PENDER COUNTY — Growth in Pender County is showing no sign of slowing, and now local leaders are questioning whether the pace is sustainable. Between 2020 and 2024, the county approved more than 5,000 single-family homes—the second-fastest growth rate in North Carolina. Since 2010, the population has jumped over 25%.
That surge is prompting concern from residents who say schools, roads and utilities are being stretched thin. During a recent meeting, county commissioners explored the legal mechanics of a temporary development moratorium—a measure that would pause new residential projects until infrastructure catches up. Under state law, such a pause is possible, but only if the county can demonstrate an urgent need.
The idea has support among residents who’ve organized petitions (with more than 1,000 signatures) and spoken out against several large projects already in the works. Among their concerns: schools that are already over capacity, storm-water systems struggling, and traffic clogs as new subdivisions pop up.
One major project—350 homes in the Piper’s Tract area—has become a flashpoint. Because it’s an “allowed-by-right” development, the county doesn’t have discretionary review, which frustrates neighbors who say decisions should not bypass public input.
At the Oct. 20 meeting, commissioners asked the county attorney to research a draft moratorium ordinance for the Nov. 4 session. The attorney cautioned that any ordinance must clearly define the timeline and procedures for addressing the infrastructure shortfalls. Without those details, a moratorium could face legal challenges or be struck down in court.
In short: Pender County is being looked at as a case study in fast-paced growth. Is this vibrant region nearing its tipping point—or just preparing for a new chapter in its story?
At Just For Buyers Realty, we stay on top of changes like this in our local markets. If you’re curious how growth and development trends might affect your next move in the Cape Fear area, reach out—we’ll help you make sense of it.