TA2019001 BOS REPORT.PDF

Maricopa County — Formal (2020-10-07)

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October 7, 2020 
TA2019001 
Page 1 of 1 
Report to the Board of Supervisors 
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department 
 
 
 
Board Hearing Date: 
October 7, 2020 
 
Case #/Title:  
 
TA2019001 –  Wireless Communication Facilities  
 
Supervisor District: 
All 
 
Applicant:  
Commission-initiated   
 
Requests: 
Text Amendment to amend Chapter 12, Wireless 
Communication Facilities; Section 1202, Article 1202.2 and 
 
 
Text Amendment to amend Chapter 13, Conditional Use, 
Section 1303, Article 1303.2 to eliminate Conditional Use 
Permit of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO) 
 
EROP: 
This item is being processed through the County’s Enhanced 
Regulatory Outreach Program (EROP). This matter was 
discussed at the February 27, 2020 Stakeholder meeting. One 
representative from Smartlink attended the Stakeholder 
meeting.  
 
 
  
 
Municipal Comments: 
 
No comments received from EROP Notification process.  
 
Support/Opposition: 
 
No letters of opposition/suggested changes to the proposed 
text. (No new public comment since the February 27, 2020 
Stakeholder meeting.) 
Additional 
Comments: 
Proposed verbatim language is attached to the Commission 
report. 
 
  
Commission  
 
Recommendation: 
On 9/10/20, the Commission voted 6-0 to recommend 
approval of TA2019001.  
 
 
 
Presented by: 
 
Rachel Applegate, Senior Planner 
Reviewed by: 
 
Darren Gérard, AICP, Deputy Director  
 
Attachment: 
 
9/10/20 P&Z Packet (19 pages)  
 
 
Note: 
9/10/20 Draft P&Z Minutes are not available as of the writing of this report, but can 
be provided upon request later when available.

TA2019001 
Page 1 of 7 
Report to the Planning and Zoning Commission 
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department 
 
 
 
Case: 
TA2019001 –  Wireless Communication Facilities  
 
Hearing Date: 
September 10, 2020 
 
Supervisor District: 
All 
 
 
 
  
 
Applicant: 
Commission-initiated   
 
Requests: 
Text Amendment to amend Chapter 12, Wireless Communication 
Facilities; Section 1202, Article 1202.2 and 
 
 
 
Text Amendment to amend Chapter 13, Conditional Use, Section 
1303, Article 1303.2 to eliminate Conditional Use Permit of the 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO) 
 
EROP: 
This item is being processed through the County’s Enhanced 
Regulatory Outreach Program (EROP). This matter was discussed at 
the February 27, 2020 Stakeholder meeting. One representative from 
Smartlink attended the Stakeholder meeting.  
 
 
  
 
Municipal Comments: 
No comments received from EROP Notification process.  
 
Support/Opposition: 
No letters of opposition/suggested changes to the proposed text. 
(No new public comment since the February 27, 2020 Stakeholder 
meeting.) 
 
Recommendation: 
Approval  
 
Project Summary: 
 
This text amendment would amend the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO), Chapter 
12 Wireless Communication Facilities, Section 1202, Article 1202.2 General Provisions to include 
language to reference federal requirements for eligible facilities requests.  
 
This text amendment will amend the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO), Chapter 13 
Conditional Use, Section 1303, Article 1303.2 to eliminate Conditional Use Permit.  
 
The purpose of this text amendment is to eliminate the need for a conditional use permit to 
construct wireless communication facilities, provided such facilities meet Federal guidelines for 
“eligible facilities requests” and meet Maricopa County zoning regulations. In such cases, this 
amendment would remove the conditional use permit application and review process from the 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance since it is an unnecessary step in the entitlement and 
development process. In instances where wireless communication facilities do not meet federal 
guidelines and do not meet the zoning standards outlined in Chapter 12, a special use permit will 
still be required.

TA2019001 
Page 2 of 7 
By removing the existing regulatory requirement for the noted conditional use permit application, 
this amendment would not create any additional regulations and would result in elimination of an 
existing but unnecessary regulations since the MCZO currently identifies these types of wireless 
communication facilities as by-right land use. Elimination of the conditional use permit application 
would allow property owners to proceed forward with building permits if all wireless 
communication standards can be met.  
 
The proposed language was modified after comments were provided from industry 
representatives at and following the stakeholder meeting.  The recommended text amendment 
language is shown in legislative edit format.  Language to be added is underscored in blue. 
Langue to be deleted is struck through in red. 
  
SECTION 1202.  
WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES*1, *2 
 
ARTICLE 1202.1. PURPOSE: The principal purpose of this Section is to establish the 
locations 
in 
unincorporated 
Maricopa 
County 
where 
wireless 
communication and information system facilities may be located and the 
regulations that apply to their placement. The regulations contained 
herein are designed to recognize the need to accommodate the approval 
of those types of public utility uses while still recognizing the need to 
promote the public health, safety and general welfare of the citizens 
of Maricopa County. These regulations establish zoning standards that 
will protect the integrity of single-family neighborhoods and maintain the 
character, identity, and image of hillside areas. 
 
ARTICLE 1202.2.  GENERAL PROVISIONS 
 
1202.2.1 
Wireless communications facilities are permitted in all zoning districts  
 
subject to the provisions and standards outlined in this Section. 
 
1202.2.2 
Wireless communication facilities are permitted on individual lots of  
 
record, or on lease or easement areas described by metes and bounds 
 
of an area adequate to accommodate the tower structure and associated  
 
ground equipment for at least two carriers. 
 
1202.2.3 
The construction and location of wireless communication facilities and  
 
facilities for wireless information systems shall be subject to the  
 
standards contained in this regulation, unless otherwise noted herein. 
 
1202.2.4 
Wireless communication structures in excess of 199 feet in height are  
 
prohibited unless co-locating on an existing structure (other than a  
 
wireless communication facility tower) and unless there is a plan to  
 
mitigate interference with military and commercial aircraft and to mitigate  
 
disruption of avian migration and nesting and to preserve nighttime skies  
 
for astronomical observation, and shall be required to obtain Special  
 
Use Permit approval of the Board of Supervisors. Structures of 199 feet  
 
or less in height shall not have lighting, unless said lighting is specific to

TA2019001 
Page 3 of 7 
 
the purpose of a structure upon which a wireless communication facility is  
 
co-located. *1 
 
1202.2.5 
Facilities for public safety agencies are exempt from the requirements of  
 
this Section. 
 
1202.2.6 
The standards contained in this Section with regard to height, diameter,  
  
and design are concealment elements to ensure structures do not  
  
have an adverse visual impact or harm the public welfare. 
 
1202.2.7 
Any wireless communication facility properly permitted that existed as of  
 
June 10, 2015 shall be considered legal non-conforming with regard to  
 
This Section. Any change to a legal non-conforming wireless  
 
communication facility shall bring it into conformance with this Section or  
 
shall be subject to a Special Use Permit. 
 
1202.2.8.  
Any proposed wireless communication facility that UNLESS QUALIFYING 
AS AN ELIGIBLE FACILITIES REQUEST UNDER SECTION 6409 OF THE 
SPECTUM ACT – AS DEFINED BY 47 CFR 1.4001 (B)(3) AS AMENDED – 
ANY PROPOSED WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITY THAT cannot 
meet the standards outlined in Article 1202.3 of this Ordinance shall be 
required to obtain a Special Use Permit approval by the Board of Supervisors. 
A facility that meets the standards shall be processed administratively as a 
Conditional Use Permit prior to obtaining construction permits. Notwithstanding 
the foregoing, relief from the standards may be granted with approval of a 
Variance pursuant to Section 303 of this Ordinance. 
 
ARTICLE 1202.3.  STANDARDS:   The   following   standards   shall   apply   to   Wireless 
Communication Facilities:*1 
 
1202.3.1.1 
Location: 
 
1. 
In Rural, Single-Family Residential or Multiple-Family Residential 
Zoning Districts, wireless communication facilities are permitted 
subject to the following limitations:*1 
 
a. 
The maximum height of a wireless communications facility 
including the base, platform and attached antennae shall not 
exceed 80 feet above grade or no greater than 15 feet above 
the 
height 
of 
the 
structure 
(other 
than 
a 
wireless 
communication facility tower) onto which it will be attached. 
 
b. 
Up to two wireless communication facilities may be 
mounted on a building and may include not more than two 
microwave antennae dishes with diameters of not more 
than one and one half meters (4.9 feet) each, and each 
being 15 feet or less in height as measured above

TA2019001 
Page 4 of 7 
c. 
the roofline so long as the supporting structure is screened.*1 
 
d. 
Towers and support structures shall have a maximum diameter of 
30 inches (2.5 feet). 
 
e. 
The color of a wireless communication facility shall be 
compatible 
with 
the 
surrounding 
environment. 
Exposed 
portions of the tower structure shall be non-reflective. *1 
 
f. 
Installation of a wireless communication facility shall avoid 
removal of mature trees and cacti unless a plan for their 
relocation is approved by the Department. *1 
 
g. 
Wireless communication facilities which are installed on properties 
on or within 500 feet of a property required to meet Hillside 
Development Standards of Chapter 12, Section 1201. of this 
Ordinance shall be required to obtain Special Use Permit approval 
of the Board of Supervisors.*1 
 
h. 
Wireless communication facilities shall be setback 2 feet from 
all property lines for each 1 foot in height (including tower and 
antenna attachments but not to include architectural features for 
stealth design), unless co-locating on a building/structure 
(other than a wireless communication facility tower). Structures 
that are no greater in  height  than  the  maximum  permitted  
building  height  for  the respective zoning district may be 
permitted at a minimum 3 foot setback but shall not be located 
within a required front yard. 
 
i. 
The maximum diameter of antenna arrays shall be  eight  feet 
measured from circumference line to circumference line through 
the center of the tower structure but not including architectural 
features for stealth design such as tree limbs, palm fronds, 
and windmill blades. 
 
j. 
The maximum diameter of any microwave dish shall be one 
and one half meters (4.9 feet). 
 
k. 
All ground-mounted equipment associated with a wireless 
communication facility shall be screened visually and to 
mitigate noise. 
 
l. 
Unless no greater in height than the maximum permitted 
building height for the respective zoning district or designed 
in a stealth manner acceptable to staff of the Maricopa 
County Planning and Development Department, the tower 
structure for a new wireless communication facility shall be

TA2019001 
Page 5 of 7 
located at least 1,000 feet (radius) from any existing wireless 
communication facility tower structure. There is no separation 
requirement for facilities mounted on a building/structure (other 
than a wireless communication facility tower). A stealth design 
must observe reasonable site aspects to affect the stealth 
design. For example, stealth design as a tree must have live trees 
of the respective species imitated and of similar height located in 
proximity to the tower. 
 
m. 
Unless located within a building, a solid screen wall of a 
minimum six feet high, or to the height of intake/exhaust for 
HVAC and other equipment if higher, shall be constructed around 
the facility’s ground equipment, and shall visually screen all 
equipment and  mitigate noise. Associated panels for solar power 
generation do not require screening.*1 
 
n. 
Generators will only be permitted for emergency purposes. 
 
o. 
All ground equipment accessory to the Wireless Communication 
Facility shall be setback at least three feet (3’) from a lot line 
and shall not be located within a required front yard. 
 
2. 
In Commercial or Industrial zoning districts, wireless communication facilities 
are permitted subject to the following limitations:*1 
 
a. 
The wireless communication facility, if exceeding the height 
requirements of the zoning district in which it is located, shall be 
set back from a property line that abuts land located in a 
Rural or Residential Zoning District one foot for every one foot 
in height of the wireless communication facility (including tower 
and antenna attachments but not to include architectural features 
for stealth design), unless mounted on a building/structure other 
than a wireless communication facility tower. Notwithstanding 
the foregoing, the wireless communication facility shall be 
permitted to be located in alignment with the front of the 
principal building on the lot or parcel on which the wireless 
communication facility is erected. Structures that are no greater 
in height than the maximum permitted building height for  the 
respective zoning district may be permitted at a minimum 3 foot 
setback but shall not be located within a required front yard.*1 
 
b. 
The maximum height of a wireless communications facility 
including the base, platform and attached antennae, shall not 
exceed 120 feet above grade or 15’ above the height of the 
structure (other than a wireless communication facility tower) 
onto which it will be attached.*1

TA2019001 
Page 6 of 7 
c. 
There is no separation requirement for facilities in Commercial 
or Industrial zoning. 
 
d. 
There is no limit to the number of Wireless Communication 
Facilities (including microwave dishes) that may be located on 
a building/structure in Commercial or Industrial zoning. 
 
e. 
All standards of Article 1202.3.1.1 shall apply to facilities 
located within Commercial or Industrial zoning districts, unless 
specifically modified by the standards of Article 1202.3.1.2. 
 
3. 
Any wireless communications facility or wireless information system facility 
proposed to be located on any property, tower or pole developed primarily for 
the transport, receiving or distribution of electricity or as an electric utility station, 
or other utility compound such as a water or wastewater treatment facility, are 
subject to the following limitations: 
 
a. 
Such properties, towers or poles include, but are not limited to: 
 
1. 
Substations; 
2. 
Receiving stations; 
3. 
Generating stations; 
4. 
Switching yards; 
5. 
Storage yards; 
6. 
Communications facilities; and 
7. 
Existing 500kV, 345kV, 230kV, 115kV, 69kV transmission lines. 
 
b. 
The overall height of proposed new structures, antennas, attachments 
and appurtenances are limited to 125 feet or the height of the tallest 
existing structure, whichever is less. Antennas proposed to be attached 
onto structures (other  than a wireless communication facility tower) are 
limited to a maximum height of 15 feet above the height of the structure 
onto which it will be attached. 
 
c. 
Ground equipment may be located on another parcel, but must be 
setback at least three feet from any lot line. This does not apply to the 
item below. 
 
d. 
In addition 12kV transmission lines, guy/stub poles, light poles or 
towers may have close mount antennas (less than 12 inch radius and 
pole mounted equipment 
 
 
SECTION 1303.  
CONDITIONAL USE*1 
 
ARTICLE 1303.2 CONDITIONAL USES:  Conditional Uses shall be limited to the following:

TA2019001 
Page 7 of 7 
1303.2.1. 
Wireless Communication and information system facilities in accordance with 
Section 1202 of this Ordinance. 
 
Next Steps: 
 
A projected timeline for completion includes a tentative Board of Supervisors hearing date of 
October 7, 2020 with adopted language to become effective 30 days later, November 6, 2020. 
 
Recommendation: 
 
Staff recommends the Commission motion for Approval of TA2019001. 
 
 
Prepared by:  
Rachel Applegate, Senior Planner  
Reviewed by:  
Darren V. Gérard, AICP, Planning Manager 
 
 
Attachment: 
8/6/2020 ZIPPOR Packet (12 pages)

TA2019001 
Page 1 of 7 
Report to the Planning and Zoning Commission 
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department 
 
 
 
Case: 
TA2019001 –  Wireless Communication Facilities  
 
Meeting Date: 
August 6, 2020 (ZIPPOR) 
 
Supervisor District: 
All 
 
 
 
  
 
Applicant: 
Commission-initiated   
 
Requests: 
Text Amendment to amend Chapter 12, Wireless Communication 
Facilities; Section 1202, Article 1202.2 and 
 
 
 
Text Amendment to amend Chapter 13, Conditional Use, Section 
1303, Article 1303.2 to eliminate Conditional Use Permit of the 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO) 
 
EROP: 
This item is being processed through the County’s Enhanced 
Regulatory Outreach Program (EROP). This matter was discussed at 
the February 27, 2020 Stakeholder meeting. One representative from 
Smartlink attended the Stakeholder meeting.  
 
 
  
 
Municipal Comments: 
No comments received from EROP Notification process.  
 
Support/Opposition: 
No letters of opposition/suggested changes to the proposed text. 
(No new public comment since the February 27, 2020 Stakeholder 
meeting.) 
 
Recommendation: 
Initiate 
 
Project Summary: 
 
This text amendment would amend the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO), Chapter 
12 Wireless Communication Facilities, Section 1202, Article 1202.2 General Provisions to include 
language to reference federal requirements for eligible facilities requests.  
 
This text amendment will amend the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO), Chapter 13 
Conditional Use, Section 1303, Article 1303.2 to eliminate Conditional Use Permit.  
 
The purpose of this text amendment is to eliminate the need for a conditional use permit to 
construct wireless communication facilities, provided such facilities meet Federal guidelines for 
“eligible facilities requests” and meet Maricopa County zoning regulations. In such cases, this 
amendment would remove the conditional use permit application and review process from the 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance since it is an unnecessary step in the entitlement and 
development process. In instances where wireless communication facilities do not meet federal 
guidelines and do not meet the zoning standards outlined in Chapter 12, a special use permit will 
still be required.

TA2019001 
Page 2 of 7 
By removing the existing regulatory requirement for the noted conditional use permit application, 
this amendment would not create any additional regulations and would result in elimination of an 
existing but unnecessary regulations since the MCZO currently identifies these types of wireless 
communication facilities as by-right land use. Elimination of the conditional use permit application 
would allow property owners to proceed forward with building permits if all wireless 
communication standards can be met.  
 
Comments:   
After the Stakeholder meeting, staff received an e-mail from David G. Allen from American 
Tower Corporation regarding the proposed amended language for 1202.2.8. to clarify 
language regarding Eligible Facilities Request. See attached e-mail with modified language.   
 
Upon further discussion and further evaluation staff is recommending modified language as 
follows to address comment raised by American Tower: 
 
1202.2.8.  
Any proposed wireless communication facility that DOES NOT MEET 
FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ELIGIBLE FACILITIES REQUESTS AND 
UNLESS QUALIFYING AS AN ELIGIBLE FACILITES REQUST UNDER 
SECTION 6409 OF THE SPECTUM ACT – AS DEFINED BY 47 CFR 1.4001 
(B)(3) AS AMENDED – ANY PROPOSED WIRELESS COMMUNICATION 
FACILITY THAT cannot meet the standards outlined in Article 1202.3 of this 
Ordinance shall be required to obtain a Special Use Permit approval by the 
Board of Supervisors. A facility that meets the standards shall be processed 
administratively as a Conditional Use Permit prior to obtaining construction 
permits. Notwithstanding the foregoing, relief from the standards may be 
granted with approval of a Variance pursuant to Section 303 of this Ordinance. 
 
Proposed changes are shown in legislative edit format. 
  
SECTION 1202.  
WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES*1, *2 
 
ARTICLE 1202.1. PURPOSE: The principal purpose of this Section is to establish the 
locations 
in 
unincorporated 
Maricopa 
County 
where 
wireless 
communication and information system facilities may be located and the 
regulations that apply to their placement. The regulations contained 
herein are designed to recognize the need to accommodate the approval 
of those types of public utility uses while still recognizing the need to 
promote the public health, safety and general welfare of the citizens 
of Maricopa County. These regulations establish zoning standards that 
will protect the integrity of single-family neighborhoods and maintain the 
character, identity, and image of hillside areas. 
 
ARTICLE 1202.2.  GENERAL PROVISIONS 
 
1202.2.1 
Wireless communications facilities are permitted in all zoning districts  
 
subject to the provisions and standards outlined in this Section. 
 
1202.2.2 
Wireless communication facilities are permitted on individual lots of

TA2019001 
Page 3 of 7 
 
record, or on lease or easement areas described by metes and bounds 
 
of an area adequate to accommodate the tower structure and associated  
 
ground equipment for at least two carriers. 
 
1202.2.3 
The construction and location of wireless communication facilities and  
 
facilities for wireless information systems shall be subject to the  
 
standards contained in this regulation, unless otherwise noted herein. 
 
1202.2.4 
Wireless communication structures in excess of 199 feet in height are  
 
prohibited unless co-locating on an existing structure (other than a  
 
wireless communication facility tower) and unless there is a plan to  
 
mitigate interference with military and commercial aircraft and to mitigate  
 
disruption of avian migration and nesting and to preserve nighttime skies  
 
for astronomical observation, and shall be required to obtain Special  
 
Use Permit approval of the Board of Supervisors. Structures of 199 feet  
 
or less in height shall not have lighting, unless said lighting is specific to  
 
the purpose of a structure upon which a wireless communication facility is  
 
co-located. *1 
 
1202.2.5 
Facilities for public safety agencies are exempt from the requirements of  
 
this Section. 
 
1202.2.6 
The standards contained in this Section with regard to height, diameter,  
  
and design are concealment elements to ensure structures do not  
  
have an adverse visual impact or harm the public welfare. 
 
1202.2.7 
Any wireless communication facility properly permitted that existed as of  
 
June 10, 2015 shall be considered legal non-conforming with regard to  
 
This Section. Any change to a legal non-conforming wireless  
 
communication facility shall bring it into conformance with this Section or  
 
shall be subject to a Special Use Permit. 
 
1202.2.8.  
Any proposed wireless communication facility that DOES NOT MEET 
FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ELIGIBLE FACILITIES REQUESTS AND 
UNLESS QUALIFYING AS AN ELIGIBLE FACILITES REQUST UNDER 
SECTION 6409 OF THE SPECTUM ACT – AS DEFINED BY 47 CFR 1.4001 
(B)(3) AS AMENDED – ANY PROPOSED WIRELESS COMMUNICATION 
FACILITY THAT cannot meet the standards outlined in Article 1202.3 of this 
Ordinance shall be required to obtain a Special Use Permit approval by the 
Board of Supervisors. A facility that meets the standards shall be processed 
administratively as a Conditional Use Permit prior to obtaining construction 
permits. Notwithstanding the foregoing, relief from the standards may be 
granted with approval of a Variance pursuant to Section 303 of this Ordinance. 
 
ARTICLE 1202.3.  STANDARDS:   The   following   standards   shall   apply   to   Wireless 
Communication Facilities:*1

TA2019001 
Page 4 of 7 
1202.3.1.1 
Location: 
 
1. 
In Rural, Single-Family Residential or Multiple-Family Residential 
Zoning Districts, wireless communication facilities are permitted 
subject to the following limitations:*1 
 
a. 
The maximum height of a wireless communications facility 
including the base, platform and attached antennae shall not 
exceed 80 feet above grade or no greater than 15 feet above 
the 
height 
of 
the 
structure 
(other 
than 
a 
wireless 
communication facility tower) onto which it will be attached. 
 
b. 
Up to two wireless communication facilities may be 
mounted on a building and may include not more than two 
microwave antennae dishes with diameters of not more 
than one and one half meters (4.9 feet) each, and each 
being 15 feet or less in height as measured above  
c. 
the roofline so long as the supporting structure is screened.*1 
 
d. 
Towers and support structures shall have a maximum diameter of 
30 inches (2.5 feet). 
 
 
e. 
The color of a wireless communication facility shall be 
compatible 
with 
the 
surrounding 
environment. 
Exposed 
portions of the tower structure shall be non-reflective. *1 
 
f. 
Installation of a wireless communication facility shall avoid 
removal of mature trees and cacti unless a plan for their 
relocation is approved by the Department. *1 
 
g. 
Wireless communication facilities which are installed on properties 
on or within 500 feet of a property required to meet Hillside 
Development Standards of Chapter 12, Section 1201. of this 
Ordinance shall be required to obtain Special Use Permit approval 
of the Board of Supervisors.*1 
 
h. 
Wireless communication facilities shall be setback 2 feet from 
all property lines for each 1 foot in height (including tower and 
antenna attachments but not to include architectural features for 
stealth design), unless co-locating on a building/structure 
(other than a wireless communication facility tower). Structures 
that are no greater in  height  than  the  maximum  permitted  
building  height  for  the respective zoning district may be 
permitted at a minimum 3 foot setback but shall not be located 
within a required front yard.

TA2019001 
Page 5 of 7 
i. 
The maximum diameter of antenna arrays shall be  eight  feet 
measured from circumference line to circumference line through 
the center of the tower structure but not including architectural 
features for stealth design such as tree limbs, palm fronds, 
and windmill blades. 
 
j. 
The maximum diameter of any microwave dish shall be one 
and one half meters (4.9 feet). 
 
 
k. 
All ground-mounted equipment associated with a wireless 
communication facility shall be screened visually and to 
mitigate noise. 
 
l. 
Unless no greater in height than the maximum permitted 
building height for the respective zoning district or designed 
in a stealth manner acceptable to staff of the Maricopa 
County Planning and Development Department, the tower 
structure for a new wireless communication facility shall be 
located at least 1,000 feet (radius) from any existing wireless 
communication facility tower structure. There is no separation 
requirement for facilities mounted on a building/structure (other 
than a wireless communication facility tower). A stealth design 
must observe reasonable site aspects to affect the stealth 
design. For example, stealth design as a tree must have live trees 
of the respective species imitated and of similar height located in 
proximity to the tower. 
 
m. 
Unless located within a building, a solid screen wall of a 
minimum six feet high, or to the height of intake/exhaust for 
HVAC and other equipment if higher, shall be constructed around 
the facility’s ground equipment, and shall visually screen all 
equipment and  mitigate noise. Associated panels for solar power 
generation do not require screening.*1 
 
n. 
Generators will only be permitted for emergency purposes. 
 
o. 
All ground equipment accessory to the Wireless Communication 
Facility shall be setback at least three feet (3’) from a lot line 
and shall not be located within a required front yard. 
 
2. 
In Commercial or Industrial zoning districts, wireless communication facilities 
are permitted subject to the following limitations:*1 
 
a. 
The wireless communication facility, if exceeding the height 
requirements of the zoning district in which it is located, shall be 
set back from a property line that abuts land located in a

TA2019001 
Page 6 of 7 
Rural or Residential Zoning District one foot for every one foot 
in height of the wireless communication facility (including tower 
and antenna attachments but not to include architectural features 
for stealth design), unless mounted on a building/structure other 
than a wireless communication facility tower. Notwithstanding 
the foregoing, the wireless communication facility shall be 
permitted to be located in alignment with the front of the 
principal building on the lot or parcel on which the wireless 
communication facility is erected. Structures that are no greater 
in height than the maximum permitted building height for  the 
respective zoning district may be permitted at a minimum 3 foot 
setback but shall not be located within a required front yard.*1 
 
b. 
The maximum height of a wireless communications facility 
including the base, platform and attached antennae, shall not 
exceed 120 feet above grade or 15’ above the height of the 
structure (other than a wireless communication facility tower) 
onto which it will be attached.*1 
 
c. 
There is no separation requirement for facilities in Commercial 
or Industrial zoning. 
 
d. 
There is no limit to the number of Wireless Communication 
Facilities (including microwave dishes) that may be located on 
a building/structure in Commercial or Industrial zoning. 
 
e. 
All standards of Article 1202.3.1.1 shall apply to facilities 
located within Commercial or Industrial zoning districts, unless 
specifically modified by the standards of Article 1202.3.1.2. 
 
3. 
Any wireless communications facility or wireless information system facility 
proposed to be located on any property, tower or pole developed primarily for 
the transport, receiving or distribution of electricity or as an electric utility station, 
or other utility compound such as a water or wastewater treatment facility, are 
subject to the following limitations: 
 
a. 
Such properties, towers or poles include, but are not limited to: 
 
1. 
Substations; 
2. 
Receiving stations; 
3. 
Generating stations; 
4. 
Switching yards; 
5. 
Storage yards; 
6. 
Communications facilities; and 
7. 
Existing 500kV, 345kV, 230kV, 115kV, 69kV transmission lines.

TA2019001 
Page 7 of 7 
b. 
The overall height of proposed new structures, antennas, attachments 
and appurtenances are limited to 125 feet or the height of the tallest 
existing structure, whichever is less. Antennas proposed to be attached 
onto structures (other  than a wireless communication facility tower) are 
limited to a maximum height of 15 feet above the height of the structure 
onto which it will be attached. 
 
c. 
Ground equipment may be located on another parcel, but must be 
setback at least three feet from any lot line. This does not apply to the 
item below. 
 
d. 
In addition 12kV transmission lines, guy/stub poles, light poles or 
towers may have close mount antennas (less than 12 inch radius and 
pole mounted equipment 
 
 
SECTION 1303.  
CONDITIONAL USE*1 
 
ARTICLE 1303.2 CONDITIONAL USES:  Conditional Uses shall be limited to the following: 
 
1303.2.1. 
Wireless Communication and information system facilities in accordance with 
Section 1202 of this Ordinance. 
 
 
Recommendation: 
 
Staff recommends the Commission initiate TA2019001.  
 
Next Steps: 
 
If the Commission takes action to initiate the proposed text amendment, the amendment would 
be scheduled for the September 10, 2020 Planning and Zoning Commission. A projected timeline 
for completion includes a tentative Board of Supervisors hearing date of October 7, 2020 with 
adopted language 30 days after Board hearing for completion by November 6, 2020. 
 
 
 
Prepared by:  
Rachel Applegate, Senior Planner  
Reviewed by:  
Darren V. Gerard, AICP, Planning Manager 
 
 
Attachments: 
2/27/20 EROP Stakeholder Meeting sign in sheet (1 page) 
 
 
E-mail from American Tower Corporation (4 pages)

From:
David Allen
To:
Darren V. Gérard (PND); Patricia Ramsey
Cc:
Matthew Holm (PND); Rachel Applegate (PND)
Subject:
RE: TA2019001 re WCFs eligible facilities and elimination of CUP
Date:
Wednesday, May 13, 2020 2:31:04 PM
That would be suitable for us.
 
Thanks,
 
David G. Allen
Attorney, US Tower Legal
American Tower Corporation
10 Presidential Way
Woburn, MA 01801
Office: (781) 926-7180
Mobile: (508) 843-4837
david.allen@americantower.com
Find, Apply and Track Online with ON AIR Access.
Go Green! Please think about our environment before printing this email.
CONFIDENTIAL, PROPRIETARY and PRIVILEGED:  The information contained in this e-mail and any
attachments constitutes proprietary and confidential information of American Tower Corporation and its
affiliates.  This communication contains information that is proprietary and may be subject to the attorney-
client, work product or other legal privilege or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure even if received in
error.  The communication is intended for the use of the addressee only.  If you are not the intended
recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is
strictly prohibited.  If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify us by
return e-mail and destroy any copies, electronic, paper or otherwise, which you may have of this
communication.  Thank you for your cooperation
 
From: Darren V. Gérard (PND) <Darren.Gerard@Maricopa.Gov> 
Sent: Wednesday, May 13, 2020 5:26 PM
To: David Allen <David.Allen@AmericanTower.com>; Patricia Ramsey
<patricia.ramsey@smartlinkllc.com>
Cc: Matthew Holm (PND) <Matthew.Holm@Maricopa.Gov>; Rachel Applegate (PND)
<Rachel.Applegate@Maricopa.Gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: TA2019001 re WCFs eligible facilities and elimination of CUP
 
What about:?
 
1202.2.8.
Unless qualifying as an Eligible Facilities Request under Section 6409 of the Spectrum Act—as
defined by 47 CFR 1.40001(b)(3) as amended— any proposed wireless communication facility that
cannot meet the standards outlined in Article 1202.3 of this Ordinance shall be required to obtain a
Special Use Permit approval by  the Board of Supervisors.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, relief from
the standards may be granted with approval of a Variance pursuant to Section 303 of this Ordinance.
 
I don’t think we need any mention of administrative process because we’re deleting the CUP and

you’ll go straight to building permit.  Thoughts?
 
Darren V. Gérard, AICP
Planning Services Manager
Planning & Development
602-506-7139
Darren.Gerard@maricopa.gov
 
From: David Allen <David.Allen@AmericanTower.com> 
Sent: Wednesday, May 13, 2020 2:01 PM
To: Darren V. Gérard (PND) <Darren.Gerard@Maricopa.Gov>
Cc: Patricia Ramsey <patricia.ramsey@smartlinkllc.com>
Subject: TA2019001 re WCFs eligible facilities and elimination of CUP
 
Hi Darren,
 
I hope you are doing well.  Below please find the County’s proposed change to Sec. 1202.2.8 along
with American Tower’s proposed language for this section.  Please let me know if you have any
questions or concerns, or if you would like to discuss further.
 
 
1202.2.8. Any proposed wireless communication facility that does not qualify as an Eligible Facilities
Request under Section 6409 of the Spectrum Act—as defined by 47 CFR 1.40001(b)(3) as amended
—and cannot meet the standards outlines in Article 1202.3 of this Ordinance shall be required to
obtain a Special Use Permit approval by  the Board of Supervisors.  A facility that qualifies as an
Eligible Facilities Request under 47 CFR 1.40001(b)(3) shall be processed administratively prior to
obtaining construction permits.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, relief from the standards may be
granted with approval of a Variance pursuant to Section 303 of this Ordinance.
 
 
Thanks,
 
David
 
David G. Allen
Attorney, US Tower Legal
American Tower Corporation
10 Presidential Way

Woburn, MA 01801
Office: (781) 926-7180
Mobile: (508) 843-4837
david.allen@americantower.com
Find, Apply and Track Online with ON AIR Access.
Go Green! Please think about our environment before printing this email.
CONFIDENTIAL, PROPRIETARY and PRIVILEGED:  The information contained in this e-mail and any
attachments constitutes proprietary and confidential information of American Tower Corporation and its
affiliates.  This communication contains information that is proprietary and may be subject to the attorney-
client, work product or other legal privilege or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure even if received in
error.  The communication is intended for the use of the addressee only.  If you are not the intended
recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is
strictly prohibited.  If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify us by
return e-mail and destroy any copies, electronic, paper or otherwise, which you may have of this
communication.  Thank you for your cooperation
 
-----Original Appointment-----
From: Darren V. Gérard (PND) <Darren.Gerard@Maricopa.Gov> 
Sent: Thursday, April 23, 2020 3:54 PM
To: Darren V. Gérard (PND); David Allen
Subject: [EXTERNAL] FW: GoToMeeting Invitation - TA2019001 re WCFs eligible facilities and
elimination of CUP
When: Tuesday, April 28, 2020 11:35 AM-12:35 PM (UTC-07:00) Arizona.
Where:
 
 
 
-----Original Appointment-----
From: Darren V. Gérard (PND) <Darren.Gerard@Maricopa.Gov> 
Sent: Thursday, April 23, 2020 12:31 PM
To: Darren V. Gérard (PND); Patricia Ramsey; Rachel Applegate (PND)
Subject: GoToMeeting Invitation - TA2019001 re WCFs eligible facilities and elimination of CUP
When: Tuesday, April 28, 2020 11:35 AM-12:35 PM (UTC-07:00) Arizona.
Where:
 
TA re WCFs 
Tue, Apr 28, 2020 11:35 AM - 12:35 PM (MST)
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