Safford Council moves forward on new rezoning requests amid upcoming Casita law

June 19, 2025 | Graham County, Arizona

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Safford Council moves forward on new rezoning requests amid upcoming Casita law

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

In a recent Graham County Planning and Zoning meeting, significant discussions centered on land use and zoning changes that could reshape local housing options. The meeting, held on June 18, 2025, highlighted a growing trend of developers seeking to rezone larger properties into smaller lots to meet the increasing demand for housing.

One of the key proposals involved a request for a minimum lot size reduction from 20,000 square feet to half an acre for several properties. This move reflects a broader pattern where realtors and developers are acquiring existing homes and splitting the land to create additional building lots. As property availability diminishes, this strategy aims to maximize the use of existing land, particularly in areas with access to water and sewer services.

The meeting also addressed specific rezoning requests, including one from Joe Hernandez to convert a 1.1-acre parcel on South Church Street into single-family residential lots for a new manufactured home. Another request from Leslie and Michael Orr sought to rezone a portion of their 3.5-acre property on Safford Bryce Road to create a half-acre lot for development. Both proposals were approved to be discussed in the next meeting.

A notable legislative change discussed was the introduction of the "Casita Law," which will take effect on January 1, 2026. This law allows homeowners to build additional dwelling units on their properties without the usual zoning restrictions, significantly impacting how residential areas can develop. Under this law, homeowners can potentially add multiple units, depending on the size of their lot and existing septic systems. This shift could lead to increased rental opportunities but also raises concerns about neighborhood character and infrastructure strain.

The meeting concluded with a review of previous approvals, including a rezoning request that had been modified to allow for more space for development. The ongoing changes in zoning regulations and the introduction of new laws signal a pivotal moment for housing in Graham County, as officials and residents alike prepare for the implications of these developments on community growth and housing availability.

Converted from Graham County P&Z 06/18/25 meeting on June 19, 2025
Link to Full Meeting

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