The following rules shall apply for construing or interpreting the terms and provisions of this Development Code.

10.1.1.

Meanings and Intent. All provisions, terms, phrases, and expressions contained in this Development Code shall be construed according to the general purposes set forth in Section 1.3, Purpose of this Development Code, and the specific purpose statements set forth throughout this Development Code. When, in a specific section of this Development Code, a different meaning is given for a term defined for general purposes in this Article 10, the specific section's meaning and application of the term shall control.

10.1.2.

Headings, Illustrations, and Text. In the event of a conflict or inconsistency between the text of this Development Code and any heading, caption, figure, illustration, table, or map, the text shall control.

10.1.3.

Lists and Examples. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, lists of items or examples that use terms such as "for example," "including," and "such as," or similar language are intended to provide examples and are not exhaustive lists of all possibilities.

10.1.4.

Computation of Time. The time in which an act is to be done shall be computed by excluding the first day and including the last day. If a deadline or required date of action falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday observed by the City, the deadline or required date of action shall be the next day that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday observed by the City. References to days are calendar days unless otherwise stated.

10.1.5.

References to Other Regulations/Publications. Whenever reference is made to a resolution, ordinance, statute, regulation, or document, it shall be construed as a reference to the most recent edition of such regulation, resolution, ordinance, statute, regulation, or document, unless otherwise specifically stated.

10.1.6.

Delegation of Authority. Any act authorized by this Development Code to be carried out by a specific official of the City may be carried out by a designee of such official.

10.1.7.

Technical and Non-Technical Terms. Words and phrases shall be construed according to the common and approved usage of the language, but technical words and phrases that may have acquired a peculiar and appropriate meaning in law shall be construed and understood according to such meaning.

10.1.8.

Public Officials and Agencies. All public officials, bodies, and agencies to which references are made are those of the City of Buckeye, Arizona, unless otherwise indicated.

10.1.9.

Mandatory and Discretionary Terms. The words "shall," "must," and "will" are mandatory in nature, establishing an obligation or duty to comply with the particular provision. The words "may" and "should" are permissive in nature.

10.1.10.

Conjunctions. Unless the context clearly suggests the contrary, conjunctions shall be interpreted as follows:

"And" indicates that all connected items, conditions, provisions, or events apply; and

"Or" indicates that one or more of the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events apply.

10.1.11.

Tenses, Plurals, and Gender. Words used in the present tense include the future tense. Words used in the singular number include the plural number and the plural number includes the singular number, unless the context of the particular usage clearly indicates otherwise. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine gender, and vice versa.

(Ord. No. 28-25, § 3, 10-21-2025)

The Zoning Administrator has final authority to determine the interpretation or usage of terms used in this Development Code. Any person may request an interpretation of any term by submitting a written request to the Zoning Administrator, who shall respond in writing within 30 days. The Department shall keep a public record of all interpretations and determinations on usage of terms rendered by the Zoning Administrator. A request to appeal an interpretation may be filed in compliance with Section 8.14, Appeals and Reconsideration or Rehearing of Decisions.

(Ord. No. 28-25, § 3, 10-21-2025)

Abutting/Adjacent. The condition of two adjoining properties having a common property line or boundary including cases where two or more lots adjoin a corner, but not including cases where adjoining lots are separated by a street or alley.

Accent Material. Material covering 25 percent or less of a wall elevation.

Access/Accessway. The place, means, or way by which pedestrians and vehicles shall have safe, adequate, and usable ingress and egress to a property or use as required by this Development Code.

Accessible Parking Space. A parking space that meets the requirements of applicable state and federal disabilities acts.

Active Open Space. Land within a community that is improved and accessible to all residents, with features intended to promote recreation, social interaction, and community gathering. Active open space may include programmed parks, playgrounds, community gardens, sports courts, water amenities such as pools and splash pads, and indoor facilities like clubhouses or fitness centers. Areas of natural open space are not considered active open space unless improved with trails, seating areas, or other recreational features, subject to City approval.

Active Residential Development. A development consisting of the rent, lease, or sale of residential dwelling units in a multi-family residential project and the sale of single-family lots to the public by a homebuilder.

Affordable Housing. Property, whether owned or rented, that costs no more than 28 to 30 percent of gross household income.

Alley. A minor way that is used primarily for vehicular access to the back or side of properties otherwise abutting on a street.

Annexation. The incorporation of a land area into an existing district or municipality, with a resulting change in the boundaries of the annexing jurisdiction.

Arcade. A covered walkway, or part of a walkway, with habitable space above to provide protection (e.g., shade) from the elements and circulation space for pedestrians.

Area, Gross. The area of a lot or parcel including all dedicated streets, alleys, private accessways, roadway and/or alley easements, and canal ROW. Such boundaries shall extend to the center of existing abutting street or alley ROW. In the case of an existing partial dedication or easement, the gross area shall not extend beyond what would be the centerline of the full dedication.

Area, Net. The area of a lot or parcel excluding all fee simple dedicated streets or alleys.

Articulation. The use of design features, such as changes in wall planes, rooflines, materials, and/or windows, to break up large, flat surfaces in order to make a building more visually appealing.

Awning. An architectural feature attached to a building or other permanent structure used to enhance a storefront with a flexible or rigid covering.

Balcony. An open platform with a floor height of no less than four feet above grade, enclosed by a parapet or railing, and projecting from an exterior wall of a building.

Basement. That portion of a building underground and having at least one-half of its height measured from its floor to its ceiling below grade. A basement shall be counted as a story if the vertical distance from grade to its ceiling is more than two feet.

Berm. An earthen mound designed to screen undesirable views, decrease noise, and/or control or manage surface drainage.

Bicycle Parking Space. An area designated within a facility for the use of an individual bicycle.

Block. A piece or parcel of land or group of lots entirely surrounded by public streets, streams, railroads, or parks or a combination thereof.

Buffer. Landscaped areas, fences, berms, or any combination thereof, used to physically separate dissimilar land uses and screen or block noise, lights, buildings, or nuisances.

Building. Any substantial structure that by nature of its size, scale, bulk, dimension, or use constitutes a visual obstruction or generates activity similar to that usually associated with a building. For purposes of determining required setbacks, the term includes (i) overhead canopies or roofs covering, for example, gas pumps; and (ii) fences running along lot boundaries adjacent to public ROW that exceed six feet in height and are substantially opaque.

Building Façade Line. A line that is parallel to a lot line or public or private street curb line, as applicable, and the average distance from the lot line or curb line as the closest portion of a building.

Building Height. The vertical distance of a building measured from the finished grade directly beneath a point on the building to the highest point of the structure, measured along a straight, true vertical line (i.e. perpendicular to level grade).

Building Mass. The three-dimensional bulk of a building—height, width, and depth.

Building Official. The City Chief Building Official or designee who is charged with the administration and enforcement of the Building Code.

Building Scale. The size and proportion of a building relative to human scale, streets, surrounding buildings, and environs.

Canopy. A structural, ornamental roof-like appendage, attached to a building or that may be freestanding, including roof overhangs, but excluding awnings or metallic hoods.

Carport. A structure that is open on a minimum of two sides and designed or used to shelter not more than three vehicles and not to exceed 24 feet on its longest dimension.

Chief of Police. The Chief of the City Police Department or designee.

City. The City of Buckeye, Arizona.

City Engineer. The Engineer for the City or designee.

City Manager. The Manager of the City or designee.

CMU. Concrete masonry units.

Commercial Center. A development containing two or more retail stores, offices, restaurants, hotels, motels, and similar businesses.

Commercial Development. For purposes of this Development Code, development of any use meeting the definition of "commercial use," "offices," "places of public assembly," or "service establishment" in the Development Code, as well as any mixed-use development that combines commercial and residential uses.

Commercial Use. A use operated for profit or compensation where the general public is invited to purchase goods or services.

Common Area. Land in a residential development held in common and/or single ownership and not reserved for the exclusive use or benefit of an individual tenant or owner.

Compatibility. When the characteristics of different uses or activities are harmonious or capable of existing or working together without conflict.

Complete Application. An application that is submitted in the required form, includes all mandatory information and supporting materials specified in the application packet, and is accompanied by the applicable fee. A Pre-Application shall have been held, if required by this Development Code.

Concrete Panel Construction. A monolithic masonry wall unit, either poured in place, poured on site (commonly referred to as "tilt-wall construction"), or precast for assembly on site.

Condominium. An estate in real property consisting of an undivided interest in common in a portion of such real property, together with the right of exclusive occupancy of a unit located thereon.

Construction Trailer. A factory-assembled structure or structures exceeding eight feet in width, equipped with the necessary service connections, and originally made so as to be readily movable as a unit or units on its own running gear and designed to be used as an office without a permanent foundation, whether or not the running gear has been removed. Commonly referred to as a mobile office.

Court. An open, unobstructed space, bounded on more than two sides by the walls of a building. An inner court is entirely surrounded by the exterior walls of a building. An outer court has one side open to a street, alley, yard, or other permanent open space.

Cul-de-Sac. A street with no outlet, which terminates in a circular ROW.

Culvert. A drain, ditch, or conduit, not incorporated in a closed system, which carries drainage water under a driveway, roadway, railroad, pedestrian walk, or public way, or other type of overhead structure.

Curb. A stone, concrete, or other improved boundary marking the edge of the roadway or paved area.

Cut. Vertical removal of earthen material.

Decorative or Enhanced Paving. Paving that is made up of solid, pre-cast, decorative paving, flagstone, modular units, stamped concrete, seeded concrete, colored concrete, or similar products, or any combination of the same.

Dedication. A conveyance of fee simple or property rights at no cost to the City or another public agency.

Demolition. An act or process that removes one or more of the following from an existing building or buildings:

A.

Fifty percent or more of the roof area as measured in plan view;

B.

Fifty percent or more of the exterior walls of a building; or

C.

A street-facing façade.

Density. A ratio of the number of dwelling units to the gross land area unless otherwise stated.

Department. The City Development Services Department.

Development. Any activity that changes the use of land or makes a material change to the appearance of a structure or property. In addition, the following constitute development:

A.

Clearing of land as an adjunct of construction, including clearing or removal of vegetation or soil manipulation;

B.

Deposit of refuse, solid, or liquid waste or fill on a parcel of land;

C.

Placement of a sign;

D.

Changes or alteration of a watercourse, drainage way, or other waterway;

E.

Paving, filling, grading, or covering of land; or

F.

Parking of vehicles and/or storage of materials on a parcel or lot not previously used for such purposes.

Development Code. The City Development Code.

Director. The City Development Services Director or designee.

Disability. A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of a person's major life activities, impairs their ability to live independently or a record of having such an impairment, but such term does not include current use of, nor addiction to, alcohol or a controlled substance.

Driveway. The principal access route from a roadway adjacent to a lot to the lot's primary off-street parking area.

Dwelling. One or more rooms as a single unit used as an independent residential living facility for one family, as defined including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.

Easement. A right to use real property owned by another party for a specific, limited purpose, as established by an easement agreement or other legal instrument.

Effective Date. The date upon which this Development Code or any amendment to this Development Code is in full force and effect from and after its adoption by the City Council.

Elevation.

A.

A vertical distance above or below a fixed reference level; or

B.

A fully dimensioned drawing of the front, rear, or side of a building showing features such as windows, doors, wall materials, and relationship of grade to floor level.

Engineering Design Standards. The City Engineering Design Standards.

Engineering Plan. Plans, profiles, cross sections, reports, and other required details for the construction of public improvements prepared by a registered engineer.

Envelope, Building. The area of a lot formed by the intersection of all setback lines and between ground level and the maximum allowable building height, amounting to the three-dimensional area available for potential building construction.

Environmentally Sensitive Area. A definable area that is characterized by the presence of indigenous plants as referenced herein that has not been significantly or noticeably altered or modified through development, agriculture, or other activities associated with growth or expansion.

Equipment Building or Structure. An accessory building or structure used to house necessary equipment used by communication providers at a facility.

Erosion. The wearing away of the ground surface as a result of the movement of wind, water or ice.

Excavation. The mechanical, manual, blasting, or other means for removal of earth material.

Exterior Trademarked Design Feature. An exterior design feature, including colors, shapes, and materials, of a building that is trademarked by a building occupant.

Façade. The exterior walls of a building exposed to public view, or that wall viewed by persons not within the building.

Fascia. Any broad, flat, horizontal surface, as the outer edge of a cornice or roof. Fascia board is a wide board set vertically to cover the lower ends of rafters or the joint between the top of a wall and the projecting eaves.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA's duties include the development and administration of the Nation's Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP develops and adopts flood maps, which illustrate flood zones that are used by participating communities in regulating the location and design of buildings, utilities and other man-made improvements.

Fencing, Temporary. A movable barrier, approved by the City, installed for a limited duration to secure a site, control access, or ensure safety during construction, events, or other short-term activities.

Fill. Vertical addition of earthen material.

Final Inspection. Field inspection conducted by the City prior to project acceptance or issuance of a Certificate of Completion or Certificate of Occupancy.

Fire Chief. The Chief of the City Fire Department or designee.

Floor Area. The total square feet of floor space within the outside dimensions of a building including each floor level, but excluding carports, residential garages, and breezeways.

Freestanding. Any structure that is not attached to any other structure or portion of a structure. Structures that are linked by pedestrian walkways are deemed to be freestanding. Freestanding shall also apply to sole uses on an individual parcel.

Frontage. All property on one side of a street between two intersecting streets (crossing or terminating) measured along the line of the street, or, if the street is a dead end, then all of the property abutting on one side between an intersecting street and the dead end of the street, including property fronting on a cul-de-sac.

Gallery. A private frontage typically used in retail applications where the façade is aligned close to a building frontage or property line with an attached cantilevered shed roof or a lightweight colonnade overlapping the sidewalk to provide protection (e.g., shade) from the elements and circulation space for pedestrians.

Garage, Detached. An enclosed accessory building not attached to a main building, used for storage of automobiles, and used solely by the occupants and their guests.

Garage, Parking. See "parking structure."

General Plan. The General Plan of the City.

Glazing. The panes or sheets of glass or other material intended to be set in frames, as in windows or doors.

Grade. The elevation of the ground surface, paving, or sidewalk.

Grading. The initial clearing, brushing, or grubbing, and subsequent excavating, or filling of a site.

Grading Permit. An official document issued by the City authorizing the grading activity specified by the grading permit conditions.

Gross Floor Area. The sum of the gross areas of the several floors of a building or buildings, measured from the exterior faces of exterior walls or from the centerlines of walls separating two buildings. Gross floor area shall not include:

A.

Underground parking space;

B.

Uncovered steps; and

C.

Exterior balconies.

Ground Cover. A low growing, woody, or herbaceous vine or grass-like material primarily used to cover large areas of ground. The term "ground cover" also means a plant species that normally reaches a height of less than three feet upon maturity, installed in such a manner so as to form a continuous cover over the ground.

Guideline. An indication of policy or preferences; compliance is not mandatory like a standard, but rather compliance is encouraged to further the City's land-use goals and policies.

Gutter. A shallow channel, usually set along a curb or the pavement edge of a road or the edge of a building roof, for purposes of catching and carrying off water.

Habitat. Land area that supports plant or animal species protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act and/or other federal or state laws or regulations.

Homeowners Association (HOA). An organization established for the ownership, care, and maintenance of private common areas, private streets, and other private facilities. HOAs are organizations in a subdivision or planned community that create and enforce rules for the properties within the community.

Home Occupation. A commercial activity conducted entirely within a dwelling or accessory structure in a residential zoning district that can be conducted without a significant adverse impact on the surrounding neighborhood.

Illuminance. A measure of the amount of light intercepting an object at a given distance from a light source measured in footcandles.

Impervious Surface. An impervious surface is a surface through which water cannot penetrate, such as a road, sidewalk, or paved parking lot. The amount of impervious surface increases with development and establishes the need for drainage facilities to carry the increased runoff.

Improvement District (ID). A district comprised of property owners who desire improvement to their properties, such as water, sewer, or roadway infrastructure, which are financed through bonds, ad valorem, or equally apportioned secondary taxes in accordance with A.R.S. Title 48.

Industrial Development. Development of any use primarily associated with heavy equipment, tractor trailers, material storage or processing, warehousing, manufacturing, or chemical processing, where the general public is not invited to be part of the primary on-site activities.

Infill Development. Development of vacant or underutilized land (usually individual lots or leftover properties) within areas that are largely developed.

Infrastructure. Facilities and services needed to sustain land use activities. Infrastructure includes, but is not limited to, water lines, sewer lines, and other utilities, streets and roads, communications, and public facilities, such as fire stations, parks, schools, and other similar type uses.

Inspector. A person authorized by the City to examine buildings, sites, infrastructure, or operations to ensure compliance with applicable codes, regulations, standards, or permit conditions.

Irrigation System. An underground automatic watering system, which consists of heads, valves, pipes, etc., used for the sole purpose of sustaining and promoting plant life. This definition shall also apply to drip and soaker hose irrigation.

Landscape Buffer. A combination of physical space and vertical elements such as plants, berms, fences, and/or walls, the purpose of which is to separate and/or screen dissimilar land uses from each other.

Landscape Screening. An area of landscaping featuring trees, shrubs, groundcover, and topping material such as boulders, rock, stone, granite or other approved material, the purpose of which is to obscure or block views into adjacent areas.

Land Use. The type of development activity or function conducted on a parcel of land or within a building, as regulated by the zoning district in which it is located. This includes the principal use, accessory uses, and conditional or temporary uses, as identified in this Development Code.

Light Fixture, Fully Shielded. Light fixture or luminous tube constructed and mounted such that all light emitted by the fixture or tube, either directly from the lamp, tube, or a diffusing element, or indirectly by reflection or refraction from any part of the light fixture, is projected below the horizontal. If the lamp or tube, any reflective surface, or lens cover (clear or prismatic) is visible when viewed from above or directly from the side, from any angle around the fixture or tube, the fixture or tube is not fully shielded.

Light Fixture, Partially Shielded. A light fixture constructed and mounted such that most light emitted by the fixture, either directly from the lamp or a diffusing element, or indirectly by reflection or refraction from any part of the fixture, is projected below the horizontal. Light emitted at or above the horizontal direction (sideways or upwards) arises only from incidental decorative elements or strongly colored or diffusing materials such as "honey" or colored glass or plastic. Fixtures using spot or flood lamps are considered partially shielded unless they meet the definition for a fully shielded light fixture.

Light Fixture, Unshielded. A light fixture that is not fully shielded or partially shielded.

Lighting, Class 1. All outdoor lighting used for applications where color rendition is required to preserve the effectiveness of an activity.

Lighting, Class 2. All outdoor lighting used for applications where general illumination for safety or security of the grounds is the primary concern.

Lighting, Class 3. Any outdoor lighting used for decorative purposes.

Light Trespass. Light falling across property boundaries onto property not containing the original light source.

Loading Space. An off-street space or berth used for the delivery and loading or unloading of vehicles.

Lot Area. The total area, measured on a horizontal plane, included within lot lines.

Lot Coverage. The total structural coverage provided on a lot or site inclusive of all roofed areas, including roof overhangs or projections, or structures capable of supporting a roof divided by the net area of the lot.

Lot Depth. The average horizontal distance between the front and rear lot lines.

Lot Frontage. That horizontal dimension of a lot or portion of a lot abutting on a street.

Lot Line. The lines bounding lots defined as follows:

A.

Front Lot Line. The property line directly abutting a public or private street. For properties abutting multiple streets, the front lot line shall be the property line abutting the street of higher functional classification. If all abutting streets are of the same classification, the owner shall designate the front lot line, subject to approval by the City. For flag lots, the front lot line shall be the lot line closest to and most parallel with the accessway at the end of the access stem, as determined by the City.

B.

Rear Lot Line. The lot line most parallel to the front lot line. For three-sided lots, the point opposite the front lot line shall be considered the rear lot line.

C.

Side Lot Line. Any lot lines not the front or rear lot line.

Lot Types.

A.

Corner Lot. A lot that has at least two adjacent sides abutting on a street, provided that the interior angle at the intersection of such two sides is less than 135 degrees.

B.

Double Frontage Lot. A lot, sometimes called a through lot, having a frontage on two nonintersecting streets, as distinguished from a corner lot.

C.

Flag (Panhandle) Lot. A lot having access to a street or alley by means of a width less than the minimum required lot width, but not less than 12 feet.

D.

Interior Lot. A lot other than a corner lot.

E.

Key Lot. A corner lot that is so designated that the lots located directly behind it face the side street of the corner lot and are not separated by an alley.

F.

Reversed Frontage. A key lot, or the first lot to the rear of a corner lot, the front lot line of which is a continuation of the side lot line of the corner lot and fronting on the street that intersects the street upon which the corner lot fronts and/or that faces the street upon which the side of a corner lot abuts.

Lot Width. The width of the lot shall be:

A.

If the side lot lines are parallel, the distance between these side lot lines.

B.

If the side lot lines are not parallel, the length of a line at right angles to the axis of the lot at a distance equal to the front setback required for the district in which the lot is located. The axis of a lot shall be a line joining the midpoints of the front and rear lot lines.

Lumen. The unit used to measure the actual amount of light which is produced by a lamp.

Luminance. An objective measurement of the brightness of illumination, measured in candelas per square foot (cd/ft ² ) or nits.

Maintenance Improvement District (MID). A district where residents are charged through property taxes to cover maintenance costs for landscaping, irrigation, and drainage should an HOA be disbanded.

Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG). A council of governments, serving as the regional agency for the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. MAG is also the metropolitan planning organization for the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, tasked with transportation and air quality planning for the region.

Masonry Construction Materials. Materials that include, but are not limited to, brick, stone, concrete masonry units, stucco, and concrete-panel construction.

Maximum Extent Feasible. Under the circumstances, no feasible and prudent alternative exists, and all possible efforts to comply with the regulation or minimize potential harm or adverse impacts have been undertaken.

Maximum Extent Practicable. Under the circumstances, reasonable efforts have been undertaken to comply with the regulation or requirement, the costs of compliance clearly outweigh the potential benefits to the public or would unreasonably burden the proposed project, and reasonable steps have been undertaken to minimize any potential harm or adverse impacts.

Mechanical Equipment. All devices, appliances, and apparatus used to maintain environmental conditions within a building or structure, including swimming pools and spas. Mechanical equipment includes, but is not limited to, HVAC units, air conditioners, pool heaters, pool filters, and pool circulation pumps.

Model Home Complex. A group of dwellings temporarily utilized as an example of the dwellings which have been built or which are proposed to be built in the same subdivision.

National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The U.S. government's official list of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation.

Native. Indigenous to the specific site or to areas contiguous to a parcel being developed.

Natural Resources. Environmental and ecological assets; the land, water, plants, and animals that sustain us and enhance our quality of life. Planning for natural resources means planning for natural resource protection, including conservation, quality protection measures, and improved development practices.

Natural Grade. The topographic configuration of land prior to any grading or other human disturbance of the site.

Net Floor Area. For the purpose of determining parking requirements, the total floor area of a building measured from the interior faces of load-bearing walls, excluding air shafts, stairwells, elevator shafts, restrooms, mechanical equipment rooms, atriums, and other such features as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

Neighborhood. A localized geographic area used to describe a subarea of a community that has common character such as natural or historic character or is tied to a common local landmark, such as a church, school, or other asset.

Outdoor Gathering Space. Open air or semi-enclosed public space intended for the benefit of residents, employees, or visitors to a site.

Pad-Site Building. A building that is intended for a single commercial use and that is physically separate from the principal or primary building on the site. The term is typically used in the context of retail shopping center development.

Parapet Wall. A wall extending above the plate line of a building, typically provided for purposes of architectural embellishment and/or to screen roof-mounted equipment.

Parking Aisle. The aisles on which vehicles are allowed access to the individual parking stalls which are characterized by slow speeds and a high number of turning movements.

Parking Space. A permanently surfaced area enclosed or unenclosed, connected to a street or alley by a permanently surfaced driveway permitting ingress or egress of an automobile.

Parking Structure. A structure or portion thereof that is fully or partially enclosed, composed of one or more levels or floors, and used exclusively for the parking or storage of motor vehicles.

Pedestrian Way. A public walk dedicated entirely through a block, from street to street, or providing access to a school, park, recreation area, or shopping center.

Permeable Pavement. A special type of asphalt or concrete prepared to allow water to deliberately infiltrate through it to the ground below.

Person. A natural person, a corporation, a partnership, an association, a trust, or any other entity or any combination thereof.

Planned Area Development (PAD). A customizable zoning district intended to facilitate innovative and flexible development that results in a higher-quality built environment than what would be achievable through the application of conventional zoning regulations alone. PADs are typically used to accommodate integrated mixed-use projects, unique site constraints, or master planned communities, and are subject to a specific development plan that governs land uses, densities, design standards, and other site-specific regulations.

Planning Unit Plan. A conceptual plan associated with a PAD which typically identifies land uses, design character, or other standards or guidelines for each subarea (planning unit) within the PAD.

Planning and Zoning Commission. A volunteer body of City residents appointed by the City Council, responsible for reviewing and making recommendations or final decisions on certain development-related applications, as specified in this Development Code.

Population Density. The number of people living within a square mile area.

Portable Storage Container. A device in the shape of a rectangular solid; constructed of metal, consisting of four vertical walls, a floor and a ceiling and in which at least one vertical end is designed as a door and not permanently affixed to the ground. Portable storage containers include devices initially designed to facilitate the shipping of containerized cargo and constructed entirely of steel in a manner consistent with ISO 6346, and are being reused to facilitate secure storage, but not designed as a building or habitable space as defined in the Building Code unless converted through the permit process.

Primary or Principal Building. The building or structure on a non-residential development site used to accommodate the majority of the principal permitted use(s). When there are multiple buildings on a commercial development site, such as in a shopping center, the primary or principal building shall be the one containing the greatest amount of gross floor area. Buildings sited on pad sites or free-standing kiosk/ATM machines cannot be "primary" or "principal" buildings.

Principal or Primary Entrance. The place of ingress and egress most frequently used by the public, and which is most visible and most easily identifiable from the principal street.

Pristine. For purposes of the native plant protection requirements of this Development Code, means unaltered from its naturally occurring state, not spoiled, corrupted, or polluted.

Public Art. Sculptures, paintings, murals, and other forms of artwork are placed in public spaces or in public view to enrich and add visual interest to the built environment.

Public Works Director. The Director of the City Public Works Department or designee.

Quality of Life. The general well-being of residents as influenced by the built environment, including factors such as public safety, access to parks and open space, aesthetic character, traffic and noise levels, air and water quality, and the compatibility of land uses. Zoning regulations help protect and enhance quality of life by promoting orderly development, minimizing land use conflicts, and supporting a healthy, attractive, and functional community.

Redevelopment. The process of building new construction on a site that has pre-existing, non-agricultural uses, or renovating existing uses on a site.

Restricted-Affordable Dwelling Unit. A dwelling unit that, either through a deed restriction or a Development Agreement with the City, must be rented to households earning no more than 80 percent of the area median income.

Retaining Wall. A wall designed to withstand lateral and hydrostatic pressures and built to keep earth from sliding.

Right-of-Way (ROW). A strip of land dedicated to the public and occupied or intended to be occupied by a street, crosswalk, railroad, electric transmission line, oil or gas pipeline, water main, sanitary or storm sewer main, or for another public use. The usage of the term "ROW" for land platting purposes means that every ROW hereafter established and shown on a final plat is to be separate and distinct (e.g. fee simple dedication) from the lots or parcels adjoining such ROW and are not included within the dimensions or areas of such lots or parcels (e.g. ROW easements). "ROW" intended for streets, crosswalks, water mains, sanitary sewers, storm drains, or any other use involving maintenance by a public agency shall be dedicated to public use by the maker of the plat on which such ROW is established.

Run-off. Stormwater that is held up on the land surface instead of seeping into the ground. This water either evaporates or "runs off" across the land to nearby washes, rivers, streams or human made diversion structures.

RV Garage. A garage designed to accommodate the size and mass of an RV, motorhome, travel trailer or camper.

Screen. An opaque barrier designed and installed to conceal areas used for storage, refuse, mechanical equipment, parking, or delivery service loading bays from street and public view, and/or to provide visual separation between adjacent uses.

Screen Wall. An approved structure or fence intended to minimize adverse impacts associated with contiguous or adjacent land uses, or effects of site operations such as dumpsters.

Seasonal Lighting Decoration. Low voltage lighting displays that are installed for seasonal holidays.

Setback. The required minimum or maximum distance between the building line and the related front, side, or rear lot line and over which no part of any building may extend, except as otherwise provided. When the property abuts a dedicated ROW or separate parcel, the distance shall be measured from the future ROW line or common parcel line. When the property abuts a private street, the distance shall be measured from the back of the tract or easement used for the private accessway.

Setback, Streetside. The required minimum or maximum distance between the building line and any lot line abutting a public street and over which no part of any building may extend, except as otherwise provided. The distance shall be measured from the future ROW line or common parcel line.

Sewer. Any pipe or conduit used to collect and carry away sewage or stormwater runoff from the generating source to treatment plants or receiving streams.

Sidewalk. A paved surface separated from the street and used as a pedestrian walkway.

Slope. The steepness or incline of land, expressed either as a percentage or as a ratio of horizontal distance to vertical rise. A slope is calculated by dividing the vertical rise by the horizontal run and multiplying by 100 to determine the percentage (e.g., a 25 percent slope). Alternatively, slope may be expressed as a ratio (e.g., 4:1), indicating four feet of horizontal distance for every one foot of vertical rise.

Solid Waste. Any discarded material that is non-liquid, non-soluble, including garbage or refuse, organic or inorganic, whether recyclable or non-recyclable.

Standard. A definite rule, principle, or measure with which compliance is mandatory. A development application may be denied for failure to meet one or more standards established by this Development Code.

Stormwater. Water that originates during precipitation events and snow/ice melt.

Street. A ROW other than an alley, dedicated or otherwise legally established for public use, usually affording the principal means of access to abutting property.

Street, Arterial. A major roadway intended to carry high volumes of traffic over longer distances, providing primary connections between freeways, highways, and major activity centers. Arterial streets prioritize through traffic movement over local access and typically feature higher speed limits, limited driveways, and signalized intersections.

Street, Collector. A roadway that provides intermediate connectivity by collecting traffic from local streets and distributing it to arterial streets. Collector streets can serve both residential neighborhoods and commercial areas with moderate traffic volumes, lower speeds, and more frequent access points than arterials.

Street Light Improvement District (SLID). A district for the purpose of purchasing electrical power for the use of public lighting facilities within City ROW and are assessed through property taxes.

Street, Local. A street primarily intended to provide direct access to adjacent properties and serve short-distance, low-speed travel within neighborhoods. Local streets carry low traffic volumes and are not intended for through traffic or regional connectivity.

Street, Principal. The street adjacent to a lot or site with the highest classification, as described in Section 6-3 of the Engineering Design Standards.

Street, Private. A platted street providing limited local traffic circulation among adjacent lots which is privately owned and maintained, contained within a private street tract, and constructed in compliance with the requirements of this Development Code.

Street-Facing Façade. A wall of a building that is within 60 degrees of parallel to a street lot line; and is not behind another wall, as determined by measuring perpendicular to the street lot line.

Street Furniture. Those features associated with a street that are intended to enhance the street's physical character and be used by pedestrians, such as benches, trash receptacles, and kiosks.

Structure. Anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires location on the ground or attachment to something having location on the ground. Permanent structures exclude tents, vehicles, and travel trailers.

Substantial Conformance. A determination that a proposed development, site plan, or building permit is materially consistent with an approved plan, zoning entitlement, or development agreement, even if minor deviations exist. Such deviations must not alter the overall character, land use mix, density, circulation, or other key components of the originally approved plan by more than ten percent, must not significantly impact surrounding properties, and must comply with applicable development standards and conditions of approval. Determination of substantial conformance shall ultimately be subject to the discretion of the Zoning Administrator and/or the City Engineer.

Sustainable Development. Development that minimizes environmental impact, supports long-term resource efficiency, and promotes a balanced relationship between land use, infrastructure, and natural systems to ensure the well-being of current and future residents.

Sustainable Roof. A "cool roof" that has a solar reflectance index of 78 for flat roofs, or 29 for roofs with a slope greater than 2:12; or a vegetated roof that includes vegetation on at least 50 percent of the roof area of all buildings in the project, and that uses only drought-tolerant landscaping.

Traffic Calming. Measures that make permanent, physical changes to streets to slow traffic and/or reduce volumes.

Transit. A system of regularly scheduled buses and/or rail available to the public on a fee per-ride basis.

Transportation Master Plan (TMP). A planning document that provides long-term guidance for the planning of roadway, transit, and non-motorized transportation projects.

Unified Development. A large development with a comprehensive and consistent development theme typically composed of retail, office, and other commercial businesses. Such developments share access, parking and circulation and are typically designed as regional entertainment, employment or commercial destinations and are often collectively marketed and identified. This definition includes shopping centers with a gross floor area of over 100,000 square feet, auto malls, business parks, and industrial parks.

Unsalvageable Plant. A protected native plant that cannot be successfully relocated due to deteriorated health from disease, infestation, or natural causes, or physical constraints related to plant location, orientation, or general condition which obstruct and/or prevent the application of approved relocation techniques.

Wash. A watercourse that flows during flood events or intermittently that often serves as a wildlife corridor.

Wastewater. Spent or used water with dissolved or suspended solids, discharged from homes, commercial establishments, farms, and industries.

Wildlife Corridor. (Or wildlife linkage) an area of undeveloped habitat used by wildlife to move between or within habitat blocks to complete activities necessary for survival and reproduction. Corridors are preserved or may be constructed to allow passage for wildlife through developed areas.

Xeriscape. Water-conserving landscape designs that take into account soil and drainage factors, microclimates, grouping of plants with similar water use requirements, efficient irrigation systems, native vegetation, paving permeability, and low-water-using and drought tolerant vegetation. Xeriscape landscaping is not intended to solely describe cactus, rocks and gravel, nor shall "xeri" be interpreted to mean zero.

Yard. An open space on the same lot with a building, unoccupied and unobstructed by any portion of a structure from the ground upward, except as otherwise provided herein. In measuring a yard for the purpose of determining the width of side yard, the depth of a front yard or the depth of a rear yard, the minimum horizontal distance between the lot line and the main building shall be used.

Yard, Front. A yard extending across the front lot line between the side lot lines, and being the minimum horizontal distance between the front lot line and the front wall of any building.

Yard, Rear. A yard extending across the rear lot line between the side lot lines, and being the minimum horizontal distance between the rear lot line and the rear wall of the main building. The rear yard shall in all cases be at the opposite end of the lot from the front yard.

Yard, Side. A yard between the main building and the side-line of the lot, and being the minimum horizontal distance between the building and the side lot line and extending from the front lot line to the rear lot line.

Zoning. Describes the regulatory control of the use of land, and buildings within a jurisdictional boundary. Areas of land are divided by appropriate authorities into zones within which various uses are permitted and regulated.

Zoning Administrator. The City Zoning Administrator or designee as authorized in this Development Code and A.R.S § 9-462.05.C.

(Ord. No. 28-25, § 3, 10-21-2025)

Electronic Message Display. A sign or portion of a sign that is capable of changing by electronic or automatic means the characters, letters, numbers, illustrations, display, color, and/or light intensity.

Flag. A piece of fabric or other flexible material, with distinctive colors and patterns, customarily mounted on a pole or similar freestanding structure, or on a pole mounted on a building.

Illumination, Direct. Illumination resulting from light emitted directly from a light bulb or light fixture, not light diffused through translucent signs or reflected from other surfaces such as the ground or building face.

Illumination, External. Illumination on the face of the sign reflecting light from an external light source intentionally directed upon it.

Illumination, Internal. A form of internal sign illumination that includes cabinet signs, single-color LED signs, signs constructed with pan channel letters, or indirect halo illuminated channel letters on an unlit or otherwise indistinguishable background on a freestanding sign or building wall.

Illumination, Halo. Illumination produced by recessing a light source inside a hollow character with an open back or within the surface to which sign letters are mounted. An outline glow around the characters is created by this light reflecting off the background to which the characters are attached.

Logo. A graphic image or words representing an organization, product, or business in the form of a stylized group of letters, words, numbers, or symbols.

Luminance. The light that is emitted by a light source or reflected from a surface, measured in foot-lamberts or nits. See also "illuminance."

Monument Sign Base. The base of a freestanding monument sign that supports the signage mounted above the base.

Neon. A type of illumination emanating from a luminous glass tube filled with a gas or gas mixture (including neon, argon, mercury, or other gases), usually of small diameter (10—15 millimeters), caused to emit light by the passage of an electric current, and commonly bent into various forms for use as decoration or signs. Does not include common fluorescent tubes.

Noncommercial Message. Any copy that communicates a message that is not a commercial message. A noncommercial message does not directly or indirectly name, draw attention to, or advertise a business, product, good, service, or other commercial activity, or propose a commercial transaction.

Professionally Crafted. A temporary or permanent sign that is made to a high standard by a competent individual(s) skilled in sign design, fabrication, and installation.

Raceway. An enclosed conduit for electrical wiring.

Sign. A permanent or temporary structure, device, figure, display, message placard or other contrivance, or any part thereof, situated outdoors or indoors, which is designed, constructed, intended or used to advertise, provide information in the nature of advertising, provide historical, cultural, archaeological, ideological, political, religious, or social information, or direct or attract attention to an object, person, institution, business, product, service, message, event or location by any means, including words, letters, figures, designs, symbols, fixtures, colors, or illumination.

Sign Face. The exterior surface of a sign, exclusive of structural supports, on which is placed the sign copy.

Sign, Abandoned. A sign that identifies a business, lessor, owner, product, service, or activity that is no longer on the premises where the sign is displayed.

Sign, Accessory. A permanent sign which is subordinate to a permitted use of a lot or building that provides accessory or supplemental information, such as a building directory or directions to various uses or facilities.

Sign, Active Residential Development. A sign for an active residential development.

Sign, A-Frame. A portable pedestrian-oriented sign that is not permanently affixed to a structure or the ground to advertise special goods, services, or products offered on the site (also known as a Sandwich Board Sign or an Upright Sign).

Sign, Awning. Any permanent sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy, or other fabric, plastic or structural protective cover located over a door, entrance, window, storefront, or outdoor service area.

Sign, Balloon Bobber. A reusable pre-formed balloon with regular air made of a durable PVC vinyl that does not need to be inflated and typically attached to a short pole.

Sign, Bandit. Any sign that is placed on public or private property without the consent of the property owner or as authorized in Section 5.11, Signs. (Syn. Snipe Sign).

Sign, Banner. A temporary sign constructed of cloth, bunting, plastic, paper, or similar material and securely attached to a wall or support structure. Flags are not considered temporary banners.

Sign, Billboard. An off-premise permanent structure for the large format display of a commercial or non-commercial message intended for viewing from extended distances, generally more than 50 feet. A billboard includes a digital billboard and a non-digital billboard.

Sign, Blade. A permanent sign that is perpendicular to the face of a building and projects outward from the building face. Also known as a vertical projecting sign.

Sign, Building Mounted. A permanent sign attached, connected, painted, or erected on the wall, parapet, or fascia of a building or structure.

Sign, Cabinet. A permanent building-mounted or freestanding sign with its text and/or logo, symbols, and artwork on a panel that is mounted within a metal frame or cabinet that contains the lighting fixtures to illuminate the sign face from behind.

Sign, Canopy. A permanent sign that is printed, painted, or affixed to a canopy and used to accent building entries.

Sign, Changeable Copy. A permanent sign that is designed so that characters, letters, numbers, or illustrations can be manually or mechanically changed or rearranged without altering the face or surface of the sign.

Sign, Channel Letter Sign. A sign made with three dimensional, individually manufactured letters, figures, or other symbols which may contain a light source that illuminates the front face of the sign's letters, figures, or other symbols.

Sign, Commemorative. Any sign containing words or figures commemorating a historical, cultural, or artistic event or location.

Sign, Community Kiosk. A permanent freestanding City-owned sign that provides directional information to community facilities and attractions and residential development, including mobile home parks and apartment developments.

Sign, Digital Billboard. An off-premise permanent structure for the display of a commercial or non-commercial message using a computer-controlled LED display, capable of displaying images, text, and other content that can be digitally changed remotely or automatically.

Sign, Electronic Message Display. A permanent sign or portion of a sign that utilizes an electronic message display (see the definition of electronic message display).

Sign, Freestanding. A permanent sign that is erected or mounted on its own self-supporting permanent structure or base detached from any supporting elements of a building

Sign, Freestanding Pennant. A portable sign that is taller than it is wide and made of a flexible material (typically cloth, nylon, or vinyl) and mounted to a pole.

Sign, Freestanding Projecting. A permanent freestanding sign type featuring a double or single sided sign face, projecting outward at a perpendicular angle from a sign pole or post.

Sign, Freeway-Oriented Identification Sign. A permanent sign in the Interstate 10 and State Route SR85 corridor, i.e., a zone measuring 1,320 feet from the centerline of I-10 and SR85. This may be expanded to include signs in the future State Route 30 corridor, once the future ROW is known.

Sign, Fuel Pump Topper. A sign affixed to the top of an operable fuel dispensing pump used to advertise goods offered for sale on the same parcel on which the fuel pump is located.

Sign, Incidental. A sign which provides incidental information, including security, credit card acceptance, business hours, open/closed, directions to services and facilities, or menus and excluding menu board signs for drive-through restaurants.

Sign, Individual Letter. A cut-out or etched letter or logo which is individually mounted on a building wall, or freestanding sign.

Sign, Landmark. A historically designated sign determined by the City to have attained a high degree of community, cultural, aesthetic, or historic designation and significance.

Sign, Landscape Wall. A sign consisting of individual letters mounted on a perimeter wall which may be attached or detached from a building, but which is architecturally integrated with an overall development.

Sign LED. A permanent sign consisting of light emitting diodes (electronic components that let electricity pass in only one direction) that emit visible light when electricity is applied. May be one-color, two-color, or more than one color LED displays.

Sign, Marquee. A permanent sign structure placed over the entrance to a building and customarily used for a theater or other entertainment use.

Sign, Monument. A permanent freestanding sign, with a solid base that is equal to or larger than the width of the sign face.

Sign, Neighborhood Kiosk. A freestanding sign owned and maintained by a homeowners association that provides directional information to community facilities and attractions.

Sign, Nonconforming. Any permanent sign legally established prior to the effective date which does not fully comply with the standards imposed by the individual sections of this Development Code.

Sign, Non-Digital Billboard. A permanent off-premise structure for the display of a commercial or non-commercial message that does not use any computer-controlled LED displays. Non-digital billboards may be non-illuminated or externally illuminated. (Syn. Static billboard).

Sign, Off-Premises. Any sign that directs attention to a business, commodity, service, entertainment, product, structure, use or property different from a structure or use existing on the property where the sign is located, and/or any sign on which space is rented, donated, or sold by the owner of said sign or property for the purpose of conveying a message.

Sign, Painted Wall. A permanent sign painted directly onto the exterior wall of a building and having no sign structure.

Sign, Pan Channel Letters. A sign made with three dimensional, individually manufactured letters, figures, or other symbols with a closed back which may contain a light source to provide light through a translucent panel on the front of the sign letters, figures, or symbols.

Sign, Pennant. A sign made of flexible materials usually longer than it is wide, often triangular in shape, and frequently displayed with other pennants on a string.

Sign, Permanent. A sign constructed of durable materials and intended to exist for the duration of time that the use or occupant is located on the premises.

Sign, Political. A sign allowed in compliance with A.R.S. §16-1019 designed to influence the action of voters for the passage or defeat of a measure, question or issue, or the election or defeat of a candidate for a public office at a national, state, local, or other election.

Sign, Portable. A sign not permanently attached to the ground, a building, structure, or other immovable object that can be readily removed. Includes A-frame signs, upright signs, yard sign type I signs, non-permanent window signs, feather banners, and sign walker signs.

Sign, Post. A permanent sign mounted on either a single post or two or more posts.

Sign, Prohibited. Any sign not in accordance with or authorized in Section 5.11, Signs.

Sign, Reverse Pan Channel Letters. A sign made with three dimensional, individually manufactured letters, figures, or other symbols with an open back which may contain a light source to provide light onto the sign background against which the channel letters are silhouetted. (Syn. Halo-Illuminated Letters).

Sign Rider. A small sign that is mounted underneath, on top of, or next to a portable sign or temporary sign that is frequently utilized by realtors to display supplemental information.

Sign, Roof-Mounted. Any permanent or temporary sign erected, painted, or attached on or over the roof of a building.

Sign, Service Island Canopy. A permanent sign mounted on or under a service island canopy, including on a fascia.

Sign, Single-Color or Two-Color. A permanent or temporary sign or portion of a sign composed of single-color or two-color LEDs that displays static or changeable sign messages using characters, letters, and numbers only. Examples of these signs include, but are not limited to, "open" or "closed" signs, "time and temperature" signs, or signs indicating the number of available spaces in a parking facility.

Sign, Spinner. A lightweight, durable, and colorful device designed to be affected by the movement of air so that it spins or rotates in a manner to capture attention.

Sign, Temporary. A sign intended for a limited period of display which is affixed to the ground, a structure or a window. Includes a banner sign and yard sign type II and type III signs, balloons and inflatables, and temporary model home complex/active residential development signs.

Sign, Temporary Model Home Complex. Temporary signs used to advertise dwellings temporarily utilized as an example of the dwellings which have been built or which are proposed to be built in the same subdivision.

Sign, Vehicular. Any sign on or attached or affixed to a truck, van, automobile, trailer, or other vehicle.

Sign, Upright. See Sign, A-Frame.

Sign, Wall. A permanent sign affixed to or erected against the wall or parapet of a building with the exposed face of the sign parallel to the plane of wall or parapet to which it is affixed or erected.

Sign, On-Site. A sign whose message and design relates to a business, profession, product, service, event, or other commercial activity sold, offered, or conducted on the same property or unified development where the sign is located.

Sign, Walker. A person who wears, holds, or balances a sign.

Sign, Window. A permanent or non-permanent sign posted, painted, placed, or affixed in, on, or within a window, or otherwise exposed to public view through a window.

Sign, Yard, Type I. A small portable sign typically constructed of corrugated plastic and supported on an H-shaped wire frame used for example, for advertising by local businesses or by election campaigns. (Syn: Lawn Sign).

Sign, Yard, Type II. A temporary sign mounted on a single post installed securely in the ground with a small sign hanging from a cross-bar mounted parallel to the ground.

Sign, Yard, Type III. A temporary large typically wooden sign mounted on two posts installed securely in the ground.

Sign Structure. The supports, uprights, bracing, and/or framework of a sign.

Static Message or Display. Means a sign face that does not change within a 24-hour period.

Valance. The vertical front face of an awning, parallel to the face of the building to which it is mounted.

(Ord. No. 28-25, § 3, 10-21-2025)