Benton County, AR Special Events & Permits: Street Fair Rules (2026)

D lists the temporary uses that always require Planning Board review because they cannot meet the private-property, 30-day exemption test in Sec. B. The list explicitly names 'fairs, festivals, events, and concerts,' along with outdoor sales or display of merchandise using public right-of-way, non-mobile or mobile vendor stands, outdoor temporary swap meets or auctions, seasonal farmers markets, and vehicle or boat events, several of the activities that make up a typical street fair. An organizer must submit a completed application and fee, a cover letter describing the scale and duration of the event, and an informal site plan.

Sec. D also requires 'supplemental materials and/or approvals based on proposed activity,' noting that some uses need sign-off from the Sheriff's Office, Health Department, or Fire Department before the Planning Board can act, relevant for a festival with food vendors, outdoor stages, or road closures. The application must be filed at least fifteen calendar days before the event date. Under Sec. E, the Board hears the request at a public hearing and can approve or conditionally approve it only if the use is compatible with the surrounding area, will not adversely affect adjacent properties, and is not a nuisance or safety hazard.