The City of Phoenix Hillside Ordinance was adopted in 1972 to preserve the visual integrity and character of hillside areas, and to ensure development is safe and functional while minimizing disturbances and scarring to the sensitive desert soils and their unique varnish. The type, scale, and specific natural environment of each development project must be evaluated individually for how it integrates with its natural adjacent surroundings to maintain the integrity of the natural assets the are visible and valuable for the entire city.
Phoenix requires the review of hillside plans for any project in a hillside development area, i.e. those properties having a 10% or greater slope. Staff reviews the height of the building over natural grade, lot coverage and the area of disturbance outside of the roof.
Please email pdd.hillside@phoenix.gov for all inquiries on hillside lots including scheduling an appointment with a Hillside reviewer.
Please note: Hillside appointments cannot be made through the Development Center Appointment Scheduling portal.
Staff can review your conceptual plans prior to you submitting a formal Hillside/Grading and Drainage Plan. The Hillside Fact Finding process is informational only. No approvals would be granted with this review.
Fees:
The following links to the sections in the Hillside Ordinance and Zoning Sections that regulate Hillside Developent Areas.
Hillside plans are classified as civil plans and are are reviewed under the civil review process. For more information check the resources below: