Phoenix, AZ Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)
Key Facts
- Bonus ratio
- 1 unit per 2 affordable units
- Density cap
- 10% above base max
- Approving dept.
- Housing Department
- Applies to
- Districts under Section 608
Summary
Phoenix grants one extra dwelling unit for every two affordable units built, capped at 10% over the district's maximum density.
3. Affordable Housing Incentives. In order to overcome a demonstrated deficiency in the supply of housing for persons of low income, incentives are established to foster the provision of such housing. ... b. Density Bonus. (1) One additional unit shall be allowed for every two affordable housing units; provided, that the overall project density does not exceed ten percent beyond that which would otherwise be allowed.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance G-7524, passed June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under Zoning Ordinance Section 608.H.3, any residential development subject to Section 608 can earn a density bonus for building affordable housing: one additional unit for every two affordable units provided, so long as the project's overall density doesn't exceed 10% beyond what the base district otherwise allows. This bonus stacks with the separate Section 608.H.1 single-family subdivision bonus (earned through site amenities like landscaping, entry features, and recreational amenities) and the 608.H.2 multi-family open-space bonus (1% density bonus per 2% of extra common open space), but the Housing Department signs off on total unit counts.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the 10%-over-base-density cap, or building the claimed affordable units without approval from the Housing Department, forfeits the bonus and puts the project out of compliance with its approved density.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra density can affordable housing earn in Phoenix?
Can Phoenix's affordable housing bonus combine with other density bonuses?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
Compare Phoenix to another location·View the Arizona zoning overlays & bonuses overview
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Density Bonus Law in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle density bonus law.