“This is another process improvement the City is implementing to assist in building more affordable housing projects,” said Vice Mayor Debra Stark. “This change makes the process more efficient by allowing administrative approval of plats. Instead of awaiting City Council approval, city staff, who are in the office daily, can now record plats quicker. Avoiding delays in the homebuilding process helps keep housing prices affordable.”
After SB1103 went into effect in October 2023, state law permitted the Planning and Development Department to authorize administrative personnel to review and approve various plans without Phoenix City Council approval, including final plats and plat amendments. The department has already implemented the staff review and approval of site plans, development plans, land divisions, lot line adjustments, and lot ties, as provided in SB1103.
The changes approved by the Phoenix City Council today will amend sections of the Phoenix City Code related to the plat approval process. The City encourages stakeholders, developers, and the public to familiarize themselves with the amended sections before the changes go into effect on April 1, 2024.
“Phoenix is committed to increasing the rate and flow of housing to the market. We have been proactive in amending existing City Code to allow for Accessory Dwelling Units, reduced parking requirements along transit-oriented development zones, and worked directly with some of our legislative partners to craft bills and amendments to create a more friendly environment for homebuilders,” said Councilwoman O’Brien. “The solution to our housing crisis isn’t going to be solved by one state bill or one local council decision alone. We need to utilize multipronged solutions like this unanimously passed code change. By cutting red tape and reducing bureaucracy, this is one more step Phoenix is taking to lead the efforts against the housing crisis.”
The Planning and Development Department continues to prioritize its commitment to process improvements and reduced plan review times to enhance efficiency and service quality. The department has already established a self-certification program, an at-risk grading and drainage process and expedited plan review processes. By prioritizing continuous improvement, the department aims to facilitate smoother project approvals and promote overall economic growth and development within the city of Phoenix.
“I am grateful for the Council’s support of these important changes to City Code. Improving our processes is crucial as it helps in optimizing efficiency, reducing delays, and ensuring compliance with state law,” said Planning and Development Department Director, Joshua Bednarek. “By modernizing and simplifying procedures, we can better serve the needs of residents, developers, and businesses, making it easier for them to navigate through the approval process. This, in turn, fosters economic growth, encourages investment, and ultimately contributes to the overall well-being and prosperity of the city.”
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