Text Amendments

The Purpose and Process of Text Amenments:

Amending the Zoning Ordinance:

Text amendments are the process used to modify the Phoenix Zoning Ordinance, which outlines the rules and regulations for land use and development within the city. 

Initiation:

Requests for text amendments can be initiated by the City Planning Commission or a property owner in the area to be affected by the amendment. 

Public Process:

The amendment process involves public hearings and the publication of the proposed changes in a newspaper of general circulation. 

Council Approval:

The Phoenix City Council must approve the amendment before it can take effect. 

Examples:

• Parking Requirements: Text amendments have been used to modify parking requirements for multi-family housing, often reducing the number of required spaces.
• Group Homes/Community Residences: Amendments have been made to clarify regulations for group homes and community residences, including use permits and spacing requirements.
• ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units): Text amendments have been used to align city regulations with new state regulations regarding ADUs. 
• Data Centers: Amendments have been proposed to allow data centers in specific zoning districts with special permits. 
• Height Restrictions: Amendments can also adjust height limits in certain areas, often with the goal of encouraging high-density development near transit stations.

2025