HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDApacket__09-12-22_0434_380
NOTICE OF MEETING
REGULAR MEETING
FOUNTAIN HILLS PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
Chairman Peter Gray
Vice Chairman Scott Schlossberg
Commissioner Patrick Dapaah
Commissioner Clayton Corey
Commissioner Susan Dempster
Commissioner Dan Kovacevic
Commissioner Rick Watts, Jr.
TIME:6:00 P.M. – REGULAR MEETING
WHEN:MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2022
WHERE:FOUNTAIN HILLS COUNCIL CHAMBERS
16705 E. AVENUE OF THE FOUNTAINS, FOUNTAIN HILLS, AZ
Commissioners of the Town of Fountain Hills will attend either in person or by telephone conference call; a quorum of the
Town’s Council, various Commission, Committee or Board members may be in attendance at the Commission meeting.
Notice is hereby given that pursuant to A.R.S. §1-602.A.9, subject to certain specified statutory exceptions, parents have a
right to consent before the State or any of its political subdivisions make a video or audio recording of a minor child. Meetings
of the Commission are audio and/or video recorded and, as a result, proceedings in which children are present may be subject
to such recording. Parents, in order to exercise their rights may either file written consent with the Town Clerk to such
recording, or take personal action to ensure that their child or children are not present when a recording may be made. If a
child is present at the time a recording is made, the Town will assume that the rights afforded parents pursuant to A.R.S.
§1-602.A.9 have been waived.
REQUEST TO COMMENT
The public is welcome to participate in Commission meetings.
TO SPEAK TO AN AGENDA ITEM, please complete a Request to Comment card, located in the back of
the Council Chambers, and hand it to the Executive Assistant prior to discussion of that item, if
possible. Include the agenda item on which you wish to comment. Speakers will be allowed three
contiguous minutes to address the Commission. Verbal comments should be directed through the
Presiding Officer and not to individual Commissioners.
TO COMMENT ON AN AGENDA ITEM IN WRITING ONLY, please complete a Request to Comment card,
indicating it is a written comment, and check the box on whether you are FOR or AGAINST and agenda
item, and hand it to the Executive Assistant prior to discussion, if possible.
REGULAR MEETING
1.CALL TO ORDER, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE – Chairman Gray
2.ROLL CALL – Chairman Gray
3.CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.01(H), public comment is permitted (not required) on matters NOT listed on the
agenda. Any such comment (i) must be within the jurisdiction of the Commission, and (ii) is subject to reasonable
time, place, and manner restrictions. The Commission will not discuss or take legal action on matters raised
during Call to the Public unless the matters are properly noticed for discussion and legal action. At the conclusion
of the Call to the Public, individual commissioners may (i) respond to criticism, (ii) ask staff to review a matter, or
(iii) ask that the matter be placed on a future Commission agenda.
4.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: approving the regular meeting minutes of the
Planning and Zoning Commission June 13, 2022.
5.PUBLIC HEARING, CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: REZONE property at 17205 E
Shea Boulevard, approximately 1.43 acres, generally located approximately 1,400 feet
southeast of the southeast corner of N. Saguaro Boulevard and E. Shea Boulevard from C-1 –
Neighborhood Commercial and Professional Zoning District to C-2 – Intermediate Commercial
Zoning District.
6.REVIEW AND DISCUSS draft language for a Zoning Ordinance text amendment to provide for
drug and alcohol treatment centers and detoxification facilities.
7.REVIEW AND DISCUSS possible amendments to Section 2.02, Special Use Permits, of the
Zoning Ordinance.
8.REVIEW AND DISCUSS possible amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 7, Parking and
Loading Requirements.
9.COMMISSION DISCUSSION/REQUEST FOR RESEARCH to staff.
10.SUMMARY OF COMMISSION REQUESTS from Development Services Director.
11.REPORT from Development Services Director.
12.ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF NOTICE
The undersigned hereby certifies that a copy of the foregoing notice was duly posted in accordance with the statement filed
by the Planning and Zoning Commission with the Town Clerk.
Dated this ______ day of ____________________, 2022.
_____________________________________________
Paula Woodward, Executive Assistant
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting of September 12, 2022 2 of 3
The Town of Fountain Hills endeavors to make all public meetings accessible to persons with disabilities. Please call 480-816-5199 (voice) or
1-800-367-8939 (TDD) 48 hours prior to the meeting to request a reasonable accommodation to participate in the meeting or to obtain
agenda information in large print format. Supporting documentation and staff reports furnished the Commission with this agenda are
available for review in the Development Services' Office.
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting of September 12, 2022 3 of 3
ITEM 4.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 09/12/2022 Meeting Type: Planning and Zoning Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Development Services
Prepared by: Paula Woodward, Executive Assistant
Staff Contact Information: Paula Woodward, Executive Assistant
Request to Planning and Zoning Commission (Agenda Language): CONSIDERATION AND
POSSIBLE ACTION: approving the regular meeting minutes of the Planning and Zoning Commission
June 13, 2022.
Staff Summary (Background)
The intent of approving meeting minutes is to ensure an accurate account of the discussion and action
that took place at the meeting for archival purposes. Approved minutes are placed on the Town's
website and maintained as permanent records in compliance with state law.
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle
N/A
Risk Analysis
N/A
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s)
N/A
Staff Recommendation(s)
Staff recommends approving the meeting minutes of the regular meeting minutes of the Planning and
Zoning Commission June 13, 2022.
SUGGESTED MOTION
MOVE to approve the regular meeting minutes of the Planning and Zoning Commission June 13, 2022.
Attachments
DRAFT MM 220613
D R A F T
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE FOUNTAIN HILLS PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
JUNE 13, 2022
1.CALL TO ORDER, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
Commissioner Dempster called the Regular Meeting of the Fountain Hills Planning and
Zoning Commission held June 13, 2022 to order at 6:00 p.m. and led the Commission
and the public in the Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence.
2.ROLL CALL
Present: Chairman Peter Gray (telephonically); Vice Chairman Scott Schlossberg
(telephonically); Commissioner Clayton Corey; Commissioner Susan
Dempster; Commissioner Dan Kovacevic; Commissioner Roderick Watts,
Jr.; Commissioner Patrick Dapaah (telephonically)
Staff
Present:
Development Services Director John Wesley; Senior Planner Farhad
Tavassoli; Executive Assistant Paula Woodward
3.CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Lori Troller, Fountain Hills resident, expressed concern regarding 5G communications
and the safety of residents in Fountain Hills. She said that she spoke about it at the June
7, 2022, Town Council meeting. She requested that the Commission and the public
educate themselves regarding how 5G is detrimental to the public’s health and that
Fountain Hills should adopt a strict ordinance to protect the community. She stated that
many municipalities have already taken action to restrict 5G.
4.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: approving the regular meeting minutes of the
Planning and Zoning Commission May 9, 2022.
MOVED BY Commissioner Susan Dempster, SECONDED BY Commissioner Dan
Kovacevic to approve the Planning and Zoning Commission minutes of the Regular
Meeting of May 9, 2022.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
5. CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION of Appointing a Chairperson to the Planning
and Zoning Commission.
MOVED BY Commissioner Susan Dempster, SECONDED BY Commissioner Dan
Kovacevic to Appoint Peter Gray as Chairperson.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
6.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: Appointing a Vice Chairperson to the Planning
and Zoning Commission.
MOVED BY Commissioner Susan Dempster, SECONDED BY Commissioner Clayton
Corey to Appoint Scott Schlossberg as Vice Chairperson.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
7.CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: A request for a Special Use Permit to allow up
to five dwelling units in the C-C (Common Commercial) zoning district on an 8,000
square-foot lot located at the northwest corner of El Pueblo Boulevard and Ivory Drive (
Case #SUP22-000001)
Mr. Wesley said that this agenda item was continued from the May 2022 meeting. The
request is for a SUP to allow up to five dwelling units in the C-C zoning district on an
8,000 square foot lot located at the northwest corner of El Pueblo Boulevard and Ivory
Drive. Mr. Wesley highlighted the comments and concerns from the May 9, 2022
meeting as written in the staff report. Mr. Wesley said that the resubmittal proposal
consists of over half of the ground floor to be used as parking for the development, a
2,000 square foot office space, and five residential apartments. As proposed, twenty
parking spaces are required per code, six of which will be provided on the lot inside the
building. That leaves fourteen spaces on the overall site. Thirty-two spaces would be
required for an 8,000 square foot commercial use. The Plat 106 HOA did not provide
staff with any concerns. Mr. Wesley said that staff concluded that the proposal for
residential use on this lot would be consistent with the General Plan designation for this
project. The proposed use would not be detrimental to continued commercial
development of this center or the surrounding neighborhood. The staff is
recommending approval of four units as the maximum allowed. The staff is
recommending approval of the SUP subject to addressing the parking needs and final
site plan approval meets code requirements.
In response to Commissioner Kovacevic, Mr. Wesley said that the zoning ordinance
provides the number of units based on density.
Commissioner Watts commented that he leans toward the approval of four units, not
the five units.
Chairman Gray commented that he was indifferent. He expressed concern that this
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting of June 13, 2022 2 of 6
project could set precedent for future projects.
Mr. Wesley replied that if there is no guide to set the density or cap for a SUP, the door
is wide open in the future for requests that are out of character for a given area. The
difference between one unit is close enough.
Chairman Gray said he is happy the applicant included the resident parking underneath
the units. He was unsure about the driveway across the street from the project site.
Mr. Wesley replied that the Town Engineer did not have any problems with it. If the
driveway was moved, parking spaces would have to be sacrificed.
Commissioner Dempster commented that it is aligned with the neighbor’s garage and
driveway, and it makes sense to have it in that particular spot.
In response to Vice Chairman Schlossberg, Mr. Wesley said that a SUP would be
required should the lower level commercial unit be converted to residential. If the
parking was converted to usable space, the review process would be with staff.
However, there could be stipulations attached to the approval recommendation.
Commissioner Watts asked if the applicant had performed due diligence with the
neighborhood notification. He expressed concern that changes could take place after
the community outreach. The community would be unaware of alterations.
Mr. Wesley said that he didn’t think anymore outreach took place since the last update.
He said that is a good question for the applicant.
Commissioner Dapaah said that trash management seems like an afterthought. It
would be good to review the location of the concrete trash pad and possibly a
compactor. A drain would be nice so the area could be washed. This is a concern for the
surrounding neighbors. Commissioner Dapaah walked the project site and observed a
grease trap area and trash piled high.
Mr. Wesley said that the PowerPoint shows the proposed development plan with
concrete pad and solid waste area to the west. He said more waste disposal areas could
be added as the entire area is developed.
Commissioner Corey asked to see the visuals of the elevations off Ivory Drive. He said
the garage door does a good job mirroring the residential area. He commented that
there are so many windows and suggested reducing the number windows to appear
less commercial and more residential.
In response to Commissioner Dempster, Mr. Wesley said that there have been decisions
by the property owners association about parking lot improvements. It is on the code
enforcement watch list.
Mr. Gurzak, the applicant, told the Commission the parking lot is scheduled for paving
in three to four weeks. The POA is looking into adding more trash receptacles. The
restaurant in the area uses the same trash receptacle. He said he would prefer to build
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting of June 13, 2022 3 of 6
five units but would accommodate to four units to move the project forward. He
agreed with Commissioner Corey’s comments regarding the windows and confirmed
they could be toned down.
Commissioner Dempster asked if there were any public speakers.
Rebecca Ellison, Fountain Hills resident, said that she and her husband live across the
street from this project. They are concerned about the ambiguity of the project. She
said the trash area is an issue now and needs to be addressed. The elevations are
questionable. The architecture does not fit into the neighborhood and the rooftop air
conditioning units need to be reviewed.
Lori Troller, Fountain Hills resident, commented that the driveway is a concern
regarding sightlines and children safety. She said that people are concerned that this
project, once complete, would be sold to a behavioral health company. She inquired if
the applicant agreed to sign off that he would not let this property become a behavioral
health business.
Ed Stizza, Fountain Hills resident, said that this seems like a "shoved in" project. The
developer said they are repaving the parking lot before a major construction project – it
doesn’t make sense. The aesthetic does not blend in with the area. It is time to polish
up Fountain Hills.
Commissioner Watts said that he supports the project as long as there are four units
and parking underneath. The refuse area is a concern.
Commissioner Dempster pointed out that the area is commercially zoned. There could
be some many other businesses that could go there – a motorcycle repair shop or
another restaurant, etc. This project is one of the least disruptive to the area.
Commissioner Corey commented that the shared trash bin with the restaurant is
located too far away. It would make more sense for a dedicated bin closer to them. He
said that if the building was flipped around, as suggested earlier, the neighbors would
be looking at cars. The building has some nice design elements. He said that
landscaping and a new building will definitely improve the look of the area.
Mr. Wesley said that the parking requirement is defined but the dedication is not
specially stated in the project narrative. Parking dedication can be part of the
stipulation.
In response to Commissioner Kovacevic, Mr. Wesley said that the architecture
requirements are typically part of the site plan review by staff. Larger projects can
include architectural comments, suggestions and requirements by the Town Council.
Commissioner Depaah asked if the mechanical units could be placed on the ground to
keep the roof line clear.
Mr. Wesley replied that it will be reviewed when the applicant submits more detailed
plans.
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting of June 13, 2022 4 of 6
Chairman Gray thanked the Commissioner for taking into consideration all the public,
applicant, staff and commissioner comments. He said that unless there is an
overwhelmingly compelling argument to allow five units, he agrees with Commissioner
Watts requirement to allow only four units.
MOVED BY Commissioner Roderick Watts, Jr., SECONDED BY Commissioner Clayton
Corey to forward a recommendation to the Town Council to approve a Special Use Permit
(SUP22-000001) to allow up to four dwelling units in the C-C (Common Commercial)
zoning district on an 8,000 square-foot lot located at the northwest corner of El Pueblo
Boulevard and Ivory Drive as approved through site plan review with the
following stipulations: the enclosed parking is dedicated to the residential units; any
modification to the interior parking use, would require review of the SUP and dedicate
one interior parking space to each dwelling unit.
Vote: 6 - 1
NAY: Vice Chairman Scott Schlossberg (telephonically)
8.CONSIDERATION OF amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 7, Parking and
Loading Requirements.
Mr. Wesley suggested to the Commissioner to reschedule this agenda item for a future
meeting - August or September. He thought it would be best to review this item when
all of the Commission were physically present. The Commission agreed.
9.COMMISSION DISCUSSION/REQUEST FOR RESEARCH to staff.
Commissioner Watts inquired about the Town's reserach regarding 5G.
10.SUMMARY OF COMMISSION REQUESTS from Development Services Director.
Mr. Wesley said that staff is reviewing public comments and researching options
regarding 5G. He said that there are specific limitations by the state from preempted
actions. Public Works is responsible for the cellular tower applications throughout the
Town.
11.REPORT from Development Services Director.
Mr. Wesley said that the July Planning and Zoning Meeting has been canceled.
Upcoming agenda items include detox facilities and parking text amendment.
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting of June 13, 2022 5 of 6
12.ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting of the Fountain Hills Planning and Zoning Commission held June
13, 2022, adjourned at 7:13 p.m.
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
_______________________________
Chairman Peter Gray
ATTESTED AND PREPARED BY:
______________________________
Paula Woodward, Executive Assistant
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Regular
Meeting held by the Planning and Zoning Commission, Fountain Hills in the Town Hall Council
Chambers on June 13, 2022. I further certify that the meeting was duly called and that a quorum was
present.
DATED this day of June 21, 2022.
______________________________
Paula Woodward, Executive Assistant
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting of June 13, 2022 6 of 6
ITEM 5.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 09/12/2022 Meeting Type: Planning and Zoning Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Development Services
Prepared by: Farhad Tavassoli, Senior Planner
Staff Contact Information: Farhad Tavassoli, Senior Planner
Request to Planning and Zoning Commission (Agenda Language): PUBLIC HEARING,
CONSIDERATION AND POSSIBLE ACTION: REZONE property at 17205 E Shea Boulevard,
approximately 1.43 acres, generally located approximately 1,400 feet southeast of the southeast corner
of N. Saguaro Boulevard and E. Shea Boulevard from C-1 – Neighborhood Commercial and Professional
Zoning District to C-2 – Intermediate Commercial Zoning District.
Staff Summary (Background)
SOT USA, LLC submitted this request to rezone a developed parcel from C-1 to C-2 in order to allow an
indoor live fire range. The property is located on the west side of Shea Blvd. (17205 E. Shea Blvd),
approximately ¼ mile southeast of the intersection Shea Blvd. and Saguaro Blvd.
The property has been zoned C-1 since 2003, when it was rezoned from R1-43. The 62,130 sq. ft. subject
parcel contains a 7,500 square foot unit and was completed in 2008. Tenant improvements are
currently underway for a gun shop, which will cover a little over half of the unit. The applicant intends
to use the remainder of the unit for a live fire range. Design measures will be taken within this portion
of the building to contain noise from gunfire entirely within the building.
Although the unit is contained with an individual parcel, it is part of a larger commercial strip center
containing a number units, including offices for Remax, State Farm, Roof King and Neuro Health
Solutions. The neighboring parcel that houses these businesses is also zoned C-1. The neighboring
properties to the west and south are zoned R1-43 and contain detached single-family homes on large
lots. Cereus Wash is adjacent to the north. The Crossroads Business Center, zoned C-2, is across Shea
Blvd. to the east.
The Character Areas Plan from the 2020 Fountain Hills General Plan designates the property as part of
the Shea Corridor and within the Primary Town Center Gateway. The Shea Corridor is characterized by
low intensity, auto-oriented, strip retail development. The Plan stresses non-residential uses in this area
which abut residential areas must always provide an adequate buffer or transition zone, while also
recognizing the necessity for rezoning to allow the flexibility to create the desired gateway entry.
Similarly, the Primary Gateway functions to draw more visitors to the Town and support a strong tax
base and robust local economy.
Zoning Pattern
Typical zoning patterns place the most intense zoning and land uses at major arterial intersections and
along major streets and then step down to less intense zones and uses to provide buffers and transitions
to residential areas. The C-1 and CC zoning districts are the least intense commercial zoning districts in
the Town. The C-2 District is more intense in terms of some of the uses allowed (e.g. auto repair, bars,
drive-in restaurants, liquor stores, etc.) and in terms of allowing stores to operate 24 hours a day (C-1
and CC are restricted to hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.).
Planned Use
As described in the applicant’s narrative, the request for the C-2 zoning district has been made due to
the desire to locate an indoor firing range inside an existing building. Staff has determined that this use
is most appropriate in the C-2 zoning designation, based on a comparison with other uses listed in each
zoning district and because its intended demographic is typically not limited to residents within the
immediate neighborhood and may attract a large number of patrons within a radius extending far
outside the Town. Section 2.01 B 1 b of the Zoning Ordinance requires that a tentative development
plan be submitted with each rezoning application. While this tentative development plan gives an idea
of how the property owner is planning to use the land at this time, this development plan does not
impose any restrictions on the ultimate use of the property. For any reason the property ownership
could change, or the current owner could reconsider and decide to use the property for any of the other
uses allowed in the approved zoning district.
Analysis
This area has been planned and zoned for commercial uses since the founding of Fountain Hills. Most of
the area has been developed and used for a variety of commercial activities for many years, this is one
of last lots to be developed and has been vacant for many years.
The General Plan recognizes that the area of Shea and Saguaro Boulevards is under transition and a
good place to locate a mix of office, retail, entertainment, and residential uses. Given the proximity to
the SR 87 Highway, this is a good location attract and serve both local and regional needs. C-2 zoning
has been introduced to the east across Shea Blvd. with the Crossroads Convenience Center, which
includes and Gruehlichs’s Automotive Repair and Desert Dog Off Road Adventures. The Target shopping
center, located about ¼ mile to the northwest is also zoned C-2.
Of primary consideration in review of this request to rezone from C-1 to C-2 is the General Plan Great
Places Element Policy 2 of Goal 1, which states: "Protect existing neighborhoods from incompatible
development that does not support the character of that area;” Development of C-2 uses on this
property could negatively impact the adjacent residential property. The adjacent properties are zoned
and developed with single-family uses and the street pattern allows direct access from the commercial
activities into the residential neighborhood.
Many of these impacts for the live fire range in particular can be addressed through site and building
design, particularly to the interior. In this case, the applicant will mitigate impacts by insulating the
building to prevent gunfire noise from escaping the building. Potential impacts still exist, however, in
terms of the lights, noise, and activity that can occur with C-2 uses. One significant difference between
the C-1 and C-2 zoning districts is the height allowed. In the C-1 District the maximum height is 25'; in
the C-2 it is 40'. However, the setback from the adjacent residential use increases with the building
height (setback must at least 40 feet for the proposed 40' tall building). Also of concern are the hours of
operation. People who purchased property and live in neighboring Firerock did so with the existing
commercial development being closed at night. Rezoning to C-2 will allow 24-hour operations. The
commercial development being closed at night. Rezoning to C-2 will allow 24-hour operations. The
nature of the uses also become more intense with the additionally allowed uses, primarily drive-thrus
being a use by right.
The Commission may be of the opinion that a live fire range is not inappropriate for the area, but agree
that a rezone to C-2 invites the potential for negative impacts. In this case, the Commission may
alternatively either provide direction to staff to specifically introduce live gunfire ranges as an allowed
use under the C-1 district through a zoning ordinance text amendment, or recommend to the Town
Council that they consider directing the Zoning Administrator to consider this use to be a C-1 use.
Citizen Participation
As part of the rezoning application the applicant was required to provide a Citizen Participation Plan
detailing how they will engage the public regarding the proposed rezoning and use of the property.
That plan included sending a letter to property owners within 300' of the property and inviting them to
a meeting. The meeting was held on June 14 at 1:00 pm. No one came to the meeting. That notice did,
however, generate an email from a neighbor expressing opposition to the proposed rezoning.
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle
General Plan Section III - Great Places Element
Zoning Ordinance Chapter 12 - Commercial Zoning Districts
Risk Analysis
N/A
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s)
N/A
Staff Recommendation(s)
While the proposed use as an indoor firing range will be designed in a manner to significantly reduce
negative impacts, staff has concerns with the introduction C-2 in this location and the potential for
negative impacts should the business owner cease operations and landowner agree to a new tenant. C-2
allows for 24-hour establishments as well as building heights up to 40-feet. Staff believes neither of
these conditions are appropriate for properties adjacent to the R1-43 zoning district, as they do not
provide an adequate buffer or transition areas to large-lot, single-family residential uses. Therefore, staff
recommends denial of the requested rezoning.
SUGGESTED MOTION
Staff will help the Commission draft a motion as necessary.
Attachments
Case Map
Applicant Narrative
Site Plan
Citizen Participation Plan Report
Opposition Letter #1
Opposition Letter #2
Ordinance 22-06
CASE:
RZ22-001
SITE / ADDRESS:
17205 E. Shea Blvd.
APN # 176-10-247
REQUEST:
REZONE of approximately 1.43 acres
generally located approximately 1,400 feet
southeast of the southeast corner of N.
Saguaro Boulevard and E.Shea Boulevard
from C-1 –Neighborhood Commercial and
Professional Zoning District to C-2 –
Intermediate Commercial Zoning District.
Site Location
TOWN LIMITS
1
Farhad Tavassoli
From:John Wesley
Sent:Wednesday, August 31, 2022 2:28 PM
To:Farhad Tavassoli
Subject:FW: Proposed rezoning of 17205 East Shea Blvd
Attachments:Rezoning.pdf
fyi
John D. Wesley, AICP
Development Services Director
Town of Fountain Hills
p: (480) 816‐5138
a: 16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
w: www.fountainhillsaz.gov e: jwesley@fountainhillsaz.gov
Follow us on:
From: Ginny Dickey
Sent: Saturday, June 11, 2022 12:11 PM
To: Grady Miller ; John Wesley
Subject: Fwd: Proposed rezoning of 17205 East Shea Blvd
Hi, Can you update me on this please? Thanks, Ginny
From: J F <jillflynn07@gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, June 11, 2022, 10:56 AM
To: gdickey@fountainhillsaz.gov <gdickey@fountainhillsaz.gov>
Subject: Proposed rezoning of 17205 East Shea Blvd
EXTERNAL EMAIL
Hi Ms. Dickey,
I am contacting you to express my opposition to the proposed rezoning of the above property from C-1 to C-2. I
live on Firebrick Drive, just behind the proposed site and am extremely concerned about this rezoning to allow
a gun fire range to occupy this space. The zoning of C-1 is very purposeful, as it allows all of the neighbors that
back up to this property to enjoy relatively low noise and minimal in/out traffic. In addition, there is sure to be
some level of resistance by the public, based on the recent events in our Country. The timing could hardly be
worse. I chose Fountain Hills for the quiet neighborhoods and low traffic coming in from other areas. We love
the residents of Fountain Hills and want to keep our community quiet and free from unwanted attention,
potential protests, news attention, and general disturbance of the peace between residents of different views. I
URGE you to vote “no” for the potential rezoning.
2
In addition, the notice of a “public neighborhood meeting” on 6/14/22 was just received at our home (in US
mail) on Friday, 6/10/22. This doesn’t allow sufficient time to plan for such an event and there is no mention of
the possibility of attending remotely, as I will be out of town and unable to attend. (Letter was dated
5/31/22…envelope postmarked 6/7/22). I am attaching the letter for your review.
Please let me know your thoughts and initial stance on this issue.
Cordially yours,
Jill Flynn
1
Farhad Tavassoli
From:John Wesley
Sent:Wednesday, August 31, 2022 2:27 PM
To:Farhad Tavassoli
Subject:FW: Gun Range Rezoning on East Shea Blvd.
fyi
John D. Wesley, AICP
Development Services Director
Town of Fountain Hills
p: (480) 816‐5138
a: 16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
w: www.fountainhillsaz.gov e: jwesley@fountainhillsaz.gov
Follow us on:
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: J F <jillflynn07@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, June 10, 2022 6:14 PM
To: John Wesley <jwesley@fountainhillsaz.gov>
Subject: Gun Range Rezoning on East Shea Blvd.
EXTERNAL EMAIL
Hello Mr. Wesley!
We have been notified of the request to rezone 17205 East Shea Blvd from C1 to C2, in order to accommodate a gun
range. We are adjacent neighbors to that property, 9048 N. Firebrick Drive. We are asking that the City of Fountain
Hills not approve this zoning change request. The area behind is a residential area, and allowing this sort of facility
within such close proximity could be extremely detrimental to neighborhood safety, quality of life, and property values.
Could you please advise us how best we can communicate with the City to further express our concerns here?
We would be interested in your thoughts on this proposed project as well. Thank you very much for your time and
consideration!
Best Regards,
2
Jill and Jeff Flynn
ORDINANCE NO. 22-06
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF
FOUNTAIN HILLS, ARIZONA, AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING
DISTRICT MAPS OF THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS, ARIZONA, BY
CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION OF APPROXIMATELY 1.43
ACRES LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 1,400 FEET SOUTHEAST OF
THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF N. SAGUARO BLVD. AND E. SHEA
BLVD FROM C-1 - NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL AND
PROFESSIONAL ZONING DISTRICT TO C-2 INTERMEDIATE
COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT.
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, the Town of Fountain Hills (the “Town”) adopted Ordinance No. 93-22, on
November 18, 1993, adopting the Zoning Ordinance for the Town of Fountain Hills (the
“Zoning Ordinance”); and
WHEREAS, Chapter 2, Procedures, Section 2.01, Amendments or Zone Changes, of
the Zoning Ordinance establishes the authority and procedures for amending the zoning
district boundaries; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance and pursuant to ARIZ. REV.
STAT. § 9-462.04, public hearings were advertised in the August 24 and 31, 2022
editions of the Times of Fountain Hills;
WHEREAS, public hearings were held by the Fountain Hills Planning & Zoning
Commission on September 12, 2022, and by the Mayor and Council of the Town of
Fountain Hills on October 18, 2022.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS as follows:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are hereby incorporated as if fully set forth herein.
SECTION 2. The approximately 1.43-acre parcel of real property located at 17205 N.
Shea Blvd., as more particularly described and depicted on Exhibit A, attached hereto
and incorporated herein by reference, is rezoned from “C-1 Neighborhood Commercial
and Professional Zoning District” to “C-2 – Intermediate Commercial Zoning District”.
SECTION 3. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this
Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any
court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the
remaining portions of this Ordinance.
2
SECTION 4. The Mayor, the Town Manager, the Town Clerk and the Town Attorney
are hereby authorized and directed to execute all documents and take all steps
necessary to carry out the purpose and intent of this Ordinance.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Mayor and Council of the Town of Fountain
Hills, Arizona, this 18th day of October, 2022.
FOR THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS: ATTESTED TO:
Ginny Dickey, Mayor Linda Mendenhall, Town Clerk
REVIEWED BY: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Grady E. Miller, Town Manager Aaron D. Arnson, Town Attorney
Grady Miller, Town Manager Town Attorney
ITEM 6.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 09/12/2022 Meeting Type: Planning and Zoning Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Development Services
Prepared by: John Wesley, Development Services Director
Staff Contact Information: John Wesley, Development Services Director
Request to Planning and Zoning Commission (Agenda Language): REVIEW AND DISCUSS draft
language for a Zoning Ordinance text amendment to provide for drug and alcohol treatment centers
and detoxification facilities.
Staff Summary (Background)
The Commission began discussion of this text amendment at their March 2022 meeting and followed
up with further discussion at their May 2022 meeting. The discussions by the Commission and citizens
have provided input and direction to staff in the drafting of an ordinance for further review and
discussion.
One of the points of discussion at the May meeting was the impact of doing nothing. These uses are
not currently specifically listed in the zoning ordinance but must be allowed if someone wanted to
establish one of these uses. If a person wanted to start one of these uses, they would need to ask the
Zoning Administrator to make a determination as to which zoning district the use would appropriately
fall into. In making that determination, the Zoning Administrator would not be able to also put
conditions or requirements on the use. By acting proactively and taking the time to specifically
consider these uses and their potential impacts, the Town can place them in the appropriate zoning
district(s) and also place any necessary processes and requirements on them to help ensure their
compatibility.
At the May meeting the Commission asked that staff go ahead and take the comments which had
been received and put it into an ordinance for the Commission and citizens. This will give everyone a
starting place to consider for finalizing an ordinance to send to the Council. The thought at the May
meeting was that staff would make this first draft of possible ordinance language available then the
Commission would follow up with a public input session to gather further input on the draft language.
After receiving that input, an amended ordinance would be prepared and a public hearing scheduled for
Commission consideration.
Attached is the first draft ordinance staff has prepared based on the input received thus far. The point of
this agenda item is to make this draft ordinance available to the Commission and public. Beyond a
basic introduction and overview of the draft ordinance, no action is anticipated at this time. Based on
the direction provided by the Commission, substantive discussion will take place following the public
the direction provided by the Commission, substantive discussion will take place following the public
input session.
The attached draft ordinance to start public discussion includes:
Definitions for detoxification facility, outpatient; detoxification facility, inpatient; substance abuse
treatment center; and, substance abuse treatment center, lodging.
Lists substance abuse treatment center as a use by right in C-2 and C-3
Lists detoxification center, outpatient as a use in the C-2 district with approval of a SUP and
subject to several conditions
Lists detoxification center, outpatient and detoxification center, inpatient as uses in the C-3
district with approval of a SUP and subject to several conditions
Lists substance abuse treatment center, lodging as a use in the C-3 district with approval of a SUP
and subject to several conditions.
The ordinance also makes the change in language changing group homes to community
residences that was overlooked in the advertisement for the previous change.
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle
N/A
Risk Analysis
N/A
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s)
N/A
Staff Recommendation(s)
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION
The purpose of this agenda item is to make the draft ordinance language available for Commission
and public review and future comment. No action will be taken.
Attachments
Draft ordinance
500 foot boundary map
ORDINANCE NO. 22-02
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS, ARIZONA, AMENDING THE
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS ZONING ORDINANCE,
CHAPTER 1, INTRODUCTION, SECTION 1.12,
DEFINITIONS, AMENDING THE DEFINITIONS OF
TREATMENT CENTER; AMENDING CHAPTER 12,
COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICTS, SECTION 12.03 C. TO
UPDATE THE LANGUAGE FROM GROUP HOME TO
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE; AMENDING CHAPTER 12,
COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICTS, SECTION 12.05,
USES SUBJECT TO SPECIAL USE PERMITS IN C-2
ZONING DISTRICTS BY ADDING NEW SECTIONS O AND
P REGARDING DETOXIFICATION FACILITIES AND
TREATMENT CENTERS; AMENDING CHAPTER 12,
COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICTS, SECTION 12.06,
USES SUBJECT TO SPECIAL USE PERMITS IN C-3
ZONING DISTRICTS ONLY BY ADDING NEW SECTIONS
F, G, H, AND I REGARDING DETOXIFICATION FACILITIES
AND TREATMENT CENTERS; AND, AMENDING
CHAPTER 18, TOWN CENTER COMMERCIAL ZONING
DISTRICTS, SECTION 18.05 B. TO UPDATE THE
LANGUAGE FROM GROUP HOME TO COMMUNITY
RESIDENCE
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council of the Town of Fountain Hills (the “Town Council”)
adopted Ordinance No. 93-22 on November 18, 1993, which adopted the Zoning
Ordinance for the Town of Fountain Hills (the “Zoning Ordinance”); and
WHEREAS, the Town Council desires to amend Chapter 1, Introduction, Section 1.12,
Definitions, and Chapter 12, Commercial Zoning Districts, Sections 12.05 and 12.06 to
provide for detoxification facilities and drug and alcohol treatment centers; and
WHEREAS, the C-2 and C-3 zoning districts have the primary purposes of providing for
the sale of commodities, provision of services, and wholesale and distribution; and
WHEREAS, the Town wants to ensure uses in commercial areas are focused on
businesses that provide for the sale of goods and services to the community, especially
those that provide jobs and generate revenues for the Town; and
WHEREAS, the uses included in this ordinance are appropriate in commercial areas but
should be limited to maintain the primary purpose of these districts; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance and pursuant to ARIZ. REV. STAT. §
9-462.04, public hearings regarding this ordinance were advertised in the ???? editions
of the Fountain Hills Times; and
WHEREAS, public hearings were held by the Fountain Hills Planning & Zoning
Commission on ?????, 2022, and by the Town Council on ????, 2022.
WHEREAS, in accordance with Article II, Sections 1 and 2, Constitution of Arizona, and
the laws of the State of Arizona, the Town Council has considered the individual property
rights and personal liberties of the residents of the Town and the probable impact of the
proposed ordinance on the cost to construct housing for sale or rent before adopting this
ordinance.
ENACTMENTS:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS as follows:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are hereby incorporated as if fully set forth herein.
SECTION 2. The Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 1, Introduction, Section 1.12,
Definitions, is hereby amended as follows:
…
DETOXIFICATION FACILITY, OUTPATIENT: FACILITIES PROVIDING
OUTPATIENT DRUG OR ALCOHOL DETOXIFICATION SERVICES WITH OR
WITHOUT TRAINING, EDUCATION, OR TREATMENT SERVICES AT THE
SAME LOCATION.
DETOXIFICATION FACILITY, INPATIENT: FACILITIES PROVIDING
INPATIENT DRUG OR ALCOHOL DETOXIFICATION SERVICES.
…
SUBSTANCE ABUSE Treatment Center: Facilities providing lodging and meals
and, primarily, treatment, training or education as a part of an alcoholism or drug
addiction program WITHOUT ON-SITE DETOXIFICATION, LODGING, OR
MEALS.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT CENTER, LODGING: FACILITIES
PROVIDING TREATMENT, TRAINING, OR EDUCATION AS PART OF AN
ALCOHOLISM OR DRUG ADDICTION PROGRAM. MAY INCLUDE
PROVIDING DETOXIFICATION SERVICES IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE
TREATMENT AND MY INCLUDE PROVISIONS WHERE CLIENTS CAN LODGE
AT THE FACILITY AND RECEIVE MEALS, TYPICALLY FOR A PERIOD OF 30
DAYS TO 90 DAYS.
…
SECTION 3. The Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 12, Commercial Zoning Districts,
Section 12.02 C. Additional Uses Permitted in C-2 and C-3 Zoning Districts, is hereby
amended as follows:
26. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT CENTER
SECTION 4. The Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 12, Commercial Zoning Districts,
Section 12.03, Uses Subject to Special Use Permits in C-1, C-C, C-2, and C-3 Zoning
Districts, is hereby amended as follows:
C. Group Homes for the Handicapped and Elderly PeopleCOMMUNITY
RESIDENCES SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS IN SECTION 5.13,
Nursing Home, Homes for the Aged, Convalescent Home.
SECTION 5. The Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 12, Commercial Zoning Districts,
Section 12.05, Uses Subject to Special Use Permits in C-2 Zoning Districts, is hereby
amended as follows:
…
O. DETOXIFICATION CENTER, OUTPATIENT. IN ADDITION TO THE
REQUIREMENTS IN SECTION 2.02 FOR CONSIDERATION OF A SPECIAL USE
PERMIT, APPLICANTS SHALL PROVIDE
1. COPY OF LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION BY THE STATE OF ARIZONA
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES.
2. SUFFICIENT INDOOR ACTIVITY AND WAITING SPACE TO LIMIT
OUTDOOR WAITING.
3. CONTACT INFORMATION AND PROCESS FOR RESOLUTION OF
COMPLAINTS.
4. MUST BE LOCATED AT LEAST THE FOLLOWING DISTANCES FROM
THE LISTED USES:
A. 2,000 FEET FROM ANY OTHER DETOXIFICATION CENTER,
SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT CENTER, OR TRANSITIONAL
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE
B. 500 FROM ANY RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICT INCLUDING
PLANNED AREA DEVELOPMENTS WITH A RESIDENTIAL
PRIMARY USE.
SECTION 5. The Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 12, Commercial Zoning Districts,
Section 12.06, Uses Subject to Special Use Permits in C-3 Zoning Districts Only, is
hereby amended as follows:
F. DETOXIFICATION CENTER, OUTPATIENT AND INPATIENT. IN ADDITION
TO THE REQUIREMENTS IN SECTION 2.02 FOR CONSIDERATION OF A SPECIAL
USE PERMIT, APPLICANTS SHALL PROVIDE:
1. COPY OF LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION BY THE STATE OF ARIZONA
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES.
2. SUFFICIENT INDOOR ACTIVITY AND WAITING SPACE TO LIMIT
OUTDOOR WAITING.
3. CONTACT INFORMATION AND PROCESS FOR RESOLUTION OF
COMPLAINTS.
4. MUST BE LOCATED AT LEAST THE FOLLOWING DISTANCES FROM
THE LISTED USES:
A. 2,000 FEET FROM ANY OTHER DETOXIFICATION CENTER,
SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT CENTER, OR TRANSITIONAL
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE
B. 500 FROM ANY RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICT INCLUDING
PLANNED AREA DEVELOPMENTS WITH A RESIDENTIAL
I. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT CENTER, LODGING. IN ADDITION TO
THE REQUIREMENTS IN SECTION 2.02 FOR CONSIDERATION OF A SPECIAL USE
PERMIT, APPLICANT SHALL PROVIDE:
1. COPY OF LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION BY THE STATE OF ARIZONA
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES.
2. SUFFICIENT INDOOR ACTIVITY AND WAITING SPACE TO LIMIT
OUTDOOR WAITING.
3. CONTACT INFORMATION AND PROCESS FOR RESOLUTION OF
COMPLAINTS.
4. MUST BE LOCATED AT LEAST THE FOLLOWING DISTANCES FROM
THE LISTED USES:
A. 2,000 FEET FROM ANY OTHER DETOXIFICATION CENTER,
SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT CENTER, OR TRANSITIONAL
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE
B. 500 FROM ANY RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICT INCLUDING
PLANNED AREA DEVELOPMENTS WITH A RESIDENTIAL
SECTION 6. The Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 18, Town Center Commercial Zoning
Districts, Section 18.05, Uses Subject to Special Use Permits, is hereby amended as
follows:
B. Group Homes for the Handicapped and Elderly PeopleCOMMUNITY
RESIDENCES SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS IN SECTION 5.13,
Nursing Home, Homes for the Aged, Convalescent Home.
SECTION 7. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this
Ordinance is for any reason held to be unconstitutional by the decision of any court of
competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions
of this Ordinance.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Mayor and Council of the Town of Fountain Hills,
Arizona, this ___ day of ___ 2022.
FOR THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS: ATTESTED TO:
Ginny Dickey, Mayor Elizabeth A. Klein, Town Clerk
REVIEWED BY: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Grady E. Miller, Town Manager Aaron D. Arnson, Town Attorney
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TOWN OF INC. 1989
EXHIBIT MAP
LEGEND:
C-2 and C-3 Zoning
Residential Zoning
Vacant ParcelV
500 feet
Other Zoning
ITEM 7.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 09/12/2022 Meeting Type: Planning and Zoning Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Development Services
Prepared by: John Wesley, Development Services Director
Staff Contact Information: John Wesley, Development Services Director
Request to Planning and Zoning Commission (Agenda Language): REVIEW AND DISCUSS
possible amendments to Section 2.02, Special Use Permits, of the Zoning Ordinance.
Staff Summary (Background)
Chapter 2 of the Zoning Ordinance provides the procedures for rezoning, special use permits, temporary
use permits, site plans, appeals, and variances. Staff has found a need to update and modernize each of
these sections, to make them more readable and consistent, and to address some issues found within
each of the sections. Because this is a lot of material and because each section can stand alone, staff is
proposing to submit the changes to the Commission one section at a time.
Staff has looked at and prepared draft language for each section of Chapter 2 that needs to be updated.
This has been done to create a consistent structure in each chapter to ease use in the future and ensure
consistency in each section. Staff is starting the review with the Planning and Zoning Commission with
Section 2.02, Special Use Permits, because it is used more frequently than Section 2.01, Amendments or
Zoning Changes. The next section to be reviewed will be Section 2.04, Site Plans.
Special use permits are set up for each zoning district for uses which may or may not be compatible with
the zoning district depending on the setting. Special use permit requests are reviewed by the Planning
and Zoning Commission and approved by the Town Council following public input. Conditions can be
placed on the approval of a special use permit to address compatibility concerns. Staff believes
amendments are needed to this section to:
Provide consistency in requirements with other types of applications,
Update application requirements and procedures to current practice,
Clarify site plan requirements,
Clarify that the Permit is reviewed as a Public Hearing,
Clarify and improve notice requirements,
Add options to what can be required as part of approval of a Special Use Permit, and
Provide direction for modification of an approved Special Use Permit.
A copy of the existing Section 2.02 and the draft revised Section 2.02 are attached for your review.
Because of the nature of the changes it became difficult to use a strike through version to see the
changes. The following is a description of the primary changes.
Purpose. (2.02 A in both the revised and existing ordinance). There are no changes to this section
Application (2.02 B in the revised ordinance, 2.02 C in the existing ordinance).
This section has been revised to reflect our change from paper applications to online
applications.
The revised ordinance contains more detail as to the information to be provided in a
project narrative.
The existing ordinance allows the Zoning Administrator to require a site plan. The revised
ordinance requires the site plan, but then allows for exceptions.
The revised ordinance adds the requirement for submitting the Citizen Participation Plan
required by Section 2.08.
States the requirement to submit the names of property owners for notification.
Provides for the filing fee.
Note: The items listed in the existing section 2.02 B have been moved to Section 2.02 I to
keep the format with other sections.
Review (2.02 C in the revised ordinance, mostly new).
Establishes the need to determine a complete application before processing begins.
Establishes that staff will review, comment on, and require revisions until ready for hearing
and will then prepare a report with recommendations.
Includes general review criteria from current Sec. 2.02 D 1.
Notice (2.02 D in the revised ordinance, 2.02 D 2 in the existing ordinance).
Current ordinance requires site posting and mailed notice. Practice has also been to
publish notice so that has been added.
The revised ordinance includes all three forms of notice.
Revised ordinance includes the requirement for a minimum 15-day notice which has been
the practice.
Hearings (2.02 E in the revised ordinance, mostly new)
Provides an overview of the hearing process.
Describes who can appear, what information can be presented, and the ability for the
presiding officer to set time limits.
Allows for investigations by the decision body
Requires a written summary of the testimony and action.
Action (2.02 F in the revised ordinance, 2.02 D & E in the existing ordinance).
Mostly the same, just re-organized.
Continues to require the Commission make a decision within 60-days after the original
hearing (this is sometimes hard to do and could be modified if desired).
Have added the opportunity for the Commission to require a "Good Neighbor Policy" to be
submitted for any SUP.
Current ordinance requires the SUP to be heard by the Town Council at the next meeting at
least 8 days after the Commission recommendation. We often go to the second meeting
after the Commission meeting to have minutes done and to meet the processing
requirements for Council. This requirement has been omitted from the revised ordinance.
Time Limits (2.02G in revised ordinance, 2.02 F in existing ordinance)
No change.
May want to consider extending the 6-month time frame to receive a building permit.
Revocation (2.02 H in revised ordinance, 2.02 G in existing ordinance). No changes to this section.
General Regulations (2.02 I in the revised ordinance, 2.02 B in the existing ordinance). This was
moved to maintain a more consistent format with the other sections. No changes to this section.
moved to maintain a more consistent format with the other sections. No changes to this section.
Modifications and Amendments (2.02 J in revised ordinance).
This section is new, the current ordinance gives no direction on how to consider
modifications or amendments to an approved SUP
Defines minor and major modifications. Minor modifications can be approved
administratively, major modifications are processed like new applications.
Amendments are defined and are processed like new applications.
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle
Zoning Ordinance Chapter 2, Procedures
Risk Analysis
N/A
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s)
N/A
Staff Recommendation(s)
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION
This is being presented as a discussion topic at this meeting. Based on feedback received staff will make
adjustments to the proposed ordinance and bring it back for a public hearing and action by the
Commission.
Attachments
Existing Sec. 2.02
Revised Section 2.02
2.02 Special Use Permits | Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance Page 1 of 4
The Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance is current through Ordinance 22-01, passed May 3, 2022.
Section 2.02 Special Use Permits
A. Purpose: Every zoning district contains certain buildings, structures and uses of land which are normal and
complementary to permitted uses in the district, but which, by reason of their typical physical or operational
characteristics, influence on the traffic function of adjoining streets, or similar conditions, are often
incompatible with adjacent activities and uses. It is the intent of this ordinance to permit special uses in
appropriate zoning districts, but only in specific locations within such districts that can be designed and
developed in a manner which assures maximum compatibility with adjoining uses. It is the purpose of this
section to establish principles and procedures essential to proper guidance and control of such uses.
B. General Regulations:
1. Zoning district regulations established elsewhere in this ordinance specify that certain buildings,
structures and uses of land may be allowed by the Town Council as conditional uses in a given district
subject to the provisions of this section and to requirements set forth in district regulations. The Town
Council is empowered to grant and to deny applications for use permits and to impose reasonable
conditions upon them.
2. Any building, structure or use existing on the effective date of this ordinance which is reclassified as a
special use by this ordinance for the district in which it is located shall be considered as meeting the
conditions which would otherwise be imposed upon such use by this ordinance, and its continuance shall
not be subject to issuance of a special use permit; provided, however, to the extent that such use fails to
conform to the requirements of this ordinance, it shall be considered nonconforming as described in
section 4.01, and its continuance shall be governed by all nonconforming use regulations applicable
thereto.
3. Every special use permit issued shall be applicable only to the specific use and to the specific property
for which it is issued. Upon completion and final inspection by the Zoning Administrator of any
authorized structures, signifying that all zoning and site development requirements imposed in connection
with the permit have been satisfied, the special use permit shall thereafter be transferable and shall run
with the land, whereupon the maintenance of special conditions imposed by the permit, as well as the
compliance with other provisions of this ordinance, shall become the responsibility of the property owner.
C. Special Use Permit Application:
1. Application for a use permit shall be filed with the Development Services Department on a form
prescribed by the Development Services Department. The application shall be forwarded to the
Commission by the Planning and Zoning Division, and when required by the Zoning Administrator, shall
be accompanied by a detailed site plan prepared in accordance with Section 2.04 showing all information
necessary to demonstrate that the proposed use will comply with all special conditions as well as other
regulations and requirements of this Zoning Ordinance. An applicant may furnish the Commission with
any additional information it may consider relevant to the case.
2.02 Special Use Permits | Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance Page 2 of 4
The Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance is current through Ordinance 22-01, passed May 3, 2022.
D. Commission Action and Findings:
1. It is the express intent of this ordinance that any use for which a special use permit is required shall be
permitted in the particular zoning district; provided, that all special conditions and requirements of this
ordinance are met. Therefore, the action of the Commission shall be one of recommending approval or
denial to the Town Council based upon its judgment as to whether the specified conditions have been or
will be met. The Commission shall consider not only the nature of the use and the special conditions
influencing its location in the particular district, but also the proposed location of buildings, parking and
other facilities within the site, the amount of traffic likely to be generated and how it will be
accommodated, and the influence that such factors are likely to exert on adjoining properties. The
Commission may make such suggestions to the Town Council concerning ways a proposed project may
be acceptable and compatible to the area.
2. Notice of the nature of the special use permit application and the date of the meeting at which it will
be considered shall be posted on the property and shall be mailed to the owners of all real property within
three hundred (300) feet of the external boundaries of the property for which application is made. The
applicant shall be responsible for providing the names and addresses of these owners.
3. The Commission shall consider the application at the first regular meeting after the proper advertising
procedures and period have been completed. The Commission, at this regularly scheduled meeting, shall
either (1) make a recommendation to the Town Council, or continue the matter to a specified date (but not
longer than sixty (60) days from the date of the original hearing). Within sixty (60) days after the date of
the original hearing, the Commission shall render its decision in the form of a written recommendation to
the Council. The recommendation shall include the rationale for the recommendation. However, if the
Commission is not able to make a recommendation to the Council at the continued meeting and the
applicant does not consent to a further continuance, the matter shall be automatically forwarded to the
Council with a recommendation for denial.
4. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to maintain the posting. The notice shall set forth the time
and place of the hearing and include a general explanation of the matter to be considered and a general
description of the area affected.
5. In order to recommend approval of any use permit, the findings of the Commission must be that the
establishment, maintenance, or operation of the use or building applied for will not be detrimental to the
public health, safety, peace, comfort, and general welfare of persons residing or working in the
neighborhood of such proposed use, nor shall it be detrimental or injurious to property and improvements
in the neighborhood or to the general welfare of the Town.
6. The Commission may recommend to the Town Council such conditions in connection with the use
permit as it deems appropriate to secure the intent and purposes of this ordinance and may recommend
such guarantees and evidence that such conditions are being or will be followed.
2.02 Special Use Permits | Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance Page 3 of 4
The Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance is current through Ordinance 22-01, passed May 3, 2022.
7. If the Commission finds that the application and supporting data do not indicate that all applicable
conditions and requirements of this ordinance will be met, it may recommend denial of the special use
permit. The Commission recommendation shall be mailed to the applicant at the address shown on the
application.
8. Upon conclusion of the Commission's hearing, the Commission's recommendation shall be forwarded
to the Town Council along with the application materials, staff report, written comments from the public,
and minutes of the hearing.
E. Council Action and Findings:
1. When the Town Council receives a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission
concerning a Special Use Permit application, it shall hear the request at the scheduled date and time
specified in accordance to the Arizona Open Meeting Law, but no later than the next regularly scheduled
meeting held at least eight (8) days after the Commission recommendation is received. The Council may
adopt the Commission's recommendation, approve the Special Use Permit request with the conditions it
deems appropriate, or deny the Special Use Permit.
2. The Council's decision shall be final and shall become effective immediately. Notice of the decision
shall forthwith be mailed to the applicant at the address shown in the application.
F. Time Limits:
1. The Council may establish a time limitation for special use permits. A building permit for the
construction of any improvements allowed by any special use permit issued by the Town Council shall be
secured within six (6) months from the date of approval. Any lapsing of the building permit prior to
completion of the improvements will cause the Special Use Permit to become null and void. Prior to the
termination of this time limit, the applicant may make a written request to the Town Council and the
Council may reconsider said use permit to determine if the permit should be reissued for an additional
time period or be terminated. There shall be no use permit fee for this extension request.
2. No person shall reapply for the same or substantially the same use permit on the same or substantially
the same plot, lot, or parcel of land within a period of one (1) year from the date of denial of said use
permit.
G. Revocation:
1. Special use permits granted in accordance with the provisions of this ordinance may be revoked by the
Town Council, if any of the conditions or terms of the permit are violated or if any law or ordinance is
violated in connection therewith. The Zoning Administrator shall notify the permittee of a violation of a
special use permit, in writing. If the violation is not remedied or the remedy is not substantially begun in
the opinion of the Zoning Administrator within ten (10) days after notification, the owner/tenant should
be notified that the Town Council will consider revocation of the permit at its next meeting.
2.02 Special Use Permits | Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance Page 4 of 4
The Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance is current through Ordinance 22-01, passed May 3, 2022.
2. Any special use permit issued by the Town Council shall be considered null and void if construction
does not conform to the originally approved site plan. Any requests for deviations from the originally
approved site plan shall be processed as a new use permit.
H. Fee: The application for a special use permit shall be accompanied by a filing fee in an amount established
by a schedule adopted by resolution of the Council and filed in the office of the Town Clerk. No part of the
filing fee shall be refundable. Payment of the filing fee shall be waived when the petitioner is the Town,
county, school district, state or federal government.
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The Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance is current through Ordinance 22-01, passed May 3, 2022.
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2.02 Special Use Permits
A. Purpose. Every zoning district contains certain buildings, structures and uses of land which are
normal and complementary to permitted uses in the district, but which, by reason of their
typical physical or operational characteristics, influence on the traffic function of adjoining
streets, or similar conditions, are often incompatible with adjacent activities and uses. It is the
intent of this ordinance to permit special uses in appropriate zoning districts, but only in specific
locations within such districts that can be designed and developed in a manner which assures
maximum compatibility with adjoining uses. It is the purpose of this section to establish
principles and procedures essential to proper guidance and control of such uses.
B. Application.
1. Complete Application. Applications for special use permits shall be filed with the
Development Services Department by an owner of real property within the area
proposed to the special use using the process established by the Director for such
applications. All such applications shall include the information required in this section.
2. Project Narrative. A written statement which includes:
a. A narrative describing the existing zoning, desired use of the property, and
reasons justifying the proposed special use permit.
b. A map showing the particular property or properties for which the special use
permit is requested and substantially the adjoining properties and the public
streets and ways within a radius of three hundred (300) feet of the exterior
boundaries thereof.
c. A true statement revealing any conditions or restrictions of record (if any) which
would affect the permitted uses of the property and the date or dates (if any) of
expiration thereof.
d. Such photographs, drawings, and other supporting documents (if any) as the
applicant may desire to present.
3. A detailed site plan prepared in accordance with Section 2.04 B. 3 showing all
information necessary to demonstrate that the proposed use will comply with all special
conditions as well as other regulations and requirements of this Zoning Ordinance.
a. For previously developed sites the Development Services Director may allow
deviations from the requirements of Section 2.04 B. 3 provided the submitted
site plan still provides the information needed by the Commission and Council
to consider the impacts of the proposed use.
b. The applicant may request to have consideration of a conceptual site plan as
part of the consideration of the special use permit. If the Development Services
Director approves submission of a conceptual site plan with the special use
permit, a final site plan in substantial conformance with the conceptual site plan
must be submitted and approved as required by Section 2.04 before submittal
of building construction plans.
4. Citizen Participation Plan. A copy of the Citizen Participation Plan as required by Section
2.08
5. A list of names and addresses for all property owners within three hundred (300) feet of
the exterior boundaries of the property for which an application is made.
6. Filing Fee. Payment of a filing fee in an amount established by a schedule adopted by
resolution of the Council and filed in the offices of the Town Clerk. No part of the filing
fee shall be returnable. Payment of filing fee shall be waived when the change is
initiated by the Council or the Commission or when the applicant is the Town, school
district, special purpose district, county, state or federal government.
C. Review.
1. Determination of Complete Application. Before initiating review, the Development
Services Director, or designee, shall review the submittal to determine if it is complete
and meets the requirements of this Section. Applicants will be notified of missing or
incomplete application items. Once an application has been determined to be complete
the applicant will be notified to pay the application fee. When the fee has been
received staff will begin review of the application.
2. Staff review. Staff will conduct review and analysis of the special use permit and will
seek additional information and clarification from the applicant as necessary to prepare
a report and recommendation to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
3. Review of a special use permit request will include any item specifically required by this
Ordinance for a given special use permit plus the following:
a. The nature of the use and the special conditions influencing its location in the
particular district;
b. The proposed location of buildings, parking and other facilities within the site;
c. The amount of traffic likely to be generated and how it will be accommodated;
and,
d. The influence that such factors are likely to exert on adjoining properties.
4. Following notice requirements, the special use permit will be scheduled for public
hearings by the Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council. After public
hearing, the Planning and Zoning Commission will make a recommendation to the Town
Council.
D. Notice. Prior to holding a public hearing, notice of the time and place of the hearing including a
general explanation of the matter to be considered and including a general description of the
area affected shall be given at least fifteen (15) days before the hearing in the following manner:
1. Notice shall be published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation published
or circulated in Fountain Hills.
2. One or more notices as required by the Development Services Director shall be posted
on the property. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant to erect and maintain the
posting.
3. Notice shall be sent by first class mail to each real property owner, as shown on the
current records of the County Assessor, within three hundred (300) feet of the external
boundaries of the property which for which application is made.
E. Hearings
1. The Development Services Director shall fix a reasonable time for the hearing of the
proposed special use permit and shall give notice in accordance with the Public Notice
Requirements Deadline in Section 2.02 D. of this Ordinance.
2. Any person may appear at a public hearing and submit oral or written evidence, either
individually or as a representative of a person or an organization. Each person who
appears at a public hearing shall be identified, state their name and town, and, if
appearing on behalf of a person or organization, state the name and town of the person
or organization being represented. The presiding officer may establish time limits for
individual testimony and may require that individuals with shared concerns select one
or more spokespersons to present testimony on behalf of those individuals.
3. The body conducting the hearing may cause such investigations to be made as it deems
necessary and in the public interest on any matter to be heard by it. Such investigation
may be made by a committee of one or more members of the body conducting the
hearing or by members of its staff or its agents or employees. The facts established by
such investigation shall be submitted to the body conducting the hearing either in
writing, to be filed with the records of the matter, or in testimony before the body, and
may be considered by the body in making its decision.
4. The body conducting the hearing shall cause a written summary of all pertinent
testimony heard at such public hearing, together with a record of the names and
addresses of all persons testifying, to be prepared and filed with the papers relating to
such matter.
F. Action. It is the express intent of this ordinance that any use for which a special use permit is
required shall be permitted in the particular zoning district; provided, that all special conditions
and requirements of this ordinance are met.
1. Planning and Zoning Commission. The Planning and Zoning Commission:
a. May recommend approval, approval with conditions, or denial, or may continue
a proposed amendment.
b. May for any reason, when it deems such action necessary or desirable, continue
such hearing to a time and certain place. However, if the Commission is not able
to make a recommendation to the Council at the continued meeting and the
applicant does not consent to a further continuance, the matter shall be
automatically forwarded to the Council with a recommendation for denial.
c. Shall, within sixty – (60) days after the date of the original hearing, the
Commission shall render its decision in the form of a written recommendation
to the Council.
d. In order to recommend approval of any use permit, the findings of the
Commission must be that the establishment, maintenance, or operation of the
use or building applied for will not be detrimental to the public health, safety,
peace, comfort, and general welfare of persons residing or working in the
neighborhood of such proposed use, nor shall it be detrimental or injurious to
property and improvements in the neighborhood or to the general welfare of
the Town.
e. The Commission may make such recommendations to the Town Council
concerning ways a proposed project may be acceptable and compatible to the
area which may include:
i. A “Good Neighbor Policy” describing the steps to be taken to reduce the
impacts of the use on surrounding uses.
ii. Additional landscaping, setbacks, or other similar measures to mitigate
the impact of the proposed use.
iii. Adjustments to the location of proposed uses or activities on the site.
f. Shall include the rationale for its recommendation.
2. Town Council.
a. Town Council may approve, approve with conditions, deny, or continue a
proposed amendment.
b. The action of the Council shall be final and become effective immediately.
G. Time Limits.
1. The Council may establish a time limitation for special use permits. A building permit for
the construction of any improvements allowed by any special use permit issued by the
Town Council shall be secured within six (6) months from the date of approval. Any
lapsing of the building permit prior to completion of the improvements will cause the
Special Use Permit to become null and void. Prior to the termination of this time limit,
the applicant may make a written request to the Town Council and the Council may
reconsider said use permit to determine if the permit should be reissued for an
additional time period or be terminated. There shall be no use permit fee for this
extension request.
2. No person shall reapply for the same or substantially the same use permit on the same
or substantially the same plot, lot, or parcel of land within a period of one (1) year from
the date of denial of said use permit.
H. Revocation.
1. 1. Special use permits granted in accordance with the provisions of this ordinance may
be revoked by the Town Council, if any of the conditions or terms of the permit are
violated or if any law or ordinance is violated in connection therewith. The Zoning
Administrator shall notify the permittee of a violation of a special use permit, in writing.
If the violation is not remedied or the remedy is not substantially begun in the opinion
of the Zoning Administrator within ten (10) days after notification, the owner/tenant
shall be notified that the Town Council will consider revocation of the permit at its next
meeting.
2. Any special use permit issued by the Town Council shall be considered null and void if
construction does not conform to the originally approved site plan. Any requests for
deviations from the originally approved site plan shall be processed as a new use
permit.
I. General Regulations:
1. Zoning district regulations established elsewhere in this ordinance specify that certain
buildings, structures and uses of land may be allowed by the Town Council as special
uses in a given district subject to the provisions of this section and to requirements set
forth in district regulations. The Town Council is empowered to grant and to deny
applications for use permits and to impose reasonable conditions upon them.
2. Any building, structure or use existing on the effective date of this ordinance which is
reclassified as a special use by this ordinance for the district in which it is located shall
be considered as meeting the conditions which would otherwise be imposed upon such
use by this ordinance, and its continuance shall not be subject to issuance of a special
use permit; provided, however, to the extent that such use fails to conform to the
requirements of this ordinance, it shall be considered nonconforming as described in
section 4.01, and its continuance shall be governed by all nonconforming use
regulations applicable thereto.
3. Every special use permit issued shall be applicable only to the specific use and to the
specific property for which it is issued. Upon completion and final inspection by the
Zoning Administrator of any authorized structures, signifying that all zoning and site
development requirements imposed in connection with the permit have been satisfied,
the special use permit shall thereafter be transferable and shall run with the land,
whereupon the maintenance of special conditions imposed by the permit, as well as the
compliance with other provisions of this ordinance, shall become the responsibility of
the property owner.
J. Modifications and Amendments. Following approval of a special use permit modifications and
amendment can be considered as follows:
1. Modifications. Modifications are changes to the nature of the site or approved use and
can be minor or major as described below. Minor modifications can be considered and
approved administratively by the Development Services Director. Major modifications
require review and consideration the same as described in this section for new
applications.
a. A modification is considered minor if it does not materially alter the approved
plan or other approval, will not intensify any potentially detrimental effects of
the project and is consistent with the original findings and all conditions of
approval.
b. A modification is considered major if it changes, eliminates or affects a
condition of approval (whether adopted by resolution, ordinance or otherwise)
such as a change to a discretionary permit, approved plan, or building plan or
materially alters a previous approval or plan. Additionally, any modification not
determined minor by the Development Services Director is a major
modification.
2. Amendments. Amendments are changes to the use(s) approved through the special use
permit. Amendments require review and consideration the same as described in this
section for new applications.
ITEM 8.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: 09/12/2022 Meeting Type: Planning and Zoning Commission
Agenda Type: Submitting Department: Development Services
Prepared by: John Wesley, Development Services Director
Staff Contact Information: John Wesley, Development Services Director
Request to Planning and Zoning Commission (Agenda Language): REVIEW AND DISCUSS
possible amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 7, Parking and Loading Requirements.
Staff Summary (Background)
Staff initiated a review and update to Chapter 7 of the Zoning Ordinance with a presentation to the
Commission in December 2021. At that meeting, the Commission reviewed several items listed by staff
that could be added to the existing ordinance. The Commission directed staff to investigate all the
listed items for consideration. This report provides further review and discussion of the optional items
brought up in the December report and provides the Commission with information on other changes
being considered by staff. The goal of this report is to obtain further direction from the Commission to
facilitate the drafting of an ordinance for consideration.
Overview
Clean up and re-organization. In the current ordinance there are some provisions which are
repeated several times (e.g. the size of a parking stall) and some things which are misplaced
(driveway separation from an intersection). The revisions will include correcting these types of
deficiencies. Also, many of the graphics included are difficult to read and are not properly
labeled to tie into the text. New section headings will be provided to better group and find
information.
1.
Various minor updates/changes. Staff will suggest: added language to the purpose and
applicability provision; allow Town Engineer consider alternative pavement treatments other
than asphalt or concrete; add a provision regarding maintenance of the parking lot and
landscaping; require sufficient driveway throat to reduce conflicts near entry; add more options
in parking design table, including provisions for parallel spaces; and include separate
requirements for company vehicles.
2.
Schedule of Required Parking Spaces. The current list of required parking spaces has a number of
issues, some things are not where they should be, there are some very specific uses listed and
others that are not listed, some uses base the requirement on things that change such as number
of employees. Staff is considering revamping the list of uses to a grouping that could also be
used in the permitted use section of each of the zoning districts. This will make it more clear
what the parking requirements are for given uses. Staff has compared our current ordinance
3.
requirements to both other local codes and national standards. The numbers of required
parking spaces varies widely. Staff is proposing parking requirements very similar to what is
currently required. A copy of the draft table is attached for discussion.
Previously Discussed Additions
When staff presented this topic to the Commission in December, there were several items
staff sought feedback on to see if the Commission thought there should be further study to
possibly include them in the revised ordinance. The Commission directed staff to investigate all
the ideas presented. The following is a review of each of these items. In research these topics
staff obtain ordinances from Scottsdale, Mesa, Queen Creek, Gilbert, Buckeye, and Florence
and reviewed publications discussing model ordinances.
Bicycle parking. Scottsdale, Mesa, Queen Creek and Gilbert include requirements for bicycle
parking in their ordinances. Some ordinances are very thorough and detailed with requirements
for the number of bicycle spaces, where they need to be placed, dimensions for facilities to lock
the bicycles, etc. The number of required spaces for these communities include:
Scottsdale: minimum of 2, for lots of 40 vehicle parking spaces or more, 1 bike space per
10 vehicle spaces to a maximum of 100
Mesa: minimum of 3, 1 per 10 up to 50 bike spaces then 1 per 20
Queen Creek: minimum 4 at each building entrance, range of 1 space per 10 to 1 per 30
vehicles
Gilbert: Fewer than 40 parking spaces, 4 bike spaces; 40 or more vehicle parking spaces, 4
bike spaces per entrance
Possible draft language:
Bicycle Parking. In addition to the required vehicle parking spaces, the following bicycle parking
spaces and facilities shall be required:
1. Required bicycle parking. Every principal and accessory use of land which is required to
provide at least twenty (20) vehicular parking spaces shall be required to provide bicycle
parking spaces at a rate of one (1) bicycle parking space per every ten (10) required vehicular
parking spaces. No use shall be required to provide more than twenty (20) bicycle parking
spaces.
2. Bicycle parking facilities design. Required bicycle parking facilities shall, at a minimum,
provide a stationary object to which the bicyclist can lock the bicycle frame and both wheels
with a user provided U-shaped lock or cable and lock. The parking facilities shall be located in
close proximity to entrances and other high activity areas, highly visible, active, well-lighted
areas without interfering with pedestrian movements.
Discussion:
The Town's General Plan and Active Transportation Plans encourage the use of alternative
forms of transportation and active, healthy lifestyles. Requiring developments to provide
secure places for people to lock their bikes while shopping will facilitate and encourage the use
of bikes. If this provision were added to the code, it would only be applied for new multifamily,
commercial, and industrial developments or substantial redevelopments.
Maximum parking. Mesa and Florence have provisions setting the maximum number of parking
spaces. This provision is included to limit the size of paved areas that do not see much use. Mesa
sets the maximum number at 125% of the required number, but has some built in exceptions for
sets the maximum number at 125% of the required number, but has some built in exceptions for
high intensity office developments and allows the Zoning Administrator to approve exceptions.
Florence sets the maximum at 120%. Additional can be approved by their Planning and Zoning
Commission.
Possible draft language:
Schedule of Required Parking Spaces. The table below provides the schedule for the minimum
number of parking spaces required for each type of land use. The number of parking spaces
provided by any development shall not exceed 125% of the minimum number of spaces.
Discussion:
The use of a maximum parking limit could be important to limit over-sized parking lots.
However, in Fountain Hills this is probably not a big issue. The Town does not have a lot of
existing large shopping centers and there is no land available for any new centers.
Shared use parking. Gilbert, Queen Creek, Buckeye, Florence, Scottsdale, and Mesa all have
provisions in their ordinances for shared use parking. These ordinances allow parking spaces in
mixed use areas to be double counted (i.e. meet the requirements for the office during the day
and a restaurant in the evening). The ordinances are different, but most the same basic
requirement for submission of a parking study listing the uses and peak parking demand by use.
Most require a parking agreement that ensures the common parking area will remain available
for all the users. Our zoning ordinance has a provision for shared parking in the TCCD zoning
district. We also have shared parking in Plat 208 and the CC, Common Commercial, zoning
district.
Possible draft language:
Mixed Use Developments: In the event of mixed-use developments, unless the applicant
requests the use of the Shared Parking Model provided in Section 18.11 C., the total requirement for
off-street parking spaces is the sum of the requirements of the various uses computed
separately. (Note: Most of this language exists, the underlined would be added.)
Discussion:
Providing the opportunity to utilize a shared parking model is becoming common in many
communities. The use of this model helps to encourage mixed use development and keep from
overbuilding parking lots. It can be useful for new development as well as redevelopment of
existing commercial developments.
Tandem parking. Gilbert, Buckeye, Mesa, and Scottsdale have specific provision regarding
tandem parking. Our zoning ordinance prohibits the use of tandem parking spaces in any zoning
district to meet the required number of spaces. The codes in the other communities are similar
with exceptions being allowances for tandem parking in single-family and for valet parking.
Possible draft language:
Single-family and up to 4 units:
Tandem Parking: Single-family dwellings with dedicated parking associated with the dwelling
may utilize tandem parking. In multi-residential developments tandem parking may only be
used for parking in addition to the required parking.
All other:
Tandem parking may be used for full-time valet or attended parking or, as approved by the
Zoning Administrator, for parking in addition to the required parking.
Discussion
This would be a minor change to the ordinance provisions, but would make this parking design
more available for use.
Off-site parking. Scottsdale, Mesa, and Buckeye include provisions allowing for off-site and valet
parking. All of these ordinances establish a maximum distance away for the remote parking (600'
- 1,000') and require a long term agreement from the property owner to provide the remote
parking. One requires ADA parking to still be on-site. One requires an accessible route from the
parking to the use.
Possible draft language
Remote and Valet Parking. Alternate compliance with parking requirements may be approved
through the Special Use Permit process provided in Section 2.02 of the Zoning Ordinance as
provided below.
1. Off-Site Parking. All or a portion of the required off-street parking spaces to be located on a
remote and separate lot from the lot on which the principal use is located, subject to the
standards of this Section.
a. Location. No off-site parking space may be located more than 1,000 feet from the primary
entrance of the use served, measured along the shortest legal, practical walking route. This
distance limitation may be waived if adequate assurances are offered that van or shuttle
service will be operated between the off-site parking areas and the principal use.
b. Off-Site Parking Agreement. An agreement providing for the use of off-site parking, executed
by the parties involved, must be filed with the Zoning Administrator, in an approved form.
Off-site parking privileges will continue in effect only as long as the agreement, binding on all
parties, remains in force. Agreements must guarantee long-term availability of the parking,
commensurate with the use served by the parking, and shall be recorded with the County
Recorder's Office. If an off-site parking agreement lapses or is no longer valid, then parking
must be provided as otherwise required by this Chapter or the use must terminate.
2. Valet Parking. Valet parking may be authorized as a means of satisfying up to 100 percent of
otherwise applicable off-street parking ratios. In order to approve an alternative parking plan
for valet parking the Zoning Administrator must determine that the proposal satisfies the
approval criteria of off-site parking (see 1, above) and that the valet parking will not cause
interference with the public use of rights-of-way or imperil public safety.
Discussion
The concern with this approach is that a property will develop and then lose the parking
needed to serve the business or activity. Customers would then be forced to use other
available parking in the area, either on street or in adjacent parking lots. The provision
described above should ensure that any off-site parking provided for a use will be available to
serve the use long term.
Other Possible Additions
Since completing the previous report, and as part of reviewing codes in other communities,
staff has identified several other provisions the Commission may want to include in a new
ordinance.
Electric vehicle charging. Buckeye, Mesa, and Florence include provisions for electric vehicle
charging in their parking ordinances. In Buckeye the provision states that all parking lots for 20
or more vehicles will set aside 5% for electric vehicles, hybrids or carpool. It does not specifically
state that charging facilities have to be provided. The Mesa ordinance allows an increase in the
number of compact car spaces that may be allowed as consideration for providing electric car
charging stations. Florence goes the furthest by requiring 1% of the number of space in parking
lots containing 20 or more vehicles or within 100 feet of a highway or major arterial street to
provide conduits to at least 1% of the parking spaces to allow installation of charging stations.
Possible draft language:
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. Parking lots containing twenty (20) or more spaces serving
multiple unit dwellings, or located within 100 feet of a major arterial street, shall include the
installation of conduits to at least 5% of parking spaces in anticipation of a need for electric
vehicle charging stations. Fractional parking space amounts shall be rounded up to the nearest
whole number. Upon designation of a parking space or spaces for the exclusive use of electric
vehicles, signs or markings shall be placed to give adequate notice that the parking space or
spaces are restricted and to be used only for electric vehicles.
Discussion
The need for electric vehicle charging stations is going to increase as these types of vehicles
become more common. The proposal above is similar to the Florence provision in requiring
only the conduit upfront, but increases the percentage of spaces to have conduit in
anticipation of a higher demand. This provision would only impact new development or
significant redevelopment of existing development.
Passenger pick up and loading area. While reviewing some development proposals, considering
the needs of an aging population, and the rise of services such as Uber and Lyft, staff thought it
might be beneficial to consider adding language addressing passenger drop off and loading
areas. Of the ordinances reviewed, only Florence has a provision for this type of passenger
drop-off.
Possible draft language
Passenger Pick-up and Loading Areas. As required below, passenger pick-up and loading areas
shall be provided adjacent to the primary entrance or entrances. These spaces shall be
identified/signed for this use. The required passenger pick-up and loading spaces shall be in
addition to the minimum required number of spaces listed in Table 7.06 G and the Loading and
Unloading Spaces in 7.06 H.
1. Passenger pick-up and loading areas shall consist of either vehicle turnout lanes located
outside access aisles or oversized parking stalls.
a. A parallel passenger loading space shall be 12 feet x 20 feet with a minimum 12-foot bypass
lane.
b. A 90 degree pull in passenger loading space shall be 12 feet wide by 19 feet long.
2. Passenger loading shall be provided in accordance with the following table.
Passenger Loading Requirements Use Classification Requirement
Assembly Uses 3 spaces
Cultural Institutions 1 space
Day Care Centers 3 spaces
Recreation 2 spaces
Health Care Facilities
Hospitals 2 spaces per public entrance
Urgent Care Facility 1 space
Out Patient Surgery Centers, Medical
Offices and Clinics (greater than 5,000 sf.) 2 spaces per public entrance
Hotels and Lodging 3 spaces
Multifamily 1 per 100 units
Nursing and Convalescent 1 space
Schools, Private as determined by the Town Engineer
Transportation, Passenger Terminals as determined by the Town Engineer
Discussion
As stated above, with the Town's aging population and the increase in use of ride share
options, the need for safe and accessible passenger pick up options is likely to increase. New
ordinance requirements will only impact new development and major redevelopment of
existing developments.
Covered parking. In our desert environment the inside of cars heat up quickly and become
unbearable very quickly. Further, the harsh sun deteriorates the paint. Covered parking is greatly
appreciated to help combat these impacts. Many apartment complexes and a few commercial
developments provide covered parking. Only Mesa has an ordinance requiring covered parking.
Requiring covered parking in some situations helps improve the quality of life for residents.
Possible draft language:
Residential up to 4 dwelling units:
Covered Parking: A minimum of two covered parking space shall be provided per unit.
All other:
Covered Parking. Covered parking shall be provided according to the following requirements:
1. Multiple-residence, a minimum of one covered space per unit.
2. Office use developments with at least 10 parking spaces, one covered space per office suite.
Discussion
Providing a requirement for covered parking sets a higher standard for the community. One
practical impact would be if a homeowner wants to enclose their garage as livable space, they
would need to replace that covered parking with other covered parking on their lot.
Multifamily and office developments would also be required to provide a minimum level of
covered parking. The requirement would apply to new construction and major redevelopment
of existing developments.
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle
Zoning Ordinance Chapter 7, Parking and Loading
Risk Analysis
N/A
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s)
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s)
N/A
Staff Recommendation(s)
At this meeting staff is looking for discussion and direction from the Commission as to which, if any, of
the changes listed should be included in a draft ordinance.
SUGGESTED MOTION
Staff is looking for direction from the Commission, a formal vote will not be taken.
Attachments
Proposed Parking Requirements
Schedule of Required Parking Spaces
Land Use Proposed Standard
Open space
Golf Courses 2 spaces per tee plus required spaces for
restaurant/pro shop if provided
Park Land As needed
Trails/Trailhead As needed
Undeveloped Natural Land None
Residential
Single, Attached or Detached
Duplex
2 per unit
Accessory Dwelling Unit 1 additional space
Multiple Residence
Efficiency and 1 Bedroom 1.75 per unit; ½ requirement for senior
designated housing
2 or more Bedroom 2.25 per unit; ½ requirement for senior
designated housing
Group Housing
Boarding House 2 plus one per sleeping room
Dormitory 1 per sleeping room
Home day care 2 additional off street spaces above the number
required for the primary use
Model home/sales centers 2 plus two for each model home
Non-Residential
Animal services (kennels, day care,
groomers, veterinary)
1 per 375 sq. ft. of gross floor area including
indoor kennel area
Kennel only – 1 per 500 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Assembly uses (clubs and lodges, places
of worship, theaters, event centers,
entertainment, funeral parlors,
gymnasiums, meeting rooms as part
of other uses, etc.)
Eating and drinking establishments
1 per 75 sq. ft. of gross floor area including
outdoor assembly and dining areas
Automotive uses
Automobile, truck, and RV sales and
rentals
1 per 200 sq. ft. of gross floor area plus 1 for
every 10 outdoor vehicle display spaces
Large truck and construction
equipment sales and rental
1 per 200 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Automotive repair Major – 3 per bay
Minor – 4 per bay
Schedule of Required Parking Spaces
Car wash Self-service – 2 stacking spaces behind each wash
bay, plus one space per wash bay for drying, plus
one for each vacuum, plus 1
Automatic – 5 stacking spaces before the order
box, plus one for each vacuum, plus 3
Business and office uses (professional
offices, medical offices, government
offices, maintenance facilities, banks,
contractor offices, etc.)
Business support uses (copy shops,
blueprint services, office equipment
rental, custodial services, etc.)
Community and cultural (museums,
libraries, art galleries, etc.)
Food and beverage stores (bakeries,
convenience stores, general markets,
liquor stores, catering, etc.)
Personal services (laundries, barbers,
beauty shops, etc.)
Personal Storage (“mini”-storage,
indoor and outdoor)
Studios (fine and performing arts,
includes instruction and sales of items
produced)
1 per 250 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Personal storage uses –
Requirement is for office/leasing area, plus 1 for
resident manager and 1 for every 100 storage
units. For exterior access storage units, drive
aisles may be allowed to meet the parking
requirement if of sufficient width.
Medical offices and convenience stores 1 per 200
sq. ft. of gross floor area
Child/Adult care facilities (non-
residential)
1 per 375 of gross floor area
Fueling stations 1 for every 4 fuel dispensing/charging stations
(plus requirements for convenience store if
applicable)
Hospitals 3 per patient bed (emergency and in-patient)
plus 1 per 200 sq. ft. of gross floor area for
urgent care, out-patient services, or other
associated activities
Hotels and Lodging 1.2 per guest room plus 1 per 250 sq. ft. of gross
floor area for meeting space
Landscape nurseries and materials
Art, metal and ornamental iron shops
Light Assembly/cabinet shops
Light Industrial
General Industrial
Research and testing laboratories
Wholesaling
1 per 300 sq. ft. of gross floor area plus 1 per
1,000 sq. ft. of outdoor sales and display
Schedule of Required Parking Spaces
Major Utilities
Radio and television broadcasting
Maintenance and repair services 1 per 400 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Nursing and Convalescent 1 per 3 residents maximum capacity
Recreation (bowling centers,
amusement arcades, driving ranges,
fitness centers, miniature golf, etc.)
1 per 200 sq. ft. of gross floor area plus 1 per 400
sq. ft. of outdoor activity area accessible to the
public
Retail not elsewhere classified
Rental facilities (other than automotive)
1 per 350 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Furniture and other large item stores – 1 per 500
sq. ft. of gross floor area
Add 1 per 800 sq. ft. of outdoor area used for
display
Schools
Colleges or Universities
Commercial trade schools
Industrial trade schools
Primary or secondary schools
Per parking study for non-primary or secondary
schools
Primary: 1.25 per classroom plus 1 per 200 sq. ft.
of gross floor area of office areas
Secondary: 10 per classroom plus 1 per 200 sq.
ft. of gross floor area of office areas
Outdoor Storage
Minor Utilities
1 per 500 sq. ft. of gross floor area plus 1 per
5,000 sq. ft. of area used for outdoor storage
Recycling and Salvage 1 per 300 sq. ft. of gross floor area of office or
interior customer area; plus 1 per 750 sq. ft. of
gross floor area for buildings used for processing;
plus 1 per 10,000 sq. ft. of area used for outdoor
storage