Bolthole Index

Jefferson County, Arkansas

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

68Index Score / 100
#60 of 75 in Arkansas

We could not confirm a building-permit or zoning requirement for unincorporated Jefferson County, Arkansas; Arkansas has no single statewide building-permit rule, so ask the County Judge's Office before designing123. Inside Pine Bluff, the city requires zoning and building permits45. Septic permits for every address, city or not, come from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent67.

At a glance

Building permit
No single statewide permit; county requirement unconfirmed, state code standards still apply18
Zoning
Unconfirmed for unincorporated land; ask the County Judge's Office directly2
Septic
Arkansas Department of Health (or its authorized agent) issues construction and operation permits; inspection comes between69
Owner-builder
Contractor-license exemption for your own home, limited to one residence per year10
Private well permit
No general state permit found for a private domestic well; only public/semi-public systems need Health Department approval11
Sewer connection
Must connect if a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet and reachable without crossing another property12
State highway driveway
ArDOT permit required; commercial access generally needs at least a $1,000 deposit or bond13
Property tax
Effective rate about 0.6%, with a typical annual bill near $6671415

Who to call

Also useful

Jefferson County Judge's Office

The county's chief local authority; first call for whether unincorporated Jefferson County has adopted any building, zoning or permit ordinance

870-541-5360

101 West Barraque, Suite 107, Pine Bluff, AR 71601

Floodplain permits

Jefferson County Office of Emergency Management

Floodplain development information and permits for Jefferson County

870-541-5470

101 West Barraque, Pine Bluff, AR 71601

Roads & driveways

Jefferson County Road Department

Road maintenance and access/driveway concerns onto county roads

870-534-7020

3304 W. 7th St., Pine Bluff, AR 71603

Health department

Arkansas Department of Health Local Health Units directory (for the Jefferson County Health Unit)

Directory to find the Jefferson County Health Unit (Pine Bluff), which handles onsite wastewater/septic permitting for the county; its current phone and address could not be independently verified for this guide

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 16, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

Arkansas has no single statewide building-permit requirement for all private construction; local governments may set their own, and we could not confirm that unincorporated Jefferson County has done so1. The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code still sets statewide construction standards1617. Before building on unincorporated land, ask the Jefferson County Judge's Office whether a county permit or inspection applies to the parcel and project3. Inside Pine Bluff, construction requires both a zoning permit and a building permit, including plan review before issuance4. The county's answers on this page apply to unincorporated Jefferson County.

Who is the Jefferson County building department, and how do you reach them?

We could not confirm a dedicated Jefferson County building department, permit portal or fee schedule1. Start with the County Judge's Office at 101 West Barraque, Suite 107, Pine Bluff, AR 716013. Call 870-541-5360 to ask whether a permit or inspection applies to the parcel and project3. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm3. Contact the Office of Emergency Management for floodplain development and the Road Department for access involving a county road1819.

Does Jefferson County have zoning for RVs, tiny homes and setbacks?

We could not confirm zoning for unincorporated Jefferson County2. Ask the County Judge's Office about the parcel's allowed use, setbacks, minimum dwelling size and lot requirements before designing3. Pine Bluff has municipal zoning, including applications for variances, rezoning and use permits, but those city rules do not establish zoning for unincorporated land5. We also could not confirm a county rule for long-term RV or tiny-home occupancy on a private parcel. Arkansas separately regulates certain paid parks, but that rule does not answer whether one RV or tiny home may be occupied on private land2021.

Who issues septic permits in Jefferson County, and how do they work?

Septic permits for Jefferson County, including addresses inside Pine Bluff, come from the Arkansas Department of Health or an authorized agent it designates; where no agent exists, applications go to the Department6227. Part I is the construction permit, completed by a Designated Representative and approved before work starts; Part II is the installation inspection; Part III is the operation permit, and the system cannot be used before it is issued9. Published individual-system review fees run from $30 to $150 by building size, while alteration, repair or extension review costs $30; construction must begin within one year or the permit needs revalidating23. A permit may be refused where public sewer is reasonably available, and a premises must connect when sanitary sewer is within 300 feet of the building's sewer-exit point, available, and reachable without crossing another person's property2425. Soils matter too: no onsite system is approved, whatever the lot size, if the soil is unsuitable26. Only about 17.1% of Jefferson County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, so settle the site evaluation before fixing the homesite27.

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

  1. Ask the Jefferson County Judge's Office whether a county building permit, inspection or zoning rule applies to an unincorporated parcel; inside Pine Bluff, obtain the city's zoning and building permits328.
  2. Design to the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code's statewide construction standards16.
  3. Check for required sewer connection; otherwise, have a Designated Representative complete the onsite wastewater construction-permit application and obtain approval before work begins2529.
  4. Have the septic installation inspected, then obtain the operation permit before using the system30.
  5. Contact Jefferson County's Office of Emergency Management about floodplain development before designing on flood-prone land18.
  6. An owner building the owner's own home may use Arkansas's contractor-license exemption if no more than 1 residence is built in the calendar year, but the exemption removes no permit, code, septic or floodplain requirement10.
  7. Apply to ArDOT before driveway work on state highway right-of-way; contact the Road Department about a county road1319.

What should you check before buying land in Jefferson County?

Water: we could not confirm a general construction-permit rule for a private domestic well; public and semi-public systems need written Arkansas Department of Health approval before construction11. Wastewater: check sewer proximity and soil suitability before setting a homesite, because the connection rule can bar onsite sanitation and only about 17.1% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field3127. Buying into a subdivision? Plans that propose standard onsite systems need Health Department review, with a plan-review fee of at least $100 for one lot and $25 for each following lot, capped at $1,500, and unsuitable lots must be folded into surrounding parcels3233. Access: ArDOT permission is required before driveway work begins on state highway right-of-way13. Taxes: Jefferson County's effective property tax rate is about 0.6%, and the typical annual bill is about $6671415.

Watch-outs

  • Jefferson County's own website does not show a building, planning or zoning department; do not assume unincorporated land is unrestricted, and confirm directly with the County Judge's Office before you build3.
  • The Jefferson County Health Unit's specific phone number and address could not be verified fresh for this guide; use the Arkansas Department of Health's local health-unit directory to confirm current contact details before relying on an old listing34.
  • A nearby available sewer can require connection and bar a privy, septic system or other receptacle for human waste, so settle wastewater options before choosing the homesite2531.
  • A septic construction permit is not permission to use the system: inspection approval and an operation permit must come first3536.

Sources

  1. 2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments (2026 county census)
  2. (2026 county census)
  3. Jefferson County Judge's Office (jeffersoncountyar.gov)
  4. Pine Bluff: Doing Business - City of Pine Bluff (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Pine Bluff: Zoning - City of Pine Bluff (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  6. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  7. Pine Bluff: Onsite Wastewater - Arkansas Department of Health (Jefferson County), quoted and re-checked
  8. State of Arkansas Home Improvement Application and Test Information, quoted and re-checked
  9. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  10. State of Arkansas Home Improvement Application and Test Information, quoted and re-checked
  11. 17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  13. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  15. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  16. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. Jefferson County Office of Emergency Management (jeffersoncountyar.gov)
  19. Jefferson County Road Department (jeffersoncountyar.gov)
  20. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  23. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  24. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  25. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  26. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  27. 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
  28. Doing Business - City Of Pine Bluff, quoted and re-checked
  29. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  30. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  31. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  32. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  33. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  34. Arkansas Department of Health Local Health Units directory (for the Jefferson County Health Unit) (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  35. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  36. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked

Written October 16, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Jefferson County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleJefferson CountyLincoln CountyGrant CountyCleveland CountyArkansas CountyLonoke CountyPulaski County
Building permitLimitedNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredRequired
County zoningNot publishedNot publishedNoNoNoNoYes
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADH

County locator

Jefferson County in Arkansas

68
County map
Jefferson County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Jefferson County scores

Seclusion53100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency55100% ev.
Admin Boringness6677% ev.
Durability58100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost84100% 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 →

$90kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$3,494Land / acre
52.4"Annual rain
9.7% of yrsSevere drought
25.8 / yr (+21.5)Mid-century 100°F days
17.5 daysMid-century dry spell
2.4" (+7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.51×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,822Home insurance / yr
0.5% / yrInsurance growth
0.97%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
48,847People within 30 min
1,413,637People within 2 hr
57,608Radius comparison (15 mi)
73People / sq mi
5.8%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
17.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
89,886 acWorkable land screen
44.1%Wooded land
49.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Jefferson County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Altheimer · Redfield · Town of Sherrill · Town of Wabbaseka

Answers from the rulebook for Jefferson County

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

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

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

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

    Owner acting as contractor for construction of the owner's residence, and owner acting as the owner's home-improvement contractor on the owner's property, in Jefferson County.

    • The source addresses residential-builder and home-improvement contractor licensing exemptions, not a county building-permit exemption.
    • An owner acting as contractor in construction of the owner's residence is exempt unless the owner builds more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • The source also lists owners acting as their own home-improvement contractor on their own property as exempt.

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

    “The following are exemptions to the residential builder and home improvement licensing requirements: (1) owners are exempt from licensure when acting as the contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year (2) owners acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property”
    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 — Building construction in Jefferson County, including rural and unincorporated areas.
      “Arkansas Building Codes are mandatory statewide minimums. They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required. [...] The 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 serving property in Jefferson County.

    • The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent approves onsite wastewater permits and inspections.
    • If a county has an Authorized Agent, that agent acts as the Department's Authorized Agent; otherwise applications are made to the Department.
    “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department. [...] In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in Jefferson 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems in Jefferson County and statewide Arkansas.
      “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. [...] It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite wastewater system, owned by any other person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency until the owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent. [...] It shall be unlawful for any 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. [...] except that emergency repairs may be undertaken without prior issuance of a Permit, provided a Permit is subsequently obtained within 10 working days after the repairs are made.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems in Jefferson 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. [...] The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.”
    • Required — Construction, installation, modification, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Jefferson County under Arkansas statewide rules.
      “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained in accordance with this part”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Inspection and approval of onsite wastewater system installation before operation in Jefferson County.

    • An onsite wastewater system may not begin operation until inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has obtained a Permit for Operation.
    • The installer must notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative when installation is ready for inspection.
    • The owner or occupant must provide free access at reasonable times.
    • Within five days, the installer must submit required documentation to the local health unit showing installation under the approved permit.
    • Inspection may be performed by the Authorized Agent or by a Designated Representative with Authorized Agent approval.
    • The system may not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.

    installer documentation deadline: 5 days

    “The system shall not be used until the permit for operation is issued.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation and operation approval for onsite wastewater systems in Jefferson County and statewide Arkansas.
      “until such system has been inspected and approved”
    • Required — Onsite wastewater installation and operation in Jefferson County.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
    • 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”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Off-grid sanitation and onsite wastewater systems in Jefferson County.
      “All lots, tracts, or parcels shall have suitable primary and secondary absorption areas that utilize standard onsite wastewater systems sized according to natural soil data. In no case shall a wastewater system utilizing subsurface renovation be approved regardless of lot size if soils are not suitable for subsurface renovation.”
    • Limited — Privies and onsite wastewater systems on premises meeting the rule's sanitary-sewer connection conditions.
      “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property. No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
  • 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

    Sanitary sewer connection for premises in Jefferson County using onsite wastewater systems.

    • Premises must connect to a sanitary sewer when the sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner's property, is available to the premises, and connection can be made without crossing another person's property.
    • Under those conditions, privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used.

    sewer distance: <= 300 feet (Sewer must be available and connection must not require crossing another person's property.)

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property. No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Premises in Jefferson County where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet and available without crossing another person's property.
      “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property. No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
    • 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 landRegulated (with conditions)

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

    • Plans must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall onsite-wastewater utilization plan.
    • Unsuitable lots or parcels must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
    • Green or community-space areas must be identified and are not assigned lot numbers or counted in subdivision approval.
    • Submission is made to the local health unit and includes soil-pit data, percolation tests if applicable, test locations, topography, and other information required for review.

    minimum plan review fee: 100 USD (For one lot.) · additional lot review fee: per 25 USD per following lot · maximum plan review fee: 1500 USD

    “shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivisions in Jefferson County proposed to use standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of their lots or tracts.
      “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.”
    • Limited — Subdivisions in Jefferson County that propose to use standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of their lots or tracts.
      “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. Any lots or parcels within the boundaries of the proposed subdivision, which are found to be unsuitable for standard onsite systems, shall be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats that are boundary surveys creating parcels in Arkansas.
      “Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office [...] Filing is not required [...] for survey plats [...] located in a municipality [...]”
  • Driveway accessRequired

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Arkansas onsite wastewater permit review fees applicable in Jefferson County.

    • Fees are payable to the Department before issuance of Part 1 of the permit application.
    • There is no refund if the applicant does not proceed.
    • Construction must begin within one year of issuance or the permit must be revalidated.
    • Residential auxiliary areas are excluded from square-footage calculations.

    permit review fee for structures up to 1500 square feet: 30 USD · permit review fee for structures over 1500 and up to 2000 square feet: 45 USD · permit review fee for structures over 2000 and up to 3000 square feet: 90 USD · permit review fee for structures over 3000 and up to 4000 square feet: 120 USD · permit review fee for structures over 4000 square feet: 150 USD · alteration, repair, or extension review fee: 30 USD

    “A fee shall be levied for the review of Individual Onsite Wastewater Permit Applications as follows:”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Published Arkansas Department of Health plan-review fees for subdivisions using standard onsite wastewater systems in Jefferson County.
      “minimum of one hundred ($100.00) [...] maximum of one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500).”
    • 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%”
  • 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”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Arkansas onsite wastewater permitting process applicable in Jefferson 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 onsite wastewater permit process applicable in Jefferson County.
      “Part I of the permit is the permit for construction.”
  • 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Jefferson County

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

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction within the City of Pine Bluff, Jefferson County, Arkansas.

    • A zoning permit and building permit are required.
    • Two copies of complete building plans must be submitted for review and approval before issuance.
    • A building plan review fee based on construction cost is assessed before plan review.
    • Construction plans must conform to the International/Uniform Building Code and applicable local codes, with additional state mechanical and plumbing requirements.
    “Construction within the City of Pine Bluff requires a zoning permit and a building permit.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning within the City of Pine Bluff, Jefferson County, Arkansas.

    • Municipal zoning applications include zoning appeals, variances, rezoning, use permits on review, and floodplain development permits.
    “Zoning Applications Zoning Appeal Board of Zoning Adjustment Variance Re-Zoning Application Street/Alley Closing Use Permit On Review (UPOR) Permit Flood Plain Development Permit Application”

Still unanswered

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

  • County-wide zoning — A countywide zoning ordinance administered by Jefferson County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in unincorporated Jefferson County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Jefferson County, Arkansas.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot-size requirements in Jefferson County, Arkansas.
  • Setbacks — Setback requirements in Jefferson County, Arkansas.
6 more unanswered
  • 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.

Water rights & wells in Jefferson County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Arkansas’s water agency.

Over-appropriated / declining

The aquifer here is over-appropriated and declining. A domestic well is usually still permit-exempt, but long-term supply is a genuine risk.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Critical Groundwater Area designation in Arkansas is explicitly NON-regulatory — no water right or permit is required to drill or use a well, even inside a critical area. A new landowner can drill a household well anywhere.

Limit: non-domestic users >=50,000 gpd register; domestic exempt

Arkansas Dept of Agriculture — Water-Use Registration / Critical Groundwater Areas ↗

Regulated-riparian state (large uses permitted). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Arkansas state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Jefferson County, Arkansas

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

Jefferson County scores 68/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property.

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

Jefferson 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 (via county Environmental Health Specialist). 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 Jefferson County?

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

Land in Jefferson County runs about $3,494 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Jefferson County?

Jefferson County gets about 52.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 9.7% of years. On water rights, Jefferson County lies in the Grand Prairie Critical Ground Water Area — CGWA (1998) over the Mississippi River Valley alluvial + Sparta aquifers in the rice belt; large alluvial cone of depression (20-50% saturated thickness). Non-regulatory; domestic wells not barred..

How remote is Jefferson County?

A representative private-land location has about 48,847 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,413,637 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 Jefferson compares in Arkansas

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