Bolthole Index

Franklin County, Arkansas

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

71Index Score / 100
#49 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Franklin County, Arkansas appears not to require a county building permit, but confirm with the County Clerk before construction1. Arkansas building standards still apply to rural homes23. We could not confirm the current county zoning ordinance status; septic approval comes from the Arkansas Department of Health through its local health unit45.

At a glance

Building permit (unincorporated)
Appears not required; ask the County Clerk to confirm1
Building code
Arkansas statewide minimum standards apply in rural areas23
Zoning
Unincorporated zoning status unconfirmed; ask the County Clerk4
Septic permit
Required before construction, installation or modification6
Owner-builder
Licensing exemption may apply, but it does not waive permits or codes7
Farm building
Limited state electrical-licensing exemption for nonresidential farm work8
RV or tiny home
Single-unit occupancy is unconfirmed; paid multi-space parks are regulated910
Road work
County permit required before building, maintaining or altering a road11

Who to call

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health Franklin County Health Unit

Local health-unit contact for Franklin County; onsite wastewater applications are administered by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent

479-667-2555

509 N 29th St, Ozark, AR 72949

Roads & driveways

Franklin County Road Department

County road work permits and questions about private roads entering the County Maintenance System

479-667-4726

1601 Airport Rd, Ozark, AR 72949

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

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

A county building permit appears not to be required for a home in unincorporated Franklin County, but ask the County Clerk to confirm before construction1. Arkansas’s statewide permit framework does not establish that Franklin County operates a building department or an unincorporated-area building-permit program12. Statewide building standards apply even where no local building permit or inspection is required32. An owner acting as contractor for their own residence may qualify for a residential-contractor licensing exemption, unless they build more than 1 residence during a calendar year; the exemption does not waive building permits or inspections7. Nonresidential farm work has a limited state electrical-licensing exemption, not a general exemption from zoning, septic or other independently applicable requirements8.

Who issues building permits and road permits in Franklin County?

We could not confirm a building-permit office or inspection authority for unincorporated Franklin County; ask the County Clerk to identify the applicable building-permit process1. Within city limits, ask the city about building permits: Arkansas’s code requires building permits for new construction or remodeling where a jurisdiction has established a building department12. Septic applications throughout Franklin County go through the Arkansas Department of Health’s local health unit5. The Franklin County Road Department requires a road-work permit before building, maintaining or altering a road; ask the department separately whether a driveway connection needs approval11. Reach the department at 1601 Airport Rd, Ozark, AR 72949, phone 479-667-472613. Work on state-highway right-of-way needs a state access-driveway permit before it starts14.

Does Franklin County, Arkansas have zoning?

Unincorporated Franklin County appears to have no county zoning, but we could not confirm the current ordinance status; ask the County Clerk for any applicable zoning ordinance and map4. Arkansas allows county planning boards to prepare zoning ordinances for all or part of an unincorporated area, so statewide authority alone does not establish Franklin County’s rules15. Ask the County Clerk specifically about building setbacks, minimum home and lot sizes, and residential RV or tiny-home occupancy before relying on a parcel’s advertised uses4. Septic separation distances are separate from general building setbacks16. Without a controlling local definition, certain residential divisions into at least 3 lots, with any lot under 3 acres, enter state health subdivision review17.

How do septic permits work in Franklin County?

For Franklin County septic approval, a Designated Representative submits the completed Individual Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application, detailed plans, product specifications and required fees to the local health unit; the assigned Environmental Health Specialist acts as the Department’s Authorized Agent5. Plans must be approved before construction of the home, and the septic system needs construction and operation permits plus inspection and approval before use5618. Start with the Franklin County Health Unit at 509 N 29th St, Ozark, AR 72949, phone 479-667-255519. Residential review fees range from $30 for a structure of 1,500 square feet or less to $150 for a structure over 4,000 square feet20. Only 13.4% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for conventional drain fields, making site evaluation an early buying priority21. Public sewer connection is required when available access lies within 300 feet of the building’s sewer exit on the owner’s property or an adjacent street or alley, and connection can be made without crossing another person’s property22.

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

We could not confirm whether an RV or tiny home may be occupied on ordinary private land in unincorporated Franklin County; ask the County Clerk about lawful occupancy rather than treating uncertain zoning as permission4. Arkansas separately regulates parcels with at least 3 RV, tiny-house-on-wheels or mobile-home spaces where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee, requiring Department of Health approval before park construction or alteration23. In regulated parks, RVs may not be permanently connected to spaces, must be readily movable before flooding, and require at least 15 feet of separation from other RVs and structures23. A tiny house on wheels in that park framework is classified according to its plumbing and inspection status10. Those park-specific rules do not establish permission for a single unit elsewhere24. Off-grid sanitation still requires an approved wastewater solution unless the public-sewer connection rule controls25.

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

  1. Establish whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside city limits, then ask the County Clerk or city office about building permits, inspections, occupancy approval and zoning1412.
  1. Check public-sewer availability and whether connection is possible without crossing another person’s property22.
  1. If septic is appropriate, have a Designated Representative submit plans and fees to the Franklin County Health Unit before home construction5.
  1. Lay out the home, well and drain field around state wastewater separation distances16.
  1. Obtain the county road-work permit or state-highway access-driveway permit before the corresponding work starts1114.
  1. Build to statewide Arkansas building standards and obtain septic inspection and the operation permit before using the system318.

What should you check before buying land in Franklin County?

Before buying in unincorporated Franklin County, ask the County Clerk to confirm building-permit and zoning requirements, along with the inspection, occupancy and floodplain-review path; those local procedures remain unconfirmed14. If the parcel needs a well, Arkansas requires statewide construction standards and licensed well contractors unless exempt; the listed rig permit is a contractor requirement, not confirmation of a separate permit for every individual well26. Plan wastewater facilities at least 10 feet from dwellings and property lines and at least 100 feet from domestic water sources, subject to site conditions and approved waivers16. Adjoining owners maintain private roads, and county maintenance acceptance requires county specifications and Road Foreman inspection11. Franklin County is 58.6% wooded and 32.4% federally owned, making a survey and boundary check useful2728. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.5%, with a median annual bill of about $5982930.

Watch-outs

  • A county building permit appears unnecessary in unincorporated Franklin County, but statewide building standards still apply13.
  • Available public sewer within 300 feet of the building’s sewer exit can rule out private septic when connection is possible without crossing another person’s property2225.
  • State septic separation distances do not establish general building setbacks; ask the County Clerk or city office about the parcel’s building setbacks164.
  • A county road-work permit does not establish the approval needed for an individual driveway connection; ask the Franklin County Road Department1113.

Sources

  1. Franklin County Arkansas Government - Departments (2026 county census)
  2. arkleg.state.ar.us, quoted and re-checked
  3. Home Improvement New Application, quoted and re-checked
  4. Franklin County Arkansas Government - Departments (2026 county census)
  5. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  6. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  7. State of Arkansas Home Improvement New Application, quoted and re-checked
  8. 17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions, quoted and re-checked
  9. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance, quoted and re-checked
  10. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance, quoted and re-checked
  11. County Roads - Franklin County Government, quoted and re-checked
  12. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Rules, quoted and re-checked
  13. Franklin County Road Department (franklincountyar.gov)
  14. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. arkleg.state.ar.us (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  17. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  18. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  19. Arkansas Department of Health Franklin County Health Unit (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  20. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  21. 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
  22. 20 CAR § 131-106. Treatment and disposal of human waste, quoted and re-checked
  23. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  24. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  25. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  26. Arkansas Water Well Construction Commission Rules (updated 2020), quoted and re-checked
  27. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Federal land share: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 5 of its 6 neighbors, Franklin County has no countywide zoning.

RuleFranklin CountyCrawford CountyJohnson CountyLogan CountySebastian CountyMadison CountyWashington County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedLimitedNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoYes
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Franklin County in Arkansas

71
County map
Franklin County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Franklin County scores

Seclusion58100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency62100% ev.
Admin Boringness85100% ev.
Durability46100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost85100% 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 →

$182kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$3,245Land / acre
52.6"Annual rain
10.7% of yrsSevere drought
22.5 / yr (+16.6)Mid-century 100°F days
19 daysMid-century dry spell
2.53" (+6.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.47×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,693Home insurance / yr
1.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.78%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
19,516People within 30 min
1,366,374People within 2 hr
31,282Radius comparison (15 mi)
28.7People / sq mi
32.4%Federal land
73.9%Land at 15% slope or less
13.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
46,471 acWorkable land screen
58.6%Wooded land
51.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
59.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Franklin 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: Altus · Branch · Town of Denning · Ozark · Wiederkehr Village

Answers from the rulebook for Franklin County

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

Franklin County rules

  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building, maintaining, or altering a road in Franklin County, including private-road work where the county road ordinance applies.

    • A permit is required before building, maintaining, or altering a road in Franklin County.
    • The cited page does not publish the application form, review timeline, permit fee, or complete ordinance text.
    • Private roads are not in the County Maintenance System and are maintained by the property owners.
    • Bringing a private road into the County Maintenance System requires compliance with Franklin County specifications set by Quorum Court ordinance and inspection by the Franklin County Road Foreman.
    • County roads used by oil and gas industries with heavy equipment must be bonded.
    “It is required by ordinance to obtain a permit, prior to building, maintaining, or altering a road in Franklin County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — Road building, maintenance, or alteration in Franklin County, including county and private roads where the work falls within the county's road-permit requirement.
      “It is required by ordinance to obtain a permit, prior to building, maintaining, or altering a road in Franklin County.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No planning or zoning department appears among Franklin County's listed offices, consistent with unzoned rural Arkansas counties.

    Franklin County Arkansas Government - Departments ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    New construction or remodeling subject to the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where a local jurisdiction has established a building department, and specified fire-code-regulated work where a permit is required.

    • A building permit is required under Volume II Section 105 where the jurisdiction has established a building department under Volume II Section 103.
    • The cited rule does not establish that Franklin County has established a building department or adopted a county permit program.
    • If no building official is appointed, the application is made to the State Fire Marshal.
    • The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Rules state an effective date of January 1, 2023.
    • The cited provision concerns permits within the corporate limits of the jurisdiction; it does not by itself establish a Franklin County unincorporated-area permit requirement.
    “Where a jurisdiction has established a building department in accordance with Vol. II, Section 103 of the Code, permits within the corporate limits of the jurisdiction for new construction or remodeling shall be required in accordance with Vol. II, Section 105 of the Code.”
    2 more reviewed findings 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.”
    • Limited — Construction subject to the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.
      “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.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Arkansas residential builder and home-improvement contractor licensing for owner-builders, including Franklin County

    • The exemption concerns residential builder and home-improvement licensing, not a general exemption from building permits or inspections.
    • An owner acting as the contractor in construction of the owner's residence is exempt from licensure unless the owner builds more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • An owner acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's own property is exempt from licensure.
    • The source also lists exemptions for subcontractors working for properly licensed contractors and contractors licensed by other agencies when working within the scope of that license.

    owner-built residences per calendar year: <= 1 residence (The source states the exemption does not apply if the owner builds more than one residence during any calendar year.)

    “owners are exempt from licensure when acting as the contractor [...] unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Arkansas residential contractor licensing for an individual constructing the individual’s own residence or an owner of a single-family residence acting as the owner’s own home-improvement contractor on the owner’s property.
      “construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year;”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, use, occupancy, and demolition of buildings or structures in Arkansas, including Franklin County, subject to the code's residential exception and locally adopted appendices.

    • The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code consists of the 2021 International Fire Code, International Building Code, and International Residential Code as amended and adopted by the Arkansas State Fire Marshal.
    • The rules are effective January 1, 2023.
    • Appendices do not apply unless specifically adopted; Appendices B, C, D, E, F, G, and K are adopted by the State of Arkansas, while other appendices require local ordinance adoption.
    • Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision may adopt only the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition, as the foundation for more stringent local provisions.
    • New structures must comply with Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Volume II; qualifying detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses may comply with Volume II or Volume III.
    • Construction permits required by Section 105.6 apply where interior or exterior systems or devices are installed under the residential-code provisions.

    effective date: 2023-01-01

    “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
    9 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — State-funded capital project designs in Arkansas, including projects located in Franklin County when the rule applies.
      “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15”
    • Adopted — Building and fire-code standards applicable across Arkansas, including Franklin County.
      “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code is used by State, County, and Municipal fire and building code officials across Arkansas to ensure the safety of individuals using and occupying all types of buildings and structures. Adopting a statewide fire and building code provides for consistency and uniformity.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building-code requirements applicable throughout Arkansas, including Franklin County.
      “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
    • Adopted — Building-code requirements applicable in Franklin 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. The Arkansas Building Code is adopted by the State Fire Marshal’s office. It is a part of the Fire Prevention Code. The Code applies Statewide, even in rural and unincorporated areas. Arkansas is currently under the 2012 Edition of the Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Out-of-school time facilities in Arkansas, including such facilities in Franklin County, subject to administration by the local fire department or the State Fire Marshal.
      “Out-of-school time (OST) facilities shall comply with the minimum requirements of the currently adopted Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as administered by the local fire department or by the State Fire Marshal, who has final authority.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building-code requirements applicable statewide in Arkansas, including projects located in Franklin County; local jurisdictions may impose more stringent amendments.
      “Arkansas building codes are mandatory statewide, but local jurisdictions may amend the codes to make them more stringent.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures throughout Arkansas, under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including Volume II for building-code requirements and Volume III for residential-code requirements.
      “Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state shall only adopt and enforce the provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition. [...] The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the International Building Code Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the International Building Code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, shall be made in accordance therewith.”
    • Partial — State projects in Arkansas.
      “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State projects in Arkansas subject to the Building Authority Division design-review rules.
      “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office. Arkansas laws and this subchapter shall have precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed the requirements of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. All project designs shall comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. Other codes, rules, or standards may be applicable to a specific project. It is the department’s and design professional’s responsibility to determine all applicable codes for each specific project.”
  • InspectionsRequired

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

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

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

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

    Onsite wastewater collection, treatment, and renovation facilities in Franklin County, Arkansas; these are statewide Arkansas Department of Health setbacks and are not general building setbacks.

    • Minimum horizontal distances apply where ideal conditions indicate them to be sufficient; greater distances are required where local conditions demand.
    • Waivers, except where public water supplies are involved, must be submitted to and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health.
    • Waivers affecting public water supplies must be submitted to and approved by Engineering.
    • Local water-well details, geological formations, and subsoil porosity should be considered when determining the safe allowable distance.
    • For ponds on adjacent properties, the 100-foot separation applies if the property is in the pond watershed; in no case may the minimum separation from any pond be less than 50 feet.

    distance from high-water mark of any body of water: >= 300 feet (Applies if within one quarter mile of a public water supply intake on that body of water.) · distance from spring used as a public water supply: >= 300 feet · distance from source of domestic water supply: >= 100 feet · distance from high-water mark of stream or lake: >= 100 feet · distance from pond on same property: >= 50 feet · distance from pond on adjacent property: >= 100 feet (Applies if in the pond watershed; in no case may separation from any pond be less than 50 feet.) · distance from dwelling or building: >= 10 feet · distance from property lines: >= 10 feet · distance from water service line: >= 10 feet (See Arkansas Plumbing Code.) · distance from sinkhole: >= 100 feet

    “6.2.7 Facilities used for the collection, treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 10 feet from all property lines.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational-vehicle occupancy in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks, including any such park in Franklin County.
      “Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and”
  • 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”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Tiny houses on wheels placed in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks, including any such park in Franklin County.
      “shall be considered a: (A) Mobile home, if plumbed and inspected”
    • Limited — Occupancy of tiny houses on wheels in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
      ““Tiny house on wheels” means a structure intended as a habitable dwelling for one (1) or more individuals which, for the purposes of this part, shall be considered a: (A) Mobile home, if plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code, 17 CAR pt. 65; or (B) Recreational vehicle, if not plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code;”
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater and septic-system permitting in Franklin County under Arkansas's statewide onsite-wastewater program.

    • The Environmental Health Specialist assigned to the county or business unit acts as the Department's Authorized Agent.
    • The Designated Representative submits the completed Individual Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application with detailed plans, product specifications, and required fees to the appropriate local health unit.
    • The Franklin County local health unit is listed at 509 N 29th St, Ozark, Arkansas 72949, telephone 479-667-2555.
    • The cited rule is the 2024 Arkansas Department of Health onsite-wastewater rule.
    “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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in Franklin County, including systems on subdivisions and platted or unplatted lots or tracts.
      “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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, or modification of onsite wastewater systems in Franklin County, Arkansas.
      “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained in accordance with this part prior to the construction, installation, or modification of the onsite wastewater system.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas after installation or construction.

    • The system must be inspected and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before operation.
    • The owner must obtain a Permit for Operation before the system is used.
    • The installer must notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative when the installation is ready for inspection.
    • The owner or occupant must provide free access at reasonable times for inspection.
    • The installer must submit required installation documentation to the local health unit within five days.
    • The inspection may be performed by the Authorized Agent or, with the Authorized Agent's approval, by the Designated Representative.

    installer documentation deadline: 5 days (after installation pursuant to the approved permit)

    “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent. [...] Within five (5) days, the installer shall submit the required documentation to the local health unit that the system has been installed pursuant to the approved permit. [...] After approval of the inspection, the Authorized Agent will approve and issue a Permit for Operation. The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Operation of onsite wastewater systems in Franklin 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.”
  • 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 — Privies and onsite wastewater systems used for human excreta disposal in Franklin County.
      “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. No privies, onsite wastewater systems, or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Construction or repair of water wells and installation or repair of pumping equipment in Franklin County.

    • Water-well construction and repair must comply with statewide minimum standards.
    • Water wells subject to the rules must be constructed only by persons holding a valid license under Act 641 of 1969 unless exempt under that Act.
    • Written Commission permission is required before developing a well in certain geographical locations where safe potable water may be obtained despite nonconformity.
    • The rules list a $145 rig permit fee, but the opened rule does not expressly state that every individual well requires a separate well permit.

    rig permit fee: 145 USD

    “Each rig owned and operated by a contractor shall have a separate permit per permit year. Rig permits are not transferable.”
    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.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Homes and businesses in Franklin County where a public or sanitary sewer is accessible within the stated distance.

    • Connection is required when the sewer exits the building within 300 feet of access to the public sewer on the owner's property or an adjacent street or alley.
    • Under 14 CAR § 21-301(a), the sewer must also be available and connection must be possible without crossing another person's property.
    • No statewide water-utility connection requirement was located.

    distance from building sewer exit to available public sewer access: <= 300 feet (The sewer must be available and connection must be possible without crossing another person's property.)

    “Connection to a public sewer system is required of all homes and businesses when the point where the sewer exits the building is located within three hundred feet (300’) of access to the public sewer located on the owner’s property or an adjacent street or alley (Arkansas Code § 14-235-304).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — State licensing requirements for construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Franklin County and elsewhere in Arkansas.
      “(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;”
    • Available (with conditions) — Arkansas electrical-contractor licensing requirements for construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure, including in Franklin County.
      “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;”
    • Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
      “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Residential subdivision development in Arkansas, including Franklin County, when onsite-wastewater review is required and no controlling local subdivision ordinance defines the term.

    • Where local ordinances exist, the rule defines subdivision by reference to parcels required by local ordinances.
    • In the absence of local ordinances, subdivision includes land divided or proposed to be divided for predominantly residential purposes into three or more lots or parcels, platted or unplatted, any of which contains less than three acres, as part of a uniform plan of development.
    • Subdivision review is subject to onsite-wastewater soil, absorption-area, and submission requirements.
    • Lots less than three acres must meet stated seasonal-water-table depth criteria.
    • Drip-dispersal designs used to determine minimum lot size require primary and secondary absorption areas to be flagged on contour and legally described; such lots must be at least 0.5 acre.
    • Submission is made to the local health unit using an approved review method.

    lots triggering default subdivision definition: >= 3 lots or parcels (Only in the absence of local ordinances and when any lot or parcel is less than three acres.) · drip-dispersal minimum lot size: >= 0.5 acre (Only when the stated drip-dispersal criteria are met.) · brief seasonal water-table depth for lots under three acres: >= 13 inches (For undisturbed soils.) · adjusted moderate seasonal water-table depth for lots under three acres: >= 18 inches (For undisturbed soils.) · adjusted long seasonal water-table depth for lots under three acres: >= 24 inches (For undisturbed soils.)

    ““Subdivision” means land divided or proposed to be divided for predominantly residential purposes into such parcels as required by local ordinances. In the absence of local ordinances, subdivision means any land which is divided or proposed to be divided by a common owner or owners for predominantly residential purposes into three (3) or more lots or parcels, platted or unplatted units, any of which contains less than three (3) acres, as a part of a uniform plan of development;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats that are boundary surveys creating parcels in Arkansas.
      “Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office [...] Filing is not required [...] for survey plats [...] located in a municipality [...]”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Construction, reconstruction, modification, or relocation of access driveways on Arkansas State Highway right-of-way, including residential, commercial, and temporary access driveways.

    • No work may begin on State Highway right-of-way until the engineer issues the permit.
    • Applications are made to the District Engineer and include a work description, location, applicant contact information, and required drawings or deposit/bond.
    • An Access Management Agreement may require approval or a permit from the relevant jurisdiction; failure to provide it may be grounds for denial.
    • Commercial driveway permits generally require a minimum $1,000 deposit or bond per driveway, with governmental-entity waiver possible.
    • Temporary driveway access is limited to 120 days initially, extendable at 60-day intervals up to 240 days.

    commercial driveway deposit or bond: >= 1000 USD per driveway minimum (May be waived for governmental entities.) · temporary driveway initial duration: <= 120 days maximum (May be extended at 60-day intervals up to 240 total days.) · frontage limit: 50 feet or less (Limited to one driveway.) · rural setback inside adjoining property frontage: >= 10 feet minimum (Urban minimum is 5 feet; Section 6.9 exceptions may apply.)

    “A permit shall be obtained from the Department for all access driveways on State Highways.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development by an Arkansas state department on property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area.

    • The rule applies to a state department proposing the development, not generally to all private or local development statewide.
    • The department must submit an application on a form approved by the Design Review Section.
    • The application must include the application number, date, department or property owner, site address or legal description, development type, brief description, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, attachment acknowledgment, and applicant contact/signature information.
    • Supporting attachments should include the FEMA map, copies of other regulatory permits such as Clean Water Act sections 401 and 404 permits, elevation certificates, a certification of no increase in base flood elevation or no-rise certificate, a flood-proofing certificate, certifications for water supply, sanitary sewer, and on-site waste disposal systems, and notification of watercourse alteration or relocation.
    • The Design Review Section reviews and approves or disapproves the application; if approved, the floodplain administrator issues a development permit for the design phase.
    • The permit must be posted during construction; the site is reviewed before final acceptance; and noncompliant work requires correction or may be designated a nonconforming use site.
    • For riverine watercourse alteration or relocation, the department must notify the division, adjacent communities, and the state NFIP Coordinator at the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission before the alteration or relocation, submit copies to the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, maintain flood-carrying capacity, and provide an engineering study of before-and-after conditions prepared by a registered professional engineer.
    • For structures and equipment pads under the state rule, elevation requirements vary by FEMA-map and base-flood-elevation availability: two feet above adjacent grade where no FEMA map exists; two feet above the Building Authority Division base flood elevation where no nearby FEMA base flood elevation data exists; and one foot above the accepted or mapped base flood elevation in the circumstances specified by 22 CAR § 111-708.

    minimum elevation where no FEMA map exists and site is flood-prone: 2 feet above adjacent grade · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists but no base flood elevation data is provided within 500 feet: 2 feet above the Building Authority Division-established base flood elevation · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists, no site base flood elevation is provided, and a base flood elevation is available within 500 feet or from another authoritative source: 1 foot above the base flood elevation accepted by the division · minimum elevation where FEMA map provides a base flood elevation at the site: 1 foot above the elevation shown on the map in the flood insurance study, if available, or as interpolated between map elevations

    “When a department proposes to develop property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area, the department shall submit an application for a development permit on a form approved by the Design Review Section.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Individual onsite wastewater permit review in Franklin County, Arkansas, under the Arkansas Department of Health statewide rule.

    • The fee is payable to the Arkansas Department of Health before issuance of Part 1 of the Permit Application.
    • There is no refund if the applicant does not proceed under the Permit Application.
    • Construction must begin within one year of issuance or the permit must be re-validated by the original submitting Designated Representative or the Department’s Authorized Agent.
    • Fees are tiered by residential structure square footage: $30 for 1,500 square feet or less; $45 for more than 1,500 through 2,000 square feet; $90 for more than 2,000 through 3,000 square feet; $120 for more than 3,000 through 4,000 square feet; $150 for more than 4,000 square feet.
    • Alteration, repair, or extension of an individual sewage disposal system has a $30 review fee.
    • Auxiliary areas, including garages, carports, porches, and other similar areas determined by the Division of Environmental Health Protection, are excluded from residential square-footage calculations.

    review fee for structure up to 1,500 sq. ft.: 30 USD · review fee for structure over 1,500 and up to 2,000 sq. ft.: 45 USD · review fee for structure over 2,000 and up to 3,000 sq. ft.: 90 USD · review fee for structure over 3,000 and up to 4,000 sq. ft.: 120 USD · review fee for structure over 4,000 sq. ft.: 150 USD · alteration, repair, or extension review fee: 30 USD (Individual sewage disposal system)

    “4.9.1 A fee shall be levied for the review of Individual Onsite Wastewater Permit Applications as follows: 4.9.1.1 For structures one thousand five hundred square feet (1,500 sq. ft.) or less, the fee to review a permit application is thirty dollars ($30.00);”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping at Arkansas state-park campsites.

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

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

    “Campers may not occupy campsites within the same park in excess of fourteen (14) days within a thirty-day period.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Temporary camping or transient recreational-vehicle dwelling in a park in Franklin County, including a parcel with three or more RV spaces operated for a fee.
      “(a) 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.”
  • 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 Franklin County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Property within the City of Ozark in the Ozark District of Franklin County, Arkansas.

    • The cited ordinance concerns a specific 4.99-acre tract at N. 3611 St., Ozark, Arkansas 72949.
    • The Ozark Planning Commission held a public hearing on August 8, 2024, and the ordinance was passed on August 12, 2024.
    • The ordinance modifies the property from R-1 to R-3; conflicting ordinances or regulations are repealed for this amendment.

    zoning classification change: R-1 to R-3 · parcel area: 4.99 acres (subject to any easements of record)

    “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING REGULATIONS AND ZONING MAPS OF THE CITY OF OZARK; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Property within the City of Ozark, Franklin County, Arkansas.
      “That the zoning regulations and map of the City of Ozark shall be amended”
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning regulations and zoning-map administration within the City of Ozark, Arkansas, in Franklin County.
      “AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING REGULATIONS AND ZONING MAPS OF THE CITY OF OZARK; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. [...] SECTION 1: That the zoning regulations and map of the City of Ozark shall be amended to reflect that.the zoning of the following described property located in the Ozark District of Franklin County, Arkansas is modified from R- 1 to R- 3 to-wit:”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Published countywide zoning districts, zoning maps, or zoning-district rules in Franklin County, Arkansas.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Ordinary residential minimum dwelling size in Franklin County, including unincorporated areas, excluding rules that apply only to incorporated municipalities or specialized programs.
  • Minimum lot size — Ordinary residential minimum lot size in Franklin County, including unincorporated areas, excluding incorporated-municipality or specialized regulated-area rules.
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Franklin County.
  • Building height — Building-height limits in unincorporated Franklin County.
3 more unanswered
  • 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 Franklin County, Arkansas

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

Franklin County scores 71/100 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 Franklin County, Arkansas?

Franklin 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. 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 Franklin County?

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

Land in Franklin County runs about $3,245 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Franklin County?

Franklin County gets about 52.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 10.7% of years.

How remote is Franklin County?

A representative private-land location has about 19,516 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,366,374 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 Franklin compares in Arkansas

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