Apply for a Grading Exception

A Grading Exception may be utilized when the intent of the grading standards of the zoning code section 22.10.C can be met by other means and when strict application of the standard grading requirements could require unnecessary disturbance to the land, would create a hazard to adjacent property, would be materially detrimental to persons residing in the vicinity or would be materially detrimental to the public welfare in general.

Continue below for the Grading Exception process. 

Instructions for standard Grading Permits can be found at this link. 

Process

Step 1.Review the Grading Exception requirements

  • Review the Grading Exception criteria in Section 22.10.C of the Zoning Code. 

Step 2.Submit a pre-application online to discuss your request with staff

  • All items must be submitted in PDF format.
  • Submit your pre-application through the customer portal with all of the required contents from the Pre-application Guide(PDF, 145KB). You can find the pre-application by going to "Planning and Zoning" - "Pre-application."
  • If you are new to the Town's customer portal, you will need to sign-up first. A short video about the customer portal is available HERE.
  • Applications received by Wednesday at 5 PM will be scheduled for a meeting with the Development Review Committee (DRC) the following Thursday. Applications received after the deadline will be scheduled 2 Thursdays from the date received.
  • There are no fees associated with a pre-application review.
  • Upon receipt of your pre-application, staff will contact you with a time and date to meet with the Development Review Committee (DRC). The purpose of the DRC meeting is to introduce your project to town staff.
  • After the meeting, staff will provide preliminary comments regarding process and code compliance.

Step 3.Submit a formal application online

  • All items must be provided in PDF format. 
  • Submit a formal application online through the customer portal with all required contents from the Grading Exception Guide(PDF, 239KB). You can find the application by going to "Planning and Zoning" - "Grading Exception."
  • All fees must be paid upon submitting. Staff review will not begin until all fees are paid. Fees may be paid online. 

Step 4.Staff review

  • All applicable departments will review your submittal for code compliance.
  • Staff comments will be provided within 20 working days of a complete submittal. A revised application addressing staff comments may be required and can be resubmitted online. Additional revised submittals may be necessary if code issues are not adequately addressed. 

Step 5.Present and answer questions at the Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing

  • Grading Exception applications require consideration by the Planning and Zoning Commission
  • Staff will provide a report regarding General Plan and Zoning Code compliance and any neighborhood mitigation measures prior to the meeting
  • The general public, including neighbors, will similarly be provided an opportunity to speak during the public hearing.

  • Both staff and the applicant are required to present to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Please click HERE for more information and to prepare for your presentation.

Step 6.Present and answer questions at the Town Council Public Hearing 

  • Following a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission, Town Council will consider the application
  • Staff will provide a report regarding General Plan and Zoning Code compliance and any neighborhood mitigation measures prior to the meeting
  • The general public, including neighbors, will similarly be provided an opportunity to speak during the public hearing
  • Both staff and the applicant are required to present to the Town Council. Please click HERE for more information and to prepare for your presentation.

Step 7.Next steps

  • If not processed concurrently, subsequent to Town Council approval, a development review application is required. Click HERE for more information about that process.

Contact Us

Phone

520-229-4800

Email

planning@orovalleyaz.gov

Location

Planning Department
11000 N. La Cañada Drive
85737
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