Blocked crossing laws
How long can a train block a crossing in Arkansas?
Arkansas law limits a train to 10 minutes blocking a road crossing, under Ark. Code Ann. § 23-12-1007(b). We found no Arkansas court ruling on this limit. Courts elsewhere have held similar limits preempted by federal law, so it may not be enforceable against railroads. Checked 16 October 2026.
The rule
Arkansas law says a railroad may not let a standing train block a public road, street or other railroad crossing for more than 10 minutes, unless the State Highway Commission sets a different rule.
Exceptions and local rules
The State Highway Commission has exclusive jurisdiction and may, after notice and hearing, adopt orders or rules on train movement and permissible standing time that replace the 10-minute default. The limit applies to standing trains only. Before asking for a penalty, a state, county or city government must send the railroad a written complaint by certified mail; the railroad has 45 days to answer, then the commission holds a hearing and can fine 200 to 500 dollars per occurrence (23-12-1008).
Provided, unless and until the commission by order or rule provides otherwise, it is unlawful for any corporation, company, or person owning or operating any railroad trains in the state to permit a standing train to obstruct any public highway, road, street, or other railroad crossing for more than ten (10) minutes.
Does federal law override it?
No federal law sets a time limit for a train blocking a crossing. Federal law does control how railroads run trains, and courts have used it to set aside state time limits.
When a court holds a state limit preempted, the state cannot enforce it against the railroad. A limit no court has ruled on is still on the books, but railroads may challenge it the same way.
Where to report a blocked crossing
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) takes blocked crossing reports from the public for every state.
Report to the FRA blocked crossing reporter
We found no Arkansas state page for blocked crossing reports, so the FRA reporter is the place to report.
If a train is blocking the crossing right now, call the railroad on the number shown on the blue sign at the crossing.
Crossings in Arkansas
Arkansas has 2,455 public crossings in the FRA crossing inventory.