Arkansas Mobile Home Park Closure: Relocation Rights

If you rent a lot or space for your mobile or manufactured home in Arkansas, the prospect of your park closing can be overwhelming. Understanding what happens when a park closes, including your relocation rights and any available assistance, can help you plan next steps and protect your home investment. This guide explains the legal process for park closures, what assistance may exist, and what to do if you receive a closure notice in Arkansas.

What Happens When a Mobile Home Park Closes in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, there are limited statewide protections or relocation assistance specifically for mobile home park residents facing park closure. Park owners are, however, required to provide proper notice before asking residents to move their homes.

Notice Requirements for Park Closures

Arkansas law requires landlords to give advance written notice before terminating any month-to-month lease, including those for mobile home lots. Typically, a minimum of 30 days' written notice is required unless other terms are specified in your lease. This applies if a park is being sold, converted, or closed.

• Always check your lease or rental agreement for specific timeframes and requirements.
• Written notices should include the move-out deadline and any procedures related to the closure.
• If you rent month-to-month, the general rule is at least 30 days' written notice.^[1]

Is Relocation Assistance Provided?

Arkansas state law does not require park owners to provide relocation assistance, moving costs, or compensation if the park closes, unlike some other states. However, federal resources may be available if the closure is connected to government activity (such as eminent domain or highway construction). If you believe your situation involves a public agency, ask about eligibility under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act.

For typical private park closures, Arkansas renters are responsible for their own moving and relocation costs, unless your lease states otherwise or the landlord offers voluntary assistance.

How to Prepare If You Receive a Closure Notice

Although Arkansas law is limited, there are practical steps you can take:

• Confirm Notice: Make sure you've received written notice, and keep a copy for your records.
• Review Your Lease: Check for any special terms about park closure, buyout offers, or moving assistance.
• Research Local Ordinances: Some cities may have additional protections or requirements for mobile home park closures.
• Inspect Your Home's Condition: Before moving, take photos and note any damage to avoid security deposit disputes.
• Ask About Assistance: Inquire if the park owner offers voluntary incentives, such as moving cost stipends or early-move bonuses.
• Contact Local Legal Aid: Legal aid organizations can help review your notice and lease, or direct you to resources.

Where to Get Help: Official Forms and Legal Recourse

While Arkansas does not have a state tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes, renters can use the court system for disagreements (such as contesting improper notices or seeking damages).

• Notice of Termination Form:
  • When Used: Landlords must provide this written notice to end a rental, including for park closure. Renters may also use a similar document if you wish to terminate your lease.
  • Where to Find: There is no single mandatory state form but written notice in letter format is required. Legal aid offices provide templates.
  • Renter Example: If you receive a 30-day written notice to vacate your lot, the landlord should document this clearly, with move-out dates and signatures recommended.
• Court Complaint Forms:
  • When Used: If you believe your notice of park closure is improper or your rights have been violated, you may file a complaint in your local District Court.
  • Where to Find: Forms are available at the Arkansas District Courts website or your local courthouse.
  • Renter Example: A resident who believes they weren't given proper notice might seek help via a "Complaint for Injunction" or similar filing through the court.

For more information or to start a legal action, visit the Arkansas Judiciary online portal.

Relevant Arkansas Tenancy Legislation

Arkansas law governing landlord and tenant relationships is found in the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007. Mobile homes receive some specific references, but general provisions about notice and tenancy termination apply.^[1]

Key takeaway: In Arkansas, mobile home park residents are usually responsible for their own moving costs if the park closes, unless they qualify for rare federal assistance programs. Landlords are required to provide written notice per the state’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.

FAQs for Arkansas Mobile Home Park Residents

1. How much notice am I entitled to if my mobile home park is closing in Arkansas?
   Generally, you must receive at least 30 days’ written notice before being required to move, though your lease may specify a longer timeframe.
2. Does Arkansas law guarantee that the landlord pays to move my mobile home?
   No. Arkansas does not require landlords to pay relocation costs when a park closes, unless your lease specifically provides for it.
3. What should I do first if I get a closure notice?
   Immediately review the notice and your lease, document all communications, and reach out to local legal aid for free advice if needed.
4. Can I challenge a park closure notice if it seems improper?
   Yes. If you believe the notice didn't follow the law or your lease, you may contest it in your local District Court.
5. Are forms available for Arkansas renters facing park closure?
   There is no required statewide form, but legal aid organizations can provide templates for notice or court complaints.

Conclusion: What Arkansas Mobile Home Renters Need to Know

• You should receive at least 30 days’ written notice before a park closure, unless your lease says otherwise.
• Arkansas law does not require landlords to provide relocation assistance or money for moving your home.
• If you get a closure notice, document everything and seek legal help to understand your lease and options.

While the law does not provide much protection, being aware, organized, and proactive can help you manage the transition with fewer surprises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Judiciary – Find your local District Court and court forms
• Arkansas Legal Services – Free legal guidance for housing and landlord-tenant issues
• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 – Understand your legal rights as a renter
• HUD: Arkansas Tenant Rights – Federal help for renters and manufactured housing residents

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1. See Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 (Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17-701, et seq.)

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