Commissioners discuss need for training on "casita"/ADU rules, plan holiday breakfast; staff reports recent approvals

Commissioners of the Graham County Planning and Zoning Commission discussed uncertainty about state "casita" (accessory dwelling unit) requirements and agreed to seek training from the county attorney and invite the Board of Adjustment to a future meeting.

A commissioner said the commission is "not totally clear" on how the casita provisions apply locally and emphasized the need for rules in place by Jan. 1, 2026. One commissioner described confusion over how many separate dwelling units could be added on a lot under the law and noted septic and water availability as limiting factors.

The chair said he would invite the county attorney to provide short training and that the county attorney had indicated a civil deputy was not yet in place. The chair also proposed holding a December breakfast meeting and using that session to host the training if possible.

During other business, staff member Steve reported that two cases from the previous month—the rezone and a use permit on South Barney Lane (a duplex proposal across from the Mount Graham Market)—were approved by the Board of Supervisors.

Commissioners also mentioned the Board of Adjustment was holding a hearing the following day. A commissioner referenced a court case elsewhere (Scottsdale) about local limits on accessory units as an example of ongoing legal challenges in other jurisdictions.

Next steps: the chair will request training from the county attorney and invite the Board of Adjustment; commissioners aim to have clearer guidance before the Jan. 1, 2026 rule deadline.