Introduction
If you own land in Arkansas and are thinking about selling, one of the most important things to understand is your property’s zoning classification.
Zoning determines how your land can be used — whether for housing, farming, business, or something else entirely.
Many landowners don’t discover zoning restrictions until a buyer or title company brings them up during closing. Knowing your zoning type in advance helps you price your land accurately, attract the right buyers, and avoid delays.
At Shamrock Lands (501-406-0051), we specialize in buying and evaluating Arkansas land across all zoning categories. Here’s what every landowner should know before selling.
What Is Land Zoning?
Zoning is a set of local rules that determine what can be built or operated on a parcel of land.
These rules are adopted by city or county governments to guide growth and keep different types of property use compatible.
Common zoning purposes:
- Separate residential and commercial areas
- Manage traffic, noise, and utilities
- Preserve open space and agricultural land
- Support long-term community development plans
Every county and city in Arkansas has its own zoning map and code — and they can differ significantly.
Common Zoning Types in Arkansas
Here are the most frequent zoning designations you’ll see across Arkansas cities and counties:
| Zoning Code | Typical Use | Description |
|---|---|---|
| R-1 | Single-Family Residential | Standard home lots with one primary dwelling. |
| R-2 / R-4 | Two-Family or Multi-Family | Allows duplexes or small apartments; often seen in Little Rock and North Little Rock. |
| A-1 / AG | Agricultural | Farming, livestock, and limited residential use; often in rural counties. |
| C-1 / C-2 | Commercial | For offices, retail stores, restaurants, and service businesses. |
| I-1 / I-2 | Industrial | For manufacturing, storage, or heavy industry. |
| PUD / Planned Unit Development | Mixed-Use | Combines residential, commercial, or open space under one plan. |
If your land is outside city limits, it may be unzoned, which means fewer restrictions but sometimes more challenges for financing and permitting.
How to Check Your Zoning in Arkansas
1. Visit Your County or City Planning Department Website
Many counties and cities offer online zoning maps or GIS systems where you can search by parcel number or address.
Examples:
- Little Rock Planning Department: www.littlerock.gov → Planning & Development → Zoning Map
- Benton County GIS: gis.bentoncountyar.gov
- Washington County GIS: www.washingtoncountyar.gov
- Pulaski County GIS: pulaskicounty.net
These tools show your parcel’s zoning classification and often link directly to the local zoning ordinance.
2. Call the Planning Office
If online tools aren’t available or are unclear, call the county planning department.
Ask:
“Can you confirm the current zoning classification for my parcel number (APN)?”
They can also explain what uses are permitted or restricted.
3. Check Your Deed or Plat
In some subdivisions, zoning is listed on the recorded plat or in restrictive covenants (especially in planned developments like Bella Vista or Hot Springs Village).
Why Zoning Matters When Selling Land
Zoning directly influences:
- Property value: Residential lots usually sell for more than agricultural tracts per acre.
- Marketability: A commercial or multi-family zone can attract developers.
- Buyer type: Builders, investors, and individuals all look for different zoning types.
- Future development: Buyers may need rezoning before construction — which can take months.
When buyers know your zoning upfront, they can make confident offers without lengthy due diligence.
Can You Change Zoning Before Selling?
Yes — but it’s not always simple. Rezoning requires:
- A formal rezoning application to your city or county.
- Planning Commission approval after a public hearing.
- City Council or Quorum Court approval.
Rezoning can increase value, but it can also take 60–120 days and isn’t guaranteed. For many sellers, it’s faster and easier to sell to a buyer like Shamrock Lands, who can handle zoning and permitting after closing.
How Shamrock Lands Helps
When we evaluate land in Arkansas, our team checks zoning and local regulations before making an offer.
We buy:
- Residential and agricultural lots
- Land in mixed or unclear zoning areas
- Properties requiring rezoning or variance applications
We handle all paperwork and close through licensed title companies — no commissions, no closing costs, and fast closings in as little as 15 days.
Conclusion
Understanding your zoning classification is essential for any Arkansas landowner planning to sell. It determines who your buyers are, how much the land is worth, and what can be built in the future.
If you’re unsure how your property is zoned — or want a free, no-obligation cash offer — Shamrock Lands can help you look it up and handle the rest.
📞 Call 501-406-0051
🌐 www.shamrocklands.com