How inspections work
24-hour notice required. Text 475-522-1003, call 479-271-1003 and choose option 1, email Permits@bentoncountyar.gov, or request through the online portal.
What the office says about permits
Unincorporated Benton County does require building permits, which contradicts the common assumption that county land is unregulated. Permits are required for new residential construction, additions, interior remodels, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work, pre-fabricated dwellings, storm shelters, pools, any structure attached to a residence, all commercial development, and driveway connections to county-maintained roads. New construction and remodel fees are calculated from the ICC Building Valuation table. Published flat fees include attached carport $50, attached carport with slab $100, attached deck $100, demolition $50, mobile or manufactured home $100, move-on structure with bedroom $250, storm shelter $50, and electric, plumbing, and HVAC permits at $50 each. Re-inspection is $50 and there is a 3 percent credit card fee. Permits are valid six months while the project is active and can be extended up to three times by email.
Work that may not need a permit
Effective 11/28/2023, Group U structures in unincorporated Benton County no longer require a building permit. That includes detached shop buildings with no living space, carports, storage buildings, decks, and fences. Site plan review by the county Planning Office is still required even when no building permit is needed.
Contractor registration
There is no separate county contractor registration, but a copy of a current state contractor license must be submitted with the permit application if a contractor is used. Changing contractors mid-project requires a new application with the new contractor's state license.
Can a homeowner pull their own permit?
Yes. The county FAQ states a property owner may perform the work themselves without licensing. If the owner hires contractors, those contractors must hold a current license.