Little Rock, AR Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Sec. 28-7, Little Rock Code
- Who may compost freely
- Residents, own property only
- Soil cover
- Required over animal waste/garbage
- State overlay
- Must follow ADPC&E Regulation 22
- Max penalty
- $1,000 fine, $500/day continuing
Summary
Little Rock lets residents compost yard waste and animal waste from their own property, but the pile can't become a nuisance and must follow state ADPC&E Regulation 22, with animal waste or garbage covered in soil.
(a)All composting activities shall be conducted in accordance with ADPC&E Regulation 22, as amended. Small composting operations conducted by a person treating yard waste, organic wastes or animal waste taken solely from that person's personal residence or property shall be conducted in a manner not to constitute a public or private nuisance to other persons or property owners either adjacent to or in the vicinity of the composting operation.(b)Animal waste or garbage shall be covered with a layer of soil of sufficient quantity to avoid being a nuisance.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 83).
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 28-7 of the Little Rock Code, home composting of yard waste, organic waste, or animal waste generated solely on your own residential property is allowed without a city permit, provided it's conducted under Arkansas ADPC&E Regulation 22 and doesn't create a public or private nuisance for adjacent or nearby property owners. Any animal waste or garbage in the pile must be covered with enough soil to keep it from becoming a nuisance -- an open, uncovered pile of manure or scraps doesn't comply. Violations fall under the city's general penalty at Sec. 1-9.
Violations & Fines
Composting that becomes a nuisance, or animal waste/garbage left uncovered, can draw a citation under Sec. 1-9 -- a fine up to $1,000, or up to $500 per day if the violation continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to compost at home in Little Rock?
What if my compost pile smells or draws pests?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Little Rock
Compare Little Rock to another location·View the Arkansas landscaping rules overview
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