Barndominiums are widely accepted across most counties.
Arkansas has adopted building codes but enforcement varies by jurisdiction. Many rural counties have minimal or no building code enforcement. Cities like Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Fort Smith enforce codes rigorously.
Primary Code
IBC / IRC
Code Version
2012 IBC / 2012 IRC (with amendments)
Adoption Level
Statewide + Local Amendments
Statewide Enforcement
No
Rural counties may have very streamlined processes. Some unincorporated areas have no permitting office.
Residential
Required
Commercial
Required
Agricultural
Not Required
Size threshold: structures under 200 sq ft may be exempt.
Agricultural buildings on farm property are generally exempt from building permits in most Arkansas counties.
Small structures under 200 sq ft typically exempt from building permits.
Eastern Arkansas near the New Madrid seismic zone has higher seismic requirements (SDC D). Tornado risk is moderate across the state.
Wind Load
95–115 mph
moderate zone
Snow Load
5–15 psf
Seismic
A–D
Category
Flood
FEMA Regulated
Energy Code
IECC
Version
2009 IECC
Energy code enforcement is minimal in most rural areas.
License Type
Contractors Licensing Board license
Project Threshold
$20,000
Arkansas requires contractor licensing for projects over $20,000. License obtained through the Contractors Licensing Board.
Front
25–30 ft
Side
5–15 ft
Rear
10–25 ft
Setbacks vary by jurisdiction. Rural areas tend to have more generous setback allowances.
Clay soils common in some areas require engineered foundations. Seismic zone in eastern AR affects foundation design.
Steel shops are very common and widely accepted across the state.
Agricultural buildings generally exempt from permits. Steel barns very popular for livestock and equipment.
Widely accepted, especially in rural areas. Arkansas is one of the more barndo-friendly states.
Minimal permitting in rural areas. Cities require standard permits.
Full code compliance required in incorporated cities.
HOAs are relatively uncommon outside of Little Rock and northwest Arkansas suburbs. Most rural land is unrestricted.
Flood zones exist along the Arkansas River, White River, and Mississippi River corridors. FEMA regulations apply.
Key counties with specific permit information for Arkansas.
Full code enforcement. Standard plan review process.
Typical fees: $300 – $2,000
Growing area with active code enforcement.
Typical fees: $250 – $2,500
Fastest-growing county. Full code enforcement.
Typical fees: $300 – $2,500
Moderate enforcement. Popular retirement area.
Typical fees: $200 – $1,500
Ag Exemption AvailableMinimal code enforcement in unincorporated areas.
Typical fees: $100 – $500
Ag Exemption AvailableVerify the information above directly from these official sources. Regulations change — always confirm with your local building department before starting construction.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local building department, planning office, or a licensed professional before starting construction. Homestead Steel Structures & Design is not a legal authority on building codes or zoning regulations. Last updated February 2026.
