Bolthole Index

Hempstead County, Arkansas

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

80Index Score / 100
#8 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Hempstead County, Arkansas appears not to require a building permit, but ask the County Judge's office before building because no county ordinance or official page confirms that conclusion1. The state building code still applies; inside Hope, the city issues building permits and administers zoning, while septic permits countywide remain with the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent2345.

At a glance

Building permit
Listed as not required for unincorporated land, but confirm with the County Judge because no county rule was located1
City of Hope permits
Required for residential and commercial new construction, additions, remodels and mobile homes3
Zoning
No countywide zoning was identified, but confirm the parcel with the County Judge's office; Hope has municipal zoning64
Septic permits
Construction and operation permits from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent, subject to a narrow large-tract exemption78
Owner-builder
State contractor-license exemption for an owner building one personal residence in a calendar year; not a permit exemption9
RV / tiny home living
Private-land occupancy remains unconfirmed; state health rules govern fee-based parks with three or more spaces1011
Septic soil difficulty
Only 5.1% of county soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field12
Subdivision septic lots
Drip-dispersal designs may allow lots of at least 0.5 acre when the state criteria are met13

Who to call

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Program (Environmental Health)

Statewide onsite-wastewater policy and permit-application review in cooperation with the Environmental Health Specialist in each county health department

501-661-2171

4815 W. Markham Street, Slot 46, Little Rock, AR 72205

Building permits

City of Hope Building Services/Code Enforcement

Building permits, inspections, code enforcement, and planning and zoning inside the City of Hope

870-722-2505

1603 W. 3rd St Hope, AR 71802

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

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

A building permit appears not to be required in unincorporated Hempstead County, but we could not confirm that answer in a county ordinance or direct official statement1. Before ordering plans or materials, give the Hempstead County Judge's office the parcel location and ask whether any county building, floodplain or road approval applies. The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide, but statewide code adoption does not prove that Hempstead County issues a local building permit or performs inspections2.

Inside the City of Hope, building permits cover residential and commercial new construction, additions, remodels and mobile homes3. Hope Building Services handles inspections, and the city has adopted its listed building, residential, plumbing, fuel-gas, mechanical, energy and electrical codes1415. An owner acting as contractor on a personal residence may qualify for the state licensing exemption when building no more than one residence in a calendar year, but that exemption concerns contractor licensure rather than building permits, inspections, code compliance or septic permits9.

Who issues building permits in Hempstead County, Arkansas?

No county building department or county building-permit process could be confirmed for unincorporated Hempstead County1. Start with the Hempstead County Judge's office for an unincorporated parcel and ask specifically about building, private floodplain-development and county-road access requirements; the statewide floodplain rule located applies to state-department projects, not ordinary private development16. Inside Hope, City of Hope Building Services handles building permits, inspections, code enforcement and zoning17.

Hope's municipal authority does not include the statewide septic program. Septic construction and operation permits for Hempstead County addresses come from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent57. The state program works with Environmental Health Specialists in county health departments to review applications18. Septic plans must show driveway and parking dimensions, but that requirement is not a general driveway permit19. A driveway on state-highway right-of-way requires an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit before work begins20.

Does Hempstead County have zoning?

Hempstead County appears to have no countywide zoning, but the county's official materials do not expressly confirm that unincorporated land is unzoned6. Do not assume a rural parcel has no setbacks, minimum dwelling size, height limit or use restriction until the Hempstead County Judge's office answers for that parcel. Arkansas's acreage rules for subdivision lots using onsite wastewater govern septic suitability, not a general county zoning minimum lot size13.

The City of Hope administers municipal zoning within its corporate limits, with lot area, yard, width and height standards in its residential districts4. In Hope's R-5 district, a one-family lot must have at least 6,000 square feet, and structures may not exceed 35 feet or two-and-one-half stories4. Septic approval in Hope still comes through the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent, not city zoning staff5. Arkansas's exemption for work on a nonresidential farm building concerns electrical licensing; it is not a general exemption from zoning, septic, building or fire rules21.

How do septic permits work in Hempstead County?

Hempstead County septic construction and operation permits come from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent5. A designated representative submits the application, plans, specifications and the fee calculated from the EHP-19 chart; obtain the construction permit before work, give the authorized agent at least 24 hours' notice, and obtain an operation permit after inspection and approval2223. A narrow statutory exemption may apply on a tract of at least 10 acres when the field or disposal line is at least 200 feet from the property line, but nuisance, health-hazard and sewer-connection rules still apply8.

Only 5.1% of Hempstead County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the soil and site evaluation an early purchase contingency12. Proposed subdivision lots under three acres face soil-depth criteria, while qualifying drip-dispersal lots must be at least 0.5 acre13. Where both a private well and septic system are proposed, the well must be at least 50 feet from a lot line and 100 feet from the wastewater system24. A sanitary sewer within 300 feet of the building outlet must be used when available without crossing another person's property25.

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

We could not confirm a Hempstead County rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV, tiny-home or manufactured-home occupancy on an ordinary private parcel outside a regulated park. Ask the Hempstead County Judge's office about unincorporated land; inside Hope, ask Building Services about zoning and building approval, while the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent remains responsible for septic approval45. We also could not confirm a county rule for temporary camping on private land outside a regulated park.

Arkansas treats a parcel with three or more fee-based RV spaces as a recreational-vehicle park and describes those stays as typically by night or week; Department of Health plan approval is required10. Tiny houses on wheels in a qualifying fee-based park are treated as mobile homes or RVs depending on plumbing and inspection, but the park rules do not answer occupancy of a single RV or tiny house on an ordinary private parcel1126. In Arkansas municipalities with zoning, manufactured homes must be allowed on individually owned lots in at least one residential district, although local conditions and private covenants may still apply27.

How do you build a home in Hempstead County?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is inside Hope or another municipality, because Hope issues building permits and administers municipal zoning34.
  1. For unincorporated land, ask the Hempstead County Judge's office whether a building permit, private floodplain approval or county-road approval applies; a county building-permit process could not be confirmed1.
  1. Arrange the septic site evaluation before fixing the house location because only 5.1% of county soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field12.
  1. Have the designated representative submit the onsite-wastewater application, plans, specifications and EHP-19-based fee, then obtain the construction permit before work unless the Department confirms the large-tract exemption applies22238.
  1. Obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation driveway permit before work on state-highway right-of-way20.
  1. If acting as your own contractor, document the state licensing exemption but do not treat it as an exemption from building permits, inspections, code compliance or septic approval9.
  1. Give the authorized agent at least 24 hours' notice before septic installation, then obtain inspection approval and the operation permit before use23.

What should you check before buying land in Hempstead County?

Start with wastewater feasibility: only 5.1% of Hempstead County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field12. For a subdivision using onsite wastewater, construction cannot begin on a lot until the Department of Health gives final approval28. A private domestic-well permit was not confirmed; the state well rule located applies only after regulation is implemented in a designated critical groundwater area29.

Verify legal access and identify whether the frontage is a county road or state highway, because state-highway driveways require an Arkansas Department of Transportation driveway permit20. Confirm city limits before relying on the rural building-permit and zoning picture: Hope administers those city functions, while septic construction and operation permits remain under the state health program175. Hempstead County is 64.7% wooded, so inspect clearing needs and timber access30. Typical effective property tax is about 0.5%, with a median annual bill near $503, but obtain a parcel-specific estimate from the assessor and collector3132.

Watch-outs

  • A building permit appears not to be required in unincorporated Hempstead County, but no official county rule confirms the permit, inspection or certificate-of-occupancy answer; ask the County Judge's office before building1.
  • Hope's building permits, inspections and zoning are municipal rules; septic permits for addresses inside and outside Hope remain under the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent31445.
  • Arkansas RV-park rules do not settle whether one person may occupy one RV or tiny house on an ordinary private parcel26.

Sources

  1. Hempstead County, Arkansas (official county site) (2026 county census)
  2. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  3. Building Applications and Forms, quoted and re-checked
  4. Building Services/Code Enforcement, quoted and re-checked
  5. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  6. Hempstead County, Arkansas (official county site) (2026 county census)
  7. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  8. Act 402 and Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  9. Home Improvement Specialty New Application, quoted and re-checked
  10. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  11. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  12. 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
  13. 14 CAR § 21-405. Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Services/Code Enforcement, quoted and re-checked
  15. Building Services/Code Enforcement - Hope, AR, quoted and re-checked
  16. 22 CAR § 111-705. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  17. City of Hope Building Services/Code Enforcement (hopear.gov)
  18. Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Program (Environmental Health) (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  19. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  20. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. 17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions, quoted and re-checked
  22. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  23. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  24. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  25. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  26. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance, quoted and re-checked
  27. Act 624 of 2003 — Affordable Housing Accessibility Act, quoted and re-checked
  28. 14 CAR § 21-405. Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  29. 15 CAR § 21-302. Initiation of regulation, quoted and re-checked
  30. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 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 all 6 of its neighbors, Hempstead County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleHempstead CountyHoward CountyNevada CountyPike CountyLittle River CountyMiller CountySevier County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNot publishedNo
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADHAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Hempstead County in Arkansas

80
County map
Hempstead County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Hempstead County scores

Seclusion71100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency68100% ev.
Admin Boringness85100% ev.
Durability55100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost84100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$127kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$2,902Land / acre
54.1"Annual rain
12.5% of yrsSevere drought
24.5 / yr (+19.3)Mid-century 100°F days
18.3 daysMid-century dry spell
2.65" (+3.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.44×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,059Home insurance / yr
2.6% / yrInsurance growth
0.99%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
17,855People within 30 min
1,125,044People within 2 hr
21,568Radius comparison (15 mi)
26.6People / sq mi
1.6%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
5.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
22,074 acWorkable land screen
64.7%Wooded land
47.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Hempstead 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.

Blevins · Town of Fulton · Hope · Town of McCaskill · Town of McNab · Town of Oakhaven · Town of Ozan · Town of Patmos · Town of Perrytown · Washington

Answers from the rulebook for Hempstead County

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

Hempstead County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Hempstead County has no comprehensive county-wide zoning ordinance or county planning/zoning department; land-use regulation exists only within municipalities like Hope.

    Hempstead County, Arkansas (official county site) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

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

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

    Owner-builders and owners acting as their own home-improvement contractors for residential work in Arkansas, including Hempstead County.

    • A person acting as a residential building contractor in construction of his or her residence is exempt unless he or she builds more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • An owner of a single-family residence acting as his or her own home-improvement contractor on his or her own property is exempt.
    • A project costing no more than $2,000 is exempt, but the exemption does not apply when construction work necessary to complete the project is divided into separate contracts of amounts less than $2,000.
    • The exemption concerns Arkansas residential-contractor licensing requirements and does not establish that a local building permit, inspection, certificate of occupancy, septic approval, or other approval is unnecessary.

    annual residences for residential building contractor exemption: <= 1 residence per calendar year (The exemption does not apply if the person builds more than one residence during a calendar year.) · project cost for small-project exemption: <= 2000 USD (The exemption does not apply if the work is divided into separate contracts of amounts less than $2,000.)

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

    Building-code requirements applicable statewide, including Hempstead County.

    • The official 2022 rulemaking summary states that the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all Arkansas jurisdictions.
    • The same source states that the code includes three volumes: Fire Code, Building Code, and Residential Code, with Arkansas amendments.
    • The source states that the then-current code was the 2012 edition and that the International Codes were amended and adopted effective January 1, 2014.
    • Local jurisdictions may have additional or more stringent rules where authorized; no current Hempstead County adoption ordinance was located.

    effective date stated by source: 2014-01-01 (The source describes the effective date of the International Code amendments and adoption by Arkansas State Police.) · code edition described by source: 2012 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (The source was a 2022 rulemaking summary and may not identify the current 2026 edition.)

    “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building-code requirements applicable statewide in Arkansas, including Hempstead County; this establishes the state code framework but does not establish a Hempstead County building-permit office or county inspection program.
      “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
    • 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.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Subdivision lots proposed for development using Arkansas onsite-wastewater systems.

    • Primary and secondary absorption areas must be sized according to natural soil conditions and Table 1 loading rates.
    • For lots less than three acres, specified seasonal-water-table soil depths apply.
    • Lots less than three acres requiring interceptor drains must include a complete permit submittal.
    • Drip dispersal may be used only when the listed bedrock-depth, flagged-absorption-area, and legal-description criteria are met.
    • Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size must be at least 0.5 acre.
    • Submission must be made to the local health unit.
    • Construction may not begin until final approval by the Department of Health.

    minimum lot size for drip dispersal design: >= 0.5 acre (Only when the criteria in 14 CAR § 21-405(a)(6)(A) are met.) · minimum undisturbed soil depth to brief seasonal water table on lots under 3 acres: >= 13 inches · minimum undisturbed soil depth to adjusted moderate seasonal water table on lots under 3 acres: >= 18 inches · minimum undisturbed soil depth to adjusted long seasonal water table on lots under 3 acres: >= 24 inches

    “Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be five-tenths (0.5) of an acre or larger.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Lots proposed for residential subdivision development using onsite wastewater systems in Arkansas, including Hempstead County
      “Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be five-tenths (0.5) of an acre or larger.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Onsite wastewater systems and individual water wells proposed for lots in Arkansas, including Hempstead County

    • The quoted setback applies when an individual water-well supply and an onsite wastewater system are proposed.
    • Both primary and secondary onsite wastewater systems must also conform to all setback requirements in Section 6.2.
    • The lot must be sized to accommodate the stated well and wastewater-system separation requirements.

    well setback from lot line: >= 50 feet (individual water-well supply with onsite wastewater system) · well setback from onsite wastewater systems: >= 100 feet (from any part of the system on the same lot and systems on adjacent lots)

    “Fifty feet (50’) from any lot line; and One hundred feet (100’) from any part of the onsite wastewater system proposed on the same lot”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    A parcel in Arkansas, including Hempstead County, with three or more recreational-vehicle spaces occupied or intended for occupancy where placement or maintenance services are 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 and approval is at the discretion of the Arkansas Department of Health.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of the park may not begin until Department of Health approval is received.
    • Detailed plans and specifications must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, all buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features.
    • This state rule does not resolve long-term occupancy of a single RV or privately occupied RV spaces without placement or maintenance services for a fee.

    RV spaces: >= 3 spaces (Applies where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee; whether new or existing.) · Department of Health plan approval: required before work begins (Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of a mobile home or recreational vehicle park.)

    “(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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational-vehicle occupancy in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks, including any such park in Hempstead County.
      “(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.”
    • Limited — Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
      “Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

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

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

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

    “three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Tiny houses on wheels used as habitable dwellings in Arkansas fee-based mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks, including any such park in Hempstead County.
      “(17) “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;”
    • 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;”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Placement of manufactured homes on individually owned lots within Arkansas municipalities that have zoning ordinances, including applicable municipalities in Hempstead County.

    • The municipality must have a zoning ordinance.
    • The municipality must allow placement in at least one or more residential districts or zones.
    • Municipalities may impose reasonable conditions including perimeter foundation enclosures, utility connections, building setbacks, side or rear yard offsets, off-street parking, carports, garages, outbuildings, entries, exits, porches, decks, stairs, and conditions applicable to other single-family dwellings in the same district or zone.
    • The Act does not supersede valid covenants or bills of assurance.
    • The Act does not require manufactured homes to be permitted in historic districts.
    “Municipalities that have zoning ordinances shall allow the placement of manufactured homes on individually-owned lots in at least one (1) or more residential districts or zones within the municipality.”
  • Who permits septicState

    Onsite wastewater permitting and approval for Hempstead County systems under Arkansas statewide rules.

    • The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent approves the permit for construction and operation.
    • Where a city or county has an Authorized Agent, that agent acts as the Department's Authorized Agent; where no Authorized Agent has been designated, applications are made to the Department.
    • Applications are submitted through the appropriate local health unit under the statewide program.
    “The Division of Environmental Health Protection of the Department of Health or its authorized agents shall have general supervision and authority over the location, design, construction, installation, and operation of individual sewage disposal systems, and shall be responsible for the administration of this chapter and of the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State — Onsite wastewater permitting and approval in Hempstead County.
      “receive the approval of the Department of Health or its authorized agent”
  • 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems in Hempstead County
      “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. [...] It shall be unlawful for any installer 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 permit holder or installer first notifies the Authorized Agent a minimum of 24 hours prior to the date he/she plans to begin work on said system. Emergency repairs may be undertaken without prior notification to the Authorized Agent provided a permit is obtained within ten working days. [...] A fee shall be levied for the review of Individual Onsite Wastewater Permit Applications as follows: [...] 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); [...] For structures more than four thousand square feet (4,000 sq. ft.), the fee to review a permit application is one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00); [...] For the alteration, repair, or extension of any individual sewage disposal system, the fee to review a permit application is thirty dollars ($30.00).”
    • Limited — Onsite wastewater systems in Hempstead County, Arkansas, under Arkansas Act 402 and Arkansas Department of Health rules.
      “The requirements of this chapter shall not apply [...] ten (10) acres or larger [...] no closer than two hundred feet (200′) to the property line.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems serving residences and other covered premises in Hempstead County under Arkansas statewide requirements.
      “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 Hempstead 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. [...] 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.”
  • 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”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Withdrawal from an existing well or construction of a new well within a designated critical groundwater area after the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission issues an order implementing regulation
      “After an order by the commission implementing regulation”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Premises in Hempstead County where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits the building and is available without crossing another person's property

    • Connection is required when both the 300-foot distance and availability conditions are met.
    • No privies, onsite wastewater systems, or other receptacles for human excreta may be constructed, maintained, or used on such premises.
    • Plumbing must comply with the Arkansas State Plumbing Code.

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

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property. No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises. Plumbing shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the ARKANSAS STATE PLUMBING CODE (see Ark. Code Ann. §§ 17-38-101 et. seq.)”
    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 — State electrical-licensing and Electrical Code Authority Act requirements for construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure.
      “(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) — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, including Hempstead County.
      “The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act [...] shall not apply to the following: [...] Any construction [...] 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)

    Subdivision development in Arkansas when onsite-wastewater systems will be used, including unincorporated Hempstead County.

    • Subdivision submissions must be made to the local health unit using an approved review method.
    • Soil mapping, where used, must be submitted by a professional soil classifier and a high-intensity map is required for standard onsite-wastewater design.
    • Construction of any type may not begin on any lot until the Department of Health gives final approval of the onsite-wastewater submission.
    • The rule concerns onsite-wastewater approval and does not establish that Hempstead County has a general subdivision-plat ordinance.

    maximum soil-map grid: <= 100 feet · maximum distance from property line to outside perimeter grid line: <= 50 feet

    “Submission shall be made to the local health unit utilizing one (1) of the following approved methods. [...] Construction of any type shall not begin upon any lot in the subdivision until final approval of the submission for utilization of onsite wastewater systems within the subdivision has been made by the Department of Health.”
    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 accessLimited

    Onsite wastewater system permit plans for property in Hempstead County.

    • The cited requirement concerns documentation in an onsite wastewater permit application; it does not establish a general county driveway-access permit or road-entrance standard.
    “8. The driveway and parking area dimensions shall be shown.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, reconstruction, modification, or relocation of access driveways on Arkansas State Highway right-of-way, including residential, commercial, and temporary access driveways.
      “A permit shall be obtained from the Department for all access driveways on State Highways.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Development proposed by an Arkansas state department within a mapped hundred-year floodplain or Building Authority Division-designated flood hazard area.
      “When a department proposes to develop property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area, the department shall submit an application for a development permit on a form approved by the Design Review Section.”
  • 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
    • Variable (with conditions) — Arkansas onsite wastewater system permit applications, including applications for property in Hempstead County.
      “The Designated Representative submits a completed Individual Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application (EHP-19) along with detailed plans, product specifications, and required fees. [...] The fee amount is calculated from the chart in the upper right corner of the EHP-19 and marked with a check in the appropriate box.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Construction, installation, modification, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Hempstead County and elsewhere in Arkansas.

    • A valid Permit for Construction must be obtained before construction, alteration, repair, or extension of an onsite wastewater system.
    • A Permit for Operation must be obtained before operation, after inspection and approval by the Department or its Authorized Agent.
    • The installer must notify the Authorized Agent at least 24 hours before beginning work.
    • Emergency repairs may begin without prior notification, but a permit must be obtained within ten working days.
    • Where a city or county has an Authorized Agent, that agent administers the process; otherwise applications are made to the Department.

    installer advance notice: >= 24 hours (Emergency repairs may proceed without prior notification if a permit is obtained within ten working days.) · emergency repair permit deadline: 10 working days

    “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. [...] Emergency repairs may be undertaken without prior notification to the Authorized Agent provided a permit is obtained within ten working days.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas state department development projects located within a hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division-designated flood hazard area.
      “the department shall submit an application for a development permit”
  • 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 dwelling in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks, including any such park in Hempstead County.
      “(8) “Recreational vehicle park” means a parcel of land, for which plans have been approved by the Department of Health, where three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles for transient dwelling purposes, typically by night or week, commonly associated with travel to, at, or near an attraction;”
  • 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 Hempstead County

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

  • Building permitLimited

    Commercial and residential construction, additions, remodels, and mobile homes within the City of Hope.

    • This claim is limited to the City of Hope and does not establish a rule for unincorporated Hempstead County or other municipalities.
    “Use this link to fill out and apply online for building permits (new construction, additions, remodels, and mobile homes) for commercial and residential projects.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction subject to the City of Hope building-services and code-enforcement jurisdiction.

    • The City of Hope page identifies the adopted codes but does not state permit fees, effective dates, or the full applicability and enforcement exceptions.
    • The listed codes include the 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volumes 1, 2, and 3; 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code; 2018 Arkansas Fuel Gas Code; 2021 Arkansas Mechanical Code; 2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction; and 2020 National Electric Code.
    “Current Codes adopted by the City of Hope 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Volume 1 - Fire Volume 2 - Building Volume 3 - Residential 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code 2018 Arkansas Fuel Gas Code 2021 Arkansas Mechanical Code 2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction 2020 National Electric Code”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Construction activity and development within the City of Hope.

    • This claim is limited to the City of Hope and does not establish an inspection rule for unincorporated Hempstead County or other municipalities.
    “Building Services handles all building permitting and inspections for construction activity and development.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land development and zoning within the corporate limits of the City of Hope, Arkansas, in Hempstead County.

    • The City of Hope administers planning and zoning functions through its Building Services department and Planning and Zoning Commission.
    • In the R-5 Residential Use District, multifamily dwellings exceeding 8 units per detached structure are permitted only on review by the Planning Commission.
    • The cited R-5 provisions include minimum lot areas, yard setbacks, lot-width requirements, height limits, and mobile-home conditions.

    maximum multifamily dwellings per detached structure without Planning Commission review: <= 8 units (More than 8 units per detached structure is permitted on review by the Planning Commission.) · minimum one-family lot area: >= 6000 square feet (For the first unit in the R-5 district.) · minimum two-family lot area: >= 7500 square feet · maximum structure height: <= 35 feet (Also limited to two-and-one-half stories.) · front yard depth: >= 25 feet (Or 50 feet from the center line of the existing right-of-way, whichever is greater.) · side yard width: >= 7.5 feet (From each adjacent property line.) · rear yard depth: >= 10 feet

    “The City of Hope adopted by Ordinance No. 1032 a Land Development Code for the City of Hope, Arkansas;”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning and related land-use approvals within the City of Hope, Arkansas, in Hempstead County.
      “Zoning District Descriptions C-1 Commercial District Zone C-2 Commercial District Zone C-3 Commercial District Zone C-4 Commercial District Zone I-1 Heavy Industrial District Zone I-2 Light Industrial District Zone R-1 Residential Use District Zone R-2 Residential Use District Zone R-3 Residential Use District Zone R-4 Residential Use District Zone R-5 Residential Use District Zone”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use zoning within the City of Hope, Arkansas, in Hempstead County.
      “WHEREAS, the City of Hope, Arkansas previously adopted by Ordinance No. 1032 a Land Development Code for the City of Hope; and WHEREAS, as part of the Land Development Code adopted by the City of Hope, Article 7-1 paragraph A establishes the Board of Zoning Adjustments consisting of 3 members of the Planning and Zoning Commission;”
    • Present (with conditions) — Land development and zoning within the City of Hope, Arkansas, including its corporate limits.
      “RESIDENTIAL USE DISTRICT (R-5) [...] B. Uses permitted on review by the Planning Commission:”
    • Present — Zoning and rezoning within the City of Hope, Hempstead County, Arkansas.
      “SECTION 1: The following described real property in the City of Hope, Arkansas, to-wit: Pine Park Business and Industrial Addition Block 1, Lots 7 & 8 Is hereby rezoned from its current zoning classification of I-1 to the new zoning classification of C-2, and the zoning map of the City of Hope, Arkansas, shall be amended to reflect said changes.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential Use District R-5 within the corporate limits of the City of Hope, Arkansas, in Hempstead County.

    • The cited standards apply to the City of Hope's R-5 Residential Use District.
    • One-family lots require a minimum of 6,000 square feet for the first unit.
    • Two-family lots require a minimum of 7,500 square feet.
    • For multi-family dwellings, the ordinance requires 1,500 square feet of unobstructed open space for each dwelling unit.
    • The ordinance separately states mobile-home lot requirements, including a minimum lot width of 50 feet.

    one-family minimum lot area: >= 6000 square feet (for first unit) · two-family minimum lot area: >= 7500 square feet · multi-family unobstructed open space: per 1500 square feet per dwelling unit · mobile-home minimum lot width: >= 50 feet

    “One-family: Minimum 6,000 square feet for first unit.”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Structures in the City of Hope's R-5 Residential Use District, Hempstead County, Arkansas.

    • The maximum is two-and-one-half stories and no more than 35 feet overall height.
    • Places of public assembly have a separate maximum of two stories and 35 feet for the portion used for assembly or offices.
    • The cited ordinance was passed and approved April 21, 1998.

    maximum structure height: <= 35 feet overall height (maximum two-and-one-half stories) · maximum stories: <= 2.5 stories · public assembly maximum height: <= 35 feet (maximum two stories for the portion used for assembly or offices)

    “Maximum height of a structure shall be two— and-one—half stories, not to exceed 35 feet in overall height.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Hempstead County, especially unincorporated areas.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size for residential dwellings in unincorporated Hempstead County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage limits in unincorporated Hempstead County.
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling units on private land in Hempstead County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in Hempstead County, including unincorporated areas.

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 Hempstead County, Arkansas

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

Hempstead County scores 80/100 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 Hempstead County, Arkansas?

Hempstead 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, via 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 Hempstead County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Hempstead County is limited to specific cases: Statewide rule. A parcel in Arkansas, including Hempstead County, with three or more recreational-vehicle spaces occupied or intended for occupancy where placement or maintenance services are 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. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Hempstead County, Arkansas?

Land in Hempstead County runs about $2,902 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Hempstead County?

Hempstead County gets about 54.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 12.5% of years.

How remote is Hempstead County?

A representative private-land location has about 17,855 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,125,044 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 Hempstead compares in Arkansas

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