary driveway access is limited to 120 days initially, extendable at 60-day intervals up to 240 days.

    commercial driveway deposit or bond: >= 1000 USD per driveway minimum (May be waived for governmental entities.) · temporary driveway initial duration: <= 120 days maximum (May be extended at 60-day intervals up to 240 total days.) · frontage limit: 50 feet or less (Limited to one driveway.) · rural setback inside adjoining property frontage: >= 10 feet minimum (Urban minimum is 5 feet; Section 6.9 exceptions may apply.)

    “A permit shall be obtained from the Department for all access driveways on State Highways.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development by an Arkansas state department on property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area.

    • The rule applies to a state department proposing the development, not generally to all private or local development statewide.
    • The department must submit an application on a form approved by the Design Review Section.
    • The application must include the application number, date, department or property owner, site address or legal description, development type, brief description, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, attachment acknowledgment, and applicant contact/signature information.
    • Supporting attachments should include the FEMA map, copies of other regulatory permits such as Clean Water Act sections 401 and 404 permits, elevation certificates, a certification of no increase in base flood elevation or no-rise certificate, a flood-proofing certificate, certifications for water supply, sanitary sewer, and on-site waste disposal systems, and notification of watercourse alteration or relocation.
    • The Design Review Section reviews and approves or disapproves the application; if approved, the floodplain administrator issues a development permit for the design phase.
    • The permit must be posted during construction; the site is reviewed before final acceptance; and noncompliant work requires correction or may be designated a nonconforming use site.
    • For riverine watercourse alteration or relocation, the department must notify the division, adjacent communities, and the state NFIP Coordinator at the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission before the alteration or relocation, submit copies to the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, maintain flood-carrying capacity, and provide an engineering study of before-and-after conditions prepared by a registered professional engineer.
    • For structures and equipment pads under the state rule, elevation requirements vary by FEMA-map and base-flood-elevation availability: two feet above adjacent grade where no FEMA map exists; two feet above the Building Authority Division base flood elevation where no nearby FEMA base flood elevation data exists; and one foot above the accepted or mapped base flood elevation in the circumstances specified by 22 CAR § 111-708.

    minimum elevation where no FEMA map exists and site is flood-prone: 2 feet above adjacent grade · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists but no base flood elevation data is provided within 500 feet: 2 feet above the Building Authority Division-established base flood elevation · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists, no site base flood elevation is provided, and a base flood elevation is available within 500 feet or from another authoritative source: 1 foot above the base flood elevation accepted by the division · minimum elevation where FEMA map provides a base flood elevation at the site: 1 foot above the elevation shown on the map in the flood insurance study, if available, or as interpolated between map elevations

    “When a department proposes to develop property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area, the department shall submit an application for a development permit on a form approved by the Design Review Section.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Projects subject to the Arkansas Building Authority Division floodplain-management program; the opened rule is not a general Ashley County land-use ordinance.
      “Developments subject to the Building Authority Division floodplain management program include but are not limited to improvements to, or new construction of buildings, structures, mining, dredging, excavating, drilling operations, filling, grading, paving, landscaping, or storage of equipment or materials.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Basic design-service fees for Arkansas state department projects governed by the Building Authority Division.

    • The schedule is based on total final construction cost, including adjustments by change order or negotiations.
    • For projects less than $50,000 or more than $50,000,000, fees may be negotiated subject to Building Authority Division approval.
    • Specified modifiers apply, including deductions for simple projects and additions for complex projects or projects requiring intensified observation.

    basic fee for construction cost $50,001 to $75,000: 9.25 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $75,001 to $100,000: 9 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $100,001 to $200,000: 8.75 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $1,000,001 to $20,000,000: 6.5 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $42,500,001 to $50,000,000: 4 percent of total final construction cost · fee modifier for simple projects: 1 percentage points minimum deduction · fee modifier for complex projects: 1.5 percentage points maximum addition

    “$50,001 to $75,000 | 9.25%”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas Department of Health onsite-wastewater permit review fees applicable in Ashley County.
      “A fee shall be levied for the review of each permit. Permit fees shall be made payable to the Department.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Arkansas state department development projects located within a hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division-designated flood hazard area.

    • The application is submitted on a Design Review Section-approved form.
    • The application must identify the site, development type, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, attachments, and applicant contact and signature information.
    • Supporting materials may include FEMA maps, other regulatory permits, elevation certificates, no-rise certification, flood-proofing certification, utility or onsite-waste-disposal certification, and watercourse-alteration notification.
    • The Design Review Section reviews and approves or disapproves the application; additional information may be requested.
    • If approved, the floodplain administrator issues a design-phase development permit; the permit must be posted during construction, followed by compliance review before final acceptance.

    permit application timing: before development of covered property · appeal or review completion point: prior to final acceptance

    “the department shall submit an application for a development permit”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas Department of Health onsite-wastewater permit process applicable in Ashley County.
      “Part I of the Permit is the Permit for Construction. Part I of the Permit Application form shall be completed by a Designated Representative and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent prior to initiating construction.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping at Arkansas state-park campsites.

    • Campsites are limited to eight persons, excluding day-use guests, and one camping unit consisting of no more than two structures.
    • Registration at the park office and payment of the camping fee are required before campers are considered registered.
    • At least one adult age eighteen or older must register for and occupy the campsite during the entire registration period, with exceptions for scout troops, camping groups, or multiple family groups when sufficient adult supervision is provided.
    • Registration must occur at the park office on the day of arrival, and campers must occupy the site by the time the visitor information center closes.
    • Campsite occupancy is limited to fourteen days within a thirty-day period in the same park.
    • A seven-day extension may be granted by the Park Superintendent from April through October when campgrounds are not at capacity.
    • Additional extensions require approval by the Director of the State Parks Division for health problems, relocation, or job reassignment; longer extensions may be granted by Park Superintendents from November through March.
    • Campers may not move between campsites in the same park to evade the limits, because permanent or semi-permanent residence is not permitted in a state park.
    • All vehicles and trailers must be parked on hard surfaces or designated sites.
    • State park camping areas are fee areas for registered campers only.
    • The rule addresses state-park campsites and does not establish a statewide rule for camping on private land or land outside state parks.

    maximum persons per campsite: 8 persons (excluding day-use guests) · maximum camping units per campsite: 1 unit (the unit may consist of no more than two structures) · maximum occupancy: <= 14 days per 30-day period (seven-day extensions and other stated extensions may apply)

    “Campers may not occupy campsites within the same park in excess of fourteen (14) days within a thirty-day period.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Arkansas counties may establish zoning ordinances for all or part of their unincorporated areas through a county planning board.

    • The county planning board may prepare or cause preparation of the ordinance.
    • The ordinance must include both a map and text.
    • Permitted subjects include building location, height, bulk, stories, size, open space, lot coverage, population density and distribution, and uses of land, buildings, and structures.
    • The ordinance may require off-street parking and loading.
    • The ordinance may provide for compatible-use districts, large-scale unified development, elimination of nonconforming uses, and other matters necessary to county health, safety, and general welfare.
    • The ordinance must designate districts or zones for all or part of the unincorporated area.
    • Regulations must be uniform throughout each district or zone.
    • The ordinance must allow and regulate home-based work as provided in Arkansas Code § 14-1-104.
    “The county planning board shall have authority to prepare, or to cause to be prepared, a zoning ordinance for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county, which ordinance shall include both a map and a text.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • General — Arkansas county planning boards adopting zoning ordinances for all or part of a county's unincorporated area.
      “The county planning board shall have authority to prepare, or to cause to be prepared, a zoning ordinance for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county, which ordinance shall include both a map and a text.”

Inside cities and towns in Ashley County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Placement of a mobile or manufactured home within the City of Hamburg.

    • The home must be owned by the occupant and taxed as real property.
    • It must be the principal structure.
    • Minimum 500 square feet of living space.
    • Built after 1984 and have a Good Housekeeping Warranty Seal.
    • Hooked to sewer; sloped roof; Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission anchoring; approved continuous underpinning.
    • A $100 publication fee is required.
    • The proposed request must receive final City Planning Committee approval.

    minimum living space: >= 500 square feet · publication fee: 100 USD · construction date: > 1984 (must have been built after 1984)

    “If an individual is interested in moving a mobile home/manufactured home into the city limits of Hamburg, a request must be submitted in writing and certain criteria must be met.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Ashley County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size requirements in unincorporated Ashley County, Arkansas.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements for residential development in unincorporated Ashley County, Arkansas.
  • Setbacks — Residential setback requirements in unincorporated Ashley County, Arkansas.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in Ashley County.
4 more unanswered
  • Building height
  • Camping on your land
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Ashley County, Arkansas

Is Ashley County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Ashley County scores 79/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost.

Do you need a building permit in Ashley County, Arkansas?

Ashley County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Program (Ashley County Health Unit). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Ashley County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Ashley County is limited to specific cases: Statewide rule. Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138. The rule applies when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing. The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR Part 138. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Ashley County, Arkansas?

Land in Ashley County runs about $4,172 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Ashley County?

Ashley County gets about 56" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 16.1% of years.

How remote is Ashley County?

A representative private-land location has about 9,817 people within a 30-minute drive and 684,743 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Ashley compares in Arkansas

Compare side-by-side →See all 75 Arkansas counties ranked →