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West Memphis holds second reading of ADU ordinance to comply with Act 313 of 2025
Summary
Council held a second reading of an ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on single‑family lots to comply with Act 313 of 2025 and added electrical-standards language; staff said the measure will return for final consideration in two weeks.
The West Memphis City Council held a second reading of an ordinance to establish clear standards for accessory dwelling units, a change staff said is meant to comply with Act 313 of 2025 requiring municipalities to allow at least one ADU on single‑family residential lots.
Miss Felix said the ordinance would allow owners to build a dwelling in the rear yard that can be occupied by a family member or leased to a non‑family renter. “This bill basically allows accessory dwelling units on primary residential lots,” Miss Felix said. She told councilors the draft had been updated to add electrical standards that the state statute did not specify and that utilities had reviewed and supported the new language.
Councilors asked for clarity about where ADUs would be allowed; staff said deed restrictions, homeowners associations and private covenants can continue to prohibit ADUs on specific properties and that ADUs must meet the International Building Code and related local standards. The ordinance was read for a second time and scheduled to return at the council’s next meeting in two weeks for final action. No final vote was recorded at this session.
The ordinance and staff comments referenced Act 313 of 2025 and the council was advised to consult with the Arkansas Municipal League and city planning staff if members wanted an interim work session before the final reading.
