Fort Smith, AR Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Fort Smith City Code § 22-8 lets the city administrator issue temporary revocable licenses for limited private improvements, portable buildings, flagpoles, light poles, fencing, signs, and landscaping, placed within public rights-of-way or easements. Applications go to the city administrator, who weighs traffic impact, utility access, ADA compliance, and UDO compatibility before deciding; permanent structures, pools, and other immovable improvements require board of directors approval instead. Licenses are revocable on 30 days' notice, and the licensee must remove the improvement and hold the city and utilities harmless. Building without a license is a misdemeanor punishable under the penalty set in Sec. 1-9.