Cochise County Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Summary
The Cochise County Planning and Zoning Commission met on August 14, 2025, to address several key agenda items.
The session started with Commissioner Limbach proposing the approval of a text amendment to the Supervisory Board. This amendment aims to enhance flexibility and boost housing capacity, aligning with Arizona’s recent law regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) passed on May 23, 2025.
During the presentation, staff member McLaughlin highlighted the major changes in the proposed revision. The updated regulations would allow accessory housing on lots where single-family homes are currently permitted. Each lot may hold one attached unit and one separate ADU. For parcels of at least one acre, there could be potential for additional units. The size of these ADUs is capped at 1,000 square feet, adhering to a 5-foot retreat requirement.
The amendment also eliminates rental restrictions, adjusts the approval process for some deviations from site development standards, and assigns responsibility to the Coordination Committee. This adjustment is anticipated to simplify the application process for those wishing to exceed ADU size limits.
Questions arose about the number of ADUs permissible on larger lots, and it was clarified that a 4-acre lot could accommodate one attachment and up to two separate units. The committee voted on the proposal, which passed with a majority, though one member expressed concerns, questioning the constitutionality of state mandates that limit local governance.
After the vote, the Planning Director gave a preview of upcoming agenda items for the next meeting, which includes several rezoning requests and special use permits, suggesting a busy schedule ahead for the committee.
In conclusion, this meeting underscored significant regulatory changes designed to encourage the development of accessory housing in Cochise County, reflecting a wider trend towards diversifying housing options in line with state legislation. The committee’s decisions will be forwarded to the Supervisory Board for final approval.