Bolthole Index

Faulkner County, Arkansas

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

69Index Score / 100
#57 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Faulkner County, Arkansas does not require a general county building permit, but statewide building codes still apply12. Conway issues city building permits and administers zoning; unincorporated zoning remains unconfirmed345. Septic construction and operation permits come from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent in rural areas and cities alike67. County floodplain review is separate: ask OEM/911 before clearing or construction outside Conway, Mayflower, Wooster, Vilonia and Greenbrier8.

At a glance

Building permit
No general county permit in unincorporated areas; statewide code standards still apply12
Floodplain permit
Required in regulated flood zones outside the five named cities; shaded Zone X and Zone B generally require one only for a critical facility9
Zoning
Not confirmed on the county's official site; call the County Judge's office before assuming a rule5
Septic
Construction approval, inspection and an operation permit through the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent6710
RV living
General occupancy rule unconfirmed; special flood hazard areas have separate RV limits511
Tiny home
Occupancy and minimum dwelling size unconfirmed; ask the County Judge’s office5
Owner-builder exemption
Residential contractor-license exemption for your own residence, limited to 1 per calendar year; other approvals still apply12
Wells
Private domestic well permit requirement unconfirmed; public and semi-public wells need state health approval13

Who to call

Floodplain permits

Faulkner County Office of Emergency Management (OEM/911)

Floodplain development permits for Faulkner County outside the city limits of Conway, Mayflower, Wooster, Vilonia and Greenbrier

501-450-4935

57 Acklin Gap Rd, Conway, AR 72032

Online permits →

Septic permits

Faulkner County Health Unit (Arkansas Department of Health)

Local contact point for the Arkansas Department of Health's onsite wastewater (septic) permitting in Faulkner County

(501) 450-4941

811 North Creek Dr, Conway, AR 72032

Roads & driveways

Faulkner County Road Department

County road maintenance status and the process to get a private road accepted into the county-maintained system

501-450-4930

65 Acklin Gap Rd, Conway, AR 72032

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 Faulkner County, Arkansas?

Unincorporated Faulkner County has no general county building-permit department and does not require a general county building permit for typical rural construction1. Arkansas building codes remain statewide minimums even where building permits or inspections are not required2. Inside Conway, the city issues building permits for new construction, remodels, additions and accessory buildings; septic approval stays with the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent36. Conway requires separate electrical, plumbing, gas and mechanical permits, and an applicable floodplain development permit must precede the building permit14. Conway construction must comply with its adopted building, electrical, plumbing, fuel-gas, mechanical, accessibility and energy codes15.

Who is the Faulkner County building department, and how do you reach them?

Faulkner County has no general building-permit department for unincorporated construction1. For county floodplain review outside Conway, Mayflower, Wooster, Vilonia and Greenbrier, call Faulkner County OEM/911 at 501-450-4935, 57 Acklin Gap Rd, Conway, AR 7203216. Complete the Floodplain Development Application and return it to OEM/91117. Conway residential inspections must be requested in advance18. Conway requires a certificate of occupancy before occupancy, after final inspections pass, fees are paid and applicable departments approve19. For county-maintained versus private-road questions, call the Road Department at 501-450-4930, 65 Acklin Gap Rd, Conway, AR 7203220.

Does Faulkner County have zoning?

We could not confirm countywide zoning or ordinary residential setbacks, minimum lot size and minimum dwelling size for unincorporated Faulkner County; ask the County Judge’s office before choosing a site plan5. The absence of a general county building permit does not establish permission for a particular land use15. Inside Conway, the city administers its own zoning code; septic approval remains with the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent46. Confirm the parcel’s city-limit and subdivision-review boundaries before relying on the unincorporated-county answer, because municipal subdivision authority may extend beyond city limits21.

How do septic permits work in Faulkner County?

Septic permits throughout Faulkner County are administered by the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent6. Start with the Faulkner County Health Unit at (501) 450-4941, 811 North Creek Dr, Conway, AR 7203222. Construction, alteration, repair and extension generally require a Permit for Construction before work; inspection, approval and a Permit for Operation are required before use7. The installer must notify the authorized agent or designated representative when installation is ready for inspection and submit required documentation to the local health unit within 5 days after installation10.

Individual septic review fees are $30 for structures up to 1,500 square feet, $45 above 1,500 through 2,000, $90 above 2,000 through 3,000, $120 above 3,000 through 4,000 and $150 above 4,000; repair, alteration or extension review costs $3023. The fee is nonrefundable if the project does not proceed, and construction must begin within a year or the permit needs revalidation23. Only 2.7% of Faulkner County soils are rated “not limited” for conventional drain fields: evaluate the site early, since a low rating does not mean septic is impossible24.

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

We could not confirm a general Faulkner County rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV living or tiny-home occupancy on unincorporated land; ask the County Judge’s office about the proposed use, setbacks and dwelling size5. An onsite wastewater system still needs construction approval, inspection and an operation permit before use7. Where qualifying sanitary sewer is available within 300 feet measured from where the sewer exits the building on the owner’s property, and connection does not cross another person’s property, connection is mandatory and privies or onsite systems cannot be used25.

In Special Flood Hazard Areas governed by Faulkner County’s flood code, the temporary RV option requires a fully licensed unit on wheels or a jacking system, only quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, no permanently attached additions, and immobility for no more than 180 consecutive days; otherwise the RV must meet the code’s manufactured-home provisions11.

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

  1. Confirm the parcel’s jurisdiction and ask the County Judge’s office about unincorporated zoning, setbacks and occupancy5.
  2. Ask OEM/911 which floodplain approvals apply before clearing, construction or site work; submit the county Floodplain Development Application where county review applies817.
  3. Determine whether sanitary sewer is available within 300 feet of the building’s sewer exit on the owner’s property without crossing another person’s property; qualifying premises must connect25.
  4. If septic is needed, obtain construction approval, arrange installation inspection and secure the operation permit before use710.
  5. Design to statewide building codes; in Conway obtain city building and trade permits, required inspections and a certificate of occupancy before moving in2141819.
  6. If acting as your own contractor, the residential-license exemption covers your own residence, limited to 1 per calendar year, and your own single-family home improvements; building-code, floodplain, septic and applicable zoning requirements still apply12.

What to check before you buy land in Faulkner County

Water: we could not confirm private domestic well permitting; ask the well contractor, who must obtain a Department of Health determination before construction if public or semi-public status is uncertain13. Flood: ask OEM/911 to reconcile the county page’s broad before-work requirement with the application’s mapped-zone conditions; Zone B or shaded Zone X requires a floodplain permit only for a critical facility, and regulatory floodways require a No-Rise Certificate816. Subdivision: unincorporated development requires a surveyed plat filed with the County Judge and Circuit Clerk and approved before road construction; plans using standard onsite systems also need Department of Health wastewater-plan review2126. Access: ask the Road Department whether the road is county-maintained or private20. Taxes: the effective property-tax rate is about 0.6%, with a median annual bill of about $1,2012728.

Watch-outs

  • Faulkner County's zoning status is unconfirmed on the county's own site, so do not assume any specific setback, lot-size or RV/tiny-home rule without calling the County Judge's office first5.
  • Faulkner County’s floodplain page and application describe different permit scopes; ask OEM/911 which approval is required before clearing, construction or site work816.
  • Only 2.7% of Faulkner County soils are rated “not limited” for conventional septic drain fields; a site evaluation is essential, and the rating does not mean septic is impossible24.

Sources

  1. Faulkner County, AR - Government (2026 county census)
  2. Home Improvement Application and Test Information, quoted and re-checked
  3. Conway: Residential Building Permit Guidelines (Faulkner County), quoted and re-checked
  4. Conway: Conway Zoning Code (Faulkner County), quoted and re-checked
  5. (2026 county census)
  6. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  7. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  8. Floodplain Management, quoted and re-checked
  9. Floodplain Management - Faulkner County GOV, quoted and re-checked
  10. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  11. Flood Damage Prevention Code, quoted and re-checked
  12. Residential Contractors Committee Rules, quoted and re-checked
  13. 17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Residential Building Permit Guidelines, quoted and re-checked
  15. Residential Building Permit Guidelines, quoted and re-checked
  16. Faulkner County Office of Emergency Management (OEM/911) (faulknercountyar.gov)
  17. Floodplain Management - Faulkner County GOV, quoted and re-checked
  18. Residential Building Permit Guidelines, quoted and re-checked
  19. Residential Building Permit Guidelines, quoted and re-checked
  20. Faulkner County Road Department (faulknercountyar.gov)
  21. County Residential Development Memorandum, quoted and re-checked
  22. Faulkner County Health Unit (Arkansas Department of Health) (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  23. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  24. 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
  25. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  26. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  27. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  28. 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 4 of its 6 neighbors, Faulkner County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleFaulkner CountyConway CountyPulaski CountyLonoke CountyWhite CountyPerry CountySaline County
Building permitNot requiredLimitedRequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNot publishedNot publishedYesNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADHAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Faulkner County in Arkansas

69
County map
Faulkner County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Faulkner County scores

Seclusion48100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency65100% ev.
Admin Boringness7677% ev.
Durability52100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost79100% 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 →

$259kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$4,679Land / acre
52.2"Annual rain
7.2% of yrsSevere drought
24.8 / yr (+19.2)Mid-century 100°F days
17.3 daysMid-century dry spell
2.47" (+6.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.45×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,725Home insurance / yr
1% / yrInsurance growth
0.61%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
33,519People within 30 min
1,439,536People within 2 hr
122,195Radius comparison (15 mi)
200.8People / sq mi
3.2%Federal land
88.8%Land at 15% slope or less
2.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
10,402 acWorkable land screen
52.4%Wooded land
40.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
61.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Faulkner County

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

Not yet researched: Town of Enola · Greenbrier · Guy · Holland · Mayflower · Town of Mount Vernon · Town of Twin Groves · Vilonia · Town of Wooster

Answers from the rulebook for Faulkner County

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

Faulkner County rules

  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles placed in Special Flood Hazard Areas governed by the Faulkner County Flood Damage Prevention Code.

    • The temporary option requires the RV to be fully licensed.
    • The RV must be on wheels or a jacking system.
    • The RV may be attached to the site only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices.
    • The RV may have no permanently attached additions.
    • The RV must be immobile for no more than 180 consecutive days.
    • Alternatively, the RV must meet all provisions of the Code applicable to manufactured-home structures.

    maximum immobility period: <= 180 consecutive days (Applies to the temporary RV option.)

    “be temporary [...] being immobile for no more than 180 consecutive days; or else (b) meet all provisions of this Code applicable to manufactured home structures.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and development of non-incorporated areas of Faulkner County.

    • A competent surveyor must prepare a plat with individually numbered lots.
    • The plat must be filed with the County Judge and Circuit Clerk.
    • The County Judge must approve the plat before road construction.
    • A road-construction permit requires plat approval and payment of a $100 fee.
    • Cities with populations of 8,000 to 60,000 may have territorial jurisdiction one mile beyond city limits.

    Circuit Clerk filing fee: 15 USD (The memo states this fee without identifying a later fee schedule.) · road-construction permit fee: 100 USD (Permit required after plat approval.)

    “When an owner of land desires to subdivide and develop, the initial step is to secure the services of a “competent surveyor” to survey the subject land and create a plat with the individual lots numbered.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development in Faulkner County, with county OEM/911 administering areas outside Conway, Mayflower, Wooster, Vilonia, and Greenbrier.

    • A floodplain permit is required before construction, land clearing, or site work under the county page.
    • The application states no work may begin in zones A, A1-30, AE, AO, AH, or B until a permit is issued.
    • For Zone B or shaded Zone X, a permit is required only for a critical facility.
    • A No-Rise Certificate is required before proceeding in a regulatory floodway.
    • An Elevation Certificate is required for all structures when required by the application checklist.
    • The county page states an updated Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance was passed on March 19, 2019.
    “If the proposed development is located in Zone B or shaded Zone X, a floodplain development permit is only required if the Development is a “critical facility” as defined in the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Otherwise, no floodplain development permit is required in Zone B or shaded Zone X.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Development in Faulkner County special flood hazard areas and county-administered areas outside Conway, Mayflower, Wooster, Vilonia, and Greenbrier.
      “Before any development begins on a property in Faulkner County, a floodplain permit must be obtained. This applies countywide and is required prior to construction, land clearing, or any site work. Faulkner County OEM/911 manages floodplain permitting for all areas outside the city limits of Conway, Mayflower, Wooster, Vilonia, and Greenbrier. If your property is located within one of these cities, you must contact that city directly for permitting before starting any work.”
  • Permit processPartial

    County floodplain-development permit process outside the city limits of Conway, Mayflower, Wooster, Vilonia, and Greenbrier.

    • Complete the Floodplain Development Application and return it to Faulkner County OEM/911.
    • The county page identifies the application as the process document but does not establish a general building-permit process.
    “Complete the Floodplain Development Application below and return it to our office.”

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

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

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

    Owner-builders constructing their own residence or acting as their own home-improvement contractor in Faulkner County and elsewhere in Arkansas, for purposes of state residential contractor licensing.

    • A person constructing his or her own residence is exempt unless he or she builds 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 exemption concerns residential builder and home-improvement contractor licensing; it does not eliminate applicable building-code, floodplain, septic, zoning, or other permitting requirements.
    • The state application also identifies exemptions for properly licensed subcontractors and contractors licensed by another Arkansas licensing agency when working within that license's scope.

    maximum self-built residences per calendar year: <= 1 residences (The exemption does not apply if the person builds more than one residence during a calendar year.)

    “The following shall be exempted from the licensing requirements of this subchapter: (1) A person who acts as a residential building contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year; (2) The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property;”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — Owner acting as residential building contractor for construction of the owner's residence, and an owner of a single-family residence acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's property in Arkansas, including Faulkner County.
      “The following are exemptions to the residential builder and home improvement licensing requirements: (1) owners are exempt from licensure when acting as the contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year (2) owners acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property”
    • Available (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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted — Arkansas Building Code requirements in Faulkner County, 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.”
    • 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.”
  • 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 septicMixed (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater systems in Arkansas, including Faulkner County.

    • The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent issues and administers the permits.
    • Where a city or county has an Authorized Agent, that agent acts for the Department; otherwise applications are made to 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems serving Faulkner County properties.
      “shall have general supervision and authority”
    • State — Onsite wastewater systems in Faulkner 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.”
  • Septic permitRequired

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

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

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

    “A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or residence. [...] Permit requirement. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite wastewater system, owned by any other person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency until the owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Faulkner County.
      “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained in accordance with the RULES PERTAINING TO ONSITE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS prior to the construction, installation or modification of the Onsite Wastewater System.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Faulkner 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.”
  • 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 — Onsite wastewater systems in Faulkner County before operation.
      “It shall be the duty of the installer to notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative, when the installation is ready for inspection. [...] 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.”
    • Required — Onsite wastewater systems in Faulkner County before operation.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

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

    • Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department may be used.
    • The devices must be evaluated by an ANSI-approved laboratory under NSF Standard 41.
    • Wastewater other than urine and feces must be renovated or disposed of under Sections 8 or 9 of the rule.
    • Stabilized compost must be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary landfill.
    • The system remains subject to applicable onsite wastewater permitting and approval requirements.
    “Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Off-grid sanitation and onsite wastewater systems in Faulkner 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 hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Premises served by an available sanitary sewer in Faulkner County.

    • Connection is required when the sewer exits a building on the property owner's property, is within 300 feet, and can be reached without crossing another person's property.
    • No privies, onsite wastewater systems, or other receptacles for human excreta may be constructed, maintained, or used on such premises.

    distance to available sewer: <= 300 feet (The connection condition also requires that connection can be made without crossing another person's property.)

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Sanitary-sewer connection for premises in Faulkner County.
      “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer”
    • 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;”
  • 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.”
  • 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%”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Individual onsite wastewater permit application review in Faulkner 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.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas onsite wastewater permit review fees applicable in Faulkner County.
      “Plan review fees are collected when plans are submitted and prior to review as follows:”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping at Arkansas state-park campsites.

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

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

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

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

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

Inside cities and towns in Faulkner County

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

  • Building permitRequired

    New construction, remodels, additions, and accessory buildings within Conway.

    • Permits are issued after review approval and payment.
    • Separate individual permits are required for electrical, plumbing, gas, and mechanical work.
    • A floodplain development permit, when applicable, is required before issuance of the building permit.
    “Building permits are required for new constructions, remodels, additions, and accessory buildings.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New construction, remodels, additions, and accessory buildings within Conway.
      “Building permits are required for new constructions, remodels, additions, and accessory buildings.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction within the City of Conway, including residential construction.

    • Construction must comply with the 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2020 National Electrical Code, 2018 Arkansas Plumbing and Fuel Gas Code with local amendments, 2021 Arkansas Mechanical Code, 2017 ANSI Code, and 2014 Arkansas Energy Code.
    “All construction must comply with the following codes: 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code 2020 National Electrical Code 2018 Arkansas Plumbing and Fuel Gas Code with local amendments. 2021 Arkansas Mechanical Code 2017 ANSI Code 2014 Arkansas Energy Code”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • InspectionsRequired

    Permitted residential construction within Conway.

    • Inspections must be called in at least one business day in advance.
    • The certificate of occupancy is not issued until all final inspections have passed, all fees are paid, and all applicable departments have given final approval.
    “Inspections are required to be called in at least one business day in advance. A Certificate of Occupancy must be issued prior to occupancy. The CO will not be issued until all final inspections have passed, all fees are paid, and all departments have offered final approval (as applicable).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Occupancy of residential and commercial buildings within Conway.

    • For residential construction, all final inspections, fees, and applicable departmental approvals must be complete.
    • Commercial projects may apply for a temporary certificate of occupancy.
    “A Certificate of Occupancy must be issued prior to occupancy. The CO will not be issued until all final inspections have passed, all fees are paid, and all departments have offered final approval (as applicable).”

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, including the unincorporated area of Faulkner County.
  • Local zoning — Local zoning within Faulkner County, including incorporated municipalities and unincorporated areas.
  • Zoning districts — Zoning districts and official zoning maps in Faulkner County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Faulkner County.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements in Faulkner 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 Faulkner County, Arkansas

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

Faulkner County scores 69/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property.

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

Faulkner 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 (Faulkner County Health Unit). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

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

Land in Faulkner County runs about $4,679 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Faulkner County?

Faulkner County gets about 52.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 7.2% of years.

How remote is Faulkner County?

A representative private-land location has about 33,519 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,439,536 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Faulkner compares in Arkansas

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