Passed by the Highfill City Council: October 13, 2026
On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, the Highfill City Council passed Ordinance 2026-18, updating the City’s Electrical Code to align with statewide standards based on the 2026 National Electrical Code (NFPA 70). This update ensures that electrical work performed within Highfill meets the most current safety and performance requirements.
At a Glance: What This Ordinance Does
• Updates the City’s Electrical Code from the 2020 Arkansas Electrical Code to the 2026 State Electrical Code, adopted by the Arkansas Board of Electrical Examiners.
• Adopts by reference the 2026 National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) with Arkansas amendments, exceptions, and modifications.
• Ensures local electrical standards remain consistent with state law and current industry practices.
• Declares an emergency, allowing the ordinance to take immediate effect for public safety.
Summary for Residents
The updated Electrical Code ensures that all electrical work in Highfill follows the latest national and state standards. This helps protect residents, contractors, and property owners by improving safety, reducing risk, and supporting modern infrastructure needs. Copies of the newly adopted code and related documents are available for public inspection through the City Recorder’s office.
Detailed Overview
Why the Code Was Updated
The Arkansas Board of Electrical Examiners adopted the 2026 National Electrical Code with state-specific amendments, effective September 3, 2026. Because cities must align with state requirements, the City amended Municipal Code Section 11.16.01 to remain compliant.
What the Ordinance Changes
Ordinance 2026-18: • Formally adopts the state electrical code by reference, including the 2026 NEC and Arkansas modifications. • Updates Highfill’s Municipal Code to reflect the adoption. • Repeals conflicting ordinances to maintain consistency. • Requires the City Recorder to maintain access to all referenced code documents for public review.
Public Access and Transparency
Before adoption, the City made the proposed code and related documents available for review and notified the public as required by state law. These materials continue to be accessible for inspection.
Emergency Clause
Because the updated standards contain substantial changes and are necessary for public safety, the ordinance includes an emergency declaration, putting it into immediate effect upon passage.
View Ordinance 2026-18 [PDF]