Tempe staff is seeking input at public meetings and through an online survey in March and April for potential updates on zoning code regulations that allow accessory dwelling units.

An ADU is an independent, smaller, rentable dwelling unit located on the same lot as an existing, stand-alone single-family home, a city release explained. In 2019, Tempe was among the first cities in Arizona to approve an ordinance adopting new regulations for ADUs.

Current zoning and development code permits ADUs on multi-family zoned properties that already have a single-family home, which limits the number of properties that qualify. Updates being considered would expand ADU eligibility to include single-family residential zoned properties.

Feedback will be collected at virtual and in-person meetings — the information will be the same at both.

Participants will hear details about preliminary concepts tailored to Tempe, and staff will address topics of interest conveyed by residents during the first round of feedback, such as parking, restricting use as short-term rentals or the frequency of building permits based on staff research.

Public feedback will be used to help shape a final draft to be presented to city council. 

The first virtual meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 27 at noon, and the in-person will be later that day from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Road.

April meetings to be held:

• Tuesday, April 2, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the North Tempe Multi-Generational Center, 1555 N. Bridalwreath St. 
• Monday, April 8, 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Arizona 811, 1405 W. Auto Dr.

Residents can also provide input through an online survey available from March 27 to May 1 at tempe.gov/ADU. To request a paper copy, phone survey, one-on-one meeting or special meeting accommodations, call 480-350-8234. 

Additional information can also be found at tempe.gov/ADU.

Tempe is among a number of cities in the state looking to ADUs to address needs such as:

• Increasing the city’s affordable housing stock with alternate smaller housing units;
• Creating housing diversity with this alternate housing type;
• Adding incremental density while maintaining the character of a neighborhood;
• Providing opportunities for multi-generational living;
• Allowing for aging in place; and
• Helping generate a new source of income for homeowners.

Following the public input period, next steps include drafting ADU regulations and concepts for consideration by city council. A future work study session will be scheduled with city council for further guidance.