Phoenix Planning Commission approves industrial zone change for Happy Valley Road site

On April 10, 2025, the Maricopa County Planning and Zoning Commission convened to discuss several zoning changes and special use permits that could significantly impact local development. The meeting highlighted two key cases that reflect the ongoing transition of land use in the region.

The first case involved a zone change to Industrial 2 IUPD for an 8.9-acre site located at the southwest corner of Happy Valley Road and Seventh Avenue in the Deer Valley area. This area is designated for industrial use in the city’s general plan, and the change aims to resolve existing zoning violations related to current storage yard operations. The commission noted that there was no public opposition to the proposal, and the recommendation for approval included several conditions to ensure compliance with local regulations. The approval process is expected to streamline the transition of the site to its intended industrial use, aligning with the broader trend of industrial development in the surrounding area.

The second case discussed was a special use permit for a limited-use storage yard on a 1.8-acre site in the Chandler Heights area. This proposal, which involves the storage of empty commercial trucks and waste bins, faced some scrutiny due to its location within a residentially designated area. While there were letters of support from some community members, there were also concerns expressed by the town of Gilbert, which indicated it would not approve such a use within its jurisdiction. The applicant presented a detailed site plan and operational narrative to address these concerns, emphasizing that the site would not engage in on-site compaction of waste and would maintain compliance with local zoning requirements.

The commission ultimately voted unanimously to recommend approval for both cases, reflecting a commitment to facilitating industrial growth while addressing community concerns. As Maricopa County continues to evolve, these decisions underscore the balancing act between development and community interests, setting the stage for future discussions on land use and zoning in the region. The next steps will involve further administrative processes to finalize the approvals and ensure that the conditions set forth are met.