R-3 Zoning in Phoenix, AZ

[Jessica Jay-Maleski]

Hello! I am a little embarrassed to ask this but after researching R-3 Zoning, I have a few questions:

Information:

     - I have a lot, nearly 6k square feet, in Phoenix AZ and it is zoned R-3

     - It currently has two duplexes on it for a total of four units

     - At least one of the units is an addition

     - I am uncertain as to the permits, however I did purchase it this way and there were no questions or issues in inspection or appraisal

     - I am considering adding another unit or two, or at the very least expanding a unit to add another bedroom.

Questions:

     - In reading the coding, I am not sure where I land (Conventional or Planned Residential Development - I am assuming conventional but unsure of the distinction)

     - I am a little confused as to whether the rules for dwelling unit density are specific to number of units or number of structures

Any feedback would be so very appreciated!

[Michael Hacker]

As Greg mentioned the zoning stipulates the number of units / acre, but I believe it is more than 3 in Phoenix.   I see that you are a realtor so if you check Monsoon, it will tell you the 'city zone'.  We're actually building on an R-3 lot right now, 9,250 sf, and we were capped at 3 so it was more like 12 units / acre.  I'm thinking that you are maxed out already and may have some units that were added without permits.  Sometimes it's easiest to just go downtown to the building department and ask for residential site planning.  They can tell you exactly what you can do.  Many times the ability to build more units is restricted more by parking requirements than zoning.  You can also check historical permits on the 3rd floor.  Good luck -