Tucson for Everyone

Introduction

Tucson for Everyone is very enthusiastic about the proposed CODE Tucson ‘26 effort, which we view as a much-needed step to bring our outdated and opaque code into the present. We are excited to see the Unified Development Code (UDC) made simpler, clearer, more consistent, more navigable, and more reflective of our community’s priorities. The draft redlines proposed on May 28 identify and resolve many longstanding issues with the UDC. However, they also leave many significant issues unaddressed and—in some cases—introduce new inconsistencies. This document summarizes our feedback for Code Tucson ‘26 and summarizes the changes in the attached code edits.

Importance

The current UDC contains many errors from incorrect references to unclear wording to grammar issues.. This culminates in a code that is difficult to comprehend and use as a tool for regulating and guiding development. Our proposed changes aim to resolve issues and errors in the UDC that remain untouched.

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In addition to greater accuracy and clarity we are also proposing several changes to policy. These are designed to align with transportation and environmental goals and allow for greater flexibility for residential development. A complete explanation of all proposed policy changes can be found further in this article. Our proposed UDC improvements also deliver progress on 11 of our residents’ 14 priorities identified in Plan Tucson.

These changes greatly foster inclusive, transparent, efficient, and equitable city governance (Goal 1)

These changes greatly support the development of an equitable community (Goal 2)

These changes greatly expand affordable and accessible housing options (Goal 5)

These changes greatly ensure comprehensive and inclusive land use planning for a well-designed, vibrant community (Goal 14)

These changes greatly preserve, protect, and enhance natural ecosystems (Goal 9)

These changes help make Tucson a leader in carbon reduction and resiliency to extreme heat and climate impacts (Goal 3)

These changes help improve health, wellness, and safety across the community (Goal 4)

These changes help promote the responsible management and use of water () promote a clean community and reduce the harmful effects of pollutants in our environment () strengthen the local and regional economy to provide opportunities for all Tucsonans to thrive () expand and improve access to high-quality transportation choices, enhance safety, and improve the condition of city streets and other infrastructure ()