Bolthole Index

Montgomery County, Arkansas

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

68Index Score / 100
#62 of 75 in Arkansas

We could not confirm an official residential building-permit requirement for unincorporated Montgomery County, Arkansas, so ask the county before building1. Arkansas building-code standards still apply even in places where permits or inspections are not required2. Septic systems require state review, inspection and approval34.

At a glance

Building permit
No official requirement confirmed; ask the county before building1
Zoning
Countywide zoning could not be confirmed5
Septic permit
Handled by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent3
Owner-builder
State contractor-license exemption is available for your own residence, subject to conditions6
RV / tiny home
Private-land occupancy could not be confirmed; paid parks have separate state rules78
Private well
A county permit requirement could not be confirmed9
Minimum lot size / setbacks
No countywide rule was confirmed5

Who to call

Also useful

Montgomery County government

General county contact for questions about permits, zoning, county-road access and floodplain administration

870-867-3521

105 Highway 270 East Mount Ida, AR 71957

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health - Montgomery County Local Health Unit

Local Arkansas Department of Health contact for Montgomery County; ask for the Onsite Environmental Specialist for septic permitting

(870) 867-2331

346 Luzerne, Mount Ida, AR 71957

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

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Montgomery 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 Montgomery County, Arkansas?

We could not confirm an official residential building-permit requirement for unincorporated Montgomery County1. Verify the answer before ordering materials or starting work. Arkansas expressly recognizes that some areas have no permit or inspection requirement, yet the state building-code requirements still apply there210. The applicable statewide framework is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including its building and residential provisions; the current edition is the 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code1112. Call Montgomery County government at 870-867-3521 and ask whether your unincorporated parcel needs a residential permit, inspection or certificate of occupancy13. If the parcel is inside a municipality, ask that city separately because a city rule does not establish the rule for unincorporated Montgomery County.

Who handles building and land-use questions in Montgomery County?

No dedicated Montgomery County building, inspection, planning or zoning office could be confirmed. The official Arkansas county portal gives the county's general contact as 870-867-3521 at 105 Highway 270 East in Mount Ida13. Start there and ask which office has jurisdiction over the parcel, then request a written answer on building permits, inspections, occupancy approval, zoning, setbacks, floodplain review and access from a county road. For a driveway entering an Arkansas state highway, the Arkansas Department of Transportation requires an access-driveway permit before work begins on state right-of-way14. The county-road process could not be confirmed, so ask the county contact rather than assuming the state-highway procedure covers a local road.

Does Montgomery County have zoning?

We could not confirm countywide zoning for unincorporated Montgomery County, Arkansas5. That uncertainty also leaves general county rules on minimum dwelling size, minimum lot size, setbacks, lot coverage and building height unconfirmed. Do not read the absence of a published zoning office as permission for any use. Call Montgomery County government at 870-867-3521 with the parcel number and ask which jurisdiction controls the property13. A property inside Mount Ida or another municipality may face municipal rules that do not apply to unincorporated land. Even where no local land-use rule applies, Arkansas building-code standards remain a separate compliance issue11. An owner building the owner's own residence may qualify for the state contractor-licensing exemption, but that exemption does not erase any applicable code, permit, inspection or zoning requirement6. The exemption covers a person building their own residence unless they build more than 1 residence in a calendar year, and work costing $2,000 or less, but it does not cover septic permits or building codes15.

How do septic permits work in Montgomery County?

The Arkansas Department of Health handles onsite wastewater systems in Montgomery County, either directly or through an Authorized Agent3. Part I of the state application is the Permit for Construction and must be completed by a Designated Representative and approved before construction begins16. The Department's review fee is payable before Part I is issued, runs from $30 for a structure of 1,500 square feet or less up to $150 over 4,000 square feet, and is not refunded if you do not proceed; construction must begin within 1 year of issuance or the permit must be revalidated17. The system must then be inspected and approved, and the owner must receive a Permit for Operation before using it4. Start with the Montgomery County Local Health Unit at (870) 867-2331 and ask for the Onsite Environmental Specialist18. Soil deserves early attention: only 4.6% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so a site evaluation may materially affect the system design and land budget19. For a subdivided lot with its own well and septic system, the well must sit at least 50 feet from the lot line and at least 100 feet from the onsite wastewater system20. If an available sanitary sewer lies within 300 feet of where the sewer exits the building and connection does not cross another person's property, connection is required instead21.

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

We could not confirm whether Montgomery County allows long-term RV living, temporary camping or tiny-home occupancy on a single private parcel. Arkansas's health rules answer a narrower question: a parcel with 3 or more paid spaces intended for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes is treated as a regulated park7. Those park rules do not establish permission for one RV or tiny home on private land. Under the same state framework, a tiny house on wheels is treated as a mobile home when plumbed and inspected under the Arkansas Plumbing Code and as an RV when it is not22. Before relying on either structure as a residence, ask Montgomery County government about land use and the Montgomery County Local Health Unit about wastewater1318.

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

  1. Call Montgomery County government at 870-867-3521 with the parcel number and confirm jurisdiction, permits, inspections, zoning, setbacks, floodplain review and county-road access13.
  1. Arrange a septic site evaluation early because only 4.6% of county soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field19.
  1. Contact the Montgomery County Local Health Unit at (870) 867-2331 and ask for the Onsite Environmental Specialist18. Obtain the approved Permit for Construction before installing septic, then pass inspection and receive the Permit for Operation before use164.
  1. Design the home to the applicable Arkansas Fire Prevention Code provisions even if the county confirms that no local permit is required112.
  1. If the driveway enters a state highway, obtain the state access permit before working in the right-of-way14.
  1. If acting as your own contractor, confirm that the state owner-builder licensing exemption fits your project6.

What should you check before buying land in Montgomery County?

Start with wastewater feasibility: only 4.6% of Montgomery County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field19. Terrain also matters, because 51.1% of county land is at a slope of 15% or less, while 83.7% is wooded2324. Verify legal access and identify whether the entrance will meet a county road or state highway; state-highway access requires an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit14. Check flood status with the county because a local floodplain process could not be confirmed. Private-well permitting is also unconfirmed; the state approval rule in the available research covers public and semi-public wells, not a general private domestic well9. For carrying costs, the effective property-tax rate is about 0.4%, the median annual bill is $522, and typical home insurance is about $1,730 per year252627.

Watch-outs

  • An official residential building-permit requirement could not be confirmed; ask Montgomery County government at 870-867-3521 about the rule for your parcel113.
  • Countywide zoning, setbacks, minimum dwelling size and minimum lot size could not be confirmed for unincorporated Montgomery County5.
  • Only 4.6% of Montgomery County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so complete the site evaluation before committing to a house location19.
  • State rules for paid RV and tiny-home parks do not answer whether one RV or tiny home may be occupied on a private parcel7.

Sources

  1. Arkansas.gov - Montgomery County offices (2026 county census)
  2. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  3. Onsite Wastewater, quoted and re-checked
  4. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  5. (2026 county census)
  6. Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules and Statutes (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  7. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  8. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  9. 17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Current Applicable State Codes in Arkansas, quoted and re-checked
  13. Montgomery County government (portal.arkansas.gov)
  14. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Arkansas Residential Contractor Law revised August 2025, quoted and re-checked
  16. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  17. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  18. Arkansas Department of Health - Montgomery County Local Health Unit (healthy.arkansas.gov)
  19. 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
  20. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  21. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  22. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  24. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  25. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  26. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  27. Typical home insurance premium: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like 5 of its 6 neighbors, Montgomery County requires no county building permit for a home.

RuleMontgomery CountyPike CountyScott CountyPolk CountyGarland CountyHoward CountyYell County
Building permitNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot required
County zoningNot publishedNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADH

County locator

Montgomery County in Arkansas

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

How Montgomery County scores

Seclusion91100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency46100% ev.
Admin Boringness7177% ev.
Durability40100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost85100% 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 →

$223kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$3,481Land / acre
57.3"Annual rain
11.4% of yrsSevere drought
19.7 / yr (+16)Mid-century 100°F days
17.9 daysMid-century dry spell
2.83" (+7.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.43×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,730Home insurance / yr
-0.3% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
920People within 30 min
358,888People within 2 hr
10,002Radius comparison (15 mi)
11People / sq mi
69.7%Federal land
51.1%Land at 15% slope or less
4.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
22,183 acWorkable land screen
83.7%Wooded land
51.7 tonsBiomass / forest ac
60.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Montgomery 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 Black Springs · Mount Ida · Town of Norman · Town of Oden

Answers from the rulebook for Montgomery 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)

    Residential-builder and home-improvement-contractor licensing requirements for owner-builders in Montgomery County and elsewhere in Arkansas.

    • A person constructing his or her own 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 project costing no more than $2,000 is exempt from the licensing requirements; this exception does not apply when the work is divided into separate contracts of less than $2,000.
    • The exemption concerns state contractor licensing requirements and does not establish an exemption from building permits, inspections, building codes, septic permits, or other local or state requirements.

    maximum project cost for listed licensing exemption: <= 2000 USD (The exception does not apply when construction work necessary to complete the project is divided into separate contracts of amounts less than $2,000.) · maximum residences constructed by an owner-builder under the personal-residence exemption: <= 1 residence per calendar year (The person is exempt unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year.)

    “The following shall be exempted from the licensing requirements of this subchapter: (1) A person who acts as a residential building contractor”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — Owner-builders in Arkansas, including owners constructing or improving a residence in Montgomery County, Arkansas, with respect to the residential contractor licensing requirements in Arkansas Code § 17-25-513.
      “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;”
    • Available — Owner construction of the owner's residence and an owner acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's property, including in Montgomery County.
      “owners are exempt from licensure [...] (2) owners acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property”
    • Available (with conditions) — Arkansas residential contractor licensing for an individual constructing the individual’s own residence or an owner of a single-family residence acting as the owner’s own home-improvement contractor on the owner’s property.
      “construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year;”
  • Building code 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 — Arkansas building and residential code framework, including projects in Montgomery County.
      “Part 15. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Rules”
    • 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

    Lots in subdivisions using onsite wastewater systems in Montgomery County.

    • The rule is a wastewater-siting standard, not a general county zoning minimum.
    • Lots less than three acres in subdivision development must satisfy specified soil-depth conditions.
    • Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot-size calculations must be at least 0.5 acres.

    lot size threshold for specified soil-depth standards: < 3 acres (applies to lots proposed for subdivision development) · minimum lot size using drip dispersal design: >= 0.5 acres

    “Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be 0.5 acres or larger.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Subdivision lots with an individual water well and onsite wastewater system in Montgomery County.

    • The requirements apply to the relationship between the well, lot lines, and onsite wastewater systems.
    • Additional onsite-wastewater setback requirements under § 6.2 also apply.

    well setback from lot line: >= 50 feet · well setback from onsite wastewater system: >= 100 feet (also applies to systems proposed on adjacent lots)

    “If an individual water well supply and an onsite wastewater system are proposed, the lot size shall be such that the well shall be located at least 50 feet from any lot line, and at least 100 feet from any part of the onsite wastewater system proposed on the same lot and onsite wastewater systems proposed on any adjacent lots.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational-vehicle parks and mobile-home parks in Montgomery County that fall within Arkansas Department of Health Part 138; this does not establish a countywide rule for a single RV on private land outside a regulated park.
      “where three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles for transient dwelling purposes, typically by night or week”
  • Tiny homesLimited

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

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

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

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

    Onsite wastewater systems in Montgomery County, administered under Arkansas Department of Health rules and its authorized agents.

    • The Arkansas Department of Health program sets statewide policies and assists Environmental Health Specialists in county health departments.
    • Where a city or county has an Authorized Agent, that agent acts for the Department; otherwise applications are made to the Department.
    “The Arkansas Department of Health’s Onsite Wastewater program sets statewide policies and provides assistance to Environmental Health Specialists in each of the county health departments.”
  • 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 serving property in Montgomery County.
      “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.”
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of an onsite wastewater system in Montgomery County when the system is owned by another person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency.
      “owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction”
    • Required — Operation of an onsite wastewater system in Montgomery County.
      “owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation”
  • 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 and installation inspection of onsite wastewater systems in Montgomery 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
    • Prohibited — Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta on premises in Montgomery County where a sanitary 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.
      “No privies, onsite wastewater systems [...] shall be constructed”
  • 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 Montgomery County using onsite wastewater systems.

    • Connection to sanitary sewer is required when the sewer is within 300 feet from where it exits a building and available to the premises.
    • Connection must be possible without crossing another person's property.
    • When those conditions apply, privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.

    distance from building sewer exit: <= 300 feet (Only when sanitary sewer is available and connection can be made without crossing another person's property.)

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property. 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
    • Conditional — Premises using onsite wastewater systems in Montgomery County.
      “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 landLimited

    Subdivision plans in Montgomery County that propose standard onsite wastewater systems for some or all lots or tracts.

    • All such subdivision plans must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall onsite-wastewater plan.
    • Unsuitable lots must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
    • Submission is to the local health unit and includes soil pits, percolation tests where applicable, test locations, topography, and other required information.
    “All subdivision plans, which are proposed to utilize standard onsite wastewater systems as a method of wastewater treatment for all or part of the lots or tracts in said subdivision, shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall plan for the utilization of onsite wastewater systems.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats that are boundary surveys creating parcels in Arkansas.
      “Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office [...] Filing is not required [...] for survey plats [...] located in a municipality [...]”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    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 (with conditions)

    Published Arkansas Department of Health plan-review fees for individual onsite wastewater permit applications applicable in Montgomery County.

    • Plan-review fees are collected when plans are submitted and before review.
    • The review fee must be paid before issuance of Part 1 of the Permit Application.
    • There is no refund if the applicant fails to proceed under the permit application.
    • Construction must begin within one year of issuance or the permit must be re-validated by the original submitting Designated Representative or the Department's Authorized Agent.
    • For residential square-footage calculations, auxiliary areas are excluded; auxiliary areas include garages, carports, porches, and other similar areas determined by the Division of Environmental Health Protection.

    individual permit review fee for structure 1500 square feet or less: 30 USD · individual permit review fee for structure more than 1500 and up to 2000 square feet: 45 USD · individual permit review fee for structure more than 2000 and up to 3000 square feet: 90 USD · individual permit review fee for structure more than 3000 and up to 4000 square feet: 120 USD · individual permit review fee for structure more than 4000 square feet: 150 USD · alteration, repair, or extension of an individual sewage disposal system permit review fee: 30 USD

    “Structures 1500 sq. feet or less $30.00 [...] 2000 sq. feet $45.00 [...] 3000 sq. feet $90.00 [...] 4000 sq. feet $120.00 [...] $150.00 [...] $30.00”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Arkansas Department of Health individual onsite-wastewater permit review fees applicable in Montgomery County.
      “A fee shall be levied for the review of each permit. Permit fees shall be made payable to the Department. The review fee shall be paid before the issuance of Part 1 of the Permit Application.”
    • Published — Arkansas Department of Health onsite wastewater permit-review fees applicable to Montgomery County cases.
      “A fee shall be levied for the review of each permit. Permit fees shall be made payable to the Department. The review fee shall be paid before the issuance of Part 1 of the Permit Application. There shall be no refund of the fee or any part thereof due to failure to proceed under the Permit Application. Construction shall begin within one year of issuance or the permit shall be re-validated by the original submitting Designated Representative or the Department’s Authorized Agent.”
    • 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 (with conditions) — Arkansas onsite-wastewater permit processing applicable in Montgomery 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 — Onsite wastewater permitting for Montgomery 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. [...] Part II of the Permit Application is the installation inspection. [...] Part III of the Permit is the Permit for Operation. 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.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping at Arkansas state-park campsites.

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

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

    “Campers may not occupy campsites within the same park in excess of fourteen (14) days within a thirty-day period.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

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

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

Still unanswered

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

  • County-wide zoning — Countywide zoning in Montgomery County.
  • Local zoning — Aggregate local zoning controls in Montgomery County, including municipal or other subordinate jurisdictions.
  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in Montgomery County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Montgomery County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in Montgomery County.
5 more unanswered
  • Building height
  • Camping on your land
  • Manufactured homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

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

Living off-grid in Montgomery County, Arkansas

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

Montgomery County scores 68/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 920 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

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

Montgomery County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Program (local Montgomery County Health Unit). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

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

Land in Montgomery County runs about $3,481 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Montgomery County?

Montgomery County gets about 57.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 11.4% of years.

How remote is Montgomery County?

A representative private-land location has about 920 people within a 30-minute drive and 358,888 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 Montgomery compares in Arkansas

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