FAQ

 

**UNDER CONSTRUCTION** - As we work to update the FAQ's to reflect our newly adopted Unified Development Code (UDC), please verify information with a Planner by calling 623-930-2800 and asking to speak to the "Planner of the Day." Sections already updated will be indicated.

ANIMALS

How many horses may I have on my property?

The number of horses allowed on a property is dictated by the properties zoning. Please see the sections below:

A-1 (Agriculture): This zoning district does not have any restrictions on the amount of horses that can be kept on a lots within this zoning district.

RR-45, RR-90 (Rural Residential 45, 90): The raising and grazing of livestock is permitted for a maximum of one (1) livestock animal per five-thousand (5,000) square feet of open space. All livestock must be contained in a stock type fence and/or coral. No setback shall be required between such fence or corral when the adjacent property is zoned agriculture, rural residential, or non-residential. However, such fence or corral shall not be closer than one-hundred (100) feet from any residence or living space, including a pool or patio, on an adjacent suburban residential, urban residential or multiple residential zoned lot.

SR-30, SR-17, SR-12: (Suburban Residential 30, 17, & 12) Raising and grazing of livestock, excluding swine, is permitted for a maximum of one (1) animal per ten-thousand (10,000) square feet of open space. All livestock must be contained in a stock type fence and/or coral. Such fence of corral shall not be permitted closer than one-hundred (100) feet of any residence or living space on an adjacent lot including pool and/or patio. For corner lots, no such fence or corral shall be located closer to the side right-of-way line than the principal building.

R1-10, R1-8, R1-7, R1-6, R1-4 (Urban Residential 10, 8, 7, 6, & 4): These zoning districts do not allow for horses or any other livestock including swine and chickens.

PAD (Planned Area Development): Please contact the Planning Division at 623-930-2800 to obtain specifics on if horses are allowed within this zoning district.

PRD (Planned Residential Development): Please contact the Planning Division at 623-930-2800 to obtain specifics on if horses are allowed within this zoning district.

How many chickens & roosters may I have on my property?

The number of chickens and/or roosters allowed on a property is dictated by the properties zoning. Please see the sections below:

A-1 (Agriculture): This zoning district does not have any restrictions on the amount of chickens and/or roosters that can be kept on a lots within this zoning district.

RR-45, RR-90 (Rural Residential 45, 90): The raising and grazing of livestock is permitted for a maximum of one (1) livestock animal per five-thousand (5,000) square feet of open space. the raising of chickens are permitted provided they are contained in a fence. Male fowl shall not be permitted within five-hundred (500) feet of any residence or living space, including pool or patio, on an adjacent suburban residential, urban residential or multiple residential zoned lot.

SR-30, SR-17, SR-12 (Suburban Residential 30, 17, & 12): Raising and grazing of livestock, excluding swine, is permitted for a maximum of one (1) animal per ten-thousand (10,000) square feet of open space. The raising of poultry with the exception of male fowl, is permitted provided they are contained within a fence or corral. All livestock must be contained in a stock type fence and/or coral. Such fence of corral shall not be permitted closer than one-hundred (100) feet of any residence or living space on an adjacent lot including pool and/or patio. For corner lots, no such fence or corral shall be located closer to the side right-of-way line than the principal building.

R1-10, R1-8, R1-7, R1-6, R1-4 (Urban Residential 10, 8, 7, 6, & 4): These zoning districts do not allow for chickens, roosters or any other livestock including swine and horses.

PAD (Planned Area Development): Please contact the Planning Division at 623-930-2800 to obtain specifics on if chicken and/or roosters are allowed within this zoning district.

PRD (Planned Residential Development): Please contact the Planning Division at 623-930-2800 to obtain specifics on if chickens and/or roosters are allowed within this zoning district.

How many dogs may I have on my property?

The City of Glendale does not have a limit on the number of dogs that can live on a property. However, please be aware that this does not constitute as the allowance for a dog kennel. A dog kennel is classified as a business that will require a business license and review from the Planning Division to determine if the business is located in the correct zone district.

Additionally, please consult the City of Glendale's Code Compliance Division at 623-930-2800 to get specifics on how the City regulates noise and smell.

Lastly, contact the County of Maricopa to obtain details on animal care and control.

 

MOBILE HOMES / RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

Can I locate a mobile home or fabricated home on my property and what types of fees will I need to pay?

A property owner may utilize a mobile home or fabricated home as a single-family dwelling on his property in all zone districts that permit one single-family dwelling units subject to conditions as prescribed in the particular zone.

In addition to meeting development requirements for your particular zoning district, you will need to work with the Environmental Resources Department if you are going to be using a septic tank. You may also be required to put the home on a permanent foundation.

For specifics on what building permit applications will be required and the fees please contact the Development Services Department at 623-930-2800.

While building a new home, can I put a temporary mobile home on my property to live in while my house is under construction?

No.

If you have further questions and/or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the Planning Division at 623-930-2800.

Where can a mobile home park be located in the City of Glendale?

Mobiles homes can be located in residential zone districts that have an MH (Mobile Home) Overlay.

Please note that if you are to park your mobile home or recreational vehicle on your property it must be located in the rear yard behind a fence or in the side yard area. However, if you decide to park this vehicle on the side yard, please be aware that it must be parked on concrete, pavers or asphalt. Lastly, this vehicle cannot be used as livable.

For information regarding driveway requirement please see Sections 5.211,5.312, and 7.402 of the Zoning Ordinance.

 

In what zone district may a recreational vehicle park be located?

Recreational vehicle parks, and recreational trailer parks are permitted in every residential zone district, excluding Planned Area Development (PAD), if the zone has a Mobile Home Overlay District (MH).

For more specifics on the MH Overlay District, please see Section 6.300 of the Zoning Ordinance.

If the property is zoned PAD, please contact the Planning Division at 623-930-2800 to obtain specifics on if a recreational vehicle park or trailer park is allowed within the PAD.

 

Can I store my RV on my property?

The City of Glendale Zoning Ordinance does not have restrictions on parking your personal recreational vehicle on your property. However, please note that if you are to park your mobile home or recreational vehicle on your property it must be located in the rear yard behind a fence or in the side yard area. In the event that you decide to park this vehicle on the side yard, please be aware that it must be parked on concrete, pavers or asphalt. Lastly, this vehicle cannot be used as livable.

For information regarding driveway requirement please see Sections 5.2115.312, and 7.402 of the Zoning Ordinance.


If you live in a subdivision that has an HOA, please note that you may have private restrictions outlined within the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) written and adopted for your residential development.

 

 

ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (UPDATED)

What does the City of Glendale define as an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is defined in section 35.8.004 as an ancillary or secondary living unit to a single-family detached dwelling unit that has a kitchenette or kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, and is independently accessed from and located on the same lot as a single-family detached dwelling unit, either within the same building as the single-family dwelling unit or in a detached building. For purposes of determining maximum density, an accessory dwelling unit shall not count as a dwelling unit. A kitchenette is defined in section 35.8.004 as an area used or designed for the preparation of food and containing a sink, refrigerator, and an electrical outlet, which may be used for a microwave oven but no 220v outlet for a range or oven may be provided.

Can I have an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on my lot?

An accessory dwelling unit is permitted use where the zoning allows for a single-family dwelling and the lot or parcel contains a primary dwelling.  

An accessory dwelling unit is not permitted on the same lot or parcel as a duplex or other multiple family development regardless of zoning district. 

No accessory dwelling unit shall be constructed prior to the construction of the single-family dwelling unit to which it is accessory. The accessory dwelling unit shall be secondary in size and function to the primary dwelling on the same lot or parcel.

A mobile home, recreational vehicle, or other movable habitable space shall not be used as an accessory dwelling unit.

Any accessory dwelling unit that is constructed off-site is considered semi-permanent and must be placed on an approved foundation system.

 

How many ADUs can I have on my lot?

No more than one attached accessory dwelling unit and one detached accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted per single-family dwelling lot or parcel.

No more than one attached accessory dwelling unit and two detached accessory dwelling units shall be permitted if the single-family dwelling lot is one acre or more, and only if at least one of the accessory dwelling units is recorded as a restricted-affordable dwelling unit.  For more information, see Regulations for restricted-affordable accessory dwelling unit: in Section 35.3.204 - Accessory Use Conditions of the City of Glendale Code of Ordinances.

What are the general requirements for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

Accessory dwelling units shall adhere to allowable building frontage, maximum lot coverage, and maximum height as established by the zoning district for the lot or parcel.

Accessory dwelling units shall comply with all applicable residential building codes, fire codes and public health and safety regulations.

Accessory dwelling units may be constructed to equal the square footage of the existing single family dwelling unit; but in no case shall the unit exceed one thousand (1,000) square feet.

No additional parking space or in lieu parking fee shall be required to accommodate the accessory dwelling unit. An accessory dwelling unit shall have no separate driveway or parking area from that of the principal dwelling as described in section 35.4.006, residential off-street parking. 

An accessory dwelling unit shall have no separate address from the principal dwelling.

Accessory dwelling units shall be provided with adequate electricity, water supply and sewage disposal.  

All accessory dwelling units shall have separate utility meters, to include a separate city water meter from the primary single-family dwelling unit. 

Additional requirements can be found in Section 35.3.204.A - Accessory dwelling unit (ADU) of the City of Glendale Code of Ordinances.

What are the setbacks for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

The accessory dwelling unit is subject to the same setback requirements that apply to a single-family dwelling on the same lot or parcel except that:

  1. The rear setback for the accessory dwelling unit shall be no less than five (5) feet from the property line.
  2. The side setbacks for the accessory dwelling unit shall be no less than five (5) feet from the property line.
  3. The front setback for the accessory dwelling unit shall be no less than the front yard setback established by the zoning district for the lot or parcel.

The accessory dwelling unit shall not encroach upon an existing or planned public utility easement unless the property owner obtains a written consent from each easement holder and each affected utility.

 

Are cooking appliances allowed within the ADU?

Accessory dwelling units shall have at a minimum, a kitchenette as described in section 35.8.004, specific definitions.

 

Does Planning Division require administrative approval for an ADU prior to applying for building permits?

Yes, Zoning Clearance approval is required for an ADU before building permits are submitted.

 

What is the process for applying for a Zoning Clearance for an ADU?

The first step is to complete a Planning Service Request at the following link to be assigned a Planner: https://form.jotform.com/20333023043

 

 

ACCESSORY STRUCTURES (UPDATED)

What does the City of Glendale define as an Accessory Building and Structure?

Per the City’s Unified Development Code, an Accessory Building or Structure is defined as:

Accessory Building
A detached building whose use is customarily incidental to that of a principal use of the main building or premises.

Accessory Structure
A subordinate structure to that of a main building, which may be served with utilities, but does not enable human habitation.

Furthermore, a structure is defined as:

Structure
Anything constructed or erected, which requires location on the ground or attached to something having location on the ground.

 

Does the Planning Division require administrative approval for Accessory Building and Structures prior to applying for building permits?

Section 35.6.210.B.2 state as follows:

Zoning clearance is required for buildings or structures erected, constructed, altered, repaired or moved, which require a building permit, the use of vacant land, changes in the use of land or building, or for substantial expansions in the use of land or building.

The Planning Division requires a Residential Zoning Clearnce approval prior to submittal of a building permit.

What is the process for applying for a Residential Clearance?

Prior to Zoning Clearances submittal, you will be required to apply for a Planning Service Request. This Service Request allows our Planning administrative staff to provide you with a point of contact for the process. Your assigned Planner will provide you with the required Zoning Clearance application and details on the submittal process. Please access the Planning Service Request form in the link below:

https://form.jotform.com/20333023043

Does my Accessory Building or Structure require a building permit?

All accessory structures that exceed 120 square feet require a building permit. An accessory structure that is below 120 square feet but exceeds a building height of 6 feet, is not required to submit a building permit but does need to comply with accessory structure building setbacks.

What are the Accessory Building and Structures general requirements?

1. No accessory building or structure shall occur or be permitted on any lot or parcel until the principal building or use has been established or erected; unless both principal and accessory buildings and uses are conditional uses being established simultaneously.

2. Unless otherwise expressly stated, accessory buildings and structures are subject to the same lot, building, and development regulations that apply to principal uses and buildings.

3. Accessory buildings and structures must be operated and maintained under the same ownership and located on the same lot as the principal use to which they are accessory, unless otherwise expressly stated.

4. Accessory buildings and structures, except for accessory dwelling units, shall not be used for living or sleeping quarters.

5. If the principal building or use is destroyed, removed or ceases to exist, the utilization of the accessory building, structure, or use shall no longer be allowed.

 

What are the location and building setback requirements for Accessory Building and Structures?

1. All detached buildings and structures must be located behind the nearest front plane of the principal building.

2. Accessory buildings and structures shall not be erected in any right-of-way or easement.

3. No accessory building (e.g. freestanding garage, pool house, etc.) shall be located within six (6) feet if fire rated and ten (10) feet if not fire rated of the site’s principal building. If attached by any part of a common wall or covered roof to the principal building, said building shall be deemed a part of the principal building and shall conform to the development standards of the principal building.

4. Accessory buildings or structures up to seven (7) feet in height, shall maintain a minimum setback of three (3) feet to the side and rear property lines.

AccessoryBldg 4.png

 

5. For each foot over seven (7) feet in height, the side and rear setbacks for accessory buildings and structures shall be increased by two (2) feet. For example, a thirteen (13) foot tall accessory building shall require a minimum side or rear setback of fifteen (15) feet, ((13’-7’) x 2’) + 3’=15’).

AccessoryBldg 5 Table.png

AccessoryBldg 5.png

 

Are there size and height limitations for Accessory Building and Structures?

1. The maximum height of accessory buildings and structures in the R1, RR and SR zoning districts is sixteen (16) feet. Accessory buildings and structures in the A-1 zoning district shall have a maximum building height of twenty (20) feet. In all other districts, accessory buildings and structures shall not exceed the height of the principal building.

2. For those properties within the Glendale Centerline Overlay, an accessory structures maximum height is fifteen (15) feet.

3. The maximum gross floor area of any accessory building or structure shall not exceed 50% of the building footprint of the principal building.

Exception. This provision shall not apply to the following zoning districts: A-1, RR-45, C-3, B-P, M-1, and M-2.

4. Accessory buildings and structures, including tool/storage sheds, shall be included in lot coverage calculations for all zoning districts.

 

What are the exceptions for Accessory Building and Structures?

1. Movable and/or manufactured structures such as children’s play equipment, trash enclosures, tool / storage sheds, and pet shelters smaller than 120 square feet in area and less than six (6) feet in height may be placed within a required rear or side yard setback, but not in a required landscape setback as specified in Section 35.4.100 of the Unified Development Code, and behind a property screen wall or behind the nearest front plane of the principal building where such a wall does not exist. In no event shall the roof of said structures be designed to allow water to drain onto adjacent property.

2. Rear yard setbacks for accessory buildings and structures in residential zoning districts shall be zero when an alley is present at the rear yard adjacent to another residential property. This shall be applicable to properties located within conventional subdivisions as well as to those within planned projects (i.e. PRD or PAD).

3. For any non-single-family residential use or non-residential use in any zoning district, accessory buildings and structures may be located in the side or rear yard subject to accessory structure development standards but shall adhere to any required landscape setbacks as specified in Section 35.4.100 of the Unified Development Code.

4. In the A-1 zoning district or for any non-single-family residential use or non-residential use in any district, accessory buildings and structures may be located in the front yard, but shall adhere to the required front setback.

What are the design requirements for Accessory Building and Structures?

Accessory buildings and structures shall be constructed of materials that have a visual appearance that is similar or complimentary to the principal structure in treatment and color.

Exemption: Common movable and/or manufactured structures such as children’s play equipment, trash enclosures, tool / storage sheds, and pet shelters are exempt from this requirement.

 

 

ZONING / SETBACKS / LAND DEVELOPMENT (UPDATED)

What is zoning?

The purpose of zoning is to separate different land uses. The development standards found within the City of Glendale Unified Development Code ensure that private development takes place within a given area in which:

1. All uses are compatible,
2. Common development standards are used; and
3. Each development does not unreasonably place a burden upon the City, the community, the neighborhood, and/or surrounding/abutting neighbors.

With the adoption of the Unified Development Code, some properties may have legacy zoning, which is a zoning designation that is not within the current code but existed in the previous zoning ordinance. Properties that have legacy zoning now fall under a new zoning designation and are shown in Table 2.001-1 below:

Zoning Districts Table.png

What is my property zoned and how do I find out?

To determine the zoning of a property, please provide the property address or nine (9) digit assessor's parcel number (APN). With the address or APN, you can utilize the City's GIS Interactive Map here to verify the zoning of a property. Make sure that only the Zoning layer is checked on left column on the screen to only show zoning information.

To learn more about the zoning classification and the use standards for that specific zone, please click on the zoning district section below:

A-1 (Agricultural) Use Standards – see Table 2.100-1

RR-45, SR-30, SR-17, & SR-12 (Rural/Suburban Residence) Use Standards – see Table 2.200-1

R1-10, R1-8, R1-7, R1-6, & R1-4 (Single Family Residence) Use Standards – see Table 2.300-1

R-2, R-3, R-4, & R-5 (Multi-Family Residence) Use Standards – see Table 2.400-1

C-1, C-2, C-3, & PR (Commercial Development) Use Standards – see Table 2.500-1

R-O, C-O, & G-O (Professional Office) Use Standards – see Table 2.600-1

B-P, M-1, M-2 (Business and Industrial) Use Standards - see Table 2.700-1

 

What are my property setbacks?

Setbacks vary depending on your zoning district. After you have utilized the City's GIS Interactive Map to verify the zoning of the property, you can refer to the following tables to find the setback requirements for your zoning district.
Setbacks Table 1.png

NOTES:

[1]           Parcels zoned A-1 and established after December 16, 1960 and prior to September 13, 1983 that do not meet the minimum lot area shall adhere to the following setbacks:

  1. Front yard: A depth not less than established by the main building on the nearest lot within one-hundred feet. On a lot that is not within one hundred (100) feet of a lot with an established front yard, the front yard shall not be less than twenty (20) feet.

  2. Side yard for interior lots: two (2) side yards, one side not less than seven (7) feet except on a lot with no access to alley, then it shall be five (5) feet on one side and ten (10) feet on the other.

Setbacks Table 2.png

Setbacks Table 3.png

NOTES:

1. Front setback shall be fifteen (15) feet to living area or for side entry garages and/or covered front porch. Front setback shall be twenty (20) feet for front entry garages and carports.

[2]        2. Minimum separation between buildings on adjacent lots shall be fifteen (15) feet.

[3]         3. For Single-Family Detached uses, minimum separation between buildings on adjacent lots shall be ten (10) feet.

[4]         4. For Single-Family Attached uses, side yard setbacks with common walls may be zero (0) feet.

[5]         5. Minimum rear setback for parcels approved prior to June 22, 1993 shall be fifteen (15) feet.

For all street side setbacks, the minimum street side yard setback shall be ten (10) feet. When an open space tract with a minimum width of five (5) feet is located between the lot and the street, the intent of the additional setback separation is satisfied. However, in no instance shall the building be located any closer to the street side property line than the prescribed internal side yard setback for that property. This will be applied to properties located within conventional subdivisions as well as to those within planned projects (i.e. PRD or PAD).

For private alleys established after the effective date (enter date) of this Code, the rear setback for alley-loaded garages may be zero (0) for the garage face only and garage height shall be limited to twelve (12) feet.

Fireplaces may encroach into the front, side, and rear setbacks a maximum of two-and-one-half (2½) feet. Bay windows may encroach into front, side, and rear setbacks a maximum of two-and-one-half (2½) feet for a distance not to exceed ten (10) feet on any building elevation. The bay window must maintain a minimum of five (5) feet separation between it and any property line.

Setbacks Table 4.png

NOTES:

A perimeter setback shall be provided for the common lot only. Individual lots within a common lot are not subject to setbacks, except interior building separation shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet unless otherwise stated herein or as required by the building code.

Perimeter setbacks shall increase by one (1) foot per one (1) foot increase in height over twenty (20) feet, up to a maximum perimeter setback of twenty-five (25) feet.

When adjacent to a Single Residence Zoning District, regardless of height, base side and rear perimeter setbacks shall be increased by ten (10) feet.

For permitted Single-Family Detached uses as specified in Table 2.400-1, such uses shall adhere to the development standards of the zoning district that is most comparable to the net lot area of the subject parcel, as determined by the Development Services Director or designee.

Setbacks Table 5.png

NOTES:

1. Building setbacks along arterial streets shall be as stated or a minimum of one (1) foot for each one (1) foot of building height, whichever is greatest, unless alternatively specified below. This requirement shall not apply within the PR District.

2. Building setbacks shall be sixty (60) feet when adjacent to residential uses, fifteen (15) feet when adjacent to non-residential uses.

3. For lot areas twenty (20) acres or more in size, side and rear setbacks shall be eighty (80) feet when adjacent to residential uses and twenty-five (25) feet when adjacent to non-residential uses.

Unless otherwise permitted in Section 35.2.800– Special Development Standards, additional height may be permitted subject to the following. Side and rear building setbacks shall increase two (2) feet for every one (1) foot of building height over thirty (30) feet when adjacent to a residential use or one (1) foot of additional setback for every one (1) foot of building height when adjacent to a non-residential use. Maximum height shall not exceed fifty-six (56) feet. Any building height above fifty-six (56) feet shall require approval of a conditional use permit. 

Setbacks Table 6.png

NOTES: [1] Setbacks shall increase one (1) foot for every one (1) foot of building height when adjacent to a residential use, but at no time shall be less than minimum setback.

Setbacks Table 7.png

NOTES:

Setbacks shall increase one (1) foot for every one (1) foot of building height when adjacent to a residential use, but at no time shall be less than minimum setback.

Building setbacks shall be fifty (50) feet when adjacent to an arterial street or above, forty (40) feet when adjacent to a collector street, or twenty-five (25) feet when adjacent to a local street.

Building setbacks shall be fifteen (15) feet when adjacent to non-residential uses, sixty (60) feet when adjacent to residential uses.

Alternatively, you may contact the Planning Division at 623-930-2800.

 

 

 

My home is in a commercial zone, can I expand my dwelling?

If your home is in a commercial or industrial zone that does not allow for residential dwellings as a permitted/allowed use, your home may be considered a nonconforming use.

No expansion shall be made of any non-conforming building, structure, or use unless such expansion conforms to the regulation specified for the district in which it is located. In cases where the nonconforming use occupies a building, structure, or any portion of a site, expanding the use into an additional building or land area shall constitute an extension and shall not be allowed.

If you have any further questions, comments, or concerns regarding nonconformities please see Section 35.7.100 Legal Non-Conformity of the Unified Development Code or contact the Planning Division at 623-930-2800.

 

Can I have a business at my residence?

If your property is in a residential zone and you want to conduct a business, it may operate as a Home Occupation.  A Home Occupation is an accessory use to the main residence and there are two classifications: Class I and Class II.  

1) Class I Home Occupations must meet the following criteria: 
      a) Is conducted entirely from within the principal residence with  no activity or storage in the garage or other accessory  buildings, or in other outdoor areas, except as allowed below;
      b) Is conducted only by a resident or residents of the dwelling  unit (no employees other than the family), no outside  employees visit the site;
     c) Does not have any customer traffic or more than one (1)  commercial delivery vehicle a day coming to the residence  related to the home occupation;
    d) Produces no offensive noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odors,  heat, or glare beyond the boundaries of the property;
    e) Is clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling  unit for residential purposes with storage for the use limited to  a maximum of five (5) percent of the total floor area and a  maximum of ten (10) percent of the collective floor area of the  garage or accessory building;
    f) Has no signs or other exterior evidence of its existence;
   g) A valid City sales tax and business license is maintained for  business purposes;
   h) Activity shall be limited to the hours between 7:00 a.m. and  10:00 p.m.; and
    i) Any parking incidental to the home occupation shall be  provided on site.

2) Class II Home Occupations are subject to conditional use permit in  all residential districts. It is required when any of the following  standards cannot be met by the proposed home occupation:
    a) Is conducted entirely from within the principal residence  with no activity or storage in the garage or other accessory  buildings, or in other outdoor areas;
    b) Is conducted only by a resident or residents of the  dwelling unit (no employees other than the family), no  outside employees visit the site;
    c) Does not have any customer traffic or more than one (1)  commercial delivery vehicle a day coming to the residence  related to the home occupation.

If you want to move forward with starting a Home Occupation, please start by submitting a Planning Service Request at the following link to be assigned a Planner to discuss: Planning Service Request (jotform.com)

 

How many dwelling units may I have on my property?

A-1 (Agricultural): One (1) detached single residence dwelling per lot.

RR-45 (Rural Residence): One (1) detached single residence dwelling per lot.

SR-30, SR-17, SR-12 (Suburban Residence ): One (1) detached single residence dwelling per lot.

R1-10, R1-8, R1-7, R1-6, R1-4 (Single Residence): One (1) detached single residence dwelling per lot.

R-5,  R-4, R-3, & R-2 (Multiple Residence): The density for a multiple residence zoned property is dependent on the size of the lot. Please refer to the Minimum Net Lot Area per Dwelling Unit (square feet) requirement for each multiple residence zoning district:

R-2 zone:       3,630 square feet

R-3 zone:       2,720 square feet

R-4 zone:       2,178 square feet

R-5 zone:       1,452 square feet 

 

 

GENERAL PLAN

What is the City of Glendale General Plan?

The City of Glendale General Plan is a comprehensive long-range plan intended to guide the growth and development within the City. It includes analysis, recommendations, and policies for the community's population, economy, housing, transportation, community facilities, and land use. Various Community Plans have been adopted by City Council to direct land use within specific regions of the City. Minimum lot sizes and permitted land uses must conform to the General Plan, adopted Community Plans, as well as the existing zoning on the subject parcel.

How can I find my general plan land use designation?

To determine what the General Plan Land Use Designation is for a piece of property please utilize the City's GIS Interactive Map here.

 

How do I obtain a General Amendment (GPA)?

There are two General Plan Amendments:

1. Minor General Plan Amendment (GPA)

2. Major General Plan Amendment (GPA)

First, contact the Planning Division to obtain their understanding of the vision for that parcel within the City or to get guidance on the process.

Please note that a Minor GPA can be processed and scheduled at any time during the year. However, in accordance with State Statutes, the City of Glendale will consider Major GPAs at a single public hearing during the calendar year the proposal is made. The Planning Director/Administrator is responsible for determining major and minor map amendments status if the parcel is less than the minimum area listed in Table 1 of the General Plan see Table 1 GPA Major and Minor.

Applications for a General Plan Major Map Amendment will be in accordance with City policies and procedures. The Planning Division is the lead agency to process the amendment request; therefore, will provide the necessary forms and information.

 

What is the difference between a Minor General Plan Amendment (GPA) and a Major GPA?

Both Major and Minor General Plan Amendments (GPA) are applications that amend general plan land use designations within the City. However, a Minor GPA can be processed and approved during any time during the calendar year, while a Major GPA can only be considered at a single public hearing during the calendar year the proposal is made.

 

 

GROUP HOMES

Who can I contact if I suspect a group home is operating illegally in my neighborhood?

  1. Use the AZDHS map to check if a group home has been licensed to the address.
  2. Submit a Service Request through Code Compliance / GlendaleOne or call (623) 930-3610.

I received a Notice of Public Hearing for a Group Care Facility (GCF) in my neighborhood. How can I be assured my concerns are addressed while remaining anonymous?

  1. The notice should include the City Planner’s contact information. You may call or email the Planner directly or call the Planning Department at (623) 930-2800. Please have the notice at hand in order for staff to quickly locate the project.

What are the different types of group homes and what is required for City approval?

a. Group Home (1-5): A residential home for operator and/or operator’s family and 1-5 unrelated people receiving special care on a 24-hour basis for physical, mental, or developmental disabilities. REQUIRES STATE LICENSE AND CITY BUSINESS LICENSE.

   i. Example: One adult health coordinator assisting/monitoring 4 developmentally disabled adults.

b. Group Care Facility (GCF): A residential home for 2 or more unrelated individuals under supervised care and/or treatment of correctional/sex offenses; transitional facilities; or shelter care facilities for people at risk. REQUIRES STATE LICENSE, CITY BUSINESS LICENSE AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT.

  i. Example: One adult in a supervisory/monitoring role and 2 at risk former offenders in a halfway house arrangement

c. Residential Care Home (RCH): A residential home accommodating 6-10 unrelated adults with disabilities and/or minors with or without disabilities. REQUIRES STATE LICENSE AND CITY BUSINESS LICENSE.

  i. Example: A health coordinator assisting/monitoring 2 disabled adults and 6 elderly patients

d. Residential Care Center (RCC): A home accommodating 11 or more unrelated adults with disabilities or minor children with or without disabilities. REQUIRES STATE LICENSE AND CITY BUSINESS LICENSE.

  i. Example: A health coordinator assisting/monitoring a 12 bed elder care facility

Are group homes limited to certain zoning districts?

a.  Group Home (1-5): Allowed in SR, R-1, R-2, and R-O

b.  Group Care Facility (GCF): Allowed in R-3, R-4, R-5 and C-3 with a Conditional Use Permit

c.  Residential Care Home (RCH): Allowed in SR, R-1, R-2, and R-O

d.  Residential Care Center (RCC): Allowed in R-3, R-4, R-5, C-1 and C-2

 

Is there a distance requirement between group homes?

a. Yes. Per the City of Glendale Unified Development Code, group homes must be separated from one another by a minimum distance of 1,200 feet.

What is a Group Home Reservation?

a. Per the City of Glendale Unified Development Code, group homes must be separated from one another by a minimum distance of 1,200 feet. A Group Home Reservation conditionally reserves the address for 60 days allowing the applicant time to obtain applicable City and State licenses. While you have an active Reservation, no other applications within the minimum distance will be accepted.

 

Do I need a Group Home Reservation for a Residential Care Home or Center?

a. Yes. Due to the distance requirement between all group home types, both the Research and Reservation are required for all types of group homes.

What can I expect while applying for a group home?

a. Process:

  i. Submit a Service Request for Group Home Property Research & Reservation

 ii. Planner will contact you to discuss and provide direction for submitting the application

 iii. Upload your documents per the Planner’s instructions

 iv. Wait for Planner authorization to submit payment #1 for Group Home Research

v. Planner will let you know if a group home is allowed on your parcel

vi. Submit payment #2 for Group Home Reservation

vii. Planner will provide a list of items you must submit for City documentation in order to receive final Approval

Are there additional planning applications that will need to be submitted?

a. Maybe. If a building modification (expansion, new construction, fire sprinklers, etc) is proposed, a Design Review may be required. Please discuss this with your assigned Planner following the Service Request.

My State of AZ License is still in process, but my Group Home Reservation is about to expire. Can I apply for an extension?

a. Probably. If you encounter difficulties obtaining any of the required documents for Approval, please contact your Planner fifteen (15) days prior to the expiration date. We are able to grant up to two (2) extensions with demonstration of substantial progress (i.e. documentation that you have submitted for State License and/or Certificate of Occupancy). If you are unable to provide proof of substantial progress, the Planner may elect to Close-out the Reservation upon expiration.

Do I need a State of Arizona License to operate my group home facility?

a. Yes. All types of group homes/facilities providing assisted living, behavioral health, and long-term care require a State of Arizona License to operate. Find State of Arizona licensing information at AZ Licensing Residential Facilities.

 

 

Do I need a City of Glendale Business License to operate my group care facility?

a. Yes. All types of group homes/facilities including Group Care Homes (GC 1-5), Group Care Facilities (GCF), Residential Care Homes (RCH) and Residential Care Centers (RCC) require a City Business License. Your City License will not be granted until State License and Certificate of Occupancy are issued. Apply for your business license at COG Business License Applications.

 

Can I use my single family home as a Group Home (1-5)?

a. Group homes must meet certain criteria including but not limited to zoning, setbacks, public notification, and distance between other group homes. See FAQ #4/5/8 above.

I would like to become a foster parent. Do I need to convert my residence into a group home?

a. Maybe. Guardianship is included in the definition of family in Article 35.8.004, but it depends on the number of children involved and if it is a licensed foster home. Please submit a Service Request to speak with a Planner for detailed information.

 

I am purchasing a home that is registered as a group home and would like to continue operating as a Group Home (1-5). Will the existing registrations and licenses transfer?

a. Not really, but... Submit a COG Planning Service Request for a Change of Owner/Operator. You will not be required to pay and wait for the Research portion to be completed. You will be required to submit all application materials and payment to place you in Reservation status allowing you time to obtain your own State and City Business licenses and No Work Certificate of Occupancy.

 

I am looking to purchase a property to use as a group home, but the application requires all of the existing owner's permissions. How can I obtain a Reservation without buying a house that may be rejected?

a. To help you find a potential property, use the AZDHS map to check if a group home has been licensed nearby. Eliminate all properties that have group homes within 1,200 feet.

b. Enter a Service Request for Group Home Research

c. Speak with your Planner to see if they will allow a deferred submittal of title/deed in order to process the Research and (hopefully) place you in Reservation status through close of escrow. Your Realtor can help with language that the sale is dependent upon obtaining a Group Home Reservation from the City.

 

PROJECT SUBMITTAL / PROJECT REVIEW / PROJECT PLANNER INFORMATION

Why does it take so long to process a Design Review, Conditional Use Permit (CUP), Preliminary Plat, Final Plat, Rezone, or General Plan Amendment (GPA) Application?

Major development applications such as conditional use permits, subdivision plats, rezone, and general plan amendment applications are transmitted to numerous City Departments/Divisions for review and comment.

During the review and comment process, many times numerous issues are raised that must be addressed in the project design. This process of re-design and review may be required several times before a project is deemed approvable and ready to proceed to a public hearing.

The Planning Division, as the lead on most land development proposals, makes every effort to expedite the review process. The time required for the applicant and the applicant's engineer to review comments and proceed with a re-design and re-submittal of plans varies and is out of the Planning Division's control.

How do I find out my project number?

Please contact your assigned project planner or contact the Planning Division.

 

What are the review timelines for planning applications?

Review times vary from application to application to obtain specifics on the review time for a particular application please download the Project Review Timelines document or contact your assigned planner by visiting the Planning Division's Contact Us page.

 

I left a voice or email message with my project planner a few days ago, and he/she has not returned my call. What shall I do?

Please allow a minimum of twenty-four (24) working hours for a return call or e-mail from department personnel. After twenty-four (24) hours, you may phone or e-mail the planner again. Please visit the Planning Division's Contact Us page to get a listing of all Planning Division staff.

 

TEMPORARY USE PERMITS (UPDATED)

What is a temporary use?

A use or structure permitted under the Unified Development Code (UDC) to exist for a limited period.

Please note that if the use is for a new structure, you will need a separate building permit as well as a temporary use permit. 

 

What temporary uses require an application?

  • Carnivals, Circus, Concerts, Rodeos
  • Donation/ Recycling Drop-Box

What type of temporary use needs just a building permit?

  • Temporary Office and Construction Trailers

When should I apply?

  • As soon as you have complete information.
  • No less than 30 days prior to start date. 

What information do I need to provide for a temporary use permit?

  • Master Application
  •  Temporary Use Checklist
  • Project Narrative:
  • Use and/or structure shall comply with all applicable codes and Ordinances and:
  • Does not interfere with pedestrian access, fire lanes, entrances, or traffic visibility at driveways and street intersections.
  • Parking on-site is adequate to support permanent (if applicable) and temporary use.
  • Use is not conducted between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (excluding Donation/ Recycling Drop Boxes).
  • How parking, dust control, and lighting will be handled
  • Hours of operation
  • Description of ingress and egress
  • Notarized assurance of compliance with building, fire, electrical and other codes.
  • Notation stating, that within seventy-two (72) hours of the end of the event, the site will be restored to the condition prior to the start of the event.
  • Site Plan
    • Dimensioned site plan showing the following:
      • Location of use, and if tents, buildings, or other structures are provided, show the location with setbacks to the property-line
      • Parking spaces dedicated to the use (provide a breakdown in a table of both the permanent (if applicable) and the use
      • Depiction of ingress and egress (entrances in and out of site)
      • Location of trash receptacles (if applicable).
      • Location of porta-potties used for the event (if applicable).
      • Location of any temporary electrical or generators.
      • Location of any proposed temporary signage (see section 35.4.300). Please note that all temporary signage requires a separate temporary sign/banner permit.
      • Elevations (if requested)
        • Elevations that show all four sides of building (s) and the height to the top of the structure(s). 
  • Circulation Plan (if requested)
    • Site plan showing the general circulation of the site to include pedestrian walkways. 

How do I submit for temporary use?

  • START POINT: Planning Service Request:Planning Service Request (jotform.com)
  • Upon receipt, a Planner will reach out and give you your required applications and a link to the Planning Submittal Portal.
  • Once we receive your application, the application will be reviewed for completeness, and if complete, and you will be given instruction on payment procedures.

What is the fee for the permit?

$84.99 for the review.

What do I receive upon approval?

Upon payment, If the use or structure is approvable, the City will provide an approval in writing. You will be notified at this time if any other permits are needed.

Who do I contact for more information?

  • City of Glendale Development Services, Planning Division, 623-930-2800.

 

SPECIAL EVENTS AND SEASONAL SALES (UPDATED)

What types of events require a planning special event permit?

  • Seasonal Sales and Special Events that do not need a building permit. (Please contact the Planning Department to determine if you need a building permit: 623-930-2800)
  • Farmers Market (Temporary)

What do I need at submital?

  • Special Event Application
  • Site Plan showing the location of where the event will take place.

When should I submit?

  • A minimum of thirty (30) days prior to your event.

How do I submit for a planning special event?

  • START POINT: Planning Service Request: Planning Service Request (jotform.com)
  • Upon receipt, a Planner will reach out and give you your required applications and a link to the Planning Submittal Portal.
  • Once we receive your application, the application will be reviewed for completeness, and if complete, and you will be given instruction on payment procedures.

What is the fee?

  • $84.99

What do I receive for approval?

  • If your special event is approved, you will receive stamped approval plans with the date of the duration of the event.

How long is the permit issued for?

  • A thirty (30) day duration. Within three days of the end event and associated signs, flags, structures, tents, or tables must be removed.

What type of events just need a business license?

  • Mobile Food Vending
  • Mobile Outdoor Vendors
  • Events held on City property
  • Temporary Office and Construction Trailers

*** Please Note that Specific Conditions May Apply*** (UDC Section 35.3.302)

What uses are exempt?

  • Garage/ Yard Sales (check with Homeowners Association for any restrictions and note that signs cannot be located in right-of-way, on traffic signs or light poles).
  • Events that occur in meeting halls or assembly facilities
  • Promotional events
  • Emergency public and health safety services
  • Temporary non-profit or fundraising events
  • City sponsored events

 

Who do I contact for more information?

  • City of Glendale Development Services, Planning Division, 623-930-2800.