Bolthole Index

Sebastian County, Arkansas

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

70Index Score / 100
#53 of 75 in Arkansas

Sebastian County, Arkansas requires a floodplain development permit before work in a mapped special flood hazard area; we could not confirm a general residential building permit elsewhere on unincorporated land.1 Fort Smith handles its own building permits and zoning, while Greenwood requires building permits for listed construction and maintains a zoning ordinance.2345 Septic approval remains with the Arkansas Department of Health, inside or outside city limits.6

At a glance

Building permit
Required for development in a mapped special flood hazard area; a general county permit outside those areas could not be confirmed7
City construction
Fort Smith handles building permits; Greenwood requires building permits for listed construction within the city24
County zoning
The county lists no zoning department and appears to apply no zoning to unincorporated land; confirm the parcel's jurisdiction8
Septic permit
State construction approval, inspection and an operation permit are required; sewer connection is mandatory within 300 feet of an available sewer6910
Septic soils
Only 2.9% of soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional drain field11
Owner-builder
A licensing exemption covers an owner building no more than 1 residence per calendar year, but does not waive permits or codes12
RV or tiny home
Private-parcel occupancy remains unconfirmed; fee-based parks with 3 or more spaces are state-regulated13

Who to call

Roads & driveways

Sebastian County Road Department

Maintenance of county roads and bridges, and utility or road-bore permits for work in the county road right-of-way; not a general building or zoning authority

479-996-4485

201 S. Coker, Greenwood, AR 72936

Also useful

Sebastian County Clerk

County recording, elections, and general administration; the office to ask whether any building or zoning approval currently applies to your parcel, since the county's site lists no dedicated building or zoning department

479-782-5065

35 So. 6th, Room 102, Fort Smith, AR 72901

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

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

Sebastian County requires a floodplain development permit before development in a mapped special flood hazard area, including structures, manufactured homes, clearing, grading, fill, excavation, drainage improvements and water or sewer installations.1 We could not confirm a general residential building permit outside those areas on unincorporated Sebastian County land; ask the County Clerk which office should review the parcel.14 Inside Fort Smith, the city handles building permits for construction, alterations, demolition, occupancy changes and regulated trade work, subject to minor-work exceptions.2 Greenwood requires building permits for residential construction, remodeling, trade work, accessory structures, fences and other listed projects within the city.15 Septic approval in either city remains with the Arkansas Department of Health.6 Arkansas's statewide building-code framework uses the 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including building and residential codes, effective January 1, 2023; that adoption does not establish a separate Sebastian County building-permit program.16

Who handles building permits in Sebastian County?

For unincorporated Sebastian County land, the County Clerk is the starting contact for identifying any general building approval that applies to the parcel.14 Floodplain development applications go to the Floodplain Administrator on county forms and may require scaled plans showing locations, dimensions and elevations of site changes and structures.7 Inside Fort Smith, apply to the city building official for required building permits.2 Greenwood lists building permits for residential construction and other construction-related work within the city.4 City building requirements do not transfer septic approval from the Arkansas Department of Health.6 The Sebastian County Road Department handles utility and road-bore permits; applicants may prepare the forms ahead of time but must contact the department to finalize the related work.1718 We could not confirm county-road driveway requirements, so ask the Road Department before planning an entrance.18

Does Sebastian County, Arkansas have zoning?

Unincorporated Sebastian County appears to have no county zoning controls; ask the County Clerk to confirm the parcel's jurisdiction and applicable land-use requirements.814 Fort Smith administers its own zoning, and Greenwood maintains a municipal zoning ordinance; those city answers do not establish rules for unincorporated land.319 Septic approval stays with the Arkansas Department of Health in either jurisdiction.6 Arkansas law authorizes at least an accessory dwelling unit on a single-family lot within incorporated municipalities, subject to applicable codes, zoning conditions and other requirements.20 An attached or detached ADU may not exceed 75% of the primary dwelling's gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less; the law does not establish an ADU entitlement on unincorporated Sebastian County land.20 We could not confirm minimum dwelling size, building setbacks, lot coverage or height limits for unincorporated land; ask the County Clerk before designing around an assumed absence of restrictions.14

How do septic permits work in Sebastian County?

The Arkansas Department of Health administers Sebastian County septic approval through its Environmental Health Specialist or another Authorized Agent, including addresses inside city limits.6 The owner must obtain approval of the septic application, plans and specifications before constructing the residence or septic system.9 The system must pass inspection and receive a Permit for Operation before use.21 Only 2.9% of Sebastian County soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional drain field, making a site evaluation an early purchase priority.11 Where sewer is available within 300 feet of the building's sewer exit and connection need not cross another person's property, connection is mandatory and onsite systems are prohibited.10 Septic facilities generally need at least 100 feet from a domestic water supply or stream or lake and 10 feet from a dwelling or property line, with greater distances where conditions demand.22 Subdivision lots using drip dispersal to determine minimum lot size must be at least 0.5 acre, meet the bedrock-depth condition and preserve identified primary and secondary absorption areas; that is a conditional wastewater standard, not a general county zoning minimum.23

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

We could not confirm a general Sebastian County rule allowing or prohibiting RV or tiny-home occupancy on a private homesite; ask the County Clerk for the applicable county authority before buying for that use.14 Arkansas regulates fee-based parks with 3 or more spaces intended for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes when placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee.13 Those parks need Arkansas Department of Health approval before construction, alteration, repair or extension; the park rule does not establish permission to live in an RV on a private homesite.13 Within that park context, a tiny house on wheels counts as a mobile home if plumbed and inspected under the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code, and as an RV otherwise.24 Arkansas's municipal ADU law offers a separate route for a qualifying accessory dwelling on a single-family lot within city limits, subject to codes and local requirements; it does not establish general RV occupancy permission.20

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

  1. Confirm jurisdiction: Fort Smith handles its own building permits and zoning, while Greenwood requires building permits for listed work and maintains municipal zoning.2345
  2. Check flood status before clearing or grading because Sebastian County requires approval before development in a mapped special flood hazard area.1
  3. Obtain Arkansas Department of Health septic-plan approval before residence construction and reserve suitable primary and secondary absorption areas.9
  4. Design to Arkansas's statewide building-code requirements, including rural and unincorporated areas.2516
  5. Obtain a state permit before driveway work on a state-highway right-of-way.26
  6. An owner building their own residence has a residential-contractor licensing exemption for no more than 1 residence per calendar year; required building permits, inspections and codes still apply.12
  7. Arrange septic inspection and receive the Permit for Operation before using the system.21

What should you check before buying land in Sebastian County?

Make septic feasibility a purchase contingency: only 2.9% of Sebastian County soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional drain field.11 Check the flood map before selecting a homesite or beginning clearing, grading or access work in a special flood hazard area.1 A driveway onto a state-highway right-of-way needs a state permit before work.26 Proposed subdivisions using standard onsite wastewater systems require Arkansas Department of Health review of the overall plan, soils and topography; unsuitable lots must be incorporated into surrounding parcels.27 A nonresidential farm structure has an exemption from specified state electrical-licensing requirements, which does not waive building, zoning, fire or septic rules.28 An owner improving their own single-family residence on their own property also has a residential home-improvement contractor licensing exemption.29 Sebastian County's effective property-tax rate is about 0.7%, and the median property-tax bill is about $1,081 per year.3031

Watch-outs

  • A mapped special flood hazard area changes the permit answer: Sebastian County requires a floodplain development permit before any development begins there7.
  • City limits change the answer: Fort Smith handles building permits and zoning, and Greenwood requires building permits for listed construction and maintains municipal zoning.2345
  • A septic system cannot operate until it passes inspection and the owner receives a Permit for Operation21.
  • The 0.5-acre septic minimum applies to subdivision lots using drip dispersal design; suitable soils and primary and secondary absorption areas are still required.23
  • Where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet and reachable without crossing another owner's land, Sebastian County premises must connect, and an onsite system is not allowed.10

Sources

  1. § 151.12 Establishment of Development Permit, quoted and re-checked
  2. Fort Smith: Building Safety FAQ (Sebastian County), quoted and re-checked
  3. Fort Smith: Fort Smith Code of Ordinances, § 27-403—Land use regulations (Sebastian County), quoted and re-checked
  4. greenwoodar.org, quoted and re-checked
  5. Planning & Development, quoted and re-checked
  6. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  7. § 151.13 Permit Procedures, quoted and re-checked
  8. Sebastian County Government (official county site) (2026 county census)
  9. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  10. 14 CAR § 21-301. Generally, quoted and re-checked
  11. 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
  12. Arkansas Residential Contractors Licensing Law, quoted and re-checked
  13. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance, quoted and re-checked
  14. Sebastian County Clerk (sebastiancountyar.gov)
  15. greenwoodar.org, quoted and re-checked
  16. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Rules Changes, quoted and re-checked
  17. Request for Service & Permits, quoted and re-checked
  18. Sebastian County Road Department (sebastiancountyar.gov)
  19. Planning & Development, quoted and re-checked
  20. Act 313 of 2025 — Accessory dwelling units, quoted and re-checked
  21. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  22. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  23. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  24. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  25. New Home Improvement Application, quoted and re-checked
  26. Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  28. 17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions, quoted and re-checked
  29. Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules, quoted and re-checked
  30. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  31. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleSebastian CountyCrawford CountyScott CountyFranklin CountyLogan CountyYell CountyJohnson County
Building permitLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthADHAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Sebastian County in Arkansas

70
County map
Sebastian County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Sebastian County scores

Seclusion51100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency62100% ev.
Admin Boringness85100% ev.
Durability50100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost81100% 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 →

$207kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$4,298Land / acre
51.7"Annual rain
12.5% of yrsSevere drought
30.1 / yr (+21.2)Mid-century 100°F days
19.2 daysMid-century dry spell
2.46" (+7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.45×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,677Home insurance / yr
1.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.84%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
45,831People within 30 min
1,312,495People within 2 hr
92,392Radius comparison (15 mi)
243People / sq mi
23.7%Federal land
81.3%Land at 15% slope or less
2.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
9,342 acWorkable land screen
59.5%Wooded land
36.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
61.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Sebastian 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: Barling · Bonanza · Town of Central City · Greenwood · Hackett · Hartford · Huntington · Lavaca · Mansfield · Town of Midland

Answers from the rulebook for Sebastian County

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

Sebastian County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Development, including construction or placement of structures, in an area designated as a special flood hazard area on Sebastian County's FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map.

    • A floodplain development permit is required before beginning any development in a special flood hazard area.
    • The application is presented to the Floodplain Administrator on county-furnished forms.
    • The application may require plans in duplicate, drawn to scale, showing location, dimensions, and elevation of proposed landscape alterations and existing and proposed structures, including manufactured homes.
    • Required documentation and applicable code provisions depend on the type of development and the risk zone.
    • The Floodplain Administrator's approval or denial is appealable to the designated Appeal Board, consisting of the County Judge, County Assessor, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Western River Valley Board of Realtors.
    “FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT PERMIT. A permit issued by the local Floodplain Administrator and is required before beginning any development in an area designated as a special flood hazard area on the community's FIRM.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Structural development and other listed development in a special flood hazard area in Sebastian County, including unincorporated areas where the county floodplain ordinance applies.
      “A floodplain development permit is required for all structural development, placement of manufactured structures, clearing, grading, mining, drilling, dredging, placement of fill, excavating, watercourse alteration, drainage improvements, roadway or bridge construction, individual water or sewer installations or any other development in a special flood hazard area to ensure conformance with the provisions of this code.”
  • Permit processPartial

    County Road Department utility permits and road bore permits in Sebastian County.

    • Permits can be completed ahead of time.
    • The applicant must contact the County Road Department to finalize the related work involving the permit.
    • The page directs applicants with service requests to call or visit the office during office hours.
    • The source does not establish a general building-permit process.
    “If you have a service request for the County Road Department, please call us or come by our office during office hours to discuss.  Most requests can be handled with just a phone call. Permits: The following permits can be completed ahead of time but please be sure you contact us to finalize the related work involving the permit. Utility Permit Road Bore Permit”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county planning or zoning department is listed; land use in unincorporated Sebastian County is not subject to county zoning controls.

    Sebastian County Government (official county site) ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Residential contractor licensing requirements for an owner building or improving the owner's residence or property in Arkansas, including Sebastian County

    • The exemption is from the residential contractor licensing requirements, not an explicit exemption from any building permit, inspection, zoning, utility, or other local requirement.
    • A person acting as a residential building contractor in construction of the person's residence is exempt unless the person builds more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • The owner of a single-family residence acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's own property is exempt.
    • Projects costing $2,000 or less are exempt, but the exemption does not apply when work necessary to complete the project is divided into separate contracts of less than $2,000.
    • Subcontractors of a contractor licensed by the Residential Contractors Committee are exempt.
    • A person or entity licensed by another Arkansas licensing agency, board, or commission is exempt when performing work within that license's scope.

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

    “(2) The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property;”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-builders acting as residential building contractors or home-improvement contractors in Arkansas, including Sebastian County.
      “The following shall be exempted from the licensing requirements of this subchapter: (1) A person who acts as a residential building contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year; (2) The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property;”
    • Conditional — Exemption from Arkansas residential contractor licensing requirements for an owner-builder; this does not itself exempt the owner from any building-permit, inspection, building-code, or local-government requirements.
      “The owner of a single family residence 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 adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including its International Building Code and International Residential Code components, applicable as the statewide code framework relevant to Sebastian County.

    • The rules state that the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code consists of the International Fire Code, International Building Code, and International Residential Code, as amended and adopted by the Arkansas State Fire Marshal.
    • The rules state an effective date of January 1, 2023.
    • Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision may adopt more stringent provisions, but may only adopt and enforce provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code 2021 Edition as the foundation document.
    • Appendices B, C, D, E, F, G, and K are adopted by the State of Arkansas; other appendices do not apply unless adopted by local ordinance.
    • The source encourages cities and counties to enforce the code by adopting it as a local ordinance; this claim therefore establishes the statewide code adoption framework and does not establish that Sebastian County enacted a separate local adopting ordinance.

    effective date: 2023-01-01 · code edition: 2021 edition

    “These rules shall be known as the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. [...] These Rules shall be effective January 1, 2023.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building-code minimums applicable in Sebastian County, including rural and unincorporated areas.
      “Arkansas Building Codes are mandatory statewide minimums. They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required. The Arkansas Building Code is adopted by the State Fire Marshal’s office. It is a part of the Fire Prevention Code. The Code applies Statewide, even in rural and unincorporated areas. Arkansas is currently under the 2012 Edition of the Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code as a statewide state code relevant to building and fire-code compliance, including within Sebastian County.
      “The Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board adopts the current edition of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code in its entirety, along with the reference standards noted in the reference section.”
    • 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.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Subdivision lots in Sebastian County and elsewhere in Arkansas using drip dispersal design to determine minimum lot size for onsite wastewater systems.

    • Drip dispersal design may be used only when the minimum depth to bedrock requirement in section 7.2.2 is met.
    • Primary and secondary absorption areas must be flagged on contour.
    • The legal description of the primary and secondary absorption areas must be included in the legal description of the lots.
    • The rule excerpted applies to determining minimum lot size for subdivisions using onsite wastewater systems; it is not a general county zoning minimum lot size.

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

    “5.5.4 Drip dispersal design may be used in determining minimum lot size for subdivisions when the following criteria are met: Minimum depth to bedrock in section 7.2.2, primary and secondary absorption areas are flagged on contour, legal description of primary and secondary absorption areas included in the legal description of those lots. Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be 0.5 acres or larger.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Onsite wastewater facilities serving property in Sebastian County and elsewhere in Arkansas.

    • The listed minimum horizontal distances apply where ideal conditions indicate them to be sufficient; greater distances are required where local conditions demand.
    • Waivers, except those involving public water supplies, must be submitted to and approved by the Department.
    • Waivers affecting public water supplies must be submitted to and approved by Engineering.
    • The rule requires consideration of local water-well depth, type of construction, vertical zone of influence, geological formations, and subsoil porosity.
    • Distances include 300 feet from a body of water when within one quarter mile of a public water-supply intake, 300 feet from a spring used as a public water supply, 100 feet from a domestic water supply, 100 feet from a stream or lake, 50 feet from a pond on the same property and 100 feet from a pond on adjacent property if in the pond watershed, never less than 50 feet from a pond, 10 feet from a dwelling or building, 10 feet from property lines, 10 feet from a water service line, and 100 feet from a sinkhole.

    distance from body of water near public water-supply intake: >= 300 feet (If within one quarter mile of a public water supply intake on that body of water.) · distance from spring used as public water supply: >= 300 feet · distance from domestic water supply: >= 100 feet · distance from stream or lake: >= 100 feet · distance from pond on same property: >= 50 feet · distance from pond on adjacent property: >= 100 feet (If in the pond watershed; in no case less than 50 feet.) · distance from dwelling or building: >= 10 feet · distance from property line: >= 10 feet · distance from water service line: >= 10 feet (See Arkansas Plumbing Code.) · distance from sinkhole: >= 100 feet

    “Minimum horizontal distances shall be used only where ideal conditions indicate them to be sufficient and greater distances shall be required where local conditions demand, as found in Section 6.2. [...] Facilities used for the collection, treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 10 feet from all property lines. [...] Facilities used for the collection, treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 100 feet from any sinkhole.”
  • 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 — Three or more recreational-vehicle spaces on a parcel where placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee, including such parks in Sebastian County.
      “(a) Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
  • 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 in fee-based parks with three or more spaces, including parks in Sebastian 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;”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    At least one accessory dwelling unit on a lot or parcel containing a single-family dwelling within incorporated municipalities in Sebastian County; Act 313 addresses municipalities, not countywide unincorporated land.

    • The accessory dwelling unit must be self-contained and independently accessed, with cooking, sleeping, and sanitation facilities.
    • The detached or attached accessory dwelling unit may not exceed 75% of the single-family dwelling's gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less.
    • Applicable regulatory requirements, including fire code, local ordinances, zoning conditions, design standards, and other state and local laws, still apply.
    • A municipality may charge an application-review fee up to $250, in addition to usual building fees.
    • A municipality may require municipal water and sewer will-serve letters, or Department of Health approval where municipal water or sewer is unavailable.
    • The law does not prohibit municipal regulation of short-term rentals.

    maximum detached or attached ADU size: 75% of primary dwelling gross floor area or 1,000 sq. ft., whichever is less (Internal ADUs are also authorized by the statute.) · ADU application-review fee: <= 250 USD (Usual building fees may be charged in addition.)

    “Except as provided in this section, a municipality shall not adopt a policy, regulation, or ordinance that restricts, prohibits, or otherwise regulates the use of at least one (1) accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel that contains a single-family dwelling.”
  • Who permits septicState

    Onsite wastewater systems in Sebastian County and elsewhere in Arkansas.

    • The Arkansas State Board of Health adopts and promulgates the rules.
    • The Arkansas Department of Health administers the rules; the Authorized Agent is the Environmental Health Specialist assigned to the county or business unit by the Department.
    • For cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent acts as the Department's Authorized Agent; otherwise applications are made to the Department.
    “The following RULES PERTAINING TO ONSITE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS are duly adopted and promulgated by the Arkansas State Board of Health”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of onsite wastewater systems in Sebastian County, including systems serving residences and other covered premises.

    • A completed permit application and detailed plans and specifications must be approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before construction of a building or residence.
    • Onsite wastewater systems must be connected to a sanitary sewer when the sewer is within 300 feet from the point where it exits a building and available without crossing another person's property; no onsite wastewater system may then be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.
    • Lots, tracts, or parcels must have suitable primary and secondary absorption areas sized according to natural soil data; subsurface renovation cannot be approved if soils are unsuitable.
    • For subdivisions or platted or unplatted lots or tracts governed by Act 402 of 1977, construction and operation permits must be obtained before construction, installation, or modification.
    • The installer must notify the Authorized Agent at least 24 hours before beginning work. Emergency repairs may begin without prior notification if a permit is obtained within ten working days.
    • For cities or counties without a designated Authorized Agent, applications are made to the Arkansas Department of Health.
    • A plan-review fee is required before issuance of Part 1; the fee is nonrefundable, and construction must begin within one year of issuance unless the permit is revalidated.
    • Existing installations and certain subdivisions or lots with prior approvals or permits are subject to the exceptions in Section 3.4.
    • Permits may be refused where public sewer is reasonably available or economically feasible, subject to the emergency-repair exception in Section 4.10.4.

    sanitary sewer distance: <= 300 feet (applies when sewer is available and connection can be made without crossing another person's property) · installer advance notice: >= 24 hours (emergency repairs may proceed without prior notice if a permit is obtained within ten working days) · construction commencement deadline: 1 year (permit must be revalidated by the original submitting Designated Representative or Department Authorized Agent) · individual permit review fee for structures 1,500 square feet or less: 30 USD · individual permit review fee for structures over 1,500 and up to 2,000 square feet: 45 USD · individual permit review fee for structures over 2,000 and up to 3,000 square feet: 90 USD · individual permit review fee for structures over 3,000 and up to 4,000 square feet: 120 USD · individual permit review fee for structures over 4,000 square feet: 150 USD · alteration, repair, or extension review fee: 30 USD

    “Permit requirement. It shall be unlawful [...] to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite wastewater system [...] until the owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas.
      “A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or residence. [...] 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.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Operation of onsite wastewater systems in Sebastian County, including systems installed, altered, repaired, or extended under the Arkansas onsite wastewater rules.

    • A system may not begin operation until it has been inspected and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent and the owner has obtained a Permit for Operation.
    • Part II is the installation inspection; an installation inspection may occur during construction and at any phase of installation.
    • The installer must notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative when the installation is ready for inspection, and the owner or occupant must provide reasonable access.
    • Within five days, the installer must submit required documentation to the local health unit showing installation under the approved permit.
    • The inspection may be performed by the Authorized Agent or, with the Authorized Agent's approval, by a Designated Representative.
    • After inspection approval, the Authorized Agent issues the Permit for Operation; the system may not be used until that permit is issued.
    • A permit may be refused where a public sewer is reasonably available or economically feasible, subject to the emergency-repair exception allowing subsequent permitting within ten working days.

    installer documentation submission deadline: 5 days · emergency repair subsequent permit deadline: 10 working days (applies when emergency repairs are undertaken without prior permit issuance)

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

    Use of composting or incinerating toilets as components of an Arkansas onsite wastewater system.

    • Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department may be used.
    • The devices must be evaluated by an ANSI-approved laboratory under NSF Standard 41.
    • Wastewater other than urine and feces must be renovated or disposed of under Sections 8 or 9 of the rule.
    • Stabilized compost must be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary landfill.
    • The system remains subject to applicable onsite wastewater permitting and approval requirements.
    “Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other sanitation receptacles on premises in Sebastian County where sanitary sewer is available within the stated 300-foot distance and connection can be made without crossing another person's property.
      “No privies, onsite wastewater systems, or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
  • Well permitLimited

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

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

    Premises in Sebastian County where a sanitary sewer is available and the premises is within 300 feet of the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property, provided connection does not require crossing another person's property.

    • When the stated distance, availability, and no-crossing conditions are met, connection is mandatory.
    • No privies, onsite wastewater systems, or other receptacles for human excreta may be constructed, maintained, or used on those premises.
    • Plumbing must comply with the Arkansas Plumbing Code.

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

    “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Sewer (with conditions) — Homes and premises where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits the building and available without crossing another person's property.
      “All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within three hundred feet (300’) from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    State and local sales-tax exemption for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment in Arkansas.

    • The utility must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose.
    • Multiple-use meters serving eligible and noneligible structures, facilities, or equipment do not qualify.
    • The farmer must obtain a certificate from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration before the exemption is allowed and provide it to the utility supplier.
    • Qualifying agricultural structures include commercial poultry or livestock facilities, cattle or dairy facilities, and greenhouses used for commercial production.
    • Qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment includes specified cooling, collection, irrigation, pond-pumping, pond-aeration, and holding or sorting-tank equipment used in commercial operations.

    exemption start date: 2014-01-01 · eligible utilities: electricity, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (Must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose) · DFA certificate: true (Required before the exemption is allowed) · water exemption for commercial poultry farming start date: 2021-10-01 (Water must be used exclusively for poultry farming and separately metered)

    “Act 1441 of 2013 provides an exemption from state and local sales taxes for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture and horticulture equipment beginning January 1, 2014. The eligible utility must be separately metered and used only for the purpose of the exemption.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Sebastian County.
      “(a) The licensing requirements of Arkansas Code § 17-28-101 et seq. shall not apply to the following: [...] (4) The construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
    • Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
      “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  • Subdividing landLimited

    Subdivision plans in Sebastian County that propose to use standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of the lots or tracts.

    • Plans must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall onsite-wastewater plan.
    • Unsuitable lots or parcels must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
    • Green or community-space areas must be clearly identified and are not assigned lot numbers or counted in subdivision approval.
    • Submission is made to the local health unit and must include soil-pit data, applicable percolation tests, test locations, topography, and other information required for review.
    • The plan-review fee is a minimum of $100 for one lot, $25 for each following lot, and a maximum of $1,500.
    • Individual-well subdivisions require wells at least 50 feet from lot lines and at least 100 feet from onsite wastewater systems on the same or adjacent lots; primary and secondary systems must meet Section 6.2 setbacks.
    • With public water and onsite wastewater, each lot must contain primary and secondary absorption areas meeting Section 6.2 setbacks.
    • New surface-discharging systems in subdivisions require compliance with Division of Environmental Quality and Department of Health requirements.
    • For lots under three acres, soil-depth thresholds apply: 13 inches to a brief seasonal water table, 18 inches to an adjusted moderate seasonal water table, or 24 inches to an adjusted long seasonal water table.
    • Lots using drip-dispersal design for minimum lot size must be at least 0.5 acres.

    plan review fee for one lot: >= 100 USD · plan review fee for each following lot: 25 USD · maximum plan review fee: <= 1500 USD · well setback from lot line: >= 50 feet · well setback from onsite wastewater system: >= 100 feet (same lot and adjacent lots) · minimum lot size for drip-dispersal design: >= 0.5 acres

    “5.1.1 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)

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

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

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

    “$50,001 to $75,000 | 9.25%”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Recreational-vehicle occupancy in Arkansas mobile home or recreational vehicle parks, including parks located in Sebastian County, when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy and placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee.

    • The parcel is treated as a mobile home or recreational vehicle park when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes.
    • Placement or maintenance services, or both, must be provided for a fee.
    • The park 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 Department of Health's discretion.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension requires prior Department of Health approval.

    minimum spaces: >= 3 spaces (Applies to spaces occupied or intended for occupancy.) · service condition: placement or maintenance services provided for a fee (Whether new or existing.)

    “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
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

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

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

Inside cities and towns in Sebastian County

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

  • Building permitRequired

    Listed construction and related work within the City of Greenwood, a municipality located in Sebastian County.

    • The source lists permit-required categories rather than every possible permit category.
    • The listed requirement applies within City of Greenwood; it does not establish a countywide rule for unincorporated Sebastian County or other municipalities.
    • The City states that all activity inside the FEMA special flood hazard area requires a permit.
    “Permits Required Construction of Residential, Commercial, & Industrial Structures”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction and listed construction-related work within the City of Greenwood, Sebastian County, Arkansas.
      “Permits Required Additions & remodeling of existing structures Commercial & Industrial Signs Construction of Residential, Commercial, & Industrial Structures Electrical, Plumbing, & Mechanical (HVAC) Installation & Replacement”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land and building use within the City of Greenwood, Sebastian County, Arkansas.

    • The City of Greenwood Planning and Community Development Department develops and maintains the city zoning ordinance.
    • The cited page does not state the ordinance's extraterritorial extent, effective date, dimensional standards, or parcel-specific zoning district.
    • Other municipalities and unincorporated areas require separate verification.
    “Develop and maintain the Zoning Ordinance”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land-use regulation within the City of Greenwood, a municipality in Sebastian County.
      “Develop and maintain the Zoning Ordinance”
    • Present — Land and building use within the City of Greenwood, Sebastian County, Arkansas.
      “The Department fulfills many roles within the City [...] Develop and maintain the Zoning Ordinance”

Still unanswered

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

  • Zoning districts — County zoning districts in Sebastian County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size for residential construction in Sebastian County.
  • Lot coverage — Maximum lot coverage applicable in unincorporated Sebastian County.
  • Building height — Building-height limits applicable in unincorporated Sebastian County.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in Sebastian County.
2 more unanswered
  • Manufactured homes
  • 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 Sebastian County, Arkansas

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

Sebastian County scores 70/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

Sebastian County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health - Onsite Wastewater Program (local Environmental Health Specialist). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

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

Land in Sebastian County runs about $4,298 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Sebastian County?

Sebastian County gets about 51.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 12.5% of years.

How remote is Sebastian County?

A representative private-land location has about 45,831 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,312,495 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 Sebastian compares in Arkansas

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