No, squatted trucks—vehicles with lifted rear suspensions—are illegal in Arkansas under state vehicle modification laws. The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) enforces standards prohibiting alterations that compromise safety or visibility, and local ordinances in cities like Little Rock and Fort Smith further restrict such modifications. Violations may result in citations or impoundment under Act 1001 of 2023, which tightened compliance for non-commercial vehicles.
Key Regulations for Squatted Trucks in Arkansas
- Height Restrictions: Arkansas Code §27-35-104 mandates that no part of a vehicle’s rear suspension may exceed 22 inches above the ground when measured from the lowest point of the tire tread. Exceeding this violates state safety standards.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities like Little Rock and Fayetteville enforce additional bans via traffic codes, with penalties including fines up to $250 for first offenses. The Arkansas Municipal League (AML) has endorsed these measures to curb unsafe driving conditions.
- Commercial Vehicle Exemptions: Only vehicles with commercial licenses (e.g., dump trucks) may legally modify suspensions for load-bearing purposes, per AHTD guidelines updated in 2026. Non-commercial vehicles face immediate enforcement.
Enforcement falls under the purview of the Arkansas State Police and local law enforcement, with recent 2026 directives prioritizing roadside inspections. Owners risk vehicle impoundment if modifications are deemed hazardous. For compliance, consult the AHTD’s Vehicle Equipment Standards Manual or local municipal codes.