Zoning promotes orderly growth by dividing property into zones. Within those zones, the character and location of buildings and grounds are regulated. Some objectives of these regulations include the following:

1. Stabilization and conservation of property values
2. Protection of streets, schools, and utilities from overloading
3. Provide locations for each land use which are properly related to traffic, utilities, and other land uses
4. Separating conflicting types of traffic by the proper relation of land uses

Under subdivision control, the way the subdivision is designed (roads, utilities, building lots) is controlled. The zoning control being considered will regulate the actual use of the land.

Under Arkansas State Statutes, Fort Smith may extend its zoning jurisdiction two miles outside of its city limits. Because of the location of the Cities of Bonanza and Greenwood, Fort Smith will not be extending zoning jurisdiction the full two miles. Instead, the limit will stop where the Greenwood and Bonanza districts begin. Cities also have the right to extend subdivision control within five miles of their city limits. The cities of Fort Smith, Greenwood, and Bonanza have already extended this control to a certain extent.

The zoning of a property indicates:

• The uses permitted on your property
• Where buildings and other structures may be located
• How large a building can be
• Other pertinent land use regulations adopted by the City

Zoning restrictions can be found in the Unified Development Ordinance.

The following map shows the zoning of each property inside Fort Smith city limits. Search your property’s address to find your current zoning.

No, this is about zoning and regulating land uses near the City, not about annexation.

No, this will not have any effect on property taxes, sales tax, utility franchise tax, or any other type of tax.

This does not affect your current land uses. You can continue any land use that currently exists, such as residential or commercial activities.

No. However, any changes in property uses (for example, from residential to commercial) will require the property owner to apply for a zoning change. This process will include notice to surrounding property owners and a public hearing before the Fort Smith Planning Commission and Board of City Directors. The zone change request will be approved or denied based on the merits of the request.

A significantly detrimental land use could move next to your property, which could affect your standard of living and your property values. For example, a heavy commercial, industrial, or multi-family project being placed next to your property. Currently, there are no governmental entities or regulations to prevent this from happening.

A Home Occupation permit may be allowed with limitations by Planning Commission approval. Please read the City’s Regulations for a Home Occupation and contact the Planning Division if you need further assistance.

The City of Fort Smith requires every business to have a license. The Planning Division must approve the zoning before a business inside the city limits can open for operation. This process is to verify that the business is allowed to operate in a specific zoning district. Following the zoning check, the location will be subject to certain life and safety code inspections. Please contact the Planning Division if you require further assistance.

No, zoning does not alter school district boundaries.

No, building permits will not be required. However, in order to administer the zoning uses, a land use permit will be required.

Sebastian County has no zoning or land use controls. Arkansas law delegates zoning and subdivision control to cities such as Fort Smith, Greenwood, and Bonanza.

The City of Fort Smith will help to regulate land use in the extra territorial zoning district, which will help to protect and maintain property values. Currently, no entity or persons assist with the regulation of land uses in the unincorporated areas of the County. No other City services such as police or fire will be provided.

No, the only City Ordinances that would be enforced are those that regulate land use and controls.

The Planning Division posts agendas and meeting minutes for the Planning Commission on the Planning Commission website. If you cannot find a specific meeting, please contact the Planning Division for assistance.

For more information, contact the City of Fort Smith Planning Department at 479-784-2216 or by emailing planning@fortsmithar.gov.