What Permits Are Required for Demolition in Jonesboro, AR in 2026

Demolishing a structure in Jonesboro, AR, requires navigating multiple permit layers before a single wall comes down. This guide covers the key approvals, who pulls them, utility requirements, and Arkansas-specific rules that apply to teardown projects in Jonesboro and Craighead County in 2026.

What Permits Does a Demolition Project in Jonesboro, AR Require?

A demolition project in Jonesboro typically requires at least two separate permits: a local permit from the City of Jonesboro and a state-level Notice of Intent filed with the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).

City of Jonesboro Permit

The City of Jonesboro issues these permits through its Planning and Zoning and Inspections departments. Residential and commercial projects each carry their own permit type. For permit status questions, the Planning and Zoning Department can be reached at (870) 932-0406, and the Inspections Department at (870) 933-4602.

ADEQ Notice of Intent (NOI)

At the state level, Arkansas requires NOI regardless of whether asbestos is present. Under ADEQ Regulation 21, all teardowns require a written NOI submitted to the Department at least 10 working days before any work begins. The NOI must be accompanied by the required fee and can be submitted online through the SEEK system at seek.ee.arkansas.gov.

Asbestos Inspection

Before any structure is torn down, Arkansas law requires an asbestos inspection of the facility or affected components. If asbestos-containing materials are found, a licensed abatement contractor must handle their removal before the main work can proceed.

Who Pulls the Demolition Permit: Contractor or Property Owner?

Either a licensed contractor or the property owner may apply, but responsibility for compliance falls on the project operator. In practice, most property owners rely on their contractor to manage the permit process, since contractors are familiar with local requirements and inspection timelines.

Step-by-Step Permit Process for Jonesboro Demolition

1.  Schedule an asbestos inspection of the structure before submitting any permit applications.
2. File the ADEQ Notice of Intent at least 10 working days before work begins.
3. Apply for the City of Jonesboro permit through the Planning and Zoning Department at (870) 932-0406.
4. Coordinate all required utility disconnections and obtain disconnect confirmations.
5. Receive permit approval and schedule any required city inspections before work begins.

Do Utilities Need to Be Disconnected Before Demolition Begins?

Yes. Gas, electricity, water, and sewer services must typically be disconnected and capped at the main before a crew can begin work. In Jonesboro, utility providers such as Entergy Arkansas and Jonesboro City Water and Light handle service terminations. Confirm disconnect status in writing before the first day of work to avoid delays and safety hazards.

Are There Special Rules for Older Structures in Jonesboro?

Structures built before 1980 in Jonesboro carry a higher likelihood of containing asbestos or lead-based paint. ADEQ Regulation 21 requires a thorough inspection of all structures before teardown, and the Arkansas Asbestos Material Act makes it unlawful to proceed without certification when asbestos-containing materials are involved. Older neighborhoods near downtown or Arkansas State University may fall under additional review if structures carry any historic designation.

Ready to Move Forward With Your Teardown Project?

Permit requirements can add time and complexity to any project, but the right contractor makes the process manageable. Shannon Kee Construction, LLC serves Jonesboro and surrounding communities with experienced building demolition services, handling compliance coordination so you can stay focused on your project timeline. Call (870) 932-8470 or contact the team to request a quote and get your project started on the right foot.