Chandler's cityscape is set for a makeover after the City Council voted in favor of over 30 code amendments on February 21, bringing changes to land use, zoning, property maintenance, sign code, and garbage disposal regulations. As per the Chandler City Council's latest decision from last week's meeting, these modifications are slated for activation starting March 23, in line with objectives outlined in the Council's Strategic Framework.
The package of amendments sparked initial discussions back in April 2023 and, after seeking the pulse of the community and stakeholders, the council has now brought in new rules that chase goals such as using adaptive reuse for the vitality of commercial centers and neighborhoods. Some key amendments aimed at facilitating a mix of uses and improvement include: the reduction of setbacks for infill or redevelopment, setting up queuing guidelines for online order pick-up points, and approving the construction of shipping container buildings—given they fit the neighborhood's profile and align with safety codes.
In a move that balances development aspirations with residents' interests, the council has set the stage for a six-foot-high perimeter wall mandate for new developments beside residential zones and introduced specific conditions for home-based businesses, which should not disrupt the neighborhood nor replace garage spaces. Notably, the Chandler City Council's website has a comprehensive breakdown of the approved adjustments, with further information available through Chandler's Principal Planner Lauren Schumann.
Other notable amendments include an intriguing provision; that allows the placement of single-family dwellings on multi-family zoned lots no greater than 12,000 square feet—provisions like this one have potential ripple effects on the preservation of historic neighborhoods. The Council also displayed an ecological sensibility, removing the on-site parking surfaces' need to be connected to the garage, which in turn reduces excessive paving and encourages greenery in front yards. For a detailed glance at these updates, residents and interested parties can review the full list at Chandler Code Amendments.
