Specific Plans Overview: Mesa vs Tempe
How do specific plans overview rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Mesa and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa overlays subarea and specific plans on top of base Title 11 zoning to guide growth around downtown, Falcon Field, the Light Rail extension, and master-planned communities. Specific plans modify use, density, and design within their footprints.
View full Mesa rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Maricopa County adopted Vision 2030, the 2030 Comprehensive Plan, as the long-range policy framework for unincorporated land. Title XIII zoning implements the plan through Area Plans, Special Planning Areas, and Conditional Use Permits across the New River, Hassayampa, Aguila, and other regions.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Code basis | Mesa ZO Title 11 | - |
| Light rail plans | Station-area overlays | - |
| Downtown | Form-Based Code | - |
| Adoption | Council after P&Z | - |
| Plan name | - | Vision 2030 |
| Adopted | - | 2015 update |
| Authority | - | ARS 11-804 |
| Area Plans | - | 5 regional plans |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
How do I know if my property is in one?
Mesa's online zoning map shows base zoning and overlays. Development Services planners can confirm which specific plan applies and what standards prevail over the base district.
Can a specific plan be appealed?
Adoption is legislative, so it is not appealable like a permit. Property owners can submit comments at the Planning and Zoning Board hearing and the Council adoption hearing.
Tempe FAQ
How do I find the Area Plan for my parcel?
Use the Maricopa County Planning Online Mapping tool, which overlays Comprehensive Plan land-use, Area Plans, and zoning. Each Area Plan has unique density, design, and environmental policies layered on top of the base Title XIII zoning standards.
How long does a major plan amendment take?
Major Comprehensive Plan amendments are accepted once a year, with mandatory neighborhood meetings, Planning and Zoning Commission hearings, and Board of Supervisors action. The full process commonly takes nine to eighteen months from filing.
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