Howard County, AR: No Building Permit, No Zoning

A residential building permit appears not to be required in unincorporated Howard County, Arkansas, but the county's own permit and inspection procedures could not be confirmed¹. County zoning also could not be confirmed, so ask the county offices before assuming a parcel has no local rules². The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code is the statewide fire and building code, including in Howard County³, and septic permits go through the Arkansas Department of Health, not the county⁴.

At a glance

Building permit: Appears not required in unincorporated areas; confirm for the parcel¹
Zoning: No county zoning ordinance was confirmed²
Septic authority: State-permitted through the Arkansas Department of Health⁴
Owner-builder exemption: Yes, for one owner-built residence per calendar year⁵⁶
Ag buildings: Nonresidential farm buildings are exempt from state electrical-contractor licensing⁷
Effective property tax rate: 0.5% of assessed value, about $708/yr on the median bill⁸⁹
Bolthole Index score: 77.25 out of 100¹⁰

Who to call

Septic permits

Howard County Local Health Unit - Nashville

The Arkansas Department of Health's local health unit serving Howard County; onsite wastewater (septic) installers submit required documentation to the local health unit and the system cannot be used until the Department issues a Permit for Operation.

(870) 845-2208

201 E Hempstead, Suite 2, Nashville, AR 71852

Also useful

Howard County government offices

General Howard County government contact, listed on the state's official county directory alongside only the Assessor and Collector; no separate building, zoning, floodplain, or road department is listed for the county.

870-845-7500

421 North Main Street, Nashville, AR 72152

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Howard 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 Howard County, Arkansas?

A residential building permit appears not to be required in unincorporated Howard County¹. The available county listing does not show a building or permit department, but we could not confirm Howard County's permit or inspection procedures in a county ordinance or department publication¹. Ask the Howard County government offices to confirm the answer for your parcel and project before work begins¹¹. The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide as the fire and building code for every Arkansas jurisdiction, including Howard County, so the apparent absence of a county permit process is not an exemption from code compliance³. Under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, building permits are required only where a jurisdiction has established its own building department, and nothing we found shows that Howard County has done so¹². Arkansas's building codes are mandatory statewide minimums that apply even in areas where no permit or inspection is required¹³. For land inside an incorporated town, ask that municipality directly because its permit process can differ from the unincorporated county.

Who handles building permits and land questions in Howard County?

No dedicated Howard County building, planning, or zoning office is listed, but that office listing alone does not settle every permit or inspection question¹². Start with the Howard County government offices at 870-845-7500, 421 North Main Street in Nashville, and ask who handles the specific parcel and project¹¹. Septic permitting is separate: the Arkansas Department of Health handles onsite wastewater, and the Howard County Local Health Unit in Nashville can be reached at (870) 845-2208, 201 E Hempstead, Suite 2⁴¹⁴. For a large land-disturbing project, Arkansas's environmental permitting process may also require a signed notice of intent, stormwater pollution prevention plan, and fee; most general stormwater permits can be submitted through the state environmental agency's online portal¹⁵.

Does Howard County have zoning?

Howard County appears not to have county zoning, but we could not confirm that conclusion in a published county ordinance or an express county statement². Arkansas law lets a county planning board prepare a zoning ordinance, with a map and text, for all or part of the unincorporated area, so the county's answer needs to come from the county itself¹⁶. The absence of a listed planning or zoning office is useful evidence, not permission for a particular use². County rules for setbacks, minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, lot coverage, building height, subdivisions, accessory dwellings, and short-term rentals could not be confirmed. Ask the Howard County government offices about each issue that matters to your project before relying on a seller's description of land as unrestricted¹¹. Land inside an incorporated town may be governed by municipal rules even when the surrounding unincorporated county has no confirmed zoning program.

How do septic permits work in Howard County?

Septic permits in Howard County come from the Arkansas Department of Health, not from the county⁴. A completed onsite wastewater permit application with detailed plans must be approved before a building or residence is constructed¹⁷. If a city or county has an Authorized Agent for onsite wastewater, that agent acts for the Department; otherwise, applications go straight to the Department¹⁸. The Department's rule requires a Permit for Construction before any work starts, the installer must notify the Authorized Agent at least 24 hours before beginning, and construction must begin within one year of issuance or the permit must be revalidated¹⁹. A permit may also be refused where a public sewer is reasonably available¹⁹. In practice, the installer notifies the local health unit when the system is ready and must submit the required documentation to the local health unit within five days of installation²⁰. It is unlawful to start using a septic system before it has been inspected and approved and the owner has obtained a Permit for Operation²⁰. Soils matter here more than the paperwork does: only 9.7% of Howard County's soils have no severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so most building sites in the county should expect an engineered system, a pricier design, or a percolation test before you can be confident a standard drain field will work²¹. If your future home's sewer line would exit the building within 300 feet of an accessible public sewer on your property or an adjoining street, Arkansas rules require connecting to that public sewer instead of installing a septic system²².

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

We could not confirm whether Howard County allows someone to camp temporarily or live in a single RV or tiny home on a private unincorporated parcel. Arkansas's statewide RV-park rule does not answer that question: it covers transient stays in a Department of Health-approved park with three or more RV spaces, typically occupied by the night or week²³. A parcel with three or more spaces for RVs, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee, is regulated as a mobile-home or RV park and must comply with state health rules²⁴. Plans must receive Arkansas Department of Health approval before construction, remodeling, or alteration begins²⁴. Under those park rules, a tiny house on wheels is treated as a mobile home when plumbed and inspected under the Arkansas Plumbing Code and as an RV when it is not²⁵. Ask the Howard County government offices about one-parcel occupancy before buying or moving a unit onsite¹¹.

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

Confirm whether the parcel is inside an incorporated town or in unincorporated Howard County, then ask the responsible local office to confirm permit and inspection requirements¹¹¹.
Design to the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, which applies statewide as the fire and building code for every Arkansas jurisdiction²⁶.
If acting as your own contractor, use the state licensing exemption only for your own residence and no more than one owner-built residence in a calendar year⁶.
Resolve wastewater early through the Howard County Local Health Unit, and do not use the septic system before inspection, approval, and issuance of the Permit for Operation¹⁴²⁰.
Obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit before work on a driveway connecting to a state highway²⁷.
For qualifying construction disturbance of five acres or more, check the state large-site stormwater permit; the published annual fee is $200²⁸.

What to check before you buy land in Howard County

Water: public and semi-public wells need written Arkansas Department of Health approval before construction, but we could not confirm whether a private individual domestic well needs a construction permit in Howard County²⁹. Soils: only 9.7% of the county's soils have no severe limitation for a conventional septic drain field, so get a site evaluation before assuming a standard system will work²¹. Flood: Howard County's floodplain permit rules and administrator could not be confirmed, so ask the county offices who handles floodplain development for the parcel¹¹. Access: a driveway onto a state highway needs an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit before work begins, while county-road driveway rules remain unconfirmed²⁷. Taxes: Howard County's effective property tax rate is about 0.5%, and the median annual bill is about $708⁸⁹.

Watch-outs

Howard County zoning, setbacks, minimum dwelling size, and subdivision rules could not be confirmed; ask the county offices before relying on a parcel being described as unrestricted¹¹.
A state rule requires advance approval for public and semi-public wells but does not answer whether a private domestic well needs a construction permit; ask the Arkansas Department of Health²⁹.
Most of Howard County's soils have some limitation for a conventional septic drain field, so plan and budget for site evaluation before you count on a standard system²¹.

Sources

Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

Compared with neighboring counties

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

Rule	Howard County	Sevier County	Pike County	Hempstead County	Little River County	Polk County	Montgomery County
Building permit	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required
County zoning	No	No	No	No	No	No	Not published
Septic permits	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	ADH	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health

How Howard County scores

Seclusion84100% ev.

Self-Sufficiency63100% ev.

Admin Boringness82100% ev.

Durability46100% ev.

Property Autonomy47100% ev.

Carry Cost82100% 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 →

$164kTypical home

0.5%Property tax

$4,175Land / acre

55.8"Annual rain

12.8% of yrsSevere drought

22.1 / yr (+17.7)Mid-century 100°F days

17.8 daysMid-century dry spell

2.8" (+4%)Mid-century 1-day rain

1.42×Wildfire change factor

100%Forward climate coverage

$1,686Home insurance / yr

2.4% / yrInsurance growth

0.9%Nonrenewal rate

county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis

5,924People within 30 min

560,928People within 2 hr

15,235Radius comparison (15 mi)

21.3People / sq mi

3.4%Federal land

90.5%Land at 15% slope or less

9.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)

34,605 acWorkable land screen

69.8%Wooded land

31 tonsBiomass / forest ac

61.7°FAvg temp

Answers from the rulebook for Howard County

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

Howard County rules

County-wide zoningAbsent
Inferred: no county planning board or zoning office is listed; Arkansas counties are zoned only where a planning board adopts zoning, which was not found for Howard County.
Arkansas.gov - Howard County ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Arkansas rules that apply here

Building permitLimited
Construction subject to the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.
- The source does not impose a single statewide building-permit requirement for all private residential and commercial construction.
- Local governments may establish prior plan approval, building-permit requirements, and construction inspections.
- Counties, cities, or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code for new construction, additions, and renovations.
- The cited document is the 2014 Arkansas Energy Code; current Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applicability should be confirmed separately.
“A local government may exercise other administrative and enforcement procedures that it deems necessary to affect the purposes of this Code, including, but not limited to, prior plan approval, building permit requirements, and inspections during the course of construction.”
2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — New construction or remodeling within an Arkansas jurisdiction that has established a building department under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code.
  “within the corporate limits of the jurisdiction for new construction or remodeling shall be required in accordance with Vol. II, Section 105 of the Code.”
  2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Rules ↗Re-checked Oct 10, 2026
- Limited — Construction subject to the Arkansas Building Code statewide minimums, including rural and unincorporated areas.
  “They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
State residential-contractor licensing exemptions for owners constructing or improving their own residences or property in Howard County and elsewhere in Arkansas.
- 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.
- The exemption is from state residential-contractor licensing requirements; it does not establish exemption from building codes, permits, inspections, or other state or local requirements.
maximum owner-built residences per calendar year: <= 1 residence (The exemption does not apply if the person builds more than one residence during any calendar year.) · small-project licensing threshold: <= 2000 USD (The statute separately provides that the exemption does not apply when construction work is divided into separate contracts of amounts less than $2,000.)
“The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property;”
Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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;”
  Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules and Statutes ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Building code adoptedPartial
State projects in Arkansas.
- The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.
- Arkansas laws and the applicable subchapter take precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed its requirements.
- All project designs must comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code.
- Other codes, rules, or standards may apply to a specific project.
- The department and design professional are responsible for determining all applicable codes for each specific project.
“The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.”
22 CAR § 111-407. Building codes adopted ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
5 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Adopted — Building-code requirements applicable statewide, including Howard County, Arkansas.
  “The International Codes were amended and adopted, effective January 1, 2014, by the Arkansas State Police. The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
  2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code — Summary Agenda ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
- Adopted — Building-code requirements applicable in Howard County as an Arkansas jurisdiction.
  “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
  2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code — Arkansas Legislative Council summary ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
- Adopted (with conditions) — The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code as the statewide fire and building code overlay applicable in Howard County and other Arkansas jurisdictions.
  “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
  Summary Agenda - 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
- Adopted (with conditions) — New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures throughout Arkansas, under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including Volume II for building-code requirements and Volume III for residential-code requirements.
  “Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state shall only adopt and enforce the provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition. [...] The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the International Building Code Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the International Building Code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, shall be made in accordance therewith.”
  2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- Adopted (with conditions) — State projects in Arkansas subject to the Building Authority Division design-review rules.
  “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office. Arkansas laws and this subchapter shall have precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed the requirements of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. All project designs shall comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. Other codes, rules, or standards may be applicable to a specific project. It is the department’s and design professional’s responsibility to determine all applicable codes for each specific project.”
  22 CAR § 111-407. Building codes adopted ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
InspectionsRequired
Construction or work subject to the Arkansas Energy Code in a county or municipality that has adopted the code and conducts final inspections as part of normal operations.
- Inspection is limited to construction or work that must comply with the Arkansas Energy Code.
- Inspection may be performed by the Arkansas Energy Office, its agent, or the code official.
- A county or municipality that has adopted the code and conducts final inspections as part of normal operations must perform final inspection and approval when buildings are completed and ready for occupancy.
- The source states that compliance with the code by builders constructing single-family buildings for their own occupancy is voluntary.
- The source states an effective date of October 1, 2004 for residential buildings and January 1, 2013 for the specified commercial standards.
residential code effective date: 2004-10-01 · specified commercial standards effective date: 2013-01-01
“Construction or work that must comply with this Code shall be subject to inspection by the Arkansas Energy Office or its agent, or by the code official. Code officials within a county or municipality who have adopted this Code and conduct final inspections as a part of their normal operations shall perform a final inspection and approval for buildings when completed and ready for occupancy.”
Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments 2011 ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Building-code compliance and inspections for construction in Arkansas, including rural and unincorporated areas of Howard County.
  “Arkansas Building Codes are mandatory statewide minimums. They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  Arkansas Home Improvement New Application and Test Information ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
- Limited — Construction subject to Arkansas Building Code compliance and any applicable inspection regime.
  “areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- Required — Construction or work that must comply with the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.
  “Construction or work that must comply with this Code shall be subject to inspection by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission - Energy Office or its agent, or by the code official.”
  2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Certificate of occupancyLimited
Open-enrollment public charter schools commencing student operations in a new or renovated facility anywhere in Arkansas.
- Before commencing operations with students, the school must obtain one of three alternative approvals for the new construction or renovation.
- The alternatives are: a certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official and approved by the state fire marshal; a certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or a certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.
- A certificate of occupancy is therefore not independently mandatory when one of the two listed alternative approvals is obtained.
“An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
6 CAR § 31-425. Charter school facilities ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — New or renovated facilities used by open-enrollment public charter schools in Arkansas, including any such facility located in Howard County.
  “An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
  6 CAR § 31-425. Charter school facilities ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
- Limited — State of Arkansas construction projects administered by a state owner or agency.
  “Certificates of Occupancy are not issued by any one State Agency for State projects. The responsibility therefore rests with the Owner/Agency of the project.”
  DBA Project Closeout Guide ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- Limited — Buildings subject to the Arkansas Energy Code when located in a county or municipality that has adopted the Code and conducts final inspections as part of normal operations.
  “An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
  2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Living in an RVLimited
Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
- The rule applies when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing.
- The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR Part 138.
- The owner or operator is responsible for compliance.
- Waivers or exceptions are considered case by case and approval is at the Department of Health's discretion.
- Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of a mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park requires prior submission and department approval.
- Detailed plans must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features.
minimum spaces triggering park regulation: >= 3 spaces (Placement or maintenance services, or both, must be provided for a fee.)
“Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Recreational-vehicle park occupancy and development in Howard County under Arkansas statewide health rules.
  “Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
  20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Tiny homesLimited
Occupancy of tiny houses on wheels in Arkansas parcels operating as mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks with three or more paid spaces.
- The rule expressly includes tiny houses on wheels among spaces triggering mobile-home or recreational-vehicle-park regulation.
- Placement or maintenance services, or both, must be provided for a fee.
- The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR Part 138.
- The owner or operator is responsible for compliance.
- Waivers or exceptions are considered case by case at the discretion of the Arkansas Department of Health.
- Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of the park requires prior submission and Department approval.
- Detailed plans and specifications must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features.
- The rule does not establish a general statewide authorization or prohibition for a single tiny house on wheels outside a qualifying park.
minimum qualifying spaces: >= 3 spaces (the spaces must be occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes)
“three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Tiny houses on wheels used in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks, including Howard County.
  ““Tiny house on wheels” means a structure intended as a habitable dwelling for one (1) or more individuals which, for the purposes of this part, shall be considered a: (A) Mobile home, if plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code, 17 CAR pt. 65; or (B) Recreational vehicle, if not plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code;”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
- Limited — Occupancy of tiny houses on wheels in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
  ““Tiny house on wheels” means a structure intended as a habitable dwelling for one (1) or more individuals which, for the purposes of this part, shall be considered a: (A) Mobile home, if plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code, 17 CAR pt. 65; or (B) Recreational vehicle, if not plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code;”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Who permits septicState
Onsite wastewater systems in Howard County, including construction and operation permitting.
- For cities or counties with an Authorized Agent, the Authorized Agent acts for the Arkansas Department of Health.
- If no Authorized Agent has been designated for the city or county, applications must be made to the Arkansas Department of Health.
“For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department. In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas.
- A completed permit application and detailed plans must be approved before construction of a building or residence.
- Construction, installation, or modification requires permits for construction and operation before work begins.
- A permit may be refused where public sewer is reasonably available or economically feasible, subject to the emergency-repair exception.
- Emergency repairs may proceed without prior permit only if a permit is obtained within 10 working days.
- Applications are made to the Department or its Authorized Agent; where no local Authorized Agent is designated, applications are made to the Department.
- Construction must begin within one year after issuance or the permit must be revalidated.
- The rule is effective September 5, 2024.
public sewer connection distance: <= 300 feet (when available and connection can be made without crossing another person's property) · emergency repair permit deadline: 10 working days (after repairs are made) · permit review fee for structures 1,500 square feet or less: 30 USD · permit review fee for structures over 1,500 and up to 2,000 square feet: 45 USD · permit review fee for structures over 2,000 and up to 3,000 square feet: 90 USD · permit review fee for structures over 3,000 and up to 4,000 square feet: 120 USD · permit review fee for structures over 4,000 square feet: 150 USD · alteration, repair, or extension permit review fee: 30 USD
“A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or residence. [...] Permit requirement. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite wastewater system, owned by any other person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency until the owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems serving property in Howard County, Arkansas.
  “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained [...] prior to the construction, installation or modification of the Onsite Wastewater System.”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 10, 2026
Septic inspectionRequired
Operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas after installation or construction.
- The system must be inspected and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before operation.
- The owner must obtain a Permit for Operation before the system is used.
- The installer must notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative when the installation is ready for inspection.
- The owner or occupant must provide free access at reasonable times for inspection.
- The installer must submit required installation documentation to the local health unit within five days.
- The inspection may be performed by the Authorized Agent or, with the Authorized Agent's approval, by the Designated Representative.
installer documentation deadline: 5 days (after installation pursuant to the approved permit)
“It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent. [...] Within five (5) days, the installer shall submit the required documentation to the local health unit that the system has been installed pursuant to the approved permit. [...] After approval of the inspection, the Authorized Agent will approve and issue a Permit for Operation. The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Operation of onsite wastewater systems in Howard County after installation.
  “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.”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)
Use of composting or incinerating toilets as components of an Arkansas onsite wastewater system.
- Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department may be used.
- The devices must be evaluated by an ANSI-approved laboratory under NSF Standard 41.
- Wastewater other than urine and feces must be renovated or disposed of under Sections 8 or 9 of the rule.
- Stabilized compost must be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary landfill.
- The system remains subject to applicable onsite wastewater permitting and approval requirements.
“Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Well permitLimited
Public and semi-public water-system wells in Howard County.
- The well must comply with Department of Health rules.
- Written Department of Health approval is required before construction.
- If uncertain whether the well is public or semi-public, the well contractor must obtain a written Department determination before construction.
“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.”
17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Wells serving public and semi-public water systems in Arkansas.
  “Wells for public and semi-public water systems shall be located, designed, and constructed in accordance with the respective rules of the Department of Health and shall have written approval from the department prior to the start of construction. If uncertain that a well is public or semi-public, the well contractor shall obtain a written determination from the department prior to construction.”
  17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)
Homes and businesses in Howard County where the building sewer exit is within 300 feet of accessible public sewer on the owner's property or an adjacent street or alley.
- Connection is required only when public sewer access is within 300 feet and located on the owner's property or an adjacent street or alley.
- The connection must be capable of being made without crossing another person's property.
- Plumbing fixtures must comply with the Arkansas Plumbing Code.
distance from building sewer exit to public sewer access: <= 300 feet (Access must be on the owner's property or an adjacent street or alley.)
“Connection to a public sewer system is required of all homes and businesses when the point where the sewer exits the building is located within three hundred feet (300’) of access to the public sewer located on the owner’s property or an adjacent street or alley (Arkansas Code § 14-235-304).”
codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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.”
  codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Agricultural exemptionConditional
State and local sales-tax exemption for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment in Arkansas.
- The utility must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose.
- Multiple-use meters serving eligible and noneligible structures, facilities, or equipment do not qualify.
- The farmer must obtain a certificate from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration before the exemption is allowed and provide it to the utility supplier.
- Qualifying agricultural structures include commercial poultry or livestock facilities, cattle or dairy facilities, and greenhouses used for commercial production.
- Qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment includes specified cooling, collection, irrigation, pond-pumping, pond-aeration, and holding or sorting-tank equipment used in commercial operations.
exemption start date: 2014-01-01 · eligible utilities: electricity, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (Must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose) · DFA certificate: true (Required before the exemption is allowed) · water exemption for commercial poultry farming start date: 2021-10-01 (Water must be used exclusively for poultry farming and separately metered)
“Act 1441 of 2013 provides an exemption from state and local sales taxes for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture and horticulture equipment beginning January 1, 2014. The eligible utility must be separately metered and used only for the purpose of the exemption.”
Farm Utility Exemption Notice and Agricultural, Aquaculture and Horticulture Utility Exemption Application ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Available (with conditions) — State electrical-contractor licensing requirements for construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of nonresidential farm buildings or structures, including in Howard County.
  “(a) The licensing requirements of Arkansas Code § 17-28-101 et seq. shall not apply to the following: [...] (4) The construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
- Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
  “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision plats that are boundary surveys creating parcels in Arkansas.
- The plat must be filed with the State Surveyor's office after any recording requirements imposed by city or county government.
- Filing is not required, but may be submitted, for survey plats of subdivided property located in a municipality where the property has previously been surveyed and a plat filed.
plat distribution deadline: 30 days after completion
“Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office [...] Filing is not required [...] for survey plats [...] located in a municipality [...]”
codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Driveway accessRequired
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.”
Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Building in a floodplainRequired
Development by an Arkansas state department on property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area.
- The rule applies to a state department proposing the development, not generally to all private or local development statewide.
- The department must submit an application on a form approved by the Design Review Section.
- The application must include the application number, date, department or property owner, site address or legal description, development type, brief description, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, attachment acknowledgment, and applicant contact/signature information.
- Supporting attachments should include the FEMA map, copies of other regulatory permits such as Clean Water Act sections 401 and 404 permits, elevation certificates, a certification of no increase in base flood elevation or no-rise certificate, a flood-proofing certificate, certifications for water supply, sanitary sewer, and on-site waste disposal systems, and notification of watercourse alteration or relocation.
- The Design Review Section reviews and approves or disapproves the application; if approved, the floodplain administrator issues a development permit for the design phase.
- The permit must be posted during construction; the site is reviewed before final acceptance; and noncompliant work requires correction or may be designated a nonconforming use site.
- For riverine watercourse alteration or relocation, the department must notify the division, adjacent communities, and the state NFIP Coordinator at the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission before the alteration or relocation, submit copies to the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, maintain flood-carrying capacity, and provide an engineering study of before-and-after conditions prepared by a registered professional engineer.
- For structures and equipment pads under the state rule, elevation requirements vary by FEMA-map and base-flood-elevation availability: two feet above adjacent grade where no FEMA map exists; two feet above the Building Authority Division base flood elevation where no nearby FEMA base flood elevation data exists; and one foot above the accepted or mapped base flood elevation in the circumstances specified by 22 CAR § 111-708.
minimum elevation where no FEMA map exists and site is flood-prone: 2 feet above adjacent grade · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists but no base flood elevation data is provided within 500 feet: 2 feet above the Building Authority Division-established base flood elevation · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists, no site base flood elevation is provided, and a base flood elevation is available within 500 feet or from another authoritative source: 1 foot above the base flood elevation accepted by the division · minimum elevation where FEMA map provides a base flood elevation at the site: 1 foot above the elevation shown on the map in the flood insurance study, if available, or as interpolated between map elevations
“When a department proposes to develop property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area, the department shall submit an application for a development permit on a form approved by the Design Review Section.”
22 CAR § 111-705. Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Construction stormwater permit fees administered by the Arkansas Division of Environmental Quality and applicable to qualifying construction activity in Howard County.
- The cited large-site permit applies to sites of 5 acres or more.
- The ARR150000 permit expires October 31, 2026.
- A renewal permit is identified as effective November 1, 2026.
- Application fees must be submitted before the application is received.
- Annual fees are billed through the SEEK system.
- The page states an annual fee of $200 for ARR150000 Large Site.
site area threshold: >= 5 acres · annual fee: 200 USD (ARR150000 Large Site) · permit expiration: 2026-10-31 · renewal effective date: 2026-11-01
“Permit: ARR150000 Large Site (5 Acres or More) [...] Expires: October 31, 2026 [...] Annual Fee: $200 [...] Renewal Permit Effective on November 1, 2026”
General Stormwater NPDES Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Published (with conditions) — Basic design-service fees for Arkansas state department projects governed by the Building Authority Division.
  “$50,001 to $75,000 | 9.25%”
  22 CAR § 111-212. Design services fee schedule ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Arkansas state department development projects located within a hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division-designated flood hazard area.
- The application is submitted on a Design Review Section-approved form.
- The application must identify the site, development type, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, attachments, and applicant contact and signature information.
- Supporting materials may include FEMA maps, other regulatory permits, elevation certificates, no-rise certification, flood-proofing certification, utility or onsite-waste-disposal certification, and watercourse-alteration notification.
- The Design Review Section reviews and approves or disapproves the application; additional information may be requested.
- If approved, the floodplain administrator issues a design-phase development permit; the permit must be posted during construction, followed by compliance review before final acceptance.
permit application timing: before development of covered property · appeal or review completion point: prior to final acceptance
“the department shall submit an application for a development permit”
22 CAR § 111-705. Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Published (with conditions) — Arkansas DEQ environmental permit process applicable to qualifying activities in Howard County.
  “When applicable, send a completed and signed NOI, a completed Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), and permit fee”
  General Stormwater NPDES Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Campground & park staysLimited
Camping at Arkansas state-park campsites.
- Campsites are limited to eight persons, excluding day-use guests, and one camping unit consisting of no more than two structures.
- Registration at the park office and payment of the camping fee are required before campers are considered registered.
- At least one adult age eighteen or older must register for and occupy the campsite during the entire registration period, with exceptions for scout troops, camping groups, or multiple family groups when sufficient adult supervision is provided.
- Registration must occur at the park office on the day of arrival, and campers must occupy the site by the time the visitor information center closes.
- Campsite occupancy is limited to fourteen days within a thirty-day period in the same park.
- A seven-day extension may be granted by the Park Superintendent from April through October when campgrounds are not at capacity.
- Additional extensions require approval by the Director of the State Parks Division for health problems, relocation, or job reassignment; longer extensions may be granted by Park Superintendents from November through March.
- Campers may not move between campsites in the same park to evade the limits, because permanent or semi-permanent residence is not permitted in a state park.
- All vehicles and trailers must be parked on hard surfaces or designated sites.
- State park camping areas are fee areas for registered campers only.
- The rule addresses state-park campsites and does not establish a statewide rule for camping on private land or land outside state parks.
maximum persons per campsite: 8 persons (excluding day-use guests) · maximum camping units per campsite: 1 unit (the unit may consist of no more than two structures) · maximum occupancy: <= 14 days per 30-day period (seven-day extensions and other stated extensions may apply)
“Campers may not occupy campsites within the same park in excess of fourteen (14) days within a thirty-day period.”
22 CAR § 50-108. Camping rules, fee collection, registration, and reservations ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Temporary camping or transient dwelling in a recreational-vehicle park in Howard County under Arkansas statewide health rules.
  ““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;”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
county zoning authorityGeneral
Arkansas counties may establish zoning ordinances for all or part of their unincorporated areas through a county planning board.
- The county planning board may prepare or cause preparation of the ordinance.
- The ordinance must include both a map and text.
- Permitted subjects include building location, height, bulk, stories, size, open space, lot coverage, population density and distribution, and uses of land, buildings, and structures.
- The ordinance may require off-street parking and loading.
- The ordinance may provide for compatible-use districts, large-scale unified development, elimination of nonconforming uses, and other matters necessary to county health, safety, and general welfare.
- The ordinance must designate districts or zones for all or part of the unincorporated area.
- Regulations must be uniform throughout each district or zone.
- The ordinance must allow and regulate home-based work as provided in Arkansas Code § 14-1-104.
“The county planning board shall have authority to prepare, or to cause to be prepared, a zoning ordinance for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county, which ordinance shall include both a map and a text.”
House Bill 2452 — County planning boards and zoning boards of adjustment ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- General — Arkansas county planning boards adopting zoning ordinances for all or part of a county's unincorporated area.
  “The county planning board shall have authority to prepare, or to cause to be prepared, a zoning ordinance for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county, which ordinance shall include both a map and a text.”
  arkleg.state.ar.us ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026

Still unanswered

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

Local zoning — Aggregate of municipal and other local zoning in Howard County, including Nashville and Dierks.
Zoning districts — Zoning districts and district regulations in Howard County, Arkansas, including any applicable incorporated-area rules.
Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size requirements in Howard County and its municipalities.
Minimum lot size — Minimum lot sizes in Howard County and its municipalities.
Setbacks — Building setbacks in Howard County and its municipalities.

4 more unanswered

Lot coverage
Building height
Accessory dwellings
Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Howard County, Arkansas

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

Howard County scores 77/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 5,924 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

Howard 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 (Environmental Health). 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 Howard County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Howard County is limited to specific cases: Statewide rule. Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138. The rule applies when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing. The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR Part 138. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Howard County, Arkansas?

Land in Howard County runs about $4,175 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Howard County?

Howard County gets about 55.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 12.8% of years.

How remote is Howard County?

A representative private-land location has about 5,924 people within a 30-minute drive and 560,928 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

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

At a glance

Who to call

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

Who handles building permits and land questions in Howard County?

Does Howard County have zoning?

How do septic permits work in Howard County?

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

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

What to check before you buy land in Howard County

Watch-outs

Sources

Compared with neighboring counties

Howard County in Arkansas

How Howard County scores

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Parcel due diligence

Cities and towns in Howard County

Answers from the rulebook for Howard County

Howard County rules

Arkansas rules that apply here

Still unanswered

Living off-grid in Howard County, Arkansas

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

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

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

How much does land cost in Howard County, Arkansas?

What is the water situation in Howard County?

How remote is Howard County?

How Howard compares in Arkansas