Whether looking out the window, enjoying the yard or strolling the neighborhood, mountain views are a much loved feature of Paradise Gardens.
A second story would block the view and compromise the privacy this homeowner currently enjoys.
Height Matters in Paradise Gardens!
Many Paradise Gardens residents purchased homes with our neighborhood’s unique character in mind. And Paradise Gardens property values are climbing, largely due to its desirable character. But many residents are concerned that two story home additions may block views, alter neighborhood character, and compromise privacy. Single story heights are key to neighborhood character, preserving yard and home privacy, and the mountain views we enjoy. If our residents do not consider effects of second stories and lofts on neighborhood character, privacy, and views when planning home additions, these precious qualities could be lost. Unfortunately, personal conversation with a neighbor to raise these issues may not be effective.
The Paradise Gardens Subdivision Declarations of Restrictions, filed with Maricopa County at development in 1958 - and still now legal - specifically limit heights to one story precisely to ensure privacy and preserve views. All property owners received a copy of the Paradise Gardens Declarations of Restrictions when they purchased their homes. However, the City of Phoenix cannot enforce Maricopa County rules when they issue building permits. An individual resident can take legal action to enforce a restriction, but that cost is usually prohibitive.
There is a solution, however.
About a City of Phoenix Zoning Overlay
The City of Phoenix Planning Department is sympathetic to our dilemma. They strongly support efforts of established neighborhoods to preserve character. The Department appreciates our unique neighborhood, and suggests a zoning overlay to help preserve our character.
Here’s how it works. The neighborhood asks the City to establish a zoning overlay. The overlay identifies a characteristic - in our case a height decided by the neighborhood - and allows the City to honor the intentions of our Paradise Gardens Declarations of Restrictions concerning height when they review plans and approve building permits. The overlay would only affect future building permits. It will not affect the few homes that already have second stories or lofts.
Most of us have a vested interest in protecting our neighborhood’s value based on its character. A zoning overlay would help prevent construction that infringes on our privacy and compromises our neighborhood.
Next Step: Your Opinion
The City of Phoenix wants to know how many property owners in the Paradise Gardens neighborhood support a zoning overlay that limits heights to one story. If you are a property owner, please fill out the following survey. We will use your name, address, yes/no vote, and comment to give the City an accurate report. No one will further share this information.
To discuss the implications of a zoning overlay further with a neighbor or a Phoenix Gardens Neighborhood Association board member, reach out to ParadiseGardensPhx@gmail.com.