Arkansas ADU Laws

Complete 2026 guide to accessory dwelling unit regulations

✓Strong Statewide Law

📋Quick Facts

Owner Occupancy
May be required
Parking
Set locally
Approval Process
✓ By-right
Effective Date
7/1/2025

📜Recent Legislation

Act 313 (2025) - Mandates that all cities and towns permit at least one ADU as permitted use on lots with single-family dwellings

⚠️Key Requirements & Restrictions

  • •All municipalities must allow at least one ADU by right on single-family lots
  • •ADU must be self-contained with kitchen, sleeping quarters, and restroom
  • •Prevents cities from banning ADUs entirely
  • •Can include detached garages, upstairs spaces, and sheds
  • •Cities must comply with Act 313 requirements

📖Detailed Analysis

MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH: Arkansas Act 313 (2025) creates strong statewide ADU mandate - requires every municipality to permit at least one ADU by right on single-family lots. Sponsored by State Senator Bart Hester, law aims to address housing crisis through supply and demand. Prevents cities from banning ADUs entirely. ADUs must be self-contained units with kitchen, sleeping quarters, and restroom. Can include various forms: detached garages, upstairs spaces, sheds. Little Rock seeking public input on implementation. Arkansas becomes 15th state with strong statewide ADU law - significant Southern breakthrough in traditionally restrictive region.

🔗Official Resources

Planning an ADU in Arkansas?

Use our free tools to analyze your investment opportunity and plan your build.

💰 ROI Calculator✓ Project Checklist
📬

Get Arkansas ADU Law Updates

Laws change fast. Get notified when regulations update in your area.

Browse all states

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. ADU laws, regulations, and requirements vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. While we strive to keep this information accurate and up-to-date, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or suitability of this information. Always consult with qualified local professionals, including attorneys, architects, and your local planning department, before making any decisions regarding ADU construction or investment. Use of this information is at your own risk.

ADU Tools by MassDwell

Last updated: February 2026