Bolthole Index

Crittenden County, Arkansas

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

57Index Score / 100
#73 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Crittenden County, Arkansas requires building permits and has zoning, but we could not confirm the current application process or zoning coverage; start with the County Judge's Office.123 Inside West Memphis, city zoning applies.4 Septic approval comes from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent before home construction; West Memphis also regulates private sewage disposal locally.56

At a glance

Building permit
Required for unincorporated land; ask the County Judge’s Office for the current process13
Zoning
County zoning is indicated; confirm current coverage and district rules2
Septic permits
State health approval before home construction; construction and operating permits required57
Septic process
Construction permit, installation inspection, then operating permit89
Owner-builder
Contractor-license exemption for your own residence, subject to the statewide limit10
RV or tiny-home living
Not confirmed for a single unit on private land; ask the county before occupancy1112
Sewer connection
Required within 300 feet when sewer is available without crossing another person’s property13
Septic soils
No mapped soils are rated free of severe conventional drain-field limits14

Who to call

Building permits

Crittenden County Judge's Office

Administers ordinances enacted by the Quorum Court and operates the county road system; use this office to identify the current building, zoning, floodplain and county-road contacts.

(870) 739-3200

judgewheeless@crittco.com

100 Court Square, Marion, AR 72364

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health Onsite Wastewater Program

Statewide onsite-wastewater policy and assistance to Environmental Health Specialists in county health departments.

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 10, 2026.

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

Crittenden County requires a building permit for construction in unincorporated areas1. We could not confirm the current county application, building-permit fees, inspections or issuing department; call the Crittenden County Judge's Office, which administers Quorum Court ordinances, before ordering plans or starting work3. The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition, applies statewide, including rural Crittenden County; applicable new construction and alterations must meet its building or residential provisions15. A local permit gap does not remove the statewide code requirement15.

Who handles Crittenden County building permits?

A dedicated Crittenden County building department or current permit counter could not be confirmed. The practical starting point is the Crittenden County Judge's Office at 100 Court Square, Marion, AR 72364, by phone at (870) 739-3200 or email at judgewheeless@crittco.com3. Ask which office now accepts building applications, whether your parcel is inside county jurisdiction, what plans and inspections are required, and whether a certificate of occupancy is issued. The statewide source expressly recognizes that some Arkansas areas have no local permit or inspection requirement, so the responsible local authority must answer the parcel-specific question16. For a driveway on a county road, ask the same office for the current access process because it operates the county road system3. A driveway connecting to a state highway requires an ARDOT access permit before work in the highway right-of-way17.

Does Crittenden County have zoning?

Crittenden County has zoning, but we could not confirm current coverage, district boundaries, a zoning map or an administering department2. The county answers here concern unincorporated land; inside West Memphis, the city administers its own zoning districts24. Arkansas Department of Health approval still applies to onsite wastewater, and West Memphis also regulates private sewage disposal locally56. For unincorporated land, ask the County Judge's Office for the current map, allowed uses, setbacks, minimum lot size and special-use procedure; the office administers Quorum Court ordinances3. We could not confirm county agricultural-building exemptions, minimum dwelling size or accessory-dwelling rules; ask the same office before relying on a seller's description3.

How do septic permits work in Crittenden County?

The Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent must approve the onsite-wastewater application and detailed plans before construction of a building or residence in Crittenden County5. A Designated Representative submits the application, plans, specifications and fees to the appropriate local health unit; obtain the construction permit before installing, altering, repairing or extending the system87. The installer must notify the authorized agent or Designated Representative when installation is ready for inspection; the system cannot be used until inspection approval and issuance of the operating permit9. Emergency repairs may proceed first if the required permit is obtained within 10 working days18. Individual permit-review fees range from $30 for structures of 1,500 square feet or less to $150 for more than 4,000 square feet; alterations, repairs and extensions cost $3019. Surface-discharging systems require at least 3 acres plus applicable setbacks20. With 0% of mapped county soils free of severe conventional drain-field limitations, evaluate wastewater feasibility before buying14.

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

We could not confirm whether Crittenden County allows long-term occupancy of a single RV or tiny home on private land; ask the County Judge's Office to identify the zoning and occupancy contact before moving in3. Arkansas's health rule regulates parks with 3 or more paid spaces for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes when placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee; that park rule does not settle single-unit private-parcel occupancy11. Where sanitary sewer is available within 300 feet of the building's sewer exit and connection can be made without crossing another person's property, connection is required and privies or onsite wastewater systems cannot be used1321. Elsewhere, sewage still needs an adequate disposal system and cannot discharge into road ditches or rights-of-way22. Composting or incinerating toilets must be department-authorized and meet state conditions23.

How do you build a home in Crittenden County, step by step?

  1. Call the Crittenden County Judge's Office to identify the current building, zoning, floodplain and county-road contacts3.
  1. Confirm jurisdiction, allowed use, setbacks and the building-permit and inspection process before finalizing plans12. Inside West Memphis, ask the city about zoning; state health approval still applies to septic, with additional city private-sewage oversight456.
  1. Ask the local health unit or state Onsite Wastewater Program whether public-sewer access requires connection before spending money on septic design1324.
  1. If septic is allowed, have a Designated Representative submit the application, plans, specifications and fees to the appropriate local health unit, then secure state health approval before home construction and the septic construction permit before system work857.
  1. Obtain an ARDOT access permit before building a driveway in a state-highway right-of-way17.
  1. Build to the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code and do not use the septic system until its operating permit is issued159. An owner building the owner's own residence may use the contractor-license exemption, but it does not waive permits and is limited to 1 residence per calendar year10.

What should you check before buying land in Crittenden County?

Start with written confirmation of jurisdiction, permitted use, setbacks, legal access and floodplain requirements because current county zoning and floodplain details were not confirmed. Test wastewater feasibility before the due-diligence period ends: 0% of mapped county soils are rated free of severe limits for a conventional drain field14. A subdivision using standard onsite systems must submit plans through the local health unit for state review, including soil, percolation and topographic information25. Annual precipitation is about 53.9 inches, making drainage and flood history worth checking on the tract26. Farmland value averages about $4,236 per acre, while the effective property-tax rate is around 0.6% and the median annual property-tax bill is about $934272829. A private domestic-well permit requirement could not be confirmed; state preconstruction location approval is established only for public-water-system wells30.

Watch-outs

  • Do not rely on an old fee table or zoning label: the current Crittenden County permit office, process, fees, inspections and zoning coverage could not be confirmed ; call the County Judge's Office at (870) 739-32003.
  • Crittenden County's mapped soils show 0% free of severe conventional drain-field limitations, so make wastewater feasibility a purchase contingency14.
  • Public-sewer connection is required within 300 feet of the building's sewer exit when sewer is available without crossing another person's property; privies and onsite wastewater systems are prohibited in that circumstance1321.

Sources

  1. Crittenden County Code of Ordinances, Chapter 13 - Urban/Rural Development (2026 county census)
  2. Crittenden County Code of Ordinances, Chapter 13 - Planning/Zoning (2026 county census)
  3. Crittenden County Judge's Office (crittendencountyar.org)
  4. West Memphis: West Memphis Zoning Ordinance (Crittenden County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  6. West Memphis: Code of Ordinances, Sec. 42-243, compliance with state health department; system on undersize lot prohibited (Crittenden County), quoted and re-checked
  7. 14 CAR § 21-303. Permit Procedure, quoted and re-checked
  8. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  9. 14 CAR § 21-303. Permit Procedure, quoted and re-checked
  10. Arkansas Residential Rules, quoted and re-checked
  11. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  14. 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
  15. Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition, quoted and re-checked
  16. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), 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. General Sanitation Rules, quoted and re-checked
  23. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  24. Arkansas Department of Health Onsite Wastewater Program (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  25. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  26. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  27. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data
  28. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Public Water Systems Rules, 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

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Crittenden County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleCrittenden CountySt. Francis CountyCross CountyPoinsett CountyLee CountyMississippi CountyCraighead County
Building permitRequiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningYesNoNot publishedNoNoNot publishedNo
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Crittenden County in Arkansas

57
County map
Crittenden County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Crittenden County scores

Seclusion42100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency48100% ev.
Admin Boringness48100% ev.
Durability55100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost82100% 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 →

$169kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$4,236Land / acre
53.9"Annual rain
7.6% of yrsSevere drought
18.6 / yr (+16.7)Mid-century 100°F days
16.9 daysMid-century dry spell
2.4" (+6.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.52×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,939Home insurance / yr
0.1% / yrInsurance growth
1.19%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
15,591People within 30 min
2,150,386People within 2 hr
68,188Radius comparison (15 mi)
76.9People / sq mi
1.8%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
14.7%Wooded land
61.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Crittenden 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.

Not yet researched: Town of Anthonyville · Clarkedale · Town of Crawfordsville · Earle · Town of Edmondson · Gilmore · Town of Horseshoe Lake · Town of Jennette · Town of Jericho · Marion · Town of Sunset · Turrell

Answers from the rulebook for Crittenden County

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

Crittenden County rules

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)

    Arkansas residential-contractor licensing requirements applicable in Crittenden County.

    • The exemption concerns licensing requirements and does not establish whether a separate local building permit is required.
    • A person constructing their own residence is exempt unless building more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • An owner of a single-family residence acting as their own home-improvement contractor on their own property is exempt.

    maximum residences constructed under first exemption: 1 residence per calendar year (Exemption does not apply when the person builds more than one residence during a calendar year.)

    “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;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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

    New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, or changes in structures throughout Arkansas, including rural and unincorporated areas of Crittenden County.

    • The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition, is the statewide foundation code.
    • A district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision may adopt more stringent provisions, but may only adopt and enforce provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code.
    • The design and construction of new structures within the scope of the building code must comply with Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II.
    • Where structures are designed and constructed under the residential code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume III applies, including exterior construction and design provisions, premises identification, fire-apparatus access, water supplies, and construction permits required by Section 105.6.
    • Appendices B, C, D, E, F, G, and K are adopted by the State of Arkansas; other appendices do not apply unless adopted by local ordinance.
    • The source states that the rules are effective January 1, 2023.
    “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
    3 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.”
    • 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

    Sites proposed for an Arkansas onsite wastewater surface-discharging system, including applicable sites in Crittenden County.

    • The requirement applies to sites considered for a surface-discharging system.
    • The 3-acre requirement is in addition to the setback requirements in Section 6.2.
    • The rule also states that variances may be requested for certain slope conditions, subject to Department discretion.

    minimum lot size: >= 3 acres (surface-discharging onsite wastewater systems)

    “9.7. Sites considered for a surface discharging system shall meet the following minimum requirements in addition to setback requirements outlined in Section 6.2 of this rule. 9.7.1 The lot size for a surface discharging system shall be 3 acres or greater.”
  • 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)

    Domestic sewage collection, treatment, and disposal systems in Arkansas, including Crittenden County.

    • Individual sewage systems are submitted to the Division of Environmental Health Protection or its authorized agent.
    • Systems must comply with the Department's sewage-disposal rules and cited Arkansas statutes.
    “The plans for individual sewage disposal or treatment systems must be submitted to the Division of Environmental Health Protection of the Department of Health or its authorized agent.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems serving premises in Crittenden 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, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Crittenden County under Arkansas statewide onsite-wastewater rules.

    • A completed permit application and detailed plans must be submitted to and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before construction of a building or residence.
    • A valid Permit for Construction is required before construction, alteration, repair, or extension of an onsite wastewater system.
    • A Permit for Operation is required before operation, after inspection and approval.
    • If public sewer is available and can be connected without crossing another person's property, premises within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building must connect to sanitary sewer and onsite wastewater systems may not be constructed, maintained, or used there.
    • Emergency repairs may begin without prior notification or prior issuance of a permit only if the required permit is obtained within 10 working days.
    • For a city or county with a designated Authorized Agent, applications are made to that Authorized Agent; if no Authorized Agent has been designated, applications are made to the Department.
    • Construction must begin within one year after permit issuance or the permit must be revalidated by the original submitting Designated Representative or the Department's Authorized Agent.

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

    “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained in accordance with this part prior to the construction, installation, or modification of the onsite wastewater system.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Crittenden County.
      “Part I of the permit is the permit for construction.”
    • Required — Domestic sewage collection, treatment, and disposal facilities, including individual septic systems, in Crittenden County.
      “Detailed plans and specifications for the collection of, treatment of, and/or disposal facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of sewage and exclusive of industrial or manufacturing wastes, shall be submitted to and approved by the department prior to any construction.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas.
      “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.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation inspection and approval of onsite wastewater systems in Crittenden County.
      “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”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Prohibited — Privies and onsite wastewater systems on premises where a sanitary sewer is available within the rule's distance and access conditions.
      “No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
    • Limited — Off-grid domestic sanitation in Crittenden County.
      “All sewage must be deposited in sanitary sewers, sewage treatment facilities, septic tank systems, or other systems or devices adequate to meet the needs of the people being served. [...] The discharge of either treated or untreated sewage into road ditches or rights-of-way is prohibited.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New well locations for public water systems in Crittenden County.
      “The location of each proposed well must be approved in writing by the ADH prior to commencing construction.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Premises using onsite wastewater systems where a sanitary sewer is available within the rule's distance and access conditions.

    • Connection is required when the sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building and is available to the premises.
    • Connection must be possible without crossing another person's property.
    • No privy or onsite wastewater system may be constructed, maintained, or used in that circumstance.

    distance from building sewer exit: <= 300 feet (Only when the sewer is available and connection can be made without crossing another person's property.)

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Homes and businesses in Crittenden County where the building sewer exit is within 300 feet of access to a public sewer on the owner's property or an adjacent street or alley.
      “Connection to a public sewer system is required of all homes and businesses when the point where the sewer exits the building is located within three hundred feet (300’) of access to the public sewer located on the owner’s property or an adjacent street or alley (Arkansas Code § 14-235-304).”
    • 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 proposing to use standard onsite wastewater systems in Crittenden County.

    • Subdivision plans must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval when standard onsite wastewater systems will serve all or part of the lots or tracts.
    • Submission is made to the local health unit and must include soil-pit, percolation-test, topography, and other required information.
    • The plan-review fee is at least $100 for one lot, $25 for each following lot, and no more than $1,500.

    plan review fee for one lot: >= 100 USD · plan review fee per following lot: per 25 USD · maximum plan review fee: <= 1500 USD

    “shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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.”
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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 Crittenden County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land, water, and improvements within the zoning jurisdiction of the City of West Memphis, Arkansas, which is within Crittenden County.

    • The ordinance applies within the City's zoning jurisdiction, whose boundaries are indicated on the official zoning map.
    • The City states that its updated zoning code was authorized in fall 2020 and fully revised to reflect Grow West Memphis 2040.
    • The regulations become effective upon adoption by the West Memphis City Council; the official page does not provide an adoption date.
    • All use and development of land and structures must comply with other applicable city, state, and federal regulations.
    “The provisions of this Ordinance shall apply to all land, water, and improvements within the zoning jurisdiction of the City of West Memphis, Arkansas the boundaries of which are as indicated on the official zoning map.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Planning and zoning administration within the City of Marion, Crittenden County, Arkansas.
      “Planning-Community Development [...] Planning & Zoning”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Current publication of Crittenden County zoning districts, including any NUDZ, UDZ, or GI districts.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size rules in Crittenden County.
  • Setbacks — Building setbacks in Crittenden County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage rules in Crittenden County.
  • Building height — Building-height rules in Crittenden County.
4 more unanswered
  • Camping on your land
  • Manufactured homes
  • 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 Crittenden County, Arkansas

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

Crittenden County scores 57/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: sparse surroundings — about 15,591 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Crittenden County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health, 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 Crittenden County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Crittenden 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 Crittenden County, Arkansas?

Land in Crittenden County runs about $4,236 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Crittenden County?

Crittenden County gets about 53.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 7.6% of years.

How remote is Crittenden County?

A representative private-land location has about 15,591 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,150,386 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 Crittenden compares in Arkansas

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