Drew County, AR: No Building Permit, No Zoning

Unincorporated Drew County, Arkansas appears not to require a general county building permit, although a floodplain development permit is required in mapped flood-hazard areas¹. Statewide Arkansas building-code minimums still apply². Monticello issues its own building permits and applies city zoning, while septic permits everywhere in Drew County go through the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent³⁴⁵.

At a glance

Building permit: No general county building permit appears required in unincorporated areas; floodplain development permits still apply in mapped hazard areas; Monticello requires city permits¹³
Monticello permit fees: New residential: $15 plus $0.15 per square foot under roof and $35 per inspection⁶
Building code: Arkansas fire, building and residential code minimums apply statewide²
Zoning: County zoning is unconfirmed for unincorporated land; Monticello has city zoning⁷⁸
Septic permit: Required through the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent, with a narrow large-lot exemption⁹⁵
Wells: Public and semi-public wells need written Department of Health approval before construction; the same rule is not stated for private domestic wells¹⁰
Tiny house on wheels: Treated as a mobile home or RV under state health rules for qualifying parks; single-parcel use is unconfirmed¹¹
Owner-builder: State contractor-licensing exemption for an owner building the owner's own residence, limited to one residence per year¹²

Who to call

Health department

Drew County Local Health Unit (Arkansas Department of Health)

Onsite wastewater (septic) permit applications and inspections for Drew County, as the Arkansas Department of Health's local unit

(870) 367-6234

940 Scogin Dr, Monticello, AR 71655

Also useful

Drew County government

General Drew County government contact; no separate county building, zoning or floodplain department is listed

870-460-6200

210 South Main Street, Monticello, AR 71655

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 16, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

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

Unincorporated Drew County appears not to require a general county building permit, but construction in a mapped Special Flood Hazard Area requires a floodplain development permit¹. The permit answer does not erase the code: the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including its building and residential volumes, applies statewide²¹³. Inside Monticello, a city building permit is required and the City Inspector must approve the site before construction begins³¹⁴. Monticello's building-permit ordinance also reaches one mile beyond the city limits, so a parcel near the boundary needs a city-jurisdiction check¹⁵. An owner building the owner's own residence may qualify for Arkansas's contractor-licensing exemption, which does not waive building codes or any required building, septic, zoning or floodplain approval¹².

Who issues building permits in Drew County, and what do they cost?

Drew County does not list a separate county building or zoning department, so call Drew County government at 870-460-6200 to confirm that a rural parcel is unincorporated and whether floodplain review applies¹¹⁶. The county's rules apply to unincorporated land; inside Monticello, the city handles building permits and inspections³. Monticello charges $15 plus $0.15 per square foot under roof and $35 per inspection for new residential construction⁶. Contractors must submit their license and keep a current $10,000 surety bond on file with the city to get a permit¹⁷. A building project outside the city limits that connects to city water requires a signed pre-annexation agreement¹⁷. Septic does not move to the city: onsite wastewater applications throughout Drew County go to the Arkansas Department of Health or a Department-authorized agent, and the Drew County Local Health Unit at 940 Scogin Dr in Monticello can be reached at (870) 367-6234¹⁸¹⁹.

Does Drew County have zoning?

We could not confirm an adopted zoning ordinance for unincorporated Drew County; ask county government about zoning approval, setbacks, minimum dwelling size, lot coverage and building height for the parcel¹⁶. Monticello is different: the city publishes agricultural, business, industrial, mixed-use and residential zoning districts, including a single-family-mobile-home district⁸. Monticello's Planning Commission also administers local planning regulations²⁰. City zoning does not set rules for unincorporated land. Inside Arkansas municipalities, including those in Drew County, state law (Act 313) bars a city from prohibiting at least one accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot with a single-family home, but it is a municipal rule and creates no countywide rule for unincorporated land²¹. A nonresidential farm building has a limited state exemption from the cited electrical licensing and electrical-code provisions, which does not waive septic, zoning, floodplain or other requirements²².

How do septic permits and wells work in Drew County?

A septic system in Drew County generally needs a Permit for Construction before installation and a Permit for Operation after inspection and approval⁹. Applications go to the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent, and the Drew County Local Health Unit is the local contact⁵¹⁹. A single residence on ten or more acres may avoid the permit only when every part of the sewage system is more than 200 feet from every property line; the system still must meet state requirements⁹. Lots using qualifying drip-dispersal design to set subdivision lot size must be at least 0.5 acre²³. Only 5.2% of Drew County soils rate as not limited for a conventional drain field, so make a site evaluation a purchase contingency and expect a possible engineered system²⁴. If a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet of the building's sewer exit and reachable without crossing another person's property, the premises must connect and may not use a septic system or privy²⁵. For water, a public or semi-public well needs written Department of Health approval before construction; the cited rule does not state that requirement for an ordinary private domestic well, so ask the Local Health Unit¹⁰¹⁹.

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

We could not confirm a Drew County rule that allows or prohibits living in one RV or tiny home on private unincorporated land; ask county government about land use and the Local Health Unit about wastewater before relying on that plan¹⁶¹⁹. For Arkansas health rules governing qualifying parks, a tiny house on wheels is treated as a mobile home if it is plumbed and inspected under the Arkansas Plumbing Code, and as an RV if it is not¹¹. Parcels with three or more paid-service spaces for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes fall under state health rules for parks, but those rules do not answer the single-parcel occupancy question²⁶²⁷. Inside Monticello, city zoning and building-permit requirements add another layer⁴³.

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

Call Drew County government to confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated, within Monticello or its planning area, and in a mapped flood-hazard area¹⁶¹⁵.
For land under Monticello jurisdiction, identify the city zoning district and obtain the city building permit before construction⁸¹⁷.
Apply to the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent for septic construction approval; start with the Drew County Local Health Unit¹⁸¹⁹.
Design the project to the statewide Arkansas building-code minimums even where no local building inspection is required¹³.
Obtain a floodplain development permit when the site lies in a mapped Special Flood Hazard Area¹.
Obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation driveway permit before work within a state-highway right-of-way²⁸.

What should you check before buying land in Drew County?

Make septic feasibility the first contingency because only 5.2% of Drew County soils rate as not limited for a conventional drain field²⁴. Confirm whether public sewer is available, because the state requires connection when the line meets the 300-foot access test²⁵. Ask Drew County government whether the parcel is unincorporated and in a mapped flood-hazard area, and ask Monticello whether a near-city parcel falls within its one-mile planning area¹¹⁵¹⁶. Check legal road access before closing; a driveway onto an Arkansas state highway requires a state driveway permit²⁸. Drew County's effective property-tax rate is 0.4%, and the median annual property-tax bill is $572²⁹³⁰.

Watch-outs

No verified county ordinance answers minimum dwelling size, setbacks, lot coverage or building height for unincorporated Drew County; ask county government before treating a parcel as unrestricted¹⁶.
Monticello's building-permit system extends one mile beyond the city limits, so being outside the city limits does not by itself settle building-permit jurisdiction¹⁵.
A tiny house on wheels receives a health classification under park rules, but that classification does not create permission to occupy one on a single private parcel¹¹.

Sources

Written October 16, 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.

Compared with neighboring counties

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

Rule	Drew County	Lincoln County	Desha County	Bradley County	Cleveland County	Ashley County	Chicot County
Building permit	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required
County zoning	No	Not published	Not published	No	No	No	No
Septic permits	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	ADH

How Drew County scores

Seclusion78100% ev.

Self-Sufficiency66100% ev.

Admin Boringness85100% ev.

Durability64100% ev.

Property Autonomy47100% ev.

Carry Cost84100% 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 →

$158kTypical home

0.4%Property tax

$3,711Land / acre

54.9"Annual rain

11.7% of yrsSevere drought

22.7 / yr (+19.3)Mid-century 100°F days

18 daysMid-century dry spell

2.56" (+4.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain

1.52×Wildfire change factor

100%Forward climate coverage

$1,644Home insurance / yr

1% / yrInsurance growth

0.55%Nonrenewal rate

county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis

11,434People within 30 min

829,060People within 2 hr

19,325Radius comparison (15 mi)

20.4People / sq mi

0.4%Federal land

99.7%Land at 15% slope or less

5.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)

27,322 acWorkable land screen

74.7%Wooded land

43.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac

63.4°FAvg temp

Answers from the rulebook for Drew County

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

Drew County rules

County-wide zoningAbsent
No county planning or zoning department is listed for Drew County; zoning applies only within incorporated municipalities such as Monticello.
Arkansas.gov - Drew County ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Arkansas rules that apply here

Building permitLimited
Construction subject to the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.
- The source does not impose a single statewide building-permit requirement for all private residential and commercial construction.
- Local governments may establish prior plan approval, building-permit requirements, and construction inspections.
- Counties, cities, or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code for new construction, additions, and renovations.
- The cited document is the 2014 Arkansas Energy Code; current Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applicability should be confirmed separately.
“A local government may exercise other administrative and enforcement procedures that it deems necessary to affect the purposes of this Code, including, but not limited to, prior plan approval, building permit requirements, and inspections during the course of construction.”
2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
  Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (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.
- A person constructing the person’s own residence is exempt unless the person builds more than one residence during a calendar year.
- An owner of a single-family residence may act as the owner’s own home-improvement contractor on the owner’s own property.
- The exemption concerns contractor licensing and does not by itself eliminate applicable building-code, permit, inspection, zoning, or other requirements.
maximum own residences constructed per calendar year before the stated exemption no longer applies: <= 1 residence (The statute states the exemption does not apply if the person builds more than one residence during a calendar year.)
“construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year;”
Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules and Statutes ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Conditional — An owner acting as the contractor constructing the owner’s residence, or an owner acting as the owner’s own home-improvement contractor on the owner’s property, in Drew County and statewide Arkansas.
  “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;”
  Home Improvement New Application ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
Building-code requirements in Drew County as part of the statewide Arkansas Fire Prevention Code framework.
- The source states that the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.
- The code consists of Volume I Fire Code, Volume II Building Code, and Volume III Residential Code, each containing Arkansas amendments.
- The cited state document describes the 2021 code rulemaking and identifies January 1, 2023 as the proposed effective date in the rulemaking materials; no effective date is assigned here because the opened source does not state a final effective date.
- Local authorities may adopt more stringent individual provisions only after approval from the State Fire Marshal’s Office, according to the source’s rulemaking response.
code coverage: Volumes I, II, and III (Arkansas amendments apply)
“The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
Summary Agenda - May 18, 2022: 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Partial — Licensed healthcare facilities in Arkansas, including facilities located in Drew County.
  “Requirements found only in the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, requirements not addressed by NFPA 101, may be provided at the option of the facility.”
  20 CAR § 43-142. Physical facilities ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
- 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.”
  2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- 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.”
  22 CAR § 111-407. Building codes adopted ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
- 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.”
  22 CAR § 111-407. Building codes adopted ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
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.”
2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Arkansas building-code compliance in Drew County and other Arkansas areas, including rural and unincorporated areas.
  “Arkansas Building Codes are mandatory statewide minimums. They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  Home Improvement New Application ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
- Limited — Construction subject to Arkansas Building Code compliance and any applicable inspection regime.
  “areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
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.”
6 CAR § 31-425. Charter school facilities ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
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.”
  DBA Project Closeout Guide ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- 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.”
  2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Subdivision lots in Drew County using drip-dispersal design to determine minimum lot size for onsite wastewater systems.
- The rule permits drip-dispersal design to be used for determining minimum lot size for subdivisions only when the stated bedrock-depth, contour-flagging, and legal-description criteria are met.
minimum lot size for qualifying subdivision lots using drip-dispersal design: >= 0.5 acres (Applies only when the listed Section 5.5.4 criteria are met.)
“Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be 0.5 acres or larger.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
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.”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Parcels in Arkansas, including Drew County, with three or more spaces for recreational vehicles where placement or maintenance services are 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.”
  20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
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”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Arkansas parcels, including Drew County, with three or more spaces for tiny houses on wheels where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee.
  ““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;”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
- Limited — Tiny houses on wheels regulated under Arkansas Department of Health rules for mobile-home and recreational-vehicle parks; this does not establish a single-parcel Drew County land-use permission.
  ““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;”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
- 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;”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Manufactured homesLimited
Arkansas parcels, including Drew County, with three or more spaces for mobile homes where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee.
- The parcel is considered a mobile home park and must comply with 20 CAR pt. 138.
- Department of Health approval is required before construction, alteration, repair, or extension of the park.
- Plans must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features.
- Mobile homes must generally be separated by 15 feet from each other and other buildings or structures; end-to-end placement may use 10 feet where opposing rear walls are staggered.
spaces: >= 3 spaces · mobile-home separation: 15 feet (10 feet for end-to-end mobile homes where opposing rear walls are staggered.)
“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.”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
Accessory dwellingsAllowed
Accessory dwelling units on lots or parcels containing a single-family dwelling within Arkansas municipalities, including municipalities in Drew County.
- Act 313 addresses municipal regulation; it does not establish a countywide unincorporated-area rule.
- The accessory dwelling unit may be attached, detached, or internal.
- A detached or attached accessory dwelling unit may not exceed 75 percent of the single-family dwelling’s gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less.
- Municipalities may regulate short-term rentals.
- A municipality may require a municipal water and sewer will-serve letter, or Department of Health approval where municipal water or sewer is unavailable.
- A policy, regulation, or ordinance in effect on or after January 1, 2026 that conflicts with the section is invalid to the extent of the conflict.
maximum detached or attached ADU size: 75% of primary dwelling gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less
“Except as provided in this section, a municipality shall not adopt a policy, regulation, or ordinance that restricts, prohibits, or otherwise regulates the use of at least one (1) accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel that contains a single-family dwelling.”
Act 313: Accessory dwelling units ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
Who permits septicState (with conditions)
Arkansas Department of Health administration of onsite wastewater permits applicable in Drew County, directly or through an Authorized Agent.
- An Authorized Agent may act for the Department where one has been designated for the city or county.
- If no Authorized Agent has been designated for the city or county, applications must be made to the Department.
- The rules require approval by the Department or its Authorized Agent before construction and require inspection and approval before operation.
“the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Mixed (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater permitting for property in Drew County.
  “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department. In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
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.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems serving residences and other covered premises in Drew County.
  “Permits for construction and operation [...] shall be obtained [...] prior to the construction”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
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.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
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”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta on premises in Drew 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.”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
Well permitLimited
Public and semi-public water wells in Drew County.
- Written approval from the Arkansas Department of Health is required before construction of a public or semi-public well.
- The well must also comply with the applicable Arkansas Department of Health rules.
- The cited rule does not state the same written-approval requirement for ordinary private domestic wells.
“shall have written approval from the ADH prior to the start of construction”
Arkansas Water Well Construction Commission Rules (updated 2020) ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Wells serving public and semi-public water systems in Arkansas.
  “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.”
  17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)
Homes and premises where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits the building and available without crossing another person's property.
- When the stated distance and availability conditions are met, connection to the sanitary sewer is required.
- Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises under that condition.
sewer distance from building sewer-exit point: <= 300 feet (sewer must be available without crossing another person's property)
“All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within three hundred feet (300’) from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.”
codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
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.”
Farm Utility Exemption Notice and Agricultural, Aquaculture and Horticulture Utility Exemption Application ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Available — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Drew County, to the extent the activity is governed by the cited Arkansas electrical licensing and Electrical Code Authority Act provisions.
  “(a) The licensing requirements of Arkansas Code § 17-28-101 et seq. shall not apply to the following: [...] (4) The construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
- 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;”
  17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision plats that are boundary surveys creating parcels in Arkansas.
- The plat must be filed with the State Surveyor's office after any recording requirements imposed by city or county government.
- Filing is not required, but may be submitted, for survey plats of subdivided property located in a municipality where the property has previously been surveyed and a plat filed.
plat distribution deadline: 30 days after completion
“Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office [...] Filing is not required [...] for survey plats [...] located in a municipality [...]”
codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Driveway accessRequired
All access driveways on Arkansas state highways, including qualifying locations in Drew County.
- The applicant must satisfy applicable city and/or county requirements in incorporated cities or counties.
- No work may begin on state highway right-of-way until the engineer issues the permit.
- Commercial driveway permits require a minimum $1,000 deposit or bond per driveway; governmental-entity permits may have the deposit or bond waived.
- Commercial driveway permits expire one year from issuance, with additional revocation, forfeiture, reapplication, and extension rules stated in the regulation.
commercial driveway deposit or bond: >= 1000 USD per driveway (may be waived for governmental entities)
“A permit shall be obtained from the Arkansas Department of Transportation for all access driveways on state highways.”
codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Construction, reconstruction, modification, or relocation of access driveways on Arkansas State Highway right-of-way, including residential, commercial, and temporary access driveways.
  “A permit shall be obtained from the Department for all access driveways on State Highways.”
  Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
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.”
22 CAR § 111-705. Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Development by an Arkansas state department within a hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division-designated flood hazard area.
  “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.”
  22 CAR § 111-705. Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
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%”
22 CAR § 111-212. Design services fee schedule ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
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”
22 CAR § 111-705. Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
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.”
22 CAR § 50-108. Camping rules, fee collection, registration, and reservations ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
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.”
House Bill 2452 — County planning boards and zoning boards of adjustment ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
  arkleg.state.ar.us ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026

Inside cities and towns in Drew County

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

Building permitRequired
Building and utilities construction within the City of Monticello, Arkansas.
- The page describes the City of Monticello permit process and city inspections.
- After the Building Permit Application is received, the City Inspector conducts a site inspection; construction can begin once the site is approved.
- All contractors must submit their license and have a current $10,000.00 surety bond on file to obtain a permit.
- New residential construction fees are $15 plus $0.15 per square foot under roof and $35 per listed inspection.
new residential construction permit fee: 15 USD · new residential construction fee: 0.15 USD per square foot under roof · inspection fee: 35 USD per inspection (foundation, framing, masonry, final)
“The building & utilities permit process is initiated by submitting a Building Permit Application (Including building plans with the application, which can expedite the process). Building permit fees are based on the estimated construction cost of the buildings; see the fee schedule below. After the Building Permit Application is received, the City Inspector will conduct a site inspection. Once the site is approved by the City Inspector, construction can begin.”
Licenses and Permits | City of Monticello, AR ↗Re-checked Oct 7, 2026
Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
New development and covered construction within the City of Monticello and its stated one-mile planning area.
- A building permit must be obtained before new development within the corporate limits or planning area.
- The ordinance states that all building projects are subject to the Arkansas Fire and Building Code and, by reference, the Southern Standard Building Code.
- The ordinance covers single-family residences, multifamily residences, commercial or manufacturing buildings, demolition, swimming pools, and substantial structural improvements; ordinary minor repairs may be made without a permit if they do not violate technical trade codes.
- Permit fees, inspection fees, occupancy permits, plan-submission requirements, and a 90-day permit-validity period are specified in the ordinance.
- This claim is municipality-specific and does not establish adoption by Drew County for unincorporated areas.
planning-area extent: one mile beyond the city limits · new residential building permit fee: 15 USD (plus $0.15 per square foot under roof and $35 per inspection) · permit validity: 90 days (void if construction has not begun unless renewed within that period)
“821 – Adopting the 2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Containing Fire Prevention, Building and Residential Codes”
Ordinance No. 818 — Establishing a Building Permit System for the City of Monticello ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
Planning and development regulation within the City of Monticello, Arkansas.
- The official page identifies planning regulations and recommended implementing ordinances, but does not publish the operative zoning text on the page.
- Applicability is limited to the City of Monticello and does not establish countywide regulation or regulation by other municipalities in Drew County.
“The duties of the Commission are to prepare a plan for the municipality, to receive and make recommendations on public and private proposals for development, to prepare and administer planning regulations, to prepare and transmit to the legislative body recommended ordinances implementing plans, and to advise and counsel the city government and other public bodies..”
Planning Commission | City of Monticello, AR ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Present (with conditions) — Land within the City of Monticello, Drew County, Arkansas, subject to the city's zoning districts and regulations.
  “Residential/Single-Family Zoning District Regulations”
  Zoning Map | City of Monticello ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
- Present (with conditions) — Land within the City of Monticello, Drew County, Arkansas.
  “Agricultural Zoning District Regulations Business / Central Zoning District Regulations Business / Highway Zoning District Regulations Industrial Zoning District Regulations Light Industrial Limited Use Zoning District Regulations Mixed-Use/Business Residential Zoning District Regulations Mixed-Use/Suburban Residential Zoning District Regulations Residential/Single-Family Zoning District Regulations Residential/Multi-Family Zoning District Regulations Residential/Single-Family-Mobile-Home Zoning District Regulations”
  Zoning Map ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
- Present — Zoning within the City of Monticello, Drew County, Arkansas.
  “Agricultural Zoning District Regulations Business / Central Zoning District Regulations Business / Highway Zoning District Regulations Industrial Zoning District Regulations”
  Zoning Map ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Building, utility, electrical, HVAC, demolition, placement, occupancy, roofing, mobile-vendor, and road-bore permits administered by the City of Monticello within the city limits.
- Building permit fees are based on estimated construction cost.
- New residential construction has a $15 permit fee, $0.15 per square foot under roof, and $35 per listed inspection.
- Residential remodel has a $15 permit fee, $2.00 per $1,000 of construction cost, and $35 per inspection.
- Commercial construction has a $50 permit fee, $2.00 per $1,000 up to $2,000,000, then $1.00 per $1,000 for the remainder, a state fee of $0.50 per $1,000 up to $2,000,000 capped at $1,000, and $35 per inspection.
- The page separately lists fees for other permit categories.
new residential construction permit fee: 15 USD · new residential construction fee: per 0.15 USD per square foot under roof · residential inspection fee: per 35 USD per inspection (foundation, framing, masonry, final) · commercial construction permit fee: 50 USD · road bore permit fee: per 500 USD per project
“New Residential Construction: $15 Permit Fee $0.15 per square foot under roof $35 per inspection (foundation, framing, masonry, final)”
Licenses and Permits | City of Monticello, AR ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
City of Monticello building and utilities permit process within the city limits.
- Submit a Building Permit Application; including building plans may expedite processing.
- The City Inspector conducts a site inspection after receipt of the application.
- Construction may begin after the site is approved by the City Inspector.
- All contractors must submit their license and have a current $10,000 surety bond for the City of Monticello on file to obtain a permit.
- Electrical, gas, and plumbing inspections are required at various stages before the building can be occupied or used.
- For building projects outside the city limits that connect to city water, a pre-annexation agreement must be signed.
contractor surety bond: 10000 USD (current bond for the City of Monticello)
“The building & utilities permit process is initiated by submitting a Building Permit Application (Including building plans with the application, which can expedite the process). Building permit fees are based on the estimated construction cost of the buildings; see the fee schedule below. After the Building Permit Application is received, the City Inspector will conduct a site inspection. Once the site is approved by the City Inspector, construction can begin.”
Licenses and Permits | City of Monticello, AR ↗Re-checked Sep 10, 2026

Still unanswered

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

Zoning districts — Zoning districts across Drew County, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.
Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size for residences in unincorporated Drew County.
Setbacks — General building or land-development setbacks in unincorporated Drew County.
Lot coverage — Lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Drew County.
Building height — Building-height limits in unincorporated Drew County.

2 more unanswered

Camping on your land
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 Drew County, Arkansas

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

Drew County scores 84/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

Drew County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health - Onsite Wastewater Program (local county health unit Environmental 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 Drew County?

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

Land in Drew County runs about $3,711 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Drew County?

Drew County gets about 54.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 11.7% of years.

How remote is Drew County?

A representative private-land location has about 11,434 people within a 30-minute drive and 829,060 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.

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Drew County, Arkansas

At a glance

Who to call

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

Who issues building permits in Drew County, and what do they cost?

Does Drew County have zoning?

How do septic permits and wells work in Drew County?

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

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

What should you check before buying land in Drew County?

Watch-outs

Sources

Compared with neighboring counties

Drew County in Arkansas

How Drew County scores

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Parcel due diligence

Cities and towns in Drew County

Answers from the rulebook for Drew County

Drew County rules

Arkansas rules that apply here

Inside cities and towns in Drew County

Still unanswered

Living off-grid in Drew County, Arkansas

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

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

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

How much does land cost in Drew County, Arkansas?

What is the water situation in Drew County?

How remote is Drew County?

How Drew compares in Arkansas