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Little Rock staff to expand outreach after community questions about new ADU law
Summary
Planning staff reported on outreach after the state's new ADU law took effect, noting one application filed, requests for bilingual materials, emergency-access concerns for detached units, and plans for continued education and neighborhood engagement.
City planning staff told the Board of Directors on Sept. 2 they have begun outreach and education after a new state ADU (accessory dwelling unit) law took effect, and they will continue providing materials, bilingual documents and neighborhood outreach.
Marissa Jordan, planning department staff, said the city launched a public survey in July with roughly 250–300 participants, held two community focus groups and hosted a larger meeting Aug. 25 at UALR’s Reynolds Center that drew 17 attendees. "Ninety‑three percent of those were resident homeowners, which represented 12 neighborhoods," Jordan said. Attendees raised concerns about emergency response access for detached ADUs and suggested using preapproved designs or permitting checklists to streamline permitting.
Jordan told the board the department has received one ADU application since the law took effect and "several calls" asking for clarification. She said staff can attend neighborhood association meetings and that the city will provide ordinance education and bilingual (Spanish) materials.
Director Ward asked whether the Board could receive monthly reporting — similar to reports provided for short‑term rentals — on the number of ADU applications and pending matters. Jordan acknowledged the request; she confirmed the board currently has a Board of Adjustment in place to hear variances and noted one Real Estate Commission representative’s term had expired but was serving until replaced.
Staff also clarified that prior variances granted for garages converted to other uses would not automatically carry over if owners now sought to use the structure as an ADU; such situations would go before the Board of Adjustment for a determination.
No ordinance amendments were adopted at the meeting; the item was a report and a request for continued outreach and monthly tracking of ADU activity. Jordan said education "is a part of our mission, and so we will continue that."
