Arkansas follows the riparian doctrine for water rights, meaning landowners adjacent to water sources have reasonable use rights without broad ownership claims over rainwater itself. Unlike some western states, rainwater harvesting faces no blanket bans and is widely encouraged for conservation.​
Rainwater Harvesting Rules
Homeowners can freely collect rainwater in barrels for gardening or domestic outdoor use with no permits required, as Arkansas lacks prior appropriation restrictions. For indoor non-potable systems (e.g., flushing toilets), setups must be engineered by a licensed Arkansas professional, include cross-connection safeguards, and comply with state plumbing codes. Potable use needs local health approvals to meet drinking water standards.
Broader Water Rights
Riparian owners may divert up to one acre-foot (325,900 gallons) annually without registration, but larger uses require Arkansas Natural Resources Commission filing to ensure sustainability. Critical aquifer areas offer conservation incentives, prioritizing local needs over interstate transfers. These rules balance private use with public resources amid growing drought concerns.​
