Arkansas Eviction Notice Overview
Arkansas stands apart from nearly every other state in the country when it comes to eviction law. The state never adopted the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) and has no implied warranty of habitability for residential rentals. Arkansas eviction law is governed primarily by the unlawful detainer statute (Ark. Code §18-60-301 through §18-60-310) and the criminal failure to vacate statute (Ark. Code §18-16-101), which makes it a criminal offense for a tenant to remain after receiving a 10-day written notice.
Because Arkansas has no statutory cure periodfor lease violations, a landlord can proceed to eviction after giving just 3 days' notice under the unlawful detainer statute. A 14-day notice in Arkansas is therefore a voluntary courtesy, not a legal requirement. However, landlords with federally subsidized properties (Section 8, LIHTC) must follow federal notice requirements, which may mandate longer notice periods. Additionally, some lease agreements contractually require a cure period, in which case the landlord must honor the agreed-upon terms.
3 Days
Statutory minimum
$65
District Court filing
No Cure
Right required
2–3 Wks
Total process
Why Arkansas Has No Cure Period
Arkansas is one of only a handful of states that never adopted the URLTA, which is the model legislation that establishes cure periods in most other states. The Arkansas legislature has historically favored landlord property rights over tenant protections, resulting in one of the most permissive eviction frameworks in the country.
Arkansas Notice Periods
3-day unlawful detainer: Lease violations, non-payment, holdover (Ark. Code §18-60-304)
10-day criminal failure to vacate: Written demand to leave (Ark. Code §18-16-101)
30-day termination: Month-to-month tenancy without cause
14-day notice: Not required by statute but may be used voluntarily or per lease terms
The criminal failure to vacate statute (§18-16-101) is particularly notable because it allows a tenant to be criminally charged (Class C misdemeanor) for remaining on the premises after receiving a 10-day written notice. This statute has faced constitutional challenges but remains in effect. The ACLU and Arkansas legal aid organizations have criticized this law as criminalizing poverty.
Arkansas Unlawful Detainer Notice Requirements
While Arkansas's notice requirements are less detailed than URLTA states, the notice must still meet certain standards to be enforceable in District Court.
- Written Format: The notice must be in writing; oral notices are not sufficient for court proceedings
- Demand to Vacate: Clear statement demanding that the tenant vacate the premises
- Reason for Eviction: State the grounds (lease violation, non-payment, holdover, etc.)
- Timeframe: Specify the number of days the tenant has to vacate (minimum 3 for unlawful detainer)
- Property Address: Full address of the rental property
- Landlord Signature: Signed and dated by the landlord or authorized agent
Serving the Notice in Arkansas
Arkansas law permits several service methods for eviction notices. Proper documentation of service is essential because the District Court will require proof that the tenant received the notice.
Personal Delivery
Hand the notice directly to the tenant. Bring a witness who can later testify in court. The notice period starts on the date of delivery.
Post on Premises
Affix the notice to the front door of the rental unit if the tenant cannot be found. Take a timestamped photograph. Also mail a copy for additional documentation.
Certified Mail
Send via USPS certified mail with return receipt requested. The return receipt proves delivery. Add mail transit time to the notice period calculation.
Arkansas Eviction Timeline
Arkansas has one of the fastest eviction processes in the country, typically completing within 2–3 weeks for uncontested cases.
Arkansas Eviction Costs
Arkansas eviction costs are among the lowest in the nation, reflecting the streamlined process.
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| District Court Filing Fee | $65 |
| Sheriff Service of Process | $25 – $40 |
| Writ of Possession | $40 – $75 |
| Attorney Fees (if hired) | $300 – $800 |
Sample Arkansas Eviction Notice
Below is a preview of an Arkansas-compliant eviction notice for lease violations.
NOTICE TO VACATE
STATE OF ARKANSAS
Pursuant to Ark. Code §18-60-304
TO (TENANT):
Name: [Tenant Name]
Address: [Arkansas Property Address]
GROUNDS FOR EVICTION:
[Description of violation or grounds]
DEMAND
You are hereby demanded to vacate the above premises within fourteen (14) days of this notice. If you fail to vacate, legal proceedings will be initiated.