Arkansas § 14-56-101 - Liability for excavations.
Full text of Arkansas Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 14-56-101 — Liability for excavations., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-56-101. Liability for excavations.
If the owner or possessor of any lot or land in any city or incorporated town in this state shall dig or cause to be dug any cellar, pit, vault, or excavation to a greater depth than twelve feet (12') below the curb of the street on which the lot or land abuts, or, if there is no curb, below the surface of the adjoining lots, and shall, by this excavation, cause any damage to any wall, house, or other building upon the lots, adjoining thereto, the owner or possessor shall be liable, in a civil action, to the party injured, to the full amount of the damage. However, the owner or possessor may dig or cause to be dug any cellar, pit, or excavation, to the full depth of any foundation walls of any building upon the adjoining lots, and to the full depth of twelve feet (12') below the grade of the street whereon the lot abuts, established by the corporation authority, without incurring the liability prescribed by this section.
Source: official Arkansas text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas § 14-56-101
What does Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 14-56-101 cover?
Section 14-56-101 ("Liability for excavations.") is part of the Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Arkansas. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arkansas § 14-56-101?
A common citation format is "Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 14-56-101" (Arkansas). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arkansas law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arkansas official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arkansas attorney.
How does Arkansas § 14-56-101 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arkansas can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arkansas.