Bolthole Index

Pulaski County, Arkansas

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Pulaski County, Arkansas

56Index Score / 100
#74 of 75 in Arkansas

In unincorporated Pulaski County, Arkansas, the county's published building-permit application covers the Lake Maumelle Watershed, and we could not confirm a county building permit elsewhere, so ask Pulaski County Planning & Development about the parcel12. Little Rock, North Little Rock, Jacksonville and Maumelle run their own building permits and zoning. Septic permits for every address come from the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent3.

At a glance

Building permit
Lake Maumelle Watershed application published; ask about other areas14
Zoning
County districts apply in the unincorporated Lake Maumelle Watershed; rules elsewhere vary56
Cities with own permits and zoning
Little Rock, North Little Rock, Jacksonville and Maumelle78910
Septic permits
Construction and operation permits from the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent1112
Owner-builder
Limited state contractor-license and primary-residence electrical exemptions1314
Septic soil suitability
13.5% of soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field15
Subdivision lot size
Varies by water and sewage service16
Manufactured homes
Permitted or conditional by watershed district17
RV or tiny-home residence
Flood-zone limits and state tiny-house-on-wheels classification apply; general residence not confirmed1819

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Pulaski County Planning & Development

Zoning, floodplain development, subdivision review and building/development permits for unincorporated Pulaski County, including the separate Lake Maumelle Watershed zoning and permitting program

501-340-8260

3200 Brown St, Little Rock, AR 72204

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health - Environmental Health (Onsite Wastewater Program)

Statewide onsite wastewater (septic) program office, located in Pulaski County, that works with each county's local Environmental Specialist to review and issue septic construction and operation permits

501-6612171

4815 W. Markham Street, Slot 46, Little Rock, AR 72205

Roads & driveways

Pulaski County Road & Bridge Department

Issues driveway permits and maintains roads and bridges in unincorporated Pulaski County

501-340-6800

3200 Brown Street, Little Rock, AR 72204

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

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

Pulaski County publishes a registration/building-permit application specifically for the Lake Maumelle Watershed1. Development there that is not deemed permitted through registration requires an application to the Zoning Administrator20. We could not confirm a general county building-permit requirement for the rest of unincorporated Pulaski County, so give Planning & Development the parcel number and proposed work2. The county's rules here apply to unincorporated Pulaski County; inside Little Rock7, North Little Rock8, Jacksonville9 and Maumelle10, the city issues building permits. Septic permits stay with the Arkansas Department of Health, city or not3. Arkansas requires a county or municipality that issues permits for new construction to adopt the state code, while the state code also applies in rural and unincorporated areas2122. The energy code similarly requires adoption by counties and municipalities that issue new-construction permits23. An owner acting as contractor on the owner's residence has a limited licensing exemption, but other building, zoning and septic requirements still apply24.

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

Pulaski County Planning & Development is the first call for zoning, floodplain development, building permits and fees2. The office is at 3200 Brown St, Little Rock, and its phone number is 501-340-82602. Its published forms cover Lake Maumelle registration/building permits and conditional uses, plus site-plan and subdivision review, but they do not establish one universal process for every parcel25. A watershed building-permit application goes to the Zoning Administrator20. The county publishes its planning fee schedule as Ordinance 82-OR-2926. Preliminary and final plat review in unincorporated areas costs a $100 base fee per application plus $3 per unit for 5 to 40 units, $2 per unit for 41 to 100 units and $1 per unit beyond that; a minor subdivision of 4 units or fewer is $10, and site plan review is $10027. For floodplain permit fees, call Planning & Development272. A subdivider must submit plats and improvement plans to the Planning Board, obtain preliminary approval before site work, and obtain final approval before conveying lots2829. For county-road questions, contact Road & Bridge at 501-340-680030.

Does Pulaski County have zoning?

Pulaski County zoning applies in the Lake Maumelle Watershed portion of unincorporated Pulaski County31. The watershed code establishes Conservation, Village, Low Impact Planned Residential and Non-Residential districts, and the zoning map designates the applicable area32533. The county's zoning does not govern city land: Little Rock34, North Little Rock35, Jacksonville36 and Maumelle37 each zone inside their own limits. Elsewhere, municipal extra-territorial rules may apply6. Watershed setbacks, height limits and dimensional standards vary by district383940. In the Village District, the minimum lot is 20,000 square feet or the subdivision code's requirement, whichever is greater; Conservation district lot size follows the subdivision code4142. Subdivision minimums also depend on water and sewage service43. A watershed accessory dwelling without central sewer needs a septic tank approved by the Arkansas Department of Health44. We could not confirm a general minimum dwelling size; ask Planning & Development for the parcel's district2.

How do septic permits work in Pulaski County?

The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent administers onsite wastewater permits statewide, including Pulaski County3. Where no Authorized Agent has been designated for the county, applications go straight to the Department12. A Permit for Construction must be issued before anyone builds, alters, repairs or extends an onsite wastewater system, and a Permit for Operation before it is used1145. The installer must give the Authorized Agent at least 24 hours' notice before starting work, and a plan-review fee is payable before Part 1 of the application is issued, with no refund if the applicant does not proceed46. The installer must also call for inspection when the installation is ready, and the system cannot be used until its operation permit is issued4748. A permit may be refused where public sewer is reasonably available or economically feasible46. A premises within 300 feet of an available sanitary sewer must connect when connection does not cross another person's property, and a septic system cannot be built or used there4649. A proposed subdivision within 300 feet of public sanitary sewer must connect each lot50. Only 13.5% of Pulaski County soils avoid a severe USDA limitation for conventional drain fields, so make wastewater approval an early contingency15. State-authorized pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets remain part of the regulated onsite-wastewater system51.

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

We could not confirm a general Pulaski County rule allowing long-term RV living or temporary camping on a private parcel. In mapped flood zones A1-30, AH and AE, an RV must stay fewer than 180 consecutive days, remain licensed and highway-ready, or meet floodplain permit, elevation and anchoring requirements18. Arkansas classifies a tiny house on wheels as a mobile home if it is plumbed and inspected under the state plumbing code, and as an RV if it is not19. That classification does not itself authorize residential use on a parcel. Ask Planning & Development about watershed zoning, extra-territorial rules and floodplain status62. Manufactured homes are permitted in the watershed Conservation district and conditional in the Village and Low Impact Planned Residential districts, subject to wastewater conditions17.

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

  1. Give Planning & Development the parcel number and ask which zoning district, extra-territorial, floodplain and fee rules apply3362.
  2. For a Lake Maumelle Watershed parcel, determine whether registration is enough or file the building-permit application with the Zoning Administrator20.
  3. Confirm the lot-size standard because subdivision minimums vary with water and sewage service, while the watershed may impose a larger district minimum1642.
  4. Determine whether sewer connection is mandatory; otherwise obtain septic construction approval, inspection and an operation permit before use5045.
  5. If subdividing, submit plats and improvement plans and obtain approval before site work or lot sales2852.
  6. Confirm legal access because a landlocked subdivision lot needs an ingress-and-egress easement on the survey or plat53.
  7. If doing electrical work yourself, confirm the limited primary-residence exemption and any state or local conditions14.

What to check before you buy land in Pulaski County

Check the parcel's watershed status, official zoning-map district, extra-territorial jurisdiction, setbacks and floodplain status before making an offer336382. For a new subdivision, minimum lot size ranges from 6,000 square feet with qualifying shared systems to one acre with a private well and individual sewage disposal16. A proposed subdivision within 300 feet of public sanitary sewer must connect each lot50. The county has no obligation to extend addressing or utility service to a parcel or building created in violation of its subdivision rules54. Make the offer contingent on an acceptable wastewater plan because only 13.5% of Pulaski County soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field15. Confirm access because a landlocked subdivision lot needs an ingress-and-egress easement on the survey or plat53. A state-highway driveway requires a state permit55.

Watch-outs

  • The published registration/building-permit application is limited to the Lake Maumelle Watershed; ask Planning & Development whether work elsewhere in unincorporated Pulaski County needs a county building permit12.
  • Pulaski County's watershed districts and subdivision rules can control setbacks, height, lot size, grading and lot sales before construction starts4038394229.
  • Arkansas's owner-builder exemptions are limited: the contractor-license exemption does not erase other requirements, and the electrical exemption covers work by an individual on that individual's primary residence subject to state and local rules5614.

Sources

  1. Registration/Building Permit Application | Pulaski County Planning and Development, quoted and re-checked
  2. Pulaski County Planning & Development (pulaskicounty.net)
  3. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  4. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code (2026 county census)
  5. Pulaski County | Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  6. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  7. Little Rock: official source (Pulaski County), quoted and re-checked
  8. North Little Rock: North Little Rock Municipal Code Chapter 4: Buildings and Building Regulations (Pulaski County), quoted and re-checked
  9. Jacksonville: JMC 18.12.070 Building permit—Required (Pulaski County), quoted and re-checked
  10. Maumelle: Planning & Permits (Pulaski County), quoted and re-checked
  11. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  12. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  13. State of Arkansas Home Improvement New Application (2026 county census)
  14. 17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions, quoted and re-checked
  15. 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
  16. Pulaski County Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  17. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  18. Pulaski County Code § 7-52, Specific standards, quoted and re-checked
  19. 20 CAR § 138-101, Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  20. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  21. Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  22. State of Arkansas Home Improvement New Application — Building Code Information, quoted and re-checked
  23. 2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  24. State of Arkansas Home Improvement New Application, quoted and re-checked
  25. Planning & Development | Pulaski County, quoted and re-checked
  26. Planning Fees & Schedules Ordinance 82-0R-29, quoted and re-checked
  27. Planning Fees & Schedules Ordinance 82-OR-29, quoted and re-checked
  28. Pulaski County Subdivision and Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  29. Pulaski County Subdivision and Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  30. Pulaski County Road & Bridge Department (pulaskicounty.net)
  31. Pulaski County | Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  32. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  33. Pulaski County | Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  34. Little Rock: Divisions - City of Little Rock (Pulaski County), quoted and re-checked
  35. North Little Rock: City of North Little Rock Zoning Ordinance (Pulaski County), quoted and re-checked
  36. Jacksonville: Engineering & Planning (Pulaski County), quoted and re-checked
  37. Maumelle: Sec. 94-163. Use regulation (Pulaski County), quoted and re-checked
  38. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  39. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  40. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  41. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  42. Pulaski County | Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  43. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  44. Pulaski County Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code, quoted and re-checked
  45. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  46. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  47. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  48. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  49. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  50. Pulaski County Subdivision and Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  51. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  52. Planning Fees & Schedules Ordinance 82-OR-29 | Pulaski County, quoted and re-checked
  53. Pulaski County Subdivision and Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  54. Pulaski County Subdivision and Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  55. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  56. Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules and Statutes (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike all 6 of its neighbors, Pulaski County requires a building permit for a home.

RulePulaski CountySaline CountyFaulkner CountyLonoke CountyGrant CountyPerry CountyJefferson County
Building permitRequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredLimited
County zoningYesNoNot publishedNoNoNoNot published
Septic permitsADHAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Pulaski County in Arkansas

56
County map
Pulaski County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Pulaski County scores

Seclusion30100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency68100% ev.
Admin Boringness50100% ev.
Durability53100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% 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 →

$213kTypical home
0.8%Property tax
$4,602Land / acre
53.1"Annual rain
8.8% of yrsSevere drought
23.5 / yr (+18.4)Mid-century 100°F days
17.5 daysMid-century dry spell
2.68" (+7.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.42×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$2,029Home insurance / yr
0.4% / yrInsurance growth
0.68%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
359,956People within 30 min
1,717,056People within 2 hr
289,502Radius comparison (15 mi)
527.5People / sq mi
13%Federal land
79.5%Land at 15% slope or less
13.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
54,529 acWorkable land screen
64.3%Wooded land
54.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Pulaski County

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

Not yet researched: Cammack Village · Wrightsville

Answers from the rulebook for Pulaski County

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

Pulaski County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Development in the Lake Maumelle Watershed that is not deemed permitted through the registration process.

    • The property owner or agent must file a building-permit application with the Zoning Administrator.
    • The application must include ownership, title, survey or parcel data, legal description, boundaries, proposed uses, and building dimensions.
    • The permit is subject to the zoning code and conditions of any rezoning, conditional-use permit, subdivision plat, or site plan.
    • Construction must commence within one year after the permit’s effective date unless an extension is timely obtained.
    “For any development not deemed permitted pursuant to Section 4.7.A.2., the property owner or agent of the property owner shall file an application for a Building Permit with the Zoning Administrator.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use and development in the Lake Maumelle Watershed portion of unincorporated Pulaski County.

    • The code applies only to the portion of the Lake Maumelle Watershed in unincorporated Pulaski County.
    • Within municipal extra-territorial jurisdiction, applicability is only to the extent permitted by applicable state law.
    “This Code applies to the use or development of land located in that portion of the Lake Maumelle Watershed that is located in the unincorporated portions of Pulaski County.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate county result: county zoning applies in the Lake Maumelle Watershed and municipal zoning or extra-territorial rules may apply elsewhere.

    • This aggregate does not claim that Pulaski County administers every municipal ordinance.
    • The Subdivision and Development Code states that municipal planning-area plats must conform to municipal standards and that the most restrictive rules apply.
    “Where unincorporated portions of Pulaski County lie within the extra-territorial jurisdiction (ETJ) of a municipality, this Code applies within the ETJ as set forth in Arkansas Code Annotated (A.C.A.) §§ 14-56-413 or any other applicable state law or statute, to the extent permitted by law.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Unincorporated Lake Maumelle Watershed zoning districts administered by Pulaski County.
      “The following zoning districts are established within the unincorporated portions of the Lake Maumelle Watershed: A. Conservation (C) B. Village (V) C. Low Impact Planned Residential Development (LI) D. Non-Residential (NR)”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Lake Maumelle Watershed zoning districts in unincorporated Pulaski County.

    • The official code identifies Conservation, Village, Low Impact Planned Residential, and Non-Residential districts and provides a use matrix and dimensional standards.
    • The zoning map designates the applicable area.
    “The following zoning districts are established within the unincorporated portions of the Lake Maumelle Watershed: A. Conservation (C) B. Village (V) C. Low Impact Planned Residential Development (LI) D. Non-Residential (NR)”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Lake Maumelle Watershed zoning districts in Pulaski County.
      “All development within the Village District shall comply with the following standards: Table 2 Village (V) District Dimensional Standards”
    • Published (with conditions) — Zoning districts in the unincorporated Lake Maumelle Watershed.
      “The zoning district boundaries are established on the Official Zoning Map. The Official Zoning Map is considered a part of this chapter. The Planning Director maintains the Official Zoning Map.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Subdivision lots governed by the Pulaski County Subdivision Regulations.

    • The standards depend on the available and utilized water and sewage systems.
    • A public centralized water and sewer system must be of adequate capacity.
    • A public centralized water system with individual sewage disposal requires the larger minimum.
    • Private wells used with individual sewage disposal require one acre.
    • A private water system and private sewage treatment system must have adequate capacity.

    minimum lot size with adequate public centralized water and sewer: 6000 square feet · minimum lot size with adequate public centralized water and individual sewage disposal: 20000 square feet · minimum lot size with private wells and individual sewage disposal: 1 acre · minimum lot size with adequate private water and private sewage treatment: 6000 square feet

    “Where a public, centralized water and sewer system of adequate capacity are available and will be utilized for the proposed development, the minimum lot size shall be 6,000 square feet. Where a public, centralized water system of adequate capacity is available and will be utilized, and where individual sewage disposal systems will be utilized, the minimum lot size shall be 20,000 square feet. Where no public centralized water system of adequate capacity is available and where private wells will be utilized in conjunction with individual sewage disposal systems, the minimum lot size shall be one-acre. Where a private water system and a private sewage treatment system of adequate capacity are to be utilized for a proposed subdivision, the minimum lot size shall be 6,000 square feet.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Residential development in the Lake Maumelle Watershed zoning districts.
      “Lot Size (minimum): 20,000 square feet or as required by the Subdivision and Development Code (§ 4.2.C), whichever is greater.”
    • Specified — Lake Maumelle Watershed zoning districts.
      “Lot Size (minimum): 20,000 square feet or as required by the Subdivision and Development Code (§ 4.2.C), whichever is greater.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Village District within the unincorporated Lake Maumelle Watershed.
      “Lot Size (minimum): 20,000 square feet or as required by the Subdivision and Development Code (§ 4.2.C), whichever is greater.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Development subject to the Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code.

    • Applicable setbacks vary by zoning district and development standard.
    • The code prohibits encroachment into a setback established by the code.
    “Encroach into a setback established by this Code.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Development subject to the Lake Maumelle Watershed Zoning Code.

    • Applicable building-height limits are district-specific.
    • Construction exceeding a building height established by the code is a violation.
    “Exceed any building height established by this Code.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles placed on sites within Pulaski County flood hazard zones A1-30, AH, and AE on the community's FIRM.

    • The recreational vehicle must be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, or be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the permit requirements of section 7-33(a) and the elevation and anchoring requirements for a manufactured home under section 7-52(4).
    • The rule is limited to the specified flood hazard zones and does not establish a countywide rule for RV occupancy outside those zones.

    maximum site duration under one alternative: < 180 consecutive days (The alternative does not apply if the vehicle is fully licensed and ready for highway use or satisfies the permit, elevation, and anchoring requirements.)

    “(5) Recreational Vehicles. Require that recreational vehicles placed on sites within zones A1-30, AH and AE on the community's FIRM either (i) be on the site for fewer than one hundred eighty (180) consecutive days, (ii) be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or (iii) meet the permit requirements of 7-33 (a), and the elevation and anchoring requirements for "manufactured home" in paragraph (4) of this section.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes in the Lake Maumelle Watershed zoning districts in unincorporated Pulaski County.

    • The use matrix lists manufactured homes as permitted in the Conservation district.
    • The use matrix lists manufactured homes as conditional in the Village and Low Impact Planned Residential districts.
    • The matrix includes a wastewater condition for the applicable manufactured-home entries.
    • The code's applicability and any municipal ETJ treatment are governed by Section 1.4.
    “Note: P means permitted by right, S means that a Site Plan is required under the Subdivision Regulations, and C means Conditional Use. A blank cell means that the use is not permitted. [...] Manufactured home P C Wastewater”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units in the Lake Maumelle Watershed zoning area.

    • A principal structure must exist on the same lot, or a building permit for the principal structure must be issued at the same time.
    • An accessory dwelling unit not served by central sewer must include an Arkansas Department of Health-approved septic tank.
    • Accessory uses and structures are subject to all development requirements applicable to the principal use.
    “An Accessory Dwelling Unit that is not served by a central sewer system must include a septic tank that is approved by the Arkansas Department of Health.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Subdivision sanitary sewage and utility connections in unincorporated Pulaski County.

    • If a public sanitary sewer is within 300 feet of a proposed subdivision, the subdivider must connect and provide a connection to each lot.
    • If no public sanitary sewer is within 300 feet, an alternate compliant private or individual sewage system may be used.
    • Other utility lines must be located in platted alleys or dedicated utility easements, subject to the code.

    public sanitary sewer distance: <= 300 feet (proposed subdivision)

    “Where a public sanitary sewer is within 300 feet of a proposed subdivision, the subdivider shall connect with such sewer and provide a connection to each lot.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Utility extensions and addressing for parcels or buildings created or constructed in violation of the Pulaski County Subdivision and Development Code.
      “Pulaski County have any obligation to allow the addressing or the extension of utility services to any parcel or building created or constructed in violation of these regulations.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in the unincorporated portion of Pulaski County.

    • No construction, grading, clearing, or other ground preparation may begin before Preliminary Plat approval.
    • No title may be conveyed before Final Plat approval and acceptance.
    • Floodplain, stormwater, Lake Maumelle Watershed, and Master Road Plan ordinances may also apply.
    “No subdivider within the unincorporated portion of Pulaski County shall proceed with any construction or work on the proposed subdivision, including grading, clearing, or other ground preparations, before obtaining Preliminary Plat approval, and shall not convey title to any lot or lots before obtaining from the Pulaski County Planning Board Final Plat approval and acceptance of the plat.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Access for lots created through subdivision in unincorporated Pulaski County.

    • Proposed lots must have access to existing public roads for the immediate-family exclusion.
    • If a proposed lot would be landlocked, an ingress/egress easement must be granted and shown on the survey or plat.
    “If any lot of the proposed subdivision would result in a landlocked parcel, then an ingress/egress easement must be granted and shown on the survey/plat.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Pulaski County planning and development fees and schedules.

    • The county publishes a fee-schedule ordinance page; the amount applicable to a particular permit depends on the applicable schedule and permit type.
    “Preliminary and Final Plat Reviews (Unincorporated Areas of Pulaski County): Base Fee: $100.00 per application plus”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Pulaski County planning, subdivision, site-plan, and flood-development fees.
      “Preliminary and Final Plat Reviews (Unincorporated Areas of Pulaski County): Base Fee: $100.00 per application plus 5-40 units: $3.00/unit 41-100 units: $2.00/unit 100+ units: $1.00/unit”
    • Published (with conditions) — County planning plat-review fees for unincorporated Pulaski County.
      “Base Fee: $100.00 per application plus 5-40 units: $3.00/unit”
  • Permit processPartial

    Subdivision and development approval process in unincorporated Pulaski County.

    • Preliminary Plat approval is required before work begins on a proposed subdivision.
    • Final Plat approval and acceptance are required before conveying lots.
    • Applications may require plans, improvements, notices, surveys, and other materials under the code.
    “Any subdivider of land within the unincorporated portion of Pulaski County shall submit to the Pulaski County Planning Board plats of the subdivision and plans for the indicated improvements according to this code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Partial — Planning and land-use applications published for the Lake Maumelle Watershed and Pulaski County planning process.
      “Registration/Building Permit Application (Lake Maumelle Watershed Only) Conditional Use Permit Application (Lake Maumelle Watershed Only) Site Plan Review Application Subdivision Application”

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Owner-builders constructing their own residence or acting as their own home-improvement contractor on their own property in Arkansas, including unincorporated Pulaski County.

    • The exemption concerns residential builder and home-improvement licensing requirements, not an exemption from applicable building codes, zoning, septic, or permit requirements.
    • An owner acting as the contractor in construction of the owner’s residence is exempt unless the owner builds more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • An owner acting as the owner’s own home-improvement contractor must work on the owner’s own property.
    • The same source also lists exemptions for subcontractors working for properly licensed contractors and contractors licensed by other Arkansas licensing agencies or boards when performing work within the scope of that license.

    owner-built residences per calendar year: <= 1 residences (The source states the owner is exempt unless the owner builds more than one residence during any calendar year.)

    “exempt from licensure when acting as the contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one residence”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — An individual performing electrical work on that individual's primary residence, including in Pulaski County, subject to state law, rules, and local ordinances.
      “(a) The licensing requirements of Arkansas Code § 17-28-101 et seq. shall not apply to the following: [...] (6) The performance of electrical work on an individual's primary residence by that individual, except as otherwise may be required by: (A) State law; (B) Rules; or (C) Local ordinance.”
    • 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 adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Arkansas counties, cities, and municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction, including the applicable local government if Pulaski County issues such permits.

    • The rule applies to counties, cities, or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction.
    • Adoption covers new construction, additions, and renovation of existing structures.
    • The local municipality may not modify the energy-conservation standards or adopt less stringent rules.
    • The source states an adoption deadline of December 31, 2014 and an effective date of January 1, 2015 for the cited code text.

    adoption deadline: 12/31/2014 · effective date: 1/1/2015

    “All counties, cities or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt this Code”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Ordinary residential construction in Arkansas, including rural and unincorporated areas of Pulaski County.
      “The Code applies Statewide, even in rural and unincorporated areas.”
    • Partial — The Arkansas Energy Code for new building construction, additions, and renovations in counties or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction, including applicable Pulaski County areas.
      “All counties, cities or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt this Code”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures throughout Arkansas, under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including Volume II for building-code requirements and Volume III for residential-code requirements.
      “Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state shall only adopt and enforce the provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition. [...] The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the International Building Code Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the International Building Code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, shall be made in accordance therewith.”
    • Partial — 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.”
    • 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.”
  • 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 houses on wheels regulated under Arkansas Department of Health rules for mobile-home and recreational-vehicle parks, including any such facility in Pulaski County.
      “(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 (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater systems in Pulaski County.

    • The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent administers the permit process.
    • Where an Authorized Agent has not been designated, applications are made to the Department.
    “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department. In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in Pulaski County.
      “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.”
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in Arkansas, including Pulaski County.
      “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department. In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
  • Septic permitRequired

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

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

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

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

    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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installation inspections for onsite wastewater systems in Pulaski County.
      “It shall be the duty of the installer to notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative, when the installation is ready for inspection.”
    • Required — Installation of onsite wastewater systems in Pulaski County.
      “It shall be the duty of the installer to notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative, when the installation is ready for inspection.”
  • 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 — Onsite sanitation systems in Pulaski County where public sewer is unavailable or not reasonably available or economically feasible.
      “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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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;”
  • 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.”
  • 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.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Pulaski County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage limits in Pulaski County zoning districts, including the Lake Maumelle Watershed.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in unincorporated Pulaski County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in unincorporated Pulaski County.

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 Pulaski County, Arkansas

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

Pulaski County scores 56/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 53.1″/yr rainfall plus 64.3% wooded land. Watch-outs: about 359,956 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Pulaski County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) - Onsite Wastewater Program. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Pulaski County is limited to specific cases: Recreational vehicles placed on sites within Pulaski County flood hazard zones A1-30, AH, and AE on the community's FIRM. The recreational vehicle must be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, or be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the permit requirements of section 7-33(a) and the elevation and anchoring requirements for a manufactured home under section 7-52(4). The rule is limited to the specified flood hazard zones and does not establish a countywide rule for RV occupancy outside those zones. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Pulaski County, Arkansas?

Land in Pulaski County runs about $4,602 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Pulaski County?

Pulaski County gets about 53.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.8% of years.

How remote is Pulaski County?

A representative private-land location has about 359,956 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,717,056 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 Pulaski compares in Arkansas

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