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Goodyear adopts ADU zoning changes to comply with new state law
Summary
Council unanimously adopted an ordinance (7‑0) updating city zoning to align with state law on accessory dwelling units: one attached and one detached ADU allowed per single‑family lot, with a third detached ADU on >1‑acre lots only if deed‑restricted as affordable (≤80% AMI); ADUs are barred inside the Luke vicinity box and HOAs may still restrict them.
The Goodyear City Council on Dec. 16 unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 2024‑1616 to amend zoning regulations for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), aligning local code with state law passed during the 2024 legislative session.
Planning Manager Christian Williams told the council the amendment implements House Bill 2720 and related changes to Title 9 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. Under the adopted rules, single‑family lots may have one attached ADU and one detached ADU; lots larger than one acre may allow a third detached ADU only if it is deed‑restricted or restricted by development agreement to households earning at or below 80% of area median income. Setbacks for ADUs are five feet and the typical maximum height is 30 feet.
Williams explained that a statewide 'vicinity box' around Luke Air Force Base (the transcript term used) prevents ADU construction inside that area; the city’s ordinance mirrors that restriction. He also emphasized that state law prevents cities from imposing additional parking requirements for ADUs and noted that homeowners’ associations (HOAs) may still restrict ADUs in their private covenants.
Council members asked whether residents could convert sheds without permits and how parking and building‑code inspections would be handled. Williams said ADUs intended for occupancy must obtain building permits and meet life‑safety requirements; converting sheds without permits is not advised. He also said that if an HOA imposes parking or other restrictions, residents must follow the HOA rules even if the city permits ADUs.
Council approved the ordinance 7‑0. Staff and Planning & Zoning recommended approval to ensure the city has an enforceable local ordinance in place before the state rules would take effect nationwide, the staff presentation said.
