Published on April 23, 2025
The City of Tucson is working to expand housing diversity through a new middle housing initiative. Middle housing, which includes duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes, represents an opportunity to address our community's needs by providing more attainable and diverse housing options.
The City is evaluating several approaches to implement these housing regulations, particularly which locations would be eligible for middle housing development. Community input is essential to this process. Please join us at an upcoming meeting to get informed and contribute your perspective on these changes.
Background
In May 2024, Governor Katie Hobbs signed House Bill 2721 into law. The bill requires cities with more than 75,000 residents to allow middle housing on all single-family residential lots within one mile of the downtown core (with the specific area still being defined). The law also states that middle housing must be reviewed under the same standards and procedures as single-family homes. For any new developments larger than 10 acres, at least 20% must be middle housing. Cities are required to adopt these changes by January 1, 2026.
During an April 22, 2025 study session, Planning and Development Services (PDSD) staff presented options for conforming with H.B. 2721 to Mayor and Council, who then directed staff to begin public engagement on potential Unified Development Code (UDC) amendments. You can review materials from the April 22, 2025, Mayor and Council study session.
PDSD invites you to join us at one of three public meetings this month to provide feedback on the potential options presented to Mayor and Council.
In-Person Meeting
Virtual Meeting