Bolthole Index

Calhoun County, Arkansas

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

78Index Score / 100
#17 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Calhoun County, Arkansas does not require a county building permit for a home1. The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code still applies statewide, including its building and residential volumes23. The city of Hampton issues its own building permits for new structures, footprint changes and demolition, but septic permits for every address, city or not, come through the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent45. We could not confirm whether the county has zoning for unincorporated land6.

At a glance

Building permit (unincorporated county)
Not required for a home1
Building permit (Hampton)
Required for new structures, footprint changes and demolition4
Zoning
Countywide adoption could not be confirmed6
Septic permit
Handled under the statewide ADH program7
RV or tiny-home occupancy
Private-land rules could not be confirmed6
Owner-builder
State contractor-license exemption may apply to your own home8
Private well permit
A separate household-well permit could not be confirmed9

Who to call

Building permits

Hampton City Hall (Building Permits)

Building permits for work inside Hampton city limits.

870-798-2753

121 South 2nd Street, Hampton, AR 71744

Also useful

Calhoun County Courthouse

General county contact for unconfirmed zoning, floodplain and land-use questions.

870-798-4818

Second & Main Streets, Hampton, AR 71744

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health Onsite Wastewater Program

Statewide onsite-wastewater policy and permit support through county environmental health specialists.

501-661-2171

4815 W. Markham Street, Slot 46, Little Rock, AR 72205

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

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

Unincorporated Calhoun County does not require a county building permit for a home1. That answer concerns permit administration, not construction standards: the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and includes building and residential codes23. An owner acting as contractor on the owner's residence is exempt from residential-builder licensing unless the owner builds more than one residence in a calendar year; the exemption does not waive permits or codes8. Nonresidential farm buildings also have a limited exemption from state electrical-code licensing requirements, not a blanket exemption from other land or construction rules10.

Inside Hampton city limits, new structures, footprint changes and demolition require a city permit4. Hampton City Hall issues those permits and answers questions about work inside city limits11. Calhoun County inspection stages and a general certificate-of-occupancy process could not be confirmed; ask the courthouse and the relevant city before construction12.

Who issues building and septic permits in Calhoun County, and how do you reach them?

Calhoun County has no county building office identified in the state directory, supporting the finding that a home on unincorporated land needs no county building permit1. The Calhoun County Courthouse is the first call for parcel-specific floodplain, road or land-use questions that remain unconfirmed12.

For work inside Hampton, Hampton City Hall issues building permits during normal business hours, with a fee of $5.00 for the first $1,000 of building cost and $2.50 per $1,000 after that114. Hampton's permit does not cover septic, which stays with the state health program below. For septic, the Arkansas Department of Health Onsite Wastewater Program sets statewide policy and assists county environmental health specialists13. Applications go to a local Authorized Agent where one is designated, or to the Department where none exists14. Calhoun County's specific Authorized Agent could not be confirmed, so contact the state program for the correct route before ordering a soil evaluation13.

Does Calhoun County have zoning?

We could not confirm that Calhoun County has adopted countywide zoning for unincorporated land. The state directory identifies no county planning or zoning office6, but an absent office listing does not settle parcel-level rules. Ask the Calhoun County Courthouse about building setbacks, lot coverage, height, minimum dwelling size and private-land accessory dwellings before buying or siting a structure12. Arkansas's statewide accessory-dwelling rule applies within municipalities and requires them to allow at least one qualifying accessory dwelling on a parcel with a single-family home; it does not create an accessory-dwelling right on unincorporated county land15.

Hampton's permit ordinance covers new construction, footprint changes and demolition inside city limits4. Hampton also sets separate lot, spacing, installation and utility standards for manufactured homes within the city16. Verify jurisdiction from the deed, survey and tax parcel rather than relying only on a Hampton mailing address.

How do septic permits work in Calhoun County?

Calhoun County septic systems fall under the Arkansas Department of Health framework. The Department or its Authorized Agent issues construction and operation permits; applications go to a designated local agent where one exists and otherwise to the Department14. State individual sewage-disposal permit fees run from $30 to $150 based on structure size; these are septic fees, not a Calhoun County building-permit schedule17. A completed application and plans must be approved before construction of a building or residence, and emergency repairs may start first only if a permit follows within 10 working days518. Onsite wastewater components generally must be at least 10 feet from buildings and property lines, 100 feet from a domestic water source and 100 feet from a stream or lake high-water mark, with other water-body conditions and possible greater site-specific distances19.

A new well must sit at least 50 feet from any lot line and at least 100 feet from any part of a proposed onsite wastewater system20. A permit is refused where public sewer is reasonably available or economically feasible21. Surface-discharge systems require at least 3 acres plus applicable setbacks22. In subdivisions using onsite wastewater, construction cannot begin on a lot until the Department approves the wastewater submission; drip-dispersal lots must be at least 0.5 acre2324. Only about 2.5% of county soils avoid severe conventional-drain-field limitations, so make the soil evaluation an early purchase contingency25.

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

We could not confirm a Calhoun County rule that generally allows or prohibits full-time living in one RV or tiny home on an individual private parcel. The county directory identifies no planning or zoning office6, but that does not answer occupancy, utility, sanitation, setback or floodplain questions. Ask the Calhoun County Courthouse for the parcel's rule, and ask the relevant city if the property is incorporated12.

Arkansas's park rules answer a different question. A recreational-vehicle park reaches the regulated threshold at 3 or more transient-dwelling spaces or qualifying spaces supported by fee-based placement or maintenance services, and Department-approved plans are required before construction, alteration, repair or expansion26. A tiny house on wheels in that setting is treated as a mobile home if plumbed and inspected under the Arkansas Plumbing Code, and as an RV if it is not27. The park rule does not decide whether temporary camping is allowed on one private parcel28. Composting or incinerating toilets must be Department-authorized, while other wastewater still needs approved handling29.

What are the steps to build a home in Calhoun County?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside Hampton; Hampton requires permits for new structures, footprint changes and demolition4.
  2. For unincorporated land, confirm the county permit answer and ask the courthouse about private-development floodplain and road requirements112. The state floodplain permit identified in the rules is for state capital projects and does not establish Calhoun County's process for private development30.
  3. Design to statewide construction standards even if no county permit or inspection is required31.
  4. Determine whether public sewer is available before designing septic; an available sewer can rule out an onsite permit21.
  5. Route septic approval through the Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before construction32.
  6. An owner building the owner's residence may use the licensing exemption if no more than one residence is built in the calendar year, but applicable permits and codes remain8.
  7. Obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit before working on state-highway right-of-way33.

What should you check before buying land in Calhoun County?

Put septic feasibility near the top of the purchase contract: only about 2.5% of Calhoun County soils avoid severe conventional-drain-field limitations25. About 99.2% of land has a slope of 15% or less34, but gentle ground does not guarantee suitable soil or drainage. About 88.9% of the county is wooded, so price clearing and access before closing35.

Confirm legal access and road ownership. A driveway entering state-highway right-of-way needs an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit before work begins33. A separate private household-well permit could not be confirmed; state approval is expressly required for public and semi-public wells, so ask the Arkansas Department of Health and a licensed well contractor about a domestic well9. The median property-tax bill is about $485 per year, with an effective rate near 0.5%3637.

Watch-outs

  • Unincorporated Calhoun County's lack of a home-building permit does not waive Arkansas construction standards131.
  • Countywide zoning and private-land RV occupancy could not be confirmed; Arkansas park rules for 3 or more spaces do not answer what is allowed on one private parcel12626.
  • Conventional septic conditions are difficult across most of Calhoun County because only about 2.5% of soils avoid a severe drain-field limitation25.

Sources

  1. Arkansas.gov - Calhoun County (2026 county census)
  2. 22 CAR § 111-801. Energy conservation generally, quoted and re-checked
  3. Administrative Rules Subcommittee Summary Agenda — 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, quoted and re-checked
  4. Building Permits & Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  5. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  6. Arkansas.gov - Calhoun County (2026 county census)
  7. Arkansas Department of Health - Onsite Wastewater (2026 county census)
  8. Home Improvement New Application, quoted and re-checked
  9. 17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. 17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions, quoted and re-checked
  11. Hampton City Hall (Building Permits) (cityofhamptonar.gov)
  12. Calhoun County Courthouse (portal.arkansas.gov)
  13. Arkansas Department of Health Onsite Wastewater Program (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  14. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  15. arkleg.state.ar.us, quoted and re-checked
  16. City of Hampton Ordinance No. 2018-03 Regarding Manufactured Homes, quoted and re-checked
  17. Onsite Wastewater Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  18. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  19. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  20. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  21. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  22. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  23. 14 CAR § 21-405. Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  24. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  25. 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
  26. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  27. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  28. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  29. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  31. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  32. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  33. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  34. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 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, Calhoun County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleCalhoun CountyUnion CountyOuachita CountyBradley CountyCleveland CountyDallas CountyNevada County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsADHAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Calhoun County in Arkansas

78
County map
Calhoun County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Calhoun County scores

Seclusion71100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency65100% ev.
Admin Boringness82100% ev.
Durability52100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost87100% 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 →

$130kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$2,591Land / acre
55.4"Annual rain
12.5% of yrsSevere drought
25.8 / yr (+21.3)Mid-century 100°F days
18.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.6" (+6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.49×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,561Home insurance / yr
1.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.33%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
14,017People within 30 min
1,372,571People within 2 hr
10,822Radius comparison (15 mi)
7.4People / sq mi
0%Federal land
99.2%Land at 15% slope or less
2.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
9,844 acWorkable land screen
88.9%Wooded land
52.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
63°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Calhoun 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.

Hampton · Town of Harrell · Thornton · Town of Tinsman

Answers from the rulebook for Calhoun County

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

Calhoun County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county planning or zoning office is listed for Calhoun County, consistent with this rural Arkansas county having no county-wide zoning in unincorporated areas.

    Arkansas.gov - Calhoun County ↗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 owners acting as their own home-improvement contractors for single-family residential work in Arkansas, including Calhoun County.

    • A person acting as a residential building contractor in constructing their residence is exempt unless they build more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • The owner of a single-family residence acting as their own home-improvement contractor on their own property is exempt.
    • Projects costing $2,000 or less are exempt, but the exemption does not apply when necessary construction work is divided into separate contracts below $2,000.
    • Subcontractors of a contractor licensed by the Residential Contractors Committee are exempt.
    • A person or entity licensed by another Arkansas licensing agency, board, or commission is exempt when performing work within that license's scope.
    • This licensing exemption does not eliminate other applicable building-code, septic, floodplain, or local requirements.

    maximum residences built by owner-builder under residence exemption: 1 residence per calendar year (Exemption ends if more than one residence is built during the calendar year.) · project-cost exemption threshold: <= 2000 USD (Does not apply if work is divided into separate contracts below $2,000.)

    “The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property;”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — Residential builder and home-improvement contractor licensing for an owner acting as the contractor in construction of the owner's residence or as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's property in Arkansas.
      “The following are exemptions to the residential builder and home improvement licensing requirements: (1) owners are exempt from licensure when acting as the contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year (2) owners acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property”
    • Available — Residential contractor licensing for an owner constructing the owner's residence or acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor in Calhoun County.
      “The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property;”
    • Available — Arkansas residential-contractor licensing exemptions for an owner constructing the owner's residence or acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's property.
      “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;”
    • 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 adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building and residential code requirements in Calhoun County and other Arkansas jurisdictions.

    • The official source describes the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code as statewide and applicable to all Arkansas jurisdictions.
    • The source states that Volume II is the Building Code based on the International Building Code and Volume III is the Residential Code based on the International Residential Code.
    • The source states that the International Codes were amended and adopted effective January 1, 2014, and identifies the then-current Arkansas Fire Prevention Code as the 2012 Edition.
    • The source also describes proposed 2021-code amendments and a proposed effective date of January 1, 2023; the current edition should be confirmed from the State Fire Marshal before relying on edition-specific requirements.

    effective date stated for International Code adoption: 2014-01-01

    “The International Codes were amended and adopted, effective January 1, 2014, by the Arkansas State Police. The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New construction projects and renovations in Arkansas, including projects in Calhoun County, subject to the cited statewide code requirements.
      “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
    • 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.”
    • Partial — 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.”
    • 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.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots in Arkansas proposed for subdivision development when sizing or approving onsite wastewater systems

    • The rule concerns onsite wastewater system siting and does not establish a general county land-use minimum lot size.
    • For lots under 3 acres, the stated soil-depth criteria apply.
    • Interceptor drains may be used only under the conditions stated in the rule.
    • Drip dispersal design requires the listed bedrock-depth, flagged absorption-area, and legal-description criteria; lots using drip dispersal must be at least 0.5 acres.
    • Submission must be made to the local health unit using an approved method.

    minimum lot size for lots using drip dispersal design: >= 0.5 acre · lot-size threshold for specified soil-depth criteria: < 3 acres

    “Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be 0.5 acres or larger.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Onsite wastewater system facilities in Calhoun County, including collection, treatment, and renovation facilities.

    • The listed distances are minimum horizontal distances and apply where ideal conditions indicate they are sufficient; greater distances are required where local conditions demand.
    • Waivers, except those involving public water supplies, must be submitted to and approved by the Department.
    • Waivers affecting public water supplies must be submitted to and approved by Engineering.
    • At least 300 feet from the high-water mark of a body of water if within one-quarter mile of a public water supply intake on that body of water.
    • At least 300 feet from a spring used as a public water supply.
    • At least 100 feet from any source of domestic water supply.
    • At least 100 feet from the high-water mark of any stream or lake.
    • At least 50 feet from a pond on the same property and at least 100 feet from a pond on adjacent properties if in the pond watershed; in no case may the minimum separation from a pond be less than 50 feet.
    • At least 10 feet from any dwelling or building.
    • At least 10 feet from all property lines.
    • At least 10 feet from any water service line under the Arkansas Plumbing Code.
    • At least 100 feet from any sinkhole.

    distance from body of water near public water intake: >= 300 feet (Applies if within one-quarter mile of a public water supply intake on that body of water.) · distance from public-water-supply spring: >= 300 feet · distance from domestic water supply: >= 100 feet · distance from stream or lake high-water mark: >= 100 feet · distance from pond on same property: >= 50 feet (If in the pond watershed.) · distance from pond on adjacent property: >= 100 feet (If in the pond watershed; never less than 50 feet.) · distance from dwelling or building: >= 10 feet · distance from property line: >= 10 feet · distance from water service line: >= 10 feet (See Arkansas Plumbing Code.) · distance from sinkhole: >= 100 feet

    “Facilities used for the collection, treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least: [...] (3) One hundred feet (100’) from any source of domestic water supply; (4) One hundred feet (100’) from the high-water mark of any stream or lake; [...] (6) Ten feet (10’) from any dwelling or building; (7) Ten feet (10’) from all property lines; [...] (9) One hundred feet (100’) from any sinkhole.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Facilities used for the collection, treatment, and renovation of onsite wastewater systems in Calhoun County, including primary and secondary absorption areas.
      “Facilities used for the collection, treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least: (1) Three hundred feet (300’) from the high-water mark of any body of water, if within one quarter (1/4) mile of a public water supply intake on that body of water; (2) Three hundred feet (300’) from any spring used as a public water supply; (3) One hundred feet (100’) from any source of domestic water supply; (4) One hundred feet (100’) from the high-water mark of any stream or lake; (5)(A) Fifty feet (50’) from any pond on the same property and at least one hundred feet (100’) from any pond on adjacent properties, if in the pond watershed. (B) In no case shall the minimum separation distance from any pond be less than fifty feet (50’); (6) Ten feet (10’) from any dwelling or building; (7) Ten feet (10’) from all property lines; (8)(A) Ten feet (10’) from any water service line. (B) See Arkansas Plumbing Code, 17 CAR pt. 65; and (9) One hundred feet (100’) from any sinkhole.”
    • Specified — Onsite wastewater systems and related wells in Calhoun County under Arkansas statewide rules
      “the well shall be located at least 50 feet from any lot line, and at least 100 feet from any part of the onsite wastewater system proposed on the same lot and onsite wastewater systems proposed on any adjacent lots.”
    • Specified — Minimum horizontal setbacks for onsite wastewater facilities in Calhoun County under Arkansas Department of Health rules; these are wastewater-system setbacks, not general building-yard setbacks.
      “shall be at least 10 feet from all property lines.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Parcels with three or more spaces occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee.

    • The rule applies to new or existing parcels.
    • 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.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension requires Department of Health approval before work begins.
    • Requests for waivers or exceptions are considered case-by-case at the Department of Health's discretion.

    minimum spaces: >= 3 spaces · placement or maintenance services: 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational-vehicle parks with three or more spaces where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee, including such parks in Calhoun County.
      “Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles”
    • Limited — Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
      “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”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Tiny houses on wheels placed in Arkansas parcels where three or more spaces are provided for a fee or otherwise constitute a regulated mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park.
      ““Tiny house on wheels” means a structure intended as a habitable dwelling”
    • Limited — Tiny houses on wheels used as habitable dwellings in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks, including parks in Calhoun County.
      ““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”
    • Limited — Parcels with three or more spaces occupied or intended for occupancy by tiny houses on wheels where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee.
      “When a mobile home, tiny house on wheels, or recreational vehicle park is proposed or remodeled, properly prepared plans and specifications for such construction, remodeling, or alteration shall be submitted to the Department of Health for approval before any work is begun.”
    • 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;”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed

    At least one accessory dwelling unit on a lot or parcel containing a single-family dwelling within an Arkansas municipality.

    • The accessory dwelling unit must be self-contained and independently accessed on the same parcel as a larger single-family dwelling, with cooking, sleeping, and sanitation facilities, and must comply with or be exempt from applicable regulatory requirements.
    • A municipality may regulate short-term rentals.
    • A municipality may require plan-review and application fees up to $250 per accessory dwelling unit, in addition to usual building fees.
    • A detached or attached accessory dwelling unit may not exceed 75 percent of the primary dwelling's gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less.
    • Municipalities may require a municipal water and sewer will-serve letter, or Department of Health approval where municipal water or sewer is unavailable.
    • The statute does not supersede applicable regulatory requirements or prevent more permissive local rules.
    • Policies, regulations, or ordinances in effect on or after January 1, 2026 that conflict with the statute are invalid to the extent of the conflict.
    • The statute does not establish an accessory-dwelling rule for unincorporated county land.

    maximum detached or attached ADU size: 75% of primary dwelling gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less (Internal ADUs are not subject to this stated detached-or-attached size limitation.) · ADU application fee: <= 250 USD per accessory dwelling unit (Usual building fees may be charged in addition.)

    “a municipality shall not adopt a policy, regulation, or ordinance that restricts, prohibits, or otherwise regulates”
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater and septic permitting for properties in Calhoun County under Arkansas statewide requirements.

    • A completed permit application and detailed plans must be approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before construction of a building or residence.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of an onsite wastewater system requires a valid Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.
    • Operation requires inspection and approval plus a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.
    • For cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent acts for the Department; if no Authorized Agent has been designated for a city or county, applications must be made to the Department.
    • Emergency repairs may begin without prior notification to the Authorized Agent if a permit is obtained within ten working days.
    • A sanitary sewer connection is required when the sewer is within 300 feet of the building sewer outlet and available without crossing another person's property.

    sewer connection distance: <= 300 feet (Applies when sanitary sewer is available and connection can be made without crossing another person's property.) · installer notice before work: >= 24 hours (Emergency repairs may proceed without prior notification if a permit is obtained within ten working days.) · emergency repair permit deadline: <= 10 working days (Permit must be obtained after emergency repairs.)

    “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Mixed — Onsite wastewater systems in Calhoun County, including systems under the statewide Arkansas Department of Health rules.
      “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.”
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in Calhoun County, including applications, permit approval, construction, installation, modification, and operation.
      “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.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Emergency repairs to onsite wastewater systems in Calhoun County, Arkansas.
      “except that emergency repairs may be undertaken without prior issuance of a permit, provided a permit is subsequently obtained within ten (10) working days after the repairs are made.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems serving domestic buildings or residences in Calhoun County under Arkansas statewide rules.
      “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained”
  • 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.”
  • 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”
  • 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 hookupSewer (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.

    • When the stated distance and availability conditions are met, connection to the sanitary sewer is required.
    • Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises under that condition.

    sewer distance from building sewer-exit point: <= 300 feet (sewer must be 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Use of onsite wastewater systems where a public sewer system may serve the property in Calhoun County.
      “a Permit for the construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of an onsite wastewater system or alternate/experimental system shall be refused where public sewer systems are reasonably available or economically feasible”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Electrical-code licensing requirements for construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of nonresidential farm buildings or structures in Calhoun County
      “The licensing requirements of Arkansas Code § 17-28-101 et seq. shall not apply to the following: [...] The construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
    • 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 Calhoun County that use onsite wastewater systems

    • The requirement is specific to utilization of onsite wastewater systems and does not establish that every aspect of subdivision development is regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health.
    • Construction of any type on a subdivision lot cannot begin until final Department of Health approval of the onsite-wastewater submission.
    • The rule permits limited delegation to a property owners association, but final permit approval remains with the authorized department agent as stated in the rule.
    “Construction of any type shall not begin upon any lot in the subdivision until final approval of the submission for utilization of onsite wastewater systems within the subdivision has been made by the Department of Health.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision development in Arkansas where onsite wastewater systems are proposed, including applicable subdivisions in Calhoun County.
      “shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health”
    • 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 — State capital improvement projects in Arkansas located within a flood-prone area, including such projects in Calhoun County.
      “(a)(1) The Design Review Section shall review all capital improvement projects to determine whether the proposed development will be reasonably safe from flooding. (2) If the proposed site is within a flood-prone area, a development permit shall be submitted and approved prior to releasing the project for bidding or construction.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Arkansas Department of Health onsite wastewater and related plan-review permits applicable in Calhoun County

    • These are statewide Arkansas Department of Health onsite wastewater fees, not a confirmed Calhoun County building-permit fee schedule.
    • Plan review fees are collected when plans are submitted and before review.
    • Individual sewage-disposal permit fees vary by structure size.
    • Trailer park plan-review fees vary by number of spaces.

    individual sewage disposal permit, structure up to 1500 square feet: 30 USD · individual sewage disposal permit, structure more than 1500 and up to 2000 square feet: 45 USD · individual sewage disposal permit, structure more than 2000 and up to 3000 square feet: 90 USD · individual sewage disposal permit, structure more than 3000 and up to 4000 square feet: 120 USD · individual sewage disposal permit, structure more than 4000 square feet: 150 USD · trailer park plan review, 2-25 spaces: 25 USD · trailer park plan review, 26-50 spaces: 50 USD · trailer park plan review, 51-75 spaces: 75 USD · trailer park plan review, 76 or more spaces: 100 USD

    “Individual Sewage Disposal Permit Fees are determined by structure size:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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”
  • 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.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Operation or construction of a recreational vehicle park in Arkansas, including a parcel with three or more recreational-vehicle spaces used for transient dwelling purposes or with placement or maintenance services provided for a fee.
      “Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and”
    • Limited — Manufactured homes placed in Arkansas parcels where three or more spaces are provided for a fee or otherwise constitute a regulated mobile-home park.
      “No person, firm, corporation, or association shall begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension”
    • Limited — Transient camping or dwelling in a regulated recreational-vehicle park in Arkansas.
      “for transient dwelling purposes, typically by night or week”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Recreational-vehicle occupancy at Arkansas state-park campsites, including state parks in or serving Calhoun County.
      “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 Calhoun County

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

  • Building permitRequired

    New construction, changes to the existing footprint including building additions, siding and porches, and demolition within the City of Hampton, Arkansas.

    • The Hampton page states that permits are issued inside city limits.
    • Permits are not required for shingling, painting, or any other activity in which proximity to property lines may be affected.
    • The permit fee is $5.00 for the first $1,000 of building cost and $2.50 per $1,000 thereafter; demolition uses the same rate.
    • The permit must be posted in clear view before construction begins and is valid for 12 months from issuance.

    permit fee for first $1,000 of building cost: 5 USD · permit fee above first $1,000: 2.5 USD per $1,000 · permit validity: 12 months

    “Every person, firm or corporation who intends to do any of the following activities must obtain a building permit. [...] Building activities requiring a permit are as follows: 1. Any activity involving new construction of any structure. 2. An activity involving a change of the existing footprint of any structure, including building additions, siding and porches. 3. Any activity involving demolition of any structure.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes situated within the corporate limits of Hampton, Arkansas, including manufactured-home parks.

    • Each manufactured home must be on a clearly defined lot of at least 3,000 square feet and 40 feet wide.
    • There must be at least 20 feet between manufactured homes, including attached structures.
    • A manufactured home must be at least 10 feet from any building, structure, or private road or drive.
    • It must be at least 25 feet from a public street or highway, unless another applicable front-yard or setback requirement governs.
    • Installation must be performed by an installer licensed by the Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission and comply with federal building code and Commission installation standards.
    • Homes must be properly anchored and skirted or underpinned.
    • Homes must have sanitation facilities and comply with state and city health codes for water and sewer connection and disposal.
    • A new manufactured-home park requires a City of Hampton operator permit before operation.
    • The manufactured-home-park operator permit fee is $25, is valid for one year, and requires annual renewal and park inspection.
    • The ordinance applies to homes brought into or moved within the corporate limits after its effective date.
    • The ordinance states it is in full force and effect after passage and approval, but the document does not state a specific passage date.

    minimum lot area: >= 3000 square feet · minimum lot width: >= 40 feet · clearance between manufactured homes: >= 20 feet (Includes attached structures.) · clearance from building, structure, or private road or drive: >= 10 feet · clearance from public street or highway: >= 25 feet (Unless another applicable front-yard or setback requirement applies.) · operator permit fee: 25 USD (Per manufactured-home-park operator permit.)

    “All manufactured homes situated in the corporate limits of the city shall be located on a clearly defined lot”

Still unanswered

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

  • Local zoning — Aggregate of municipal and other local zoning controls within Calhoun County; this claim does not assume that the county administers incorporated-place ordinances.
  • Zoning districts — Zoning districts and zoning-map publication for Calhoun County, Arkansas, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Calhoun County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage requirements in Calhoun County, including unincorporated areas
  • Building height — Building height requirements in Calhoun County, including unincorporated areas
1 more unanswered
  • 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.

Water rights & wells in Calhoun County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Arkansas’s water agency.

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Critical Groundwater Area designation in Arkansas is explicitly NON-regulatory — no water right or permit is required to drill or use a well, even inside a critical area. A new landowner can drill a household well anywhere.

Limit: non-domestic users >=50,000 gpd register; domestic exempt

Arkansas Dept of Agriculture — Water-Use Registration / Critical Groundwater Areas ↗
  • South Arkansas (Sparta) Critical Ground Water Area

    State's first CGWA (1996) over the Sparta aquifer (>360 ft of decline near El Dorado). NON-regulatory conservation designation — domestic wells never barred; Union County use was voluntarily cut and the aquifer is recovering.

    USGS WRI 99-4075 (Sparta Aquifer CGWAs) ↗

Regulated-riparian state (large uses permitted). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Arkansas state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Calhoun County, Arkansas

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

Calhoun County scores 78/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property.

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

Calhoun 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 (ADH) Onsite Wastewater program (via county Environmental Health Specialist). 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 Calhoun County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Calhoun County is limited to specific cases: Statewide rule. Parcels with three or more spaces occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee. The rule applies to new or existing parcels. 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 Calhoun County, Arkansas?

Land in Calhoun County runs about $2,591 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Calhoun County?

Calhoun County gets about 55.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 12.5% of years. On water rights, Calhoun County lies in the South Arkansas (Sparta) Critical Ground Water Area — State's first CGWA (1996) over the Sparta aquifer (>360 ft of decline near El Dorado). NON-regulatory conservation designation — domestic wells never barred; Union County use was voluntarily cut and the aquifer is recovering..

How remote is Calhoun County?

A representative private-land location has about 14,017 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,372,571 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 Calhoun compares in Arkansas

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