Arkansas Flood Zones Law: Statewide Environmental Rules Rules (2026)

Arkansas Floodplain Management and Building Standards

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Arkansas (2026)

Arkansas participates in the National Flood Insurance Program through the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission. State law requires participating communities to adopt floodplain management ordinances meeting FEMA minimums, including elevation, anchoring, and substantial improvement rules in Special Flood Hazard Areas.

Key Facts

Statute: Ark. Code 14-268-101
Coordinator: Arkansas Natural Resources
Substantial Improvement: 50% market value
Standard: Base Flood Elevation

Full Breakdown

Under Arkansas Code 14-268-101 et seq., communities participating in the NFIP must adopt and enforce floodplain management ordinances regulating development in mapped Special Flood Hazard Areas. Standards include elevating residential lowest floors at or above Base Flood Elevation, anchoring structures, using flood-resistant materials below BFE, and treating substantial improvements (50% of market value) as new construction. The Arkansas Natural Resources Division provides Coordinator oversight, training, and Community Assistance Visits. Local communities issue floodplain development permits, but FEMA and state minimums preempt looser local interpretations. Non-participating communities lose federal flood insurance access.

Violations & Penalties

Non-compliant construction triggers permit revocation, mandatory removal or elevation, FEMA Section 1316 insurance denial, and possible community probation or NFIP suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arkansas cities required to enforce floodplain rules?

NFIP-participating communities must enforce ordinances meeting FEMA minimums. Non-participation eliminates federally backed flood insurance, federal disaster aid for buildings, and most mortgages in mapped flood zones.

Can I remodel a flood-zone home in Arkansas without elevating it?

Only if cumulative improvements stay below 50% of market value over the rolling period. Substantial improvements trigger full compliance with current Base Flood Elevation requirements.