Bolthole Index

Monroe County, Arkansas

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

70Index Score / 100
#52 of 75 in Arkansas

Monroe County, Arkansas does not publish a clear answer on whether unincorporated residential construction needs a county building permit, so confirm that with the county clerk or county judge before work begins. Arkansas building-code minimums still apply statewide1, while septic construction requires approval through the Arkansas Department of Health before work and an operation permit before use2,3. Inside a city, ask that city about building permits and zoning; septic approval remains with the state health program4.

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

We could not confirm whether unincorporated Monroe County requires a county building permit, building inspections, or a certificate of occupancy, so ask the county clerk or county judge before starting residential construction.

We could not confirm whether unincorporated Monroe County requires a county building permit, building inspections, or a certificate of occupancy, so ask the county clerk or county judge before starting residential construction. Regardless of local permitting, Arkansas building codes are mandatory statewide minimums, including where no permit or inspection is required1. The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code is the statewide foundation for covered new structures, alterations, additions, and changes in use10. A city or county that issues building permits for new construction must also adopt the Arkansas Energy Code for new construction, additions, and renovations, but that statewide condition does not establish that Monroe County issues building permits11. An owner building their own residence may qualify for the state contractor-licensing exemption when building no more than one residence during a calendar year; that exemption does not waive any county or city building permit1.

Who handles building permits in Monroe County?

Monroe County does not identify a building department in the available county listing, but that does not establish that no county building permit is required.

Monroe County does not identify a building department in the available county listing, but that does not establish that no county building permit is required5. Start with the Monroe County clerk or county judge to confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated and whether a county building permit, inspection, floodplain approval, driveway approval, or certificate of occupancy applies. Inside Clarendon, Brinkley, Holly Grove, or another incorporated place, ask the city specifically about its building permits and zoning approval. Septic authority does not shift to a city building office: contact the Arkansas Department of Health through the county health unit and ask for the Onsite Environmental Specialist4. A driveway onto an Arkansas state highway separately needs an Arkansas Department of Transportation driveway permit before work begins in the right-of-way12.

Does Monroe County have zoning?

We could not confirm whether Monroe County has adopted zoning for all or part of its unincorporated area.

We could not confirm whether Monroe County has adopted zoning for all or part of its unincorporated area. Arkansas counties may adopt zoning for unincorporated territory, so ask the county clerk or county judge for the current ordinance and map before relying on a parcel's present use13. Inside a city, ask that city about zoning approval, setbacks, dwelling size, building height, lot coverage, and manufactured-home placement; septic approval remains with the Arkansas Department of Health4. No general Monroe County minimum lot size was confirmed. State onsite-wastewater rules can still limit a subdivision: where local ordinances do not define one, the state definition includes a common-owner division into three or more lots when any lot is under three acres, and construction cannot begin until the Department of Health gives final approval to the subdivision's onsite-wastewater submission14. A subdivision lot using drip dispersal to establish lot size must be at least 0.5 acre and satisfy the rule's design conditions; that is not a countywide minimum for ordinary parcels14.

How do septic permits work in Monroe County?

Arkansas Department of Health rules control onsite wastewater in Monroe County, either directly or through an authorized agent.

Arkansas Department of Health rules control onsite wastewater in Monroe County, either directly or through an authorized agent3. A designated representative must prepare the construction-permit application, and the Department or its agent must approve the application and detailed plans before building or residential construction begins2. Published individual-system review fees run from $30 to $150 based on the structure's square footage, excluding garages, carports, and porches; repair, alteration, or extension review is $3015. After installation, the installer must request inspection, and the system cannot be used until a permit for operation is issued3. Only 0.7% of Monroe County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility an early purchase condition16. Off-grid sanitation is not an alternative when an available sanitary sewer lies within 300 feet of the building-sewer exit and connection can be made without crossing another person's property: privies and onsite wastewater systems cannot be built, maintained, or used there3.

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

We could not confirm a Monroe County rule that permits or prohibits living in one RV or tiny home on private land, so ask the county clerk or county judge before moving onto the parcel.

We could not confirm a Monroe County rule that permits or prohibits living in one RV or tiny home on private land, so ask the county clerk or county judge before moving onto the parcel. Arkansas health rules answer a narrower question: a site with three or more fee-supported RV spaces is regulated as a recreational-vehicle or mobile-home park and needs Department of Health plan approval before construction, alteration, repair, or extension8. A tiny house on wheels within that setting is treated under the park rules according to whether it is plumbed and inspected9. Those multi-space park rules do not settle single-unit private occupancy. Any occupied unit still needs lawful sanitation and approved onsite wastewater2. Privies and onsite systems are prohibited when an available sanitary sewer is within 300 feet of the building-sewer exit and connection can be made without crossing another person's property3.

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

Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Monroe County or inside a city; ask the county or city specifically about building permits and zoning approval.

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Monroe County or inside a city; ask the county or city specifically about building permits and zoning approval.
  2. Ask the county clerk or county judge whether a county building permit, inspection, floodplain approval, driveway approval, or certificate of occupancy applies; the county requirement could not be confirmed.
  3. Design to Arkansas's statewide building-code minimums even if the applicable office says no building permit or inspection is required1.
  4. Decide who will build; the state owner-builder contractor-license exemption does not waive a building permit or other approval1.
  5. Determine whether an available sanitary sewer is within 300 feet and reachable without crossing another person's property; if so, onsite wastewater is prohibited3.
  6. If septic is allowed, have a designated representative prepare the application and obtain approval before construction2.
  7. Use qualified well professionals, and obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation driveway permit for access onto a state highway7,12.
  8. Have the septic installation inspected and receive the operation permit before using it3.

What should you check before buying land in Monroe County?

Make wastewater feasibility the first contingency: only 0.7% of Monroe County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.

Make wastewater feasibility the first contingency: only 0.7% of Monroe County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field16. Check for nearby public sewer before paying for septic design, because connection is mandatory under the stated 300-foot availability rule6. For a well, Arkansas rules require qualified personnel during construction, alteration, repair, and pump work; siting must account for contamination sources, geology, aquifer depth, pumping effects, and flooding7. Verify legal access and obtain a state permit if the driveway meets a state highway12. About 25.1% of Monroe County is federal land, so confirm boundaries and access across neighboring public property16. Property taxes average about a 0.5% effective rate, with a $405 median annual bill, but verify the parcel's assessment and exemptions rather than budgeting from countywide figures alone16.

Watch-outs

  • A nearby sanitary sewer can eliminate the onsite option: connection is required when the sewer is available within 300 feet and can be reached without crossing another person's property6.
  • A septic construction approval is not permission to use the system; inspection and a permit for operation come first2,3.
  • The farm-building exemption covers specified electrical licensing and code provisions for nonresidential farm structures, not every building, septic, floodplain, or land-use rule17.

Sources

17 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 9, 2026

  1. Home Improvement New Application / Test Information
  2. 14 CAR § 21-301. Generally
  3. Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024)
  4. Arkansas Department of Health - Onsite Wastewater FAQs (2026 county census)
  5. Arkansas.gov - Monroe County (county offices) (2026 county census)
  6. 14 CAR § 21-301. Generally
  7. 17 CAR § 11-502. Location
  8. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov
  9. 20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions
  10. 2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code Rules Changes
  11. 2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments
  12. codeofarrules.arkansas.gov
  13. arkleg.state.ar.us (Arkansas statewide rule)
  14. 14 CAR § 21-102. Definitions
  15. Onsite Wastewater Fee Schedule
  16. 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
  17. 17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Monroe County has no countywide zoning.

RuleMonroe CountyPrairie CountyLee CountyArkansas CountyPhillips CountyWoodruff CountySt. Francis County
Building permitNot requiredLimitedNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
Septic permitsADHAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of HealthAR Dept. of Health

County locator

Monroe County in Arkansas

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

How Monroe County scores

70 / 100 · #52 of 75 in Arkansas · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion70100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency51100% ev.
Admin Boringness85100% ev.
Durability45100% ev.
Property Autonomy47100% ev.
Carry Cost85100% 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 →

$90kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$3,754Land / acre
50.4"Annual rain
8.2% of yrsSevere drought
22.1 / yr (+18.5)Mid-century 100°F days
17.3 daysMid-century dry spell
2.37" (+8.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.54×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,688Home insurance / yr
0.9% / yrInsurance growth
0%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
7,790People within 30 min
2,437,445People within 2 hr
8,117Radius comparison (15 mi)
10.7People / sq mi
25.1%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
0.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
2,471 acWorkable land screen
41.5%Wooded land
67.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
62.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Monroe 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.

Brinkley · Clarendon · Town of Fargo · Holly Grove · Town of Roe

Answers from the rulebook for Monroe County

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

Monroe County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    No county planning/zoning office is listed; zoning exists only within incorporated cities, not at the county level.

    Arkansas.gov - Monroe County ↗From the county’s own site, awaiting a second reviewer

Arkansas rules that apply here

  • Building permitLimited

    Construction subject to the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.

    • The source does not impose a single statewide building-permit requirement for all private residential and commercial construction.
    • Local governments may establish prior plan approval, building-permit requirements, and construction inspections.
    • Counties, cities, or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code for new construction, additions, and renovations.
    • The cited document is the 2014 Arkansas Energy Code; current Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applicability should be confirmed separately.
    “A local government may exercise other administrative and enforcement procedures that it deems necessary to affect the purposes of this Code, including, but not limited to, prior plan approval, building permit requirements, and inspections during the course of construction.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Residential construction in Arkansas, including rural and unincorporated areas of Monroe County, as a statewide building-code compliance overlay.
      “Arkansas Building Codes are mandatory statewide minimums. They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
    • Limited — Construction subject to the Arkansas Building Code statewide minimums, including rural and unincorporated areas.
      “They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    An owner acting as the residential building contractor for construction of the owner's own residence, and an owner acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's own property; this is a contractor-licensing exemption, not a local building-permit exemption.

    • The owner is exempt from residential-builder licensure when acting as the contractor in construction of the owner's residence unless the owner builds more than one residence during a calendar year.
    • An owner acting as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's own property is exempt from the stated residential builder and home improvement licensing requirements.
    • The source separately states that statewide building codes apply even where no permit or inspections are required.
    • This claim does not waive any Monroe County or municipal permit requirement.

    maximum owner-built residences per calendar year: <= 1 residences (The exemption does not apply if the owner builds more than one residence during any calendar year.)

    “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”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Owner acting as the residential building contractor for construction of the owner's residence, or acting as the owner's own home improvement contractor on the owner's own property, including in Monroe County.
      “The following shall be exempted from the licensing requirements of this subchapter: (1) A person who acts as a residential building contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year; (2) The owner of a single family residence acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property;”
    • Available (with conditions) — Arkansas residential contractor licensing for an individual constructing the individual’s own residence or an owner of a single-family residence acting as the owner’s own home-improvement contractor on the owner’s property.
      “construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one (1) residence during any calendar year;”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Arkansas cities, counties, and municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction; the source addresses the Arkansas Energy Code component rather than proving a complete local building-code ordinance for Brinkley or Monroe County.

    • Applicable cities or counties are required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code as amended.
    • The rule applies to new construction, additions, and renovation of existing structures.
    • A local municipality may not modify the energy-conservation standards or adopt rules less stringent than the Code.
    • The source states an adoption deadline of December 31, 2014 and an effective date of January 1, 2015 for the 2014 Arkansas Energy Code document.
    • This claim does not establish that the City of Brinkley adopted a separate local building-code ordinance.

    code: 2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments · adoption deadline: 2014-12-31 · effective date: 2015-01-01

    “All counties, cities or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt this Code for new construction, additions and renovation of existing structures. However, the local municipality shall not in any way modify the energy conservation standards in this Code or promulgate or adopt rules or regulations that are less stringent than this Code.”
    8 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New construction, alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures within Monroe County to the extent covered by the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code.
      “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code is the fire prevention code for the State of Arkansas.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State projects in Arkansas, including projects located in Monroe County, subject to the state-project rule.
      “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) — Arkansas Energy Code requirements for new building construction, additions, and renovation of existing structures in Arkansas jurisdictions that issue building permits.
      “For residential and commercial structures, Arkansas adopts the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), 2009 Edition, published and copyrighted by the International Codes Council.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building and residential construction governed by the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code in Monroe County and elsewhere in Arkansas.
      “The Arkansas Fire Prevention Code applies statewide and is the fire and building code for all jurisdictions within Arkansas.”
    • Partial — Arkansas counties and municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction, including any such authority in Monroe County.
      “any city or county in Arkansas which issues building permits for new building construction [...] shall adopt the Arkansas Energy Code as amended.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures throughout Arkansas, under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including Volume II for building-code requirements and Volume III for residential-code requirements.
      “Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state shall only adopt and enforce the provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition. [...] The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the International Building Code Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the International Building Code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, shall be made in accordance therewith.”
    • Partial — State projects in Arkansas.
      “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State projects in Arkansas subject to the Building Authority Division design-review rules.
      “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office. Arkansas laws and this subchapter shall have precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed the requirements of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. All project designs shall comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. Other codes, rules, or standards may be applicable to a specific project. It is the department’s and design professional’s responsibility to determine all applicable codes for each specific project.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction or work that must comply with the Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments.

    • Inspection is required for construction or work that must comply with the cited Code.
    • Inspection may be performed by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission Energy Office, its agent, or the code official.
    • Code officials within a county or municipality that has adopted the Code and normally conducts final inspections shall perform final inspection and approval when the building is completed and ready for occupancy.
    • The local government may conduct additional inspections during construction.
    “Construction or work that must comply with this Code shall be subject to inspection by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission - Energy Office or its agent, or by the code official.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Open-enrollment public charter schools commencing student operations in a new or renovated facility anywhere in Arkansas.

    • Before commencing operations with students, the school must obtain one of three alternative approvals for the new construction or renovation.
    • The alternatives are: a certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official and approved by the state fire marshal; a certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or a certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.
    • A certificate of occupancy is therefore not independently mandatory when one of the two listed alternative approvals is obtained.
    “An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — State of Arkansas construction projects administered by a state owner or agency.
      “Certificates of Occupancy are not issued by any one State Agency for State projects. The responsibility therefore rests with the Owner/Agency of the project.”
    • Limited — Buildings subject to the Arkansas Energy Code when located in a county or municipality that has adopted the Code and conducts final inspections as part of normal operations.
      “An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots in Arkansas subdivision developments using drip dispersal design to determine minimum lot size, including Monroe County.

    • The rule applies to subdivision development under Arkansas onsite-wastewater rules.
    • Minimum depth to bedrock must comply with 14 CAR § 21-602(b)(3).
    • Primary and secondary absorption areas must be flagged on contour.
    • Legal descriptions of the primary and secondary absorption areas must be included in the legal descriptions of the lots.
    • Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be five-tenths (0.5) of an acre or larger.

    minimum lot size for drip dispersal design: >= 0.5 acre (Applies when the stated drip-dispersal criteria are met.)

    “Drip dispersal design may be used in determining minimum lot size for subdivisions when the following criteria are met: (i) Minimum depth to bedrock in 14 CAR § 21-602(b)(3); (ii) Primary and secondary absorption areas are flagged on contour; and (iii) Legal description of primary and secondary absorption areas included in the legal description of those lots. (B) Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be five-tenths (0.5) of an acre or larger.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Lots in Arkansas residential subdivisions using drip-dispersal design to determine minimum lot size for onsite wastewater purposes, including applicable subdivisions in Monroe County.
      “Drip dispersal design may be used in determining minimum lot size for subdivisions when the following criteria are met: [...] (B) Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be five-tenths (0.5) of an acre or larger.”
  • 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;”
  • Living in an RVLimited

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

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

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

    “Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Three or more recreational-vehicle spaces on a parcel in Arkansas where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee; this state rule is relevant to such facilities in Monroe County.
      “three (3) or more spaces [...] occupied [...] by recreational vehicles [...] where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee”
  • Tiny homesLimited

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

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

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

    “three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Tiny houses on wheels placed in a three-or-more-space fee-supported mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park in Arkansas; this state rule is relevant to such facilities in Monroe County.
      ““Tiny house on wheels” means a structure intended as a habitable dwelling for one (1) or more individuals”
    • 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)

    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”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State — Onsite wastewater systems in Monroe County, including construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation.
      “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department.”
  • Septic permitRequired

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

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

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

    “A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or residence. [...] Permit requirement. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite wastewater system, owned by any other person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency until the owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, extension, and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Monroe County, including unincorporated areas.
      “Part I of the permit is the permit for construction. [...] The system shall not be used until the permit for operation is issued.”
  • 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 — Installation and operation approval for onsite wastewater systems in Monroe County.
      “It shall be the duty of the installer to notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative, when the installation is ready for inspection.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

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

    • Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department may be used.
    • The devices must be evaluated by an ANSI-approved laboratory under NSF Standard 41.
    • Wastewater other than urine and feces must be renovated or disposed of under Sections 8 or 9 of the rule.
    • Stabilized compost must be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary landfill.
    • The system remains subject to applicable onsite wastewater permitting and approval requirements.
    “Only pre-manufactured composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta on premises in Monroe County.
      “No privies, onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Water-well construction, alteration, repair, and associated pumping-equipment work in Monroe County.

    • During construction, alteration, or repair of a water well, or installation or repair of pumping equipment, a certified registrant or an apprentice under required personal supervision must be on site.
    • Well locations must account for contamination sources, geology, aquifer depth, pumping effects, and flooding.
    • For clay and loam soils, the rule lists minimum distances including 100 feet from septic tanks and 50 feet from specified sewers; distances increase where upper formations are more pervious.
    • Flood-prone locations should be avoided, but construction may occur in flood zones where no reasonable alternate site exists if special protective construction is included.
    • Vertical closed-loop systems/wells must be at least 50 feet from septic tanks, field lines, and other human-consumption water wells; the distance may be waived through the stated process, and written commission approval is required before construction of the well.
    • Industrial or irrigation wells may not be within 100 feet of another well producing potable water.

    minimum distance from septic tank: >= 100 feet (For clay and loam soils under 17 CAR § 11-502(c)(1).) · minimum distance from specified sewers: >= 50 feet (For cast iron sewers with watertight, leaded, or mechanical joints in clay and loam soils.) · vertical closed-loop distance from septic tank, field lines, or human-consumption well: >= 50 feet (May be waived; written commission approval is required before construction.)

    “This requirement may be waived. [...] Written approval must be obtained from the commission prior to construction of the well.”
    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.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Premises in Monroe County where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits the building, is available to the premises, and connection can be made without crossing another person's property.

    • All premises meeting the distance, availability, and property-crossing conditions must connect to sanitary sewer.
    • No privies, onsite wastewater systems, or other receptacles for human excreta may be constructed, maintained, or used on premises subject to the connection rule.
    • Plumbing must comply with the Arkansas Plumbing Code, 17 CAR pt. 65.

    connection distance: <= 300 feet (Measured from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property.)

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

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

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

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

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

    Predominantly residential subdivisions statewide, including subdivisions in Monroe County, when the subdivision uses onsite wastewater systems.

    • In the absence of local ordinances, Arkansas defines subdivision as land divided for predominantly residential purposes into three or more lots or parcels, any of which contains less than three acres, as part of a uniform plan of development.
    • Primary and secondary absorption areas must be sized according to natural soil conditions and applicable loading rates.
    • Construction of any type may not begin on a subdivision lot until the Arkansas Department of Health gives final approval of the onsite-wastewater submission.
    • The rule is a wastewater/subdivision review requirement and does not establish that Monroe County has adopted a general land-use subdivision ordinance.

    approval authority: Arkansas Department of Health (or its applicable authorized agent) · subdivision threshold absent local ordinance: >= 3 lots or parcels (Predominantly residential uniform-plan development where any unit contains less than three acres.)

    “Primary and secondary absorption areas in a subdivision shall be sized according to natural soil conditions for standard onsite wastewater systems using loading rates found in Table 1. [...] Construction of any type shall not begin upon any lot in the subdivision until final approval of the submission for utilization of onsite wastewater systems within the subdivision has been made by the Department of Health.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Predominantly residential subdivision development in Monroe County where Arkansas onsite-wastewater subdivision rules apply, including subdivisions in the absence of local ordinances.
      “Construction of any type shall not begin upon any lot in the subdivision until final approval of the submission for utilization of onsite wastewater systems within the subdivision has been made by the Department of Health.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats that are boundary surveys creating parcels in Arkansas.
      “Subdivision plats [...] are to be filed with the State Surveyor’s office [...] Filing is not required [...] for survey plats [...] located in a municipality [...]”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Noncommercial access driveways adjoining Arkansas state highways in Monroe County.

    • Within incorporated cities, the applicant must satisfy city requirements and obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation permit.
    • City requirements must meet or exceed the state rule.
    • No work may begin on state highway right-of-way until the engineer issues the permit.
    • Noncommercial driveway permits do not require a bond, but a bond may be required for more than one noncommercial driveway.
    • Permits expire one year from issuance; if work has not begun, the permit may be revoked.

    noncommercial driveway permit expiration: 1 year from date of issue (If no work has begun at expiration, permit may be revoked) · bond requirement for one noncommercial driveway: false (A bond may be required for more than one noncommercial driveway)

    “A permit shall be obtained from the Arkansas Department of Transportation for all noncommercial access driveways on state highways.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, reconstruction, modification, or relocation of access driveways on Arkansas State Highway right-of-way, including residential, commercial, and temporary access driveways.
      “A permit shall be obtained from the Department for all access driveways on State Highways.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development by an Arkansas state department on property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area.

    • The rule applies to a state department proposing the development, not generally to all private or local development statewide.
    • The department must submit an application on a form approved by the Design Review Section.
    • The application must include the application number, date, department or property owner, site address or legal description, development type, brief description, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, attachment acknowledgment, and applicant contact/signature information.
    • Supporting attachments should include the FEMA map, copies of other regulatory permits such as Clean Water Act sections 401 and 404 permits, elevation certificates, a certification of no increase in base flood elevation or no-rise certificate, a flood-proofing certificate, certifications for water supply, sanitary sewer, and on-site waste disposal systems, and notification of watercourse alteration or relocation.
    • The Design Review Section reviews and approves or disapproves the application; if approved, the floodplain administrator issues a development permit for the design phase.
    • The permit must be posted during construction; the site is reviewed before final acceptance; and noncompliant work requires correction or may be designated a nonconforming use site.
    • For riverine watercourse alteration or relocation, the department must notify the division, adjacent communities, and the state NFIP Coordinator at the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission before the alteration or relocation, submit copies to the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, maintain flood-carrying capacity, and provide an engineering study of before-and-after conditions prepared by a registered professional engineer.
    • For structures and equipment pads under the state rule, elevation requirements vary by FEMA-map and base-flood-elevation availability: two feet above adjacent grade where no FEMA map exists; two feet above the Building Authority Division base flood elevation where no nearby FEMA base flood elevation data exists; and one foot above the accepted or mapped base flood elevation in the circumstances specified by 22 CAR § 111-708.

    minimum elevation where no FEMA map exists and site is flood-prone: 2 feet above adjacent grade · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists but no base flood elevation data is provided within 500 feet: 2 feet above the Building Authority Division-established base flood elevation · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists, no site base flood elevation is provided, and a base flood elevation is available within 500 feet or from another authoritative source: 1 foot above the base flood elevation accepted by the division · minimum elevation where FEMA map provides a base flood elevation at the site: 1 foot above the elevation shown on the map in the flood insurance study, if available, or as interpolated between map elevations

    “When a department proposes to develop property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area, the department shall submit an application for a development permit on a form approved by the Design Review Section.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Arkansas onsite wastewater permit review fees applicable to property in Monroe County.

    • Fees are for Arkansas Department of Health onsite wastewater permit review.
    • Plan review fees are collected when plans are submitted and before review.
    • For residential structure square footage, auxiliary areas such as garages, carports, and porches are excluded from the fee calculation.
    • Subdivision plan review is $100 for the first lot and $25 for each additional lot, capped at $1,500.

    individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structure 1500 sq. ft. or less: 30 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structure more than 1500 and up to 2000 sq. ft.: 45 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structure more than 2000 and up to 3000 sq. ft.: 90 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structure more than 3000 and up to 4000 sq. ft.: 120 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structure more than 4000 sq. ft.: 150 USD · repair, alteration, or extension review fee: 30 USD

    “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);”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • 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 [...]”
    • 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.”
  • 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.

  • Local zoning — Local zoning within Monroe County, including incorporated municipalities and unincorporated areas; this aggregate cannot be established from the official pages located.
  • Zoning districts — Zoning districts in Monroe County, including unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Monroe County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Setbacks — General building or land-use setbacks in Monroe County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Building height — Building-height limits in Monroe County, including unincorporated areas.
4 more unanswered
  • Camping on your land
  • Manufactured homes
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Short-term rentals

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

Water rights & wells in Monroe County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Arkansas’s water agency.

Over-appropriated / declining

The aquifer here is over-appropriated and declining. A domestic well is usually still permit-exempt, but long-term supply is a genuine risk.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Critical Groundwater Area designation in Arkansas is explicitly NON-regulatory — no water right or permit is required to drill or use a well, even inside a critical area. A new landowner can drill a household well anywhere.

Limit: non-domestic users >=50,000 gpd register; domestic exempt

Arkansas Dept of Agriculture — Water-Use Registration / Critical Groundwater Areas ↗

Regulated-riparian state (large uses permitted). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Arkansas state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Monroe County, Arkansas

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

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

How much does land cost in Monroe County, Arkansas?

Land in Monroe County runs about $3,754 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Monroe County?

Monroe County gets about 50.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.2% of years. On water rights, Monroe County lies in the Grand Prairie Critical Ground Water Area — CGWA (1998) over the Mississippi River Valley alluvial + Sparta aquifers in the rice belt; large alluvial cone of depression (20-50% saturated thickness). Non-regulatory; domestic wells not barred..

How remote is Monroe County?

A representative private-land location has about 7,790 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,437,445 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 Monroe compares in Arkansas

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