Tempe Junction Rezoning & EIS Process Guide

Land Use and Zoning Arizona 3 Minutes Read · published February 21, 2026 Flag of Arizona

This guide explains the rezoning hearing process and environmental review implications for projects in Tempe Junction, Arizona. It describes typical steps from application to council decision, public notice and appeals, and highlights where environmental impact review (EIS/NEPA) may become relevant for projects with federal involvement. Use this article to understand timelines, the responsible city offices, how to prepare submissions for hearings, and where to find official forms and code citations for Tempe Junction.

Public participation is a formal part of rezoning hearings and you should register early to speak.

Overview of Rezoning Hearings

Rezoning (zoning map amendment) usually begins with an application to the City of Tempe planning office and proceeds through public notice, a Planning and Zoning Commission hearing, and a final City Council decision. Applicants should expect staff review, neighborhood outreach requirements and posted/public notices before hearings. The City of Tempe Planning pages list procedures and application guidance Planning & Development[1]. The controlling municipal ordinance text is available in the Tempe Code of Ordinances Tempe Municipal Code[2].

  • Typical public notice period: not specified on the cited page.
  • Required submittals: rezoning application, site plan, legal description and fees as listed on the city forms page.
  • Responsible office: Community Development / Planning Services (contact via city Planning & Development page).

When an EIS or Environmental Review Applies

Most municipal rezonings require local environmental review under city procedures; a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) under NEPA is only required when a federal agency action or federal funding triggers NEPA. Tempe’s planning pages explain local environmental review processes and referral procedures to federal/state agencies where applicable Planning & Development[1].

NEPA EIS is triggered by federal involvement, not by municipal rezoning alone.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of zoning and land-use violations in Tempe is handled by the Community Development Department and code enforcement units; specific penalties and fine schedules are set out in the municipal code or by administrative resolution.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes are provided by municipal code; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, administrative orders, permit revocation and court action are referenced as enforcement tools in municipal practice.
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: Community Development / Code Enforcement accepts complaints via the city site and the Planning & Development contact page.
If you receive a notice of violation, follow the appeal steps quickly to preserve rights.

Applications & Forms

  • Rezoning (Zoning Map Amendment) application: see the city Planning & Development forms and submittal instructions Planning & Development[1].
  • Fees: fees are published on the city forms page; if not listed there, specific fee amounts are not specified on the cited page.
  • Submission method: online or in-person submittal instructions are on the Planning & Development page.

Action Steps

  • 1. Early: consult Planning Services for pre-application advice and neighborhood outreach requirements.
  • 2. Prepare: complete the Zoning Map Amendment application, required plans and environmental materials.
  • 3. File: submit application and pay fees per the city forms page.
  • 4. Hearings: attend Planning Commission and City Council hearings; present evidence and public outreach results.
  • 5. Appeal: if denied, follow municipal code appeal routes within the applicable time limit (see municipal code).

FAQ

How long does a rezoning hearing take?
Timeline varies; initial staff review and notice periods apply and exact durations are not specified on the cited pages.
Will an EIS be required for my project?
An EIS under NEPA is required only if federal funding or federal action is involved; municipal environmental review applies otherwise.
Where do I file complaints about code violations?
File complaints with City of Tempe Code Enforcement via the Community Development contact channels listed on the city site.

How-To

  1. Contact Planning Services for pre-application guidance and confirm submittal requirements.
  2. Assemble the rezoning application package: application form, site plan, legal descriptions, environmental attachments and fees.
  3. Submit the application according to the Planning & Development instructions and schedule any required neighborhood meetings.
  4. Attend the Planning Commission hearing, present materials, and respond to staff and public comments.
  5. If necessary, attend the City Council hearing and, if denied, file an appeal per municipal code procedures.

Key Takeaways

  • Engage Planning Services early to reduce surprises at hearings.
  • Public notice and outreach are core parts of the rezoning timeline.
  • NEPA EIS is only for projects with federal involvement; local review still applies.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Tempe Planning & Development - procedures and application guidance
  2. [2] Tempe Municipal Code - zoning and enforcement provisions

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