Tempe, AZ Environmental Rules: Coastal Development (2026)

While Tempe has no ocean coastline, the city manages substantial waterfront development around Tempe Town Lake, a 2-mile reservoir on the Salt River created by inflatable dams. The Tempe Town Lake area is governed by specific planning districts in the Zoning and Development Code, including the Town Lake Special Planning District and Rio Salado overlay provisions. Development adjacent to the lake must comply with FEMA flood plain regulations for the Salt River corridor. The 100-year flood plain extends beyond the lake banks and affects development standards for nearby properties. Building in or near the flood plain requires elevation certificates, flood-proofing measures, and compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. The city's stormwater management requirements apply to all development near the lake. Environmental review may be required for projects affecting the Salt River riparian habitat. Tempe has invested heavily in the Rio Salado restoration area east of the lake. The lakefront has become a major mixed-use development zone with high-rise residential and commercial projects.