PERMITS & INSPECTIONS

Building permits and inspections are required to erect, alter, or enlarge any structure on your residential or commercial property.  Permits and inspections are also needed when the owner or contractor installs, alters, repairs, or replaces any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing, the installation of which is regulated by the technical codes.  Proof of licensing is required by all contractors to obtain any permits.   A homeowner may perform work on their primary residence without a license but permits and inspections are still required.  Work may not begin until after the permit has been paid for and approved.

All inspections must be requested and performed before being covered by insulation or finish materials.  Final inspections must be performed before occupancy.  When an inspection does not pass, an ample amount of time will be given to correct the issues and then a re-inspection must be requested.  

ARKANSAS LICENSING REQUIREMENTS

Arkansas Licensing Requirements
When planning a home improvement project or remodel, it’s essential to hire licensed and insured contractors.

In Arkansas, any residential building contractor or home‑improvement contractor must be licensed if the project’s cost exceeds $2,000. Splitting a larger project into smaller contracts does not bypass this requirement. Exceptions mainly apply to homeowners working on their own homes or projects under $2,000.

LICENSING IS NECESSARY FOR:

Electricians: An active Arkansas electrical license is required, even if a contractor is licensed elsewhere. Working without a license can lead to fines and other penalties.

HVAC contractors: It is unlawful to perform heating, ventilation or air‑conditioning work without the appropriate Arkansas HVAC/R license or registration.

Plumbers: A master or journeyman plumber must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Health; a licensed master plumber must oversee most plumbing installations.

WHY THIS MATTERS
Licensed contractors meet training and insurance requirements, which helps ensure quality and safety. Unlicensed work risks poor workmanship, voided warranties, code violations and safety hazards.

CHECK BEFORE YOU HIRE:

  1. Verify the license: Confirm a contractor’s credentials using the appropriate state databases:

  2. Request proof of insurance: Ensure the contractor has liability and workers’ compensation coverage.

  3. Contact City Hall: The City of Marion can verify whether a contractor holds a valid privilege license.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Quality and safety matter — check credentials before hiring to protect yourself and your investment.

If in doubt, contact City Hall for assistance.

PERMITS

Permit Questions?
Please contact City Hall at cityhall@marionarkanasas.org or 870.739.5410.

Ways to Submit Completed Applications
To ensure the completion of permit applications, additional information may be necessary and should be returned in person or via telephone, along with all applicable fees.

In Person or Mail check to:
Marion City Hall
31 Military Road
Marion, AR 72364