Randolph County, AR: No Building Permit, No Zoning

Unincorporated Randolph County, Arkansas does not require a county building permit, but a State Fire Marshal permit may be required for work covered by the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code when no building official is appointed^1,2. Inside Pocahontas, the city issues building permits and applies city zoning; septic permits for addresses throughout Randolph County remain with the Arkansas Department of Health through the local health unit^3,4,5.

At a glance

Building permit: No county building permit in unincorporated areas; State Fire Marshal application where the state code requires one^1,2
Zoning: No countywide zoning documented; Pocahontas applies zoning inside city limits^1,4
Septic: State Department of Health permit, issued through the county Local Health Unit⁵
Septic soils: Only 10.1% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field⁶
Minimum lot size (drip dispersal septic): 0.5 acre or larger⁷
Owner-builder exemption: Own-residence work is exempt from contractor licensing, up to one residence per calendar year⁸
RV and wheeled tiny-home parks: 3 or more paid spaces trigger state park regulation; the rule does not answer one-unit private use^9,10
Property tax: 0.4% effective rate⁶

Who to call

Health department

Randolph County Local Health Unit (Arkansas Department of Health)

Onsite wastewater (septic) permit applications and inspections for Randolph County, as the Arkansas Department of Health's local unit

(870) 892-5239

407 Camp Road, Pocahontas, AR 72455

Also useful

Randolph County government

General Randolph County government contact; no separate county building, zoning or floodplain department is listed

870-892-5264

107 West Broadway, Pocahontas, AR 72455

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

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

Unincorporated Randolph County does not require a county building permit.

Unincorporated Randolph County does not require a county building permit¹. A project covered by the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code may still require an application to the State Fire Marshal when no building official is appointed². Statewide building-code minimums apply in rural and unincorporated areas even where no building permit or inspection is required⁸. Arkansas requires a city or county that issues building permits for new construction to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code, but that rule does not establish a Randolph County permit program¹¹. Inside Pocahontas, the city requires building permits and inspections to erect, alter or enlarge residential or commercial structures³. Pocahontas has adopted building standards for work inside the city¹².

Who issues building permits in Randolph County, and who handles septic?

Randolph County has no county building-permit office for unincorporated land; call Randolph County government at 870-892-5264, 107 West Broadway, Pocahontas, AR 72455 to confirm the parcel's jurisdiction¹. Where the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code requires a building permit and no building official is appointed, the application goes to the State Fire Marshal². Inside Pocahontas, the city runs its own building-permit and inspection process³. That city authority does not include septic permits: the Arkansas Department of Health administers onsite-wastewater approval throughout Randolph County through the local health unit¹³. The Randolph County Local Health Unit is at (870) 892-5239, 407 Camp Road, Pocahontas, AR 72455¹⁴.

Does Randolph County have zoning?

No countywide zoning ordinance is documented for Randolph County.

No countywide zoning ordinance is documented for Randolph County¹. We could not confirm unincorporated-county rules for minimum dwelling size, lot coverage or building height, so ask Randolph County government about the parcel before designing a project¹. Pocahontas zoning applies only within the city's corporate limits, where the zoning code and official map govern land use^4,15. Septic approval does not move to the city: the Arkansas Department of Health remains the onsite-wastewater authority throughout Randolph County¹³. Pocahontas also administers flood-hazard rules within the city¹⁵. Separate from zoning, statewide septic setbacks can constrain even an unincorporated parcel¹³.

How do septic permits work in Randolph County?

A Randolph County septic system needs approval from the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before construction, then inspection and a Permit for Operation before use.

A Randolph County septic system needs approval from the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before construction, then inspection and a Permit for Operation before use¹³. Only 10.1% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field, so evaluate the site before fixing a house location⁶. State rules generally require the wastewater system to sit at least 10 feet from a dwelling and property line, 100 feet from a domestic water source, stream, lake or sinkhole, with greater distances where site conditions demand¹³. Drip-dispersal designs used to establish subdivision lot size require at least 0.5 acre, while suitability remains site- and system-dependent⁷. Residential holding tanks are not allowed, so they are not a fallback for an unsuitable drain field¹³.

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

We could not confirm a Randolph County rule allowing or prohibiting one RV, tiny home or manufactured home on an individual unincorporated parcel; ask county government before relying on that use.

We could not confirm a Randolph County rule allowing or prohibiting one RV, tiny home or manufactured home on an individual unincorporated parcel; ask county government before relying on that use¹. A parcel with three or more paid RV spaces becomes a state-regulated recreational-vehicle park, requiring Department of Health plan approval, but that park rule does not answer private use of one RV⁹. The equivalent threshold also covers paid spaces for tiny houses on wheels¹⁰. Inside Pocahontas, a wheeled tiny house that meets the city's mobile-home definition must follow the conditional-use process and be placed in an approved mobile home park¹⁶. Septic permits remain with the Department of Health in both city and unincorporated locations¹³.

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

Confirm with Randolph County government whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside Pocahontas.

Confirm with Randolph County government whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside Pocahontas¹.
For unincorporated work covered by the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, ask whether a State Fire Marshal building permit is required².
Inside Pocahontas, check city zoning and obtain the city building permit before work starts^3,4.
Apply through the Randolph County Local Health Unit for the septic permit and lay out the system around state wastewater setbacks^13,14.
Do not use the septic system until it has been inspected and a Permit for Operation issued¹³.
For access onto a state highway, obtain an Arkansas Department of Transportation driveway permit before construction¹⁷.

What to check before you buy land in Randolph County

Check the septic envelope first: only 10.1% of Randolph County soils are free of severe conventional drain-field limits, and state setbacks protect property lines, buildings, water sources and surface water^6,13. Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside Pocahontas because city building permits and zoning stop at the city line, while state septic permitting continues countywide^3,4,13. An owner building one personal residence in a calendar year is exempt from residential contractor licensing, but statewide building standards still apply⁸. Nonresidential farm structures have narrow exemptions from state electrical licensing and Electrical Code Authority Act requirements, not a blanket exemption from septic, land-use or other rules¹⁸. Randolph County's effective property tax rate is 0.4%, with a $519 median annual bill⁶.

Watch-outs

Whether unincorporated Randolph County has any rule for minimum dwelling size, setbacks, lot coverage or building height isn't stated on the county's official pages; confirm directly with the county before you build¹.
We could not confirm a countywide answer for single-parcel RV, tiny-home or manufactured-home occupancy; state park regulation begins at three or more paid spaces^9,10.
Rules change at the Pocahontas city line: the city issues building permits and applies zoning, while septic permits remain with the Arkansas Department of Health^3,4,13.

Sources

18 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 10, 2026

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

Off-grid gear

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 5 of the neighbors with published rules, Randolph County has no countywide zoning.

Rule	Randolph County	Lawrence County	Greene County	Sharp County	Clay County	Craighead County	Fulton County
Building permit	Not required	Not required	Limited	Not required	Not required	Not required	Limited
County zoning	No	No	No	No	No	No	Not published
Septic permits	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health	ADH	AR Dept. of Health	AR Dept. of Health

Cities and towns in Randolph County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet covered: Town of Biggers · Town of Maynard · Town of O'Kean · Town of Ravenden Springs · Reyno

Answers from the rulebook for Randolph County

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

Randolph County rules

County-wide zoningAbsent
No countywide zoning ordinance or planning/zoning office is documented for Randolph County; Arkansas counties generally do not zone unincorporated rural land absent adoption.
Randolph County (Arkansas.gov county portal) ↗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.”
2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — Construction, alteration, repair, relocation, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work subject to the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code in Randolph County.
  “shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit, where required. If there is no building official appointed”
  Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
- 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.”
  Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
Owner acting as the residential building contractor for the owner's residence, or owner acting as the owner's own home improvement contractor on the owner's own property, in Randolph County and elsewhere in Arkansas.
- The exemption is from residential builder and home improvement licensing requirements.
- An owner constructing the owner's residence is exempt unless the owner builds more than one residence during any calendar year.
- The owner of a single-family residence may act as the owner's own home improvement contractor on the owner's own property.
- The source also lists exemptions for subcontractors working for a properly licensed contractor and contractors licensed by another Arkansas licensing agency, board, or commission when performing work within the scope of that license.
- Arkansas building codes remain mandatory statewide, including in rural and unincorporated areas, even where no permit or inspections are required.
“The following are exemptions to the residential builder and home improvement licensing requirements: (1) owners are exempt from licensure when acting as the contractor in the construction of his or her residence unless he or she builds more than one residence during any calendar year (2) owners acting as his or her own home improvement contractor on his or her own property”
Home Improvement Specialty New Application ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 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
Arkansas Energy Code adoption by Arkansas cities and counties that issue building permits for new building construction, including any applicable authority in Randolph County.
- Only cities or counties that issue building permits for new building construction are identified as applicable cities or counties.
- Applicable cities or counties were required to adopt the Arkansas Energy Code before 12/31/2014.
- Upon adoption, the authority must submit a copy of the adoption ordinance to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission - Energy Office.
- If the applicable city or county had not adopted by 12/31/2014, the mayor or county judge was required to submit a letter within 60 days explaining noncompliance.
- The source establishes the Energy Code requirement and does not by itself establish adoption of every Arkansas building-code volume by Randolph County.
adoption deadline: 2014-12-31 · effective date: 2015-01-01
“111.1 Adoption. Arkansas Code § 15-10-205(b)(3)(B) requires that any city or county in Arkansas which issues building permits for new building construction (referred to herein as “applicable cities or counties”) shall adopt the Arkansas Energy Code as amended.”
2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Adopted (with conditions) — Building-code requirements applicable in Randolph County, including rural and unincorporated areas.
  “Arkansas Building Codes are mandatory statewide minimums. They apply statewide even in areas when no permit or inspections are required. The Arkansas Building Code is adopted by the State Fire Marshal’s office. It is a part of the Fire Prevention Code. The Code applies Statewide, even in rural and unincorporated areas. Arkansas is currently under the 2012 Edition of the Code.”
  Home Improvement Application and Test Information ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
- Adopted (with conditions) — New structures and applicable alterations, additions, changes in use, and changes in structures throughout Arkansas, under the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, including Volume II for building-code requirements and Volume III for residential-code requirements.
  “Each district, county, municipality, or other political subdivision of this state shall only adopt and enforce the provisions of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 Edition. [...] The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the International Building Code Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the International Building Code, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, Volume II, shall be made in accordance therewith.”
  2021 Arkansas Fire Prevention Code ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- Partial — State projects in Arkansas.
  “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office.”
  22 CAR § 111-407. Building codes adopted ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
- Adopted (with conditions) — State projects in Arkansas subject to the Building Authority Division design-review rules.
  “The adopted building code for state projects is the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 12 CAR pt. 15, as adopted by the Division of Arkansas State Police, State Fire Marshal’s office. Arkansas laws and this subchapter shall have precedence over the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code where they exceed the requirements of the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. All project designs shall comply with all Arkansas laws and the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code. Other codes, rules, or standards may be applicable to a specific project. It is the department’s and design professional’s responsibility to determine all applicable codes for each specific project.”
  22 CAR § 111-407. Building codes adopted ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
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.”
2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Construction subject to Arkansas Building Code compliance and any applicable inspection regime.
  “areas when no permit or inspections are required.”
  Home Improvement Contractor License Application ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Certificate of occupancyLimited
Open-enrollment public charter schools commencing student operations in a new or renovated facility anywhere in Arkansas.
- Before commencing operations with students, the school must obtain one of three alternative approvals for the new construction or renovation.
- The alternatives are: a certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official and approved by the state fire marshal; a certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or a certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.
- A certificate of occupancy is therefore not independently mandatory when one of the two listed alternative approvals is obtained.
“An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
6 CAR § 31-425. Charter school facilities ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Limited — State of Arkansas construction projects administered by a state owner or agency.
  “Certificates of Occupancy are not issued by any one State Agency for State projects. The responsibility therefore rests with the Owner/Agency of the project.”
  DBA Project Closeout Guide ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
- Limited — Buildings subject to the Arkansas Energy Code when located in a county or municipality that has adopted the Code and conducts final inspections as part of normal operations.
  “An open-enrollment public charter school shall not commence operations with students in any new or renovated facility unless the school has obtained for the new construction or renovation: (1) A certificate of occupancy issued by a local code official, approved by the state fire marshal; (2) A certificate of occupancy or other approval of the state fire marshal; or (3) A certificate of substantial completion issued by a licensed architect.”
  2014 Arkansas Energy Code for New Building Construction Supplements and Amendments ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Lots in Arkansas subdivisions using onsite wastewater systems, including applicable lots in Randolph County.
- Primary and secondary absorption areas must be suitable and sized according to natural soil data.
- For lots less than three acres proposed for subdivision development, specified soil-depth thresholds apply.
- Drip dispersal may be used for determining minimum lot size only when the rule's criteria are met.
- Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be five-tenths (0.5) of an acre or larger.
- The rule does not establish one universal minimum lot size for every site; suitability is site- and system-dependent.
minimum lot size for drip dispersal design: >= 0.5 acre (Only when the criteria in 14 CAR § 21-405(a)(6)(A) are met) · soil depth to brief seasonal water table for lots under 3 acres: >= 13 inches · soil depth to adjusted moderate seasonal water table for lots under 3 acres: >= 18 inches · soil depth to adjusted long seasonal water table for lots under 3 acres: >= 24 inches
“Lots using drip dispersal design for minimum lot size shall be five-tenths (0.5) of an acre or larger.”
14 CAR § 21-405. Subdivisions ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
SetbacksSpecified
Onsite wastewater facilities, including primary and secondary systems, in Randolph County under Arkansas statewide onsite wastewater rules.
- The minimum horizontal distances apply where ideal conditions indicate they are sufficient; greater distances are required where local conditions demand.
- Waivers, except where public water supplies are involved, must be submitted to and approved by the Department.
- Waivers affecting public water supplies must be submitted to and approved by Engineering.
- The rule also requires primary and secondary onsite wastewater systems to conform to Section 6.2 setback requirements.
distance from high-water mark of body of water near public water-supply intake: >= 300 feet (Applies if within one quarter mile of a public water supply intake on that body of water.) · distance from spring used as public water supply: >= 300 feet · distance from source of domestic water supply: >= 100 feet · distance from high-water mark of stream or lake: >= 100 feet · distance from pond on same property: >= 50 feet (If in the pond watershed.) · distance from pond on adjacent property: >= 100 feet (If in the pond watershed; in no case may the minimum separation from any pond be less than 50 feet.) · distance from dwelling or building: >= 10 feet · distance from property lines: >= 10 feet · distance from water service line: >= 10 feet (See Arkansas Plumbing Code.) · distance from sinkhole: >= 100 feet
“Minimum [...] Distances. [...] at least 300 feet [...] at least 100 feet [...] at least 50 feet [...] at least 10 feet [...] at least 100 feet from any sinkhole.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)
State delegation to county planning boards for zoning ordinances covering all or part of a county's unincorporated area; this is not a statewide lot-coverage percentage.
- A county planning board may prepare a zoning ordinance only for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county.
- The ordinance must include both a map and a text.
- Lot coverage is a subject the zoning ordinance may regulate; the enactment does not require a county to adopt such a rule.
- The ordinance must designate districts or zones, and regulations within each district or zone must be uniform throughout that district or zone.
“The county planning board shall have authority to prepare, or to cause to be prepared, a zoning ordinance for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county, which ordinance shall include both a map and a text. [...] The zoning ordinance may regulate: [...] (C) lot Lot coverage;”
arkleg.state.ar.us ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
Living in an RVLimited
Occupancy of recreational vehicles in Arkansas recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
- The rule applies when three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing.
- The parcel is considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and must comply with 20 CAR Part 138.
- The owner or operator is responsible for compliance.
- Waivers or exceptions are considered case by case and approval is at the Department of Health's discretion.
- Construction, alteration, repair, or extension of a mobile-home or recreational-vehicle park requires prior submission and department approval.
- Detailed plans must include the park layout, sewage system, water source and distribution system, buildings, parking areas, dump stations, and topographical features.
minimum spaces triggering park regulation: >= 3 spaces (Placement or maintenance services, or both, must be provided for a fee.)
“Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
20 CAR § 138-102. Compliance ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Recreational-vehicle occupancy in an Arkansas recreational-vehicle park, including a qualifying park in Randolph County.
  “Any parcel of land in which three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles or mobile homes, where placement and/or maintenance services are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park and shall be in compliance with these Regulations.”
  Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Parks ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 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, including units treated as mobile homes or recreational vehicles under 20 CAR pt. 138, on any parcel in Randolph County or elsewhere in Arkansas where three or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy and placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee.
  “(a) Any parcel of land in which three (3) or more spaces are occupied or intended for occupancy by recreational vehicles, tiny houses on wheels, or mobile homes, where placement or maintenance services, or both, are provided for a fee, whether new or existing, shall be: (1) Considered a mobile home or recreational vehicle park; and (2) In compliance with this part.”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
- Limited — Occupancy of tiny houses on wheels in Arkansas mobile-home or recreational-vehicle parks regulated by the Arkansas Department of Health under 20 CAR Part 138.
  ““Tiny house on wheels” means a structure intended as a habitable dwelling for one (1) or more individuals which, for the purposes of this part, shall be considered a: (A) Mobile home, if plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code, 17 CAR pt. 65; or (B) Recreational vehicle, if not plumbed and inspected in accordance with the 2018 Arkansas Plumbing Code;”
  20 CAR § 138-101. Definitions ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Who permits septicState (with conditions)
Individual sewage disposal (septic) systems and alternate/experimental systems in Arkansas, administered by the Arkansas Department of Health (Division of Environmental Health Protection) and its authorized agents (the environmental health specialist assigned to each county)
- The chapter (and so the Department's permit requirement) does not apply to an individual or alternate/experimental system on a tract of ten (10) acres or larger whose field line or sewage disposal line is no closer than 200 feet to the property line (§ 14-236-104(c)).
- Systems in existence on July 1, 1977, and certain systems installed after that date in subdivisions platted before July 1, 1977, are not required to meet more stringent specifications than the standards then applicable (§ 14-236-104(a)).
- Permit requirement (§ 14-236-112) covers systems installed after July 1, 1977; emergency repairs may proceed if a permit is obtained within ten working days.
- A municipality's law or regulation setting standards that give greater protection to public health or safety prevails within that municipality (§ 14-236-105).
- Surface-discharging systems may also need ADEQ authorization; not verified from an official page in this job.
- The statute text is from the Department of Health's 2014 compilation of the Act; check the current Arkansas Code for later amendments.
acreage exemption threshold: >= 10 acres (field line or sewage disposal line no closer than 200 feet to the property line) · minimum field line distance to property line for exemption: >= 200 feet
“the division of environmental health protection of the department of health or its authorized agents shall have general supervision and authority over the location, design, construction, installation, and operation of individual sewage disposal systems”
Arkansas Sewage Disposal Systems Act, A.C.A. § 14-236-101 et seq. (Arkansas Department of Health compilation, 2014 language update) ↗Re-checked Nov 6, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- State — Onsite wastewater systems in Randolph County, including construction, alteration, repair, extension, operation, inspection, and permitting.
  “For those cities or counties with Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the Department. In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the Department.”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Construction, alteration, repair, extension, or operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas.
- A completed permit application and detailed plans must be approved before construction of a building or residence.
- Construction, installation, or modification requires permits for construction and operation before work begins.
- A permit may be refused where public sewer is reasonably available or economically feasible, subject to the emergency-repair exception.
- Emergency repairs may proceed without prior permit only if a permit is obtained within 10 working days.
- Applications are made to the Department or its Authorized Agent; where no local Authorized Agent is designated, applications are made to the Department.
- Construction must begin within one year after issuance or the permit must be revalidated.
- The rule is effective September 5, 2024.
public sewer connection distance: <= 300 feet (when available and connection can be made without crossing another person's property) · emergency repair permit deadline: 10 working days (after repairs are made) · permit review fee for structures 1,500 square feet or less: 30 USD · permit review fee for structures over 1,500 and up to 2,000 square feet: 45 USD · permit review fee for structures over 2,000 and up to 3,000 square feet: 90 USD · permit review fee for structures over 3,000 and up to 4,000 square feet: 120 USD · permit review fee for structures over 4,000 square feet: 150 USD · alteration, repair, or extension permit review fee: 30 USD
“A completed Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or residence. [...] Permit requirement. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite wastewater system, owned by any other person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency until the owner first obtains a valid Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Septic inspectionRequired
Operation of onsite wastewater systems statewide in Arkansas after installation or construction.
- The system must be inspected and approved by the Arkansas Department of Health or its Authorized Agent before operation.
- The owner must obtain a Permit for Operation before the system is used.
- The installer must notify the Authorized Agent or Designated Representative when the installation is ready for inspection.
- The owner or occupant must provide free access at reasonable times for inspection.
- The installer must submit required installation documentation to the local health unit within five days.
- The inspection may be performed by the Authorized Agent or, with the Authorized Agent's approval, by the Designated Representative.
installer documentation deadline: 5 days (after installation pursuant to the approved permit)
“It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent. [...] Within five (5) days, the installer shall submit the required documentation to the local health unit that the system has been installed pursuant to the approved permit. [...] After approval of the inspection, the Authorized Agent will approve and issue a Permit for Operation. The system shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued.”
Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Operation and installation of onsite wastewater systems in Randolph County.
  “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its Authorized Agent.”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Off-grid 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 — Onsite wastewater and holding-tank sanitation serving residences or other property in Randolph County.
  “Holding tanks shall be approved only for domestic waste from commercial establishments, excluding grocery stores and / or food service establishments. 9.9.3 Holding tanks shall not be approved for residencies, full or part time.”
  Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems (2024) ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Well permitLimited
Wells serving public and semi-public water systems in Arkansas.
- Written approval from the Arkansas Department of Health is required before construction begins.
- If the well's public or semi-public status is uncertain, the well contractor must obtain a written determination from the Department of Health before construction.
- This claim does not establish a general construction-permit requirement for private domestic wells.
“Wells for public and semi-public water systems shall be located, designed, and constructed in accordance with the respective rules of the Department of Health and shall have written approval from the department prior to the start of construction. If uncertain that a well is public or semi-public, the well contractor shall obtain a written determination from the department prior to construction.”
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.”
codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Agricultural exemptionConditional
State and local sales-tax exemption for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment in Arkansas.
- The utility must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose.
- Multiple-use meters serving eligible and noneligible structures, facilities, or equipment do not qualify.
- The farmer must obtain a certificate from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration before the exemption is allowed and provide it to the utility supplier.
- Qualifying agricultural structures include commercial poultry or livestock facilities, cattle or dairy facilities, and greenhouses used for commercial production.
- Qualifying aquaculture or horticulture equipment includes specified cooling, collection, irrigation, pond-pumping, pond-aeration, and holding or sorting-tank equipment used in commercial operations.
exemption start date: 2014-01-01 · eligible utilities: electricity, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (Must be separately metered and used only for the exempt purpose) · DFA certificate: true (Required before the exemption is allowed) · water exemption for commercial poultry farming start date: 2021-10-01 (Water must be used exclusively for poultry farming and separately metered)
“Act 1441 of 2013 provides an exemption from state and local sales taxes for electricity, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas used by qualifying agricultural structures and qualifying aquaculture and horticulture equipment beginning January 1, 2014. The eligible utility must be separately metered and used only for the purpose of the exemption.”
Farm Utility Exemption Notice and Agricultural, Aquaculture and Horticulture Utility Exemption Application ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Available — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure under Arkansas electrical licensing requirements.
  “licensing requirements [...] shall not apply [...] to [...] nonresidential farm building or structure”
  17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
- Available — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure under the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act.
  “Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act [...] shall not apply [...] to [...] nonresidential farm building or structure”
  17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
- Conditional — Construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of a nonresidential farm building or structure in Arkansas, as an exemption from the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act requirements.
  “(b) The requirements of the Arkansas Electrical Code Authority Act, Arkansas Code § 20-31-101 et seq., shall not apply to the following: [...] (2) Any construction, installation, maintenance, repair, or renovation of any nonresidential farm building or structure;”
  17 CAR § 210-602. Construction and exemptions ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision plans in Arkansas that propose standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of the lots or tracts, including applicable subdivisions in Randolph County.
- All subdivision plans proposing standard onsite wastewater systems for all or part of the lots or tracts must be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval.
- Lots unsuitable for standard onsite systems must be incorporated into surrounding lots or parcels.
- Submission is made to the local health unit and must include soil-pit, percolation-test, test-location, topography, and other required information.
- The plan review fee is at least $100 for one lot, $25 for each following lot, and capped at $1,500.
- Construction of a building on a subdivision lot cannot begin until final Department of Health approval of onsite wastewater utilization.
minimum subdivision plan review fee: 100 USD (For one lot) · additional subdivision plan review fee: per 25 USD per lot (For each following lot) · maximum subdivision plan review fee: 1500 USD
“All subdivision plans, which are proposed to utilize standard onsite wastewater systems as a method of wastewater treatment for all or part of the lots or tracts in said subdivision, shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval of the overall plan for the utilization of onsite wastewater systems.”
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 [...]”
  codeofarrules.arkansas.gov ↗Re-checked Sep 8, 2026
Driveway accessRequired
Construction, reconstruction, modification, or relocation of access driveways on Arkansas State Highway right-of-way, including residential, commercial, and temporary access driveways.
- No work may begin on State Highway right-of-way until the engineer issues the permit.
- Applications are made to the District Engineer and include a work description, location, applicant contact information, and required drawings or deposit/bond.
- An Access Management Agreement may require approval or a permit from the relevant jurisdiction; failure to provide it may be grounds for denial.
- Commercial driveway permits generally require a minimum $1,000 deposit or bond per driveway, with governmental-entity waiver possible.
- Temporary driveway access is limited to 120 days initially, extendable at 60-day intervals up to 240 days.
commercial driveway deposit or bond: >= 1000 USD per driveway minimum (May be waived for governmental entities.) · temporary driveway initial duration: <= 120 days maximum (May be extended at 60-day intervals up to 240 total days.) · frontage limit: 50 feet or less (Limited to one driveway.) · rural setback inside adjoining property frontage: >= 10 feet minimum (Urban minimum is 5 feet; Section 6.9 exceptions may apply.)
“A permit shall be obtained from the Department for all access driveways on State Highways.”
Regulations: Rules for Access Driveways to State Highways ↗Re-checked Sep 9, 2026
Building in a floodplainRequired
Development by an Arkansas state department on property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area.
- The rule applies to a state department proposing the development, not generally to all private or local development statewide.
- The department must submit an application on a form approved by the Design Review Section.
- The application must include the application number, date, department or property owner, site address or legal description, development type, brief description, base flood elevation, lowest-floor elevation, attachment acknowledgment, and applicant contact/signature information.
- Supporting attachments should include the FEMA map, copies of other regulatory permits such as Clean Water Act sections 401 and 404 permits, elevation certificates, a certification of no increase in base flood elevation or no-rise certificate, a flood-proofing certificate, certifications for water supply, sanitary sewer, and on-site waste disposal systems, and notification of watercourse alteration or relocation.
- The Design Review Section reviews and approves or disapproves the application; if approved, the floodplain administrator issues a development permit for the design phase.
- The permit must be posted during construction; the site is reviewed before final acceptance; and noncompliant work requires correction or may be designated a nonconforming use site.
- For riverine watercourse alteration or relocation, the department must notify the division, adjacent communities, and the state NFIP Coordinator at the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission before the alteration or relocation, submit copies to the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, maintain flood-carrying capacity, and provide an engineering study of before-and-after conditions prepared by a registered professional engineer.
- For structures and equipment pads under the state rule, elevation requirements vary by FEMA-map and base-flood-elevation availability: two feet above adjacent grade where no FEMA map exists; two feet above the Building Authority Division base flood elevation where no nearby FEMA base flood elevation data exists; and one foot above the accepted or mapped base flood elevation in the circumstances specified by 22 CAR § 111-708.
minimum elevation where no FEMA map exists and site is flood-prone: 2 feet above adjacent grade · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists but no base flood elevation data is provided within 500 feet: 2 feet above the Building Authority Division-established base flood elevation · minimum elevation where FEMA map exists, no site base flood elevation is provided, and a base flood elevation is available within 500 feet or from another authoritative source: 1 foot above the base flood elevation accepted by the division · minimum elevation where FEMA map provides a base flood elevation at the site: 1 foot above the elevation shown on the map in the flood insurance study, if available, or as interpolated between map elevations
“When a department proposes to develop property within the boundaries of the hundred-year floodplain or a Building Authority Division designated flood hazard area, the department shall submit an application for a development permit on a form approved by the Design Review Section.”
22 CAR § 111-705. Permits ↗Re-checked Sep 26, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Basic design-service fees for Arkansas state department projects governed by the Building Authority Division.
- The schedule is based on total final construction cost, including adjustments by change order or negotiations.
- For projects less than $50,000 or more than $50,000,000, fees may be negotiated subject to Building Authority Division approval.
- Specified modifiers apply, including deductions for simple projects and additions for complex projects or projects requiring intensified observation.
basic fee for construction cost $50,001 to $75,000: 9.25 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $75,001 to $100,000: 9 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $100,001 to $200,000: 8.75 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $1,000,001 to $20,000,000: 6.5 percent of total final construction cost · basic fee for construction cost $42,500,001 to $50,000,000: 4 percent of total final construction cost · fee modifier for simple projects: 1 percentage points minimum deduction · fee modifier for complex projects: 1.5 percentage points maximum addition
“$50,001 to $75,000 | 9.25%”
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
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 [...]”
  20 CAR § 138-105. Sewage disposal ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
- Limited — Manufactured-home occupancy in Arkansas mobile home parks, as to the park's sewage-disposal infrastructure.
  “Each mobile home space shall be provided with at least a four-inch (4”) diameter sewer riser pipe.”
  20 CAR § 138-105. Sewage disposal ↗Re-checked Nov 4, 2026
county zoning authorityGeneral
Arkansas counties may establish zoning ordinances for all or part of their unincorporated areas through a county planning board.
- The county planning board may prepare or cause preparation of the ordinance.
- The ordinance must include both a map and text.
- Permitted subjects include building location, height, bulk, stories, size, open space, lot coverage, population density and distribution, and uses of land, buildings, and structures.
- The ordinance may require off-street parking and loading.
- The ordinance may provide for compatible-use districts, large-scale unified development, elimination of nonconforming uses, and other matters necessary to county health, safety, and general welfare.
- The ordinance must designate districts or zones for all or part of the unincorporated area.
- Regulations must be uniform throughout each district or zone.
- The ordinance must allow and regulate home-based work as provided in Arkansas Code § 14-1-104.
“The county planning board shall have authority to prepare, or to cause to be prepared, a zoning ordinance for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county, which ordinance shall include both a map and a text.”
House Bill 2452 — County planning boards and zoning boards of adjustment ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- General — Arkansas county planning boards adopting zoning ordinances for all or part of a county's unincorporated area.
  “The county planning board shall have authority to prepare, or to cause to be prepared, a zoning ordinance for all or part of the unincorporated area of the county, which ordinance shall include both a map and a text.”
  arkleg.state.ar.us ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026

Inside cities and towns in Randolph County

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

Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
Construction, alteration, enlargement, and repair of buildings or structures within the City of Pocahontas.
- The city page states that building permits and inspections are required before covered work proceeds.
- Construction must meet the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code or other applicable state and city building codes.
- Commercial or industrial permits require a Certificate of Occupancy application before final inspections.
- Work completed before permit issuance results in double permit fees, except emergency damaged meters or services from accidents or storms, for which the penalty is waived.
“There is hereby adopted by the City Council of the city of Pocahontas, Arkansas, [...] that certain building code”
Pocahontas Code Enforcement ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Adopted (with conditions) — Dwellings and premises within the incorporated limits of the City of Pocahontas, including the city-adopted Southern Standard Housing Code and enforcement by a Building Official.
  “There is hereby adopted by the City Council of the city of Pocahontas, Arkansas, that certain health and housing standards known as the 1965 Edition of the Southern Standard Housing Code [...] the provisions thereof shall be controlling on all dwellings and premises within the city limits of Pocahontas, Arkansas.”
  City of Pocahontas Municipal Code, Title 11 Buildings and Construction ↗Re-checked Oct 5, 2026
Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
Land within the corporate limits of the City of Pocahontas, Randolph County, Arkansas.
- The City zoning code applies only within Pocahontas corporate limits.
- The City code establishes zoning districts and an official zoning map maintained by the City Clerk at City Hall.
“These regulations apply within the corporate limits of the City of Pocahontas.”
City of Pocahontas Zoning Code ↗Re-checked Nov 13, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Present (with conditions) — Zoning within the corporate limits of the City of Pocahontas, Randolph County, Arkansas.
  “The city of Pocahontas, Arkansas, hereby approves and adopts by reference Zoning Ordinance No. 387 and subsequent amendment, after public hearing duly held thereon, following notice of such hearing as required by law, said ordinance consisting of the text and zoning district map, of which ordinance not less than three (3) copies have been and are now filed in the office of the Recorder/Treasurer and from the date on which the ordinance shall take effect the provisions thereof shall be controlling within the limits of said city.”
  City of Pocahontas Code of Ordinances, Title 14: Zoning ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
- Present (with conditions) — The annexed territory described in Pocahontas Ordinance No. 2020-14, within the City of Pocahontas, Randolph County, Arkansas.
  “SECTION 3: That the zoning classification for the above described territory is hereby designated as R-1 Low Density Residential.”
  Pocahontas Ordinance No. 2020-14 ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
- Present (with conditions) — Property within the corporate limits of the City of Pocahontas, Randolph County, Arkansas.
  “These regulations apply within the corporate limits of the City of Pocahontas.”
  Pocahontas Code Enforcement ↗Re-checked Oct 4, 2026
- Present (with conditions) — Land within the corporate limits of the City of Pocahontas, Randolph County, Arkansas.
  “These regulations apply within the corporate limits of the City of Pocahontas. [...] The Official Zoning Map is kept and maintained by the City Clerk at City Hall. It is available for review and access by the public during the normal business hours of City Hall.”
  City of Pocahontas Zoning Code ↗Re-checked Oct 7, 2026
Tiny homesLimited
A tiny house that falls within Pocahontas's ordinance definition of a mobile home, including a wheeled trailer, camper, camp car, or house car, within the City of Pocahontas.
- The ordinance does not expressly use the term tiny house; this claim applies only if the unit fits the ordinance's mobile-home definition.
- Mobile homes are subject to the city's conditional-use procedure and must be approved or disapproved by the Pocahontas Planning Commission and forwarded to the City Council for approval or disapproval.
- The location must be appropriate, must not conflict with the city's comprehensive plan, must not adversely affect public health, safety, morals, or general welfare, must provide adequate off-street parking, and must provide safeguards for surrounding property, persons, and neighborhood values.
- The mobile home must be located in an approved mobile home park; the ordinance states: All mobile homes shall be required to be located in the approved mobile home park.
- A mobile home park site must contain at least one acre.
- Each mobile home must be connected to a sanitary sewer and water supply system approved by the Arkansas Health Department.
- The ordinance also imposes mobile-home-park standards including site-plan submission, setbacks, maximum density of ten spaces per gross acre, minimum space area of 3,000 square feet, ten-foot separation from other mobile homes or trailers and accessory structures on another space, parking, refuse facilities, inspections, and correction of violations.
- City building permits and inspections are required to erect, alter, or enlarge a structure, and work may not begin until the permit has been paid for and approved.
mobile home park minimum site area: >= 1 acre · maximum mobile home or trailer spaces: per 10 spaces per gross acre · minimum mobile home space area: >= 3000 square feet · minimum separation from another mobile home, trailer, or accessory structure on another space: >= 10 feet
“Mobile Home Any vehicle, covered or uncovered, used for living, sleeping, business, or storage purposes, having no foundation other than wheels, blocks, skids, jacks, horses, or skirtings and which is, has been , or reasonably may be equipped with wheels or other devices for transporting the vehicle from place to place, whether by motive power or other means. The term “mobile home” shall include trailer, camper, camp car, and house car. [...] All mobile homes shall be required to be located in the approved mobile home park.”
City of Pocahontas Code of Ordinances, Title 14: Zoning ↗Re-checked Oct 1, 2026
Building in a floodplainLimited
Construction in flood hazard areas within the City of Pocahontas.
- No new building of any type is permitted in the regulatory floodway, as determined by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, if it may cause damaging increases in flood heights or other nuisances.
- Construction in the floodplain is allowed only if it meets the City's Flood Damage Prevention Code.
“No new buildings of any type shall be permitted”
City of Pocahontas Zoning Code ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Permit feesVariable (with conditions)
Building permits within the City of Pocahontas, Randolph County, Arkansas.
- The applicant is notified of the fee only after approval.
- Permits may be picked up at City Hall and paid in cash or check.
- Work completed before permit issuance results in double permit fees.
- The double-fee penalty is waived in emergency cases involving damaged meters or services from accidents, storms, or similar emergencies.
“The fee shall be based upon the cost of the building or structure”
Code Enforcement ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Residential and commercial construction, alteration, enlargement, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work within the City of Pocahontas.
- Building permits and inspections are required for the listed work.
- Contractors must provide proof of licensing; homeowners may perform work on a primary residence without a license, but permits and inspections remain required.
- Applications require a plot plan in two copies showing building size and location, setbacks, off-street parking, and other requested information.
- Work may not begin until the permit is paid for and approved.
- Inspections must occur before walls, ceilings, or floors are covered; final inspection is required before occupancy.
- Commercial or industrial permits require a Certificate of Occupancy application before final inspections, and public occupancy is prohibited until approval.
inspection timing: following business day
“Building permits and inspections are required to erect, alter, or enlarge any structure on your residential or commercial property.”
Code Enforcement ↗Re-checked Sep 11, 2026

Still unanswered

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

Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling-size requirements in Randolph County, Arkansas, including unincorporated areas.
Building height — Building height requirements in Randolph County, including unincorporated areas.
Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land outside a regulated recreational-vehicle park in Randolph County.
Manufactured homes — Manufactured-home occupancy or placement on an individual private parcel in Randolph County.
Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling units on private land in Randolph County, including unincorporated areas.

1 more unanswered

Short-term rentals

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

Living off-grid in Randolph County, Arkansas

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

Randolph County scores 77/100 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 Randolph County, Arkansas?

Land in Randolph County runs about $4,053 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Randolph County?

Randolph County gets about 50" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 8% of years.

How remote is Randolph County?

A typical private-land location has about 18,196 people within 15 miles and 2,422,535 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

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