Key Takeaways

Most concrete projects in Arkansas require permits if they connect to public roads, exceed $2,000 in project cost, or involve structural work like foundations
Driveways connecting to state highways always need an access driveway permit from ARDOT (Arkansas Department of Transportation) before construction begins^[1]
Fayetteville and other Arkansas cities typically require building permits for concrete work including driveways, patios, and walkways larger than basic repairs^[2]
Contractors must be licensed by the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board for any project over $2,000 (residential) or $50,000 (commercial), and they should handle permit applications^[3]
Calling 811 (Arkansas One Call) is mandatory at least two business days before any digging to mark underground utility lines – it’s free, safe, and required by law^[4]

Whether you need a permit for concrete work in Arkansas depends on your project type, location, and scope. For homeowners in Fayetteville and across Arkansas, understanding permit requirements protects you from code violations, ensures structural safety, and prevents costly mistakes. Most concrete projects exceeding $2,000 or connecting to public rights-of-way require permits from your local building department, while driveway access to state highways always needs ARDOT approval.

Understanding Arkansas Concrete Permit Requirements

Arkansas doesn’t have a single statewide permit rule that applies to all concrete work. Instead, permit requirements are determined by three key factors: your local municipality’s building codes, the Arkansas Department of Transportation regulations for road access, and state contractor licensing thresholds. This layered system means homeowners must check with multiple authorities depending on their project.

The confusion around permits often stems from this multi-level regulatory structure. A patio built entirely on private property has different requirements than a driveway connecting to a public street. Understanding which authority governs your specific project saves time and prevents violations.

State Highway Access Permits (ARDOT Requirements)

If your concrete driveway connects to any Arkansas state highway, you must obtain an access driveway permit from the Arkansas Department of Transportation before starting construction. This requirement applies to both new driveway installations and modifications to existing driveways that access state-maintained roads.^[1]

ARDOT issues these permits through district offices to ensure driveways meet safety standards for sight distances, drainage, and traffic flow. The permit process typically requires submitting site plans showing the proposed driveway location, dimensions, and relationship to the highway. Professional concrete contractors familiar with Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas projects understand ARDOT requirements and can navigate this process efficiently.

According to ARDOT regulations, access driveway permits ensure that new connections to state highways don’t create safety hazards or drainage problems. The department reviews each application based on traffic volumes, highway classification, and local conditions. Homeowners attempting DIY driveway projects without this permit risk enforcement action and may be required to remove non-compliant work.^[1]

Local City and County Building Permits

Beyond state highway requirements, most Arkansas cities and counties require building permits for concrete work. In Fayetteville, the Building Safety Division enforces codes based on Arkansas state building standards with local modifications. Concrete projects including driveways, patios, walkways, and slabs typically require permits when they’re not purely cosmetic maintenance.^[2]

Fayetteville’s permit requirements cover structural changes and new construction. While painting or minor surface repairs don’t need permits, installing a new concrete driveway or expanding a patio does. The city requires homeowners or contractors to obtain permits before starting work, with penalties up to $100 for starting without proper authorization.^[5]

Other Northwest Arkansas cities like Rogers, Springdale, and Bentonville have similar requirements. Rogers specifically requires building permits for all residential projects over $2,000 and commercial projects over $50,000, aligning with state contractor licensing thresholds.^[6] Each municipality may have specific submission requirements including site plans, drawings, and project dimensions.

When Permits Are NOT Required

Certain concrete projects may not require permits in Arkansas, though exceptions vary by location. Generally, permits aren’t needed for:

Small repairs and maintenance: Patching cracks, resurfacing existing concrete, or fixing minor damage typically falls under maintenance exemptions. However, replacing entire sections or expanding existing concrete usually requires permits.

Private property projects with no public access: Concrete work entirely on private land that doesn’t affect drainage, utilities, or property lines may not require permits in some rural or unincorporated areas. This exemption is rare and should always be confirmed with local authorities.^[7]

Small decorative elements: Stepping stones, small garden borders, or minimal landscaping features under 200 square feet sometimes avoid permit requirements, though zoning approval may still be needed for accessory structures.

Even when permits aren’t strictly required, Arkansas law mandates calling 811 before any excavation. This free service from Arkansas One Call protects homeowners from hitting underground utilities, which could result in injuries, service interruptions, and costly repairs.^[4]

Arkansas Contractor Licensing and Permit Responsibilities

The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board plays a crucial role in permit requirements through licensing thresholds. Any contractor performing work over $2,000 on residential projects (including labor and materials) must hold an appropriate Arkansas contractor license.^[3] This means most concrete driveways, patios, and walkways require a licensed contractor since typical projects exceed this amount.

For homeowners in Fayetteville, this licensing requirement provides important protections. Licensed contractors understand local permit requirements and typically handle the permitting process as part of their service. They pull necessary permits, schedule required inspections, and ensure work meets code requirements. According to the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board, properly licensed contractors must handle permit applications for projects they undertake, removing this burden from homeowners.^[3]

Types of Arkansas Contractor Licenses

Arkansas offers several contractor license types relevant to concrete work:

Residential Builders License: Required to build single-family residences when project costs exceed $2,000. This license also covers residential remodeling and allows contractors to perform most concrete work on homes.^[8]

Residential Remodelers License: Needed for major structural changes or additions to existing single-family residences over $2,000. This applies to many concrete projects including foundation work and major driveway installations.^[8]

Commercial License: Required for any commercial project exceeding $50,000. Since most projects not involving single-family residences are considered commercial, this includes concrete work at apartment buildings, businesses, and multi-unit properties.^[3]

Homeowners should always verify their contractor holds the appropriate license before starting work. The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board maintains a searchable database of licensed contractors. Working with unlicensed contractors voids permit protections and may leave homeowners liable for substandard work.

Who Pulls the Permits?

When hiring a licensed contractor for concrete work in Arkansas, the contractor typically pulls all necessary permits as part of their service. This arrangement benefits homeowners because professional contractors understand local requirements, have established relationships with building departments, and know which documents and fees are needed.

For homeowner DIY projects, the property owner can apply for permits directly. However, homeowners should carefully consider their capabilities. Concrete work involves specialized knowledge of Arkansas soil conditions, proper grading for the region’s clay soils, and understanding how freeze-thaw cycles affect installations in Northwest Arkansas. Even when legally allowed to self-permit, many homeowners find that hiring licensed professionals provides better long-term results.

Project Type	Permit Typically Required?	Governing Authority	Who Should Pull Permit
Driveway to State Highway	Yes	ARDOT	Licensed Contractor
Driveway Within City Limits	Yes (Usually)	Local Building Department	Licensed Contractor or Homeowner
Concrete Patio (New Construction)	Yes (Usually)	Local Building Department	Licensed Contractor or Homeowner
Structural Foundation Work	Yes (Always)	Local Building Department	Licensed Contractor
Concrete Slab on Private Land	Sometimes	Local Building Department	Verify with Local Authority
Minor Repairs/Resurfacing	Usually Not	N/A	N/A
Walkway/Sidewalk (Private)	Sometimes	Local Building Department	Verify with Local Authority
Walkway/Sidewalk (Public ROW)	Yes	City/County + ARDOT (if applicable)	Licensed Contractor

The Arkansas Concrete Permit Application Process

Obtaining permits for concrete work in Arkansas follows a systematic process, though specific requirements vary by jurisdiction. Understanding the typical steps helps homeowners plan their projects and avoid delays.

Step 1: Contact Your Local Building Department

Before starting any concrete project in Fayetteville or elsewhere in Arkansas, contact your local building department to determine exact permit requirements. For Fayetteville residents, the Building Safety Division can be reached at 479-575-8238 to clarify whether your specific project needs a permit.^[2]

During this initial contact, ask about: Required documentation (site plans, property surveys, engineering drawings) Permit fees for your project type Timeline for permit approval Inspection requirements during and after construction Any special requirements for your property’s zoning or location

Step 2: Call 811 Before You Dig

Arkansas law requires calling 811 (Arkansas One Call) at least two business days before any excavation. This free service arranges for professional locators to mark underground utility lines including electric, gas, water, telecommunications, and cable.^[4]

You can call 811 or 1-800-482-8998, or submit requests online through Arkansas811.com. Locators will mark utilities with color-coded flags or paint: red for electric lines, yellow for gas, orange for telecommunications, and other colors for different utilities. Even small concrete projects require this step, as underground utilities can be located only inches below the surface.^[9]

Failure to call 811 before digging is illegal in Arkansas and can result in fines, liability for utility damage, and serious safety hazards. According to Arkansas One Call, homeowners should wait until utilities are marked before beginning any excavation work for concrete projects.^[4]

Step 3: Submit Permit Application and Required Documents

Once you’ve determined permit requirements and had utilities marked, submit your permit application to the appropriate authority. For city projects in Fayetteville, applications go to the Building Safety Division. For driveways accessing state highways, submit to your local ARDOT district office.

Typical permit application requirements include: Completed application form with property information Site plan showing project location, dimensions, and proximity to property lines Proof of contractor licensing (if applicable) Permit fees (typically $50-$200 for residential concrete projects, varying by jurisdiction) Engineering documents (for structural or complex projects)

Processing times vary but typically range from 3-10 business days for straightforward concrete projects. Complex projects or those requiring zoning review may take longer. Building departments may request additional information or modifications before approving permits.

Step 4: Schedule and Pass Required Inspections

After permit approval, Arkansas building codes require inspections at specific project stages. For concrete work, inspections typically occur before concrete is poured (to verify proper base preparation, forms, and reinforcement) and after project completion (to confirm the work meets approved plans and code requirements).

Professional contractors schedule these inspections and ensure work is ready for inspection. For homeowner DIY projects, contact your building department to schedule inspections at appropriate stages. Never pour concrete or backfill excavations before required inspections, as inspectors need to verify work before it’s covered.

Failed inspections require corrections before proceeding. Common issues in Arkansas concrete work include improper drainage, insufficient base preparation for clay soils, inadequate reinforcement, or deviations from approved plans. Working with experienced contractors familiar with local requirements helps avoid inspection failures.

Why Arkansas Concrete Permit Requirements Exist

Permit requirements serve important purposes beyond bureaucratic process. Understanding why Arkansas requires permits for concrete work helps homeowners appreciate their value.

Safety and Structural Integrity

Concrete structures must safely support their intended loads and withstand Arkansas’s climate conditions. Building codes ensure concrete work meets minimum standards for thickness, reinforcement, and construction quality. In Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas, this includes accounting for clay soil expansion, freeze-thaw cycles, and proper drainage to prevent premature failure.^[10]

Inspections catch problems before they become expensive failures. Inadequate base preparation, improper concrete mix, or missing expansion joints can cause cracking, settling, or complete structural failure within months. Permitted work provides documentation and accountability, protecting homeowners’ investments.

Property Value and Resale Protection

Unpermitted concrete work creates problems when selling your home. Buyers’ home inspectors and lenders often require proof that major improvements were permitted and inspected. According to real estate experts, unpermitted work can delay or prevent home sales, reduce property values, or require expensive corrections before closing.^[11]

Properly permitted and inspected concrete driveways can recover up to 80% of installation costs in increased home value. This return on investment disappears if work is unpermitted or fails to meet code requirements.

Utility Protection and Public Safety

Permit requirements integrate with Arkansas One Call (811) to protect underground utilities. Concrete excavation without utility location causes gas leaks, power outages, water main breaks, and telecommunications disruptions. These incidents endanger lives, disrupt communities, and leave property owners liable for damage costs that can reach tens of thousands of dollars.^[4]

The permit process ensures contractors and homeowners follow safety protocols. Building departments verify that projects comply with setback requirements, don’t block easements, and maintain proper drainage that doesn’t flood neighboring properties.

Drainage and Environmental Compliance

Arkansas’s humid subtropical climate makes proper drainage critical for concrete projects. Permits ensure new concrete work doesn’t create flooding problems, redirect stormwater onto neighbors’ property, or violate environmental regulations.

Fayetteville’s rolling terrain and clay soils require careful attention to grading and drainage. Building departments review projects to ensure compliance with stormwater management requirements. Unpermitted work that creates drainage problems can result in enforcement action, required corrections, and liability for damage to neighboring properties.

Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas Specific Considerations

Concrete work in Fayetteville and surrounding Northwest Arkansas communities faces unique challenges that make understanding permit requirements especially important.

Clay Soil Conditions

Northwest Arkansas, including Fayetteville, features clay-based soils that expand and contract with moisture changes. These soil characteristics require special attention to base preparation, proper compaction, and adequate concrete thickness. Building inspections verify contractors properly address clay soil issues, which are critical for long-lasting concrete installations in the region.^[10]

Permitted work ensures contractors follow best practices for Arkansas clay soils: removing organic topsoil, compacting the subgrade thoroughly, and installing proper base layers. These steps prevent the settling and cracking that plague improperly prepared concrete in clay soil areas.

Freeze-Thaw Cycle Impacts

While Arkansas experiences milder winters than northern states, Fayetteville and the Ozark region encounter occasional freeze-thaw cycles. Water infiltrating concrete expands when freezing, causing cracks and spalling. Properly permitted concrete work includes appropriate air entrainment, proper joint spacing, and adequate thickness to resist freeze-thaw damage.

Building code requirements address these climate-specific factors. Inspectors verify concrete specifications match local conditions, protecting homeowners from premature deterioration.

University of Arkansas Area Considerations

Properties near the University of Arkansas campus or in established neighborhoods like Wilson Park face additional scrutiny for concrete work. Historic district requirements, homeowners’ association rules, or special zoning provisions may impose additional standards beyond basic permit requirements.

Homeowners in these areas should contact Fayetteville’s Planning Division in addition to the Building Safety Division to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. Professional contractors familiar with Fayetteville’s various neighborhoods understand these nuanced requirements.

Common Permit Violations and How to Avoid Them

Understanding common permit-related mistakes helps Arkansas homeowners avoid costly problems.

Starting Work Before Permit Approval

The most common violation is beginning concrete work before obtaining required permits. Fayetteville and other Arkansas cities can levy penalties, stop work orders, and require permit applications after the fact with additional fees. Some jurisdictions assess “after-the-fact” permit fees at double the standard rate.^[5]

Even when contractors promise to “handle the permits later,” homeowners remain ultimately responsible for unpermitted work on their property. Always verify permits are approved before allowing concrete work to begin.

Hiring Unlicensed Contractors

Working with unlicensed contractors creates multiple problems. Arkansas law requires contractor licensing for projects over $2,000, and properly licensed contractors must pull necessary permits. Unlicensed contractors often skip permits entirely or lack the knowledge to obtain them correctly.^[3]

Homeowners who hire unlicensed contractors face liability for unpermitted work, have no recourse through the Contractors Licensing Board if problems arise, and may find their homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover damage from unlicensed work.

Skipping Required Inspections

Some contractors or DIY homeowners attempt to avoid inspections by covering work before inspectors review it. This violation can result in requirements to expose covered work, failed inspections, and potential requirements to remove and replace non-compliant concrete.

Follow the inspection schedule outlined in your permit. Professional contractors coordinate inspections as part of their service, ensuring work proceeds smoothly through all required checkpoints.

Not Calling 811 Before Excavation

Failing to call Arkansas One Call before digging is both illegal and dangerous. Homeowners who skip this step risk hitting underground utilities, causing injuries, service outages, and expensive emergency repairs. Additionally, utility companies may hold property owners financially liable for damage to their infrastructure.^[4]

The 811 call takes minutes and costs nothing. Professional utility locators mark your property within two business days, allowing safe excavation for concrete projects.

Common Violation	Potential Consequences	How to Avoid
Starting work without permit	Stop work orders, double permit fees, removal requirements	Obtain all permits before beginning any construction
Using unlicensed contractors	No permit protection, no legal recourse, insurance issues	Verify contractor license with Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board
Skipping 811 utility location	Utility damage, injuries, fines, liability for repairs	Call 811 at least 2 business days before any excavation
Missing required inspections	Failed permits, removal of non-compliant work, additional costs	Schedule all required inspections before covering work
Deviating from approved plans	Failed inspections, permit violations, required corrections	Follow approved plans exactly or submit change requests
Ignoring drainage requirements	Neighbor complaints, legal liability, required corrections	Ensure proper grading per approved plans and local codes

Working With Professional Contractors for Permitted Concrete Work

Hiring experienced, licensed contractors simplifies the permit process and ensures compliance with Arkansas regulations.

What Licensed Contractors Should Provide

When hiring a contractor for concrete work in Fayetteville or elsewhere in Arkansas, expect these professional standards:

Proof of licensing: Contractors should provide their Arkansas contractor license number, which you can verify through the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board website or by calling 501-372-4661.^[12]

Permit handling: Professional contractors pull necessary permits, pay permit fees (typically included in project quotes), and coordinate all required inspections. They should explain which permits your project needs and handle the application process.

Insurance documentation: Licensed contractors carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Request certificates of insurance before signing contracts to protect yourself from liability for on-site injuries or property damage.

Written contracts: All work should be documented in written contracts specifying project scope, materials, timeline, payment terms, and permit responsibilities. Arkansas law requires written contracts for work exceeding $2,000.^[3]

Code compliance expertise: Experienced contractors understand Arkansas building codes, local requirements, and climate-specific considerations. They should explain how your project addresses soil conditions, drainage, and other regional factors.

Questions to Ask Potential Contractors

Before hiring a contractor for permitted concrete work, ask:

“What is your Arkansas contractor license number?” Verify the response through official channels. Licensed contractors readily provide this information.

“Which permits does my project require?” Professional contractors clearly explain permit requirements and their process for obtaining them.

“Will permit fees be included in your quote?” Understand whether your contract includes permit costs or if they’ll be additional expenses.

“How long will the permit process take?” Experienced contractors provide realistic timelines based on local processing times.

“What inspections are required and who schedules them?” Contractors should handle inspection scheduling and ensure work is ready when inspectors arrive.

“Do you have experience with Fayetteville/Arkansas soil conditions?” Local expertise matters for addressing clay soils, drainage, and climate factors.

The Value of Local Expertise

Contractors familiar with Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas bring valuable local knowledge. They understand Fayetteville’s building department procedures, have relationships with local inspectors, and know how to navigate ARDOT requirements for state highway access.

Local contractors also understand regional challenges like clay soil preparation, proper drainage for Arkansas’s humid climate, and appropriate concrete specifications for freeze-thaw resistance. This expertise prevents problems that plague concrete installations by contractors unfamiliar with Arkansas conditions.

Permit Costs and Project Budgeting

Understanding permit costs helps homeowners budget accurately for concrete projects in Arkansas.

Typical Arkansas Permit Fees

Permit fees vary by jurisdiction and project scope, but typical ranges for concrete work in Arkansas include:

City building permits: $50-$200 for standard residential concrete projects like driveways and patios. Larger or more complex projects may incur higher fees based on project valuation.^[2]

ARDOT access driveway permits: Fees vary by district but typically range from $50-$150 for residential driveway connections to state highways.^[1]

Inspection fees: Some jurisdictions charge separate inspection fees ($25-$75 per inspection) while others include inspection costs in base permit fees.

Plan review fees: Complex projects requiring engineering review may incur additional plan review fees based on project valuation.

According to industry sources, building permit fees for Arkansas homes typically range from $800-$1,800 when constructing new homes, but individual concrete projects have much lower permit costs.^[13]

Total Project Costs Including Permits

When budgeting for concrete work, permit fees represent a small fraction of total costs. For example, typical Fayetteville concrete driveway projects cost $6-$10 per square foot for standard installation. A 400-square-foot driveway (12 feet x 33 feet) costs $2,400-$4,000 for materials and installation, with permit fees adding perhaps $100-$200 to the total.^[14]

Professional contractors typically include permit fees in their project quotes, simplifying budgeting. Always request itemized quotes showing permit fees separately so you understand all project costs.

Homeowner Exemptions and DIY Considerations

Arkansas law allows property owners to perform work on their own homes without contractor licensing, but permits are still generally required. Understanding these exemptions helps homeowners who prefer DIY concrete projects.

The Homeowner Exemption

According to the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board, property owners can perform “home improvement” work on their own single-family residence without a contractor license. This exemption applies whether you live in the home or it’s a rental property you own.^[15]

However, this exemption doesn’t eliminate permit requirements. Homeowners must still obtain building permits for concrete work requiring them and follow all code requirements. The exemption only allows working without a contractor license – it doesn’t bypass building codes or inspection requirements.

For homeowners hiring contractors, remember that the contractor performing the work must be licensed if the project exceeds $2,000. The homeowner exemption doesn’t extend to contractors you hire, even if you purchase materials separately.^[15]

Challenges of DIY Permitted Concrete Work

While homeowners legally can tackle their own concrete projects, several factors make this challenging:

Technical complexity: Quality concrete work requires understanding mix design, proper reinforcement, joint placement, and finishing techniques. Arkansas’s clay soils and climate add complexity that professional contractors navigate through experience.

Equipment requirements: Concrete projects need specialized tools including mixers, screeds, floats, edgers, and groover tools. Renting or purchasing these tools adds costs that narrow the DIY savings gap.

Physical demands: Concrete work is physically demanding, requiring heavy lifting, extended periods of kneeling or bending, and working within tight time constraints as concrete sets.

Permit and inspection knowledge: Navigating permit applications, understanding code requirements, and preparing for inspections requires research and attention to detail. Mistakes can lead to failed inspections and required corrections.

Timing and weather: Concrete installation depends on suitable weather conditions and requires completing all finishing work before the concrete sets. DIY homeowners may lack flexibility to respond to weather changes or complete work efficiently.

When to Hire Professionals vs. DIY

Consider hiring licensed professionals for:

Projects requiring ARDOT permits or complex permitting
Structural concrete like foundations or load-bearing slabs
Large projects (over 200 square feet) requiring significant excavation
Work in areas with difficult access or challenging site conditions
Projects where mistakes would be expensive to correct
Any work you’re not confident completing to code standards

DIY may be appropriate for:

Small, non-structural projects like garden stepping stones
Projects with clearly defined permit requirements and simple inspection processes
Work where you have relevant experience or skills
Projects where you can work flexibly around weather and personal schedule

Even when considering DIY, consult with professional contractors. Many offer consultation services or can review your plans to ensure code compliance. The cost of professional advice often prevents expensive mistakes.

Conclusion

Navigating permit requirements for concrete work in Arkansas doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Most concrete projects in Fayetteville and across Arkansas require permits – whether from your local building department, ARDOT for state highway access, or both. The key to success is understanding which authorities govern your specific project and working with licensed contractors who handle permitting as part of their professional service.

Remember these essential steps: contact your local building department early in project planning to clarify permit requirements, verify any contractor you hire holds appropriate Arkansas licensing, always call 811 at least two business days before excavation, and never skip required inspections. These simple practices protect your investment, ensure code compliance, and create concrete installations that withstand Arkansas’s unique climate challenges for decades.

For homeowners in Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas, working with experienced local contractors familiar with regional soil conditions, drainage requirements, and climate considerations provides the best results. Professional contractors navigate permit processes efficiently, ensuring your concrete driveway, patio, or walkway meets all requirements while delivering the durability and appearance you expect.

Ready to start your concrete project with confidence? Contact AR Concrete Fayetteville for expert guidance on permit requirements and professional installation that exceeds Arkansas building standards. Our licensed team handles all aspects of permitting and ensures your project succeeds from planning through final inspection.

Do You Need a Permit for Concrete in Arkansas FAQs

Do I need a permit for a concrete driveway in Fayetteville Arkansas?

Yes, most concrete driveways in Fayetteville require permits from the city’s Building Safety Division, especially for new installations or major replacements. If your driveway connects to a state highway, you’ll also need an access driveway permit from ARDOT. Small repairs or resurfacing typically don’t require permits, but it’s best to confirm with the Building Safety Division at 479-575-8238 before starting work.^[2]

Do I need a permit for a concrete patio in Arkansas?

Concrete patios typically require building permits in Arkansas cities including Fayetteville, especially for new construction or substantial expansions. Small decorative elements or minor repairs may not need permits, but most patio projects over 100 square feet will require permits and inspections. Your local building department can confirm requirements for your specific project based on size, location, and complexity.^[5]

What happens if I pour concrete without a permit in Arkansas?

Pouring concrete without required permits in Arkansas can result in stop-work orders, fines, and requirements to remove non-compliant work. Many jurisdictions charge double permit fees for after-the-fact permits, and unpermitted work can create problems when selling your home. Additionally, unpermitted work may not be covered by homeowners insurance if problems arise, and you may face enforcement action from your city or county building department.^[5]

How much does a concrete permit cost in Arkansas?

Concrete permit costs in Arkansas vary by jurisdiction and project scope, but typically range from $50-$200 for standard residential projects like driveways and patios. ARDOT access driveway permits for connections to state highways typically cost $50-$150. Some cities charge additional inspection fees while others include inspection costs in base permit fees. Your contractor should include permit fees in their project quote, or you can contact your local building department for exact fees for your specific project.^[1][2]

Do contractors need to be licensed to pour concrete in Arkansas?

Yes, contractors performing concrete work valued at more than $2,000 (including labor and materials) on residential projects must hold an appropriate Arkansas contractor license from the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. For commercial projects, licensing is required for work exceeding $50,000. Homeowners can perform work on their own single-family residence without a license, but contractors you hire must be properly licensed. You can verify contractor licensing at labor.arkansas.gov or by calling 501-372-4661.^[3][8]

Do You Need a Permit for Concrete in Arkansas Citations

Arkansas Department of Transportation. “Access Driveway Permits.” ARDOT Permits Division.
City of Fayetteville Arkansas. “Permitting Services.” City of Fayetteville Building Safety Division.
Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing. “Apply for Contractors License/Registration.” Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board.
Arkansas One Call. “Call 811 Before You Dig.” Entergy Arkansas Safe Digging Guidelines.
NWA Decks & Patios. “What Home Projects Do You Need a Building Permit For in Fayetteville, AR?” (2021).
City of Rogers Arkansas. “Contractor Licensing Requirements.” City of Rogers Building Department.
Arkansas Attorney General. “File an 811 Complaint.” Arkansas Underground Facilities Damage Prevention Act Enforcement.
Procore. “Arkansas Contractor Licensing Requirements: A Complete Guide.” (2024).
Conway Corp. “Call Before You Dig.” (2023).
AR Concrete Fayetteville. “How Thick Should a Concrete Driveway Be in Arkansas?” AR Concrete Fayetteville Blog.
Today’s Homeowner. “How Much Does it Cost to Build a House in Arkansas?” (2025).
Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. “Home Page.” Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board Official Website.
Today’s Homeowner. “How Much Does it Cost to Build a House in Arkansas?” Building Permit Fees Section. (2025).
HomeBlue. “Concrete Driveway Cost in Fayetteville, Arkansas.” (2025).
Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. “Frequently Asked Questions.” (2020).

Are Permits Required for Concrete Work in Arkansas?