04. CPA2600002 BOS REPORT PART 1.PDF
Extracted text (via pymupdf)
268781 characters
May 20, 2026
CPA260002
Page 1 of 2
Report to the Board of Supervisors
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
Board Hearing Date:
May 20, 2026
Case #/Title:
CPA260002 – Framework 2040 Maricopa County Comprehensive
Plan
Supervisorial Districts:
All
Initiator:
Staff
Request:
Approval of the Framework 2040 Maricopa County Comprehensive
Plan (CPA approval is by Resolution)
Site Location:
All unincorporated area of Maricopa County
Site Size:
Approx. 9,224 sq. mi.
Additional
Comments:
The Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan was last updated in
2016. Much has changed in the planning area since then, including
an 8.2% growth rate between 2010 and 2020, growth in the north,
northwest and west valleys, a rapid transition towards industrial
growth in both incorporated and unincorporated areas and housing
availability concerns creating pressure to increase density along
the rural-urban fringes of the County. These changes necessitated
an update to the plan.
To ensure broad outreach to as many citizens, community
organizations, government agencies, interest groups and other
stakeholders as possible, Maricopa County held three outreach
surges including thirteen (13) public workshops of which ten were
in-person (two per supervisor district) and three were virtual. During
the first outreach surge, the project team introduced the
Comprehensive Plan update to attendees and sought feedback to
create a vision for the plan. Afterwards the project team developed
goals and policies for each of the plan elements based upon the
vision of County residents. The second outreach surge sought
feedback on the goals and policies. The plan is currently at the final
stage of the third outreach surge. In this surge, the project team
unveiled the draft plan, completed the 60-day ARS mandated review
period and conducted final engagement activities for adoption of
the plan.
Staff convened a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), developed
a web page, distribution list and a variety of online participation
May 20, 2026
CPA260002
Page 2 of 2
activities. In combination, these methods allowed participants an
opportunity to share ideas, thoughts recommendations, and
feedback during plan preparation. As a result, staff believes that the
final product is truly representative of the needs and wishes of the
overall community.
Public participation identified three guiding themes including
expanding opportunity for Maricopa County residents, being good
stewards of County resources and creating an environment of
prosperity where Maricopa County flourishes. The signature
strategy of the plan – the Framework – is designed to consider the
variety urban county islands, suburban fringe, and rural areas in
unincorporated County and whether an area is appropriate for
urban development in consideration of available urban services. As
a companion to the Urban Solutions for Urban Development
strategy, the framework pairs infrastructure readiness and service
availability to anticipated development and serves as a tool for
evaluation of development proposals.
With strong public engagement and innovative goals, policies and
strategies to address the needs of a changing County, the plan is a
worthy successor to the Vision 2030 Maricopa County
Comprehensive Plan.
Additional Note:
The Planning and Zoning Commission made the following change
to Page 48 of the Comprehensive Plan:
“Maricopa County will refer to evaluate development proposals for
alignment with municipal comprehensive and general plans as
guides when making decisions involving County Islands and will
also consider them elsewhere when reasonable when located
within their planning boundary. Maricopa County will provide
written notice of all entitlement actions requiring a public hearing
to all municipalities within 3 miles of the boundaries of an
entitlement proposal, and include municipality comments in staff
report attachments. However, until land is annexed Maricopa
County retains planning authority.”
This change is not reflected in the text on Page 48 of the Board of
Supervisors Draft. If adopted, the revision will be included in the
final plan.
Commission
Recommendation:
On 4/23/26 the Commission voted 7-0 (motion by Commissioner
Whitney
D3,
seconded
by
Commissioner
Leighton
D4)
recommending the Board of Supervisors approve CPA260002.
Presented by:
Adam Cannon, AICP, Senior Planner
Reviewed by:
Darren Gérard, AICP, Planning Manager
Attachments:
Framework 2040 Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan (251 pages)
5/20/26 P&Z Packet (605 pages)
Resolution of Adoption (2 pages)
Note:
5/20/26 Draft P&Z Minutes are not available as of the writing of this report, but can be
provided upon request later when available.
Board of
Supervisors Draft
May 20, 2026
Acknowledgments
Board of Supervisors
Kate Brophy McGee – District 3 (Chair)
Debbie Lesko – District 4 (Vice Chair)
Mark Stewart – District 1
Thomas Galvin – District 2
Steve Gallardo – District 5
Planning and Zoning Commission
Spike Lawrence – District 1
Jimmy Lindblom – District 1
Alex Finter – District 2
Linda Milhaven – District 2 (Chair)
Derrik Rochwalik – District 3
Warren Whitney – District 3
Mihai Toma – District 4
Jan Leighton – District 4
Erik Hernandez – District 5 (Vice Chair)
Kevin Danzeisen – District 5
Framework 2040 Project Team
Jen Pokorski, AICP, County Manager
Darcy Kober, Assistant County Manager
Tom Ellsworth, AICP, Director, Planning & Development Department
Darren Gérard, AICP, Deputy Director, Planning & Development Department
Rachel Applegate, Planning Supervisor
Adam Cannon, AICP, Senior Planner (Framework 2040 Comprehensive Plan Project Manager)
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
ii
For providing technical and professional review and expertise, special thank you to the following Maricopa County
departments and external agencies and organizations:
Most importantly, Maricopa County thanks all the citizens; property owners; community and business organizations;
federal, state and local agencies; and all other stakeholders that provided input on this plan. Thank you for your effort and
commitment to helping make the Maricopa County Framework 2040 Comprehensive Plan an effective guide for making
Maricopa County one of the best in the nation!
Maricopa County Air Quality Department
Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management
Maricopa County Department of Enterprise Technology &
Innovation
Maricopa County Department of Public Health
Maricopa County Department of Transportation
Maricopa County Environmental Services Department
Maricopa County Flood Control District
Maricopa County Government Relations
Maricopa County Human Services Department
Maricopa County Industrial Development Authority
Maricopa County Library District
Maricopa County Office of Communications
Maricopa County Office of Management & Budget
Maricopa County Parks & Recreation Department
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office
Arizona Department of Transportation
Arizona Department of Water Resources
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Arizona Public Service
Arizona Rock Products Association
Arizona State Land Department
Bureau of Land Management
County Supervisors Association of Arizona
Greater Phoenix Economic Council
Home Builders Association of Central Arizona
Luke Air Force Base
Maricopa Association of Governments
Salt River Project
The Consultant Team for the Comprehensive Plan was led by
with assistance from
Small Giants Marketing Agency
The Barnhart Company
iii
Acknowledgments
2
3
4
1
5
Executive Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Public Engagement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Plan Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
The Municipal-Rural Influence Framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Plan Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
The Reason for Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
History of Planning in Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Statutory Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Vision, Mission, and Strategic Priorities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
The Importance of the Comprehensive Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Comprehensive Plan Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Public Engagement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Guiding Themes & Desired Outcomes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
The Comprehensive Plan in Context . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
How Framework 2040 Relates to County Area Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
How Framework 2040 Relates to Other Plans, Ordinances,
& Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Relating to Other Jurisdictions’ Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Maricopa County Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Maricopa County Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Maricopa County Demographics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Maricopa County Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Table of Contents
iv
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
6
7
8
9
10
Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Economic Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Growth Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Open Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
v
Table of Contents
13
14
A
11
12
Table of Contents
Water Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Cost of Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Comprehensive Plan Adoption, Readoption,
and Amendments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .222
Comprehensive Plan Adoption & Amendment Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . 224
County Area Plan Adoption & Readoption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
Amendment Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Amendment Procedures (continued) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .230
Appendix I: Glossary of Defined Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Appendix II: Acronyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
Appendix III: Public Participation Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
Continued from previous page
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
vi
List of Maps
Map 1. Regional Context . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Map 2. Maricopa County Area of Jurisdiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Map 3. Land Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Map 4. Growth Trends in Unincorporated Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Map 5. Existing Land Utilization Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Map 6. Maricopa County Area Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Map 7. County Islands in Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Map 8. Military Bases and Decibel Contour Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Map 9. Military Installation, Range, or Arizona National Guard Site Influence Areas . . . . . . . . . 83
Map 10. Aggregates in Maricopa County Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Map 11. Fire Districts in Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Map 12. Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Map 13. Scenic Corridors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Map 14. The Areas of Municipal Influence and Rural Influence in Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . 95
Map 15. Maricopa County Land Use Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Map 16. MCDOT Functional Classification (Existing and Future) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
Map 17. Future Planned Freeway Facility Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Map 18. Floodplain Management in Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Map 19. Wildlife Connectivity in Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Map 20. Extent Land Subsidence Features in Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Map 21. Future Growth Hot Spot Growth Projection in Unincorporated Maricopa County . . . 171
Map 22. County Parks and Trails Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
Map 23. Energy Generation Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
vii
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
List of Figures
Figure 1. Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan Hierarchy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Figure 2. Age Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Figure 3. Generational Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Figure 4. Race and Ethnicity in Unincorporated Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Figure 5. Unincorporated Maricopa County Population Projection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Figure 6. Population Projection Comparison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Figure 7. Existing Land Utilization Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Figure 8. Median Household Income and Home Value in Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Figure 9. Percentage of Maricopa County Cost-Burdened Households . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Figure 10. Unincorporated Maricopa County Housing Units Construction by Decade . . . . . . . . 79
Figure 11. Municipal-Rural Influence Framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Figure 12. Summary of Sidewalk Facilities in Unincorporated Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Figure 13. Ozone, PM2.5, and PM10 Exceedance Days in Maricopa County per Year . . . . . . . . . 133
Figure 14. Educational Attainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Figure 15. Employment Growth Rate per Decade, 2020 - 2060 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Figure 16. Workforce Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Figure 17. Unemployment Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Figure 18. Worker Commute Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Figure 19. Source of Water in Phoenix AMA (in acre-feet), 2019 Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Figure 20. Water Demand in Phoenix AMA (in acre-feet), 2019 Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Figure 21. Public Participation Process: County Initiated-Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Figure 22. Public Participation Process: Comprehensive Plan Amendments
& Development Master Plan Amendments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250
Continued from previous page
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
viii
List of Tables
Table 1. Plan Goals and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Table 2. Land Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Table 3. Population Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Table 4. Annexations of Unincorporated Maricopa County and Population Density . . . . . . . . . . 64
Table 5. Existing Land Utilization in Unincorporated Maricopa County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Table 6. Urban Service and Infrastructure Considerations by Land Use Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Table 7. Land Use Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Table 8. MCDOT Roadway Functional Classifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Table 9. Maricopa County Bicycle Facility Inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Table 10. Employment Projections by RAZ by MPA, 2020-2060 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Table 11. Maricopa County Employment by Industry Sector, 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
Table 12. Maricopa County Industry Employment Projections by Sector, 2022-2032 . . . . . . . 156
ix
Table of Contents
1
Executive
Summary
In This Summary
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Public Engagement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Plan Elements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
The Municipal-Rural Influence Framework. . . . . . . . . 14
Plan Goals & Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
H1
The Framework 2040 Comprehensive Plan is Maricopa
County’s official guide for shaping growth and development
in its unincorporated areas over the next 10-20 years. This
plan provides a strategic foundation for evaluating past
trends, understanding current conditions, and charting a
clear, forward-looking path for the future.
Introduction
Developed in accordance with Arizona statutory requirements, the Comprehensive Plan
establishes a cohesive policy structure that promotes responsible land use, safeguards
public health and safety, and commits to meeting needs of the unincorporated areas
while ensuring the prudent use of public resources. Through this plan, Maricopa County
seeks to balance maintaining opportunity for future generations with stewardship of
the County’s natural systems and open spaces, in a manner that supports long-term
prosperity.
To help provide these outcomes with quality and consistency, Maricopa County uses
unifying vision and mission statements along with several strategic priorities.
Vision: Citizens serving citizens collaboratively, efficiently, and effectively.
Mission: Provide regional leadership and fiscally responsible services for a healthy,
safe community.
Strategic Priorities: Safe communities, best-in-class regional services, efficient
infrastructure, economic vitality, and fiscal stability.
Public Engagement
Framework 2040 represents the culmination of a two-year planning effort launched
in Spring 2024. Central to this planning process was an extensive and inclusive public
engagement strategy designed to ensure community voices shaped long-term priorities
and planning direction. Countywide outreach included:
13 public meetings, 3 virtual events, 2,400+ surveys, and multiple interactive web-
based engagement tools.
Top community priorities centered around: preserving open space, expanding
recreation, ensuring water security, improving public safety, and supporting
economic opportunities.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
12
Plan Elements
The Comprehensive Plan addresses nine critical overarching topics that influence future growth and development
across unincorporated Maricopa County. These topics, referred to as “elements” in the Comprehensive Plan, explore
key issues that guide the goals and policies shaping informed, effective decision-making. Below is a brief overview of
each element.
Land Use:
Promote coordinated, high-quality development; protect public health and safety; maintain
fiscal responsibility.
Transportation:
Expand and maintain a multimodal network; coordinate future regional vehicular safety
and capacity needs.
Environment:
Improve air and water quality; protect sensitive lands; mitigate hazards (i.e. wildfire,
flooding); preserve biodiversity.
Economic
Growth:
Diversify economy; support workforce development; attract innovation-driven industries.
Growth
Areas:
Assess the physical and social constraints and pressures for growth in the unincorporated
area.
Open
Space:
Expand regional parks and trails; protect scenic corridors; maintain connectivity.
Water
Resources:
Contribute to the long-term water supply through support of conservation, reuse, and
compliance with Assured Water Supply programs.
Energy:
Support a comprehensive energy source development strategy in the region; encourage
renewable energy and efficiency; plan for rising energy demand from technological
advancement.
Cost of
Development:
Require new growth to fund infrastructure and services; maintain transparency and fiscal
health.
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
13
The Municipal-Rural Influence
Framework
The Framework 2040 Comprehensive Plan introduces
a new strategic framework for managing both urban
and rural development across the unincorporated
County’s vast and varied landscape. It is titled the
Municipal-Rural Influence Framework, and it will
function as the signature guidestone for regarding
development decisions.
Municipal-Rural Influence
Framework
Identifies two areas in unincorporated Maricopa County:
Area
of
Municipal
Influence:
Areas
capable
of
supporting urban or suburban context development
provided necessary infrastructure and services are
available.
Area of Rural Influence: Areas more appropriate for rural
land uses and character and preservation of natural
landscape.
Urban Solutions for Urban
Development (USUD) Strategy
The evaluative strategy that Maricopa County employs to:
Evaluate infrastructure readiness (water, sewer, roads,
emergency services) as part of considering urban
development in unincorporated Maricopa County.
Gauge the ultimate feasibility of a Comprehensive Plan
Amendment or zoning district change in unincorporated
Maricopa County.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
14
Table 1. Plan Goals and Policies
LAND USE
Land Use Goal #1: Achieve a coordinated pattern of development.
Goal Statement: Ensure that development across the County is well-planned and cohesive, promoting
efficient land use and infrastructure, and leading to a more organized growth pattern.
Land Use Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports phasing plans for new urban development to coordinate
such development with new urban services and infrastructure.
Land Use Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports market feasibility studies, cost/benefit where warranted
to help determine when new urban development in unincorporated areas is appropriate.
Land Use Policy #1.3: Maricopa County supports considering the existence or readiness of urban
services and infrastructure as a factor in the approval or denial of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment or a
Zoneing District Change in accordance with the Urban Solutions for Urban Development strategy.
Land Use Policy #1.4: Maricopa County supports carefully evaluating development in areas where
infrastructure and public services are limited or not planned, with consideration of long-term service
delivery and fiscal impacts.
Land Use Policy #1.5: Maricopa County supports coordinating land use and infrastructure planning with
state agencies, other counties, municipalities, relevant utilities, federal agencies, and other regulatory
bodies.
Land Use Policy #1.6: Maricopa County supports annexation of urban development in unincorporated
Maricopa County by municipalities.
Land Use Policy #1.7: Maricopa County supports annexation of any unincorporated area of the County
that is within a municipal planning area and completely surrounded by a municipality or municipalities.
Land Use Policy #1.8: Maricopa County supports the prevention of forming new County Islands.
Plan Goals & Policies
The following represents this plan’s important goals and policies, listed in Table 1, organized based on their Chapter and
Element order:
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
15
Land Use Policy #1.9: Maricopa County supports planning coordination with adjacent municipalities,
landowners, and neighboring public community members for proposed development within County
Islands or municipal planning areas.
Land Use Policy #1.10: Maricopa County supports considering the plans and projects of overlapping or
neighboring agencies in the planning of unincorporated lands and invite comments and coordination
when appropriate.
Land Use Policy #1.11: Maricopa County supports flexible design and zoning techniques within county
islands or municipal planning areas through pre-annexation agreements, as needed, to align future
development with the standards and service expectations of the adjacent municipalities.
Land Use Policy #1.12: Maricopa County supports directing new urban development to the Urban Growth
Area identified in this plan and complying with the Urban Solutions for Urban Development strategy.
Land Use Policy #1.13: Maricopa County supports balanced land use patterns that include various
residential, retail, non-retail employment, and public and civic land uses when appropriate urban services
are available.
Land Use Policy #1.14: Maricopa County supports reducing the impacts of new urban development on
existing rural land uses, including but not limited to, agriculture, mining, and forestry.
Land Use Policy #1.15: Maricopa County supports reducing the impacts of new rural development and
new agriculture on existing urban land uses.
Land Use Policy #1.16: Maricopa County supports periodic reviews of the Area Plan Program and the
individual Area Plans to assess relevance, implementation progress, and alignment with the Maricopa
County Comprehensive Plan.
Land Use Policy #1.17: Maricopa County supports decommissioning an individual Area Plan upon Board
consideration and approval if the amount of unincorporated land within the area equals less than 50% of
the original total Area Plan limits.
Land Use Policy #1.18: Maricopa County supports requiring any Area Plan Update or new Area Plan to
use the land use designations in the Comprehensive Plan.
Land Use Goal #2: Protect public health, safety, and well-being within unincorporated Maricopa County.
Goal Statement: Implementing land use policies that prioritize the health, safety, and overall well-being of
residents is essential for creating desirable developments and destinations and maintaining a high quality
of life for existing residents.
Land Use Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports considering response times for public safety, fire, and
other emergency responders in determining the feasibility of new development in unincorporated areas.
Land Use Policy #2.2: Maricopa County supports public safety and security features included in the
design of new and existing development to promote safe and active communities.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
16
Land Use Policy #2.3: Maricopa County supports reducing the impacts of new development on Maricopa
County’s regional parks, the Maricopa Trail, and other public open spaces.
Land Use Policy #2.4: Maricopa County supports interconnected trails, parks, preserves, open space,
recreation centers, and similar features in new development areas where feasible.
Land Use Policy #2.5: Maricopa County supports the preservation of known and potential sources of
aggregates and related mining operations within its area of jurisdiction from sterilization by proximate
incompatible land uses.
Land Use Policy #2.6: Maricopa County supports land use buffers and land use transitions in urban/rural
interface areas, including near aggregate mining operations, military installations, proving grounds, and
the County’s regional parks.
Land Use Policy #2.7: Maricopa County supports the restoration of land to a beneficial condition on post-
aggregates mining reclamation sites, that may include future development if feasible considering site
conditions and the compatibility of nearby land uses.
Land Use Policy #2.8: Maricopa County supports flexible design and zoning techniques when used to
establish balanced and efficient land use patterns, and when used to protect important environmental
and open space areas and the connections between these areas.
Land Use Policy #2.9: Maricopa County supports the use of land use buffers and compatible land use
strategies near existing and future high voltage electric utility line corridors in coordination with power
utility companies.
Land Use Policy #2.10: Maricopa County supports land use compatibility within the High Noise or
Accident Potential Zone of Luke Air Force Base, Auxiliary Airfield #1, and the military auxiliary airfield near
the town of Gila Bend.
Land Use Policy #2.11: Maricopa County supports land use compatibility in the influence area of a
military installation or range or Arizona national guard site.
Land Use Goal #3: Encourage high-quality development.
Goal Statement: Development projects that meet high standards of design and construction are key for
enhancing the County’s aesthetic appeal and long-term viability.
Land Use Policy #3.1: Maricopa County supports mixed housing options.
Land Use Policy #3.2: Maricopa County supports residential development that contributes to maintaining
a long-term level of high quality of development.
Land Use Policy #3.3: Maricopa County supports steering housing in areas served by transportation
networks, in close proximity to job centers, and where public services and infrastructure are available or
readily available.
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
17
Land Use Policy #3.4: Maricopa County supports rehabilitation and/or abatement by private parties of
substandard, nuisance, vacant, and/or abandoned homes, buildings and land to protect neighborhoods
and property values.
Land Use Policy #3.5: Maricopa County supports subdivisions rather than unregulated land divisions
otherwise known as “wildcat” lot splits.
Land Use Policy #3.6: Maricopa County supports high-quality commercial centers and well-designed
offices, business, and industrial parks in the Urban Growth Area with a preference for these developments
to annex into a municipality.
Land Use Goal #4: Exercise sound financial management in land use decisions.
Goal Statement: Land use decisions that strengthen the County’s fiscal health and ensure long-term
financial stability are important and central to the financially responsible planning aims of the County.
Land Use Policy #4.1: Maricopa County supports compliance with its capital improvement and other
funding programs, except when reimbursement is made to the County for unplanned costs or when
private capital is used for the provision of services and infrastructure.
Land Use Policy #4.2: Maricopa County supports using homeowners’ associations and related
organizations and improvement districts to manage and maintain services, infrastructure, and amenities
to help limit impacts to taxpayers where appropriate.
Land Use Policy #4.3: Maricopa County supports using development agreements for large-scale urban
development to help limit financial impacts to the County.
Land Use Goal #5: Provide regional leadership on land use issues.
Goal Statement: The County seeks to take a proactive and leading role in addressing land use challenges
and setting standards for development in the region among the various jurisdictions in order to promote
best practices in land use planning.
Land Use Policy #5.1: Maricopa County supports promoting awareness about the unique aspects of living
in unincorporated areas.
Land Use Policy #5.2: Maricopa County supports periodic reviews of the Maricopa County Zoning
Ordinance and the initiation of specific amendments on an as needed basis.
Land Use Policy #5.3: Maricopa County supports periodic comprehensive updates of the Maricopa
County Zoning Ordinance on an as needed basis.
Land Use Policy #5.4: Maricopa County supports coordinated planning efforts between local, state, and
federal agencies.
Land Use Policy #5.5: Maricopa County supports coordinating with the Arizona State Land Department in
the planning and design of large-scale urban development in or adjacent to State Trust Land.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
18
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation Goal #1: Provide a comprehensive transportation system.
Goal Statement: Developing an integrated transportation network that meets the needs of all users is vital
to ensure that the system is accessible, efficient, and well-connected.
Transportation Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports compliance with the County Department of
Transportation’s currently adopted Transportation System Plan and its successor plans.
Transportation Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports adherence to its Transportation Improvement
Program and its successor programs.
Transportation Policy #1.3: Maricopa County supports using the preferred funding methods identified
in the Cost of Development element to pay for transportation improvements necessary for new
development.
Transportation Policy #1.4: Maricopa County supports new development funding unanticipated,
accelerated and nonprogrammed improvements where such development requires deviation from the
Transportation Improvement Program.
Transportation Policy #1.5: Maricopa County supports the preservation of rights-of-way, as necessary,
to maintain and extend the grid system, to support the state’s development of the highway-interchange
network, and to preserve the scenic corridors.
Transportation Policy #1.6: Maricopa County supports roadway planning that promotes identified scenic
corridors and wildlife habitat linkages and connectivity where necessary.
Transportation Policy #1.7: Maricopa County supports public education efforts that assist in reducing air
pollution.
Land Use Policy #5.6: Maricopa County supports working with state and federal agencies and utility
companies on any changes to their land ownership boundaries that could lead to acquiring land for local
public use.
Land Use Policy #5.7: Maricopa County supports coordinating with state and federal agencies and utility
companies to address safety and security issues associated with new development near the Palo Verde
Nuclear Generating Station.
Land Use Policy #5.8: Maricopa County supports the on-site incorporation of utility infrastructure by
developers and corridors in large-scale urban development that are necessary to provide essential utility
services to that development.
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
19
Transportation Goal #3: Support regional and interagency collaboration.
Goal Statement: Fostering collaboration among the transportation agencies in the region is critical to
create and maintain a more effective, integrated, and functionally competitive transportation system.
Transportation Policy #3.1: Maricopa County supports partnerships with municipalities in cost sharing
and mutual financial support for road repairs and improvements.
Transportation Policy #3.2: Maricopa County supports municipal annexation of roads that are adjacent to
County Islands.
Transportation Policy #3.3: Maricopa County supports intergovernmental agreements that allow for
municipal or private construction of roads in and passing through county islands to the standards of the
surrounding municipality where these roads are intended to be annexed by the municipality.
Transportation Policy #3.4: Maricopa County supports partnerships with federal, state, and local
governments and agencies for interjurisdictional traffic operations and management for the benefit of
regional safety and mobility.
Transportation Policy #3.5: Maricopa County supports coordination between property owners to
establish an agreement to maintain private ingress/egress.
Transportation Goal #2: Manage the transportation system to provide continual improvements in reliability,
efficiency, and safety.
Goal Statement: Continuously improving the reliability, efficiency, and safety of the transportation system
through active management is crucial to meet the community’s evolving needs.
Transportation Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports coordinating decisions on land use patterns and
transportation investments that aim for a safe, efficient, and fiscally solvent transportation network.
Transportation Policy #2.2: Maricopa County supports designing new roadways to include pedestrian
facilities separated from vehicular traffic with safe multimodal crossings on arterial roadways as
necessary.
Transportation Policy #2.3: Maricopa County supports the inclusion or connection to alternative
transportation in the design of existing and new urban development, as feasible and effective. Alternative
transportation can include, but is not limited to, sidewalks, the Maricopa Trail and other trail connections,
bicycle facility infrastructure, park-and-ride/public transit facilities, and other appropriate practices.
Transportation Policy #2.4: Maricopa County supports using Intelligent Transportation Systems and
Connected Vehicle technology for efficient and safe movement of people and goods.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
20
ENVIRONMENT
Environment Goal #1: Enhance the regional environmental quality for the overall well-being of the
community.
Goal Statement: Improving the overall environmental quality through improvements in air quality and
water quality and through the protection of natural resources is a benefit to the overall health of the
region.
Environment Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports providing education, regulatory guidance, permitting,
inspection, and enforcement services through the County Air Quality Department’s Strategic Plan and its
Compliance Assurance model to assist in achieving compliance with federal air quality standards.
Environment Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports the achievement and maintenance of federal air
quality standards, including National Ambient Air Quality Standards.
Environment Policy #1.3: Maricopa County supports incentive programs that promote implementing
clean air technologies and addressing air quality issues throughout Maricopa County where feasible and
effective.
Environment Policy #1.4: Maricopa County supports compliance with its Drinking Water program and its
Water and Wastewater Treatment program to protect water quality.
Environment Policy #1.5: Maricopa County supports a comprehensive program to control dust (PM10)
particularly from unpaved roads, alleys, and parking lots.
Environment Policy #1.6: Maricopa County supports noise reductions in new development design and in
the construction of new buildings where necessary or otherwise where feasible.
Environment Policy #1.7: Maricopa County supports enforcement of its Dark Sky Ordinance and supports
regional efforts to limit excessive nighttime light.
Environment Goal #2: Support the protection of sensitive lands and environments.
Goal Statement: The County aims to safeguard environmentally sensitive areas from the impacts of
development in order to preserve natural habitats and rural landscapes while accommodating growth in
the future.
Environment Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports planning future development while considering the
prohibition of development within floodways and, where necessary, 100-year floodplains as delineated by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Environment Policy #2.2: Maricopa County supports the Military Compatible land use designation for
High Noise or Accident Potential Zones, and compliance with state laws relating to land use compatibility
and consistency with the high noise or accident potential of Luke Air Force Base and the ancillary military
facilities.
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
21
Environment Goal #4: Strengthen the County’s preparedness for hazards.
Goal Statement: Strengthening the County’s ability to respond to hazards through effective planning
and preparedness reduces regional risk and builds resilience to foreseen and unforeseen environmental
threats.
Environment Policy #4.1: Maricopa County supports compliance with watercourse master studies and
plans and area drainage master studies and plans.
Environment Policy #4.2: Maricopa County supports fire and wildfire prevention and mitigation measures
in the design of development where necessary and appropriate.
Environment Policy #4.3: Maricopa County supports public education about the risks and limitations of
developing in hazard-prone areas.
Environment Goal #5: Provide regional leadership to promote all aspects of regional environmental quality.
Goal Statement: Leading efforts to promote environmental quality across the region is a key objective to
steering beneficial environmental stewardship.
Environment Policy #5.1: Maricopa County supports participating with local, state, and federal agencies
on developing solutions for State Implementation Plans that have not been addressed.
Environment Goal #3: Protect the natural biodiversity of the region.
Goal Statement: Protecting and promoting the region’s natural biodiversity is critical to conserving diverse
species and habitats within the County to preserve an ecological balance.
Environment Policy #3.1: Maricopa County supports reducing the impacts of new development and
urbanization on environmentally sensitive areas, including the habitats and migration corridors of native
wildlife (both fauna and flora).
Environment Policy #3.2: Maricopa County supports innovative project design and development
techniques that protect important plant and animal habitats, desert washes, and migration corridors.
Environment Policy #3.3: Maricopa County supports completing resource and biological surveys and
establishing needed mitigation measures prior to new development as directed by the Arizona Game and
Fish Department and the State Historic Preservation Office.
Environment Policy #2.3: Maricopa County supports the Military Compatible land use designations within
the influence area of a military installation or range or Arizona national guard site, and compliance with
state laws relating to land use compatibility and consistency with the operation of the installation, range,
or site and its influence area.
Environment Policy #2.4: Maricopa County supports flexible zoning techniques when used to keep new
development below the 15% hillside slope and to protect riparian areas.
Environment Policy #2.5: Maricopa County supports using the hillside general design characteristics
identified in this element.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
22
ECONOMIC GROWTH
Economic Growth Goal #1: Foster a diverse and balanced economy to promote long-term economic
stability and economic resiliency.
Goal Statement: Aiming for a diverse and resilient economy to ensure long-term stability and growth is
integral to creating a balanced economic environment that can withstand various economic challenges
locally and externally.
Economic Growth Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports coordinated and balanced land use patterns
that allow for both Basic and Non-basic sector businesses.
Economic Growth Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports assessing its regulations and processes to
enhance effectiveness, ensure quality service, increase efficiency, and establish a competitive advantage.
Environment Policy #5.2: Maricopa County supports continuing to build relationships and collaborations
between the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, and
other partners in the effort to preserve ecosystems.
Environment Policy #5.3: Maricopa County supports its Department of Emergency Management
continuing to work closely with local, state, federal partners, and community organizations.
Environment Policy #5.4: Maricopa County supports implementing the Multi-jurisdictional Hazard
Mitigation Plan to ensure a comprehensive and effective emergency management strategy for the region.
Economic Growth Goal #2: Support the growth of opportunity in the local and regional economies.
Goal Statement: Promoting initiatives that create economic opportunities for residents and businesses is
crucial in elevating job creation, entrepreneurship, and economic mobility.
Economic Growth Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports partnerships with a variety of entities and
stakeholders to increase business success and address community needs.
Economic Growth Policy #2.2: Maricopa County supports efforts to recruit prospective businesses and
industries to the County and efforts to retain existing businesses and industries.
Economic Growth Policy #2.3: Maricopa County supports the continuation and expansion of vocational,
technical, and emerging career workforce training in the region.
Economic Growth Goal #3: Cultivate a thriving business environment that incubates and retains innovative
companies.
Goal Statement: Attracting, retaining, and supporting innovative companies and a skilled workforce drives
a dynamic and competitive business climate.
Economic Growth Policy #3.1: Maricopa County supports implementing the Comprehensive Plan in a
clear and consistent way to help businesses make long-term investment decisions.
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
23
GROWTH AREAS
Growth Areas Goal #1: Address growth strategically to ensure orderly, compatible land use and reasonable
development.
Goal Statement: Ensuring orderly and reasonable growth through effective development planning
practices is crucial for providing the appropriate infrastructure needed to maintain a high quality of life.
Growth Areas Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports assurance of annexation, where feasible, of new
urban development and redevelopment sites within its Urban Growth Area.
Growth Areas Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports planning for urban/rural interface transition areas
between its Urban Growth Area and Rural Service Area.
Growth Areas Goal #2: Have urban growth that is consistent with the County’s Urban Growth Area, meets
statutory requirements, and implements the Urban Solutions for Urban Development strategy.
Goal Statement: The County’s Urban Growth Area allows for the growth of infrastructure, services, and
development according to the Urban Solutions for Urban Development strategy in order to protect the
public’s health, safety, and well-being.
Growth Areas Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports consistent implementation of and compliance with
its Urban Solutions for Urban Development strategy in its Urban Growth Area.
Growth Areas Policy #2.2: Maricopa County supports periodically evaluating the development
constraints and considerations identified in this element to determine how they impact the Urban Growth
Area, and whether they require reconsideration or modification.
Economic Growth Goal #4: Contribute to partnerships that advance an effective and integrated regional
economy.
Goal Statement: Strengthening the County’s role in the broader regional economy through effective
collaboration and integration emphasizes the importance of partnerships for regional economic success.
Economic Growth Policy #4.1: Maricopa County supports programs that provide citizens with the
education and training necessary to attain careers in emerging and high-demand fields.
Economic Growth Policy #4.2: Maricopa County supports organizations and programs that attract a
variety of Basic Sector industry clusters that have long-term, stable growth prospects.
Economic Growth Policy #4.3: Maricopa County supports the Maricopa County Industrial Development
Authority, HOME Investment Partnerships Program, Community Development Block Grant program, and
other economic opportunity incentive programs.
Economic Growth Policy #3.2: Maricopa County supports an economic environment that promotes
entrepreneurial activities and business formation.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
24
OPEN SPACE
Open Space Goal #1: Protect and expand the regional park system proportionately with population growth.
Goal Statement: Ensuring that the regional park system grows and integrates in proportion to meet the
needs and demands for recreational opportunities in the natural landscapes and spaces of an increasing
population in both the incorporated and unincorporated portions of Maricopa County.
Open Space Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports implementing the County Parks and Recreation
Department’s currently adopted Parks, Open Space & Trail System Plan, and any successor plan.
Open Space Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports soft edge treatments along the perimeter of its
regional parks, regional trail system, the El Rio corridor, and open space in unincorporated areas of the
County.
Open Space Policy #1.3: Maricopa County will coordinate with the planning initiative that seeks to
revitalize the Salt and Gila River corridors as vital ecological, cultural, and economic assets.
Open Space Policy #1.4: Maricopa County supports the mission and ongoing efforts of the Lower Gila
River Collaborative, a voluntary partnership focused on restoring the Lower Gila River ecosystem while
promoting stewardship, recreation, and compatible development.
Open Space Goal #2: Support access to both local and regional recreational opportunities and open space.
Goal Statement: Supporting appropriate public access to recreational lands and open spaces in
the region outside of the County’s jurisdiction is important for providing opportunities for exercise,
relaxation, enjoyment, and social interaction, while also supporting environmental conservation and local
economies.
Open Space Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports new residential developments using the local park
ratios identified in this plan as a guide for the provision of local recreational amenities.
Open Space Policy #2.2: Maricopa County supports user-based funding options for its regional park
system and regional trail system to help maintain high-quality amenities and access.
Open Space Goal #3: Maintain the Maricopa Trail and the Maricopa County Regional Trail System.
Goal Statement: Continue to protect and enhance the Maricopa County Trail System in addition to
working with regional municipalities to connect the trail system to their parks, preserves, and open space
systems.
Open Space Policy #3.1: Maricopa County supports dedication and improvement of trail right-of-way
within new development, including the Maricopa Trail and Maricopa County Regional Trail System.
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
25
WATER RESOURCES
Water Resources Goal #1: Contribute to the endurance of the region’s water supply and its delivery.
Goal Statement: Supporting the local water providers’ efforts to secure the reliability and endurance of the
region’s water supply ensures stability in water delivery necessary for planning future development and
the needs of the community.
Water Resources Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports residential development that is subject to
the requirements of the Arizona Department of Water Resources Assured and Adequate Water Supply
programs.
Water Resources Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports water adequacy determinations for new
subdivisions outside Active Management Areas.
Water Resources Policy #1.3: Maricopa County supports water conservation techniques in the planning
and design of new development.
Water Resources Policy #1.4: Maricopa County supports low water use and drought-tolerant landscaping.
Open Space Goal #4: Provide regional leadership to promote the preservation of the desert landscape
through protected recreational lands and open space.
Goal Statement: Leading efforts to preserve and conserve the natural landscape and wildlife habitats and
corridors through protected recreational lands and open spaces is a primary objective for the flourishing
of the unique environment of the Sonoran Desert for future generations.
Open Space Policy #4.1: Maricopa County supports the protection of scenic corridors and views as
outlined in adopted scenic corridor plans and in the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance.
Open Space Policy #4.2: Maricopa County supports partnering with municipalities to address edge
treatments along the perimeter of regional parks and the regional trail system.
Open Space Policy #4.3: Maricopa County supports partnering with adjacent federal and state agencies
to expand recreation opportunities and protect and preserve existing open space from development
pressures where feasible.
Open Space Policy #4.4: Maricopa County supports partnering with adjacent federal and state agencies
to promote responsible recreational activities and opportunities that aim to protect and preserve existing
parks, recreation areas, public lands, and open spaces.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
26
Water Resources Goal #3: Support and provide leadership for water conservation in the region.
Goal Statement: Leading initiatives to promote water conservation practices across the region is vital for
supporting the efficient and prudent management of water resources in the desert Southwest.
Water Resources Policy #3.1: Maricopa County supports informing the public about the importance and
benefits of water conservation.
Water Resources Policy #3.2: Maricopa County supports the collaboration of municipalities to implement
best practices for water planning and conservation.
ENERGY
Energy Goal #1: Support enhancing the stability and the development of the energy grid in the region.
Goal Statement: Improving the stability and reliability of the energy grid through resilient and dependable
energy infrastructure to support current and future regional energy needs.
Energy Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports an all-of-the-above energy strategy that incorporates both
traditional and alternative sources of energy to ensure that the energy supply is abundant and meets
demand.
Energy Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports expanding the energy generation supply and capacity to
meet the increased needs from future growth.
Water Resources Goal #2: Promote and protect regional water quality.
Goal Statement: Focusing on initiatives and best practices to maintain and improve water quality for all
users.
Water Resources Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports compliance with its Drinking Water Program and
its Water and Wastewater Treatment Programs.
Water Resources Policy #2.2: Maricopa County supports renewable water use for landscape, park and
common area irrigation; artificial lakes; and decorative water features.
Energy Goal #2: Increase energy efficiency through development patterns.
Goal Statement: Promoting development patterns that enhance energy efficiency is essential to reducing
the rate of demand for new energy generation sources.
Energy Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports energy efficient design and construction of new
development.
Energy Policy #2.2: Maricopa County supports energy conservation through balanced and efficient
development patterns where residential, commercial and employment land uses with complementary
compatibility are proximate.
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
27
Energy Goal #4: Coordinate energy initiatives/programs in the region.
Goal Statement: Aligning energy initiatives/programs with jurisdictions both within and outside of
Maricopa County ensures coordinated planning partnerships and viable development in the long-term.
Energy Policy #4.1: Maricopa County supports incentive programs that promote energy efficiency where
feasible and effective.
Energy Policy #4.2: Maricopa County supports efforts to assist businesses and individuals with
renewable energy options and energy conservation.
Energy Goal #3: Support energy development in the region.
Goal Statement: Encouraging the development of energy resources through investment in local energy
projects is requisite to support growth, development, and innovation within the region.
Energy Policy #3.1: Maricopa County supports energy conservation and emissions reduction through
allowing new development to provide alternative transportation options or connect to existing alternative
transportation infrastructure.
Energy Policy #3.2: Maricopa County supports the utilization of traditional, alternative, and clean
emission energy research and development.
Energy Policy #3.3: Maricopa County supports the use of appropriate setbacks and buffers to residential
uses from energy generation and/or energy storage facilities to prevent or lessen the impact from
potential fires and other potential hazards.
Energy Policy #3.4: Maricopa County supports developing energy infrastructure using low-impact
construction techniques and, where feasible, siting such energy infrastructure on previously disturbed
locations for the benefit of local wildlife (including flora and fauna).
Energy Policy #3.5: Maricopa County supports appropriate buffers and setbacks to ecological and
riparian habitats found along borders of significant washes and riverbanks from energy generation and/or
storage facilities.
Energy Policy #3.6: Maricopa County supports responsible and timely decommissioning of solar energy
generation and battery energy storage system facilities to ensure public safety, environmental protection,
and restoration of land to a beneficial condition.
Energy Policy #2.3: Maricopa County supports energy conservation through having new urban
development locate in cities and towns, and in the Urban Growth Area of the County identified in this Plan.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
28
Cost of Development Goal #2: Ensure transparency in financial reporting
Goal Statement: Providing clear and accurate financial information about the County to residents
and stakeholders is key to maintaining transparency in financial reporting that builds public trust and
accountability.
Cost of Development Policy #2.1: Maricopa County supports the provision of clear, accurate, and
accessible financial information related to the costs of development and to overall County operations.
COST OF DEVELOPMENT
Cost of Development Goal #1: Exercise sound financial management and build the County’s fiscal
strength.
Goal Statement: Making fiscally responsible decisions that strengthen the County’s financial health is
needed to ensure that development projects contribute positively to the County’s fiscal stability.
Cost of Development Policy #1.1: Maricopa County supports continuously evaluating the preferred
funding methods with respect to the legal, socioeconomic, land use and administrative considerations
identified in this element, and making changes when deemed necessary.
Cost of Development Policy #1.2: Maricopa County supports using the traditional and preferred funding
methods identified in this plan to offset costs of new development.
Cost of Development Policy #1.3: Maricopa County supports recouping the costs of its products and
services without unfairly burdening those most in need of its products and services.
Cost of Development Goal #3: Require that new development pays its proper and reasonable share of the
costs of new infrastructure, services, and other public improvements.
Goal Statement: Ensuring that new developments contribute their proportionate share to the costs
of infrastructure, services, and public improvements is important for reducing future liabilities and
protecting the long-term fiscal solvency of Maricopa County.
Cost of Development Policy #3.1: Maricopa County supports new development contributing its
proportionate share of the costs of infrastructure necessary to support the demand for electric, water,
sewer, and other services generated and necessitated by the development.
Cost of Development Policy #3.2: Maricopa County supports requiring new development to contribute
its proportionate share of long-term maintenance costs associated with the use of all new infrastructure
to support the demand for electric, water, sewer, and other services generated and necessitated by the
development.
Cost of Development Policy #3.3: Maricopa County supports requiring the provision of infrastructure,
facilities, and services needed by new development prior to that development, either directly or through
fees. Where appropriate, the construction of infrastructure and facilities may be phased to coincide with
project timelines.
Chapter 1 • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
29
2
Introduction
In This Chapter
The Reason for Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
History of Planning in Maricopa County. . . . . . . . . . . 33
Statutory Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Vision, Mission, and Strategic Priorities . . . . . . . . . . 35
The Importance of the Comprehensive Plan. . . . . . . 36
Comprehensive Plan Scope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Public Engagement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Guiding Themes & Desired Outcomes. . . . . . . . . . . . 42
The Reason for Planning
Understanding the significance of the Framework 2040 Comprehensive Plan
(Comprehensive Plan) begins with recognizing the value of planning itself. It is
often described as both an art and a science, reflecting its blend of technical
analysis and creative problem-solving. The way these diverse issues are
addressed directly influences public health and safety, economic stability,
environmental quality, the fulfillment of community needs, and the responsible
use of public funds.
A defining feature of planning is its foundation in public engagement. It is a
collaborative process in which citizens, stakeholders, and community leaders
work together to identify and respond to complex and evolving challenges.
Through dialogue and consensus-building, planning helps communities
anticipate future needs and develop practical, innovative solutions that reflect
shared values and long-term goals.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
32
History of Planning in
Maricopa County
Modern planning in the United States
began in the early 1900s as cities
faced growing social, environmental,
and
economic
challenges.
In
response, states adopted long-term
planning requirements to address
public health, safety, and quality of life.
The field was formalized with the 1926
and 1928 publication of federal zoning
and planning acts, which continue to
influence state and local planning
efforts, including those in Arizona.
Planning
in
Maricopa
County
began in the late 1950s with initial
studies focused on land use and
population growth at a regional
scale. In the decades that followed,
the County developed small-scale
plans for specific unincorporated
areas and assisted smaller growing
municipalities in preparing general
plans for their jurisdictions. Due to
its large geographic size and rapid
growth, Maricopa County introduced
Area Plans to address localized
planning needs. While Area Plans
remained a key component of the
County’s
strategy,
the
increasing
population and emerging Countywide
challenges
in
the
early
1990s
prompted the development of the first
County Comprehensive Plan for the
entire unincorporated area. Adopted
as Maricopa County 2020 – Eye to the
Future, this plan established policy
direction for land use, transportation,
economic development, growth areas,
and environmental stewardship.
Following
the
adoption
of
that
plan, Arizona enacted the Growing
Smarter and Growing Smarter Plus
legislation,
which
expanded
the
scope of comprehensive planning.
These laws required counties to
plan for areas of growth, open
space,
environmental
impacts,
water resources, and the financial
implications of new development.
They also introduced requirements
for
inclusive
public
participation,
stronger
coordination
with
the
Arizona State Land Department, and
consistency between zoning changes
and
comprehensive
plans.
In
response, Maricopa County updated
its Comprehensive Plan in 2002 to
meet these standards and added a
housing
affordability
component.
Subsequent
updates
incorporated
additional state mandates, including
land use protections around military
installations, safeguards for aggregate
resources and mining operations, and
policies promoting energy efficiency
and renewable energy.
The
Vision
2030
Comprehensive
Plan for Maricopa County was the
previous plan that the Board of
Supervisors approved in 2016. It
emphasized coordinated land use
planning, infrastructure investment,
stewardship
of
the
environment,
and economic development while
continuing to reinforce the importance
of preserving rural character where
appropriate. What set Vision 2030
apart was its introduction of the Urban
Solutions for Urban Development
(USUD)
strategy,
which
provided
clear, criteria-based guidance for
determining
where
urban-context
development
should
occur.
This
new strategy helped align land use
decisions with infrastructure capacity,
municipal planning efforts, and long-
term sustainability goals, ensuring
that
growth
was
both
strategic
and fiscally responsible. The USUD
strategy served as a key foundational
piece to the new planning framework
introduced in the Framework 2040
Comprehensive Plan.
Chapter 2 • INTRODUCTION
33
Statutory
Requirements
ARS §11-802: Requires that Maricopa County plan and provide for future
growth and improvement in its jurisdiction (i.e. unincorporated areas) to
promote public health, safety, convenience, and general welfare. This statute
also requires that Maricopa County coordinate all public improvements and
adopt and enforce rules, regulations, ordinances and plans regarding future
development.
ARS §11-804: Requires that Maricopa County prepare and adopt a long-term
Comprehensive Plan for unincorporated areas. Specifically, this plan must
address the following topics:
Arizona has long recognized the
need for careful and deliberate
planning and has laws directing
how Maricopa County must
prepare, adopt, and amend
this Comprehensive Plan. The
following is a summary of
how Arizona Revised Statutes
(ARS) directs the County’s
comprehensive
planning
responsibilities.
ARS §11-805: Requires Maricopa County to adopt and subsequently amend or
extend the Comprehensive Plan to serve as the official guide for development
of areas within its jurisdiction. This statute also outlines the procedures and
requirements for adopting and amending the Comprehensive Plan.
ARS §11-811: Requires that Maricopa County’s Zoning Ordinance, and all
rezoning and zoning amendments, be consistent with and conform to the
County’s Comprehensive Plan.
ARS §11-814: Requires that all rezonings be consistent with and conform to
the County’s Comprehensive Plan.
ARS §28-8481: Requires that Maricopa County adopt a Comprehensive
Plan that ensures development is compatible with the high noise or accident
potential generated by military airport and ancillary military facilities.
LAND USE
OPEN
SPACE
TRANSPORTATION
WATER
RESOURCES
ENVIRONMENT
ENERGY
GROWTH
AREAS
COST OF
DEVELOPMENT
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
34
Maricopa County Vision
Citizens serving citizens by working collaboratively, innovatively, efficiently and
effectively. We will be responsive to our customers while being fiscally prudent.
Maricopa County Mission
The mission of Maricopa County is to provide regional leadership and fiscally
responsible, necessary public services so that residents can enjoy living in a
healthy and safe community.
Maricopa County Strategic
Priorities
Maricopa County will support safe communities and neighborhoods by
providing access to a timely, integrated, and cost-effective smart justice
system.
Maricopa County will provide best-in-class regional services, both mandated
and of concern to citizens, while coordinating with municipalities, other local
jurisdictions, and community-based entities to consolidate services and
avoid duplication, when applicable.
Maricopa County will deploy an effective and efficient infrastructure to
implement streamlined policies and procedures improving delivery of
services, and promoting a healthy workplace and a fully engaged workforce.
Maricopa County will innovatively leverage its resources, be adaptive in its
regulatory policies and practices, and proactive in its public relations to
attract, promote and support the growth of business enterprises in order to
produce a vibrant and balanced regional economy.
Maricopa County will continue to efficiently manage County resources and
engage in effective fiscal planning with integrity and transparency to promote
financial stability and economic prosperity for Maricopa County residents.
Maricopa County’s authority is
limited to only what is specifically
required or allowed by state
law. The County provides many
services like public health and
healthcare, roads and related
infrastructure, flood control, law
enforcement, criminal justice,
education, parks and recreation,
libraries, animal control, election
oversight and community
development. To help provide
these services with quality and
consistency, Maricopa County
uses unifying mission and vision
statements along with several
strategic priorities. These
statements and priorities are a
commitment to achieving quality
results for residents.
Vision, Mission, and
Strategic Priorities
Chapter 2 • INTRODUCTION
35
The Importance of the
Comprehensive Plan
Fulfills Statutory Requirements
State law requires Maricopa County to prepare and adopt a Comprehensive Plan that includes specific
mandated elements while allowing flexibility to address additional issues as needed. Because laws and
societal conditions evolve, periodic amendments to the Comprehensive Plan may be necessary to maintain
compliance with state requirements and to ensure the plan remains responsive to public needs.
Protects Public Health
Protecting public health is a core responsibility of Maricopa County. The Comprehensive Plan supports this
goal by promoting efficient land use patterns that reduce air pollution and other environmental impacts. It
also encourages personal well-being through the development of interconnected open spaces that support
physical activity and safe travel by foot, bicycle, and other non-motorized means.
Protects Public Safety
The Comprehensive Plan enhances public safety by evaluating, coordinating, and approving new development
in consideration with essential infrastructure and services, including roads, law enforcement, fire protection,
and water and sewer systems. It also discourages development in hazardous areas where lives and property
may be at risk.
Protects General Welfare
The Comprehensive Plan protects the general welfare by evaluating land use, infrastructure, and public
services in a coordinated manner that supports the overall well-being of unincorporated Maricopa County.
Through this integrated approach, the Plan promotes orderly growth, efficient service delivery, and high-
levels of long-term community quality of life.
Prioritizes an Affordable Future
Maricopa County is committed to keeping its communities affordable and livable for everyone. Consequently,
the Comprehensive Plan actively promotes policies to maintain a low cost of living and expand access to
affordable housing. By prioritizing affordability, Maricopa County ensures that essential workers, young
professionals, and long-time residents can continue to call the County home.
Supports Consensus Building
Comprehensive planning is a collaborative process that considers the complex and interrelated nature of
social, economic, and environmental issues. While complete agreement on every issue may not be possible,
consensus is essential. The Comprehensive Plan reflects a continuous effort to build consensus and adjust
priorities as conditions and community needs change.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
36
Establishes New Development Framework for
Unincorporated Areas
The Comprehensive Plan proposes a new development framework, titled the Municipal-Rural Influence
Framework. This is an organizational framework that allows for all unincorporated land to be evaluated
under an established set of policies to determine where urban or rural development is most appropriate.
This framework also allows for development in County Islands not covered by a County Area Plan to be
more accountable to consider the surrounding context including, but not limited to, available infrastructure
and services, and community needs.
Promotes Quality Communities
The Comprehensive Plan supports the development of high-quality communities by encouraging the
inclusion of parks, open spaces, schools, libraries, and community centers. These features enhance quality
of life and foster a sense of connection among neighborhoods and residents.
Helps Allocate Limited Financial Resources
While new development can bring economic benefits, it also creates demands for services and infrastructure.
The Comprehensive Plan helps protect taxpayers by promoting balanced and efficient land use patterns that
broaden the tax base, reduce financial burdens, and support stable, economically resilient communities.
The plan’s Urban Solutions for Urban Development strategy ensures that growth is aligned with available
infrastructure and services, minimizing costly obligations. It also requires that new development contribute
its fair share toward the cost of necessary improvements.
Establishes Public Policy
The Comprehensive Plan sets forth policies that guide Maricopa County in addressing long-term social,
economic, and environmental challenges. These policies provide a consistent foundation for decision-
making, and that any deviation justified by demonstrating a clear benefit to the County as a whole.
Serves as a Decision-Making Guide
The Comprehensive Plan assists the County, residents, and businesses in making informed decisions about
development location, type, density, and infrastructure needs. It supports the creation of cost-effective
capital improvement programs, helps prioritize competing demands, and enables individuals and investors
to make choices based on the timely availability and quality of services in different areas.
Links Complex and Interrelated Issues
Development decisions have far-reaching impacts. Choices about residential densities and location
influence housing affordability, infrastructure needs, and service delivery. These, in turn, affect budgets, tax
policies, and the provision of services such as education, transportation, law enforcement, and emergency
services. Development patterns also shape employment opportunities, retail locations, traffic congestion,
and environmental quality. The Comprehensive Plan plays a vital role in navigating these interconnected
issues and guiding Maricopa County’s response to rapid growth and change.
Chapter 2 • INTRODUCTION
37
Comprehensive Plans and Zoning
Ordinances
Comprehensive plans are often mistaken for zoning ordinances, but they serve
different purposes. Framework 2040 is a policy and decision-making guide
that addresses community needs and sets long-range planning goals. It is not
regulatory. In contrast, the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO) regulates
how land can be developed by controlling factors such as land use type, building
height, lot size, and other parcel-specific standards. Although distinct, the zoning
ordinance supports the Comprehensive Plan because Arizona law requires that
any changes to zoning district boundaries be consistent with and conform to the
adopted plan.
Flexibility and Certainty
The Comprehensive Plan provides clear and consistent policies that help reduce
uncertainty in land use decisions. However, to remain relevant, the plan must be
adaptable to changes in state law, environmental conditions, economic trends,
political leadership, and community priorities. Maricopa County will periodically
review the plan and update the plan in accordance with ARS requirements,
ensuring that any revisions enhance County conditions without compromising
the Plan’s core principles.
Countywide Scope
A common misconception is that the Comprehensive Plan applies to the entire
county. In actuality, the Comprehensive Plan only governs unincorporated areas.
Each municipality within Maricopa County has its own general plan that applies
to its specific jurisdiction. While municipal plans may extend into unincorporated
areas and include areas that could be annexed in the future, the Comprehensive
Plan remains the guiding document for those areas until annexation occurs.
Planning Horizon
Unlike many municipal general plans that envision a full build-out scenario,
the Comprehensive Plan takes a more focused approach by planning for
approximately the next 10-20 years. Given the County’s vast size and the many
uncertainties it faces, projecting land use and development patterns beyond
this timeframe is neither practical nor advisable. This shorter horizon allows
Maricopa County to plan in a deliberate and flexible manner, responding to
change while maintaining long-term vision.
Comprehensive Plan Scope
While the importance of
long-term planning is well
understood, comprehensive
planning has limitations that
must be acknowledged.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
38
Public Engagement
Engagement Approach
Throughout the planning process, the Comprehensive Plan team worked to
gather input from a broad range of voices to help shape the County’s future. To
accomplish this, the team designed multiple engagement formats aimed at:
Collecting feedback from County residents
Exploring key topics in depth
Ensuring representation of varied experiences and perspectives
Outreach by the Numbers
13
Public Meetings
held throughout
3
All-County Grand
Virtual Meetings
5 Supervisor Districts
all
7
in
unique locations
154
responses in collaborative mapping
activities (in-person and virtual)
577 idea wall posts and comments
2,407
completed surveys
9,325
visits to virtual outreach
tools
6,505 unique visitors
3,138
participants in virtual
engagement activities
12,000+
visits to the
Comprehensive Plan website
25 participants
5
Technical Advisory
Committee meetings
with regional
stakeholders
in
Chapter 2 • INTRODUCTION
39
Engagement Methods
Public participation opportunities included individual surveys, one-on-one
conversations, stakeholder meetings, in-person Supervisor District workshops,
and countywide Grand Virtual Events.
To reach underrepresented communities, the team coordinated with non-profits,
political action groups, and neighborhood/HOA organizations to organize small
group meetings and tailor outreach efforts.
A list and description of each engagement tool is outlined below:
Digital Outreach: A dedicated website (Framework2040.com) was used to
inform residents, announce upcoming events, share draft documents, and
launch community involvement activities. During the planning process, social
media and e-blasts also served as key communication tools to keep residents
informed and engaged. The County used platforms such as Facebook, X,
and Instagram to share updates about the project, provide links to available
documents, and promote opportunities for public participation, including
surveys, virtual meetings, and comment periods.
In-Person Workshops: The heart of public engagement activities was
facilitated through a workshop series of ten in-person meetings hosted within
each Supervisor District. These meetings were used to collaboratively review
and discuss existing and future conditions with participants. To ensure all
those who participated had an equal voice, different types of interactive
exercises and real-time polling technology was used to record live audience
opinions. The use of public outreach technology offered the team a chance
to visualize public opinion and residents the ability to frame follow-up
discussions around direct polling reactions.
Virtual Workshops: To account for residents busy lifestyles, participants
were also able to engage at different points in the planning process by joining
three countywide Grand Virtual Events that were hosted online. Identical to in-
person meetings, live interactive polling was used that allowed participants to
give real-time feedback. Results were displayed instantly to make the virtual
presentations more engaging.
Countywide Surveys: Multiple online surveys were used at various points in
the process to evaluate resident satisfaction with existing county qualities
and public preferences for prioritizing future efforts.
Interactive Mapping: The County also engaged participants by initiating
an interactive mapping application, via the project website, so that the
geographical context of any particular challenge or opportunity could be
captured for use in the development process of the Comprehensive Plan.
Idea Wall: Participants were able to take part in a broad, virtual “idea wall”
conversation that explored the question “How can Maricopa County be
improved in the decades ahead?” Respondents posted text, pictures, and/or
videos that captured their ideas regarding the future of the county.
Technical Advisory Committee (TAC): Composed of County officials,
representatives from governmental agencies, professionals from housing
and economic development associations, and regional service providers,
the TAC met routinely throughout the plan development process to provide
technical expertise and assist in shaping plan recommendations.
All meetings were facilitated by County staff or project consultants. They guided
activities, engaged in personal conversations with participants, and answered
questions about the planning process.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
40
What We Heard
The specific takeaways described in this section were summarized and tallied
from multiple engagement events conducted as part of the Comprehensive Plan
process. Public input includes comments and activity entries from the virtual
and in-person workshops; the project website and resident surveys; as well as
input from the online collaborative mapping.
Residents want to see the Comprehensive Plan focus on:
Preserve both natural and rural landscapes – Prioritize protecting open
spaces, desert ecosystems, and maintaining scenic rural landscapes.
Expand access to recreational lands and opportunities – Increase parks,
trails, and outdoor spaces to promote health, wellness, and accessibility for
all.
Encourage high-quality development – Promote development that is aligned
with community values.
Protect the regional water supply – Foster water conservation, proactive
management, and infrastructure for long-term supply security.
Support the improvement of safety coverage and response times – Enhancing
emergency response times and coordination across urban and rural areas.
Continue business environment for economic opportunities – Support local
businesses and attracting investments for industry and job growth.
Chapter 2 • INTRODUCTION
41
Guiding
Themes
& Desired
Outcomes
Where are we going…
The Comprehensive Plan visualizes a County where the unique needs of the
varying population groups in the County are strategically met by the ability to
provide local, affordable options for housing, efficient transportation systems,
and robust industry. Ultimately, aiming for initiatives that protect the County’s
established prominence will also lead to the continued enjoyment of the varying
lifestyles that exist across the County. In turn, future residents can then protect
and contribute to the endurance of what the County has to offer.
Based on the results of engagement activities and conversations
with the community, three guiding themes emerged as the top
outcomes desired from the Comprehensive Plan.
These guiding themes and desired outcomes are integrated throughout the
Comprehensive Plan and serve as the overlapping foundation for its collective
goals and policies. Brief reminders are provided in each chapter to convey
how these community-driven priorities were translated into interconnected
strategies. As these themes are closely interrelated, it is important to recognize
they are intended to be viewed as being equal in weight and are not listed in any
particular order of importance.
Where are we today…
Maricopa County is one of the fastest growing places in the nation. Quality of
life investments, emerging industries, and comfortable weather patterns have
resulted in many community benefits that have made the County quite attractive
to residents and businesses seeking to settle and thrive here.
Residents recognize these significant assets create a unique character to the
County and establish a cherished built and natural environment. However,
residents are increasingly concerned that uncontrolled growth will not only
negatively impact currently available opportunities but also hinder the ability to
leave the County better for future residents who will make Maricopa County their
home.
Opportunity
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
42
Where are we today…
Maricopa County uses the best available information to protect, enhance, and
integrate new development to reduce environmental impacts and preserve
the recognized special importance of the County’s natural systems and open
spaces.
When thinking about the future and growth in general, the community consistently
identified the protection of natural open spaces, farms, and parks as one of the
most important opportunities and one of the most important challenges the
County faces as it plans for the next decade and beyond. This prevalent focus
is further supported as the community identified the limited availability of water
and poor air quality as some of their biggest concerns related to growth and
development in the County.
Where are we going…
The Comprehensive Plan recognizes residents’ strong desire to protect natural
open space, enhance recreation areas and activities, and promote local food
production to support the livability and prosperity of the region. Within this
context, anticipated population growth will also require the region to evaluate
and identify long-term water management practices, alternative energy sources,
and thoughtful land development policies and regulations. Furthermore, the
region will need to sustain rural lands and their character by directing larger and
higher concentrations of growth to municipalities.
Where are we today…
Maricopa County oversees a prosperous economy that features significant job
growth and a multitude of industry sectors that offer a wide range of wages
and career advancement. The County cultivates business development to
purposefully enrich the community economically and socially so as to allow all
residents better access to paths for economic growth.
Resident feedback expressed an appreciation for the unique experiences and
employment options that draw people of all ages and interests to Maricopa
County. However, the community desires to closely manage this prosperity
to ensure the intensity and scale of non-residential development respects the
surrounding character. There is greatest interest within the community to support
the development of technology and healthcare-related industries. Furthermore,
collected input showed strong support for ensuring growth pays for itself.
Where are we going…
The Comprehensive Plan assists in managing economic growth, particularly
in municipal planning areas to ensure the infrastructure and utilities needed to
support such growth are readily available.
Stewardship
Prosperity
Chapter 2 • INTRODUCTION
43
3
The
Comprehensive
Plan in Context
In This Chapter
How Framework 2040 Relates
to County Area Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
How Framework 2040 Relates to Other Plans,
Ordinances, & Regulations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Relating to Other Jurisdictions’ Plans. . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
The Comprehensive Plan outlines the overarching policies and expectations for
development in Maricopa County’s unincorporated areas. However, given the
vast size and variety of these areas, the Comprehensive Plan cannot feasibly
address every local or site-specific issue or interest. To account for this fact,
the County relies on its Area Plan Program to address localized unincorporated
needs, priorities, and unique conditions.
Since 1997, Maricopa County has utilized Area Plans as more focused planning
documents tailored to the distinct characteristics and issues of specific parts
within the County that are expected to see increased growth. These could be
related to community characteristics, topography, environmental context,
special conditions, etc. Each Area Plan has been coordinated with the respective
residents and stakeholders within the extent of the Area Plan to address local
concerns. While able to be implemented individually, each Area Plan also
supports and works in concert with the overarching vision of the Framework
2040 Comprehensive Plan. Maricopa County has eight active Area Plans, which
vary in size, scope, and location to reflect the distinctive communities they serve.
These eight Area Plans are:
Daisy Mountain/New River Area Plan
Goldfield Area Plan
Old U.S. Highway 80 Area Plan
Rainbow Valley Area Plan
Rio Verde Foothills Area Plan
State Route 85 Area Plan
Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan
White Tank Grand Avenue Area Plan
As Area Plans reflect the structure of the Comprehensive Plan, they each include
goals and policies, strategies and a future land use map, tailored for the individual
areas.
How
Framework
2040
Relates
to County
Area Plans
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
46
The Comprehensive Plan addresses future growth, but there are other County plans, ordinances, and regulations
that influence development. Figure 1 shows how the plan fits with these and within overall county operations.
How Framework 2040 Relates
to Other Plans, Ordinances, &
Regulations
Mission, Vision, Strategic Priorities
County Area Plans
Scenic Corridor & Special
Studies
Capital Improvement
Program
Other Maricopa County Plans,
Ordinances, Regulations
Dept. of
Transportation
Flood Control
District
Environmental
Services
Air Quality
Community/
Economic
Development
Emergency
Management
Human Services
Library District
Parks &
Recreation
Public Health
Sheriff’s Office
Solid Waste
BROAD
POLICY
SPECIFIC
IMPLEMENTATION
STRATEGIES
Zoning Ordinance
Abatement
Ordinance
Hours of
Operation
Ordinance
Subdivision
Regulations
Addressing
Regulations
Construction
Codes
Ordinances, Regulations,
& Guidelines
County Budget
Figure 1. Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan Hierarchy
Comprehensive
Plan Amendment
Guidelines
Public
Participation
Guidelines
Licensing Time
Frames Ordinance
Dark Sky
Ordinance
Noise Ordinance
Chapter 3 • THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN IN CONTEXT
47
Relating to Other Jurisdictions’ Plans
An important feature of this Comprehensive Plan is how it considers other jurisdictions’ plans for future growth. This is
challenging given that the federal and state government, as well as the many cities, towns and Native American communities
all manage development in certain areas. Despite this challenge Maricopa County coordinates with these jurisdictions
where practical to ensure consistent growth patterns. The following is how this coordination occurs.
Municipal General
Plans
Arizona cities and towns have general plans for their
respective jurisdictions, and it is common for these
plans to extend into unincorporated areas that may
someday be annexed. Maricopa County recognizes
these plans and the need to coordinate planning
with municipalities, in particular for County Islands
to obtain assurance of annexation when necessary.
Maricopa County will evaluate development proposals
for alignment with municipal comprehensive and
general plans when located within their planning
boundary. Maricopa County will provide written notice
of all entitlement actions requiring a public hearing
to all municipalities within 3 miles of the boundaries
of an entitlement proposal, and include municipality
comments in staff report attachments. However, until
land is annexed Maricopa County retains planning
authority.
Federal Government
Maricopa County includes a lot of federally managed
land including the Tonto National Forest, Barry
M. Goldwater Range, Sonoran Desert National
Monument, and several wilderness and wildlife
areas. The federal government prepares plans
for these areas which are generally off-limits to
development but instead are managed for a specific
purpose such as scenic, cultural, and recreational
benefits or national priority. Maricopa County
reaffirms its commitment to coordinate with federal
agencies, especially in areas adjacent to federal land,
to help avoid potentially adverse impacts from new
development.
Arizona State Land
Department
State law requires the Arizona State Land Department
(ASLD) to develop long-term plans for certain Trust
lands under their management. Maricopa County
has many parcels of Trust land within its jurisdiction,
but not all of them have been included in an ASLD
Conceptual Plan. Where they have been included
in an ASLD Conceptual Plan, Maricopa County
must cooperate with the ASLD to integrate planned
lands into its own Comprehensive Plan or Area
Plans where appropriate. Further, in accordance
with ARS § 11-804.E, any Trust Land designated as
open space, recreation, conservation, or agriculture
within a County plan shall have a default minimum
development density of one dwelling unit/acre,
Maricopa County will continue coordinating with the
ASLD on strategies that enhance value to the Trust
and in alignment with the County Comprehensive
Plan.
Native American
Communities
Maricopa County also has several Native American
Communities but given their sovereign nation status
the Comprehensive Plan does not apply to such
areas. Instead, each Community is responsible
for preparing land management plans for the area
within its jurisdictional limits. Maricopa County does
engage in on-going coordination with the Native
American Communities for projects that are in close
proximity to their jurisdictional limits.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
48
Chapter 3 • THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN IN CONTEXT
49
4
Maricopa County
Overview
In This Chapter
History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Maricopa County Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Maricopa County Demographics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Maricopa County Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
History
Archaeological evidence indicates that Maricopa County
was inhabited as far back as 9,000 B.C. by nomadic tribes
that traveled and lived throughout the Americas. The
first known permanent settlers were the Hohokam who
occupied the area between approximately A.D. 500 and
1450. It is believed the Hohokam lived in progressively
larger villages and harnessed the waters of the Salt and
Gila Rivers by constructing extensive canal systems to
grow and sustain annual crops; however, around the
year 1300 the Hohokam began abandoning the region
surrounding the Salt and Gila River Valleys for reasons
that currently remain unknown. Many of the canals left
behind by the Hohokam were used by later European
and American settlers. From 1540 until 1821, the area
that would become Maricopa County was under Spanish
rule. It then became part of the Republic of Mexico when
independence was declared from Spain.
The first permanent settlers of European
descent arrived in the area in the early
1800s. It was not until the California Gold
Rush of the mid-1800s that the population
of the Salt River Valley began to grow
rapidly. The increasing presence of the U.S.
Army also contributed to the area’s growth.
Following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
in 1848 ending the Mexican-American
War and the Gadsen Purchase in 1853,
the region that would eventually become
Maricopa County came under the control
of the United States of America.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
52
Maricopa County was officially formed in 1871.
The Desert Land Act of 1877 and the expansion
of agriculture production fueled further growth
and additional settlement in the County. The
Territorial Capital was moved in 1889 from
Prescott to Maricopa County in Phoenix, which
would continue as the state capital in 1912 when
Arizona was admitted as the 48th state. Slow
and steady growth characterized the County
following statehood until World War II.
After the War, growth in Maricopa County
accelerated
rapidly
due
to
industrial
development, widespread use of automobiles
and air conditioning that made the extreme
heat of the desert summer tolerable for its new
residents. The steady influx of residents has
spurred rapid development in the County as it
transitioned from an agricultural economy to
a more diversified one, with industries such as
electronics and manufacturing taking root.
The municipalities of the County adopted annexation
policies in this timeframe, reducing the total amount of
Maricopa County’s unincorporated land. The construction
of freeways and other infrastructure projects supported
these growth patterns. During this time, the County faced
challenges, such as the aftermath of the recession of
2007 through 2009, which slowed growth temporarily.
Following several years of slow economic recovery,
Maricopa County has experienced increasing economic
diversity and growth for most of the 2010s and the early
2020s with a noticeable pause in this trend as a result of
the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020-2021. Today, Maricopa
County is emerging as a national and international hub for
semiconductor manufacturing and large-scale technology
investment. Through all the development and growth of
the past 80 years, Maricopa County has solidified its place
as an exceptional place to live and one of the fastest
growing counties in the country.
Chapter 4 • MARICOPA COUNTY OVERVIEW
53
Maricopa County Profile
Regional Context
Located in the south-central part of
Arizona as seen in Map 1, Maricopa
County is neighbored by Yavapai
County to the north, Gila County to the
east, Pinal and Pima Counties to the
south, and La Paz and Yuma Counties
to the west. Maricopa County’s seat is
the City of Phoenix, which also serves
as the state capital of Arizona. It is the
most populous city in the state and the
fifth-most populous city in the United
States (US). Maricopa County is
notably the largest county in the nation
in terms of area in which the capital
city of the state sits. The County
includes 23 other municipalities within
its boundaries. There are several other
communities that are unincorporated,
comprising the spectrum of rural and
urban development patterns. These
unincorporated areas are under the
direct jurisdiction of Maricopa County.
There are also four Native American
communities within the boundaries
of the County, which are the Fort
McDowell Yavapai Nation, the Gila
River Indian Community, the Salt River
Pima-Maricopa Indian Community,
and the Tohono O’odham Nation.
Maricopa County is Arizona’s most
populous county. As of the 2022
American Community Survey (ACS),
the entire County had a population of
4,430,871, accounting for about 62% of
the State of Arizona’s total population.
It has the fourth largest population
residing
within
its
boundaries
compared to the other counties and
county equivalents in the country.
In terms of area, Maricopa County
encompasses 9,224 square miles of
land, making it the 15th largest county
by area in the country and larger than
eight individual states in total land
area. The County stretches 132 miles
from west to east and 103 miles from
north to south with diverse geography
including parts of the Sonoran Desert
and the Tonto National Forest. Of the
14 counties in the country with a larger
area than Maricopa County, only one
of those counties has a population
over
two
million
residing
within
its boundaries. Maricopa County,
therefore, operates in a unique position
as a large county by area combined
with a large population within its area
of jurisdiction.
4th
MOST
POPULOUS
COUNTY IN
THE COUNTRY
8
LAND
AREA
GREATER
THAN
STATES
Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2022 American
Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; Michael
Baker International Analysis, 2026
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
54
Map 1. Regional Context
4,430,871
TOTAL POPULATION
62%
SHARE OF ARIZONA’S
POPULATION
15th
LARGEST COUNTY BY AREA
IN THE U.S.A.
9,224
Square Miles
TOTAL LAND AREA
Maricopa County
by the Numbers
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; Michael Baker
International Analysis, 2026
Chapter 4 • MARICOPA COUNTY OVERVIEW
55
Area of
Jurisdiction
While the total area within the boundaries of Maricopa County is 9,224 square
miles, the area of jurisdiction for the Comprehensive Plan is comprised of the
6,596.53 square miles, or 4,221,777 acres, of unincorporated land in Maricopa
County. This means that Maricopa County’s area of jurisdiction of unincorporated
land is about 71.51% of the total land within the County’s boundaries. Conversely,
23.90% of the total land within the limits of Maricopa County is under the
jurisdiction of an incorporated municipality, and 4.59% of the total land is
under the jurisdiction of one of the four Native American communities within
the County’s limits, which are the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, the Gila River
Indian Community, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, and the
Tohono O’odham Nation. Map 2 shows the distinction between the incorporated
and unincorporated areas of the County, as well as the location of the Native
American communities. As of 2022, the total population estimated to live in
Maricopa County’s area of jurisdiction is 308,633 (ACS 2022).
Geography
The County’s many mountains contrast with its relatively low desert areas,
evidenced by elevations that range from approximately 300 feet above sea level
near Gila Bend to over 7,600 feet in the Four Peaks Wilderness Area. Higher
elevations in northeast and some mountains of central, southern and western
Maricopa County contain small woodlands and forests, while lower elevations
include desert scrub, saguaro and other cactus species. However, the most
diverse native and non-native plant and animal species are found along the
county’s many rivers, streams and washes.
Climate
Located within the Sonoran Desert, Maricopa County experiences a subtropical
desert climate. Temperatures in the County can vary significantly due to the
contrasts in elevation. Summer temperatures in lower desert areas regularly
exceed 110°F. However, winter temperatures in higher mountain elevations can
fall well below freezing (32°F) and significant snowfall may occur.
Water
Due to its dry climate and desert environment, residents in municipalities and
unincorporated Maricopa County cannot solely rely on surface water within
the County limits to sustain the levels of growth and development that have
persisted since the mid-20th century. Originating as runoff from snow melt in
higher elevations to the north, the Salt and Verde Rivers were the initial sources
of surface water in the County and continue to be important sources today. The
second noteworthy source of surface water is the water that is supplied by the
approximately 336-mile Central Arizona Project (CAP) Canal, bringing about 1.5
million acre-feet of water from the Colorado River to Pima, Pinal and Maricopa
Counties. Yet even with multiple surface water sources, periodically persistent
droughts in the Colorado River basin mixed together with population growth and
high water-use industrial developments require strategies to ensure dependable,
long-term supplies of groundwater. Most water conservation efforts are
overseen by the Arizona Department of Water Resources including the Active
Management Area (AMA) program and the Arizona Water Banking Authority that
regulates groundwater pumping to control stress on aquifers. These and other
state and local efforts work toward ensuring safe and reliable water supplies for
future population growth and to provide for the needs of existing residents.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
56
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development, 2026
Map 2. Maricopa County Area of Jurisdiction
71.51%
This percentage represents the portion of total land within
Maricopa County’s boundaries that constitutes the County’s
area of jurisdiction of unincorporated land.
Chapter 4 • MARICOPA COUNTY OVERVIEW
57
Land Ownership
Data for land ownership is managed
and presented by the Bureau of
Land Management’s (BLM) surface
land management program which
administers federal, state, and private
land ownership across the country.
This data was augmented by recent
updates to State Trust Land from
the ASLD. Land ownership (Table 2)
within the Maricopa County area of
jurisdiction is predominantly held by
five classifications of landowners.
The top five classifications are BLM,
Military, Private, US Forest Service,
and State Trust land which together
account for 98.4% of the ownership
of the total unincorporated land in
Maricopa County. BLM comprises
over 37.5% of the County’s land, with
the land concentrated in the County’s
western and southern areas. Military
installations are the second most
prominent landowner with the Barry M.
Goldwater Air Force Range, located in
the southernmost extent of the County,
accounting for 16.6% of the military
land holdings in the County. Privately
owned land accounts for 16.6% of
unincorporated Maricopa County, at
just under 1,100 square miles. The
US Forest Service owns 15.5% of the
land in the area of jurisdiction, which
consists of the Tonto National Forest
located in the entirety of northeastern
Maricopa County. State Trust Land,
managed by the ASLD, encompasses
11.5% of the unincorporated area at
758 square miles. Map 3 displays
the locations of the land ownership
categories in the area of jurisdiction
of Maricopa County. While Native
American Communities are not part
of the County’s area of jurisdiction, it
is noteworthy to mention that there
are 423.88 square miles of tribal land
within the boundaries of Maricopa
County.
Table 2. Land Ownership
Land Ownership
Percent of Total
Land
Square Miles
Arizona Game & Fish Department (AZGFD) Wildlife Area
0.145%
9.56
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
37.530%
2,475.66
Bureau of Reclamation (BOR)
0.029%
1.91
County
0.004%
0.26
Military
17.192%
1,134.09
Private
16.624%
1,096.60
Regional/County Park
1.465%
96.63
State Trust Land
11.490%
757.95
US Forest Service (USFS)
15.521%
1,023.83
US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
0.001%
0.04
TOTAL
100.000%
6,596.53
Native American Tribal Land
---
423.88
Source: Bureau of Land Management, Arizona State Land Department
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
58
37.53%
This percentage represents the portion of County land that
is owned by the Bureau of Land Management
Source: Bureau of Land Management, 2025; Arizona State Land Department, 2025
Map 3. Land Ownership
Chapter 4 • MARICOPA COUNTY OVERVIEW
59
Age Groups
The median age in Maricopa County
is 37.1, which is lower than the median
age for the State. Compared to both
the incorporated area of the County
and Arizona overall, unincorporated
Maricopa County follows a similar trend
for the distribution of the population by
age groups until the 65 and older group.
The three jurisdictions have smaller
and relatively even distributions for the
under 25 age groups and the 55-65 age
groups. Slight increases in distribution
are seen in the early adulthood and middle age range from 25-54. Like Arizona,
unincorporated Maricopa County has a larger number of residents over the age
of 65 than the other age groups as shown in Figure 2.
Maricopa County Demographics
As mentioned previously, the total population estimated to live in Maricopa
County’s area of jurisdiction according to 2022 is 308,633. Further population
data breakdowns follow below.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Figure 2. Age Groups
Generational Change
The
composition
of
growth
in
unincorporated
Maricopa
County
shows
the
percentage
of
the
population that is comprised of the
Baby Boomer generation (born 1946
to 1964) and Millennial generation
(born 1980 to 1994) grew by 7% and
4% respectively from 2010 to 2022.
The Alpha generation (born 2010 to
2024) also emerged over this period
and consists of approximately 14%
of the population in unincorporated
Maricopa County. Figure 3 shows this
shift over the twelve-year period from
2010 to 2022 of generations living in
unincorporated Maricopa County.
The reason for this generational shift
is likely due to several factors. The
Baby Boomer generation now has
the highest number of residents in
unincorporated areas, taking the place
that the Greatest and Silent Generation
cohorts held in 2010. This makes
sense as the youngest members of
the Baby Boomers are now older than
the minimum 55-year age requirement
for Sun City, Sun City West, and other
large
age-restricted
communities
located throughout unincorporated
Maricopa
County.
Millennials
surpassed the Gen X generation group
in the 2022 data. Housing affordability,
while significantly lessened since
2020, plays a part of the Millennial
generation increase as the median
home value within unincorporated
Maricopa County is lower when
compared to equivalent housing types
in municipalities located within the
County.
The
generational
composition
of
the
County
significantly
impacts
community habits and needs by driving
demand for more focused services like
healthcare, transportation, housing,
social
activities,
and
recreation
choices,
while
also
potentially
changing
the
overall
pace
and
character of an area due to a larger
population of residents with different
priorities and lifestyle choices.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
60
Race and Ethnicity
Race and ethnicity play a crucial role in developing this Comprehensive Plan for
several reasons. Reviewing these factors is essential to ensure an accessible
engagement and decision-making process. Additionally, cultural differences,
often rooted in racial and ethnic backgrounds, impact how people use and view
public infrastructure and services as well as the natural landscape.
As seen in Figure 4, 72% of the unincorporated Maricopa County population
identifies as white, which is higher than Maricopa County and the State.
Additionally, 19% of the population identify as having Hispanic/Latino ethnicity,
meaning they are of Spanish descent with roots in Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican,
South or Central American or other counties with Spanish cultural influences.
This percentage is lower than Maricopa County as a whole and the State. By
combining ethnicity and race in one figure rather than two, a more comprehensive
overview of the demographic composition of a population is provided.
Figure 3. Generational Change
Figure 4. Race and Ethnicity
in Unincorporated Maricopa
County
Source: U.S. Census Bureau Decennial Census, 2010 & 2022 American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
Source: U.S. Census Bureau Decennial Census,
2022 American Community Survey 5-Year
Estimates
Chapter 4 • MARICOPA COUNTY OVERVIEW
61
Maricopa County Trends
Historic Population Growth
Maricopa
County
experienced
significant population growth in recent
decades, befitting its status as one
of the fastest-growing regions in the
nation. This growth has shaped the
County’s development, with recent
trends
between
1990
and
2022
highlighting important shifts in both
unincorporated
and
incorporated
areas. In 1990, the unincorporated
areas had 170,246 residents, while
incorporated areas had nearly 1.95
million. Over the following decades,
unincorporated areas saw steady
growth, most notably growing at
a rate of 34.8% between 2000 and
2010 as seen in Table 3. Growth
slowed in recent years, with only a
0.4% increase in the population of
unincorporated areas from 2020 to
2022. This deceleration can likely
be attributed to a brief slowdown in
growth in 2020 in the initial stages of
the COVID-19 Pandemic. Since 2022,
however, Maricopa County returned
to a period of growth. However, recent
rapid increases in the cost of land and
housing have had a tempering effect
on the County’s growth in the near-term
compared to the growth rates seen
in the 21st century. These changing
population patterns emphasize the
needs for strategic planning to meet
the county’s future needs.
Future Population Projections
As shown in Figure 5 the Maricopa
Association
of
Governments
(MAG)
projects
unincorporated
Maricopa County to approach the
400,000-resident threshold by 2030.
MAG estimates that unincorporated
Maricopa
County
will
reach
a
population of 371,800 by 2030, and
it will continue to grow to 478,500 in
2040, 566,600 in 2050 and 645,800 in
2060. This means that by 2040, MAG
is projecting that the population for
unincorporated Maricopa County will
increase by 55%, while the County’s
incorporated population growth rate
is projected to increase by 29% at the
same horizon year.
Figure
6
shows
the
estimated
population
growth
from
MAG’s
population
projections
for
both
unincorporated
and
incorporated
Maricopa County through 2060 in ten-
year increments. The figure shows
MAG does project that incorporated
Maricopa County will have a higher
growth rate over the coming decades
than the unincorporated parts of the
County. This difference in anticipated
growth rates is reasonable given that
rapid growth areas (especially on
the urban fringe of the County) are
often annexed into an incorporated
municipality, often receiving municipal
services.
Thus,
the
associated
population growth in these areas is
counted as part of the incorporated
population and not as part of the
population of the unincorporated
areas of Maricopa County.
Table 3. Population Growth
Year
Incorporated Area
Incorporated Area
Growth Rate
Unincorporated
Area
Unincorporated
Area Growth Rate
1990
1,951,675
-
170,426
-
2000
2,861,266
46.6%
210,883
23.7%
2010
3,532,875
23.5%
284,242
34.8%
2020
4,113,029
16.4%
307,539
8.2%
2022
4,122,238
0.2%
308,633
0.4%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau 1990, 2000, 2010 & 2020 Decennial Census; 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
62
Recent Growth
As
Maricopa
County
plans
for
a projected 55% increase in its
unincorporated population through
2040, it is anticipated that these
current areas of growth as shown in
Map 4 will continue to develop, while
other growth areas will emerge as new
development takes place in currently
undeveloped areas. However, it is also
recognized that while some areas of
the county should be planned for this
new development, other areas should
be preserved or protected or see little
new development.
Between 1990 and 2010, much of the
growth that occurred in unincorporated
Maricopa County was focused in the
eastern and northern parts of the
County. When comparing the change
in
population
in
unincorporated
Maricopa County from 2010 to 2022,
the areas that experienced the highest
population growth have shifted and
are now predominantly located in the
west valley as exhibited in Map 4.
Figure 5. Unincorporated Maricopa County Population
Projection
Figure 6. Population Projection Comparison
Source: Maricopa Association of Governments, 2023 Socioeconomic Projections
Source: Maricopa Association of Governments, 2023 Socioeconomic Projections
Chapter 4 • MARICOPA COUNTY OVERVIEW
63
Table 4 shows that since 2010, the
county has lost over 65 square miles
of unincorporated land to annexation
into incorporated cities and towns
across the valley. This reduction in
land area, coupled with population
growth, has caused the population
density
within
unincorporated
Maricopa County to increase from
an average of 43 persons per square
mile in 2010 to almost 47 persons per
square mile in 2022.
Table 4. Annexations of Unincorporated Maricopa County
and Population Density
Year
Population
Unincorporated
Area (sq. mi.)
Population
Density
(per/sq. mi.)
2010
284,242
6,662.16
43 people/
sq. mi.
(Municipal
Annexations)
-
65.63
-
2022
308,633
6,596.53
47 people/
sq. mi.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau Decennial Census, 2010 & 2022 American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
Population Density and Annexation
Recent Unincorporated Development and Annexation
Although the total unincorporated
land in Maricopa County that has
been annexed since 2010 amounted
to over 42,000 acres, interestingly,
all the subdivisions that were platted
within these annexation acres were
subdivided after annexation (i.e. they
were subdivided once incorporated).
Relatedly, none of the subdivisions
developed in the County over this
same period were annexed.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau Decennial Census, 2010 & 2022 American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
64
55%
The percentage increase of population in unincorporated
Maricopa County by 2040 as projected by the Mariocpa
Association of Governments.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; U.S. Census Bureau,
2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; Michael Baker International Analysis, 2026
Map 4. Growth Trends in Unincorporated Maricopa County
Chapter 4 • MARICOPA COUNTY OVERVIEW
65
5
Land Use
In This Chapter
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Strategies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Goals & Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
The Land Use element maintains that sensible, functional,
balanced, fiscally efficient, and economically viable land use
patterns are important priorities. This element also reinforces
the County’s support for its area plan program and includes
updated land use categories.
Introduction
Land use planning is a foundational
component of the Comprehensive
Plan, shaping the County’s vision for
responsible growth and development.
Through strategic goals and policies,
the Land Use element promotes
development
that
is
both
high-
quality and conscious of the desire to
preserve the natural desert landscape,
reflecting the values of unincorporated
communities. The Land Use element
also
emphasizes
the
importance
of aligning growth with available
infrastructure and public services,
ensuring
that
new
development
enhances
connectivity,
efficiency,
and community vitality. By guiding
orderly expansion and minimizing
land use conflicts, the Comprehensive
Plan reinforces a commitment to
pursue prosperity, stewardship, and
a prosperous future of opportunity
for all residents in unincorporated
Maricopa County.
The
existing
land
utilization
patterns within Maricopa County’s
jurisdiction
are
the
starting
line
for envisioning future growth and
development. By analyzing current
conditions, the County can better
identify unincorporated areas with
the greatest potential for expansion,
redevelopment, or preservation. This
understanding
informs
strategic
planning efforts, ensuring that future
land use decisions are both context-
sensitive and aligned with long-term
community goals.
The
Maricopa
Association
of
Governments collects and manages
existing land utilization data as part of
its socioeconomic modeling efforts.
This data captures how land within
Maricopa County is currently being
utilized. It is distinctly different from
a zoning map which determines how
a specific property can be developed
today, or a future land use plan which
identifies how land may be developed
in the future. The Existing Land
Utilization
database
was
created
by MAG based on an analysis of
Maricopa County Assessor parcels,
aerial photo interpretation, Arizona
State Land data, MAG databases, and
input from MAG member agencies.
This data receives final approval by
the Population Technical Advisory
Committee and then is released for
public use.
Figure 7 shows how existing land
utilizations are distributed within the
unincorporated area of Maricopa
County, and Map 5 illustrates where
these land utilizations are located.
Table 5 provides a more detailed
breakdown of the percentage share
and the total square mileage of each
existing land utilization category in the
County’s area of jurisdiction.
The most prevalent existing land
utilization
within
unincorporated
Maricopa County is Open Space,
which makes up 73.5% of the area,
amounting to over 4,850 square miles.
The significant amount of current
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
68
73.5%
The most prevalent
existing land utilization in
unincorporated Maricopa
County is Open Space,
making up over 4,850
square miles of the area.
Open Space is understandable given
the overall size of the County and the
fact that the Tonto National Forest,
Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range,
BLM land holdings, State Trust Land,
and County regional parks are included
in this total. While some of the Open
Space areas are parks and recreation
areas, it is important to point out that
MAG’s classification of these noted
areas as Open Space refers to their
protected nature from development
owing to their land ownership. MAG’s
Open Space classification should not
be implied to indicate any use of these
noted areas for parkland or recreation
or
prohibiting
landowners
from
exercising their property rights.
Vacant land (land that is undeveloped,
but is not managed or preserved as
open space) is the next most common
land utilization in the County with about
1,198 square miles making up 18.2% of
the total. Both Open Space and Vacant
land account for 91.7% of the existing
land utilizations in unincorporated
Maricopa County. The next three most
prevalent land utilizations in terms
of percentage share are Agriculture,
Single-Family Residential, and Other/
Public Employment totaling together
7.4% of the County’s area of jurisdiction.
When analyzing the County as a
whole, these five categories (open
space, vacant land, agriculture, single-
family residential, and other/public
employment) amount to 99.1% of the
existing land utilizations in Maricopa
County. Most of the Single-Family
Residential land utilizations are located
adjacent to or near incorporated
municipalities or along prominent
highways. Other/Public Employment
land utilizations are often found in
close
proximity
to
Single-Family
Residential utilizations. The Other/
Public Employment category includes,
but is not limited to, large employers,
government buildings, utilities, power
plants, churches/places of worship,
and aggregate land utilizations. Open
Space, Vacant Land, and Agriculture
land utilizations tend to be on the
periphery of the County’s border and
extend inward toward the populated
areas.
Figure 7. Existing Land Utilization Distribution
Source: Maricopa Association of Governments, 2026
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
69
Table 5. Existing Land Utilization in Unincorporated Maricopa County
Existing Land Utilization
Percent of
Total Land
Square Miles
Agriculture
4.17%
292.447
Industrial
0.05%
3.628
Multi-Family Residential
0.06%
4.421
Office
0.01%
0.607
Open Space
73.83%
5,182.142
Other/Public Employment
1.14%
80.29
Retail
0.11%
7.528
Single-Family Residential
2.48%
173.847
Transportation
0.68%
47.494
Vacant
17.47%
1,226.293
TOTAL
100.00%
6,596.527
Source: Maricopa Association of Governments, 2026
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
70
Source: Maricopa Association of Governments, 2026
91.7%
Open Space and Vacant land collectively account for
91.7% of the existing land utilizations in unincorporated
Maricopa County.
Map 5. Existing Land Utilization Map
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
71
Planning Considerations
Area Plan Program
Maricopa County’s Area Plan Program
has proved to be effective at addressing
local concerns in the unincorporated
area. Each Area Plan includes unique
policies, a future land use map, and an
implementation program. Although an
Area Plan addresses local needs, they
still support this Comprehensive Plan
and will continue to be an important
part of the County’s future strategy.
In the past ten years, Maricopa
County updated the Daisy Mountain/
New River Area Plan in 2019 and
the
White
Tank
Grand
Avenue
Area Plan in 2023. These updates
accounted for significant growth,
changes in development patterns,
and adjustments to their individual
plan limits as urban development
continues and adjacent municipalities
continue to expand their jurisdictions.
Map 6 shows the extents of the eight
active Area Plans in Maricopa County
and the following list orders by the
year of their most recent update.
White Tank Grand Avenue Area Plan
(2023)
Daisy Mountain/New River Area
Plan (2019)
Goldfield Area Plan (2007)
Old U.S. Highway 80 Area Plan
(2007)
Rio Verde Foothills Area Plan (2005)
Rainbow Valley Area Plan (2003)
State Route 85 Area Plan (2003)
Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan (2000)
Maricopa County supports updating
the
individual
Area
Plans
when
significant
shifts
are
recognized
including, but not limited to, rapid
land use changes, rising development
pressures,
or
projected
surges
in
population
and
employment.
Updates are also encouraged when
the planning for major infrastructure
projects, such as freeways, transit
corridors, or energy facilities, is
underway.
An
unincorporated
community within the limits of an Area
Plan limits or the Board of Supervisors
may also submit a formal request to
consider commencing an update of an
established Area Plan.
Public participation is central to
planning
practiced
at
Maricopa
County. An Area Plan is only beneficial
and effective with public engagement
and input. Any new or amended Area
Plan(s) must undergo a robust public
engagement process to ensure that the
final plan reflects the value, priorities,
and aspirations of the unincorporated
community that it serves.
Division of Area Plans
The County can support dividing the
established Area Plan into two or more
separate plans if it is determined to be
appropriate. To determine the need for
dividing an Area Plan, the following
conditions must be satisfied:
A
single
established
Area
Plan covers portions of the
unincorporated area that has
distinct sub-regions with differing
land
use
patterns,
growth
trajectories,
or
community
identities;
P u b lic
e n g ag e m e n t
o r
implementation of the individual
plan is challenging due to the size
or complexity of the Area Plan; and,
Stakeholders across the distinct
sub-regions of an established Area
Plan express strong support through
a formal request to the County for
more customized planning.
After satisfying all these conditions,
the Board of Supervisors can give
consideration and final approval with
dividing an individual Area Plan into
two or more separate Area Plans for
future planning.
Consolidation of
Area Plans
Maricopa County also has the ability to
consolidate adjacent Area Plans when
it is determined to be appropriate.
Consolidation
can
be
considered
when the following conditions are met:
Two or more adjacent Area
Plans share similar land use
characteristics, infrastructure
needs, and community goals;
Administrative efficiency and/
or implementation of planning
goals would be improved from
consolidation of the adjacent Area
Plans;
There is clear support through
a formal request to the County
from affected communities and
stakeholders for the consolidation
of the adjacent Area Plans.
After satisfying all of these conditions,
the Board of Supervisors can give
consideration and final approval with
consolidating separate Area Plans into
a single Area Plan.
Decommissioning of
Area Plans
Under the previous Maricopa County
Vision 2030 Comprehensive Plan, there
were 13 Area Plans. In 2022, the Board
of Supervisors, on recommendation
from the Maricopa County Planning &
Development Department staff, voted
to decommission five of these Area
Plans, resulting in the current eight
Area Plans. The five decommissioned
Area Plans included: East Mesa,
Estrella, Laveen, Mobile, and Queen
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
72
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development, 2026
8
This number represents the number of active Area Plans in
Maricopa County.
Map 6. Maricopa County Area Plans
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
73
As defined in ARS § 11-251.12, County Islands are unincorporated areas that
are completely surrounded by one or more incorporated municipalities or Native
American communities. These Islands often form when municipalities expand
and annex surrounding land but leave out certain parcels, either due to property
owner preference or due to a consideration that the parcels will not bring
revenue or long-term value to the city or town. Most of these Islands in Maricopa
County are neighborhood subdivisions, frequently characterized by a less
densely populated, more rural development pattern than the urban or suburban
context of the adjacent municipality. However, some well-known County Islands
in Maricopa County have developed their own sense of community such as Sun
City, Sun City West, Wadell, Laveen, and Sun Lakes among others. County Island
land totals 488,643.32 acres within Maricopa County’s area of jurisdiction.
Living in a County Island comes with both benefits and challenges. Residents
typically enjoy lower taxes as they are not paying for municipal services, and
often face fewer regulations and ordinances. However, due to Maricopa County
not providing municipal services, residents of County Islands must manage their
own utilities and services, such as trash collection, water, wastewater, and fire
protection, which can be more costly and time-consuming. Additionally, they
must rely on the County Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement, and cannot vote in
municipal elections.
The existence of County Islands presents unique challenges for planning growth,
development, and service provision. As cities and towns grow and develop in
Maricopa County, integrating these unincorporated areas can be complex
and contentious. Some County Islands may eventually be annexed into their
adjacent surrounding municipalities, while others may remain independent due
to the preferences of the residents or legal and logistical hurdles. This dynamic
creates a patchwork of governance and service provision requiring careful
collaboration between the County and the various municipal authorities to
coordinate adequate services and support for residents when such services are
provided by jurisdictions. The most evident example of the challenges with this
patchwork governance is the provision of police services in the County Islands
as confusion over jurisdictional responsibility can lead to slower response times
and gaps in law enforcement. Curbing the growth and ultimately reducing this
patchwork governance is the reason that state statute now regulates municipal
annexations to prohibit the creation of new County Islands. Due to this statute and
County policies associated with service provision, Maricopa County reaffirms its
support for eliminating existing County Islands in its area of jurisdiction through
municipal annexation wherever feasible.
Map 7 identifies the County Islands in Maricopa County. While the larger County
Islands are easier to spot in Map 7, smaller County Islands present the greater
number of challenges to manage due to the above-mentioned dynamic of
governance and service provision. Overall, there are 325 County Islands ranging
between 1 – 160 acres in size.
County Islands
Creek. Over 50% of the original acreage within these five Area Plans incorporated
into adjacent municipalities thus falling outside of Maricopa County’s area of
jurisdiction.
The removal of these five Area Plans did result in pockets of unincorporated
County Islands where little and/or infrequent development generally occurs
without specific planning tools for handling development. Those County Islands
now fall within the planning tools of the Comprehensive Plan.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
74
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development, 2026
There are 325 County Islands ranging between
1 – 160 acres in size, making them candidates for
annexation from the County’s viewpoint.
Map 7. County Islands in Maricopa County
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
75
County Islands have the ability to incorporate or undergo municipal annexation
if within a defined MPA and if the majority landowners within the Island desire
to be a part of a municipality. Moreover, ARS § 11-269.07 gives the authority to
the Maricopa County’s Board of Supervisors to vote to require a municipality to
annex a County Island that is comprised of a single parcel up to ten acres in size
if neither the property owner(s) or the municipality submits written objections
within the 60 days from noticing of this proposed action. While this law exists
in state statute, there is very limited evidence of it being actively used due to
a variety of reasons, including political resistance, administrative hurdles, and
general unfamiliarity with the procedure. As such, annexations in Maricopa
County have proceeded under the general annexation statutes rather than this
specific provision. The 276 County Islands ranging between 1 – 160 acres are
candidates for annexation from the viewpoint of Maricopa County due to their
size; however, the sheer volume of individual County Islands within this range of
acreage will likely require considerable coordination with the potential annexing
municipalities.
Urban
Development in
Unincorporated
Areas
Urban development has expanded significantly in Maricopa County, driven
in part by the growing number of master planned communities located in
unincorporated areas. As these areas become more urban in character, the
County opens itself to facing increased demand for infrastructure and public
services. These services are partially subsidized by residents of incorporated
cities and towns, making it essential to carefully evaluate the financial, social,
and public health impacts of urban development in unincorporated areas.
A key challenge that most residents and businesses in unincorporated areas
experience is the lack of access to municipal services such as water and sewer
systems, local police and fire departments, trash collection, and public parks,
all of which are critical to maintaining public health and safety. Cities and towns
generally do not provide these services outside their jurisdiction. Except for law
enforcement provided by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, residents must
rely on private companies or subscription services to meet these needs. In the
absence of an elected municipal government, decisions about service provision
are often made by homeowners’ associations, special districts (like designated
districts for fire protection), or similar organizations.
While many residents in low-density rural areas value the independence and
lifestyle associated with unincorporated living, those residing in more urbanized
unincorporated communities should be fully informed about the limitations
and responsibilities that come with this choice. Understanding the governance
structure, service availability, and financial obligations is essential for making
informed decisions about property investment and long-term residency. Clear
communication and strategic planning will help ensure that urban growth
in unincorporated Maricopa County is efficient, balanced, and aligned with
community expectations.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
76
Affordable Housing
Like many other localities in the country, Maricopa County is grappling with a
growing housing affordability crisis, driven by rising home prices, limited housing
supply, and increasing mortgage rates. This is especially difficult to accept
for long-time residents and first-time homebuyers due to Maricopa County’s
historical reputation for an affordable cost of living. Despite a surge in demand,
new construction has not kept pace, and rising land costs, labor shortages,
supply chain disruptions, investor activity (i.e. institutional investors, corporate
landlords, short-term rentals, etc.), and higher interest rates have further driven
up home prices, leaving many individuals and families finding themselves priced
out of the local market and increasingly skeptical of future homeownership
attainability and housing affordability overall in Maricopa County.
Total Housing Units
The housing stock across unincorporated Maricopa County is fairly homogenous.
Single Family (single-unit) detached housing accounts for over 73% of the
County’s housing portfolio and (single-unit) attached housing accounts for
another 8%, resulting in single-family development comprising over 80% of the
total number of housing units in unincorporated Maricopa County. The next
greatest singular category of housing type is mobile homes accounting for nearly
12%. Multi-family development only accounts for 7% collectively for housing
with two or more units (source: U.S. Census Bureau 2022 American Community
Survey 5-Year Estimates).
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
77
Housing Occupancy
Assessing the housing occupancy rate is one indicator of the health of
unincorporated Maricopa County’s housing market. A low or high vacancy rate
signals a housing shortage or surplus, indicating a possible imbalance between
supply and demand. Currently, the national average for housing vacancy is
slightly over 11%, meanwhile, vacant units accounted for 13% in unincorporated
Maricopa County. The 13% vacancy rate is higher than the 7-8% vacancy rate
that is commonly suggested as a long-term “natural” vacancy rate. However, this
does not necessarily mean that there is a larger supply of available housing units
since the occupancy rate does not account for vacancies due to renovation,
unsold/unleased new construction, or the part-time use of the unit as a vacation
rental, to name a few. Of the 87% of occupied housing units, just over 84% are
owner occupied, while the last 16% of housing stock is renter occupied (source:
U.S. Census Bureau 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates).
Median Household Income and Median
Home Values
Contributing to the decrease in regional housing affordability is the fact that
Household income has not kept pace with the cost of housing. Maricopa
County’s median household income is $80,675, which is higher when compared
to the State median income of $72,581. Meanwhile, the median home value
in Maricopa County is $371,000, higher than the State median home value at
$321,400. Both of these facts are shown in Figure 8.
This condition establishes a price-to-income ratio of 4.6. Financial experts
suggest buyers spend no more than 2.6 times their annual income on a
home. However, the national house-price-to-income ratio has been higher
than the recommended 2.6 every year since 1985. This reality suggests that
first time homebuyers will need to overcome a much higher hurdle to achieve
homeownership in the future.
Cost-Burdened Households
Cost-burdened households are those that are paying 30% or more of their income
on housing costs. Severely cost-burden households are paying 50% or more
of their household income on housing costs, whether mortgage or rent. When
households (especially lower income households) spend more on housing costs
this causes reduced financial flexibility on other essentials like food, healthcare,
and transportation, which can lead to financial instability and reduced quality of
life. Figure 9 shows that across Maricopa County (including unincorporated and
incorporated areas), it is reported that 499,668 households are cost-burdened,
which reflects 30% of all households, while 14% of all households are spending
half or more of their income on housing expenses.
Figure 8. Median Household
Income and Home Value in
Maricopa County
Median Household Income
MARICOPA COUNTY
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 American
Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Median Home Value
MARICOPA COUNTY
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 American
Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Figure 9. Percentage of Maricopa
County Cost-Burdened Households
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
78
Housing Age
Of the 148,782 total housing units
within
unincorporated
Maricopa
County, 44% were built between 1990-
2009, which encapsulates the housing
boom and population growth that the
Greater Phoenix Region experienced
from the late 1990s to the 2007-2009
Recession. This housing boom period
notably saw the development of the
Anthem community. Housing units
built in the 1970s account for 23% of the
housing stock within unincorporated
Maricopa County, which aligns with
the development of Sun City West.
The total housing units constructed by
decade in unincorporated Maricopa
County are displayed in Figure 10.
What is also evident from the data is
the complete bottoming out of the
rate of new housing construction in
Maricopa County compared to the five
decades prior to 2010. In fact, from
2000 to 2010, there were 389,400
units built in Maricopa County overall.
In contrast, from 2011 to 2023, there
were only 290,800 units built in
Maricopa County, which reflects a 25%
decrease in units built over the last 12
years (source: Maricopa Association
of Governments).
While regional housing construction is
showing signs of increasing in recent
years, the lost decade of new housing
stock of the 2010s may be one of the
drivers of the County’s current housing
affordability issue. However, although
housing unit completions have steadily
increased across Maricopa County
over the last number of years, housing
affordability
and
homeownership
still remains unattainable for many in
Maricopa County, which underscores
the need to address the spectrum of
housing cost factors such as inflated
land values, increased investor activity,
higher labor costs, and fluctuating
interest rates.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Figure 10. Unincorporated Maricopa County Housing Units
Construction by Decade
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
79
Military Compatibility
While not in the unincorporated area of Maricopa County, Luke Air Force Base
(AFB), its ancillary military facilities at Luke AFB Auxiliary Airfield 1, and Gila Bend
Air Force Auxiliary Field play an important role in determining the suitability of
land uses in the vicinities of its ancillary military facilities. While there is concern
about noise and potential aircraft accidents near these installations, both the
State of Arizona and Maricopa County recognize the important economic
impacts of these bases and their need for protection of their operations. For
areas located within the High Noise Contours, ranging from 65 to 85 decibels,
or within the Accident Potential Zones (APZ) surrounding designated sites, ARS
§ 28-8481 imposes specific planning requirements. Local governments must
adopt land use plans and zoning ordinances that ensure future development is
compatible and consistent with the noise levels or accident risks associated with
military facility operations. Such risks may pose adverse effects on public health
and safety. These state statutory requirements apply to Maricopa County’s land
use planning since there are portions of the County’s area of jurisdiction that
are within the High Noise Contours and the APZs of Luke Air Force Base and
its ancillary military facilities. The High Noise and Accident Potential Zones
(HNAPZ) of the three military facilities discussed here are shown in Map 8.
Furthermore, ARS § 28-8481 identifies specific uses that are and are not
considered consistent and compatible with the high noise or accident potential
zones, although other uses may be permitted upon mutual determination of
consistency and compatibility by Luke Air Force Base and the local jurisdiction.
The Comprehensive Plan designates areas within the High Noise or Accident
Potential Zones as “Military Compatible,” and the compatible zoning requirements
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
80
High Noise Contours near Luke Air Force Base range from
65-85 decibels.
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development, 2026
Map 8. Military Bases and Decibel Contour Lines
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
81
for these areas are identified in the
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance.
State statute also identifies a larger
risk area around Luke Air Force Base
and Auxiliary Airfield #1 and defines
this area as the Territory in the Vicinity
of a Military Airport. This area extends
ten miles to the north, south and west,
and four miles to the east parallel from
the center of the main runway at Luke
Air Force Base and Auxiliary Airfield
#1. While land use restrictions do
not apply in this defined area, noise
reduction techniques are required
in the construction of new habitable
buildings.
The Comprehensive Plan is also
required to identify the influence
area of a military installation or range
or Arizona national guard site. ARS
11-818.01 prescribes the meaning
of “influence area” as a two-mile
buffer and the meaning of “military
installation
or
range
or
Arizona
national guard site” as any site that
is listed in ARS 11-818.01.(G)(2). In
Maricopa County, there are three such
sites that are listed in state statute
as a military installation or range or
Arizona national guard site. They are:
Barry M. Goldwater Range
Buckeye Training Site
Papago Park Military Reservation
As shown in Map 9, these sites have
two-mile influence areas that affect
some portions of unincorporated
Maricopa
County.
State
statute
requires that the County plan land
uses that are compatible with the
operations of the installation, range, or
site of the unincorporated lands that
are within these identified influence
areas.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
82
2 miles
The required buffer defining a military installation’s
“influence area” under ARS 11-818.01.
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development, 2026
Map 9. Military Installation, Range, or Arizona National Guard Site
Influence Areas
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
83
Aggregate Resources
Aggregate resources in Maricopa County are vital for the region’s construction
and infrastructure development. These resources, which include sand, gravel, and
crushed stone, are primarily extracted from riverbeds and floodplains of major
rivers of the County including the Salt, Gila, Verde, Agua Fria, and Hassayampa
Rivers as shown in Map 10. The Arizona Geological Survey maintains data
and maps of the currently known extraction and mining points for aggregate
deposits to aid in local and County planning, ensuring that these essential
materials are conserved and managed effectively. The proximity of aggregate
resources to urban areas helps reduce transportation costs and environmental
impacts, making local sourcing a viable choice. As growth and development
continues in Maricopa County, the demand for these materials remains high,
underscoring the importance of strategic resource management to support
ongoing development while minimizing ecological disruption. While aggregate
mining is an important and necessary part of the economy the noise, light, dust
and traffic from aggregate mines can affect the quality of life of nearby residents.
To protect aggregate mining and safeguard residents’ quality of life Maricopa
County supports open space buffers, land use transitions, and other techniques
that appropriately separate aggregate mining and residential land uses.
Maricopa County also views the importance of post-operation planning for
aggregate mining site, which the County Flood Control District coordinates
and assists in such planning. The County supports the restoration of land to a
beneficial condition on post-aggregates mining reclamation sites. The extent
of such restoration may include future development of either constructed uses
or natural habitats and landscapes or an integration of both considering site
conditions and the compatibility of nearby land uses.
In the Arizona Geological Survey, soil types that are conducive to being sources
of aggregates as well as the presence of riverbeds and floodplains do exist
within Maricopa County’s area of jurisdiction. Maricopa County will consider the
importance of preserving these areas of potential sources aggregate materials
as future development occurs.
The Maricopa County Aggregate Mining Operations Zoning District #1 (also
shown in Map 10) is a designated area established to manage and regulate
aggregate mining activities within a specific region. This district encompasses
a three-mile radius around the main channel of the Agua Fria River, between
the CAP Canal and Grand Avenue. The purpose of this district is to balance the
needs of the mining industry with the concerns of local residents, ensuring that
mining operations are conducted responsibly and with minimal impact on the
surrounding community.
The district is overseen by the Aggregate Mining Operations Zoning District #1
Recommendation Committee, which includes representatives from both the
mining industry and local residents. This committee acts as a mediator to resolve
conflicts, adopts administrative regulations, and provides recommendations to
the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. By fostering collaboration between
stakeholders, the committee aims to promote best mining practices while
protecting the quality of life for residents in the area.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
84
The Maricopa County Aggregate Mining Operations Zoning
District #1 is a designated area established to manage and
regulate aggregate mining activities within a specific region.
Source: Arizona Geological Survey, 2024
Map 10. Aggregates in Maricopa County Map
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
85
Fire Protection
Maricopa County is served by 22 fire districts that are displayed in Map 11. All
of the fire districts in unincorporated Maricopa County are crucial in maintaining
safety and responding to emergencies in areas not covered by municipal fire
departments. Each fire district is independent, with its own administration,
funding, and resources tailored to meet the specific needs of its community.
They work closely with other emergency services and local governments to
coordinate efforts during large-scale emergencies and disasters. They work
closely with other local agencies to provide coordinated and efficient services.
The presence of these fire districts helps maintain a high level of safety and
preparedness across Maricopa County. Some of the fire districts with the highest
number of residents within their borders include:
Buckeye Valley Fire District: Covers the Buckeye Valley area and provides
comprehensive fire and emergency medical services.
North County Fire & Medical District: Serves the northern parts of the County.
This district focuses on both fire suppression and medical emergencies.
South County Fire & Medical District: Serves the southern regions of the
County, ensuring residents receive timely fire and medical response.
Since 2023, these three fire districts have operated under the Arizona Fire &
Medical Authority (AFMA). The AFMA is an intergovernmental agreement where
the three districts retain local control over individual budgets and services along
with separate tax rates, while the personnel, equipment, facilities, and daily
operations of the combined districts are governed by a Joint Powers Authority
(JPA) Governing Board. This operating model reduces overhead costs and
improves service levels without dissolving the districts.
For unincorporated areas outside of the fire districts and select incorporated
areas, Rural Metro Fire is a key provider of fire protection and emergency
medical services. Operating under a subscription-based model, the company
offer comprehensive services including fire prevention, fire suppression, and
emergency medical response. Since its founding, Rural Metro Fire has a long-
standing presence in the County, tailoring their services to meet the unique needs
of each area they serve. Their commitment to safety and readiness ensures
that residents and businesses in unincorporated regions receive reliable and
professional emergency services without relying on public funding.
Additionally, the Maricopa County Emergency Management team coordinates
efforts to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters and other
emergencies. These services work together with the various fire districts to
maintain safety and security for residents in unincorporated areas.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
86
Source:
Source: Maricopa County Office of Enterprise Technology, 2024
22 districts
Maricopa County is served by 22 fire districts, each
responsible for providing essential services such as
fire suppression, emergency medical response, and fire
prevention education to specific areas.
Map 11. Fire Districts in Maricopa County
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
87
Maricopa
County Sheriff’s
Office
Each district is managed by a District Commander and supported by a team
of deputies, detectives, and administrative staff. This structure allows the
MCSO to address the unique needs of each area, ensuring comprehensive
law enforcement coverage throughout Maricopa County.
The MCSO also offers the Volunteer Posse program. Posse volunteers
work with deputies and civilian staff to help improve law enforcement and
enhance public safety, providing an invaluable service to the community.
Posse volunteer personnel are trained in a variety of essential support
functions, such as Search and Rescue, Crime Scene, Patrol. Disaster Relief,
and Emergency Response.
The MCSO maintains a comprehensive response system across its
jurisdictions. In data collected for 2022, the MCSO average response times
reported by the different levels of priority are:
Priority 1 calls: Average 8.2 minutes
Priority 2 calls: Average 12.5 minutes
Priority 3 calls: Average 18.7 minutes
Priority 1 and 2 calls are both deemed emergency calls. Priority 1 is a crime
involving an immediate threat to life, and Priority 2 is a crime involving an
immediate and substantial risk of major property loss or damage.
Map 12 shows the locations of the Maricopa County Sheriff Office District
Substations and the Lake Patrol and Anthem Substations.
In unincorporated Maricopa County, police services are primarily managed by
the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). It is responsible in responding
to emergencies, and ensuring public safety in the unincorporated areas of the
County. To manage law enforcement services effectivel, the MCSO divides its
jurisdiction into five districts plus a Lake Patrol district unit as summarized
below:
1. District 1 covers the eastern part of the
County, including the County Islands
in the east valley municipalities. It is
known for its diverse population and
urban environment.
2. District 2 encompasses Luke Air Force
Base, Palo Verde Nuclear Generating
Station,
Phoenix
International
Raceway, the University of Phoenix
Stadium, and a large portion of the
Barry M. Goldwater Gunnery Range.
This district covers downtown Phoenix,
including the Superior Courts, Sheriff’s
Headquarters, and Chase Field. County
recreational parks in the district include
White Tank Mountains Regional Park,
Estrella Park, and Buckeye Hills.
3. District 3 comprises both rural farms
and urban communities, including two
large senior retirement communities,
Sun City and Sun City West, and is the
district with the most calls for service.
4. District 4 includes the master-planned
community of Anthem and services
two contract municipalities: Carefree
and Cave Creek. Services are also
provided to Clearwater Hills.
5. District 7 is responsible for law
enforcement
services
to
the
unincorporated areas of Scottsdale,
Rio Verde, Tonto Verde, Trilogy at
Verde River and Goldfield Ranch and
provides contractual law enforcement
services to Fountain Hills.
6. Lake Patrol (District 5) covers
the
wilderness
area
and
waterways of the Tonto National
Forest within Maricopa County
as well as Lake Pleasant and
Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Additionally,
the
Lake
Patrol
is responsible for Search and
Rescue Missions, Dive Recovery,
Mounted Patrol, Concentrated
Traffic
Enforcement,
Flood
Control
District
Enforcement,
Sheriff’s Medic Program, Mobile
Field Force, and responding to
any emergencies involving the
Palo Verde Nuclear Generating
Station. Patrols use off-highway
vehicles, watercraft, and horses
in addition to traditional vehicle
modes.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
88
Source:
Map 12. Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office District
Source: Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, 2024
Five Districts
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office divides its jurisdiction
into five districts plus a Lake Patrol unit to effectively
manage law enforcement services.
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
89
Agricultural and Rural Lands
The continued conversion of agricultural and rural lands in Maricopa County
to urban and suburban development has significant implications for the local
food system. As farmland is subdivided into housing, commercial centers, and
other infrastructure, the acreage available for crop cultivation and livestock
production steadily declines. This loss not only reduces the capacity for local
food production but also disrupts long-standing agricultural operations that
contribute to the County’s economy and agricultural heritage. The fragmentation
of rural landscapes also make farming less viable due to increased land costs,
reduced access/efficiency to water, and conflicts with non-agricultural land
uses. Moreover, the loss of agricultural land may impact wildlife populations,
specifically ungulates and migratory bird species which utilize agricultural fields
for forage and cover.
The decline in local agricultural land affects food security by increasing
dependence on imported food. Locally grown produce and livestock offer fresher
options, lower transportation costs and emissions, and stronger connections
between consumers and producers. As rural lands disappear, opportunities for
community-supported agriculture, farmers markets, and farm-to-table initiatives
also diminish. Preserving agricultural land and integrating food production into
long-range land use planning can serve to maintain a regionally rooted food
system in the face of rapid urbanization as well as seeking to retain historical
farmland as rural.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
90
Scenic Corridors
By integrating land use planning with conservation goals, Maricopa County supports the desire
of residents and visitors to enjoy unobstructed views of mountain ranges, saguaro-studded
hillsides, and expansive desert vistas while traveling through the region. Scenic corridors in
Maricopa County utilize development overlays or designations on specified routes that highlight
the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique desert landscapes. These corridors
are part of the County’s long-range planning efforts, which aims to preserve and enhance the
visual character of key travel routes. While scenic corridors are not a transportation planning
tool, they are a long-range planning instrument of the Planning & Development Department.
Scenic corridors often align with major roadways that traverse areas of significant topographic
or environmental interest. These corridors are managed with specific design guidelines to
protect viewsheds, limit intrusive development, and maintain the aesthetic integrity of the
Sonoran Desert. The scenic corridors in Maricopa County include:
Carefree Highway Scenic Corridor
Castle Hot Springs Scenic Corridor
El Rio Scenic Corridor (as represented by the El Rio Design Guidelines and Planning Standards)
I-17 Scenic Corridor
McMicken Scenic Corridor
New River Road & 7th Street
Olive Avenue Scenic Corridor
State Route 74 Scenic Corridor (Highway 74 Scenic Corridor)
Wickenburg Scenic Highway Corridor
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
91
All nine of these designated scenic
corridors in Maricopa County are
shown in Map 13. The State Route 74
Scenic Corridor and the Wickenburg
Scenic Corridor are also regulatory
corridors in that they are overlay zoning
districts in the Maricopa County
Zoning Ordinance. These two zoning
overlays applied to their respective
scenic corridors establish criteria
that encourage orderly and minimal
impacting development along these
routes to preserve the surrounding
natural
and
cultural
landscapes
and scenic qualities. The other four
scenic corridors are non-regulatory,
however, there are guidelines in place
for them to manage and protect the
scenic nature of the corridor from
overdevelopment. Any new scenic
corridors and associated guidelines
that may be implemented in the future
are limited from outright prohibiting
certain land uses due to ARS §12-1131
through §12-1138 and the intent to
avoid any claims of diminution in value
of property as a result of a new land
use regulation.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
92
Map 13. Scenic Corridors
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development, 2026
9 Scenic Corridors
The number of designated scenic corridors in Maricopa
County.
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
93
Inter-Jurisdiction Coordination
Maricopa County recognizes the importance of coordinating land use planning
efforts across jurisdictions to promote consistency and long-term efficiency.
The previous Comprehensive Plan emphasized the need to align land uses in
unincorporated areas with those in adjacent municipalities, particularly within
County Islands and municipal planning areas. This coordination has helped
reduce land use conflicts, improve service delivery, and support cohesive
community development.
Collaboration with federal and state agencies has also been a longstanding
priority and has yielded positive outcomes. Maricopa County has actively
engaged these agencies in its planning processes, and in turn, has been invited to
participate in planning efforts for federally and state-managed lands. As growth
pressures intensify and land use decisions become more complex, continued
coordination among federal, state, and local entities is essential. Maricopa
County remains committed to working collaboratively to ensure land use
compatibility, protect shared resources, and advance regional planning goals.
In addition, the County will continue to monitor and participate in discussions
regarding the potential disposition or transfer of federal lands, as such actions
can significantly influence future development patterns and land use priorities.
Strategies
Coordinated land
use planning across
jurisdictions reduces
conflicts and supports
cohesive community
development.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
94
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development, 2026
Map 14. The Areas of Municipal Influence and Rural Influence in
Maricopa County
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
95
Framework 2040 introduces a new
strategic Framework for managing
both urban and rural development
across the County’s vast and varied
landscape. It is titled the Municipal-
Rural Influence Framework, and will
function as the starting reference
regarding
development
decisions.
At the core of this Framework is the
identification of two distinct divisions
of Maricopa County:
The Area of Municipal Influence
The Area of Rural Influence
The Area of Municipal Influence
encompasses all of Maricopa County’s
unincorporated land that falls within
the current limits of a Municipal
Planning Area, within a County Island,
or within an Improvement Association.
The Area of Rural Influence is
comprised of Maricopa County’s
unincorporated land that is not within
the Area of Municipal Influence. Map
14 shows the extents of the Area of
Municipal Influence and the Area of
Rural Influence in Maricopa County.
These two influence areas serve as
organization tools for classifying
land and how it can be developed
and
potentially
annexed.
These
classifications are not administrative
boundaries.
Rather,
they
serve
as guides in determining where
urban or rural development is most
appropriate in Maricopa County’s area
of jurisdiction. Figure 11 on pages 98-
99 is a graphical representation of the
Municipal-Rural Influence Framework.
The Framework is described in full
detail in the subsequent sections.
Municipal-Rural Influence Framework
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
96
The Area of Municipal Influence
The Area of Municipal Influence is the initial point for determining where urban development is
appropriate in unincorporated Maricopa County. Any unincorporated area within the Area of Municipal
Influence that has an urban land use designation (see Municipal-Rural Influence Framework Step 2
on page 98) from either the Comprehensive Plan or an Area Plan is part of the County’s Urban Growth
Area. Relatedly, any unincorporated land within the Area of Municipal Influence that has a rural land
use designation (which is only either the Single Family - Rural or Rural Retail land uses) from either
the Comprehensive Plan or an Area Plan can be considered part of the County’s Urban Growth Area
provided the unincorporated land satisfies all of the following criteria:
The applicable municipal general plan has designated the parcel(s) for urban uses;
The parcel(s) meets the applicable Urban Solutions for Urban Development strategy requirements;
and
The parcel(s) have an assurance of annexation from the applicable municipality.
Any unincorporated area with a rural land use designation that can be categorized in the Urban Growth
Area is eligible to explore a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to an urban land use designation.
Unincorporated areas with a rural land use designation within the Area of Municipal Influence that
cannot be categorized in the Urban Growth Area fall into the Rural Service Area. The Rural Service
Area accommodates rural land uses and allows for rural industrial or certain commercial land uses
that would both not be considered part of the County’s Urban Growth Area.
Industrial activities permitted in the Rural Service Area are rural in nature and may include electric
generating and distribution facilities, vehicle proving grounds and test facilities, mining and extraction
operations, and agriculturally-oriented businesses. These uses are well suited to rural areas due to
their need for large parcels of land and limited reliance on public infrastructure. Their inclusion in the
Framework reflects a thoughtful approach to economic development that balances land capacity
with the preservation of rural community values.
Commercial development in the Rural Service Area is subject to more stringent review but may be
allowed without a formal amendment to the Comprehensive Plan if the site is under 40 acres and
satisfies alternative criteria to the Urban Solutions for Urban Development strategy. This flexibility
allows small-scale commercial sites that steward the character of the rural landscape.
The Area of Rural Influence
The Area of Rural Influence contains all the unincorporated land that is outside of a Municipal Planning
Area, a County Island, or an Improvement Association. All of this unincorporated land, if outside of
an Area Plan, is designated for rural land uses (which are only the Single Family - Rural or Rural Retail
land uses) in the Comprehensive Plan and is categorized into the Rural Service Area. Within an Area
Plan, a parcel with an urban land use is categorized into the Urban Growth Area, and a parcel with a
rural land use is categorized into the Rural Service Area. As discussed above, exceptions to allow for
rural industrial or certain commercial land uses apply in the Rural Service Area.
Assurance of Annexation
Assurance of annexation is an essential step for guiding land use changes from rural to urban in
Maricopa County. The Municipal-Rural Influence Framework necessitates obtaining an assurance
of annexation from the appropriate municipality to determine the likelihood of municipal services
before urban development occurs. This works to ensure that a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
aligns with municipal planning efforts and prevents the indefinite formation of unsupported County
Islands and leapfrog development. An assurance of annexation is either an executed pre-annexation
agreement or an executed municipal services agreement. Effective annexation assurance planning
requires close coordination between the County and municipalities and depends on the availability
of infrastructure and services needed to support urban development. For its part, development will
need to coordinate with municipalities and seek support through an assurance of annexation.
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
97
Figure 11. Municipal-Rural Influence Framework
Identify if subject
parcel is located
in the “Area of
Municipal Influence” or the
“Area of Rural Influence.”
STEP 1
Encompasses all of Maricopa County’s
unincorporated areas that fall within the current
limits of a Municipal Planning Area, within
a County Island, or within an Improvement
Association.
Area of Municipal Influence
Encompasses all of Maricopa County’s
unincorporated areas that are not a part of the
“Area of Municipal Influence.”
Area of Rural Influence
Utilize the current
Maricopa County
Land Use Plan/
Area Plans to determine if the
subject parcel has an “Urban
Land Use” or “Rural Land Use”
designation.
STEP 2
Refers to the designation of unincorporated
land in Maricopa County that does not have
a rural land use designation. All land use
designations
available
in
unincorporated
Maricopa County besides Single Family - Rural
and Rural Retail would be urban land uses. A
previously approved Development Master Plan
outside of an Area Plan may be determined
to be an urban land use by the Planning &
Development Department Director.
Urban Land Use
Refers to the designation of uninorporated
land in Maricopa County that has a rural land
use designation, which includes either Single
Family - Rural or Rural Retail.
Rural Land Use
Determine if the
subject parcel is in
an “Urban Growth
Area” or “Rural Service Area.”
STEP 3
Any unincorporated land falling into the Urban
Growth Area has the ability to be re-designated
through the Comprehensive Plan Amendment
process to an appropriate land use (urban
or rural relative to surrounding context and
infrastructure).
Within the “Area of Municipal Influence”, a
subject parcel with a rural land use designation
can be determined to be a part of the Urban
Growth Area if it is designated as an urban
land use in the Municipal Planning Area of the
applicable municipal general plan, satisifies
the Urban Solutions for Urban Development
strategy requirements, and has an assurance
of annexation.
Outside of the “Area of Municipal Influence,”
a subject parcel with an urban land use
designation in an Area Plan is determined to be
a part of the Urban Growth Area.
Urban Growth Area
Any unincorporated land falling in the Rural
Service Area accommodates rural land use
designations.
Rural industrial land uses that require large
amounts of land, but not urban services and
infrastructure, are acceptable in the Rural
Service Area. These uses could include
electric generating and distribution facilities,
proving grounds and test facilities, mining and
extraction operations, agriculturally-oriented
businesses, and other rural-type industrial
uses on a case-by-case basis.
Certain commercial land uses that do not
require a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
and can prove alternative satisfactions to
the Urban Solutions for Urban Development
strategy requirements are acceptable in the
Rural Service Area.
Rural Service Area
Ability
to
now
evaluate
if
an
urban land use or
rural land use is appropriate
for the subject parcel.
STEP 4
The evaluation process will consider consistency with the goals and policies of the Comprehensive
Plan as well as meeting the applicable Urban Solutions for Urban Development (USUD) strategy
requirements and whether the land in question has an assurance of annexation with the applicable
municipality to prevent the formation of a new County Island.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
98
Area of
Municipal
Influence
Area of
Rural
Influence
Municipal Planning Area
County Island
Improvement Association
Urban
LAND USE
Urban
GROWTH
AREA
Rural
LAND USE
Rural
LAND USE
Rural
SERVICE
AREA
Rural
SERVICE
AREA
MPA URBAN
DESIGNATION
USUD | ANNEX
URBAN LAND USE
IN AREA PLAN
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
99
The Urban Solutions for Urban Development (USUD) strategy is a policy
approach used to evaluate the availability and accessibility of infrastructure
and services when considering urban development. This strategy helps inform
decisions related to a Comprehensive Plan Amendment or Zoning District
Change by identifying whether infrastructure and services can support proposed
development over time.
The USUD strategy is advisory and is not a regulatory requirement. It does not
establish conditions of approval or require that infrastructure or public facilities
be constructed or in place prior to development approval.
The following factors may be considered as part of the evaluation of a
Comprehensive Plan Amendment or a Zoning District Change for urban
development. These considerations are used to inform staff analysis and
decision-making. Not all factors will apply in every case, and they are not
intended to function as minimum thresholds or approval criteria. These factors
are not applied uniformly and will vary based on the type, scale, and location of
the proposed development.
Urban Solutions
for Urban
Development
Strategy
1
The availability of potable water
service, including confirmation
of infrastructure, a Certificate of
Convenience and Necessity, and
verification by the service provider of
the ability to adequately serve new
residents and businesses
2
The availability and capacity
of
sewer
service,
including
verification by the service provider
3
The capacity of the roadway
network
to
accommodate
expected traffic increases
4
The presence of regional flood
control
infrastructure,
where
necessary
5
The availability of dry utilities
(electric, telephone, natural gas),
as applicable
6
The
availability
of
law
enforcement and fire service
7
Access to hospital or emergency
medical
facilities,
where
applicable
8
The availability and proximity
of elementary, middle and high
school capacity, as appropriate
9
The availability and proximity of
adequate parks, recreation, and
community facilities
10
The availability and proximity
of
libraries
and
other
community facilities, as applicable
11
The availability and proximity
of alternative transportation
facilities, as applicable
12
The availability of other urban
services and infrastructure, as
applicable and based on the specific
development proposal
Not all urban development requires these services or infrastructure, so Table 6
identifies which services and infrastructure should be confirmed to exist or be
readily available prior to a Comprehensive Plan Amendment or a Zoning District
Change (note: the numbers in Table 6 correspond to the paragraph numbers
listed above). However, not all of these listed urban services and infrastructure
are expected to be present or resolved at the time of application.
Considering the listed urban services and infrastructure in Table 6 achieves
several important objectives:
Protecting taxpayers as well as public health, safety, and general welfare;
Identifying which unincorporated areas are able to support urban development;
Implementing an important county policy: have orderly, timely and efficient
urban development; and
Helping the county determine when and where urban development is
appropriate.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
100
The USUD strategy is used to inform staff recommendations and Board of Supervisors’ decisions by identifying
infrastructure conditions, service availability, and long-term planning considerations. It does not operate as a checklist or
pass-fail test for approval. Final decisions are based on the full range of adopted goals, policies, and case-specific factors.
Note: This table illustrates typical service relationships by land use type. It is not a set of requirements and is not used as a checklist for development
approval.
Coordinated Pattern of Development
Achieving
a
coordinated
pattern
of
development
is
essential
to
supporting Maricopa County’s long-
term strategic goals. Coordinated
development
can
help
produce
balanced and economically efficient
land use patterns that include a
well-integrated mix of residential,
retail, office, industrial, employment
centers, open space, and community
amenities. This approach advances
several
key
objectives,
including
the implementation of the County’s
Strategic
Priorities,
enhancement
of overall quality of life, expansion
of the economic and tax base,
maintenance of fiscal stability, and
reduction of reliance on residential
development as the primary source
of growth. In addition, balanced land
use contributes to public health by
increasing access to recreational
opportunities, shortening travel times,
and allowing residents more personal
time.
This planning approach is especially
important in unincorporated areas,
where
long
distances
between
homes, workplaces, services, and
recreational spaces are common.
Land
use
imbalances
in
these
areas can result in increased traffic
congestion,
longer
commutes,
and limited access to essential
services. Achieving balance in these
settings is often challenging due to
differing community expectations,
infrastructure constraints, and the
evolving nature of growth at the edge
of urban development. As expansion
continues, new challenges arise in
areas where urban and rural lifestyles
converge. These urban and rural
interface zones require thoughtful
planning and practical solutions to
maintain compatibility and livability.
Service / Infrastructure
Urban
Residential
Urban
Commercial
Urban
Industrial
1 Water
YES
YES
YES
2 Sewer
YES
YES
YES
3 Roads
YES
YES
YES
4 Flood Control
YES
YES
YES
5 Dry Utilities
As Applicable
As Applicable
As Applicable
6 Police & Fire
YES
YES
YES
7 Medical
YES
NO
NO
8 Schools
YES
NO
NO
9 Parks & Recreation
YES
NO
NO
10 Libraries
As Applicable
NO
NO
11 Alternative Transportation
As Applicable
As Applicable
As Applicable
12 Other Services
As Applicable
As Applicable
As Applicable
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development Department
Table 6. Urban Service and Infrastructure Considerations by Land Use Type
The numbers in Table 6 correspond to the paragraph numbers listed on page 100.
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
101
Key strategies for these transitional
areas include consistent decisions
about land use compatibility and
addressing the diverse expectations
of rural and urban residents. This
involves managing the externalities
of agricultural activities, including
impacts from large animal livestock,
on nearby suburban neighborhoods,
while also preserving the ability of
rural residents to continue traditional
practices. It is important to determine
appropriate land use densities and
intensities and to recognize the
range of lifestyle preferences among
residents. Some individuals prefer
a rural environment with large lots
and minimal services, others seek
a suburban setting with low-density
development and access to amenities,
and still others desire an urban
lifestyle with higher density and full
access to services and opportunities.
Establishing realistic expectations for
infrastructure and service delivery in
remote areas is essential. The County
must also consider whether and
when it is appropriate for residents
of cities and towns to contribute to
the cost of enhanced services in
unincorporated communities, such as
law enforcement, animal control, and
street maintenance. These decisions
will play a critical role in shaping the
future of growth and governance
across Maricopa County.
Maricopa County Land Use Plan
In order to work toward accomplishing a coordinated pattern of development in the unincorporated
area, Maricopa County uses a land use plan to guide how the coordinated pattern should develop based
on the availability of current infrastructure, the suitability for future infrastructure, the potential for
future annexation, feedback from the unincorporated residents in the Area Plans, and environmental
considerations. Maricopa County recognizes 35 different land use designations as listed and described
in Table 7. The designations can be grouped together under the following 7 broader categories:
Residential – Single Family
Residential - Multiple Family
Residential - Other
Retail Commercial
Employment
Recreation
Other
The 35 land use designations are primarily used in the individual land use plans of the 8 Area Plans. The
White Tank Grand Avenue Area Plan is the only one of the Area Plans that pulls its land uses solely from
the Land Use Designations shown in Table 7. The other Area Plans utilize land uses that are similar to
those found in the Land Use Designations Table in this Plan, but they do differ in name and description.
In the effort of standardization across the County going forward, each Area Plan Update or new Area
Plan must utilize the land use designations in the Comprehensive Plan in their respective land use
plans. The rest of the unincorporated County outside of the eight Area Plans is designated as Rural
Development Area. Map 15 shows the the organization of Maricopa County’s land use plan by Area
Plans as well as the Rural Development Area and Area of Municipal Influence.
Rural Development Area
The Rural Development Area is the portions of the unincorporated County outside of an Area Plan.
This designation encompasses the two rural land uses: Single Family - Rural and Rural Retail. Single
Family – Rural is a residential land use with a density of one dwelling unit per acre or less and Rural
Retail is a commercial land use that has retail uses such as commercial plant nurseries, public riding/
boarding stables, feed stores, kennels, and large animal medical clinics. Open Space and Parks land
use designations intended for public use or benefit are also accommodated with the Rural Developmenr
Area where appropriate. There are unincorporated areas with the Rural Development Area designation
that fall within the Area of Municipal Influence.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
102
Source: Maricopa County Planning & Development, 2026
Land Use Plan Map Notes
1. Unincorporated areas outside of County Area Plans are designated Rural Development Area and accommodate rural land uses and rural zoning (with
allowances for rural industrial land uses and certain commercial land uses) unless considered as part of the Urban Growth Area within the Municipal-Rural
Influence Framework.
2. Portions of an Area Plan that are outside of the Area of Municipal Influence function under their own unique and respective Area Plan. These portions can
be considered for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment within the Municipal-Rural Influence Framework.
3. All land designated under a previously approved Comprehensive Plan Amendment shall remain designated in accordance with the amendment unless or
until the amendment has been rescinded through an action by the Board of Supervisors.
4. In accordance with ARS § 11-804(E), any Arizona State Land Department Trust Land designated as open space, recreation, conservation, or agriculture
shall have a default minimum development density of 1 dwelling unit/acre. Any higher density/intensity designation shall require a Comprehensive Plan
Amendment.
Map 15. Maricopa County Land Use Plan
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
103
Table 7. Land Use Designations
Land Use Designation
Designation Description and Characteristics
Appropriate Zoning
District***
RESIDENTIAL - SINGLE FAMILY
Single Family - Rural*
Density of 1 primary dwelling unit or less per gross
acre
Rural-190, Rural-70, Rural 43
Single Family - Large
Lot
Density greater than 1 primary dwelling unit per
gross acre, but not more than 2 primary dwelling
units per gross acre
R1-35
Single Family -
Suburban
Density greater than 2 primary dwelling units per
gross acre, but not more than 3 primary dwelling
units per gross acre
R1-18
Single Family -
Transitional Lot
Density greater than 3 primary dwelling units per
gross acre, but not more than 5 primary dwelling
units per gross acre
R1-10
Single Family - Small
Lot
Density greater than 5 primary dwelling units per
gross acre, but not more than 8 primary dwelling
units per gross acre
R1-8, R1-7, R1-6
RESIDENTIAL - MULTIPLE FAMILY
Multiple Family - Low
Density greater than 8 primary dwelling units per
gross acre, but not more than 12 primary dwelling
units per gross acre
R-2
Multiple Family -
Intermediate
Density greater than 12 dwelling units per gross acre,
but not more than 20 dwelling units per gross acre
R-3
Multiple Family - High
Density greater than 20 primary dwelling units per
gross acre
R-4, R-5
Land Use
Designation
Table
Table 7 lists the designations recognized by Maricopa County for future planning
purposes. In keeping with state law all changes in zoning district boundaries must
be consistent with and conform to this Comprehensive Plan. Therefore, each
designation includes an equivalent zoning district to help ensure consistency.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
104
Land Use Designation
Designation Description and Characteristics
Appropriate Zoning
District***
RESIDENTIAL - OTHER
Mobile Home
Community
One or more mobile homes on a parcel of land that
typically comprises a mobile home park or mobile
home subdivision
Special Use Permit, or R-5 (which
is the least intensive zoning
district to meet requirements)
RETAIL COMMERCIAL
Rural Retail*
Commercial plant nurseries, public riding & boarding
stables, feed stores, kennels, and large animal
medical clinics
Special Use Permit, or least
intensive zoning district to meet
requirements
Convenience Retail
Gas stations, convenience grocery/drug, and other
small stand alone stores of similar character; total
retail space: ≤ 30,000 sq. ft; typical site area: up to
5 acres
C-1
Neighborhood Retail
Lead tenant single supermarket or specialty retail
store along with small-scale secondary stores; total
retail space: 30,000 - 150,000 sq. ft (anchor ratio:
30% - 50%); typical site area: up to 15 acres
C-S or C-1 (least intensive zoning
district to meet requirements)
Community Retail
Lead tenant of one or more department, warehouse,
or specialty retail stores along with small-scale
secondary stores typical of a Power Center; total
retail space: 100,000 - 400,000 sq. ft (anchor ratio:
40% - 60%); typical site area: up to 40 acres
C-S
Regional Retail
Lead tenant of more than one department store
along with small-scale secondary stores typical of
outlet or enclosed malls; total retail space: 400,000+
sq. ft (anchor ratio: 50% - 70%); typical site area: up
to 100 acres
C-S
Miscellaneous Retail
Stand alone commercial uses that do not meet
any other commercial land use category, and are
intended to serve local or community needs
Least intensive zoning district to
meet requirements
EMPLOYMENT
Office
Office space for administrative, professional, semi-
professional, and support activities where no retail
trade is conducted
C-O
Light Industrial
Warehouse, distribution, and large-scale storage
activities as well as manufacturing and assembly
of small goods intended for end users. Noise, odor,
dust, glare, and other side effects are completely
confined within an enclosed building
IND 1
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
105
Land Use Designation
Designation Description and Characteristics
Appropriate Zoning
District***
Heavy Industrial
Manufacturing, assembly, and fabrication of large
goods requiring heavy raw materials; processing
and refinement of natural resources; data centers
IND-2 or IND-3 based on uses
(least intensive zoning district to
meet requirements)
Business Park
Large area specifically designated for office,
research, warehouse, and direct support employment
uses of similar types that are grouped together
and located in close proximity or on the same lot.
Uses are developed under a coordinated plan with
integrated infrastructure. Residential, general retail,
and industrial uses involving assembly, fabrication,
and processing are not allowed
C-O
Industrial Park
Large area specifically designated for either light
industrial and support uses or heavy industrial and
support uses of similar type, and developed under
a coordinated plan with integrated infrastructure.
Residential and general retail uses are not allowed
IND 1, IND 2, or IND 3 (least
intensive zoning district to meet
requirements)
Mixed Use
Employment
Mix of office, research, warehouse, light industrial,
and support employment uses on the same or
adjacent parcels. Residential and general retail uses
are not allowed
Least intensive zoning district to
meet requirements
RECREATION
Golf
Golf courses and driving ranges
Any (golf course); Special Use
Permit (driving range)
Parks
Active recreation areas improved with playfield,
exercise, picnic, and general recreation facilities.
Sub-categories include mini-parks (¼ mile service
area, approximate size 1 acre); neighborhood parks
(1 mile service area, approximate size 15 acres);
community parks (1-2 mile service area; approximate
size 25 acres)
ANY
Open Space
Unimproved areas specifically designated for
preservation in an unaltered, natural state and which
only offer passive recreation
ANY
Resort & Campground
Guest ranch, RV park, campground, resort
Special Use Permit as applicable,
or least intensive zoning district
to meet requirements
Zoo
Zoo, wildlife preserves, exotic animal farms
Special Use Permit as applicable,
or least intensive zoning district
to meet requirements
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
106
Land Use Designation
Designation Description and Characteristics
Appropriate Zoning
District***
OTHER
Mixed Use
Mix of single and multiple family residential, office
employment, parks and open space, appropriate
community services, and retail commercial uses
within the same building, same parcel, and/or same
area under a single, integrated plan that emphasizes
close proximity and pedestrian orientation
Least intensive zoning district to
meet requirements
Public Assembly
Stadiums, arenas, amphitheaters, race tracks, rodeo
facilities, auctions and swap meets, amusement
parks, convention facilities, amusement parks,
miniature golf course, commercial dormitories, and
other uses involving large assemblage of people
Special Use Permit as applicable,
or least intensive zoning district
to meet requirements
Community Service
Facilities for government, education, religious
worship, cemeteries, social gathering, public safety,
residential care, and large-scale medical care which
serves the general public
Special Use Permit as applicable
or least intensive zoning district
to meet requirements
Utilities
Electric generating plants, water and wastewater
treatment facilities, and associated offices and
accessory equipment
IND 2
Transportation
Airports, transit centers, rail yards
Special Use Permit as applicable;
IND 2
Waste Disposal
Landfills, waste transfer and recycling facilities
Special Use Permit as applicable;
IND 3
Storage
Mini-warehouse; storage & impoundment of vehicles,
homes, aircraft, & boats; general outdoor storage
C-2 as applicable; special use
permit as applicable; IND-3 as
applicable based on use (least
intensive zoning district to meet
requirements)
Proving Grounds**
Facilities for testing equipment and products
IND-2 or SUP
Military Compatible
Applicable only within state statute-defined High
Noise or Accident Potential Zones, it includes
only those uses determined to be compatible and
consistent with the high noise or accident potential
of a military airport or ancillary military facility
Military Airport & Ancillary
Military Facility Overlay Zoning
District
* Unincorporated areas outside of County Area Plans are designated Rural Development Area and are only appropriate for rural land uses and rural zoning (with
allowances for rural industrial land uses and certain commercial land uses) unless considered as part of the Urban Growth Area within the Municipal-Rural Influence
Framework.
** This Comprehensive Plan recognizes permanently entitled Proving Grounds locations within the Area Plans. Although not shown on Maricopa County Land Use
Map, the Proving Grounds designation is applicable for all proving grounds locations within this Plan or within the Area Plans, except for areas that fall within land
designated as Military Compatible.
*** For guidance only based on gross project density and as applicable to current zoning districts. Other zoning districts may be appropriate on a case-by-case basis
via the UPD process. This does not prevent the addition of new zoning districts to the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance.
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
107
OPPORTUNITY
These goals advance
Opportunity by ensuring growth
is coordinated, high-quality,
and inclusive.
STEWARDSHIP
These goals reinforce
Stewardship by promoting
responsible land use and
environmental protection.
PROSPERITY
These goals collectively
support Prosperity by fostering
economic stability and growth
with fiscal responsibility.
Goals & Policies
Land Use Goal 1: Achieve a coordinated pattern of development.
Goal Statement: Ensure that development across the County is well-planned and cohesive,
promoting efficient land use and infrastructure, and leading to a more organized growth pattern.
Land Use Policies:
1.1
Maricopa County supports phasing plans for new urban development to coordinate such
development with new urban services and infrastructure.
1.2
Maricopa County supports market feasibility studies, cost/benefit where warranted to help
determine when new urban development in unincorporated areas is appropriate.
1.3
Maricopa County supports considering the existence or readiness of urban services and
infrastructure as a factor in the approval or denial of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment or
a Zoning District Change in accordance with the Urban Solutions for Urban Development
strategy.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
108
1.4
Maricopa County supports carefully evaluating development in areas where infrastructure
and public services are limited or not planned, with consideration of long-term service
delivery and fiscal impacts.
1.5
Maricopa County supports coordinating land use and infrastructure planning with state
agencies, other counties, municipalities, relevant utilities, federal agencies, and other
regulatory bodies.
1.6
Maricopa County supports annexation of urban development in unincorporated Maricopa
County by municipalities.
1.7
Maricopa County supports annexation of any unincorporated area of the County that is within
a municipal planning area and completely surrounded by a municipality or municipalities.
1.8
Maricopa County supports the prevention of forming new County Islands.
1.9
Maricopa County supports planning coordination with adjacent municipalities, landowners,
and neighboring public community members for proposed development within County
Islands or municipal planning areas.
1.10
Maricopa County supports considering the plans and projects of overlapping or neighboring
agencies in the planning of unincorporated lands and invite comments and coordination
when appropriate.
1.11
Maricopa County supports flexible design and zoning techniques within County Islands or
municipal planning areas through pre-annexation agreements, as needed, to align future
development with the standards and service expectations of the adjacent municipalities.
1.12
Maricopa County supports directing new urban development to the Urban Growth Area
identified in this plan and complying with the Urban Solutions for Urban Development
strategy.
1.13
Maricopa County supports balanced land use patterns that include various residential, retail,
non-retail employment, and public and civic land uses when appropriate urban services are
available.
1.14
Maricopa County supports reducing the impacts of new urban development on existing
rural land uses, including but not limited to, agriculture, mining, and forestry.
1.15
Maricopa County supports reducing the impacts of new rural development and new
agriculture on existing urban land uses.
1.16
Maricopa County supports periodic reviews of the Area Plan Program and the individual
Area Plans to assess relevance, implementation progress, and alignment with the Maricopa
County Comprehensive Plan.
1.17
Maricopa County supports decommissioning an individual Area Plan upon Board
consideration and approval if the amount of unincorporated land within the area equals less
than 50% of the original total Area Plan limits.
1.18
Maricopa County supports requiring any Area Plan Update or new Area Plan to use the land
use designations in the Comprehensive Plan.
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
109
Land Use Goal 2: Protect public health, safety, and well-being
within unincorporated Maricopa County.
Goal Statement: Implementing land use policies that prioritize the health, safety, and overall
well-being of residents is essential for creating desirable developments and destinations and
maintaining a high quality of life for existing residents.
Land Use Policies:
2.1
Maricopa County supports considering response times for public safety, fire, and other
emergency responders in determining the feasibility of new development in unincorporated
areas.
2.2
Maricopa County supports public safety and security features included in the design of new
and existing development to promote safe and active communities.
2.3
Maricopa County supports reducing the impacts of new development on Maricopa County’s
regional parks, the Maricopa Trail, and other public open spaces.
2.4
Maricopa County supports interconnected trails, parks, preserves, open space, recreation
centers, and similar features in new development areas where feasible.
2.5
Maricopa County supports the preservation of known and potential sources of aggregates
and related mining operations within its area of jurisdiction from sterilization by proximate
incompatible land uses.
2.6
Maricopa County supports land use buffers and land use transitions in urban/rural interface
areas, including near aggregate mining operations, military installations, proving grounds,
and the County’s regional parks.
2.7
Maricopa County supports the restoration of land to a beneficial condition on post-
aggregates mining reclamation sites, that may include future development if feasible
considering site conditions and the compatibility of nearby land uses.
2.8
Maricopa County supports flexible design and zoning techniques when used to establish
balanced and efficient land use patterns, and when used to protect important environmental
and open space areas and the connections between these areas.
2.9
Maricopa County supports the use of land use buffers and compatible land use strategies
near existing and future high voltage electric utility line corridors in coordination with power
utility companies.
2.10
Maricopa County supports land use compatibility within the High Noise or Accident Potential
Zone of Luke Air Force Base, Auxiliary Airfield #1, and the military auxiliary airfield near the
town of Gila Bend.
2.11
Maricopa County supports land use compatibility in the influence area of a military
installation or range or Arizona national guard site.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
110
Land Use Goal 3: Encourage high-quality development.
Goal Statement: Development projects that meet high standards of design and construction are
key for enhancing the County’s aesthetic appeal and long-term viability.
Land Use Policies:
3.1
Maricopa County supports mixed housing options.
3.2
Maricopa County supports residential development that contributes to maintaining a long-
term level of high quality of development.
3.3
Maricopa County supports locating housing in areas served by transportation networks, in
close proximity to job centers, and where public services and infrastructure are available or
readily available.
3.4
Maricopa County supports rehabilitation and/or abatement by private parties of substandard,
nuisance, vacant, and/or abandoned homes, buildings and land to protect neighborhoods
and property values.
3.5
Maricopa County supports subdivisions rather than unregulated land divisions otherwise
known as “wildcat” lot splits.
3.6
Maricopa County supports high-quality commercial centers and well-designed office,
business, and industrial parks in the Urban Growth Area with a preference for these
developments to annex into a municipality.
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
111
Land Use Goal 4: Exercise sound financial management in land
use decisions.
Goal Statement: Land use decisions that strengthen the County’s fiscal health and ensure long-
term financial stability are important and central to the financially responsible planning aims of
the County.
Land Use Policies:
4.1
Maricopa County supports compliance with its capital improvement and other funding
programs, except when reimbursement is made to the County for unplanned costs or when
private capital is used for the provision of services and infrastructure.
4.2
Maricopa County supports using homeowners’ associations and related organizations and
improvement districts to manage and maintain services, infrastructure, and amenities to
help limit impacts to taxpayers where appropriate.
4.3
Maricopa County supports using development agreements for large-scale urban
development to help limit financial impacts to the County.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
112
Land Use Goal 5: Provide regional leadership on land use issues.
Goal Statement: The County seeks to take a proactive and leading role in addressing land use
challenges and setting standards for development in the region among the various jurisdictions
in order to promote best practices in land use planning.
Land Use Policies:
5.1
Maricopa County supports promoting awareness about the unique aspects of living in
unincorporated areas.
5.2
Maricopa County supports periodic reviews of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance and
the initiation of specific amendments on an as needed basis.
5.3
Maricopa County supports periodic comprehensive updates of the Maricopa County Zoning
Ordinance on an as needed basis.
5.4
Maricopa County supports coordinated planning efforts between local, state, and federal
agencies.
5.5
Maricopa County supports coordinating with the Arizona State Land Department in the
planning and design of large-scale urban development in or adjacent to State Trust Land.
5.6
Maricopa County supports working with state and federal agencies and utility companies
on any changes to their land ownership boundaries that could lead to acquiring land for
local public use.
5.7
Maricopa County supports coordinating with state and federal agencies and utility
companies to address safety and security issues associated with new development near
the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station.
5.8
Maricopa County supports the incorporation by developers of both on-site utility
infrastructure for large-scale urban developments and the designated utility corridors
necessary to provide essential utility services to those developments.
Chapter 5 • LAND USE
113
6
Transportation
In This Chapter
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Strategies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Goals & Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
The Transportation element establishes Maricopa County’s
support for coordinating future growth with a safe and
comprehensive transportation system. The Transportation
element also emphasizes the importance of an efficient
transportation system to the region’s economy.
Introduction
A robust, efficient, and high-quality transportation system is vital to the movement
of people and goods throughout Maricopa County. It serves as a cornerstone for
economic competitiveness, regional connectivity, and quality of life. This element
delineates the general location and extent of existing and proposed transportation
infrastructure in unincorporated Maricopa County which includes:
Highways
Arterial and collector streets
Bicycle lanes and routes
Other multimodal transportation facilities or options
It is important to note this is a list of transportation infrastructure existing in
unincorporated Maricopa County and not what the County’s transportation
department is responsible for planning, prioritizing, and maintaining.
This element also supports broader regional initiatives aimed at developing
cohesive roadway transportation networks and supporting multimodal
facilities where appropriate and feasible. It also identifies barriers to improving
transportation infrastructure, that are especially relevant in the unincorporated
areas of the County.
Maricopa County faces a dynamic set of transportation challenges, including rapid
population growth and limited financial resources. These factors will continue to
shape the County’s transportation landscape for years to come. However, they
also present opportunities to implement innovative solutions that address the
needs of residents and businesses.
While the Comprehensive Plan cannot resolve every transportation issue, it does
promote a coordinated approach that aligns transportation planning with land use
decisions. This integration is essential for enhancing mobility, fostering viable and
balanced growth, and ensuring that transportation investments yield long-term
benefits for the County.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
116
Planning
Considerations
Existing Roadway Network
The Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is responsible
for maintaining roadway infrastructure within County-owned right-of-way. This
typically falls within the unincorporated areas of the County that are outside
the jurisdiction of municipal and state transportation networks. This system
encompasses approximately 2,458 centerline miles of roadways, forming a critical
component of the County’s overall transportation framework. Since 2010, there
has been a total of 10 miles of new freeway frontage added to the state system
in unincorporated Maricopa County.
MCDOT documents its long-range planning through its Transportation Systems
Plan (TSP) . This plan outlines how limited financial and physical resources will be
allocated to maintain and improve the existing roadway network while addressing
the increasing demand for new infrastructure driven by population growth and
economic development. The TSP encompasses a broad range of topics, including:
Engineering and roadway design standards
Infrastructure financing strategies
System performance and capacity planning
The TSP provides the analytical foundation for transportation decision-making and
supports the County’s efforts to deliver a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation
system.
MCDOT organizes its roadway network within the TSP through a hierarchical
functional classification system. This system classifies roads based on several
criteria, including:
Type of service provided
Desired Level of Service (LOS)
Target Maximum Operating Speed Limit
Roadway design features
2,458 Miles
Miles of roadway that form a critical component of
Maricopa County’s overall transportation framework.
Chapter 6 • TRANSPORTATION
117
The functional classifications used by
MCDOT are Parkway, Principal Arterial,
Minor Arterial, Major Collector, Minor
Collector, and Local. These functional
classifications are described in Table
8. The higher classifications, such as
parkways and arterials, tend to support
longer-distance travel and connect
to regional traffic generators. Lower
classifications, such as collectors
and local roads, facilitate shorter and
more localized trips. The MCDOT’s
functional classifications of the County-
maintained roadway network, including
both existing and future facilities, are
displayed in Map 16. MCDOT’s functional
classification system is separate
from the functional classification that
influences a roadway’s eligibility for
federal and state funding.
Roadways within Maricopa County
Regional Parks are under the purview
of the the Maricopa County Parks and
Recreation Department (MCPRD). As
part of the parks master plan update
process, MCPRD is preparing circulation
plans for each of the twelve Maricopa
County Regional Parks Master Plans.
These circulation plans guide roadway
improvement strategies to provide
optimal interconnectivity, accessibility,
and a balanced park roadway system.
While park roadways account for only
a fraction of land within the parks and
preserves, they serve an important role
in connecting visitors to park facilities.
County Regional Park roadways use
separate functional classification
criteria and are not included in this map.
Table 8. MCDOT Roadway Functional Classifications
Roadway Type
Context
Target of Maximum
Operating Speed
Minimum
Right-of-Way
Parkway
Urban
55 mph
200 feet
Rural
65 mph
200 feet
Principal Arterial
Urban
45 mph
130 feet
Rural
55 mph
150 feet
Minor Arterial
Urban
45 mph
110 feet
Rural
45 mph
130 feet
Major Collector
Urban
30 mph
80 feet
Rural
40 mph
80 feet
Minor Collector
Urban
30 mph
60 feet
Rural
55 mph
60 feet
Local Road
Urban
25 mph
50 feet
Rural
25 mph
50 feet
Source: Maricopa County Roadway Design Manual, 2025
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
118
The MCDOT network includes roadways classified from
parkways and arterials to collectors and local roads, each
serving distinct travel needs.
Source: Maricopa County Department of Transportation, 2025
Map 16. MCDOT Functional Classification (Existing and Future)
Chapter 6 • TRANSPORTATION
119
Table 9. Maricopa County Bicycle Facility Inventory
Facility Type
Centerline Miles
Bike Lane
160
Bike Route
30
Paved Shoulder
144
Unidentified
53
Total
387
Source: MCDOT Asset Management System, 2026
Active Transportation
The
Maricopa
County
active
transportation network includes
bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure
in the unincorporated areas of the
County. The MCDOT Roadway Design
Manual (RDM) provides guidelines for
the development standards for this
network.
Bicycle facilities include, but are not
limited to, dedicated bicycle lanes,
signed bicycle routes, and paved
shoulders. These facilities are located
in both rural and urban areas of
unincorporated County. New bicycle
facilities are routinely added to the
County’s transportation system during
roadway construction and maintenance
projects. Table 9 lists the types of
bicycle facilities in unincorporated
Maricopa County as reported in the
MCDOT Asset Management System.
Bicycle lanes are located both in
residential and commercial areas,
as well as on rural roads which lead
to parks and recreation areas. Paved
shoulders are primarily found on
regional corridors at the edge of the
County’s more urbanized areas.
The pedestrian facilities in the
Maricopa County transportation
network include, but are not limited
to, sidewalks, crosswalks, curb ramps,
median refuge islands, pedestrian
under/overpasses, and signalized
crossings. Traditionally, sidewalk width
standards are a minimum of five feet.
In 2021, MCDOT implemented a six-
foot or greater requirement for all new
sidewalk projects. According to the
MCDOT Asset Management System,
unincorporated Maricopa County
has 1,276 miles of sidewalks, located
primarily in residential developments.
Approximately 59% of all sidewalks that
are located in unincorporated Maricopa
County are in Sun City and Sun City
West. Anthem has just about 10% of all
sidewalks in unincorporated Maricopa
County. Unincorporated communities
near Waddell, Litchfield Park, East
Mesa, and Laveen also have extensive
sidewalk networks. Figure 12 shows
the summary of sidewalk locations in
Maricopa County as reported from the
MCDOT Asset Management System.
Beyond providing a safe and designated
space for walking, the County works to
adhere to standards from the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA) to build a
network that emphasizes inclusive and
independent mobility. To evaluate and
prioritize ADA facilities, MCDOT created
the Neighborhood Facilities Analysis
(NFA) studies to analyze neighborhoods
in unincorporated Maricopa County and
provide recommendations to develop
projects for future implementation.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
120
Source: MCDOT Asset Management System, 2026
Multimodal and Alternative
Transportation
Maricopa County does not operate
or provide regional transit services.
However, MCDOT does provide
accessible connections to the overall
Valley Metro network that provides
alternative transportation options for
residents of Maricopa County to access
nearby and regional destinations. There
are a total of 17 different operating bus
routes and 119 bus stops in the Valley
Metro system located along roadways
maintained by MCDOT.
The need to support multi-modal
and alternative transportation is
a reasonable strategy to address
multiple challenges, including Maricopa
County’s air quality concerns and the
economic, social, and environmental
impacts of traffic congestion. However,
it is important to clarify that although
Maricopa County contributes funding
to public transit, it is not a direct
provider or operator of such services
nor does the County have the funding
for substantial contributions to
multimodal facilities. Accordingly, the
Comprehensive Plan emphasizes the
County’s role in advancing multimodal
oprions where feasible such as bicycle,
pedestrian, and other low-volume
alternative transportation mode
facilities. This regional role is where
the County can exert direct influence
and provide meaningful support.
Transportation Improvement Plan
Maricopa
County
updates
its
Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP)
annually to outline and prepare for the
next five years of enhancements to the
MCDOT transportation system. The TIP
prioritizes these improvements, with
the highest-priority projects scheduled
first. While the TIP covers a five-year
span, only the projects listed for the
first year receive immediate funding
due to the county’s single-year budget
approach. However, as projects rise in
priority, they typically secure funding
over time.
Since the TIP aligns available funding
with the highest needs, deviations
from it can be challenging. Therefore,
when new development necessitates
infrastructure improvements not
included in the TIP, Maricopa County
assesses the mechanisms for how
the development should cover these
costs. This scenario is common in
unincorporated areas, particularly
where large urban developments are
situated within the County’s area of
jurisdiction. Moreover, this scenario
highlights the importance of ensuring
that new growth does not strain the
County’s financial resources and that
future improvements are planned
strategically and rationally.
Figure 12. Summary of
Sidewalk Facilities in
Unincorporated Maricopa
County
Chapter 6 • TRANSPORTATION
121
Strategies
Future Network Growth and
Maintenance
MCDOT looks to meet future needs
for its transportation network through
implementing carefully planned
solutions that maintain a safe and
efficient transportation system.
Following the predominant land use
patterns, a majority of the future growth
of new roadways under the County’s
jurisdiction is planned in the western
portion of the urban fringe with a
noticeable concentration of planned
future roadways north of Interstate 10
near Tonopah.
As growth continues throughout
unincorporated Maricopa County,
development of the transportation
system should consider a level
of sensitivity to the surrounding
landscape, especially in the rural
areas of the County. Scenic corridors
are a helpful tool to contribute to
community identity and tourism
appeal by highlighting of the region’s
natural beauty, cultural heritage, and
unique desert landscapes. Relatedly,
wildlife habitat linkages, identified with
collaboration from state and federal
agencies, are critical for maintaining
biodiversity and safe animal movement
across natural landscapes fragmented
by development. The Comprehensive
Plan supports transportation planning
that considers the impact of the
growth of the transportation system
on scenic corridors and determined
wildlife habitat linkages. The aim is to
minimize habitat disruption, preserve
viewsheds, and incorporate other
potential mitigation measures to strike
a balance between mobility growth and
stewardship of the natural landscape.
Preserving Road Alignments
In order to accommodate increased
traffic on its roadway network from
growth and new development in an
efficient and cost-effective manner,
MCDOT relies on the identification and
preservation of roadway alignments
where new or expanded roads are
anticipated. Identifying future road
alignments can present challenges
because of environmental, economic,
legal, political and engineering
considerations. However, the overall
alignment preservation process
results in long-term plans that provide
guidance for the preferred locations for
future roads, highways and bridges.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
122
Municipal Annexations of
Roadways
Typically, roads operated by Maricopa
County are in unincorporated areas and
travel through rural and often remote
locales. Compared to municipally
operated roads, County roads are likely
to be missing urban features such as
streetlights, fully built-out roadway
conditions, fully-controlled drainage,
and pedestrian facilities.
As the incorporated municipalities
in the County continue to grow and
expand, Maricopa County places
importance on its goal of having both
land and the adjacent roadways be
annexed. In the past, municipalities
often annexed only the land and
left the adjacent roads behind still
under the County’s operation, which
hindered these roads from being
brought up to the standards of the
annexing municipality. These County
roadways were quickly surrounded by
an increasingly developing urban area
resulting in transportation needs that
a municipality is more appropriate to
address. This led to scalloped streets
that are a hazardous condition in many
County Islands where short roadway
segments change their configurations
as the pavement crosses between
the boundaries of incorporated and
unincorporated areas. Frequently,
these scalloped street configurations
do not meet the surrounding municipal
standards so they are effectively rural
roads within urban areas that are costly
to maintain, may not have adequate
street lighting, and are difficult to
eliminate. Maricopa County highliy
encourages municipalities to annex
adjoining roads to reduce scalloped
streets and help reduce financial
burden on County taxpayers.
Intelligent Transportation Systems
and Connected Vehicles
Maricopa
County
supports
the
deployment
of
Intelligent
Transportation Systems (ITS) and
Connected Vehicle (CV) technology as
a means to support and enhance the
safe and efficient movement of people
and goods throughout the region
in a manner that does not increase
surveillance of drivers’ habits. Through
its nationally recognized SMARTDrive
Program, MCDOT has been a leader in
advancing CV technology since 2008,
collaborating with partners such as
ADOT, the University of Arizona, and
the Institute of Automated Mobility.
These efforts include the development
of a 5.3-mile test bed in Anthem,
Arizona, featuring eleven signalized
intersections equipped to exchange
real-time data between vehicles and
infrastructure, improving emergency
response and reducing crash risks.
MCDOT also plays a key role in the
Arizona Connected Vehicle Program,
which integrates ITS architecture
across jurisdictions to support
seamless communication and traffic
and safety management. By investing
in these technologies, Maricopa County
is building a smarter transportation
network that reduces congestion,
enhances safety, and prepares the
region for future mobility innovations.
Chapter 6 • TRANSPORTATION
123
Transportation Funding
MCDOT receives the majority of its revenue
from funds delivered out of the Highway User
Revenue Fund (HURF), which is made up of
revenue collected from gasoline and use-fuel
taxes, motor vehicle registration fees, motor-
carrier taxes, vehicle-license taxes, motor
vehicle operators’ license fees, and other
miscellaneous fees. The State of Arizona’s
Vehicle License Tax (VLT) is a property tax
based on vehicle assessments that also funds
a portion of MCDOT transportation initiatives.
The MAG Arterial Life Cycle Program (ALCP)
provides over 12% of MCDOT’s annual
revenue. These funds originate from the
Proposition 479 half-cent sales tax passed
by voters in 2024 and started in 2026 to fund
transportation projects on the MCDOT system,
as well as funding improvements for other
jurisdictions in the region. Just under 20% of
MCDOT’s remaining revenue sources come
from a combination of intergovernmental
charges, permit fees, interest earnings, asset
sales, grants, partnership revenue, and other
miscellaneous revenue.
It is important for MCDOT to understand the
sources of its annual funds and analyze the
projections of available funds into the future.
This way MCDOT can put together its annual
TIP using a data-based process to match
funds to the needs of its entire transportation
system.
Planned and Conceptual Future
Highways in Maricopa County
Beyond Maricopa County’s transportation
system, there are planned future freeway
facilities (see Map 17) within the County’s
limits that will travel through unincorporated
areas and likely bring about transformative
impacts to them. Interstate 11 (I-11) is a
planned new freeway corridor that will
ultimately run from the US-Mexican border
in Douglas, AZ to Las Vegas, NV. In Maricopa
County, I-11 will traverse between the City of
Goodyear and the Sonoran Desert National
Monument and head north toward Wickenburg
west of the White Tank Mountains. At the time
of adoption of this Comprehensive Plan, I-11 in
Arizona has no secured funding nor has made
a timeline of construction.
State Route 30 (SR 30) is another planned
freeway in the Phoenix metropolitan area that
will be a second east-west reliever, south of
Interstate 10 starting at the Interstate 17 at the
Durango Curve travelling through Laveen and
ending at State Route 85 southwest of the City
of Buckeye. The future construction of SR 30
is slated for funding under Proposition 479.
When completed SR 30 will most definitely
have implications for the development of the
unincorporated areas it travels through near
Laveen, Avondale, Goodyear, and Buckeye.
Other planned freeway facility improvements
that will have an effect on unincorporated
Maricopa County are the furthering of State
Route Loop 303 (Loop 303) to the planned
SR 30 alignment and improvements to
State Route 74 that include widening and
intersection upgrades. These improvements
to State Route 74 do have an additional
consideration of balance due to the facility’s
designation as a regulatory scenic corridor.
Both of these improvements to Loop 303
and State Route 74 would likely prompt and
advance development in the unincorporated
areas adjacent to these facilities.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
124
Future highways shaping Maricopa County include State
Route 30, an extension of Loop 303, improvements to State
Route 74, and Interstate 11.
Source: ADOT 2021; FHWA 2021; MAG RTP MOMENTUM 2050 Update
Map 17. Future Planned Freeway Facility Map
Chapter 6 • TRANSPORTATION
125
Partnering with Jurisdictions in the
Region
Maricopa County plays a vital role
as a collaborative partner in regional
transportation planning, working closely
with municipal governments, state agencies,
and federal entities to ensure a cohesive
and efficient transportation network.
Through its active participation in regional
planning organizations such as the Maricopa
Association of Governments, the County helps
shape long-range transportation strategies
that align with local priorities and broader
regional goals. This partnership enables
coordinated investment in infrastructure,
data sharing, and policy development that
supports multimodal transportation, safety
enhancements, and efficient growth across
jurisdictional boundaries.
At the state and federal levels, Maricopa
County maintains strong working relationships
with the Arizona Department of Transportation
(ADOT)
and
the
Federal
Highway
Administration (FHWA), among others. These
collaborations facilitate the integration of
county transportation projects into statewide
plans and ensure compliance with federal
funding and regulatory requirements. By
leveraging these partnerships, the County
is able to secure resources for critical
improvements, contribute to regional mobility
initiatives, and advocate for policies that
reflect the needs of its diverse communities.
This cooperative approach strengthens the
overall transportation system and reinforces
Maricopa County’s role as a proactive and
reliable partner in shaping Arizona’s overall
mobility future.
Maricopa County does recognize the
importance of strategic partnerships with
municipalities to ensure the effective
maintenance and improvement of the regional
transportation network. Through cost-sharing
arrangements and mutual financial support,
the County has the ability to work with local
jurisdictions to address roadway repairs
and enhancements that benefit County
residents and neighboring communities.
These cooperative efforts maximize the
impact of limited public resources, reduce
duplication, and promote consistent service
delivery across jurisdictional boundaries.
By aligning funding priorities and leveraging
shared investments, Maricopa County helps
create a more resilient and interconnected
transportation system.
Additionally, Maricopa County supports the
use of intergovernmental agreements (IGAs)
that facilitate the construction of roads within
or through County Islands to the standards
of the surrounding municipality. These
agreements enable municipalities or private
entities to build infrastructure that meets
local design and operational expectations,
particularly in areas slated for future
annexation. This approach ensures continuity
in roadway quality, safety, and aesthetics, while
streamlining the transition of jurisdictional
responsibility. By endorsing IGAs, the County
promotes efficient development practices
and reinforces its commitment to regional
coordination and long-term planning.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
126
OPPORTUNITY
These goals advance
Opportunity by ensuring
accessibility and connectivity
for all residents.
STEWARDSHIP
These goals promote Stewardship by
encouraging efficient transportation
systems that reduce congestion and
environmental impacts.
PROSPERITY
These goals ensure Prosperity
through infrastructure
investments and strengthened
economic competitiveness.
Transportation Policies:
1.1
Maricopa County supports compliance with the County Department of Transportation’s
currently adopted Transportation System Plan and its successor plans.
1.2
Maricopa County supports adherence to its Transportation Improvement Program and its
successor programs.
1.3
Maricopa County supports using the preferred funding methods identified in the Cost of
Development element to pay for transportation improvements necessary for new development.
1.4
Maricopa County supports new development funding unanticipated, accelerated and
nonprogrammed improvements where such development requires deviation from the
Transportation Improvement Program.
Transportation Goal 1: Provide a comprehensive transportation
system.
Goal Statement: Developing an integrated transportation network that meets the needs of all
users is vital to ensure that the system is accessible, efficient, and well-connected.
Goals & Policies
Chapter 6 • TRANSPORTATION
127
Transportation Policies:
2.1
Maricopa County supports coordinating decisions on land use patterns and transportation
investments that aim for a safe, efficient, and fiscally solvent transportation network.
2.2
Maricopa County supports designing new roadways to include pedestrian facilities separated
from vehicular traffic with multimodal crossings on arterial roadways as necessary.
2.3
Maricopa County supports the inclusion or connection to alternative transportation in
the design of existing and new urban development, as feasible and effective. Alternative
transportation can include, but is not limited to, sidewalks, the Maricopa Trail and other trail
connections, bicycle facility infrastructure, park-and-ride/public transit facilities, and other
appropriate practices.
2.4
Maricopa County supports using Intelligent Transportation Systems and Connected Vehicle
technology for efficient and safe movement of people and goods.
1.5
Maricopa County supports the preservation of rights-of-way, as necessary, to maintain and
extend the grid system, to support the state’s development of the highway-interchange
network, and to preserve the scenic corridors.
1.6
Maricopa County supports roadway planning that promotes identified scenic corridors and
wildlife habitat linkages and connectivity where necessary.
1.7
Maricopa County supports public education efforts that assist in reducing air pollution.
Transportation Goal 2: Manage the transportation system to provide
continual improvements in reliability, efficiency, and safety.
Goal Statement: Continuously improving the reliability, efficiency, and safety of the transportation
system through active management is crucial to meet the community’s evolving needs.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
128
Transportation Policies:
3.1
Maricopa County supports partnerships with municipalities in cost sharing and mutual
financial support for road repairs and improvements.
3.2
Maricopa County supports municipal annexation of roads that are adjacent to County Islands.
3.3
Maricopa County supports intergovernmental agreements that allow for municipal or
private construction of roads in and passing through County Islands to the standards of the
surrounding municipality where these roads are intended to be annexed by the municipality.
3.4
Maricopa County supports partnerships with federal, state, and local governments and
agencies for interjurisdictional traffic operations and management for the benefit of regional
safety and mobility.
3.5
Maricopa County supports coordination between property owners to establish an agreement
to maintain private ingress/egress.
Transportation Goal 3: Support regional and interagency
collaboration.
Goal Statement: Fostering collaboration among the transportation agencies in the region is critical
to create and maintain a more effective, integrated, and functionally competitive transportation
system.
Chapter 6 • TRANSPORTATION
129
7
Environment
In This Chapter
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Strategies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Goals & Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Protecting and managing critical resources like air, water,
energy, and dark skies is essential for a healthy future.
Introduction
The Environmental Element identifies
Maricopa County’s natural resources
and highlights the importance of
their retention, enhancement, and
responsible development to improve
quality of life and environmental health.
Protecting and managing all of the
critical resources and conditions that
exist across the County such as our air,
water, wildlife, and other aspects of the
natural landscape are essential for a
healthy future. Likewise, preserving
remaining areas of undisturbed plant
and wildlife habitats is critical. Without
careful planning, new development
can lead to depletion of limited water
and energy supplies, increased air and
water pollution, and harm to biological
resources.
This
chapter
establishes
a
comprehensive
framework
for
safeguarding the unique natural
assets and ecological systems that
define Maricopa County’s desert
environment. Defined goals promote
responsible growth, while addressing
challenges such as heat exposure,
wildfire risk, air and groundwater
quality, and habitat fragmentation.
Additional planning policies further help
to prioritize conservation, efficiency,
and environmental protection in order
to mitigate these risks. The following
sections summarize these key natural
resources that must be considered
as the county experiences continued
growth and development.
The Environment element identifies Maricopa County’s
foremost concerns with respect to environmental issues, and
potential strategies for lessening the impact that development
has on its environment. Particular attention focuses on air
quality, water quality, wildlife protection, natural and cultural
resources, and natural and environmental hazards.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
132
Maricopa County carries a critical obligation to safeguard its environmental and natural resources while ensuring their use
and enjoyment remain viable for future generations. This balance supports economic vitality, public health, and quality of
life across both incorporated and unincorporated areas. Shaped by the Sonoran Desert’s distinctive landscapes, rugged
mountains, and riparian corridors, the County’s natural environment provides critical ecological functions, habitat for diverse
species, and cultural and recreational value. Yet these resources face growing pressures from urbanization, weather-related
phenomena, and invasive species, underscoring the need for proactive management and thoughtful planning.
Planning Considerations
Air Quality
Air quality in Maricopa County has
improved significantly over the past
two decades, largely due to the
efforts of the Maricopa County Air
Quality Department (MCAQD). The
department monitors pollution levels
and enforces regulations to reduce
emissions from vehicles, industry, and
construction dust. Despite progress,
challenges remain with high ozone
levels, fine particulate matter (PM2.5)
from smoke and exhaust, and coarse
particulate matter (PM10) from dust and
soot, pollutants that pose health risks
to sensitive groups and the general
population. Figure 13 illustrates the
annual exceedance days for these
pollutants as the County’s population
has grown. MCAQD also promotes
cleaner air through community
education and outreach. Continued
efforts are essential to maintain and
further improve air quality in the region.
Noise Quality
Maintaining healthy noise levels contributes to the quality of life in Maricopa
County. Noise pollution is a significant concern, particularly in urban areas and near
major transportation facilities. The County implemented a comprehensive Noise
Ordinance to address excessive, unnecessary, and disruptive noise, recognizing
its detrimental effects on residents’ health and welfare. This ordinance aims to
balance the needs of commerce and property enjoyment with environmental
quality and public peace of mind. Enforcement is primarily handled by the Maricopa
County Sheriff’s Office which intends to keep noise levels within acceptable limits
to promote a high quality of life. Additionally, specific regulations are in place to
control noise from construction activities and military airports, further mitigating
the impact of noise pollution.
Water Quality
The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) plays a key
role in protecting water quality and safety in unincorporated areas. The department
monitors water resources, enforces regulations, and promotes conservation
through public education and community engagement. By integrating the
management of surface water, groundwater, and reclaimed water, Maricopa
County works in coordination with the State of Arizona to support the state
government’s goal of creating a resilient water supply system capable of meeting
the needs of a growing population and diverse economy.
Figure 13. Ozone, PM2.5, and PM10 Exceedance Days in
Maricopa County per Year
Source: Maricopa County Air Quality Department, 2024
Chapter 7 • ENVIRONMENT
133
The Maricopa County
Flood Control District
plays a crucial role in
safeguarding residents
from the dangers of
flooding.
Buckeye
Carefree
Cave Creek
Chandler
El Mirage
Gila Bend
Guadalupe
Litchfield Park
Mesa
Queen Creek
Surprise
Tolleson
Wickenburg
Youngtown
Map 18 shows the areas of the County where the Maricopa County Flood Control
District has the responsibility for floodplain management, along with regulatory
floodways as well as the areas of a 1% annual chance of a flood hazard (or the
100-year floodplain) within the County limits.
The District employs a team of engineers, hydrologists, and other professionals
who design, construct, and maintain an extensive network of dams, basins, and
channels. These structures are essential in controlling floodwaters and protecting
both urban and rural areas from potential damage.
In addition to physical infrastructure, the FCD places a strong emphasis on
community education and preparedness. They provide valuable resources such
as floodplain maps, technical studies, and permitting information to help residents
and businesses understand their flood risks and take appropriate measures.
The district also engages in public outreach efforts, offering workshops and
informational sessions to ensure that the community is well-informed about
flood safety and prevention strategies. By fostering a culture of awareness and
preparedness, the FCD aims to minimize the impact of flooding on people’s lives
and properties.
Furthermore, the Maricopa County Flood Control District is committed to high-
caliber and innovative water management practices. Recognizing stormwater as
a valuable resource, the District works on projects that not only mitigate flood
risks but also enhance water conservation and environmental stewardship. These
initiatives include the development of infrastructure, such as rain gardens and
permeable pavements, which help to recharge groundwater and reduce runoff.
With this approach to flood control, the FCD contributes to the long-term resilience
and well-being of the Maricopa County community.
Flood Control
The Maricopa County Flood Control District (FCD) plays a crucial role in
safeguarding the residents of Maricopa County from the dangers of flooding.
Established to address the unique challenges posed by the region’s desert climate,
the FCD is responsible for managing and mitigating flood risks that arise during
the summer monsoon season and winter rainstorms. It is also responsible for
floodplain management and regulation in unincorporated Maricopa County, as
well as in the following incorporated communities:
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
134
The Maricopa County Flood Control District plays a crucial
role in safeguarding residents from the dangers of flooding
through floodplain management and regulation.
Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency, 2024
Map 18. Floodplain Management in Maricopa County
Chapter 7 • ENVIRONMENT
135
H1
Wildlife Connectivity Corridors
The 2012 Maricopa County Wildlife Connectivity Assessment, conducted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department
(AZGFD), identified wildlife habitat blocks and movement areas and key missing linkage zones that could overcome
barriers to wildlife movement. This assessment helps guide conservation efforts and land use planning to encourage
that development projects give consideration to wildlife connectivity corridors where appropriate, thereby working to
reduce habitat fragmentation and promoting ecological health.
Wildlife connectivity corridors in Maricopa County are essential for maintaining the movement, population and genetic
diversity of wildlife across the region. The corridors are categorized as either diffuse, landscape, or riparian movement
areas. Diffuse movement areas generalize wildlife movements within habitats, landscape movement areas generalize
wildlife movements between habitats, and riparian movement areas generalize wildlife movement through ecosystems
associated with bodies of water or perennial or ephemeral surface or subsurface water. These corridors, shown in
Map 19, link fragmented habitats, allowing animals to travel between different areas for food, water, and breeding.
These corridors are crucial for species such as mule deer, mountain lions, and various smaller mammals and reptiles.
By identifying these linkages, Maricopa County supports biodiversity and helps mitigate the impacts of urbanization
on wildlife. Efforts to maintain and enhance these corridors to coexist with new development include constructing
wildlife overpasses and underpasses, implementing wildlife-friendly fencing, and engaging in habitat restoration
projects. These initiatives not only benefit wildlife, but they also enhance the quality of life for residents by preserving
the natural heritage and beauty of the region.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
136
Wildlife connectivity corridors in Maricopa County are
important for maintaining the movement, population, and
genetic diversity of wildlife across the region.
Source: Arizona Game & Fish Department, 2026
Map 19. Wildlife Connectivity in Maricopa County
Chapter 7 • ENVIRONMENT
137
H1
Hillside Development
Maricopa County defines any development that occurs on land with a slope, or
grade, of 15% or greater to be hillside development. The grade percentage is
determined as the rise in height measured in feet over a horizontal distance of 100
feet. So, a 15% slope would be land that rises 15 feet over a 100-foot horizontal
distance. Rugged areas with such slopes do exist within the County’s jurisdiction,
particularly in the northern unincorporated areas. These areas do attract certain
types of development, mainly custom homes that offer low densities, rural
character, unobstructed and expansive views and privacy.
However if not designed carefully, hillside development can damage and cause
dangerous conditions to occur that affect the very features these individuals seek.
Some of the potential problems and hazards can include:
Destruction of scenic quality;
Increased stormwater runoff and flooding;
Loss of plant and animal habitat;
Erosion;
Soil/slope failure;
Wildfire hazards;
Lack of safe access for people and emergency vehicles; and
High utility and infrastructure/maintenance costs
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
138
Hillside stability has increasingly
likelihood of degrading as slope
increases
above
15%,
making
development financially unfeasible
due to difficult and costly engineering
requirements. Maricopa County
recognizes the right to develop
private hillside property, but it also
acknowledges its responsibility to
protect the health and safety of other
residents that may be affected by such
development. To help minimize potential
dangers Maricopa County discourages
development on hillside grades above
15% and favors the following general
design characteristics:
Clustering development in areas
below 15%;
Retaining trees and native vegetation
for slope and soil stabilization;
Minimizing
scarring
from
infrastructure cut and fills;
Minimizing building footprints;
Minimizing hillside disturbance and
allow for appropriate landscaping
and natural stormwater runoff; and
Using appropriate materials, shapes,
and colors that allow buildings to
blend into the environment.
Chapter 7 • ENVIRONMENT
139
H1
Urban Heat
Urban heat is a pressing issue throughout all of Maricopa County, particularly in
developed urban areas, where the urban heat island effect exacerbates already
high temperatures and persists through the night reducing the time for an effective
cooling period. This phenomenon occurs because urban areas have more surfaces
like roadway pavement, concrete, and buildings that absorb and retain heat, leading
to higher temperatures compared to surrounding, less developed rural areas, which
are more prevalent in the unincorporated areas. There has been a significant rise
in heat-related medical concerns correlated with the growth of the areas of the
County affected by urban heat. Efforts to mitigate urban heat include planting
more trees for shade, testing reflective pavement coatings, and providing cooling
centers and water distribution during extreme heat events. These measures aim
to reduce the impact of heat on residents as part of the goal of high standards
for public health and safety.
Dark Sky
More population and development often leads to increased nighttime lighting,
which is a result of misdirecting, a lack of shielding, or excessive use. This light
pollution in the aggregate across an urban area causes obstructing glares and
glows that interfere with astronomical observations and stargazing.
The County recognizes the importance of protecting the night sky and has
incorporated a Dark Sky Ordinance in the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. This
ordinance includes provisions to control the use of outdoor, artificial illuminating
light fixtures during the hours of the night. This ordinance encourages good
light practices that conserve energy and money, while also increasing safety,
security and productivity. While the ordinance is an important part of nighttime
sky protection, mitigating light pollution is regional issue that requires working
partnerships with the other jurisdictions in the County.
Cultural/Archaeological Sites
Maricopa County is home to numerous archaeological sites linked to the Hohokam
and other early inhabitants. The Arizona State Historic Preservation Office and
the Arizona State Museum maintain inventories of significant cultural resources
across the state. Additionally, agencies such as the Arizona State Land Department,
U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Defense Department, Bureau of Land Management, and
various Native American communities manage inventories for the areas they
oversee. The presence and importance of these archaeological sites can influence
the timing, location, and feasibility of development projects.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
140
Wildfires
Maricopa County faces increasing
wildfire risks due to prolonged drought,
invasive vegetation, and rapid urban
expansion into wildland areas. The
“wildland-urban interface” (WUI)—where
homes meet desert landscapes—has
grown by over 50% since 1990, creating
more ignition points and complicating
fire suppression efforts along these
edge environments. Areas in northern
Maricopa County such as the Tonto
National Forest edge and areas with
dense vegetation such as the Gila River
corridor are particularly vulnerable. Red
Flag warnings (which signal that critical
fire weather conditions are occurring or
expected soon) have become common.
Maricopa County addresses wildfire
risks through a comprehensive, multi-
layered strategy that emphasizes
prevention,
preparedness,
and
collaboration. The Community Wildfire
Protection Plan (CWPP) serves as the
cornerstone, focusing on fuel reduction,
fire prevention, and community
engagement, with progress reviewed
regularly. The Emergency Operations
Plan (EOP) provides a coordinated
framework for wildfire response,
utilizing the Incident Command System
(ICS) to ensure efficient interagency
operations. Complementing these
efforts, the Hazard Mitigation Plan
identifies high-risk areas and prioritizes
projects that reduce wildfire impacts
and recovery costs. Public education is
central to the County’s approach, with
the Ready, Set, Go! program guiding
residents through preparedness and
evacuation protocols, especially during
Red Flag conditions. Additionally,
Maricopa County collaborates with
state and federal agencies to secure
grants for fuel reduction, firebreak
construction, and CWPP updates,
reinforcing regional resilience against
wildfire threats.
Chapter 7 • ENVIRONMENT
141
Air Quality & Public Health
Improving air quality is a central goal of the Environment Element in the
Comprehensive Plan, especially as population growth and transportation
emissions contribute to elevated ozone and particulate matter levels. Dust
from construction and unpaved surfaces further exacerbate these conditions,
making compliance with the County’s dust abatement programs and promotion
of clean air technologies essential. Future planning should pair these efforts
with balanced, efficient land use patterns and expanded opportunities for non-
motorized transportation to support regional air quality improvement. At the same
time, strategies must address water quality, adaptation, and hazard preparedness.
Habitat Connectivity, Biodiversity
& Invasive Species Management
Urban expansion fragments wildlife corridors, limiting species movement and
reducing genetic diversity, while invasive plants such as stinknet, Sahara mustard,
buffelgrass, and tamarisk further threaten ecological health by displacing native
vegetation and increasing wildfire risk. Future development should prioritize
habitat connectivity through green infrastructure, conservation easements, and
strategic open space planning to maintain biodiversity and support pollinators,
which are vital for ecosystem stability. At the same time, long-term invasive
species management, including early detection, rapid response, and restoration
with native plants, must be paired with public education and volunteer engagement
to amplify these efforts and reduce reinfestation.
Dust from construction and unpaved surfaces further
exacerbates elevated ozone and particulate matter levels,
making compliance with the County’s dust abatement
program and promotion of clean air technologies essential.
Strategies
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
142
Building a culture of environmental
stewardship
requires
active
participation and strong partnerships.
Public education programs should
emphasize the importance of air and
water quality, habitat protection, and
adaptation, empowering residents to
make informed choices that support
regional goals. Volunteer initiatives,
such as invasive species removal and
habitat restoration projects, provide
hands-on opportunities for community
involvement and foster a sense of
shared responsibility.
Collaboration among local, state,
and federal agencies is essential for
addressing complex environmental
challenges that cross jurisdictional
boundaries. Coordinated efforts
can advance compliance with air
quality standards, implement dark
sky protections, and strengthen
hazard mitigation planning. These
partnerships also support integrated
resource management, ensuring that
strategies for water conservation,
wildlife connectivity, and cultural
resource preservation are aligned
across the region.
Finally, recreation infrastructure and
cultural resource stewardship must
remain priorities to balance public
access with environmental protection.
Thoughtful design of trails, facilities,
and interpretive programs can
minimize ecological impacts while
enhancing visitor experiences. By
combining education, engagement,
and collaboration, Maricopa County
can lead a unified approach to
environmental quality that benefits
both people and nature.
Community Engagement & Regional Collaboration
Chapter 7 • ENVIRONMENT
143
OPPORTUNITY
These goals advance Opportunity
by ensuring that growth occurs
in a way that preserves natural
assets and enhnaces livability.
STEWARDSHIP
These goals strongly embody
Stewardship by focusing on
responsible management and
ecological protection.
PROSPERITY
These goals collectively
support Prosperity and ensure
a high quality of life, supporting
economic growth while
maintaining ecological balance.
Environment Policies:
1.1
Maricopa County supports providing education, regulatory guidance, permitting, inspection,
and enforcement services through the County Air Quality Department’s Strategic Plan and
its Compliance Assurance model to assist in achieving compliance with federal air quality
standards.
1.2
Maricopa County supports the achievement and maintenance of federal air quality standards,
including National Ambient Air Quality Standards.
Environment Goal 1: Enhance the regional environmental quality
for the overall well-being of the community.
Goal Statement: Improving the overall environmental quality through improvements in air quality
and water quality and through the protection of natural resources is a benefit to the overall health
of the region.
Goals & Policies
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
144
Environment Policies:
2.1
Maricopa County supports planning future development while considering the prohibition
of development within floodways and, where necessary, 100-year floodplains as delineated
by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
2.2
Maricopa County supports the Military Compatible land use designation for High Noise or
Accident Potential Zones, and compliance with state laws relating to land use compatibility
and consistency with the high noise or accident potential of Luke Air Force Base and the
ancillary military facilities.
2.3
Maricopa County supports the Military Compatible land use designations within the influence
area of a military installation or range or Arizona national guard site, and compliance with state
laws relating to land use compatibility and consistency with the operation of the installation,
range, or site and its influence area.
2.4
Maricopa County supports flexible zoning techniques when used to keep new development
below the 15% hillside slope and to protect riparian areas.
2.5
Maricopa County supports using the hillside general design characteristics identified in this
element.
1.3
Maricopa County supports incentive programs that promote implementing clean air
technologies and addressing air quality issues throughout Maricopa County where feasible
and effective.
1.4
Maricopa County supports compliance with its Drinking Water program and its Water and
Wastewater Treatment program to protect water quality.
1.5
Maricopa County supports a comprehensive program to control dust (PM10) particularly from
unpaved roads, alleys, and parking lots.
1.6
Maricopa County supports noise reductions in new development design and in the construction
of new buildings where necessary or otherwise where feasible.
1.7
Maricopa County supports enforcement of its Dark Sky Ordinance and supports regional
efforts to limit excessive nighttime light.
Environment Goal 2: Support the protection of sensitive lands and
environments.
Goal Statement: The County aims to safeguard environmentally sensitive areas from the impacts
of development in order to preserve natural habitats and rural landscapes while accommodating
growth in the future.
Chapter 7 • ENVIRONMENT
145
Environment Policies:
3.1
Maricopa County supports reducing the impacts of new development and urbanization on
environmentally sensitive areas, including the habitats and migration corridors of native
wildlife (both flora and fauna).
3.2
Maricopa County supports innovative project design and development techniques that protect
important plant and animal habitats, desert washes, and migration corridors.
3.3
Maricopa County supports completing resource and biological surveys and establishing
needed mitigation measures prior to new development as directed by the Arizona Game and
Fish Department and the State Historic Preservation Office.
Environment Policies:
4.1
Maricopa County supports compliance with watercourse master studies and plans and area
drainage master studies and plans.
4.2
Maricopa County supports fire and wildfire prevention and mitigation measures in the design
of development and in recreational lands and open space where necessary and appropriate.
4.3
Maricopa County supports public education about the risks and limitations of developing in
hazard-prone areas.
Environment Goal 3: Protect the natural biodiversity of the region.
Goal Statement: Protecting and promoting the region’s natural biodiversity is critical to conserving
diverse species and habitats within the County to preserve an ecological balance.
Environment Goal 4: Strengthen the County’s preparedness for
hazards.
Goal Statement: Strengthening the County’s ability to respond to hazards through effective
planning and preparedness reduces regional risk and builds resilience to foreseen and unforeseen
environmental threats.
FRAMEWORK 2040 | Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan
146
Environment Policies:
5.1
Maricopa County supports participating with local, state, and federal agencies on developing
solutions for State Implementation Plans that have not been addressed.
5.2
Maricopa County supports continuing to build relationships and collaborations between the
Arizona Game and Fish Department, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, and
other partners in the effort to preserve ecosystems.
5.3
Maricopa County supports its Department of Emergency Management continuing to work
closely with local, state, federal partners, and community organizations.
5.4
Maricopa County supports implementing the Multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
to ensure a comprehensive and effective emergency management strategy for the region.
Environment Goal 5: Provide regional leadership to promote all
aspects of regional environmental quality.
Goal Statement: Leading efforts to promote environmental quality across the region is a key
objective to steering beneficial environmental stewardship.
Chapter 7 • ENVIRONMENT
147