Building Permits in Arkansas

We cover 33 cities in Arkansas. Select a city below to see local permit requirements.

33 Cities Covered

3,270 Permit Rules

IRC Building Code Base

Building Codes in Arkansas

Building permit requirements in Arkansas are enforced at the local level, each city and county building department sets its own rules, fees, and timelines. Most cities in Arkansas follow the 2021 IRC, though 1 city is still on the Not formally adopted (Arkansas has no statewide residential building code; Garland County has not adopted IRC for unincorporated areas) edition.

We cover 33 cities in Arkansas with 3,270 specific permit rules. That's real, locally researched data, not generic advice. Each city page shows exactly what triggers a permit, what's exempt, estimated fees, and how to apply.

The bottom line: don't assume your city follows the same rules as the one next door. A fence that's exempt in one town might need a full permit two miles away. Always check your specific city.

Common Permit Exemptions in Arkansas

These are the most common projects that don't require a permit across cities in Arkansas. Keep in mind, "exempt from a permit" doesn't mean "exempt from code." You still have to build to code even without a permit.

Fence: Exempt in 63 of our 33 covered cities

Windows and Doors: Exempt in 57 of our 33 covered cities

Tree Removal: Exempt in 33 of our 33 covered cities

Siding: Exempt in 33 of our 33 covered cities

Shed: Exempt in 33 of our 33 covered cities

Exemptions vary by city. Always verify with your local building department before starting work.