Little Rock Stormwater Runoff Control Ordinance

Environmental Protection Arkansas 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of Arkansas

Little Rock, Arkansas requires controls on stormwater runoff from construction, commercial sites and public works to protect waterways and comply with state and federal permits. This article summarizes the city-level ordinance framework, who enforces the rules, practical compliance steps for property owners and developers, and how to report suspected illicit discharges or erosion problems.

Scope & Key Requirements

The city ordinance covers stormwater runoff, erosion and sediment control, post-construction stormwater management, and illicit discharge prohibitions for properties within Little Rock city limits. Owners and contractors must install best management practices (BMPs), maintain stabilized entrances, and prevent sediment or pollutants from leaving the site during and after work.

Follow local BMP checklists during grading and construction to reduce enforcement risk.

For official program details and permits contact the city Stormwater Division. Little Rock Stormwater Division[1]

Permits, Design Standards and Compliance

Construction and land-disturbing activities may require erosion control plans, a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP), and inspection schedules. Post-construction controls may include retention or detention, vegetated buffers, and maintenance agreements for private facilities.

  • Permit applications and plan submittals for land disturbance.
  • Required installation of erosion and sediment controls during construction.
  • Inspection records and maintenance plans for post-construction BMPs.
Keep a copy of your approved plans and inspection logs on site until permanent stabilization is achieved.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is carried out by the City of Little Rock Stormwater Division and associated code enforcement staff. The municipal code and stormwater program set compliance requirements and penalties; specific monetary fines and fee schedules are not specified on the cited municipal code page below, so consult the city for exact amounts.[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence structures are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, mandatory corrective orders, removal of fill or restoration obligations, and court actions.
  • Enforcer: City Stormwater Division and code enforcement; complaints accepted through the city’s stormwater contact page.[1]
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited municipal code page and must be confirmed with the city.
  • Defences/discretion: permitted activities under an approved permit, approved variances, or emergency measures may be considered by enforcement staff; specifics not specified on the cited page.
If you receive an enforcement notice, read it carefully and note any appeal deadlines immediately.

Applications & Forms

The city posts application forms and submission instructions for permits and plan review on its Stormwater Division and Development Services pages; if a specific form is required it will be named on those pages. If no form appears for your activity, contact the Stormwater Division for guidance.[1]

Common Violations

  • Unprotected soil and failed erosion controls.
  • Illicit discharge of wash water, concrete slurry or petroleum to storm sewers.
  • Working without required erosion/sediment permits or plans.

Action Steps

  • Before you build: determine permit needs and submit plans to the city.
  • During construction: install and maintain BMPs and keep inspection logs.
  • To report: use the city stormwater complaint form or call the Stormwater Division.[1]

FAQ

Who enforces stormwater rules in Little Rock?
The City of Little Rock Stormwater Division and code enforcement staff enforce stormwater ordinances and respond to complaints.
Do I need a permit for driveway or yard grading?
Minor grading may be exempt, but most land-disturbing activities require plan review or a permit; check with Development Services or the Stormwater Division.
How do I report an illicit discharge or erosion?
Use the city’s stormwater complaint/contact page or call the Stormwater Division to report spills, discharges or failing controls.[1]

How-To

  1. Identify whether your project triggers land-disturbance or stormwater permitting requirements.
  2. Prepare erosion and sediment control plans and, if required, a SWPPP that lists BMPs and inspection schedules.
  3. Install BMPs before soil is exposed and maintain them until permanent stabilization.
  4. Document inspections, keep records on site, and submit any required reports to the city.
  5. If you observe violations, report with location details, photos and contact information to the Stormwater Division.[1]

Key Takeaways

  • Plan ahead: permitting and BMPs reduce risk of enforcement.
  • Keep inspection logs and as-built records for post-construction BMPs.
  • Report illicit discharges promptly to the Stormwater Division.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Little Rock - Stormwater Division
  2. [2] Little Rock Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data