The Future of Our
Communities
is Taking Shape
Get Involved. Learn the Process.
How do cities take shape? What does it take for a building to get built?
What are the key governing documents and tools which establish direction, guidelines, regulations, and process for shaping development?
General Plan
- Arizona State Statute (ARS § 9-461.05A) (ARS § 9-461.06) requires cities to adopt a comprehensive, long-range General Plan which guides the physical development of the city over a 10-year or more time span.
- General Plans address character and design, land use, open space, business and economics, community services, housing, transportation, infrastructure, growth, and the natural environment.
- Plans must be adopted or readopted every 10-years.
- Approval/Ratified by Public Vote
Character Area Plans
- Community area-based plans provide policy and direction for certain areas of the city or town.
- Approved by City/Town Council Vote
Ordinances, Regulations, Codes and Policies
- Policies, rules, and regulations give specific direction for compliance and enforcement of development and land use in a community.
- Building Codes
- Zoning / Land-Use
- Design Standards & Policies
- Permits
- Approved by respective County Board of Supervisors or City/Town Council Vote
I care about my community; how can I get involved in the process?
To further understand the development process, let's divide it up into digestible sections and do a deeper dive.
Arizona Development
Building in Arizona
Codes-Compliance-Community
Zoning Requirements
Scottsdale Development
Scottsdale General Plan 2035
