💎 Arkansas Eviction Notice Laws
Complete Landlord Guide to Arkansas Eviction Requirements
📋 Updated for • AR Code Title 18Last reviewed: January
Arkansas has some of the most landlord-favorable eviction laws in the nation. A 3-day notice for non-payment and the unique “failure to vacate” criminal statute make Arkansas efficient for landlords. This guide covers requirements under Arkansas Code Title 18.
📑 Table of Contents
📝 Arkansas Eviction Notice Types
3-Day Notice to Pay or Quit
AR Code § 18-60-304
For non-payment of rent, Arkansas requires only a 3-day notice—one of the shortest in the nation. The tenant must pay all rent owed or vacate within 3 days.
Notice Requirements:
- ✅ Must be in writing
- ✅ Must demand payment or possession
- ✅ Must give 3 full days (not counting day of service)
14-Day Notice (Lease Violation)
AR Code § 18-17-701
For lease violations other than non-payment, Arkansas requires a 14-day notice to cure or vacate.
📄 Get Free Lease Violation Notice30-Day Notice (Month-to-Month)
AR Code § 18-17-704
To terminate a month-to-month tenancy, Arkansas requires 30 days’ written notice before the end of the rental period.
📄 Get Free 30-Day Notice FormImmediate / 10-Day Notice (Criminal Activity)
AR Code § 18-16-101
For serious violations:
- 🔴 Immediate: Criminal activity on premises
- 🔴 10 days: Material health or safety violations
Arkansas has a unique criminal statute (AR Code § 18-16-101) where failure to vacate after proper notice can be a criminal misdemeanor. This gives Arkansas landlords additional leverage, though the civil unlawful detainer process is still the primary method.
⚖️ Arkansas Unlawful Detainer Process
Arkansas evictions are filed as “Unlawful Detainer” actions in District Court (for claims up to $25,000) or Circuit Court.
Serve Notice
Serve the appropriate notice and wait for the notice period to expire.
File Unlawful Detainer
File the unlawful detainer complaint in District Court. Filing fees are approximately $65-$165.
Service on Tenant
Tenant must be served with summons at least 5 days before the hearing.
Court Hearing
Hearing typically scheduled within 5-15 days of filing.
Judgment
If you win, the court enters judgment for possession.
Writ of Possession
Request a writ of possession. Sheriff executes the eviction, typically within 10 days.
⏱️ Arkansas Eviction Timeline
| Stage | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 📝 Notice period | 3-30 days | 3 days for non-payment |
| 📋 File complaint | 1-2 days | After notice expires |
| 📬 Service on tenant | 5+ days | Before hearing |
| ⚖️ Court hearing | 5-15 days | From filing |
| 🚔 Writ execution | 5-10 days | After judgment |
Total Timeline: Arkansas evictions can be completed in as little as 2-4 weeks for uncontested non-payment cases—one of the fastest in the nation.
🛡️ Common Tenant Defenses in Arkansas
Improper Notice
Notice wasn’t properly served or didn’t provide the required time period.
Rent Was Paid
Tenant can prove rent was paid or landlord accepted rent after notice.
Retaliation
Eviction is in retaliation for tenant exercising legal rights.
💰 Arkansas Security Deposit Rules
Arkansas has specific requirements under AR Code § 18-16-304:
- Maximum Amount: 2 months’ rent
- Interest: Not required
- Return Timeline: 60 days after tenant vacates
- Itemized Statement: Required if any deductions are made
- Penalty: Landlord may forfeit rights to deposit if not returned properly
❓ Arkansas Eviction FAQ
🔍 Avoid Evictions with Better Tenant Screening
Comprehensive tenant screening helps you find reliable tenants and avoid costly evictions.
📚 Related Arkansas Landlord Resources
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Arkansas eviction laws and is not legal advice. Arkansas landlord-tenant law is governed by AR Code Title 18 and may be amended. This guide reflects requirements as of . Always consult with a qualified Arkansas attorney before proceeding with an eviction.
