New state laws, effective in January, will require cities to allow casitas and the conversion of eligible commercial, office, or mixed-use buildings for multi-family homes.
Now Scottsdale is seeking public input to update its zoning code, which includes some state-allowed restrictions.
Scottsdale opposed the laws, arguing during the legislative process that local governments are better able to handle housing issues, while balancing community opinion and the “character” of the town.
But now it must comply by January.
Scottsdale seeks to add city-specific restrictions to limit which areas or buildings will be affected by those laws.
In two city-made videos, the city proposes to use the fullest extent of what the state will allow to limit the impact of incoming casitas and multi-family housing. One video also says that if the city does not comply by January, casitas will be allowed on all residential lots or parcels without limits.
According to a press release:
"Residents are invited to learn about these new laws and provide input on proposed changes to city ordinances at one of two meetings:
- 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at Mountain View Community Center, 8625 E. Mountain View Road;
- 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 20, at the Community Design Studio, 7506 E. Indian School Road.
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