Madison County, AR: No Building Permit, No Zoning

Unincorporated Madison County, Arkansas appears not to require a county building permit, but we could not confirm that answer in an express county rule; ask the County Clerk before starting work^1,2. The 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code covers fire, building and residential construction statewide, while property inside Huntsville is also subject to city zoning^3,4. Onsite wastewater approval comes from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent⁵.

At a glance

Building permit: Appears not required outside cities; confirm with the County Clerk¹
Zoning: Countywide status unconfirmed; Huntsville regulates land by zoning district^1,4
Wastewater: Connect to nearby public sewer when required; otherwise obtain state construction and operation permits^5,6
Owner-builder: Exempt from residential-builder licensing on your own home, capped at 1 residence per calendar year⁷
Statewide building code: Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (2021 ed.) applies as a minimum even with no local permit³
State highway driveway: Access onto a state highway needs an ARDOT driveway permit⁸

Who to call

Also useful

Madison County Clerk

General county records at the courthouse; the main point of contact since Madison County has no separate building or zoning department

(479) 738-2747

201 West Main Street, PO Box 37, Huntsville, AR 72740

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health, Environmental Health (Onsite Wastewater)

Reviews and issues onsite wastewater (septic) construction and operation permits for Madison County through its local environmental specialist

501-661-2171

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

Online permits →

2 more officesRoads & driveways · Floodplain permits

Roads & driveways

Madison County Road and Bridge Department

County-road and driveway-access questions in Madison County

Floodplain permits

Emergency 911 Addressing Office & Flood Plain Office

Addressing and floodplain determinations for Madison County

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 5, 2026.

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

Unincorporated Madison County appears not to require a county building permit for a home.

Unincorporated Madison County appears not to require a county building permit for a home¹. Because we could not confirm that answer in an express county ordinance or permit statement, ask the Madison County Clerk whether a county approval applies to your parcel before work begins². The current state list identifies the 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including fire, building and residential codes, for construction in Arkansas³. Property inside Huntsville is different: city land and structures must follow the applicable zoning district, and the city requires a Certificate of Zoning Compliance before issuing a building permit⁴.

Who do you call with building or zoning questions in Madison County?

Madison County's department listing does not identify a dedicated building, planning or zoning office, which is why the county building-permit answer remains worth confirming.

Madison County's department listing does not identify a dedicated building, planning or zoning office, which is why the county building-permit answer remains worth confirming¹. Start with the Madison County Clerk at the courthouse in Huntsville for county-government questions that have no published administering department². Madison County also lists a Road and Bridge Department for county-road matters and a combined addressing and floodplain office for addressing and floodplain questions². For land inside Huntsville, use the city's zoning process because zoning compliance must be reviewed before a city building permit is issued⁴.

Does Madison County have zoning?

Madison County appears not to administer countywide zoning in unincorporated areas, but we could not confirm the absence of zoning in an express county ordinance or statement.

Madison County appears not to administer countywide zoning in unincorporated areas, but we could not confirm the absence of zoning in an express county ordinance or statement¹. The City of Huntsville does have zoning: city property is divided into districts, permitted and conditional uses depend on the district, and the official zoning map determines a property's current zoning⁴. Huntsville also requires a Certificate of Zoning Compliance before a building permit is issued⁴. We could not confirm a minimum home size, general building setback, lot-coverage limit or building-height limit for unincorporated land; ask the County Clerk before fixing a site plan².

How do septic permits work in Madison County?

First determine whether public sewer is available: Arkansas requires a home or business to connect when the building's sewer exit is within 300 feet of public-sewer access on the owner's property or an adjacent street or alley⁶. Otherwise, the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent approves the onsite-wastewater application⁵. The system must be inspected and approved, and the owner must obtain a Permit for Operation before use⁵. Application-review fees run from $30 for a structure up to 1,500 square feet to $150 for one over 4,000 square feet; alteration, repair or extension review costs $30, and garages, carports and porches do not count toward residential square footage⁹. Only about 8.1% of county soils lack severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so arrange the site and soil evaluation before choosing the house location¹⁰.

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

We could not confirm a rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV or tiny-home occupancy on a private parcel in unincorporated Madison County.

We could not confirm a rule allowing or prohibiting long-term RV or tiny-home occupancy on a private parcel in unincorporated Madison County. Confirm the parcel's status and current practice with the Madison County Clerk before moving in or relying on an RV during construction². A parcel with 3 or more RV, tiny-house-on-wheels or mobile-home spaces is regulated as a park when placement or maintenance services are provided for a fee¹¹. In such a park, a tiny house on wheels is treated as a mobile home when plumbed and inspected under the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code, and as an RV otherwise¹¹. Those park rules do not settle occupancy of one RV or tiny home on private land.

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

Confirm whether the parcel is inside Huntsville; city land follows the official zoning map and needs zoning-compliance review before a building permit.

Confirm whether the parcel is inside Huntsville; city land follows the official zoning map and needs zoning-compliance review before a building permit⁴.
For unincorporated land, ask the County Clerk whether any county approval applies, because we could not confirm the permit process^1,2.
Design to the 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including its building and residential codes³.
Determine whether the public-sewer connection rule applies; otherwise seek onsite-wastewater approval from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent^5,6,12.
Pay the application-review fee before Part 1 of the permit application is issued, then begin construction within 1 year or have the permit revalidated⁹.
Have the septic system inspected and obtain its Permit for Operation before use⁵.
For access, ask the Road and Bridge Department about a county road; a state-highway driveway needs ARDOT approval^2,8.

What to check before you buy land in Madison County

Soils: only 8.1% of Madison County's land lacks severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, while 56.3% of the county sits at 15% slope or less, so a flat-looking lot can still need an engineered septic system.

Soils: only 8.1% of Madison County's land lacks severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field¹⁰, while 56.3% of the county sits at 15% slope or less¹⁰, so a flat-looking lot can still need an engineered septic system. Water: the state onsite-wastewater rule requires at least 100 feet between a septic system and a domestic water well⁶; private domestic wells are not shown to need a Department of Health construction permit the way public and semi-public wells do¹³. Flood: Madison County's addressing and floodplain office handles floodplain questions for the county². Access: a driveway onto a state highway needs its own Arkansas Department of Transportation permit, separate from anything the county requires⁸. Taxes: Madison County's effective property tax rate runs about 0.4%, with a median annual property tax bill near $702¹⁰.

Watch-outs

Madison County has no official statement on minimum dwelling size, setbacks, lot coverage or building height for unincorporated land; treat these as unconfirmed and check with the County Clerk's office, not as unregulated².
Long-term RV and tiny-home living on a private unincorporated parcel remains unconfirmed; Arkansas regulates qualifying RV and tiny-house-on-wheels parks, but that does not answer single-parcel occupancy¹¹.

Sources

13 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 5, 2026

Written October 5, 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.

Off-grid gear

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

Rule	Madison County	Carroll County	Newton County	Washington County	Benton County	Johnson County	Franklin County
Building permit	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required	Required	Not required	Not required
County zoning	No	No	Not published	Yes	No	No	No
Septic permits	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health

Answers from the rulebook for Madison County

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

Madison County rules

Building permitLimited
Development, including proposed building sites and placement of manufactured homes, in areas of special flood hazard within Madison County, Arkansas.
- The flood-damage-prevention ordinance applies to all areas of special flood hazard within Madison County.
- A development permit is required to ensure conformance with the ordinance.
- The Floodplain Administrator reviews permit applications, including proposed building sites and placement of manufactured homes, and approves or denies applications required by the ordinance.
- This claim does not establish a countywide general residential building-permit requirement outside areas of special flood hazard.
“c) Establishment of Development Permit. A Development Permit shall be required to ensure conformance with the provisions of this Ordinance.”
Madison County Code of Ordinances, Chapter 2 - Administration ↗Re-checked Nov 13, 2026
County-wide zoningAbsent
The county does not enforce county-wide zoning; no planning/zoning department or ordinance is present. Zoning exists only within incorporated cities such as Huntsville.
Madison County, Arkansas - Official Website (offices/departments) ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Arkansas rules that apply here

Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)
Residential-builder and home-improvement contractor licensing for owner-builders in Madison County and elsewhere in Arkansas; this claim does not establish exemption from any building, trade, health, or septic permit.
- An owner acting as the contractor in construction of his or her residence is exempt from residential-builder licensing unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year.
- An owner acting as his or her own home-improvement contractor on his or her own property is exempt from the residential builder and home improvement licensing requirements.
- The source also lists exemptions for subcontractors working for properly licensed contractors and contractors licensed by other licensing agencies or boards when performing work within the scope of that license.
- Arkansas Building Codes remain mandatory statewide minimums even where no permit or inspections are required.
maximum residences built by owner as contractor per calendar year: <= 1 residence (The source states the owner is not exempt if he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year.)
“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”
State of Arkansas Home Improvement New Application ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Available (with conditions) — Owner-builders acting as the contractor in construction of their own residence, and owners acting as their own home-improvement contractor on their own property; this is a statewide contractor-licensing exemption, not an express county building-permit waiver.
  “The following are exemptions to the residential builder and home improvement licensing requirements: (1) owners are exempt from licensure when acting as the contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year (2) owners acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property”
  Home Improvement New Application and Test Information ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
- 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;”
  Arkansas Residential Contractors Committee Rules and Statutes ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
Arkansas cities and counties that issue building permits for new building construction, including new construction, additions, and renovation of existing structures as described in the code.
- The adoption requirement applies to a city or county that issues building permits for new building construction.
- Applicable cities or counties were required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code prior to 12/31/2014.
- The source states that a copy of the adoption ordinance must be submitted to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission Energy Office.
- The stated effective date of the code is 1/1/2015.
adoption deadline: 12/31/2014 · effective date: 1/1/2015
“any city or county in Arkansas which issues building permits for new building construction [...] shall adopt the Arkansas Energy Code as amended.”
2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Adopted (with conditions) — Building, fire, and residential construction in Arkansas, including Madison County.
  “Current Applicable State Codes in Arkansas [...] Fire and Building Current Code 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (Includes: Fire Code, Building Code, Residential Code) (Based on IBC 2021 w\Arkansas Amendments)”
  Current Applicable State Codes in Arkansas ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- 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.”
  2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- 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.”
  22 CAR § 111-407. Building codes adopted ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
- 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.”
  22 CAR § 111-407. Building codes adopted ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
InspectionsLimited
Inspection of construction or work subject to the Arkansas Energy Code, including in counties or municipalities that have adopted the code.
- Construction or work that must comply with the Arkansas Energy Code is subject to inspection by the Arkansas Energy Office, its agent, or the code official.
- Final inspection and approval is performed by county or municipal code officials that have adopted the code and conduct final inspections as part of normal operations.
- The official Arkansas building-code guidance states that building codes apply statewide even in areas where no permit or inspections are required.
- This statewide rule does not establish that Madison County operates a local inspection program.
“Construction or work that must comply with this Code shall be subject to inspection by the Arkansas Energy Office or its agent, or by the code official. Code officials within a county or municipality who have adopted this Code and conduct final inspections as a part of their normal operations shall perform a final inspection and approval for buildings when completed and ready for occupancy.”
Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Construction subject to Arkansas Building Code compliance and any applicable inspection regime.
  “areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- Required — Construction or work that must comply with the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.
  “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.”
  2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
6 CAR § 31-425. Charter school facilities ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
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.”
  DBA Project Closeout Guide ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- 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.”
  2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Subdivision lots in Madison County proposed to use Arkansas-regulated onsite wastewater systems.
- This is an onsite-wastewater lot-size standard, not a general county zoning minimum.
- For individual wells, the lot must allow the well to be at least 50 feet from every lot line and at least 100 feet from onsite wastewater systems on the same and adjacent lots.
- With public water and onsite wastewater, the lot must contain primary and secondary absorption areas meeting Section 6.2 setbacks.
- Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size must be 0.5 acres or larger.
- Surface-discharging systems require a lot of at least 3 acres.
- The rules are effective September 5, 2024.
minimum lot size for drip dispersal design: >= 0.5 acres (Only when the Section 5.5.4 criteria are met.) · minimum lot size for surface-discharging system: >= 3 acres · well separation from lot line: >= 50 feet (For subdivisions with an individual water well and onsite wastewater system.) · well separation from onsite wastewater system: >= 100 feet (For the same lot and adjacent lots.)
“The lot size for a surface discharging system shall be 3 acres or greater.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
SetbacksSpecified
Minimum horizontal setbacks for onsite wastewater facilities in Madison County.
- These are onsite-wastewater facility setbacks, not general building setbacks.
- Greater distances are required where local conditions demand.
- Waivers require Department approval, except that waivers involving public water supplies require Engineering approval.
- The rules are effective September 5, 2024.
distance from domestic water supply: >= 100 feet · distance from stream or lake high-water mark: >= 100 feet · distance from dwelling or building: >= 10 feet · distance from property lines: >= 10 feet · distance from water service line: >= 10 feet · distance from sinkhole: >= 100 feet
“at least 10 feet from all property lines.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)
State delegation to county planning boards for zoning ordinances covering all or part of a county's unincorporated area; this is not a statewide lot-coverage percentage.
- A county planning board may prepare a zoning ordinance only for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county.
- The ordinance must include both a map and a text.
- Lot coverage is a subject the zoning ordinance may regulate; the enactment does not require a county to adopt such a rule.
- The ordinance must designate districts or zones, and regulations within each district or zone must be uniform throughout that district or zone.
“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. [...] The zoning ordinance may regulate: [...] (C) lot Lot coverage;”
arkleg.state.ar.us ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
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.”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
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”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Allowed (with conditions) — Tiny houses on wheels placed in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks, including parks located in Madison County.
  “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.”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- 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;”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Who permits septicState (with conditions)
Individual sewage disposal (septic) systems and alternate/experimental systems in Arkansas, administered by the Arkansas Department of Health (Division of Environmental Health Protection) and its authorized agents (the environmental health specialist assigned to each county)
- The chapter (and so the Department's permit requirement) does not apply to an individual or alternate/experimental system on a tract of ten (10) acres or larger whose field line or sewage disposal line is no closer than 200 feet to the property line (§ 14-236-104(c)).
- Systems in existence on July 1, 1977, and certain systems installed after that date in subdivisions platted before July 1, 1977, are not required to meet more stringent specifications than the standards then applicable (§ 14-236-104(a)).
- Permit requirement (§ 14-236-112) covers systems installed after July 1, 1977; emergency repairs may proceed if a permit is obtained within ten working days.
- A municipality's law or regulation setting standards that give greater protection to public health or safety prevails within that municipality (§ 14-236-105).
- Surface-discharging systems may also need ADEQ authorization; not verified from an official page in this job.
- The statute text is from the Department of Health's 2014 compilation of the Act; check the current Arkansas Code for later amendments.
acreage exemption threshold: >= 10 acres (field line or sewage disposal line no closer than 200 feet to the property line) · minimum field line distance to property line for exemption: >= 200 feet
“the division of environmental health protection of the department of health or its authorized agents shall have general supervision and authority over the location, design, construction, installation, and operation of individual sewage disposal systems”
Arkansas Sewage Disposal Systems Act, A.C.A. § 14-236-101 et seq. (Arkansas Department of Health compilation, 2014 language update) ↗Re-checked Nov 6, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- State — Onsite wastewater systems in Madison County, Arkansas, under Arkansas statewide rules.
  “Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Onsite wastewater systems in Madison County and elsewhere in Arkansas.
  “Permits for construction and operation of onsite wastewater systems shall be obtained”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
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.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Operation of onsite wastewater systems in Madison County.
  “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Alternative or off-grid sanitation in Madison County, including septic systems and other sewage-treatment or disposal devices.
- Sewage must be deposited in sanitary sewers, sewage-treatment facilities, septic-tank systems, or other systems or devices adequate for the people served.
- Individual sewage systems require plans submitted to and approved by the Department of Health or its Authorized Agent.
- Discharges are prohibited unless specifically permitted by the Department or Division of Environmental Quality.
- Off-property discharges require disinfection, current discharge standards, and an NPDES permit.
- When public sewer is available within 300 feet under the stated access conditions, privies and onsite wastewater systems may not be constructed, maintained, or used.
minimum separation from domestic water well: >= 100 feet (Greater distances may be required where local conditions demand.) · minimum separation from water-supply lake or intake: >= 300 feet (The stated distances apply only where ideal conditions are present; greater distances may be required.)
“All sewage must be deposited in sanitary sewers, sewage treatment facilities, septic tank systems”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Allowed (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”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Well permitLimited
Public water wells, including community and noncommunity public water wells, in Madison County.
- The proposed well location must be approved in writing by the Department before construction.
- Public water wells must be constructed according to the latest AWWA Standard A100 and approved by the Department.
- A copy of the well construction log must be filed with the Department.
- The cited rule does not establish a permit requirement for every private domestic well.
“All public water wells, whether community or noncommunity, shall be constructed [...] and approved by the department.”
20 CAR § 140-107. Ground water supplies ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Wells serving public and semi-public water systems in Arkansas.
  “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.”
  17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)
Homes and businesses in Madison County where public sewer access is within the stated distance.
- Connection is required when the sewer exits the building within 300 feet of access to public sewer on the owner's property or an adjacent street or alley.
- The rule concerns public sewer access; it does not establish a countywide requirement where public sewer is unavailable.
distance from building sewer exit to public sewer access: <= 300 feet (Access must be on the owner's property or an adjacent street or alley.)
“Connection to a public sewer system is required of all homes and businesses”
codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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.”
  codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
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.”
Farm Utility Exemption Notice and Agricultural, Aquaculture and Horticulture Utility Exemption Application ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
  “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision plans in Madison County that propose 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 must be identified and is not assigned a lot number or counted in subdivision approval.
- Submission is made to the local health unit and must include soil-pit data, percolation tests when applicable, test locations, topography, and other information required for review.
- The plan-review fee is $100 minimum for one lot, $25 for each additional lot, capped at $1,500.
- Construction may not begin on any lot until the Department gives final approval of the onsite-wastewater submission.
- The rules are effective September 5, 2024.
initial subdivision plan review fee: >= 100 USD (For one lot.) · additional-lot review fee: per 25 USD (Each following lot.) · maximum subdivision plan review fee: <= 1500 USD
“shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 6, 2026
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 [...]”
  codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
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.”
Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
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.”
22 CAR § 111-705. Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Arkansas Department of Health review fees for individual onsite wastewater permit applications, including systems serving property in Madison County.
- The fee is payable to the Arkansas Department of Health.
- The review fee must be paid before issuance of Part 1 of the Permit Application.
- There is no refund for failure to proceed under the Permit Application.
- Construction must begin within one year of issuance or the permit must be re-validated by the original submitting Designated Representative or the Department’s Authorized Agent.
- Residential auxiliary areas such as garages, carports, porches, and other similar areas are excluded when calculating square footage for the applicable fee.
individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures 1500 square feet or less: 30 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures more than 1500 and up to 2000 square feet: 45 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures more than 2000 and up to 3000 square feet: 90 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures more than 3000 and up to 4000 square feet: 120 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures more than 4000 square feet: 150 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for alteration, repair, or extension: 30 USD
“A fee shall be levied for the review of individual onsite wastewater permit applications as follows: [...] For structures one thousand five hundred square feet (1,500 sq. ft.) or less, the fee to review a permit application is thirty dollars ($30.00); [...] For structures more than four thousand square feet (4,000 sq. ft.), the fee to review a permit application is one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00); and [...] For the alteration, repair, or extension of any individual sewage disposal system, the fee to review a permit application is thirty dollars ($30.00).”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Published (with conditions) — Arkansas Department of Health review fees for onsite wastewater permit applications applicable to property in Madison County.
  “the fee to review a permit application is thirty dollars ($30.00);”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
- Published (with conditions) — Basic design-service fees for Arkansas state department projects governed by the Building Authority Division.
  “$50,001 to $75,000 | 9.25%”
  22 CAR § 111-212. Design services fee schedule ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Arkansas state department development projects located within a hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division-designated flood hazard area.
- The application is submitted on a Design Review Section-approved form.
- The application must identify the site, development type, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, attachments, and applicant contact and signature information.
- Supporting materials may include FEMA maps, other regulatory permits, elevation certificates, no-rise certification, flood-proofing certification, utility or onsite-waste-disposal certification, and watercourse-alteration notification.
- The Design Review Section reviews and approves or disapproves the application; additional information may be requested.
- If approved, the floodplain administrator issues a design-phase development permit; the permit must be posted during construction, followed by compliance review before final acceptance.
permit application timing: before development of covered property · appeal or review completion point: prior to final acceptance
“the department shall submit an application for a development permit”
22 CAR § 111-705. Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Campground & park staysLimited
Recreational vehicle parks in Madison County and elsewhere in Arkansas, meaning parcels with three or more RV spaces occupied or intended for occupancy for transient dwelling purposes, or parcels with three or more RV, tiny-house-on-wheels, or mobile-home spaces where 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 covered spaces exist and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee.
- The owner or operator is responsible for compliance with 20 CAR Part 138.
- Waivers or exceptions are considered case-by-case and approval is at the discretion of the Arkansas Department of Health.
- Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of a mobile home or recreational vehicle park requires submission of detailed plans and receipt of Department of Health approval before work begins.
- Detailed plans and specifications must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, all buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features of the park.
- The rule history states Ark. R. 2026-95, effective August 15, 2026.
minimum covered spaces: >= 3 spaces (Applies to spaces occupied or intended for occupancy.) · placement or maintenance services: provided for a fee (The rule covers new or existing parcels.) · Department of Health approval before construction or alteration: true (Applies to construction, alteration, repair, or extension of a mobile home or recreational vehicle park.)
“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.”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
5 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary camping in an approved recreational vehicle park in Madison County.
  ““Recreational vehicle park” means a parcel of land, for which plans have been approved by the Department of Health, where three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles for transient dwelling purposes, typically by night or week, commonly associated with travel to, at, or near an attraction;”
  codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
- Limited — Occupancy of recreational vehicles in a parcel operated as a mobile home or recreational vehicle park in Madison County, including parks with three or more spaces where placement or maintenance services are 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.”
  20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
- Limited — Camping at Arkansas state-park campsites.
  “Campers may not occupy campsites within the same park in excess of fourteen (14) days within a thirty-day period.”
  22 CAR § 50-108. Camping rules, fee collection, registration, and reservations ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Limited — Temporary overnight occupancy in recreational vehicles at recreational vehicle parks in Arkansas, as to the park's sewage-disposal infrastructure.
  “Each recreational vehicle park shall provide a sanitary station [...]”
  20 CAR § 138-105. Sewage disposal ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
- Limited — Manufactured-home occupancy in Arkansas mobile home parks, as to the park's sewage-disposal infrastructure.
  “Each mobile home space shall be provided with at least a four-inch (4”) diameter sewer riser pipe.”
  20 CAR § 138-105. Sewage disposal ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
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.”
House Bill 2452 — County planning boards and zoning boards of adjustment ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
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.”
  arkleg.state.ar.us ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026

Inside cities and towns in Madison County

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

Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
Land and structures within the City of Huntsville, Madison County, Arkansas.
- The City is divided into zoning districts shown on the Official Zoning Map.
- Land uses and structures must conform to the regulations for the applicable district.
- A building permit requires prior review and issuance of a Certificate of Zoning Compliance.
- The cited code is identified as the 2012 code amended February 2018.
“The City is hereby divided into districts, or zones, as hereinafter described, and as shown on the Official Zoning Map. This map, together with all explanatory data thereon, is hereby adopted by reference, and declared to be a part of this Code.”
City of Huntsville Zoning Code ↗Re-checked Oct 3, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Present (with conditions) — Property within the City of Huntsville, Madison County, Arkansas.
  “The City is hereby divided into districts, or zones, as hereinafter described, and as shown on the Official Zoning Map. This map, together with all explanatory data thereon, is hereby adopted by reference, and declared to be a part of this Code.”
  Zoning & Building | City Of Huntsville ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026

Still unanswered

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

Zoning districts — Publication and applicability of zoning districts in Madison County, including unincorporated areas.
Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size requirements in unincorporated Madison County.
Building height — Building height in unincorporated Madison County.
Manufactured homes — Single-parcel placement or occupancy of manufactured homes outside Arkansas Department of Health-regulated parks in Madison County areas outside the City of Huntsville.
Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling units on property in unincorporated Madison County.

1 more unanswered

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 Madison County, Arkansas

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

Madison County scores 80/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: low administrative friction for a quiet rural property and sparse surroundings — about 978 people within a 30-minute drive.

How much does land cost in Madison County, Arkansas?

Land in Madison County runs about $4,232 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Madison County?

Madison County gets about 49.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 9.4% of years.

How remote is Madison County?

A representative private-land location has about 978 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,060,675 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.

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