Bolthole Index

Lee County, Arkansas

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

71Index Score / 100
#50 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Lee County, Arkansas appears not to require a county residential building permit, but confirm with the County Judge's office before building12. State building, residential and fire codes still apply even though that does not establish a Lee County permit program34. Septic construction generally requires approval and an operating permit after inspection56.

At a glance

Building permit
Appears not required in unincorporated areas; confirm with the County Judge's office12
Zoning
County zoning appears absent, but no explicit county ordinance statement was confirmed7
Septic
State-administered unless a local Authorized Agent is designated; permits and inspection generally required856
Septic permit exemption
A single residence on a qualifying large tract may be exempt when every system part is over 200 feet from each property line9
Owner-builder
State contractor-license exemption for your own residence, limited to 1 residence per calendar year10
RV or tiny home
Private-parcel occupancy was not confirmed; paid parks with 3 or more spaces face state rules111213
Setbacks and minimum home size
No rule was confirmed for unincorporated land; ask the County Judge's office72

Who to call

Also useful

Lee County Judge's Office

First local contact for questions about county building permits, land-use rules, roads and the appropriate floodplain contact

(870) 295-7700

15 E Chestnut St, Marianna, AR 72360

Also useful

Lee County Office of Emergency Management

County emergency management and a starting point for flood-hazard questions; the page does not identify this office as the floodplain permit issuer

(870) 295-7700

15 E Chestnut St, Marianna, AR 72360

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health - Onsite Wastewater Program

Statewide onsite-wastewater permitting; applicants start with the health unit serving the property

1-800-462-0599

4815 W. Markham, Little Rock, AR 72205-3867

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

Off-grid gear

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

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

Unincorporated Lee County appears not to require a county residential building permit, although no explicit county statement confirms the requirement or exemption1. Before ordering materials or hiring a crew, ask the Lee County Judge's office whether the parcel needs a construction permit, inspection or certificate of occupancy2. Arkansas applies its building, residential and fire code framework statewide, but statewide code compliance does not by itself establish a Lee County permit or inspection program34. An owner building a personal residence may qualify for the state residential-contractor licensing exemption if the owner builds no more than 1 residence during the calendar year, but that exemption does not waive applicable code, permit or inspection requirements10. Nonresidential farm buildings have a separate state exemption from specified electrical licensing and code requirements, not a general exemption from land-use, septic or floodplain rules14.

Who handles building permits in Lee County, Arkansas?

Lee County does not publish a dedicated building-department contact, so the practical first call is the Lee County Judge's Office at 15 E Chestnut St, Marianna, AR 72360, (870) 295-77002. Ask that office who decides residential permit, inspection, occupancy, driveway and private-development floodplain questions for the exact parcel; those local processes could not be confirmed2. Lee County's Office of Emergency Management coordinates disaster alerting, but its page does not say that it issues floodplain-development permits15. Arkansas requires a development permit for state capital projects in flood-prone areas, but that rule does not establish the process for a private Lee County project16. Septic work is separate and goes to the Arkansas Department of Health unless a local Authorized Agent has been designated8.

Does Lee County, Arkansas have zoning?

Unincorporated Lee County appears to have no county zoning, but no official county page or ordinance explicitly confirms that conclusion7. Lee County setbacks, general minimum lot size, minimum dwelling size, building height and lot coverage therefore remain unconfirmed; ask the County Judge's office about the parcel before relying on a seller's claim that the land is unrestricted2. A parcel inside an incorporated city can be governed differently, so contact the relevant city when the address is within municipal limits7. Building codes are separate from zoning: Arkansas applies its building, residential and fire code framework statewide even though that does not prove Lee County runs a local permit program34. The state farm-building exemption is limited to specified electrical requirements for nonresidential farm structures and does not establish a county zoning or construction exemption14.

How do septic permits work in Lee County?

Lee County onsite wastewater applications go to the Arkansas Department of Health unless a local Authorized Agent has been designated8. Construction and operation permits generally must be obtained before an onsite system is built, installed or modified5. Start with the health unit serving the property and ask for the onsite environmental specialist9. Arkansas has no universal septic lot minimum; usable space depends on soils, bedroom count and the 100-foot well setback, while subdivision lots using drip dispersal must be at least 0.5 acre917. A qualifying single residence on a large tract may be permit-exempt when every system part is more than 200 feet from every property line, including roads9. Only about 2.2% of Lee County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field18. Construction on a subdivision lot using onsite wastewater must wait for state health approval, and the system cannot operate until inspection, approval and issuance of its operating permit196.

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

Lee County's rule for living in a single RV or tiny home on private land could not be confirmed, so ask the County Judge's office about occupancy, utilities and temporary-use limits before moving onto the parcel2. Arkansas treats a parcel with 3 or more paid spaces for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes as a regulated park, and its recreational-vehicle-park rule describes transient stays typically by night or week111213. Those park rules do not decide whether 1 owner may occupy 1 RV or tiny home on a private tract1112. Sanitation still controls what is practical: connection to an available sewer within 300 feet is required when the connection does not cross another person's property, and privies or onsite systems then cannot be used20.

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

  1. Call the Lee County Judge's office and ask whether the parcel needs a building permit, inspection, occupancy approval, driveway approval or local floodplain permit2.
  2. Confirm whether the land is inside a city; the finding that county zoning appears absent applies to unincorporated Lee County7.
  3. Plan to comply with Arkansas's statewide building, residential and fire code framework even if Lee County confirms that it has no local permit program34.
  4. Call the health unit serving the property and ask for the onsite environmental specialist before fixing the house location9.
  5. Complete the soil and system-design work because only about 2.2% of county soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field18.
  6. Obtain required septic construction approval before work and the operating permit after inspection56.
  7. For access from a state highway, obtain the Arkansas Department of Transportation driveway permit before working in the highway right-of-way21.

What should you check before buying land in Lee County?

Check wastewater feasibility first because only about 2.2% of Lee County soils lack severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field18. If the parcel is in a new subdivision using onsite wastewater, verify state health approval before construction and confirm that the subdivision plat was filed after applicable local recording requirements1922. A new unsewered subdivision with 50 or more lots within 2,640 feet of a lake or stream also needs state environmental approval before it is created or platted23. Confirm legal access and learn whether a proposed driveway meets a county road or a state highway, since a state-highway connection requires a state driveway permit21. Ask the County Judge's office who administers private-development floodplain review because the county's emergency-management page does not identify a local permit issuer215.

Watch-outs

  • Lee County's building-permit, inspection and certificate-of-occupancy requirements were not confirmed on an explicit county page; ask the County Judge's office before construction2.
  • Lee County's zoning, setbacks, minimum dwelling size and general minimum lot size for unincorporated land were not confirmed; ask the County Judge's office about the specific parcel2.
  • A state septic permit exemption does not allow an onsite system where an available sewer is within 300 feet and connection can be made without crossing another person's property920.
  • The local floodplain permit authority for private development could not be confirmed; start with the County Judge's office or Office of Emergency Management215.

Sources

  1. Arkansas.gov - Lee County (2026 county census)
  2. Lee County Judge's Office (leecountyar.gov)
  3. Current Applicable State Codes in Arkansas, quoted and re-checked
  4. 22 CAR § 111-801. Energy conservation generally, 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. Arkansas.gov - Lee County (2026 county census)
  8. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  9. Arkansas Department of Health - Onsite Wastewater Program (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  10. Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules and Statutes, quoted and re-checked
  11. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  12. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  13. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  14. 17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions, quoted and re-checked
  15. Lee County Office of Emergency Management (leecountyar.gov)
  16. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  17. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  18. 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
  19. 14 CAR § 21-405. Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  20. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  21. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  23. 8 CAR § 23-103. Permit and disposal system approval required, quoted and re-checked

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

Like 4 of the 5 neighbors with published rules, Lee County has no countywide zoning.

RuleLee CountySt. Francis CountyMonroe CountyPhillips CountyCross CountyWoodruff CountyCrittenden County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredRequired
County zoningNoNoNoNoNot publishedNoYes
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADHAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Lee County in Arkansas

71
County map
Lee County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Lee County scores

Seclusion63100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency50100% ev.
Admin Boringness85100% ev.
Durability52100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost8596% ev.

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

$96kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$3,431Land / acre
52.2"Annual rain
8.1% of yrsSevere drought
20.1 / yr (+17.7)Mid-century 100°F days
17.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.37" (+8.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.55×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,812Home insurance / yr
1.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.68%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
14,898People within 30 min
2,349,526People within 2 hr
19,710Radius comparison (15 mi)
13.7People / sq mi
7.8%Federal land
97%Land at 15% slope or less
2.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
8,076 acWorkable land screen
25.3%Wooded land
63.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Lee County

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

Town of Aubrey · Town of Haynes · Town of LaGrange · Marianna · Town of Moro · Town of Rondo

Answers from the rulebook for Lee County

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

Lee County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county planning or zoning office is listed for Lee County; land-use regulation is handled by incorporated cities such as Marianna, not the county.

    Arkansas.gov - Lee County ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

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

    • The source does not impose a single statewide building-permit requirement for all private residential and commercial construction.
    • Local governments may establish prior plan approval, building-permit requirements, and construction inspections.
    • Counties, cities, or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code for new construction, additions, and renovations.
    • The cited document is the 2014 Arkansas Energy Code; current Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applicability should be confirmed separately.
    “A local government may exercise other administrative and enforcement procedures that it deems necessary to affect the purposes of this Code, including, but not limited to, prior plan approval, building permit requirements, and inspections during the course of construction.”
    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

    State residential contractor licensing requirements for an owner building or improving a residence in Arkansas; this source does not establish an exemption from Lee County building permits or inspections.

    • A person acting as a residential building contractor in construction of his or her residence is exempt unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year.
    • The owner of a single-family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property is exempt.
    • A residential building contractor or home improvement contractor project costing no more than $2,000 is exempt.
    • The $2,000 exemption does not apply when construction work necessary to complete the project is divided into separate contracts of amounts less than $2,000.
    • The cited exemptions concern licensing requirements under the Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee subchapter, not county permit, inspection, or occupancy requirements.

    residences built by person per calendar year: <= 1 residence (Exemption for construction of the person's residence does not apply if more than one residence is built during any calendar year.) · project cost: <= 2000 USD (The exemption does not apply when the work is divided into separate contracts of amounts less than $2,000.)

    “The following shall be exempted from the licensing requirements of this subchapter: (1) A person who acts as a residential building contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year; (2) The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property; (3)(A) A person or entity acting as a residential building contractor or a home improvement contractor on any project, when the cost of the work done or to be done does not exceed two thousand dollars ($2,000). (B) Subdivision (3)(A) of this section shall not apply to a project in which the construction work necessary to complete the project is divided into separate contracts of amounts less than two thousand dollars ($2,000);”
    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.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building, fire, and residential code framework applicable statewide in Arkansas, including Lee County.
      “Current Applicable State Codes in Arkansas (This list contains only the most commonly requested. Other codes may be applicable to a specific project.) Code Type Contact Fire and Building Current Code 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Includes: Fire Code, Building Code, Residential Code) (Based on IBC 2021 w\Arkansas Amendments)”
    • Adopted — Arkansas building-code requirements applicable statewide, including rural and unincorporated areas of Lee County.
      “Arkansas Building Codes are mandatory statewide minimums. They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New construction projects and renovations in Lee County, Arkansas, insofar as they are subject to the statewide Arkansas Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments and Arkansas Fire Prevention Code.
      “The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.”
    • 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.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Subdivision lots in Arkansas using drip dispersal design to determine minimum lot size for onsite wastewater systems, including applicable lots in unincorporated Lee County.

    • Drip dispersal design may be used only when the stated bedrock-depth criterion in section 7.2.2 is met.
    • Primary and secondary absorption areas must be flagged on contour.
    • The legal descriptions of the primary and secondary absorption areas must be included in the legal descriptions of the lots.
    • Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size must be 0.5 acres or larger.

    minimum lot size: >= 0.5 acre (Applies to lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size.)

    “Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be 0.5 acres or larger.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Lots in subdivisions using Arkansas onsite-wastewater drip-dispersal design, including applicable subdivisions in Lee County.
      “Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be five-tenths (0.5) of an acre or larger.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Occupancy of three or more recreational-vehicle spaces on a parcel in Lee County where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee.

    • The parcel is treated as a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR pt. 138.
    • The owner or operator is responsible for compliance.
    • Waivers or exceptions are case-by-case and subject to Department of Health discretion.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension requires prior Department of Health approval.
    • Recreational vehicles may not be permanently connected to recreational-vehicle spaces and must be quickly and easily moved when a flood event is imminent.
    • Recreational vehicles must be separated from each other and other structures by at least fifteen feet (15’).

    minimum spaces triggering park regulation: >= 3 spaces (Applies where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee.) · minimum separation between recreational vehicles and other structures: >= 15 feet

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

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

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

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

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

    Onsite wastewater systems in Lee County, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities unless a delegated Authorized Agent administers the application locally.

    • For cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent acts for the Arkansas Department of Health.
    • If no Authorized Agent has been designated, applications are made to the Arkansas Department of Health.
    “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department. In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems in Lee 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.”
    • Required — Construction, installation, or modification of onsite wastewater systems in Lee County under Arkansas law.
      “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

    Operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas after installation or construction.

    • The system must be inspected and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before operation.
    • The owner must obtain a Permit for Operation before the system is used.
    • The installer must notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative when the installation is ready for inspection.
    • The owner or occupant must provide free access at reasonable times for inspection.
    • The installer must submit required installation documentation to the local health unit within five days.
    • The inspection may be performed by the Authorized Agent or, with the Authorized Agent's approval, by the Designated Representative.

    installer documentation deadline: 5 days (after installation pursuant to the approved permit)

    “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent. [...] Within five (5) days, the installer shall submit the required documentation to the local health unit that the system has been installed pursuant to the approved permit. [...] After approval of the inspection, the Authorized Agent will approve and issue a Permit for Operation. The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Operation of onsite wastewater systems in Lee 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.”
  • 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, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta on premises in Lee 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 hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Premises in Lee County where sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building and is available to the premises.

    • Connection is required only when it can be made without crossing another person's property.
    • When the condition applies, privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.
    • Plumbing must comply with the Arkansas State Plumbing Code.

    sewer-distance threshold: <= 300 feet (Availability and no-crossing condition must also be satisfied.)

    “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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Electrical licensing and Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements for construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of nonresidential farm buildings or structures in Lee County and statewide Arkansas.
      “The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act [...] shall not apply to [...] any nonresidential farm building or structure”
    • Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
      “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Residential subdivision development and onsite wastewater systems in Lee County, including platted or unplatted lots or tracts governed by the Arkansas Sewage Disposal Systems Act.

    • Arkansas statewide onsite-wastewater rules apply to subdivisions; the rule requires planning, design, and construction under 14 CAR Part 21 and the Rules Pertaining to General Sanitation, 20 CAR Part 131.
    • Construction of any type may not begin on any subdivision lot until the Arkansas Department of Health gives final approval of the submission for onsite-wastewater utilization within the subdivision.
    • Onsite wastewater construction, installation, or modification requires construction and operation permits under 14 CAR Part 21; construction cannot begin until a valid construction permit is obtained, and operation requires inspection, approval, and an operation permit.
    • Primary and secondary absorption areas must be sized according to natural soil conditions and Table 1 loading rates; unsuitable soils cannot be approved for subsurface renovation regardless of lot size.
    • For lots less than three acres proposed for subdivision development, undisturbed soils must have at least 13 inches to a brief seasonal water table, 18 inches to an adjusted moderate seasonal water table, or 24 inches to an adjusted long seasonal water table.
    • Interceptor drains may be used to determine minimum lot size when specified seasonal-water-table conditions exist; lots under three acres requiring interceptor drains must include a complete permit submission establishing siting of primary and secondary areas and the interceptor drain.
    • Drip dispersal may be used to determine minimum subdivision lot size only when the rule's criteria are met: minimum depth to bedrock under 14 CAR § 21-602(b)(3), primary and secondary absorption areas flagged on contour, and legal descriptions of those areas included in the lots' legal descriptions.
    • Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size must be at least 0.5 acre.
    • If a city or county has no designated authorized agent, applications must be made to the Arkansas Department of Health.
    • The Code of Arkansas Rules page states that the official codified database became effective January 1, 2025, is updated weekly, and may not reflect recent rulemaking.

    minimum lot size using drip dispersal design: >= 0.5 acre (Applies only when all listed 14 CAR § 21-405(a)(6)(A) criteria are met.) · minimum undisturbed soil depth to brief seasonal water table for lots under 3 acres: >= 13 inches (For subdivision development lots less than three acres.) · minimum undisturbed soil depth to adjusted moderate seasonal water table for lots under 3 acres: >= 18 inches (For subdivision development lots less than three acres.) · minimum undisturbed soil depth to adjusted long seasonal water table for lots under 3 acres: >= 24 inches (For subdivision development lots less than three acres.) · advance installer notice: >= 24 hours (Emergency repairs may proceed without prior notice if a permit is obtained within 10 working days.) · emergency repair permit deadline: <= 10 working days (Applies when emergency repairs were undertaken without the required advance notice.)

    “Construction of any type shall not begin upon any lot in the subdivision until final approval of the submission for utilization of onsite wastewater systems within the subdivision has been made by the Department of Health.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Subdivision development using onsite wastewater systems in Arkansas, including applicable subdivisions in Lee County.
      “Construction of any type shall not begin”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision development and construction on subdivision lots in unincorporated Lee County when onsite wastewater systems are proposed.
      “Construction of any type shall not begin upon any lot in the subdivision until final approval [...] has been made by the Department of Health.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats creating parcels in unincorporated Lee County, subject to any applicable county recording requirements.
      “Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office after any recording requirements with city and/or county government.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — New subdivisions in unincorporated Lee County containing 50 or more lots, located in whole or in part within 2,640 feet of a lake or stream, and not connected to a public sanitary sewer collection and treatment system.
      “fifty (50) or more lots [...] within two thousand six hundred forty feet (2,640’) of any lake or stream”
    • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Arkansas state capital improvement projects in a flood-prone area, including such projects located in Lee County.
      “The Design Review Section shall review all capital improvement projects to determine whether the proposed development will be reasonably safe from flooding. If the proposed site is within a flood-prone area, a development permit shall be submitted and approved prior to releasing the project for bidding or construction.”
  • 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%”
  • 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”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping at Arkansas state-park campsites.

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

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

    “Campers may not occupy campsites within the same park in excess of fourteen (14) days within a thirty-day period.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Temporary or transient camping in a recreational-vehicle park in Lee County, where three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee.
      “(8) “Recreational vehicle park” means a parcel of land, for which plans have been approved by the Department of Health, where three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles for transient dwelling purposes, typically by night or week, commonly associated with travel to, at, or near an attraction;”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • Local zoning — Whether zoning exists in Lee County, Arkansas, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.
  • Zoning districts — Zoning districts applicable in Lee County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size for residential buildings in unincorporated Lee County.
  • Setbacks — Setback requirements for development in unincorporated Lee County, Arkansas.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage limits in unincorporated Lee County.
4 more unanswered
  • Building height
  • 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 Lee County, Arkansas

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

Lee County scores 71/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

Lee County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Section. 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 Lee County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Lee County is limited to specific cases: Statewide rule. Occupancy of three or more recreational-vehicle spaces on a parcel in Lee County where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee. The parcel is treated as a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR pt. 138. The owner or operator is responsible for compliance. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Lee County, Arkansas?

Land in Lee County runs about $3,431 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Lee County?

Lee County gets about 52.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.1% of years.

How remote is Lee County?

A representative private-land location has about 14,898 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,349,526 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 Lee compares in Arkansas

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