The policy changes affect landscaping rules for residential and commercial properties, water efficiency standards, and regulations for big water users.
Phoenix is overhauling water standards for new development in the city as groundwater shortages and shrinking Colorado River supplies squeeze the Valley.
After the resolution passed, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said,"It's important for us to continue leading in this area and make sure we secure our water supply." The city will implement the new water policies as"stipulations" in rezoning cases, meaning the city allows developers to move ahead with their projects so long as they abide by the water conservation policies.
City Council is expected to formally codify the water policies as enforceable ordinances and building codes in the future, although Campbell said the timeline was unclear and depends on how long it takes staff to grasp what measures are practical and realistic to mandate. Changes to city ordinances and building codes would have to go through a public comment process first.
"Why have they been foot dragging?" Champion said."Am I happy they did something? Sure. I feel like the City of Phoenix is Groundhog Day. ... The same things that were brought up 10-plus years ago are now the new and shiny objects .
Some of the residential changes include requiring developers to get their homes certified by a third-party as water efficient. Federal certifications such as EPA WaterSense mean the homes would use on average 30% less water.
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