Bolthole Index

Desha County, Arkansas

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

77Index Score / 100
#20 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Desha County, Arkansas appears not to require a county building permit, but we could not confirm that in an explicit county statement, so check with the County Judge's office before building.12 Countywide zoning could not be confirmed, and cities may set their own rules.3 Septic permits for every address in the county, city or not, come from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent.4

At a glance

Building permit
Appears not to be required in unincorporated areas, but confirm with the County Judge's office1
Building code
Arkansas Fire Prevention Code standards apply statewide even where no local permit is required56
Zoning
Countywide zoning could not be confirmed; ask the County Judge's office about the parcel32
Septic
Apply through the Arkansas Department of Health or a designated local authorized agent74
Owner-builder
State contractor licensing allows an owner to build the owner's own residence, subject to the annual limit8
RV or tiny home
Private-parcel occupancy could not be confirmed; state health rules separately regulate qualifying paid parks910
Private well
A general domestic-well permit rule could not be confirmed; public and semi-public wells need state approval11

Who to call

Also useful

Desha County Judge's Office

County administrative contact for questions about unincorporated-area permits, zoning, roads and floodplain administration that are not answered on a published county page

870-877-2426

Robert S. Moore Street, Arkansas City, AR 71630

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health - Desha County LHU/Dumas

Local health-unit contact; ask for the onsite environmental specialist for septic applications and records

(870) 382-2377

751 Hwy 65 South, Dumas, AR 71639

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health - Desha County LHU/McGehee

Local health-unit contact; ask for the onsite environmental specialist for septic applications and records

(870) 222-3910

200 East Ash, McGehee, AR 71654

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health - Onsite Wastewater Program

State onsite-wastewater guidance, applications and septic records through county health-unit environmental specialists

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 Desha County, Arkansas?

A residential building permit appears not to be required in unincorporated Desha County, but we could not confirm that answer in an explicit official county permit statement.1 Call the Desha County Judge's office at 870-877-2426 before construction to confirm whether your particular project needs county review, an inspection or a certificate of occupancy.2 The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide, and state guidance expressly recognizes that its requirements can apply in places where no permit or inspections are required.12613 In practical terms, the apparent absence of a county permit does not remove the duty to build to the applicable Arkansas code.5 An incorporated city may run its own permit program, so the answer for property inside city limits may differ from the answer for unincorporated Desha County; septic permits stay with the Arkansas Department of Health either way.14

Who handles building questions in Desha County, and how do you reach them?

No separate Desha County building, planning or permit office was confirmed, so begin with the Desha County Judge's office at Robert S. Moore Street, Arkansas City, AR 71630, or call 870-877-2426.2 Ask the office to identify the authority for building permits, inspections, floodplain development and county-road access for the exact parcel.2 For septic questions, the Arkansas Department of Health directs applicants to call the health unit in the county where the land lies and ask for the onsite environmental specialist.14 Desha County has health-unit contacts in Dumas at 751 Hwy 65 South, (870) 382-2377, and McGehee at 200 East Ash, (870) 222-3910.1516 These contacts are the clearest starting points because the county has not published a permit process or fee schedule that could be confirmed.2

Does Desha County have zoning?

Countywide zoning in unincorporated Desha County could not be confirmed from an official county ordinance or an explicit no-zoning statement.3 The same gap applies to county setbacks, minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, lot coverage and building-height limits, so do not treat the lack of a published ordinance as proof that no parcel restriction exists.3 Ask the Desha County Judge's office whether a county rule, floodplain condition, subdivision restriction or road requirement applies to the parcel before choosing a house site.2 Properties inside an incorporated municipality can be governed by that city's rules rather than the county's unincorporated-area practice.3 Private deed restrictions and easements also need a title review; the county zoning question alone does not resolve them. A subdivision that plans to use standard onsite wastewater systems must have its overall plan reviewed and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health, which is another reason to ask before dividing a tract.17 For a subdivision plat that creates Arkansas parcels, state rules require filing with the State Surveyor after any city or county recording requirements are satisfied.18

How do septic permits work in Desha County?

Onsite wastewater systems in Desha County are administered under Arkansas Department of Health rules through the Department or a designated authorized agent.74 Call a Desha County health unit and ask for the onsite environmental specialist to begin an application or retrieve an existing septic record.141516 The state requires a Permit for Construction before an onsite wastewater system is built, altered, repaired or extended, and a Permit for Operation after the system is inspected and approved.1920 The review fee for an individual permit application runs from $30 for a structure of 1,500 square feet or less up to $150 for one over 4,000 square feet.21 Arkansas health guidance says septic suitability has no fixed minimum lot size; the needed space depends on soil suitability, bedroom count and the setback from water wells.14 Only about 7% of Desha County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so a soil evaluation can materially affect the house site and system budget.22 A single residence on ten or more acres can be exempt from obtaining the permit when every part of the sewage system is more than 200 feet from every property line, including roads.19 If sanitary sewer is available within 300 feet under the state's stated access conditions, connection is required instead of an onsite system.23

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

Long-term RV living or tiny-home occupancy on a single private parcel in unincorporated Desha County could not be confirmed from an official county land-use rule.3 Ask the Desha County Judge's office about the parcel before buying or moving a unit onto the land, and ask the onsite environmental specialist how wastewater must be handled.214 Arkansas separately regulates a parcel as a mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes and placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee.9 Under those park rules, a tiny house on wheels is treated as a mobile home when plumbed and inspected under the Arkansas Plumbing Code, and as an RV when it is not.24 Those park provisions do not answer whether one RV or tiny home may be occupied on a private Desha County parcel.10

Building a home in Desha County: the steps, in order

  1. Confirm that the parcel is outside city limits, then call the Desha County Judge's office to ask about building permits, inspections, zoning, floodplain review and county-road access.2
  2. Call a Desha County health unit and ask for the onsite environmental specialist before fixing the house location.141516
  3. Get the soil and proposed drain-field area evaluated early because only about 7% of county soils lack severe conventional drain-field limitations.22
  4. Confirm whether public sewer must be used under the state's 300-foot connection rule.23
  5. Design the structure to the statewide Arkansas Fire Prevention Code even if the county confirms that no permit or inspection applies.56
  6. Obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation access permit before doing driveway work on state-highway right-of-way.25
  7. If acting as your own contractor, use the state owner-builder licensing exemption only within its limit of one own residence per calendar year; it covers contractor licensing only and does not waive zoning, building-code or septic permits.826

What to check before you buy land in Desha County

Start with wastewater and drainage: only about 7% of Desha County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, and annual precipitation is about 53.9 inches.2227 Ask the onsite environmental specialist whether the proposed house and replacement drain-field areas are workable before closing.14 Confirm floodplain status and the applicable local administrator with the Desha County Judge's office because a county-specific private-development permit rule could not be confirmed.2 Verify legal access, and remember that a driveway connecting to a state highway needs a state access permit before right-of-way work begins.25 A general permit rule for private domestic wells could not be confirmed, although public and semi-public wells require written Arkansas Department of Health approval before construction.11 Desha County's effective property-tax rate is about 0.6%, with a median annual property-tax bill of about $517.2829

Watch-outs

  • We could not confirm the apparent building-permit answer in an explicit official Desha County statement; ask the County Judge's office before starting work.12
  • County zoning, private-land RV occupancy, setbacks, minimum dwelling size and a private-development floodplain process could not be confirmed; ask the County Judge's office about the specific parcel.32
  • Conventional septic conditions are challenging because only about 7% of Desha County soils are rated without severe drain-field limitations.22

Sources

  1. Arkansas.gov – Desha County directory (2026 county census)
  2. Desha County Judge's Office (portal.arkansas.gov)
  3. (2026 county census)
  4. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  5. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  6. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  7. Arkansas Department of Health – Onsite Wastewater (2026 county census)
  8. Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules and Statutes (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  9. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. 17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code summary, quoted and re-checked
  13. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Arkansas Department of Health - Onsite Wastewater Program (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  15. Arkansas Department of Health - Desha County LHU/Dumas (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  16. Arkansas Department of Health - Desha County LHU/McGehee (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  17. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  18. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  19. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), Section 4, 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. 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
  23. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  24. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  25. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. Arkansas Residential Rules, quoted and re-checked
  27. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 5 of its 6 neighbors, Desha County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleDesha CountyDrew CountyLincoln CountyArkansas CountyChicot CountyPhillips CountyJefferson County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimited
County zoningNot publishedNoNot publishedNoNoNoNot published
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADHAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Desha County in Arkansas

77
County map
Desha County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Desha County scores

Seclusion83100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency55100% ev.
Admin Boringness7177% ev.
Durability60100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost84100% ev.

Evidence strength: 96%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$93kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$4,113Land / acre
53.9"Annual rain
10.3% of yrsSevere drought
22.4 / yr (+19.5)Mid-century 100°F days
18.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.65" (+4.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.56×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,731Home insurance / yr
-3.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.46%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
268,035People within 2 hr
9,270Radius comparison (15 mi)
14.1People / sq mi
8.1%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
29,074 acWorkable land screen
33.4%Wooded land
51 tonsBiomass / forest ac
63.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Desha 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.

Arkansas City · Dumas · McGehee · Mitchellville · Town of Reed · Watson

Answers from the rulebook for Desha County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and 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)

    Residential building-contractor licensing exemptions applicable in Arkansas, including Desha County.

    • A person constructing his or her own residence is exempt unless building more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • An owner of a single-family residence acting as his or her own home-improvement contractor on his or her own property is exempt.
    • The provision concerns state contractor licensing requirements and does not establish exemption from zoning, building-code, septic, or other permits.

    maximum residences constructed by an owner-builder under the first exemption: <= 1 residence per calendar year (The exemption does not apply if the person builds more than one residence during any calendar year.)

    “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;”
    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 adoptedPartial

    State projects in Arkansas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Onsite wastewater systems in Desha County.

    • The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent administers the permitting and approval process.
    • For cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent is an agent of the Department; where none has been designated, applications are made to the Department.
    “applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed — Onsite wastewater systems in Desha County, administered under Arkansas Department of Health rules through the Department or its Authorized Agent.
      “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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Desha 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. [...] 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Desha County.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent. [...] Part II of the Permit Application is the installation inspection. An installation inspection may be made during the construction of any onsite wastewater system. [...] After approval of the inspection, the Authorized Agent will approve and issue a Permit for Operation. The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.”
    • Required — Operation of onsite wastewater systems in Desha County, under Arkansas statewide requirements.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

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

    • Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department may be used.
    • The devices must be evaluated by an ANSI-approved laboratory under NSF Standard 41.
    • Wastewater other than urine and feces must be renovated or disposed of under Sections 8 or 9 of the rule.
    • Stabilized compost must be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary landfill.
    • The system remains subject to applicable onsite wastewater permitting and approval requirements.
    “Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Privies and onsite wastewater systems used instead of sanitary sewer in Desha County.
      “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property. No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises. [...] A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications [...] 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.”
    • Limited — Off-grid sanitation and onsite wastewater disposal in Desha County.
      “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property. No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
  • Well permitLimited

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

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

    Premises in Desha County served by or eligible for a sanitary sewer.

    • Connection is required when the sewer is within 300 feet from where it exits the building and available to the premises.
    • The connection must be possible without crossing another person’s property.
    • When those conditions apply, privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.

    sewer distance: <= 300 feet (sewer must be available and connection must not require crossing another person's property)

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Onsite wastewater systems and sanitary-sewer connections for property in Desha County.
      “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property. No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
    • 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)

    Subdivision plans in Desha County that propose standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of the lots or tracts.

    • Plans must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval.
    • Unsuitable lots or parcels must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
    • Green or community space must be identified and is not assigned a lot number or counted in subdivision approval.
    • Submission to the local health unit must include soil-pit data, percolation-test data when applicable, test locations, topography, and other information required for review.
    • The plan-review fee is at least $100 for one lot, $25 for each additional lot, and no more than $1,500.

    minimum plan review fee: >= 100 USD (for one lot) · additional-lot plan review fee: per 25 USD (each following lot) · maximum plan review fee: <= 1500 USD

    “All subdivision plans, which are proposed to utilize standard onsite wastewater systems as a method of wastewater treatment for all or part of the lots or tracts in said subdivision, shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall plan for the utilization of onsite wastewater systems.”
    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)

    Arkansas Department of Health review fees for individual onsite wastewater permit applications applicable in Desha County.

    • The fee is payable to the Department before Part 1 of the permit application is issued.
    • The fee is nonrefundable if the applicant does not proceed.
    • Construction must begin within one year of issuance or the permit must be revalidated.
    • Residential auxiliary areas such as garages, carports, and porches are excluded when calculating square footage.

    fee for structure 1,500 square feet or less: 30 USD · fee for structure over 1,500 through 2,000 square feet: 45 USD · fee for structure over 2,000 through 3,000 square feet: 90 USD · fee for structure over 3,000 through 4,000 square feet: 120 USD · fee for structure over 4,000 square feet: 150 USD · fee for alteration, repair, or extension of an individual sewage disposal system: 30 USD

    “A fee shall be levied for the review of Individual Onsite Wastewater Permit Applications as follows:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas Department of Health onsite-wastewater permit reviews applicable in Desha County.
      “A fee shall be levied for the review of each permit. Permit fees shall be made payable to the Department. The review fee shall be paid before the issuance of Part 1 of the Permit Application. There shall be no refund of the fee or any part thereof due to failure to proceed under the Permit Application. Construction shall begin within one year of issuance or the permit shall be re-validated by the original submitting Designated Representative or the Department’s Authorized Agent.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Basic design-service fees for Arkansas state department projects governed by the Building Authority Division.
      “$50,001 to $75,000 | 9.25%”
  • 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.”

Still unanswered

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

  • County-wide zoning — Countywide zoning authority and ordinance coverage in Desha County.
  • Local zoning — Aggregate local zoning status across Desha County municipalities and unincorporated areas.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts or zoning maps for Desha County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Desha County.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements in Desha County.
7 more unanswered
  • Setbacks
  • Lot coverage
  • Building height
  • 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 Desha County, Arkansas

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

Desha County scores 77/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 9,270 people within 15 miles.

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

Desha County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health – Onsite Wastewater Program. 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 Desha County?

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

Land in Desha County runs about $4,113 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Desha County?

Desha County gets about 53.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 10.3% of years.

How remote is Desha County?

A typical private-land location has about 9,270 people within 15 miles and 1,713,934 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Desha compares in Arkansas

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