Construction activities in Pulaski County paused due to moratorium
Pulaski County, August 14, 2025
Pulaski County has enacted a six-month moratorium on new construction in specified areas outside Little Rock and North Little Rock. This decision, taken by the Pulaski County Quorum Court, is a response to recent legislative changes that have altered the regulatory landscape for construction in Arkansas. The aim is to ensure that future projects align with local regulations while providing time for the development of new guidelines that balance interests of developers, residents, and land use.
PULASKI COUNTY, AR – In a significant move affecting development in central Arkansas, Pulaski County has enacted a six-month moratorium on new construction in areas bordering Little Rock and North Little Rock. This decision, made by the Pulaski County Quorum Court, intends to address the complications arising after recent legislative changes.
The moratorium, which went into effect on a Tuesday, is a response to the passing of Act 314. This legislation has removed the power of cities to regulate construction within what is known as their extraterritorial jurisdictions (ETJs), which previously allowed cities like Little Rock and North Little Rock to oversee development within a buffer zone of up to three miles outside their borders.
With the implementation of Act 314, cities can no longer impose restrictions on the development of properties that are located just outside their limits. This change has raised significant concerns among city officials, particularly regarding the potential for incompatible developments emerging in neighboring regions that could adversely affect communities.
North Little Rock officials have been particularly vocal about their apprehensions. Concerns include the possibility of developments that do not align with existing city plans, which could lead to disordered growth and property devaluation. These issues are compounded by the unexpected appearance of billboards in areas previously regulated under ETJ rules, prompting further scrutiny.
As a response to these complications, Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde has emphasized the importance of establishing county-level regulations that can provide structure and guidelines for development. The county moratorium on new construction will remain in place until effective new zoning policies can be established, allowing officials time to plan adequately and solicit feedback from local residents and planning boards.
The moratorium serves to provide a buffer period where the risks associated with unregulated development can be addressed—protecting both residents and property investments in the area. Without the previously established city regulations to guide development, Judge Hyde noted the heightened risks involved for county residents.
State Representative Justin Gonzales, the sponsor of Act 314, has framed the legislation as a measure to uphold property rights for landowners living adjacent to city limits. He highlighted the principle that residents of the county should not be subjected to regulations from city officials for whom they cannot vote.
The local government aims to utilize this six-month period not only to create a framework for future construction but also to enhance engagement with the community, ensuring that the voices of residents play a critical role in the planning process.
As this situation develops, both city and county officials will work together to define new policies meant to enhance structure in areas at risk of unchecked growth. This collaborative approach hopes to balance development needs while still maintaining the quality of life for all residents in Pulaski County.
The moratorium aims to prevent new construction that could conflict with existing municipal regulations while new county regulations are developed.
The moratorium was prompted by the passing of Act 314, which stripped municipalities of their ability to regulate development in their extraterritorial jurisdictions.
The moratorium will remain in effect for six months from the date of enactment.
ETJs are areas outside a city’s limits that are typically subject to the city’s zoning and construction regulations.
Local officials are concerned about the possibility of incompatible developments emerging in areas that lack regulatory oversight, which could negatively impact existing communities.
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