Bolthole Index

Washington County, Arkansas

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

59Index Score / 100
#72 of 75 in Arkansas

Unincorporated Washington County, Arkansas does not require a traditional building permit for a single-family home or personal accessory building, though Arkansas construction standards still apply1. County Planning handles zoning and floodplain permits on unincorporated land23. Septic permits come from the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, not from County Planning45.

At a glance

Building permit
No traditional permit for a single-family home or personal accessory building in unincorporated areas1
Zoning
Yes; an adopted zoning act and map cover unincorporated areas26
Septic permit
Required before construction, installation or modification5
Owner-builder
Available because no county building permit is required; state trade licensing may still apply7
Setbacks
25 ft front, 10 ft side, 20 ft rear on parcels under 20 acres8
Subdivision lot size
At least 1 acre, excluding access easements; site conditions may require more9
Floodplain
Floodplain permit required in a FEMA-identified flood hazard area3
RV living / tiny home
Private-land occupancy rule not confirmed; ask County Planning10

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Washington County Planning

Zoning, development applications, lot splits, floodplain permits, address applications and guidance for unincorporated Washington County

(479) 444-1724

planning@washingtoncountyar.gov

2615 S. Brink Drive, Fayetteville, AR 72701

Septic permits

Washington County Health Department

Local health-department contact for septic questions and Designated Representative referrals

479-521-8181 ext. 2115

Roads & driveways

Washington County Road Department

Culvert-permit information for driveway access

479-444-1610

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

Off-grid gear

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

Unincorporated Washington County does not require a traditional building permit for a single-family home or personal accessory building1. The county Planning page also says it does not require building inspections for agricultural buildings, single-family homes or residential accessory structures, and a certificate of occupancy is issued only when requested11.

That answer covers unincorporated land only. Inside Prairie Grove, Johnson and Greenland, the city issues its own building permits: Prairie Grove12, Johnson13 and Greenland14. We could not confirm who issues building permits in Fayetteville, Springdale or Farmington, so ask the city before you build there.

No traditional building permit does not mean no standards or approvals. Arkansas construction standards apply statewide even where no permit is required15. Zoning, subdivision, septic and access rules can independently require review before work begins216517, and building in a FEMA-identified flood hazard area needs a floodplain permit3.

Who issues zoning, septic and floodplain permits in Washington County?

Washington County Planning is the first stop for an unincorporated parcel: the office handles zoning and development applications, lot splits, floodplain permits and address applications11. The office is at 2615 S. Brink Drive, Fayetteville, AR 72701; call (479) 444-1724 or email planning@washingtoncountyar.gov11. Planning accepts project fees in person or by mail when an application is submitted11. The county identifies Planning as its floodplain administration office, with added permits and restrictions in Floodzone A or AE18.

For onsite wastewater questions, call the Washington County Health Department at 479-521-8181 ext. 2115; the county directs owners to local Designated Representatives for soil work and existing-system inspections19. The Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent approves onsite wastewater plans and permits, for every address in the county, city or not4. For a culvert serving a driveway, contact the Washington County Road Department at 479-444-161020.

Does Washington County, Arkansas have zoning?

Washington County has adopted a zoning act and zoning map for its unincorporated area26. Unlike the counties around it in Arkansas, Washington County has county zoning10. Inside the cities, Fayetteville21, Springdale22, Farmington23, Prairie Grove24 and Johnson25 each set their own zoning, so establish jurisdiction before relying on the county answer.

In unincorporated Washington County, residential subdivision lots must contain at least 1 acre excluding access easements, and septic or well suitability may require more9. Buildings on parcels smaller than 20 acres must stay 25 feet from a street right-of-way, 10 feet from side property lines and 20 feet from the rear line8. On a land-division survey, the 25-foot front setback must also be dedicated as a utility easement26. Plot distances from verified boundaries and the actual right-of-way, not the pavement edge.

Larger projects get more review. A parcel over 1 acre developed as a single improvement counts as a large-scale development, which is not defined to include a single-family residence or a farm or other agricultural facility27. County Planning checks the zoning first, and a Conditional Use Permit may be required28.

Who issues septic permits in Washington County?

An onsite wastewater (septic) permit must be obtained before a system is constructed, installed or modified in Washington County5. The Arkansas Department of Health governs the system, while delegated work may run through an Authorized Agent4. Call the Washington County Health Department at 479-521-8181 ext. 2115 for the local route and a Designated Representative19.

The system cannot begin operating until it has been inspected and approved and the owner has a Permit for Operation29. Only about 8.6% of Washington County soils avoid a USDA rating of “very limited” for a conventional septic drain field, so a site evaluation can materially change the usable house site and budget30. Septic rules do not move to the cities: the health unit in the county where the property sits handles onsite wastewater questions inside Fayetteville too31. A sanitary-sewer connection is required when sewer is within 300 feet of the building's sewer-exit point and can be reached without crossing another person's property32.

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

We could not confirm a complete Washington County rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV living, temporary camping or a single tiny home on private land. Because unincorporated parcels remain subject to zoning, residence-count and land-use restrictions, ask Washington County Planning about the exact parcel and intended occupancy before buying or moving a unit onsite3311.

Arkansas's health rules do answer a narrower question: a parcel with 3 or more paid spaces intended for recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes is treated as a regulated park when placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee34. Under those park rules, a tiny house on wheels is treated as a mobile home if plumbed and inspected under the Arkansas Plumbing Code, and as a recreational vehicle if it is not35. Those park provisions do not decide whether one RV or tiny home may be occupied on a private parcel36.

What are the steps to build a home in Washington County?

  1. Confirm that the parcel is outside city limits, then ask Washington County Planning to check the zoning map and proposed use6.
  2. Check the survey, setbacks and any proposed property split before fixing the house location816. A subdivision runs through pre-platting, preliminary review, technical review, Planning Board review, final review and final-plat filing37.
  3. For a development large enough to count as large-scale, budget for plat review fees of $100 for a concept plat, $500 for a preliminary or final plan, and $750 for a high-intensity plan38. Adjoining owners within 300 feet get a certified letter at least 14 days before the Planning Board meeting39.
  4. Check for a FEMA-identified Special Flood Hazard Area and obtain the required floodplain permit before development there3.
  5. Arrange the septic site work and obtain Arkansas Department of Health or Authorized Agent approval before onsite wastewater construction45.
  6. Confirm legal access and ask the Road Department whether the driveway needs a culvert permit1720.
  7. Build to applicable Arkansas standards even though the county does not require the traditional residential building permit115.
  8. Obtain septic inspection and the Permit for Operation before using the system29.

What should you check before buying land in Washington County?

Start with wastewater feasibility: only about 8.6% of Washington County soils avoid a “very limited” rating for conventional drain fields30. About 61.8% of the land has a slope of 15% or less, while about 56.8% is wooded, so the specific homesite and access route matter more than a parcel-wide average4041. Verify floodplain status with Planning because development in a FEMA-identified Special Flood Hazard Area requires a county floodplain permit3.

Confirm legal road access and ask the Road Department whether a culvert permit is required20. If a sanitary sewer is available within 300 feet under the state's access conditions, connection is required rather than a private onsite system32. For carrying costs, the effective property-tax rate is about 0.6%, the median annual property-tax bill is about $1,465, and the typical home value is about $356,013424344.

Watch-outs

  • No traditional county residential building permit does not waive zoning, septic, floodplain, subdivision or driveway requirements12531617.
  • We could not confirm a complete private-land rule for RV residence, temporary camping or a single tiny home; ask Washington County Planning before relying on one for housing1011.
  • A conventional septic layout may be difficult because only about 8.6% of county soils avoid a “very limited” USDA drain-field rating30.

Sources

  1. Building a residence in the county?, quoted and re-checked
  2. Washington County Planning and Zoning Ordinance No. 2025-044, quoted and re-checked
  3. Washington County Subdivision Information and Application Packet, quoted and re-checked
  4. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  5. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  6. Washington County Planning and Zoning Ordinance No. 2025-044, quoted and re-checked
  7. Arkansas law on county zoning and building authority
  8. Washington County Planning and Zoning Ordinance No. 2025-044, quoted and re-checked
  9. Washington County Planning and Zoning Ordinance No. 2025-044, quoted and re-checked
  10. Building a residence in the county? (2026 county census)
  11. Washington County Planning (washingtoncountyar.gov)
  12. Prairie Grove: official source (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  13. Johnson: City of Johnson Residential Building Permit Application (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  14. Greenland: Greenland Municipal Code § 11.04.01, Building—Permits required (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  15. Home Improvement Contractor License Application (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Washington County Subdivision Information and Application Packet, quoted and re-checked
  17. Washington County Subdivision Information and Application Packet, quoted and re-checked
  18. Building a residence in the county?, quoted and re-checked
  19. Washington County Health Department (washingtoncountyar.gov)
  20. Washington County Road Department (washingtoncountyar.gov)
  21. Fayetteville: Planning (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Springdale: Code of Ordinances, Chapter 130, Article 4, Section 2—Residential districts (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  23. Farmington: Zoning | City of Farmington, AR (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  24. Prairie Grove: official source (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Johnson: Johnson Zoning Code § 14.04.05 District regulations (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  26. Exemption Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  27. Large Scale Development Submittal Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  28. Large Scale Development Information, quoted and re-checked
  29. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024), quoted and re-checked
  30. 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
  31. Fayetteville: Onsite Wastewater (Washington County), quoted and re-checked
  32. healthy.arkansas.gov, quoted and re-checked
  33. Building a residence in the county?, quoted and re-checked
  34. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  35. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  36. 20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance (Arkansas statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  37. Washington County Subdivision Information and Application Packet, quoted and re-checked
  38. Large Scale Development Submittal Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  39. Large Scale Development Submittal Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  40. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  44. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data

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, Washington County has countywide zoning.

RuleWashington CountyBenton CountyMadison CountyCrawford CountyFranklin CountyCarroll CountyJohnson County
Building permitNot requiredRequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningYesNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Washington County in Arkansas

59
County map
Washington County highlighted among the Arkansas counties · colored by Index score

How Washington County scores

Seclusion33100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency67100% ev.
Admin Boringness61100% ev.
Durability53100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost68100% 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 →

$356kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$7,460Land / acre
49.2"Annual rain
9.5% of yrsSevere drought
11.6 / yr (+9.7)Mid-century 100°F days
17.7 daysMid-century dry spell
2.42" (+4.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.55×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,855Home insurance / yr
1.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.69%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
221,863People within 30 min
2,096,079People within 2 hr
121,193Radius comparison (15 mi)
277.8People / sq mi
4.3%Federal land
61.8%Land at 15% slope or less
8.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
51,448 acWorkable land screen
56.8%Wooded land
45.6 tonsBiomass / forest ac
57.9°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Washington 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: Elkins · Elm Springs · Town of Goshen · Lincoln · Tontitown · West Fork · Winslow

Answers from the rulebook for Washington County

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

Washington County rules

  • Building permitNot required (with conditions)

    Traditional building permits for single-family homes and personal accessory buildings in unincorporated Washington County.

    • Municipal permitting may apply inside city limits.
    • The county guidance states that Arkansas State Code must be met.
    • Zoning, floodplain, subdivision, utility, driveway, and septic requirements may still apply.
    “Please note that while traditional building permits for single-family homes or personal accessory buildings are not required in Washington County Arkansas State Code must be met.”
  • Owner-builder exemption · follows from the permit answerNot needed

    Unincorporated Washington County: no county building permit is required, so there is no permit to be exempt from and you may build your own home. State licensing for electrical, plumbing and HVAC work may still apply.

    • Municipal permitting may apply inside city limits.
    • The county guidance states that Arkansas State Code must be met.
    “Please note that while traditional building permits for single-family homes or personal accessory buildings are not required in Washington County Arkansas State Code must be met.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning restrictions applicable to unincorporated Washington County.

    • The official county guidance states that zoning restrictions apply, including minimum lot size, residence count, and use restrictions.
    • Municipal rules may apply inside city limits.
    “Washington County has zoning restrictions regarding minimum lot size. Planning staff will assist you to determine if your proposed residence meets zoning code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County zoning under Ordinance No. 2025-044 in the unincorporated area.
      “ARTICLE 1. The Quorum Court hereby adopts The Freedom and Property Preservation Zoning Act of Washington County, attached hereto and incorporated herein as if set forth word for word.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Large-scale developments and related land-use review in unincorporated Washington County.

    • The county has jurisdiction over large-scale developments in unincorporated areas, except as otherwise provided by law.
    • County Planning Staff must check the property's zoning; a Conditional Use Permit may be required.
    • The source states that the applicable design standards and required improvements are outlined in Washington County Planning and Zoning Ordinance No. 2025-044.
    “The County has jurisdiction over large scale developments in the unincorporated areas of Washington County, except as otherwise provided by law. Review and Approval Process. • Have County Planning Staff check the zoning of your property. A Conditional Use Permit may be required.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Unincorporated Washington County parcels subject to county zoning and conditional-use review.
      “ARTICLE 2. The Washington County Zoning Map is hereby adopted by reference and shall be on file in the office of the County Clerk. Furthermore, the map, as amended from time to time by the Quorum Court, shall be available at the Washington County Planning Department office.”
    • Present (with conditions) — County-administered zoning review in unincorporated Washington County.
      “The County has jurisdiction over large scale developments in the unincorporated areas of Washington County, except as otherwise provided by law. [...] Have County Planning Staff check the zoning of your property. A Conditional Use Permit may be required.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Residential lots in unincorporated Washington County subdivisions.

    • The standard applies to residential subdivision lots; septic and well suitability requirements may require larger lots.

    minimum subdivision lot area: 1 acre (excluding access easements)

    “Minimum Subdivision Lot Standards. (A)Area (square feet), excluding access easements ........................ 1 acre”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Residential development in unincorporated Washington County.
      “How large is the property? Washington County has zoning restrictions regarding minimum lot size. Planning staff will assist you to determine if your proposed residence meets zoning code.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Residential subdivision lots and parcels smaller than twenty acres in unincorporated Washington County.

    • The ordinance states that the building setbacks apply to all parcels smaller than twenty acres; residential subdivision standards also specify frontage and street setbacks.

    side setback: 10 feet · rear setback: 20 feet · front building setback from street right-of-way: 25 feet · corner lot building setback from street right-of-way: 25 feet (applicable to any side of lot adjacent to right-of-way)

    “Building setbacks as set out below shall be required for all parcels smaller than twenty (20) acres and they shall be depicted on the survey as lines as well as text: (A)Side setback from property line (feet)............................................ 10’ (B)Rear setback from property line (feet)........................................... 20’ (C)Front building setback from street ROW (feet)............................. 25’”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Washington County exemption land-division surveys.
      “Building setbacks-please depict these as lines on the survey- as well as text: 20’ from the rear property line, 10’ from the side property line(s), and 25’ from the front of the property and from any road right-of-way (ROW)-this 25’ front/ ROW setback must also be dedicated as a Utility Easement (UE).”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural facilities under the county's large-scale-development definition.

    • The exclusion is from the large-scale-development definition; other county, state, environmental, floodplain, health, or utility requirements may still apply.
    “but in no event shall include a farm or other agricultural facility, nor shall it include a single family residence.”
  • Subdividing landLimited

    Large-scale development and related land-development review in unincorporated Washington County.

    • The opened checklist states county jurisdiction over large-scale developments and describes preliminary, final, Planning Board, utility, health, and filing steps.
    • Agricultural facilities and single-family residences are excluded from the large-scale-development definition stated in the checklist.

    large-scale development threshold: > 1 acre (The checklist states that a farm or other agricultural facility and a single-family residence are not included in the definition.)

    “The development of a lot or parcel larger than one (1) acre developed as a single improvement. The term “development” shall include but will not be limited to [...] a parceling which results in the need for access and utilities; [...] but in no event shall include a farm or other agricultural facility, nor shall it include a single family residence.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Structures and driveways in unincorporated Washington County land developments.

    • No structure or driveway may be arranged so that a vehicle must back out onto a county or public road; the rule does not apply to interior roads in a land development.
    “No structure or driveway, regardless as to whether it is part of a land development, shall be built, installed or erected in such a manner that it will be necessary for any vehicle to back out onto any County or public road. (4) This section shall not be applicable to interior roads in a land development.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Residential construction and development in Floodzone A or AE in unincorporated Washington County.

    • Certain permits and restrictions apply in Floodzone A or AE.
    • The county guidance identifies the Washington County Planning office as the floodplain administration office.
    “The Washington County Planning office serves as the Floodplain Administration office for the county. Certain permits and restrictions apply if you plan to build within Floodzone A or AE.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — All development in designated floodplains in Washington County.
      “If the property is in a FEMA identified Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), a floodplain permit is required. Please contact the planning staff for details.”
    • Required — Development in a FEMA-identified Special Flood Hazard Area in unincorporated Washington County.
      “If the property is in a FEMA identified Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), a floodplain permit is required. Please contact the planning staff for details.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published Washington County planning review fees for land-development applications.

    • The opened checklist lists these fees for large-scale-development review; fees may differ for other application types.
    • The checklist is located in a 2026-updated packet, but no separate effective date for each fee was established in the opened excerpt.

    concept plat fee: 100 USD · preliminary LSD plan fee: 500 USD · final LSD plan fee: 500 USD · preliminary high-intensity LSD plan fee: 750 USD · final high-intensity LSD plan fee: 750 USD

    “2. Pay plat review fee: Fee $100.00 $500.00 $500.00 $750.00 Type Concept Plat Preliminary LSD Plan Final LSD Plan Preliminary High-Intensity LSD Plan Final High-Intensity LSD Plan $750.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Large-scale-development review in unincorporated Washington County.

    • Applications must be complete and submitted by the applicable submittal date; incomplete applications are not placed on the agenda.
    • The process includes county and utility review, neighbor notification, technical corrections, Planning Board/Zoning Board review, construction-plan review where applicable, final review, signing, and Circuit Clerk filing.

    neighbor notification period: >= 14 days (Certified-letter notification for applicable developments.)

    “The developer/applicant requesting LSD review shall send a certified letter to all adjoining property owners within the Notification Area of three hundred (300) feet of the exterior boundary of the property at least fourteen (14) days prior to the scheduled meeting of the Planning Board. [...] Submit a completed preliminary large scale development application submission to the County Planning Office by the submittal date for review.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Subdivision and land-development applications in unincorporated Washington County.
      “The review and approval process for developing a subdivision involves the following steps: • Check for the current zoning of the property. Contact the Planning Office for this information. • Pre-platting meeting”

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Any Arkansas city or county that issues building permits for new building construction.

    • The jurisdiction must issue building permits for new building construction.
    • The Arkansas Energy Code must be adopted as amended.
    • The source states that applicable cities or counties were required to adopt it before December 31, 2012.
    • Upon adoption, the jurisdiction must submit a copy of the adoption ordinance to the Arkansas Energy Office.

    adoption deadline: 2012-12-31

    “Arkansas Code § 15-10-205(b)(3)(B) requires that any city or county in Arkansas which issues building permits for new building construction (referred to herein as “applicable cities or counties”) shall adopt the Arkansas Energy Code as amended.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • 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.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.

    • The rule applies when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing.
    • The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR Part 138.
    • The owner or operator is responsible for compliance.
    • Waivers or exceptions are considered case by case and approval is at the Department of Health's discretion.
    • Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of a mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park requires prior submission and department approval.
    • Detailed plans must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features.

    minimum spaces triggering park regulation: >= 3 spaces (Placement or maintenance services, or both, must be provided for a fee.)

    “Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

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

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

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

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

    Onsite wastewater systems serving development in Washington County.

    • The county checklist states that ADH approval is required for subsurface domestic wastewater serving fewer than 20 persons per day and that ADH approval plus a DEQ permit is required at 20 or more persons per day.

    daily persons threshold: >= 20 persons/day (At fewer than 20 persons/day, ADH approval is required and the checklist states no DEQ permit is required.)

    “The No-Discharge Permits Section, in cooperation with the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), issues permits to facilities that utilize subsurface wastewater dispersal (i.e. septic tank system and drip irrigation system). Regulatory jurisdiction of subsurface wastewater dispersal system depends on the type of volume of waste.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems serving Washington County properties.
      “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.”
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems serving Washington County, administered by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent.
      “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.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, installation, modification, and operation of onsite wastewater systems serving Washington County properties.
      “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained in accordance with the RULES PERTAINING TO ONSITE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS prior to the construction, installation or modification of the Onsite Wastewater System.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

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

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

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

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

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

    • Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department may be used.
    • The devices must be evaluated by an ANSI-approved laboratory under NSF Standard 41.
    • Wastewater other than urine and feces must be renovated or disposed of under Sections 8 or 9 of the rule.
    • Stabilized compost must be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary landfill.
    • The system remains subject to applicable onsite wastewater permitting and approval requirements.
    “Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department”
  • 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)

    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.

    • When the stated distance and availability conditions are met, connection to the sanitary sewer is required.
    • Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises under that condition.

    sewer distance from building sewer-exit point: <= 300 feet (sewer must be 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Premises with a sanitary sewer available within the stated distance.
      “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.”
  • 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.

  • Zoning districts — Published zoning districts in unincorporated Washington County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Washington County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in unincorporated Washington County.
  • Building height — General building height in unincorporated Washington County.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in unincorporated Washington County.
3 more unanswered
  • Manufactured homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

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

Living off-grid in Washington County, Arkansas

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

Washington County scores 59/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 49.2″/yr rainfall plus 56.8% wooded land. Watch-outs: about 221,863 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Washington County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health. 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 Washington County?

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

Land in Washington County runs about $7,460 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Washington County?

Washington County gets about 49.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 9.5% of years.

How remote is Washington County?

A representative private-land location has about 221,863 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,096,079 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 Washington compares in Arkansas

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