Every ten years cities, towns and counties update their “City General Plan”. Essentially, the General Plan is an agreement between the city and its residents on land use within the city. A good general plan will provide for development of the city’s character. But it also lays the foundation for zoning and will impact business and residents as it strives to find a balance between private property rights and community needs.
By definition, the general plan will impose restrictions on what a property owner may do with his property. It also discloses to residents’ specific amenities, industries and areas with specific types of development. It functions as a contract between a city and her residents.
Arizona law requires cities to adopt a long range and comprehensive general plan. If there is state land within a city, then the city and state land department must coordinate.
The city plan must define what constitutes a “Major Amendment”. It must address land uses, population density, building density, promote infill, consider air quality, and note requirements on properties in the vicinity of a military airport. There is a specific process a city must go through to adopt or amend a city plan. Next time you see a large white sign posted next to a parcel of land announcing a city meeting, take the time to read it. It will tell you what part of the city plan is being discussed for amendment.
I encourage you and your clients to participate as your city asks for input into their City General Plan Update. Below are the links to various cities, towns and counties.
Wickenburg
Surprise and Surprise Long Range Planning
Avondale and The BLVD Specific Plan
Casa Grande . Take the plan survey today!