City invites Tempe residents to provide input on proposed ADU ordinance

Residents are invited to offer feedback on the city’s proposed Accessory Dwelling Units ordinance at the city council first public hearing Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 6 p.m. in the city council chambers. 

A second hearing will be held on Nov. 21, with the ordinance becoming effective Dec. 21 upon passage, a city release explained.

In addition to attending public hearings, residents can fill out a comment card online. Review the draft ordinance, watch a presentation and provide comment at tempe.gov/ADU. 

Tempe is set to update its zoning code regulations for ADUs following the May passage of House Bill 2720, which requires municipalities with populations of 75,000 or more to adopt regulations by Jan. 1, 2025 that permit ADUs on all lots where single-family dwellings are allowed, the release explained.

ADUs, smaller rentable units on the same lot as a single-family home, have been allowed in Tempe since 2019.  

Prior to the passage of HB 2720, Tempe City Council had directed city staff to begin researching a potential update to the city’s ADU regulations. Since the passage of the bill, the city has adapted its proposal to meet state requirements.

City staff began initial research for potential updates to ADU regulations in late 2023. Since then, the city has held six public meetings and two online surveys to gather input, tbe release noted. 

Results were presented at the June 20 city council work study, noting the adoption of HB2720.

Residents can provide feedback on the draft ADU ordinance through Nov. 21. 

In addition to commenting online at tempe.gov/ADU, residents may also request a paper copy, phone survey, one-on-one meeting or special meeting accommodations by calling 480-350-8234. 

Find city council agendas for the upcoming public hearings when available and how to provide comments at tempe.gov/clerk.