Phoenix, December 11, 2025
Maricopa County has approved a significant update to its zoning ordinance to accelerate housing development. The new regulations simplify the approval process, permit multiple accessory dwelling units, and consolidate various land use categories to better meet the needs of the community. This reform aims to address the rising demand for affordable housing in the region by reducing bureaucratic obstacles for developers.
Maricopa County Approves Streamlined Zoning Ordinance to Accelerate Housing Development
PHOENIX, Arizona – On December 10, 2025, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a comprehensive overhaul of the county’s zoning ordinance, aiming to expedite housing development and modernize regulations. The updated ordinance eliminates 53 pages and nearly 15,000 words from the previous code, simplifying the approval process for housing projects.
Key Changes in the New Zoning Ordinance
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): The ordinance now permits multiple ADUs on a single-family residence, aligning with state legislation.
- Short-Term Rentals: Regulations for short-term rentals have been updated to balance property rights with neighborhood quality of life.
- Multi-Family Residential Projects: The requirement for a “plan of development” for smaller multi-family projects has been removed, allowing direct progression to building permits.
- Emerging Technologies: Definitions have been clarified and expanded to include technologies like Battery Energy Storage Systems and Data Centers.
- Land Use Categories: The ordinance consolidates 201 land use categories into 137, streamlining zoning classifications.
Background and Community Involvement
The initiative to modernize the zoning ordinance began in May 2025, with the goal of making the code more user-friendly and adaptable to current development needs. Over 160 stakeholders participated in meetings, and hundreds of community members provided feedback through public forums and online surveys. This collaborative approach ensured that the revised ordinance reflects the diverse needs of Maricopa County residents and developers.
Implications for Housing Development
The streamlined zoning regulations are expected to accelerate housing development by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and providing clearer guidelines for developers. By facilitating the construction of diverse housing options, the county aims to address the growing demand for affordable and accessible housing in the region.
Next Steps
The updated Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance is now in effect. Developers and residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new regulations to ensure compliance and take advantage of the enhanced opportunities for housing development. For detailed information, the updated ordinance is available on the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance?
The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance is the primary regulatory framework for development projects in the county, establishing zoning districts and regulating their uses.
What are the key changes in the updated zoning ordinance?
The updated ordinance allows multiple accessory dwelling units on a single-family residence, permits short-term rentals with certain limitations, removes the “plan of development” requirement for smaller multi-family projects, clarifies definitions for emerging technologies, and consolidates land use categories.
How will the new zoning ordinance impact housing development?
The streamlined regulations are expected to expedite housing development by reducing bureaucratic obstacles and providing clearer guidelines for developers, thereby addressing the growing demand for affordable and accessible housing in Maricopa County.
Where can I find more information about the updated zoning ordinance?
The updated Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance is available on the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department’s website.
Key Features of the Updated Zoning Ordinance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) | Allows multiple ADUs on a single-family residence, in line with state law. |
| Short-Term Rentals | Regulates short-term rentals to balance property rights with neighborhood quality of life. |
| Multi-Family Projects | Removes the “plan of development” requirement for smaller multi-family projects, streamlining the approval process. |
| Emerging Technologies | Clarifies definitions for technologies like Battery Energy Storage Systems and Data Centers. |
| Land Use Categories | Consolidates 201 land use categories into 137, simplifying zoning classifications. |
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