Council updates code to centralize right-of-way permits, plans implementation by Jan. 1

Prescott Valley, Ariz. — The Town Council unanimously approved Ordinance 2025-963 Sept. 25 to update chapter 16 of the town code, standardize right-of-way permit procedures and apply the municipal fee schedule to right-of-way permits.

Staff told the council the changes consolidate language so that right-of-way use permits are processed in the same department and permit desk as other permits, eliminating confusion where applicants were directed between public works and the permit desk. The update adds definitions and engineering standards and revises permits and off-site improvement standards in chapter 16.

Staff said the code update is intended to streamline the permitting process in line with the town’s strategic plan and estimated implementation beginning Jan. 1. The council opened a public hearing; no members of the public spoke on the item. Vice Mayor Zircher asked whether right-of-way permits would move from public works to development services; staff confirmed the change places permit processing at the development services permit desk to reduce applicant confusion.

The council voted to read the ordinance by title on two occasions and placed it for final passage; the motion passed unanimously. The ordinance will be effective 30 days after passage, per the ordinance language.

Why it matters: Consolidating permit intake and applying a consistent fee schedule changes the applicant experience for construction and right-of-way work and could affect costs and timelines for developers and contractors working in the town.