How do I check zoning and future development plans around a house?
Start with the city or county planning and zoning department website where the property is located. Most have online maps showing current zoning designations and sometimes planned developments. You can also visit or call the planning department directly to ask about upcoming projects or zone change applications near a specific address. Check city council meeting agendas and minutes for development proposals. The county assessor website shows parcel information and can help identify who owns nearby vacant land. Driving the neighborhood and looking for public hearing signs or new construction activity gives additional clues. For unincorporated areas, Maricopa County handles zoning. Local neighborhood associations or online community groups sometimes discuss planned changes as well.
More on neighborhoods and location
- How do I check crime rates and safety in a neighborhood?
- How good are the schools near this house?
- How far is too far for a Phoenix commute and where does traffic back up?
- East Valley vs West Valley, which side of Phoenix should I buy in?
- How do I check for airport noise from Sky Harbor or Luke AFB?
- What are the best Phoenix suburbs for families?
Meet Jon Hegreness

Jon Hegreness
REALTOR / Associate Broker · Howe Realty
AZ License BR540940000
Full-time Phoenix North Valley REALTOR and Associate Broker with 24 years in Arizona residential real estate. A negotiator and problem solver who works the way you would want a friend in the business to work: direct, on your side, and steady through the parts that get complicated.
