Pima County Land Use Regulations

Land use regulations mandate development standards for on-site solar energy, including solar roofs, and utility scale renewable energy systems intended for off-site consumption. Utility scale renewable energy systems require conditional use permit if the site is within conservation categories. Rainwater and stormwater harvesting systems are also contained within these regulations. Stormwater harvesting is recognized as green infrastructure and for its ability to lessen urban heat island; improve air quality; conserve water; provide habitat and riparian corridors; and reduce pollution and burden on public stormwater control structures. The land use regulations mandate design, installation and use of stormwater harvesting systems and reference the Regional Flood Control District Manual and the Low Impact Development-Green Infrastructure Guidance Manual as applicable guidance documents.

Trail-oriented development can be used to encourage economic development and small-scale residential development for those that recreate on county trails. The land use regulations require the elements of green building, sustainability, water harvesting, and green infrastructure / low impact development are considered in project design and construction of trail-oriented development.