Arizona board pushes for height limit increases and middle housing options

The Maricopa County Stakeholder Meeting held on June 6, 2025, focused on the upcoming updates to the zoning ordinance, with a particular emphasis on housing regulations and regulatory reform. The meeting was driven by the Board of Supervisors and aimed to address the changing political landscape regarding housing in Arizona.

One of the primary topics discussed was the potential increase in height limits for certain building types. Participants noted that raising the height limit from 30 feet to 35 feet could accommodate higher ceiling heights, which would benefit customers and align with market standards.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing legislative efforts in Arizona aimed at regulatory reform. Over the past few years, various bills have been introduced, focusing on issues such as accessory dwelling units and starter homes. The local government expressed its intention to take control of housing regulations, asserting that they can effectively manage these changes within their own zoning code rather than simply reacting to state mandates.

Another significant point of discussion was the concept of "middle housing," which includes smaller lot developments such as duplexes, triplexes, and townhomes. The current zoning codes in Maricopa County do not adequately support these types of housing, often requiring a full rezone for their implementation. The meeting encouraged community input on successful middle housing models from other municipalities, as the county seeks to enhance its zoning regulations to better accommodate diverse housing options.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency of updating the zoning ordinance to reflect current housing needs and regulatory trends. Stakeholders were invited to contribute ideas and share successful practices from other areas to inform the ongoing reform efforts in Maricopa County.