Bolthole Index

Garland County, Arkansas

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

62Index Score / 100
#70 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Garland County, Arkansas generally does not issue a conventional building permit, but the Floodplain Administrator must determine whether development needs a permit or qualifies for an exemption12. Garland County has no county zoning program, while septic permits go through the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent34.

At a glance

Building permit
No general county permit; obtain a conditional development permit or floodplain exemption before development51
Zoning
No county zoning program; municipal zoning can still apply36
Septic permits
Required before construction and before operation; handled by the Arkansas Department of Health through the local health unit478
Owner-builder exemption
Yes, statewide; you may build your own single residence without a contractor license, once per calendar year9
RV or tiny-home living
No county zoning restriction in unincorporated areas; floodplain, sanitation and private covenants still apply10115
Road/driveway permits
County road cuts and culverts go through the Road Department; state-highway driveways go through ARDOT1213
Septic soil suitability
Only 1.9% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field14
County zoning dimensions
No county-zoning minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size or setback in unincorporated areas151617

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Office of the Garland County Judge

Countywide planning, zoning and permitting policy for unincorporated Garland County; issues permits for work (cables, trenching, boring) within county road rights-of-way; general county administration

501/622-3600

501 Ouachita, Room 210, Garland County Courthouse, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas 71901

Floodplain permits

Garland County Department of Emergency Management / Floodplain Administrator

Floodplain development permits and exemptions for new construction or significant remodeling; addressing for new or unaddressed structures

(501) 767-3911

401 Mid America Blvd., Hot Springs, AR

Septic permits

Garland County Health Department Inspections Division

Septic (onsite wastewater) system permits and inquiries for Garland County, on behalf of the Arkansas Department of Health Onsite Wastewater Program

(501) 624-3394

Roads & driveways

Garland County Road Department

Driveway and culvert permits for cuts into county road rights-of-way

(501) 767-9174

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 4, 2026.

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

Garland County generally does not issue a conventional building permit, but individuals and developers must apply through the Floodplain Administrator for the county's development review51. Garland County's documented local code adoption consists of flood-damage-prevention controls for unincorporated development, particularly in flood hazard areas18. A permit is not required when the actual construction location does not contact the Special Flood Hazard Area, but the owner must prove that location to the Floodplain Manager19. Development in a flood hazard area must use materials and methods that minimize flood damage20. Arkansas's statewide building code still applies to covered new structures and alterations even where local permitting or inspection is limited2122. Garland County does not issue certificates of occupancy in unincorporated areas, although municipalities may set their own requirements23.

Who handles building, zoning and permits in Garland County, and how do you reach them?

Garland County has no general building-department counter, so start with the office that controls the specific approval5. For general permitting questions and work within a county-road right-of-way, contact the Office of the Garland County Judge at 501 Ouachita, Room 210, Garland County Courthouse, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas 71901, phone 501/622-36005. Conditional development permits, floodplain exemptions and new addresses run through the Department of Emergency Management / Floodplain Administrator at 401 Mid America Blvd., Hot Springs, AR, phone (501) 767-391124. Septic questions go to the Health Department Inspections Division at (501) 624-33948. For a driveway or culvert on a county road, call the Road Department at (501) 767-9174; work on state-highway right-of-way requires an ARDOT permit1213.

Does Garland County have zoning?

Garland County has no county zoning program and does not restrict manufactured-home placement on unplatted parcels3. In unincorporated Garland County, county zoning does not set a minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size or setback151617. County zoning also does not set lot coverage or building height10. These answers do not erase subdivision controls, floodplain, road, sanitation or addressing requirements, and manufactured homes in flood-hazard areas must meet elevation, flood-resistant-material, utility-protection, foundation and anchoring standards161725. Municipal rules differ: Hot Springs administers land-use and development ordinances addressing zoning, subdivisions and manufactured homes6. A bill of assurance or restrictive covenant can also limit construction or land use, and the county directs buyers to the Circuit Clerk to search for those restrictions5.

How do septic permits work in Garland County?

The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent handles onsite-wastewater approval in Garland County, with local questions directed to the Health Department Inspections Division at (501) 624-339448. A construction permit is required before installing, altering, repairing or extending a system, and the system cannot be used until it is inspected, approved and issued an operation permit726. The application-review fee for an individual system serving a structure of 1,500 square feet or less is $30, excluding garages, carports and porches from the area calculation27. Only 1.9% of Garland County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation an early purchase contingency14. If a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet of the building's sewer-exit point and is reachable without crossing another person's property, connection is required28.

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

Unincorporated Garland County has no county zoning restriction on RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy or temporary camping10. That answer is limited to county zoning: an occupied off-grid setup still needs approved sanitation, and an onsite wastewater system cannot be used before its operation permit is issued11. Arkansas separately regulates a parcel as a mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park when at least 3 paid spaces are occupied or intended for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes and placement or maintenance services are provided29. Hot Springs land-use rules may apply inside the city, and municipal rules elsewhere may vary6. Private bills of assurance and restrictive covenants can also limit the use, so search the parcel records with the Circuit Clerk5.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or under municipal land-use rules, then search the Circuit Clerk's records for private restrictions65.
  2. Apply through the Floodplain Administrator; the office determines whether the work needs a floodplain permit or qualifies for an exemption219.
  3. Get an onsite-wastewater evaluation and construction permit before installation; difficult soils can determine the usable house site714.
  4. If creating a subdivision that will use standard onsite systems, submit the overall wastewater plan to the Arkansas Department of Health30.
  5. Secure county-road or state-highway access approval before cutting a right-of-way1213.
  6. Build to applicable Arkansas code requirements, then arrange the septic inspection and operation permit before use2126. An owner may build the owner's residence without a residential-contractor license if the owner does not build more than 1 residence in the calendar year, but other approvals remain required31.

What to check before you buy land in Garland County

Ask the Floodplain Administrator whether the proposed building area affects a flood hazard area and what proof is needed for an exemption20. Search for recorded private restrictions and verify whether Hot Springs jurisdiction reaches the parcel5. Treat septic suitability as a purchase contingency: only 1.9% of Garland County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field14. Terrain and clearing can compound that constraint because 44.8% of county land has a slope of 15% or less and 80.6% is wooded3233. Confirm legal access and whether the entrance meets a county road or state highway before choosing a homesite1213. For budgeting context, the typical home value is about $249,604, farmland value is about $7,941 per acre, the effective property-tax rate is about 0.5%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $91534353637.

Watch-outs

  • Garland County's guidance says the county is not responsible for private restrictive covenants, so search for a bill of assurance before relying on the absence of county zoning5.
  • Only 1.9% of Garland County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so get a site evaluation before committing to a homesite or system design14.
  • Garland County's lack of county zoning does not waive floodplain or sanitation approval, municipal rules, or private covenants31165.

Sources

  1. Floodplain, quoted and re-checked
  2. Floodplain, quoted and re-checked
  3. Information on Planning, Zoning, Development, Doing Business and Permitting in Garland County, quoted and re-checked
  4. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  5. Office of the Garland County Judge (garlandcounty.org)
  6. Information on Planning, Zoning, Development, Doing Business and Permitting in Garland County, quoted and re-checked
  7. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  8. Garland County Health Department Inspections Division (garlandcounty.org)
  9. Arkansas Residential Contractor Rules (2026 county census)
  10. Arkansas law on county zoning and building authority
  11. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  12. Garland County Road Department (garlandcounty.org)
  13. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  15. Information on Planning, Zoning, Development, Doing Business and Permitting in Garland County, quoted and re-checked
  16. Information on Planning, Zoning, Development, Doing Business and Permitting in Garland County, quoted and re-checked
  17. Information on Planning, Zoning, Development, Doing Business and Permitting in Garland County, quoted and re-checked
  18. Floodplain | Garland County, AR, quoted and re-checked
  19. Floodplain, quoted and re-checked
  20. Floodplain | Garland County, AR, quoted and re-checked
  21. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. Garland County Addressing, quoted and re-checked
  24. Garland County Department of Emergency Management / Floodplain Administrator (garlandcounty.org)
  25. Floodplain, quoted and re-checked
  26. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  27. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  28. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  29. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  31. Arkansas Residential Contractor Rules, quoted and re-checked
  32. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  33. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data
  35. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data
  36. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 4, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Garland County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleGarland CountyHot Spring CountySaline CountyPerry CountyMontgomery CountyClark CountyYell County
Building permitLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNot publishedNoNo
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADH

County locator

Garland County in Arkansas

62
County map
Garland County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Garland County scores

Seclusion46100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency57100% ev.
Admin Boringness6677% ev.
Durability46100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost70100% 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 →

$250kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$7,941Land / acre
55.2"Annual rain
12.1% of yrsSevere drought
25.3 / yr (+19.6)Mid-century 100°F days
17.3 daysMid-century dry spell
2.83" (+7.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.44×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,904Home insurance / yr
0.8% / yrInsurance growth
0.64%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
91,530People within 30 min
1,496,825People within 2 hr
93,011Radius comparison (15 mi)
147.3People / sq mi
34.6%Federal land
44.8%Land at 15% slope or less
1.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
7,615 acWorkable land screen
80.6%Wooded land
41.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
61.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Garland 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.

Town of Fountain Lake · Hot Springs · Town of Lonsdale · Mountain Pine

Answers from the rulebook for Garland County

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

Garland County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Construction and development permits administered by the Garland County Floodplain Administrator.

    • The county page states that individuals and developers must apply through the Office of Emergency Management, Floodplain Administrator.
    • If construction is outside a flood hazard area, the Floodplain Administrator may issue an exemption certificate.
    • The cited requirement is a floodplain/development permit requirement and does not establish a general building permit requirement for every project.
    “The county now requires individuals and developers to apply for construction permits through the Office of Emergency Management, Floodplain Administrator. However, if the construction is outside a flood hazard area, the Floodplain Administrator may issue an exemption certificate, and the property to be developed may not be required to meet the permitting requirements of the county’s flood management regulations.”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Construction and development in unincorporated Garland County, particularly development in flood hazard areas.

    • On May 24, 1990, the Garland County Quorum Court adopted Ordinance 0-90-58 establishing flood damage prevention controls consistent with the National Flood Insurance Program.
    • Individuals and developers must apply for construction permits through the Office of Emergency Management, Floodplain Administrator.
    • If construction is outside a flood hazard area, the Floodplain Administrator may issue an exemption certificate, and the property may not be required to meet the county flood-management permitting requirements.
    • Development in flood hazard areas must use construction materials and methods that minimize flood damage.
    • Under Ordinance 0-21-30, no permit is required where the actual construction location does not contact the Special Flood Hazard Area; the property owner bears the burden of proving this to the Floodplain Manager.
    “On May 24, 1990, the Garland County Quorum Court adopted Ordinance 0-90-58, which enacted flood damage prevention controls consistent with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The county now requires individuals and developers to apply for construction permits through the Office of Emergency Management, Floodplain Administrator.”
  • Certificate of occupancyNot required

    Certificates of occupancy issued by Garland County for unincorporated areas.

    • This statement concerns Garland County; incorporated municipalities may have their own certificate-of-occupancy rules.
    “The county does not issue any type of Certificate of Occupancy. However, the Quorum Court has adopted several ordinances related to development issues in the Unincorporated areas.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Zoning program administered by Garland County; incorporated municipalities may administer separate municipal zoning.

    • The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county.
    • The memorandum describes county development ordinances applicable in unincorporated areas; county floodplain, road, environmental, addressing, and other non-zoning controls may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Countywide aggregate of zoning administered by local governments within Garland County; this is not a claim that Garland County administers municipal zoning.

    • Garland County itself reports that it does not have a zoning program.
    • Within the incorporated City of Hot Springs, the City Planning and Development Department administers and enforces land-use and development ordinances addressing zoning.
    • The cited City of Hot Springs source does not establish zoning coverage or rules for every other incorporated municipality or unincorporated area in Garland County.
    “The Planning and Development Department administers and enforces ordinances relating to land use and development. The department addresses such issues as zoning, subdivisions, manufactured homes, signs, and the Historic District.”
  • Zoning districts · by state lawNot published

    Unincorporated Garland County: no county rule sets this, because Garland County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county.
    • The memorandum describes county development ordinances applicable in unincorporated areas; county floodplain, road, environmental, addressing, and other non-zoning controls may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeNone

    Minimum dwelling-size requirements arising from county zoning in unincorporated Garland County.

    • Garland County states that it does not have a zoning program; no county zoning minimum-dwelling-size requirement was identified.
    • Restrictive covenants, subdivision controls, floodplain requirements, health requirements, and applicable state or municipal rules may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Minimum lot sizeNone

    County zoning minimum-lot-size requirements in unincorporated Garland County.

    • Garland County states that it does not have a zoning program; no county zoning minimum-lot-size requirement was identified.
    • Subdivision requirements, restrictive covenants, septic requirements, floodplain rules, and municipal rules may still impose parcel or development constraints.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • SetbacksNone

    County zoning setbacks in unincorporated Garland County.

    • Garland County states that it does not have a zoning program; no county zoning setback requirement was identified.
    • This does not eliminate setbacks or restrictions arising from restrictive covenants, subdivision controls, roads, floodplain rules, or municipal jurisdiction.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Lot coverage · by state lawNone

    Unincorporated Garland County: no county rule sets this, because Garland County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county.
    • The memorandum describes county development ordinances applicable in unincorporated areas; county floodplain, road, environmental, addressing, and other non-zoning controls may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Building height · by state lawNone

    Unincorporated Garland County: no county rule sets this, because Garland County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county.
    • The memorandum describes county development ordinances applicable in unincorporated areas; county floodplain, road, environmental, addressing, and other non-zoning controls may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Living in an RV · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Garland County: no county rule sets this, because Garland County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county.
    • The memorandum describes county development ordinances applicable in unincorporated areas; county floodplain, road, environmental, addressing, and other non-zoning controls may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Camping on your land · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Garland County: no county rule sets this, because Garland County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county.
    • The memorandum describes county development ordinances applicable in unincorporated areas; county floodplain, road, environmental, addressing, and other non-zoning controls may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Tiny homes · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Garland County: no county rule sets this, because Garland County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county.
    • The memorandum describes county development ordinances applicable in unincorporated areas; county floodplain, road, environmental, addressing, and other non-zoning controls may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes in Garland County flood-hazard areas.

    • Manufactured homes must meet the same standards as other residential buildings for first-floor elevation, flood-damage-resistant materials below the flood-protection level, and utility elevation or protection.
    • Manufactured homes must be elevated on a permanent foundation and securely anchored to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement.
    • The cited restrictions apply in the floodplain and do not establish a countywide manufactured-home land-use rule.
    “Manufactured homes must meet the same standards as any other residential building for the elevation of the first floor, use of flood damage-resistant materials below the flood protection level, and elevation or protection of utilities. Manufactured homes must be elevated on a permanent foundation and be securely anchored to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement.”
  • Accessory dwellings · by state lawUnrestricted

    Unincorporated Garland County: no county rule sets this, because Garland County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance.

    • Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits.
    • The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county.
    • The memorandum describes county development ordinances applicable in unincorporated areas; county floodplain, road, environmental, addressing, and other non-zoning controls may still apply.
    “Garland County does not have a zoning program, nor does it restrict the placement of manufactured housing on any un-platted parcel within the County.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Development in Garland County Special Flood Hazard Areas.

    • A permit is not required where the actual construction location does not contact the Special Flood Hazard Area, but the property owner must provide proof to the Floodplain Manager.
    • For development in flood hazard areas, construction materials and methods must minimize flood damage.
    • The ordinance was declared effective upon passage; the source does not provide a legible passage date.
    “A permit shall not be required for development where the actual construction location does not contact the Special Flood Hazard Area. It shall be the burden of the property owner to provide proof to the Floodplain Manager that the construction does not contact the SFHA.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Individuals and developers undertaking construction or development in unincorporated Garland County, including property inside or outside a flood hazard area.
      “The county now requires individuals and developers to apply for construction permits [...] if the construction is outside a flood hazard area [...] may issue an exemption”
  • Permit processPartial

    Garland County floodplain construction-permit process.

    • Applications are made through the Office of Emergency Management, Floodplain Administrator.
    • Questions about the application process are directed to the Floodplain Administrator's Office at 501-767-3911.
    • Outside a flood hazard area, an exemption certificate may be issued.
    • The source does not establish a general countywide building-permit process.
    “Questions concerning the flood permit application process should be directed to the Floodplain Administrator's Office at 501-767-3911.”

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable

    Arkansas residential-contractor licensing for an owner constructing the owner's residence.

    • The exemption concerns residential contractor licensing, not exemption from county floodplain, septic, utility, or other permits.
    • The person must be constructing his or her residence.
    • The exemption does not apply if the person builds more than one residence during a calendar year.

    maximum residences per calendar year: 1 residence (Exemption is unavailable when the person builds more than one residence during any 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;”
    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;”
  • 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
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater systems in Garland County.

    • The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent administers the cited permitting and approval functions.
    • For a city or county with an Authorized Agent, applications are made to that Authorized Agent; otherwise applications are made to the Department.
    “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, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Garland 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation inspection and approval of onsite wastewater systems in Garland County.
      “It shall be the duty of the installer to notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative, when the installation is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the owner or occupant of the property to give the Department, its Authorized Agent, or Designated Representative, free access to the property at reasonable times for the purpose of making the installation 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.”
  • 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 using onsite wastewater systems in Garland County.
      “The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued. The Authorized Agent will retain the original and return the remaining copies to the owner. Except as provided in Section 3.4, a Permit for the construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of an onsite wastewater system or alternate/experimental system shall be refused where public sewer systems are reasonably available or economically feasible”
  • 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)

    Homes and premises where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits the building and available without crossing another person's property.

    • When the stated distance and availability conditions are met, connection to the sanitary sewer is required.
    • Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises under that condition.

    sewer distance from building sewer-exit point: <= 300 feet (sewer must be available without crossing another person's property)

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within three hundred feet (300’) from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Onsite wastewater systems where public sewer service is available or economically feasible.
      “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.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    State and local sales-tax exemption for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment in Arkansas.

    • The utility must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose.
    • Multiple-use meters serving eligible and noneligible structures, facilities, or equipment do not qualify.
    • The farmer must obtain a certificate from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration before the exemption is allowed and provide it to the utility supplier.
    • Qualifying agricultural structures include commercial poultry or livestock facilities, cattle or dairy facilities, and greenhouses used for commercial production.
    • Qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment includes specified cooling, collection, irrigation, pond-pumping, pond-aeration, and holding or sorting-tank equipment used in commercial operations.

    exemption start date: 2014-01-01 · eligible utilities: electricity, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (Must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose) · DFA certificate: true (Required before the exemption is allowed) · water exemption for commercial poultry farming start date: 2021-10-01 (Water must be used exclusively for poultry farming and separately metered)

    “Act 1441 of 2013 provides an exemption from state and local sales taxes for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture and horticulture equipment beginning January 1, 2014. The eligible utility must be separately metered and used only for the purpose of the exemption.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
      “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  • Subdividing landLimited

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

    • Plans must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall onsite-wastewater plan.
    • Unsuitable lots or parcels must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
    • Green or community space must be identified and is not assigned a lot number or considered in approval.
    • The cited source addresses onsite-wastewater subdivision review, not all subdivision or platting requirements.

    subdivision plan review fee minimum: >= 100 USD (One lot; $25 for each following lot, maximum $1,500.)

    “All subdivision plans, which are proposed to utilize standard onsite wastewater systems as a method of wastewater treatment for all or part of the lots or tracts in said subdivision, shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall plan for the utilization of onsite wastewater systems.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats that are boundary surveys creating parcels in Arkansas.
      “Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office [...] Filing is not required [...] for survey plats [...] located in a municipality [...]”
  • Driveway accessRequired

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

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

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

    “A permit shall be obtained from the Department for all access driveways on State Highways.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Basic design-service fees for Arkansas state department projects governed by the Building Authority Division.

    • The schedule is based on total final construction cost, including adjustments by change order or negotiations.
    • For projects less than $50,000 or more than $50,000,000, fees may be negotiated subject to Building Authority Division approval.
    • Specified modifiers apply, including deductions for simple projects and additions for complex projects or projects requiring intensified observation.

    basic fee for construction cost $50,001 to $75,000: 9.25 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $75,001 to $100,000: 9 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $100,001 to $200,000: 8.75 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $1,000,001 to $20,000,000: 6.5 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $42,500,001 to $50,000,000: 4 percent of total final construction cost · fee modifier for simple projects: 1 percentage points minimum deduction · fee modifier for complex projects: 1.5 percentage points maximum addition

    “$50,001 to $75,000 | 9.25%”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas onsite wastewater permit review fees applicable in Garland County.
      “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);”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping at Arkansas state-park campsites.

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

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

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

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental regulation in Garland County.

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 Garland County, Arkansas

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

Garland County scores 62/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid 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 Garland County, Arkansas?

Garland County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Program (via local 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 Garland County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Garland County is allowed: Unincorporated Garland County: no county rule sets this, because Garland County's own reviewed answer confirms it has no county-wide zoning ordinance. Septic, floodplain, subdivision and health rules still apply; cities and towns set their own rules inside their limits. The county memorandum also states that Garland County does not restrict placement of manufactured housing on any unplatted parcel within the county. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Garland County, Arkansas?

Land in Garland County runs about $7,941 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Garland County?

Garland County gets about 55.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 12.1% of years.

How remote is Garland County?

A representative private-land location has about 91,530 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,496,825 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 Garland compares in Arkansas

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