Phillips County, AR Building Permits, Zoning & Septic

Unincorporated Phillips County, Arkansas does not require a county building permit, but Arkansas construction standards still apply¹². No countywide zoning applies to unincorporated land, while Helena-West Helena has its own zoning and inspection rules³⁴. Septic construction and operation require Arkansas Department of Health approval⁵⁶.

At a glance

Building permit: Not required in unincorporated Phillips County; ask county government to verify the parcel and project¹⁷
Zoning: No countywide zoning in unincorporated areas; Helena-West Helena has city zoning³⁴
Septic permits: Required through the Arkansas Department of Health and the Phillips County Local Health Unit⁵⁶
Owner-builder: A qualifying owner may build the owner's residence without a residential-contractor license⁸
RV or tiny-home living: Private-land occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask county government before moving onto a parcel⁷
Septic soil difficulty: Only 2.6% of soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field⁹
State-highway driveway: An ARDOT permit is required for a noncommercial driveway adjoining a state highway¹⁰

Who to call

Septic permits

Arkansas Department of Health, Phillips County Local Health Unit

Local contact for Arkansas Department of Health onsite-wastewater applications; ask for the Environmental Health Specialist

(870) 572-9028

110 Shirley Hicks Dr., Helena-West Helena, AR 72390

Online permits →

Also useful

Phillips County Government

General county contact for questions about unincorporated parcels

(870) 338-5500

600 Cherry Street, Helena-West Helena, AR 72342

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 28, 2026.

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

A county building permit is not required for a home on unincorporated land in Phillips County¹. Before ordering plans or starting work, call Phillips County Government to verify that the parcel is outside a city and ask whether floodplain review or another project-specific approval applies⁷. Arkansas's statewide Fire Prevention Code governs new structures and applicable alterations even where a local permit is not required². A qualifying owner may build the owner's residence without a residential-contractor license, but that licensing exemption does not erase any permit, inspection, zoning or occupancy rule that applies to the site⁸.

Who handles Phillips County building permits and inspections?

Phillips County does not list a separate building department for unincorporated construction; start with Phillips County Government at (870) 338-5500 or 600 Cherry Street, Helena-West Helena, AR 72342¹⁷. Give the county the parcel number and project description, and ask who handles floodplain review and any special approval. Inside Helena-West Helena, the city inspects construction, plumbing, HVAC and electrical work for compliance with state codes¹¹. Septic approval is separate: the Arkansas Department of Health is the permitting authority, working through the Environmental Health Specialist assigned to the county¹².

Does Phillips County have zoning?

Unincorporated Phillips County does not have countywide zoning³. That answer does not settle every parcel question: we could not confirm county rules for minimum dwelling size, setbacks, lot coverage, building height, RV occupancy or tiny-home occupancy, so ask Phillips County Government about the proposed use and exact location⁷. Helena-West Helena is different because the city identifies its own zoning map, zoning code and zoning-application process⁴. Confirm city limits before relying on the county answer, and review deed restrictions, subdivision covenants, floodplain status and utility conditions separately because those can affect a project even without countywide zoning.

How do septic permits work in Phillips County?

Phillips County onsite wastewater systems require Arkansas Department of Health approval through the Phillips County Local Health Unit⁵¹³. A designated representative completes the construction application, and Department approval is required before work begins; the system cannot be used until an operating permit is issued⁶. New-system review fees range from $30 to $150 by structure size, while an alteration, repair or extension costs $30¹⁴. Only 2.6% of county soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field, so make septic evaluation an early purchase contingency⁹. A sanitary sewer must be used when it is within 300 feet of the building's sewer-exit point and is available without crossing another person's property¹⁵.

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

We could not confirm a Phillips County rule allowing or prohibiting long-term occupancy of one RV or tiny home on private, unincorporated land. Ask Phillips County Government about occupancy, temporary use, floodplain limits and sanitation before moving onto the parcel⁷. Arkansas regulates a narrower situation: a parcel with three or more paid spaces for RVs, tiny houses on wheels or mobile homes is treated as a mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park and requires health-department compliance¹⁶. That park rule does not answer whether one owner may live in one unit. Any occupied site still needs lawful wastewater disposal, and an onsite system requires construction approval and an operating permit¹⁷.

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

Confirm that the parcel is outside city limits, then call Phillips County Government to verify the county building-permit answer and ask about floodplain review for the exact site¹⁷.

If the driveway will join a state highway, obtain an ARDOT permit before beginning work in the highway right-of-way¹⁰.

Have a designated representative evaluate the site and prepare the onsite-wastewater application; obtain Department of Health construction approval before septic work starts⁶.

Build to the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code and any rules that apply within the parcel's jurisdiction².

Complete the septic inspection process and obtain the operating permit before using the system¹⁸.

What should you check before buying land in Phillips County?

Make septic feasibility the first physical test: only 2.6% of Phillips County soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field⁹. The terrain is generally gentle, with 96.8% of land at a slope of 15% or less, while 18.9% is wooded¹⁹²⁰. Confirm floodplain status, legal road access and utility availability for the actual parcel; a driveway adjoining a state highway needs an ARDOT permit¹⁰. The typical effective property-tax rate is about 0.7%, and the median annual bill is about $500²¹²². Finally, verify jurisdiction with Phillips County Government because Helena-West Helena has city zoning and inspections that do not govern unincorporated land⁷⁴¹¹.

Watch-outs

Ask Phillips County Government to verify that the parcel is unincorporated and that the proposed work does not need a project-specific approval before construction¹⁷.
Do not apply Helena-West Helena zoning or inspection rules to unincorporated land, and do not assume county rules govern property inside city limits⁴¹¹.
State-highway frontage does not create automatic driveway access; ARDOT approval is required before constructing a noncommercial driveway adjoining a state highway¹⁰.

Sources

Written September 28, 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.

How Phillips County scores

Seclusion86100% ev.

Self-Sufficiency49100% ev.

Admin Boringness85100% ev.

Durability52100% 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 →

$48kTypical home

0.7%Property tax

$3,345Land / acre

51.5"Annual rain

8.8% of yrsSevere drought

20.3 / yr (+17.7)Mid-century 100°F days

17.5 daysMid-century dry spell

2.47" (+6.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain

1.57×Wildfire change factor

100%Forward climate coverage

$1,661Home insurance / yr

-0.1% / yrInsurance growth

1.22%Nonrenewal rate

county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis

923People within 30 min

563,184People within 2 hr

10,902Radius comparison (15 mi)

21.7People / sq mi

8.1%Federal land

96.8%Land at 15% slope or less

2.6%Septic soil without severe limits

10,942 acWorkable land screen

18.9%Wooded land

80.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac

62.7°FAvg temp

Answers from the rulebook for Phillips County

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

Phillips County rules

County-wide zoningAbsent
Zoning in Phillips County is administered at the city level (Helena-West Helena code enforcement); no countywide zoning ordinance for unincorporated areas was found.
Arkansas.gov - Phillips County ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

Arkansas rules that apply here

Building permitLimited
Construction subject to the Arkansas Building Code statewide minimums, including rural and unincorporated areas.
- Arkansas Building Code requirements apply statewide even where no permit is required.
- The source does not establish a universal statewide building-permit requirement; applicable permit requirements may depend on the responsible local or other code authority.
“They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
Arkansas residential-contractor licensing for an owner constructing the owner's residence or an owner acting as home-improvement contractor for the owner's single-family residence; this statewide rule includes Phillips County.
- The exemption is from the licensing requirements of Arkansas Code Annotated § 17-25-501 et seq.; it does not itself establish an exemption from any county or municipal building-permit, inspection, or occupancy requirement.
- For construction of the owner's residence, the person loses this exemption if the person builds more than one residence during any calendar year.
- For home improvement, the owner must be the owner of a single-family residence and act as the owner's own home-improvement contractor on the owner's own property.
maximum residences constructed while retaining owner construction exemption: <= 1 residence per calendar year (Applies to a person acting as residential building contractor in construction of his or her residence.)
“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;”
Arkansas Residential Contractors Licensing Law ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- 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 adoptedPartial
The Arkansas Energy Code component of the building-code framework for counties, cities, and municipalities in Arkansas, including Phillips County when it issues building permits for new building construction.
- Only counties, cities, or municipalities that issue building permits for new building construction are required to adopt the Code.
- The requirement 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.
- Local governments may use additional administrative and enforcement procedures, including prior plan approval, building permit requirements, and inspections during construction.
- Applicable cities and counties were required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code before December 31, 2014.
- If an applicable city or county had not adopted by December 31, 2014, the mayor or county judge was required to submit a noncompliance letter to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission - Energy Office within 60 days after the deadline.
adoption deadline: < 2014-12-31 · effective date: 2015-01-01
“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 Sep 26, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Adopted (with conditions) — New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures throughout Arkansas, under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including Volume II for building-code requirements and Volume III for residential-code requirements.
  “Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state shall only adopt and enforce the provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition. [...] The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the International Building Code Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the International Building Code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, shall be made in accordance therewith.”
  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
Construction subject to Arkansas Building Code compliance and any applicable inspection regime.
- The official statewide source expressly recognizes areas where inspections are not required.
- Where an inspection is required, the applicable inspection authority and process are not specified by this statewide source.
“areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 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
One more reviewed finding 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
Living in an RVLimited
Recreational-vehicle occupancy on any Arkansas parcel with three or more RV spaces occupied or intended for occupancy where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, including qualifying parcels in Phillips County.
- The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park when the three-space and fee-service threshold is met.
- The owner or operator is responsible for compliance with the applicable part.
- 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 prior department approval.
- 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.
- The rule history states Ark. R. 2026-95, effective August 15, 2026.
minimum RV spaces: >= 3 spaces (Applies when placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee.) · services: placement or maintenance services, or both (Services 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
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
  “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
- Limited — Tiny houses on wheels in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks where three or more spaces receive placement or maintenance services 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 11, 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
Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)
Accessory dwelling units on lots or parcels containing a single-family dwelling within Arkansas municipalities, including municipalities in Phillips County.
- The unit must be self-contained and independently accessed, on the same parcel as a larger single-family dwelling, and include cooking, sleeping, and sanitation facilities.
- A municipality may not restrict, prohibit, or otherwise regulate at least one accessory dwelling unit by right, except as provided in Act 313.
- An attached or detached unit may not exceed 75% of the primary dwelling's gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less.
- Municipal regulatory requirements, including the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, local ordinances, zoning ordinances, design standards, and other applicable state and local laws, still apply.
- A municipality may require water/sewer will-serve letters or Department of Health approval where municipal service is unavailable.
- Application review fees may not exceed $250 per unit, in addition to usual building fees.
- Conflicting policies, regulations, or ordinances in effect on or after January 1, 2026 are invalid to the extent of the conflict.
maximum detached or attached ADU size: <= 75 percent of primary dwelling gross floor area (or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less) · maximum detached or attached ADU size: <= 1000 square feet (or 75% of primary dwelling gross floor area, whichever is less) · maximum ADU application review fee: <= 250 USD per unit (usual building fees may also apply)
“Except as provided in this section, a municipality shall not adopt a policy, regulation, or ordinance that restricts, prohibits, or otherwise regulates the use of at least one (1) accessory dwelling unit by right on a lot or parcel that contains a single-family dwelling.”
Act 313 of the Regular Session ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Who permits septicState
Onsite wastewater systems in Phillips County, including systems administered through the county-assigned Environmental Health Specialist.
- The Arkansas Department of Health is the rulemaking and permitting authority.
- The authorized agent is the Environmental Health Specialist assigned to the county or business unit by the Department of Health.
““Authorized agent” means the Environmental Health Specialist assigned to the county or business unit by the Department of Health.”
14 CAR § 21-102. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems in Phillips County.
- Part I construction approval is required before initiating construction.
- A permit for operation must be issued before the system may be used.
- A permit shall be refused where public sewer systems are reasonably available or economically feasible, subject to the exception in 14 CAR § 21-204.
- Emergency repairs may begin without prior permit, but a permit must be obtained within ten working days after repairs are made.
- Other applicable laws, rules, and the Arkansas Sewage Disposal Systems Act may independently affect permit issuance.
emergency repair permit deadline: 10 working days after repairs (Emergency repairs may proceed without prior issuance of a permit.)
“Part I of the permit application form shall be: (A) Completed by a designated representative; and (B) Approved by the Department of Health or its authorized agent prior to initiating construction.”
14 CAR § 21-303. Permit Procedure ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Septic inspectionLimited
Installation inspections for onsite wastewater systems in Phillips County.
- An installation inspection may be made during any phase of installation.
- The installer must notify the authorized agent or designated representative when the installation is ready for inspection.
- The property owner or occupant must provide reasonable-time access.
- The installer must submit required documentation to the local health unit within five days.
- The inspection may be made by the authorized agent or by a designated representative approved by the authorized agent.
- A permit for operation follows approval of the inspection, and the system may not be used before that permit is issued.
installer documentation deadline: 5 days
“Part II of the permit application is the installation inspection.”
14 CAR § 21-303. Permit Procedure ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
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”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Use of onsite wastewater systems as an alternative to public sewer service in Phillips County.
  “Except as provided in 14 CAR § 21-204, a permit for the construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of an onsite wastewater system or alternate/experimental system shall be refused where public sewer systems are reasonably available or economically feasible, or in instances where the issuance of such permit is in conflict with the other applicable laws and rules or where the issuance of such permit is in conflict with the public policy declared in Acts 1977, No. 402 (the Arkansas Sewage Disposal Systems Act, Arkansas Code § 14-236-101 et seq.), except that emergency repairs may be undertaken without prior issuance of a permit, provided a permit is subsequently obtained within ten (10) working days after the repairs are made.”
  14 CAR § 21-303. Permit Procedure ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Well permitLimited
Construction of new wells or withdrawal from existing wells within a designated critical groundwater area in Phillips County, if the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission has issued an order implementing regulation there.
- The water-right requirement applies only after an Arkansas Natural Resources Commission order implementing regulation in the designated critical groundwater area.
- The rule concerns obtaining a water right, distinct from a local county permit.
- The applicable geographic boundaries are those designated by the Commission.
“After an order by the commission implementing regulation, no person shall withdraw groundwater from an existing well or construct a new well within the critical groundwater area without first obtaining a water right.”
15 CAR § 21-302. Initiation of regulation ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Public and semi-public water wells in Phillips County.
  “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.”
  17 CAR § 11-607. Public and semi-public wells ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
- 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 premises where a sanitary sewer is within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits the building and available without crossing another person's property.
- When the stated distance and availability conditions are met, connection to the sanitary sewer is required.
- Privies, onsite wastewater systems, and other receptacles for human excreta may not be constructed, maintained, or used on the premises under that condition.
sewer distance from building sewer-exit point: <= 300 feet (sewer must be available without crossing another person's property)
“All premises shall be connected to a sanitary sewer when within three hundred feet (300’) from the point where the sewer exits a building on the property owner’s property and available to said premises when connection can be made without crossing another person's property.”
14 CAR § 21-301. Generally ↗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)
Subdivisions statewide, including Phillips County, that propose standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of their lots or tracts.
- Plans must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval.
- Unsuitable lots must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
- Green or community space must be identified and is not assigned a lot number or considered 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 at least $100 for one lot, $25 for each following lot, capped at $1,500.
- All lots are designed for three-bedroom residences unless otherwise indicated.
- Three copies of the plans are required and a FEMA flood-zone determination is required.
- Construction on any lot may not begin until final approval of the subdivision's onsite-wastewater utilization submission.
plan review fee for one lot: >= 100 USD · fee for each following lot: 25 USD (Total fee capped at $1,500.) · maximum plan review fee: <= 1500 USD · default residence design: 3 bedrooms (Unless otherwise indicated.)
“shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 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 [...]”
  15 CAR § 281-301. Publication of results ↗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
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Noncommercial access driveways adjoining state highways in Phillips County.
  “A permit shall be obtained from the Arkansas Department of Transportation for all noncommercial access driveways on state highways.”
  27 CAR § 94-401. General ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 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)
Onsite wastewater permit review fees applicable to property in Phillips County.
- Fees are 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 due to 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, including garages, carports, porches, and similar areas, are excluded when calculating applicable structure square footage.
individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures 1,500 square feet or less: 30 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures more than 1,500 and up to 2,000 square feet: 45 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures more than 2,000 and up to 3,000 square feet: 90 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures more than 3,000 and up to 4,000 square feet: 120 USD · individual onsite wastewater permit review fee for structures more than 4,000 square feet: 150 USD · alteration, repair, or extension of an individual sewage disposal system: 30 USD
“A fee shall be levied for the review of Individual Onsite Wastewater Permit Applications as follows:”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Published (with conditions) — Arkansas onsite wastewater permits applicable to property in Phillips County.
  “Structures 1500 sq. feet or less $30.00 [...] Structures more than 4000 sq. feet $150.00 [...] with a maximum fee of $1500.00.”
  Onsite Wastewater Fee Schedule ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Published (with conditions) — Commercial access driveways adjoining state highways in Phillips County.
  “Permits for initial construction or for modification of commercial driveways shall have a deposit or bond in the amount of a minimum of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per driveway. Deposits or bonds may be waived on permits for governmental entities. The deposit or bond will be refunded upon satisfactory completion of the work covered by the permit.”
  27 CAR Part 94, Access Driveway Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 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
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.”
22 CAR § 50-108. Camping rules, fee collection, registration, and reservations ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Mobile-home occupancy in Arkansas mobile-home parks where three or more paid spaces are provided for residential placement.
  “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 11, 2026

Inside cities and towns in Phillips County

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

Building code adoptedPartial
Building and construction regulation within Helena-West Helena.
- The city's code-enforcement department inspects property to ensure state construction, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical codes are met.
- The page identifies municipal-code Title 11 as Building & Construction but does not state an ordinance number or effective date for that title.
“Inspection of property to ensure state codes are met for construction, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical”
City Ordinances — City of Helena-West Helena, Arkansas ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
InspectionsLimited
Property inspections for construction, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical within the City of Helena-West Helena
- The official page describes the city department's inspection duty; it does not establish inspection requirements for unincorporated Phillips County or other municipalities.
“Inspection of property to ensure state codes are met for construction, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical”
Code Enforcement — City of Helena-West Helena, Arkansas ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
Land use and zoning within the City of Helena-West Helena, Phillips County, Arkansas.
- The city page identifies a City Zoning Map and City Zoning Code.
- The city code-enforcement department enforces city ordinances related to land use.
- This claim does not establish zoning rules for Phillips County unincorporated areas or other municipalities.
“City Zoning Map City Zoning Code To submit a zoning request, download the Zoning Application and send to Sandi Ramsey ([email protected]).”
Code Enforcement — City of Helena-West Helena, Arkansas ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Present (with conditions) — Land-use and zoning requests within the City of Helena-West Helena, Arkansas.
  “City Zoning Map City Zoning Code To submit a zoning request, download the Zoning Application and send to Sandi Ramsey ([email protected]).”
  Boards & Commissions — City of Helena-West Helena, Arkansas ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
- Present (with conditions) — Land use and zoning within the incorporated City of Helena-West Helena, Phillips County, Arkansas.
  “### PLANNING Title 13 ### ZONING title 14 ### SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS title 15”
  City Ordinances — City of Helena-West Helena, Arkansas ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026

Still unanswered

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

Zoning districts — Zoning districts in Phillips County, including unincorporated areas.
Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in Phillips County, including unincorporated areas.
Lot coverage — Lot coverage limits in Phillips County, including unincorporated areas.
Building height — Building height limits in Phillips County, including unincorporated areas.
Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in Phillips County outside specifically regulated state facilities or floodplain contexts.

2 more unanswered

Manufactured homes
Short-term rentals

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

Living off-grid in Phillips County, Arkansas

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

Phillips County scores 75/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 923 people within a 30-minute drive and low administrative friction for a quiet rural property.

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

Phillips County does not require a county building permit for a home in unincorporated areas, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Program (Phillips County Local Health Unit). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Phillips County is limited to specific cases: Statewide rule. Recreational-vehicle occupancy on any Arkansas parcel with three or more RV spaces occupied or intended for occupancy where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, including qualifying parcels in Phillips County. The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park when the three-space and fee-service threshold is met. The owner or operator is responsible for compliance with the applicable part. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Phillips County, Arkansas?

Land in Phillips County runs about $3,345 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Phillips County?

Phillips County gets about 51.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8.8% of years.

How remote is Phillips County?

A representative private-land location has about 923 people within a 30-minute drive and 563,184 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 Phillips County, Arkansas

At a glance

Who to call

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

Who handles Phillips County building permits and inspections?

Does Phillips County have zoning?

How do septic permits work in Phillips County?

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

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

What should you check before buying land in Phillips County?

Watch-outs

Sources

Phillips County in Arkansas

How Phillips County scores

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Parcel due diligence

Answers from the rulebook for Phillips County

Phillips County rules

Arkansas rules that apply here

Inside cities and towns in Phillips County

Still unanswered

Living off-grid in Phillips County, Arkansas

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

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

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

How much does land cost in Phillips County, Arkansas?

What is the water situation in Phillips County?

How remote is Phillips County?

How Phillips compares in Arkansas