Arkansas homeowners face changing rules about what they can put in their yards. New regulations aim to protect the environment, maintain neighborhood standards, and address safety concerns.
Before starting your next outdoor project, check with local authorities to avoid fines or having to remove installations that no longer comply with current laws.
1. Tall Privacy Fences
Many neighborhoods now cap fence heights at 6 feet or less. The days of building fortress-like barriers around your property are fading fast in Arkansas communities.
Homeowners associations and city codes increasingly restrict fence heights to maintain community aesthetics and prevent disputes between neighbors. Some areas even require permits for any fence installation, with inspections to ensure compliance.
2. Front Yard Vegetable Gardens
Growing tomatoes and peppers in your front yard might land you in hot water. Several Arkansas communities have banned front yard vegetable gardens, claiming they reduce property values.
Residents must relocate their crops to backyards or face fines. The reasoning? Some neighborhoods consider vegetable plants unsightly compared to traditional landscaping with flowers and shrubs, despite the growing popularity of home food production.
3. Backyard Chicken Coops
Fresh eggs from backyard hens have become a controversial luxury in many Arkansas communities. Municipalities are cracking down on urban chicken keeping, especially in denser neighborhoods.
Concerns about noise, odor, and attracting predators have led to strict regulations. Where chickens are still allowed, permits are often required, with limits on flock size—typically 4-6 hens maximum—and roosters are almost universally prohibited due to their early morning crowing.
4. Rain Barrels And Cisterns
Collecting rainwater seems eco-friendly, but some Arkansas communities restrict or regulate this practice. Concerns about mosquito breeding and water rights have led to limitations.
Where allowed, rain barrels must often be covered, elevated, and regularly maintained. Local ordinances may restrict the volume of water you can collect or require specific designs to prevent standing water issues that could become public health concerns.
5. Artificial Turf Lawns
Fake grass might seem like a low-maintenance dream, but it’s facing growing opposition. Some Arkansas communities now restrict artificial turf, especially in front yards visible from the street.
Critics point to environmental concerns like heat retention, lack of habitat for insects, and drainage issues. Homeowners associations often have strict rules about synthetic grass installation, with some banning it outright or limiting it to small areas not visible from public spaces.
6. Large Recreational Equipment
Basketball hoops, trampolines, and playground sets face increasing scrutiny in Arkansas neighborhoods. Permanent installations often require permits, while temporary equipment might need to be stored out of sight when not in use.
Safety concerns and aesthetic considerations drive these restrictions. Many communities now require recreational equipment to be placed in backyards only, with specific setbacks from property lines to reduce noise impact on neighbors and prevent accidents.
7. Excessive Outdoor Lighting
Bright security lights and decorative illumination are being dimmed across Arkansas. Light pollution ordinances now restrict the brightness, direction, and hours of operation for outdoor lighting.
Motion-activated systems are replacing constant illumination in many areas. The goal is to reduce glare affecting neighbors and passing drivers while preserving the night sky. Some communities have designated “dark sky” areas where lighting must be minimal and directed downward.
8. Non-Native Plant Species
Exotic plants that once decorated Arkansas yards are now facing bans. Species like Bradford pear trees and certain ornamental grasses are being restricted due to their invasive nature.
Environmental concerns about these plants escaping into natural areas drive these regulations. Native plant requirements are becoming more common in new developments, with some municipalities offering incentives for removing problematic species and replacing them with local alternatives that support wildlife.
9. Large Above-Ground Pools
Substantial above-ground swimming pools are making a splash with regulators. Many Arkansas communities now require permits, safety fencing, and setbacks from property lines for these popular cooling options.
Safety concerns and aesthetic considerations are behind these rules. Some neighborhoods prohibit visible pools from street view or require screening with landscaping. Regulations often address water disposal issues as well, prohibiting draining pool water directly into storm sewers or neighboring properties.