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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Mayflower
Permits are required for construction, remodels, additions, excavation, HVAC work, and other regulated activities. A building permit must be obtained before any work begins.
Note: Permit validity section of the city code (Chapter 11.04) contains exemptions; contact city at 501-470-1337 for details.
- Residential and commercial applications available at city website
- Building code
- Mayflower specifically adopted the 2012 International Residential Code for one- and two-family dwellings. The National Fire Protection Association Life Safety Code (NFPA 101, latest edition) is also adopted as a reference guide. Arkansas statewide codes (2021 IBC/IRC-based Arkansas Fire Prevention Code) also apply.
- Permit validity
- A building permit becomes void if excavation, clearing, or construction has not begun within 90 days of the issue date. No permit will be issued more than 90 days prior to the proposed start date.
- Contractor requirements
- Arkansas state contractor licensing applies. Licensed electrical, plumbing, and HVAC contractors are required for trade work.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 For commercial projects: attend a Planning Commission meeting first to identify any zoning or ordinance issues; then present to City Council for authorization.
- 02 Complete the building permit application (online or in person).
- 03 Gather required documents and submit with application.
- 04 Pay applicable fees (online payments incur a 2.9% + $0.30 card processing fee; pay in person to avoid this surcharge).
- 05 Permit is issued; fees are non-refundable and payment does not guarantee approval.
- 06 No work may begin until permit is issued.
- 07 Schedule inspections at each required stage.
Fee schedule
Mayflower building permit fees
Online payments incur a 2.9% + $0.30 processing fee. Pay in person at 2 Ashmore Drive to avoid the surcharge. Fees are non-refundable.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- City permit portal (online)
- 501-470-1337 EXT 6 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Thursday, 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Typical sequence: Inspections conducted by the Code Enforcement Officer for general building; by Mayflower Water Works for plumbing, natural gas, septic, and water-related work; by the Fire Marshal for fire prevention and life safety.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Mayflower permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Mayflower, AR? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Mayflower, AR? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Mayflower, AR? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Mayflower, AR? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Mayflower — Building and Zoning before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.