Bolthole Index

Izard County, Arkansas

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

76Index Score / 100
#27 of 75 in Arkansas

Izard County, Arkansas has no confirmed countywide building-permit requirement for unincorporated land, and Arkansas does not impose one statewide, so ask the County Judge's Office about your parcel before starting work.1 Countywide zoning could not be confirmed either.2 Septic permits are different: the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent issues them, not a county or city building office.3

At a glance

Building permit
No Izard County requirement was confirmed; ask the County Judge's Office before building1
Building code
Arkansas building-code minimums apply statewide, including rural and unincorporated areas4
Zoning
Countywide zoning could not be confirmed; municipal rules may differ2
Septic permit
Required through the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent56
RV or tiny home
Rules for one private parcel could not be confirmed; paid multi-space parks are state-regulated78
Owner-builder
An owner may build the owner's residence without a residential-contractor license, but the exemption has limits9
State-highway driveway
An Arkansas Department of Transportation permit is required10

Who to call

Also useful

Izard County Government

General county-government contact and the starting point for identifying any building permit, zoning or land-use authority for an unincorporated parcel

870-368-4328

Main and Lunen Street Melbourne, AR 72556

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health Izard County Health Unit

Local Arkansas Department of Health contact for reaching the environmental-health staff or Designated Representative responsible for onsite-wastewater applications

870-368-7790

149 Haley St, Melbourne, AR 72556

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

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

We could not confirm a general Izard County building-permit requirement or inspection schedule for unincorporated property. Arkansas does not impose a single statewide building-permit requirement either, and local governments may set their own plan approval, building permits and inspections.1 Call the Izard County Judge's Office before ordering materials or clearing a house site, and ask any city involved, because those offices can identify any authority that applies to the parcel.11

A missing local permit does not mean construction is code-free. Arkansas building-code minimums apply statewide, including in rural and unincorporated areas where a permit or inspection may not be required.4 The statewide code governs new structures and applicable alterations, additions and changes in use, while a local government may enforce provisions of the state code.12 Septic approval is a separate state process and does not come from a building permit.3

Who handles Izard County building permits and land-use questions?

Izard County's official directory does not list a dedicated building or planning office, and the available material does not establish who issues a building permit for every unincorporated parcel.1 The practical first call is the official Izard County government number shown above.11 Ask whether the site is inside a municipality or Special Flood Hazard Area and request the office responsible for a written parcel determination; development in those flood-hazard areas is limited by the county's flood-damage-prevention rules.13

We could not confirm a general Izard County access rule for county-maintained roads, so ask the county which office reviews those driveways.11 Every noncommercial access driveway on an Arkansas state highway requires an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit, and work cannot begin in the state right-of-way before issuance.14 Building-permit confirmation does not resolve access, septic approval or floodplain review.

Does Izard County have zoning?

We could not confirm a current countywide zoning ordinance for unincorporated Izard County.2 Do not translate that gap into a promise that a parcel is unrestricted. Ask the County Judge's Office whether the tract is governed by a county ordinance, and ask the relevant city before buying land inside municipal limits.11

The same unanswered status applies to general minimum lot size, dwelling size, building setbacks, height and lot coverage in Izard County.2 Restrictions may also come from a deed or private covenant. If the seller advertises unrestricted land, request the recorded instruments and a written answer from the public office with jurisdiction. A subdivision proposing standard onsite wastewater systems must submit its overall wastewater plan to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval, but that state review is not a complete Izard County subdivision-approval process.15

How do septic permits work in Izard County?

The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent administers onsite-wastewater permits and inspections in Izard County.3 Start with the Izard County Health Unit and ask for the environmental-health contact or Designated Representative serving the property.16 Part I is the construction permit, and a Designated Representative must complete it for approval before construction begins.17 The installed system must be inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent, and the owner must obtain an operating permit before use.18 The published application-review fee is $30 for a residential structure of 1,500 square feet or less.19

A property must connect to an available sanitary sewer when it is within 300 feet of the point where the sewer exits the building and the connection need not cross another person's property.20 In that situation, a privy or onsite wastewater system cannot be used.21 Only about 28.4% of Izard County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make soil suitability and system layout an early feasibility item.22

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

We could not confirm an Izard County rule that generally allows or prohibits long-term RV living, private-land camping or occupancy of a single tiny home.2 Ask the County Judge's Office and any municipality with jurisdiction before treating either use as legal.11 Septic approval remains a separate requirement when an onsite-wastewater system will serve the site.6

Arkansas does regulate a different situation: land with 3 or more paid spaces intended for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes is treated as a regulated park.7 Within that park framework, 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 not.23 That park rule does not answer whether one RV or tiny home may be occupied on one private Izard County parcel.

How do you build a home in Izard County, step by step?

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated and ask Izard County which building and zoning authorities apply.11
  2. Determine whether the site lies in a Special Flood Hazard Area, where Izard County's flood-damage-prevention rules limit development.13
  3. Ask the county who reviews access from a county road, or obtain the required Arkansas Department of Transportation permit for a state-highway driveway before right-of-way work.1114
  4. Ask whether an available sanitary sewer triggers the connection rule; otherwise contact the Izard County Health Unit and have a Designated Representative complete the septic construction-permit application before installation.201624
  5. Design to Arkansas statewide building-code minimums even if no local permit or inspection is required.4
  6. An owner building the owner's residence is exempt from residential-contractor licensing unless the owner builds more than one residence in a calendar year; the exemption does not erase code or permit duties.9
  7. Arrange Department or Authorized Agent inspection and approval, then obtain the operating permit before using the septic system.2518

What should you check before buying land in Izard County?

Make a contract contingent on written answers about jurisdiction, legal access, septic feasibility, water and floodplain status. Countywide zoning, a private-well permit rule and a general county-road driveway rule could not be confirmed, so direct those questions to Izard County and the health unit before closing.21116 Development within Izard County Special Flood Hazard Areas must comply with the county's flood-damage-prevention rules and any stricter applicable restriction.13

Terrain and soils deserve a site visit: about 74.1% of the county is at a slope of 15% or less, while only about 28.4% of soils avoid severe conventional-drain-field limitations.2622 Izard County's effective property-tax rate is about 0.6%, and the median annual property-tax bill is about $714.2728 The nearest city of 100,000 or more is about 97 miles from the county center, which makes contractor availability and material delivery worth pricing early.29

Watch-outs

  • A seller's claim that land is unrestricted does not establish Izard County zoning, setback, RV or tiny-home rules; ask the County Judge's Office for the authority governing the parcel.211
  • Septic construction needs approval before installation, and the system cannot be used until it is inspected, approved and covered by an operating permit.1718
  • Development in a Special Flood Hazard Area must meet Izard County's flood-damage-prevention rules and any stricter applicable restriction.13
  • A state-highway driveway requires an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit; ask Izard County who handles access from a county-maintained road.1411

Sources

  1. 2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments (2026 county census)
  2. (2026 county census)
  3. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  4. Arkansas Home Improvement Application and Test Information, quoted and re-checked
  5. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  6. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  7. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  8. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  9. Home Improvement New Application, quoted and re-checked
  10. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Izard County Government (portal.arkansas.gov)
  12. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Flood Damage Prevention Code Adopted by Reference, quoted and re-checked
  14. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  15. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  16. Arkansas Department of Health Izard County Health Unit (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  17. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  18. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  19. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  20. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  21. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  22. 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
  23. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  24. 14 CAR § 21-303. Permit Procedure, quoted and re-checked
  25. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  26. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  27. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Straight-line distance from the county center to the nearest city of 100,000+ people: Bolthole Index county data

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

RuleIzard CountyStone CountySharp CountyFulton CountyBaxter CountyIndependence CountyCleburne County
Building permitLimitedLimitedNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredLimited
County zoningNot publishedNot publishedNoNot publishedNoNoYes
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Izard County in Arkansas

76
County map
Izard County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Izard County scores

Seclusion81100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency69100% ev.
Admin Boringness6677% ev.
Durability46100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost87100% ev.

Evidence strength: 96%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$179kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$2,778Land / acre
49.6"Annual rain
8.2% of yrsSevere drought
21.4 / yr (+16.7)Mid-century 100°F days
17.9 daysMid-century dry spell
2.36" (+7.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.58×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,523Home insurance / yr
0.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.85%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
8,739People within 30 min
464,436People within 2 hr
16,829Radius comparison (15 mi)
24.4People / sq mi
0%Federal land
74.1%Land at 15% slope or less
28.4%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
104,766 acWorkable land screen
68.6%Wooded land
43.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
58.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Izard 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.

Calico Rock · Town of Franklin · Town of Guion · Horseshoe Bend · Melbourne · Town of Mount Pleasant · Oxford · Town of Pineville

Answers from the rulebook for Izard County

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

Izard County rules

  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Floodplain development within Special Flood Hazard Areas under Izard County's flood damage prevention program.

    • The ordinance applies to all Special Flood Hazard Areas within the jurisdiction of Izard County.
    • The referenced Flood Damage Prevention Code is dated July 10, 2007.
    • Development must comply with the ordinance and all other applicable regulations.
    • More stringent restrictions in another ordinance, easement, covenant, or deed restriction control in the event of conflict or overlap.

    applicable area: Special Flood Hazard Areas · referenced code date: July 10, 2007

    “There is hereby adopted by reference a “Flood Damage Prevention Code for { Izard County }, Arkansas,” dated { July 10, 2007 }”

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

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

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

    Residential builder and home-improvement contractor licensing for an owner constructing the owner's residence or acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's property in Arkansas, including Izard County.

    • The exemption applies to licensure, not necessarily to any building-permit, septic, electrical, plumbing, fire, or other approval.
    • An owner constructing the owner's residence is exempt unless the owner builds more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • An owner acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor must be working on the owner's own property.
    • The source also lists exemptions for subcontractors working for properly licensed contractors and contractors licensed by other Arkansas licensing agencies when working within the scope of that license.
    • The source states that the penalty for working as a residential or home-improvement contractor without first being licensed is $100 to $400 per day.

    residences built by owner per calendar year: <= 1 residence (The owner is exempt unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year.) · penalty for unlicensed residential or home-improvement contracting: 100-400 USD per day

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

    State projects in Arkansas.

    • The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.
    • Arkansas laws and the applicable subchapter take precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed its requirements.
    • All project designs must comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code.
    • Other codes, rules, or standards may apply to a specific project.
    • The department and design professional are responsible for determining all applicable codes for each specific project.
    “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Arkansas building codes applicable statewide, including rural and unincorporated Izard County.
      “Arkansas Building Codes are mandatory statewide minimums. They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required. The Arkansas Building Code is adopted by the State Fire Marshal’s office. It is a part of the Fire Prevention Code. The Code applies Statewide, even in rural and unincorporated areas. Arkansas is currently under the 2012 Edition of the Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures throughout Arkansas, under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including Volume II for building-code requirements and Volume III for residential-code requirements.
      “Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state shall only adopt and enforce the provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition. [...] The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the International Building Code Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the International Building Code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, shall be made in accordance therewith.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State projects in Arkansas subject to the Building Authority Division design-review rules.
      “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office. Arkansas laws and this subchapter shall have precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed the requirements of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. All project designs shall comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. Other codes, rules, or standards may be applicable to a specific project. It is the department’s and design professional’s responsibility to determine all applicable codes for each specific project.”
  • InspectionsRequired

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    “three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy of tiny houses on wheels in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
      ““Tiny house on wheels” means a structure intended as a habitable dwelling for one (1) or more individuals which, for the purposes of this part, shall be considered a: (A) Mobile home, if plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code, 17 CAR pt. 65; or (B) Recreational vehicle, if not plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code;”
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater systems in Izard County.

    • For a county with an Authorized Agent, the Authorized Agent acts for the Department; where no Authorized Agent is designated, applications are made to the Department.
    • Local health units and Environmental Specialists provide county-level assistance.
    “applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in Izard County.
      “For those cities or counties with authorized agents, the authorized agent shall be the authorized agent of the department. In the event that an authorized agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the department.”
  • Septic permitRequired

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

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

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

    “A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or residence. [...] Permit requirement. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite wastewater system, owned by any other person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency until the owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Izard County.
      “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained in accordance with the RULES PERTAINING TO ONSITE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS prior to the construction, installation or modification of the Onsite Wastewater System.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Onsite wastewater system installation and operation in Izard County.

    • The system must be inspected and approved before operation.
    • The installer must notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative when installation is ready for inspection.
    • The owner or occupant must provide reasonable access.
    • Required documentation must be submitted to the local health unit within five days.
    • The system cannot be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.

    installer documentation deadline: 5 days (after installation) · advance work notification: >= 24 hours (emergency repairs are treated separately)

    “inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Operation of onsite wastewater systems in Izard County.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until: (1) Such system has been inspected and approved by the department or its authorized agent; and (2) The owner has first obtained a permit for operation issued by the department or its authorized agent.”
    • Required — Operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas after installation or construction.
      “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”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Privies and onsite wastewater systems on premises in Izard County.
      “No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Wells serving public and semi-public water systems in Arkansas.

    • Written approval from the Arkansas Department of Health is required before construction begins.
    • If the well's public or semi-public status is uncertain, the well contractor must obtain a written determination from the Department of Health before construction.
    • This claim does not establish a general construction-permit requirement for private domestic wells.
    “Wells for public and semi-public water systems shall be located, designed, and constructed in accordance with the respective rules of the Department of Health and shall have written approval from the department prior to the start of construction. If uncertain that a well is public or semi-public, the well contractor shall obtain a written determination from the department prior to construction.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Premises in Izard County served by a sanitary sewer available without crossing another person's property.

    • Connection is required when the premises are within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits the building on the owner's property and the sewer is available.
    • No privy, onsite wastewater system, or other receptacle for human excreta may be constructed, maintained, or used in that circumstance.
    • Plumbing must comply with the Arkansas State Plumbing Code.

    sewer distance threshold: <= 300 feet (Connection requirement applies only when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.)

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.”
    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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
      “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  • Subdividing landLimited

    Subdivisions in Izard County that propose standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of their lots or tracts.

    • Subdivision plans using standard onsite wastewater systems must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval.
    • Unsuitable lots or parcels must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
    • Green or community space is not assigned a lot number or considered in approval.
    • The state rule does not establish a complete county subdivision-approval regime.

    subdivision plan review fee minimum: 100 USD (plus $25 for each following lot, maximum $1,500)

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

    Noncommercial access driveways adjoining Arkansas state highways in Izard County.

    • Within incorporated cities, applicants must satisfy city requirements and obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit.
    • City requirements must meet or exceed the state requirements.
    • No work may begin in the state highway right-of-way until the permit is issued.
    “A permit shall be obtained from the Arkansas Department of Transportation for all noncommercial access driveways on state highways.”
    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.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

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

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

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

    “$50,001 to $75,000 | 9.25%”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas Department of Health individual onsite wastewater permit review fees applicable in Izard County.
      “For structures one thousand five hundred square feet (1,500 sq. ft.) or less, the fee to review a permit application is thirty dollars ($30.00);”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater permit process applicable in Izard County.

    • Part I is the construction permit and must be completed by a Designated Representative and approved before construction.
    • Part II is the installation inspection.
    • Part III is the operating permit, and the system cannot be used before issuance.
    • Changes require prior approval.
    • Emergency repairs have a ten-working-day post-repair permit deadline.

    installer documentation deadline: <= 5 days · emergency repair permit deadline: <= 10 working days

    “Part I of the permit is the permit for construction.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas onsite-wastewater permitting process applicable in Izard County.
      “Part I of the Permit is the Permit for Construction. Part I of the Permit Application form shall be completed by a Designated Representative and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent prior to initiating construction.”
    • 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.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • County-wide zoning — Zoning regulation for unincorporated and incorporated areas of Izard County.
  • Local zoning — Aggregate local zoning in Izard County, including any municipal or other subordinate local zoning jurisdictions.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts or zoning maps in Izard County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Izard County.
  • Minimum lot size — General minimum lot size for development in Izard County.
7 more unanswered
  • Setbacks
  • Lot coverage
  • Building height
  • Camping on your land
  • Manufactured homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

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

Living off-grid in Izard County, Arkansas

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

Izard County scores 76/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 8,739 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Izard County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones). Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Program. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

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

Land in Izard County runs about $2,778 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Izard County?

Izard County gets about 49.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.2% of years.

How remote is Izard County?

A representative private-land location has about 8,739 people within a 30-minute drive and 464,436 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 Izard compares in Arkansas

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