Environmental Rules in Springdale, AR: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Springdale or are thinking about moving there, environmental rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Springdale has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of environmental rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Stormwater Management

Springdale governs stormwater drainage design under a citywide Drainage Criteria Manual adopted by ordinance and enforceable under Chapter 106 of the city code.

Key details: Governing document: City Drainage Criteria Manual. Adopted by: Ord. No. 2999 (2000), as amended. Standard rule: Most restrictive rule governs. Penalty: Fine under § 1-9, per day.

Violating the drainage chapter draws a fine under Sec. 1-9 plus prosecution costs; each day a violation continues counts as its own separate offense.

Flood Zones

Springdale adopts a Flood Damage Prevention Code by reference and regulates all development in FEMA special flood hazard areas within city limits.

Key details: Governs: All FEMA special flood hazard areas citywide. Adopted code: Flood Damage Prevention Code, Sept. 2007. Max fine: $500.00 per day, per violation. Enforcement: Floodplain administrator. Counties mapped: Washington County and Benton County FIRMs.

Misdemeanor; fines up to $500.00 per day per violation plus court costs. The floodplain administrator can also issue cease-and-desist orders, issue citations, and request FEMA deny flood insurance (a 1316 Action) against noncompliant properties.

This is one of the stricter rules in Springdale's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Erosion Control

Springdale requires an approved development plan before the city will issue a grading permit or building permit for most new development or parking lots.

Key details: Trigger: Development, construction, or parking lots. Exemption: Single-family residential construction. Large-scale threshold: 1 acre or more. Review body: Planning commission or director.

Starting grading or drainage work without an approved development plan and permit blocks issuance of a building permit and utility connections, and can require re-submission of the entire development plan.

The Bottom Line

Springdale's environmental rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Springdale is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Springdale's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.