HomeMy WebLinkAboutPackets - Planning and Zoning Commission (189)
AGENDA
ORO VALLEY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
April 5, 2022
ORO VALLEY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11000 N. LA CAÑADA DRIVE
The Town has modified its public comment procedures in the newly renovated Town Council Chambers. For more details, please see
the instructions for in person and/or virtual speakers at the end of the agenda.
To watch and/or listen to the public meeting online, please visit
https://www.orovalleyaz.gov/town/departments/town-clerk/meetings-and-agendas
Executive Sessions – Upon a vote of the majority of the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Commission may
enter into Executive Sessions pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes §38-431.03 (A)(3) to obtain legal advice on
matters listed on the Agenda.
REGULAR SESSION AT OR AFTER 6:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CALL TO AUDIENCE - at this time, any member of the public is allowed to address the Commission on any
issue not listed on today’s agenda. Pursuant to the Arizona open meeting law, individual Commission
members may ask Town staff to review the matter, ask that the matter be placed on a future agenda, or
respond to criticism made by speakers. However, the Commission may not discuss or take legal action on
matters raised during "Call to Audience." In order to speak during "Call to Audience", please specify what
you wish to discuss when completing the blue speaker card.
COUNCIL LIAISON COMMENTS
REGULAR SESSION AGENDA
1.WELCOME NEW COMMISSIONER, JOE NICHOLS
2.REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE MARCH 1, 2022 REGULAR SESSION MEETING MINUTES
3.PUBLIC HEARING: DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING A PROPOSED ZONING
CODE AMENDMENT TO THE STANDARDS FOR BANNER AND WINDOW SIGNS (SECTION 28) AND
OTHER RELATED SECTIONS INCLUDING DEFINITIONS (CHAPTER 31)
PLANNING UPDATE (INFORMATIONAL ONLY)
ADJOURNMENT
POSTED: 3/29/2022 at 5:00 pm by pp
POSTED: 3/29/2022 at 5:00 pm by pp
When possible, a packet of agenda materials as listed above is available for public inspection at least 24 hours prior to the Commission meeting in
the Town Clerk's Office between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Town of Oro Valley complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If any person with a disability needs any type of accommodation,
please notify the Town Clerk’s Office at least five days prior to the Commission meeting at 229-4700.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
The Town has modified its public comment procedures for its public bodies to allow for limited remote/virtual comment via Zoom. The public may
provide comments remotely only on items posted as required Public Hearings, provided the speaker registers 24 hours prior to the meeting. For all
other items, the public may complete a blue speaker card to be recognized in person by the Chair, according to all other rules and procedures.
Written comments can also be emailed to Recording Secretary Jeanna Ancona at jancona@orovalleyaz.gov, for distribution to the Planning and
Zoning Commission prior to the meeting. Further instructions to speakers are noted below.
INSTRUCTIONS TO IN-PERSON SPEAKERS
Members of the public shall be allowed to speak on posted public hearings and during Call to Audience when attending the meeting in person. The
public may be allowed to speak on other posted items on the agenda at the discretion of the Chair.
If you wish to address the Board on any item(s) on this agenda, please complete a blue speaker card located on the Agenda table at the back of
the room and give it to the Recording Secretary. Please indicate on the blue speaker card which item number and topic you wish to speak on, or, if
you wish to speak during Call to Audience, please specify what you wish to discuss.
Please step forward to the podium when the Chair calls on you to address the Commission.
For the record, please state your name and whether or not you are a Town resident.1.Speak only on the issue currently being discussed by the Board. You will only be allowed to address the Commission one time regarding
the topic being discussed.2.
Please limit your comments to 3 minutes.3.During Call to Audience, you may address the Commission on any matter that is not on the agenda.4.Any member of the public speaking, must speak in a courteous and respectful manner to those present. 5.
INSTRUCTIONS TO VIRTUAL SPEAKERS FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS
Members of the public may attend the meeting virtually and request to speak virtually on any agenda item that is listed as a Public Hearing. If you
wish to address the Board virtually during any listed Public Hearing, please complete the online speaker form by clicking here
https://forms.orovalleyaz.gov/forms/bluecard at least 24 hours prior to the start of the meeting. You must provide a valid email address in order
to register. Town Staff will email you a link to the Zoom meeting the day of the meeting. After being recognized by the Chair, staff will unmute your
microphone access and you will have 3 minutes to address the Commission. Further instructions regarding remote participation will be included in
the email.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Planning & Zoning Commission 2.
Meeting Date:04/05/2022
Requested by: Bayer Vella, Community and Economic Development
Case Number: N/A
SUBJECT:
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE MARCH 1, 2022 REGULAR SESSION MEETING MINUTES
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A.
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
N/A.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
I MOVE to approve (approve with changes), the March 1, 2022 meeting minutes.
Attachments
3-1-22 Draft Minutes
D R A F T
MINUTES
ORO VALLEY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
March 1, 2022
ORO VALLEY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11000 N. LA CAÑADA DRIVE
REGULAR SESSION AT OR AFTER 6:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER
Vice Chair Herrington called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Hal Bergsma, Commissioner
Robert Henderson, Commissioner
Jacob Herrington, Vice Chair
Skeet Posey, Commissioner
Daniel Sturmon, Commissioner
Celeste Gambill, Chair
Staff Present:Bayer Vella, Planning Manager
Joe Andrews, Chief Civil Deputy Attorney
Attendees: Melanie Barrett, Town Council Liaison
Chair Gambill and Commissioner Henderson attended the meeting via Zoom.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Vice Chair Herrington led the Commission and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
CALL TO AUDIENCE
There were no speaker requests.
COUNCIL LIAISON COMMENTS
Council Liaison Melanie Barrett provided updates on past and upcoming Town Council meetings as related to
Planning items.
REGULAR SESSION AGENDA
1.REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE FEBRUARY 1, 2022 REGULAR SESSION MEETING MINUTES
Motion by Commissioner Daniel Sturmon, seconded by Commissioner Hal Bergsma to approve the
meeting minutes as written.
A roll call vote was taken:
Commissioner Bergsma - Aye
Commissioner Henderson - Aye
Vice Chair Herrington - Aye
Commissioner Posey - Aye
Chair Gambill - Aye
Vote: 6 - 0 Carried
2.DISCUSSION REGARDING A PROPOSED ZONING CODE AMENDMENT TO THE SIGN
STANDARDS FOR BANNER AND WINDOW SIGNS (SECTION 28) AND OTHER RELATED
SECTIONS INCLUDING DEFINITIONS (CHAPTER 31)
Senior Planning Technician Patty Hayes provided a presentation that included the following:
- Purpose
- Banners
- Banner comparison
- Window sign details
- Window sign comparison
- General Plan comparison
- Summary
Discussion ensued among the Commission and staff.
3.DISCUSSION REGARDING PROPOSED CODE AMENDMENTS TO REVISE THE DEVELOPMENT
REVIEW PROCES S
Principal Planner Milini Simms provided a presentation that included the following:
- Purpose
- Key points
- A. Existing Development Review process
- A. Similar technical reviews by staff
- A. Proposed Development Review process
- Existing and proposed Development Process
- B. Reduces confusion by using industry terms
- B. No reduction to the extent of planning required
- C. Adds clarifying language
- D. Removes redundant and outdated processes
- Benefits all participants
- General Plan compliance
- Summary and next steps
Discussion ensued among the Commission and staff.
4.DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION TO INITIATE A ZONING CODE AMENDMENT TO REVISE
THE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS IN THE R-6 (MULTI-FAMILY) ZONING DISTRICT
Principal Planner Milini Simms summarized the need for a code amendment to update the
development standards to accommodate the various housing types permitted in the R-6 zoning district.
Requesting motion to direct staff to conduct necessary research and draft code language to bring back
to the Commission at a later date.
Discussion ensued among the Commission and staff.
Motion by Commissioner Hal Bergsma, seconded by Commissioner Daniel Sturmon to initiate the
zoning code amendment to research and possibly revise the R-6 zoning district setbacks.
A roll call vote was taken:
Commissioner Bergsma - Aye
Commissioner Henderson - Aye
Vice Chair Herrington - Aye
Commissioner Posey - Aye
Chair Gambill - Aye
Vote: 6 - 0 Carried
5.DISCUSSION REGARDING AN UPDATE ON TOWN GROWTH AND THE REMAINING LAND
SUPPLY
Planning Manager Bayer Vella provided a presentation that included the following:
- Purpose
- Town and regional growth
- Overview of land development
- Open space
- Built areas
- Single-family residential trends
- Single-family residential growth trends
- Single-family residential projections (FY21/22-FY26/27)
- Residential projections (single and multi-family)
- Unplanned vacant areas
- Key takeaways
Discussion ensued among the Commission and staff.
6.DISCUSSION REGARDING SUMMARIZING FINDINGS PRIOR TO A FORMAL VOTE
Planning Manager Bayer Vella presented that through recent discussions of high interest cases, it is
suggested that Commissioners consider sharing their thought process and reasons before motions. If
there are significant points to share, it is helpful to those in the audience to understand the reasoning
behind motions in the spirit of transparency.
Discussion ensued among the Commission and staff.
Chief Civil Deputy Attorney Joe Andrews stated to the Commission to make sure the reasons stated
are based in something substantial and are not arbitrary and capricious.
PLANNING UPDATE (INFORMATIONAL ONLY)
PLANNING UPDATE (INFORMATIONAL ONLY)
Planning Manager Bayer Vella provided an update on the next Commission meeting, a new Commissioner has
been selected and will be put forth before Town Council for appointment on March 2, 2022.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Commissioner Hal Bergsma, seconded by Commissioner Skeet Posey to adjourn the
meeting.
Vice Chair Herrington adjourned the meeting at 8:30 p.m.
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the regular session of the
Town of Oro Valley Planning and Zoning Commission of Oro Valley, Arizona held on the 1st day of March 2022. I
further certify that the meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
___________________________
Jeanna Ancona
Senior Office Specialist
Planning & Zoning Commission 3.
Meeting Date:04/05/2022
Requested by: Bayer Vella, Community and Economic Development
Case Number: 2200330
SUBJECT:
PUBLIC HEARING: DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING A PROPOSED ZONING CODE
AMENDMENT TO THE STANDARDS FOR BANNER AND WINDOW SIGNS (SECTION 28) AND OTHER
RELATED SECTIONS INCLUDING DEFINITIONS (CHAPTER 31)
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
This agenda item is for a focused amendment to the sign standards of the zoning code. Specifically to standardize
the banner and window sign requirements of the zoning code by simplifying processes and rules while creating
equity among businesses. No new sign types are being introduced with the proposed amendment.
The focus of this report is to review questions and comments from the March 1, 2022 Planning and Zoning
Commission study session. At the study session the proposed changes to the zoning code sign standards for
banner and window signs were presented as depicted in Attachment 1. The staff report from the study session is
included as Attachment 2.
The key changes, as originally proposed, include:
Consolidating the allowed size of banners to one standard size for all businesses. Every business, whether
new or established, would have the same opportunity to use the same size banner for the same duration.
1.
Banner usage would be allowed through one permit for the year instead of multiple permits during the year.2.
Allowing a business to use an overall percentage of their windows for signage instead of
micromanaging components of the window signs.
3.
Several sections of the sign standards have been reformatted for ease of use as housekeeping without
substantive changes. Improvements include relocating sign definitions from Chapter 28 into Chapter 31
where all other code definitions are kept.
4.
The following comments were discussed during the March Planning and Zoning Commission meeting:
Window signs
Comment: Clarification of window sign illumination allowance was requested.
Staff response: The open and closed sign along with a 6 square foot display area is allowed to
be illuminated under the current code standards. The proposed code amendment does not change the
illuminated display or open and closed sign allowances. No change to this standard.
Comment: The potential movement of illuminated window signs was mentioned as a concern.
Staff response: The code currently prohibits flashing, blinking or any movement of window signs. The
proposed code amendment will continue to prohibit movement of illuminated signs. No change to this
standard.
Comment: An explanation of how the 30 percent window sign area allowance is measured was requested.
Staff response: The percentage allowance is for the overall window frontage and not individual panes
of glass.
Comment: A question was asked if merchandise displayed outside the store is addressed in this code
amendment.
Staff response: This code change does not address display of goods outside the store. Section
25.1.A.4.b. of the zoning code addresses outdoor display. It is not part of this code amendment.
Comment: Commissioners asked for comparison to other jurisdictions.
Staff response: Pima County allows 30% window coverage. Marana permits 40% and Scottsdale
allows 40% of window space to be used for signage.
Banner signs
Comment: A Commissioner asked about the allowed colors of banners.
Staff response: A broad range of colors are permitted; however, fluorescent or iridescent colors, such
as the reflective colors seen on traffic control signs, are not allowed. No change to this standard.
Comment: Commissioners asked for comparison to other jurisdictions.
Staff response:The proposed banner size is a 60 square foot banner for all businesses. Pima County
allows a 60 square feet banner, 40 square feet is permitted in Marana, and the Scottsdale allowance is
based on store frontage with a maximum of 250 sq ft.
BACKGROUND OR DETAILED INFORMATION:
There are no new or additional changes to the proposed sign standards resulting from the March 1, 2022 Planning
and Zoning Commission meeting. Attachment 2, the study session staff report, provides an overall description and
tables regarding the proposed changes as presented at that meeting.
General Plan Conformance
The General Plan states the Town is to “maintain the unique character of Oro Valley by studying and updating
signage regulations”. It further states signage is to “emphasize identification and direction over advertising goods or
services to maintain compatibility and minimal intrusiveness”.
The Town is charged with balancing the long-term success of businesses with the goals and policies of the General
Plan. The proposed code amendment (Attachment 1) is a focused change to a limited sign type that will contribute
to the identification of businesses and their long-term success.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
Public notice has been provided as stated below:
All HOA's in Town were notified of this hearing
Public hearing notices were posted at:
Town Hall
Daily Territorial Newspaper
OVProjects.com
SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION
The proposed code amendment conforms to the General Plan by updating sign standards while contributing to a
businesses' identification. The proposed changes will provide better identification, simplicity and equality among all
businesses. Staff recommends approval of the proposed code amendment.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION:
The Planning and Zoning Commission may consider the following motions:
I MOVE to recommend approval of the code amendment to banner and window signs in Chapter 28 and definitions
in Chapter 31.
OR
I MOVE to recommend denial of the code amendment to banner and window signs in Chapter 28 and definitions in
Chapter 31, based on the following_________________.
Attachments
Attachment 1 Chapter 28 & 31 Draft
Attachment 2 PZC Study Session Staff Report
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 1 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
CHAPTER 28
SIGNS
Sections:
Section 28.1 General Provisions
Section 28.2 Procedures and Enforcement
Section 28.3 General Sign Requirements
Section 28.4 Definitions and Sign Types
Section 28.5 4 Permanent Signs
Section 28.6 5 Temporary Signs
Section 28.7 6 Permanent Signs on Public Property
Section 28.8 7 Temporary Signs on Public Property
Section 28.9 8 Temporary Public and Quasi-Public Signs
Section 28.10 9 Prohibited Signs
Section 28.11 10 Exempted Signs
Note to Code Publishing, the following notice is no longer needed
Code reviser’s note: Ordinance (O)15-13, Section 1, provides, “The enforcement of the content based signs
and sign walkers within Chapter 28, Signs, of the Oro Valley Sign Code Revised and any noncomplying private
property provisions, is hereby suspended.”
Section 28.1 General Provisions
A. Purpose
1. The purpose of this Chapter is to establish reasonable regulations for the design,
construction, location, and maintenance of all exterior signs in the Town of Oro Valley in
order to:
a. Preserve and protect the public health, safety, welfare, and convenience. Protect
the general public from injury or damage which may be caused by faulty and
uncontrolled construction or improper location of signs within the Town.
March 4, 2022 draft
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 2 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
b. Provide for an effective form of communication while preserving the scenic beauty
of the desert environment. Ensure that the signage is clear; compatible with the
character of the adjacent architecture and neighborhoods; and provides the essential
identity of, and direction to, facilities in the community.
c. Enhance the potential economic value and quality of development within the
community, as well as promote and aid the tourism industry, an important part of the
Town’s economy.
d. Promote the effectiveness of signs by preventing sign over-concentration, improper
placement, excessive clutter, size, and number.
e. Safeguard and preserve the unique character of the Town and create an attractive
and appealing community environment in which to live, work, and visit. Assure that the
public benefits derived from the expenditure of public funds for the improvement and
beautification of streets and other public structures and spaces shall be protected by
exercising reasonable controls over the character and design of sign structures.
2. It is not the purpose of this Chapter to repeal, abrogate, annul or in any way impair or
interfere with existing provisions of other laws or ordinances, except those specifically
repealed by this Chapter.
B. Requirement for Conformity
If any sign and/or sign structure is located, constructed, reconstructed, altered, repaired,
converted or maintained in violation of this Chapter, the Town or any owner or tenant of real
property aggrieved by the alleged violation, in addition to other remedies available at law, may
institute appropriate injunction proceedings to correct the violation with the Oro Valley
Magistrate Court.
C. Nonconforming and Discontinued Signs
1. Signs Rendered Nonconforming
a. If, at the time of the adoption of this Chapter or amendment thereto, or of any
extension of jurisdiction resulting from annexation, any permanent sign which is being
used but does not conform to the provisions of this Chapter shall be deemed legal
nonconforming.
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 3 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
b. Any sign which becomes legally nonconforming shall be permitted to remain,
provided the sign:
i. Is not increased in area or height;
ii. Remains structurally unchanged, except for reasonable repairs or minor
alteration;
iii. If relocated, due to no fault of the owner, is placed in the same relative
position on the remaining property that it occupied prior to the relocation;
iv. Is relocated in a manner so as to comply with applicable safety requirements;
and
v. Is not discontinued per subsection C.2 of this section.
c. Alteration or Removal of Nonconforming Signs
i. A nonconforming sign shall not be re-erected, relocated (except as permitted
above), or replaced unless it is brought into compliance with the requirements of
this Chapter.
ii. Any nonconforming sign shall be removed or rebuilt in full conformity to the
terms of this Chapter if it is damaged or allowed to deteriorate to such extent that
the cost of repair or restoration is fifty percent (50%) or more of the costs and/or
replacement of materials.
2. Signs Rendered Obsolete or Discontinued
a. With the exception of Lease, Rent, and For Sale Signs, any sign which is located on a
property which becomes vacant and unoccupied for a period exceeding three (3)
months shall be deemed to have been discontinued.
b. Sign structures which remain vacant, unoccupied, obsolete, devoid of any message
or display a message pertaining to a time, event, or purpose that no longer applies for
more than three (3) months shall be deemed discontinued.
c. It shall be the responsibility of the owner of the premises to remove any sign
deemed discontinued subject to penalty as set forth in Section 30.2.
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 4 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
3. Change in Business
a. When a business establishment closes, relocates, changes names, or abandons any
sign or structure, the owner of the property shall remove the sign, or cause it to be
removed, within thirty (30) days of the change of business. If the sign is to be
immediately re-faced with a new business name, a new sign permit shall be required
and applicable fees shall be paid. A permit shall be nontransferable from one (1) owner
to another.
b. A nonconforming sign shall be brought into compliance with the requirements of
this Chapter when a business establishment closes, relocates, changes names, or
abandons any sign. A permit and applicable fees for the sign modifications are
required.
D. Liabilities for Insurance and Damages
1. The provisions of this code shall not be construed to relieve or to limit in any way the
responsibility or liability of any person, firm, or corporation which erects or owns any sign
from personal injury or property damages caused by, or attributed to, such sign. The
provisions of this code shall not be construed to impose upon the Town of Oro Valley, its
officers or its employees any responsibility or liability by reason of the approval of any sign
under the provisions of this code.
E. Prevailing Code
In the event a provision established in this Chapter is found to be in conflict with another
provision in the Oro Valley Zoning Code Revised, or any other Town Code, the more restrictive
shall prevail.
In the event that a commercial, industrial, or residential development and/or subdivision
should fall under a Planned Area Development (PAD), the rules and regulations of that PAD
shall apply.
If the Town-adopted sign regulations/guidelines for any development project, including Planned
Area Developments, do not specifically address any such sign standard, the provisions of this
Chapter shall apply.
F. Signs Prohibited by Omission
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 5 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
In addition to those signs, or sign types, specifically prohibited by Section 28.10, any sign, or
type of sign, not specifically permitted under provisions of this code shall be prohibited.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19; (O)11-07, 03/16/11)
Section 28.2 Procedures and Enforcement
The Planning and Zoning Administrator is responsible for enforcing this Chapter pursuant to
Sections 21.2.B.7 and 21.4.B.10. The Planning and Zoning Administrator is hereby authorized
and empowered to ensure that all provisions of this Chapter are met in fact and intent. The
Planning and Zoning Administrator may appoint a designee to assure code compliance. The
procedures to be followed in exercising this authority are outlined in Sections 28.2.C through F.
Figure 28-1. Sign Criteria, Sign Package, and Master Sign Program Approval Process
Replace this graphic with the
following:
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 6 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
((O)17-05, 06/07/17)
A. Sign Permits, Fees, and Application Procedures
1. A sign permit shall be required in order to erect, install, relocate, modify, or change any
sign within the Town of Oro Valley.
2. Approval of all temporary sign permits shall be at the discretion of the Planning and
Zoning Administrator or his/her designee.
3. The Planning and Zoning Administrator or his/her designee shall authorize issuance of
permits for permanent signs after applications have been reviewed by staff for code
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 7 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
compliance. Any proposed Master Sign Program, amendments thereto, or PAD exemption
is subject to review by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Once sign applications have
been approved, any issuance of sign permits shall meet the approved sign standards for
that development.
4. All electrical work associated with the sign installation must conform to the currently
adopted versions of the National Electrical Code and must be reflected on the application.
5. Permit Fees
a. Upon approval of an application for the sign permit, the applicant shall be advised
of the applicable fee. Permits will not be issued until all applicable fees have been
collected. Fees shall be assessed according to a schedule adopted by the Town Council.
b. Exception: The owner of a nonconforming sign shall not be required to pay a fee
for a permit to bring an existing sign into conformance with this code.
6. Application shall be in accordance with Town policy.
7. Permit Expiration
a. All permits issued under this Chapter, unless otherwise stipulated, shall expire by
limitation and become null and void if the work authorized by such permit is not
completed within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of such permit. Prior to
expiration of the permit, the applicant may request an extension of the expiration date
at the discretion of the Planning and Zoning Administrator and/or his/her appointee.
Once the permit has expired, before such work can recommence a new permit shall
first be obtained and the fee shall be fifty percent (50%) of the amount required for a
new permit for such work, provided no changes have been, or will be, made to the
original plans and specifications.
b. Any sign for which renewal fees have not been paid, and said remittance is
delinquent for fourteen (14) or more days, is deemed to be an illegal sign, and said sign
must be removed in accordance with the requirements of this Chapter.
((O)17-05, 06/07/17)
B. Sign Criteria, Master Sign Program and Sign Package
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 8 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Sign Criteria and Master Sign Programs are official documents that regulate signage within a
multi-business site or development. An approved Sign Criteria or Master Sign Program is
required prior to issuance of a sign permit for: (1) nonresidential multiple-occupancy buildings;
(2) commercial, office, resorts, and/or industrial centers.
Any development, including single-occupancy developments within and/or adjacent to an
existing development that share access and/or parking with that development, must: (1) follow
the approved sign criteria or Master Sign Program for the existing development; or (2) submit a
Sign Criteria or Master Sign Program. If the owner elects to follow the criteria or program of the
existing center, no additional approvals are required prior to review and issuance of the sign
permit.
1. Sign Package
A sign package is comprised of a complete application for proposed permanent sign(s) for
a single business. A sign package is required if a property does not have an approved sign
criteria and/or Master Sign Program.
2. Sign Criteria
A Sign Criteria is a set of proposed sign standards for a development that complies with the
provisions of this Chapter and Addendum A, Design Guidelines. Sign Criteria for areas
within a PAD (Planned Area Development) shall comply with the provisions of the PAD.
3. Master Sign Program
a. A Master Sign Program is a set of proposed sign standards for a development that
proposed alternatives to the provisions of this Chapter, and is intended to provide
latitude in order to achieve variety and good design.
b. Master Sign Programs shall be based on the provisions of this Chapter and shall
conform to the purpose and intent of this Chapter and to the Addendum A, Design
Guidelines.
c. Master Sign Programs shall include only those sign types permitted herein and may
allow adjustments to the standards of those types, provided they are justifiable.
d. Master Sign Programs are intended to allow adjustments to the standards of
multiple sign types and shall not be used for single-occupancy developments.
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 9 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
e. Master Sign Programs require review by the Planning and Zoning Commission and
approval by the Town Council.
f. Compliance with these provisions does not guarantee approval by the Town
Council.
4. Review of Sign Criteria and/or Master Sign Program shall be guided by the following:
a. Overall character of the entire development, including landscaping, architecture,
topography, uses, and design.
b. Compliance with the criteria specified in Addendum A, Design Guidelines A-C.4 and
the purpose statements of this Chapter.
c. Any other applicable information that may be useful in the overall presentation of
the proposed criteria for the development.
5. Consistency of typeface, illumination, and color is preferred if sign criteria or Master
Sign Program have been approved, and then all requirements of that criteria or program
must be utilized.
6. Application for sign criteria and/or Master Sign Program shall be updated in
accordance with subsection A.5 of this section, Application, by the Planning and Zoning
Administrator.
((O)17-05, 06/07/17)
C. PAD Exemption
In the event that a Planned Area Development District (PAD) has established its own sign
requirements, the owner of lands within the PAD, as determined by the Planning and Zoning
Administrator, may elect to operate under all or a portion of this Chapter 28, Signs, in
accordance with the procedures set forth below:
1. A letter requesting exemption from the specific PAD sign regulations must be
submitted by the property owner within the PAD with a list of all homeowner/master
associations within the affected area. The request shall be reviewed by the Planning and
Zoning Commission.
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 10 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
2. Not less than thirty (30) days prior to the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting,
Town staff shall verify the list of homeowner associations for accuracy and completeness
and shall notify them by first class mail of the Planning and Zoning Commission hearing
date.
3. The Planning and Zoning Commission shall forward a recommendation to Town
Council. The Town Council shall approve, conditionally approve, or deny the request.
((O)17-05, 06/07/17)
D. Violations
1. Revocation of Permit
The Planning and Zoning Administrator may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued
under provisions of this section whenever the permit is issued on the basis of a material
omission or misstatement of fact, or is in violation of this Chapter or the Oro Valley Town
Code.
2. Signs Placed in the Public Right-of-Way
In the event that the requirements for temporary signs in the right-of-way are violated, the
following procedures will be followed:
a. First Violation
The sign owner will be notified of the violation, the sign will be confiscated, and a
recovery fee of twenty-five dollars ($25) per sign will be assessed.
b. Second Violation by the Same Sign Owner
The sign owner will be notified of the violation. The sign will be confiscated and the
sign owner will be assessed a fine of fifty dollars ($50) per sign.
c. Third Violation by the Same Owner within One Year
The sign owner will be notified of the violation. The sign will be confiscated and the
sign owner will be assessed a fine of one hundred dollars ($100) per sign.
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d. A maximum of five hundred dollars ($500) in fines may be assessed to a sign owner
per calendar year.
e. Additional Violations
i. Any additional violation by the same sign owner is subject to revocation of the
sign permit.
ii. If a sign permit is revoked due to a violation, the permit fee shall not be
refunded.
3. Sign Lighting
a. Documentation from the sign and/or sign lighting manufacturer, proving
compliance with the lighting standards, shall be required at the time of permit
submittal. Those documents will be kept on file at the Town as evidence of code
compliance for follow-up inspections and complaints.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19; (O)16-05, 04/06/16)
E. Abandoned, Illegal, Prohibited, or Inadequately Maintained Signs
If an abandoned, illegal, prohibited, or inadequately maintained sign is located within the Town,
the Planning and Zoning Administrator shall be empowered to issue a citation. The Planning
and Zoning Administrator may also require removal or repair of the sign and shall advise the
owner of said sign, or as an alternative, the owner of the property where said sign has been
posted, to correct whatever violation or inadequacy he/she deems to exist. All actual costs and
expenses of any such removal or repair shall be borne by the property owner of such sign.
F. Emergency Removals and/or Repair
1. The Planning and Zoning Administrator is authorized to cause the immediate removal
or repair of any sign or signs found to be unsafe or defective to the extent that it creates an
immediate and emergency hazard to persons or property. The Planning and Zoning
Administrator shall make reasonable effort to notify the property owner and/or lessee that
the unsafe or defective sign must be removed or repaired immediately. The Planning and
Zoning Administrator may cause any sign or advertising structure which is an immediate
peril to persons or property to be removed immediately after an attempt is made to reach
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the owner of the sign and the owner of the property, and without notice if the peril does
not allow time for additional notice.
2. All actual costs and expenses of any sign removal or repair shall be borne by the owner
of such sign and by the owner of the premises on which the sign is located. Each of them
shall be jointly and severally liable thereof, and an action for recovery thereof may be
brought by the Town upon proper documentation of such cost and/or expenses by the
Planning and Zoning Administrator. The Planning and Zoning Administrator shall provide
written notification to the property owner prior to the Town placing a lien on the property
with the Pima County Assessor’s Office.
((O)11-07, 03/16/11)
Section 28.3 General Sign Requirements
A. Construction
1. Building Code
All signs shall be designed and constructed in conformity with the current building codes of
the Town of Oro Valley.
2. Electrical Code
All signs requiring an electrical permit per Section 28.2.A shall be in conformance with the
current National Electrical Code adopted by the Town of Oro Valley.
3. Permanent Sign Materials
All permanent signs shall be constructed using structural members of materials subject to
approval of the Building Official and/or Town Engineer. Nonstructural trim may be wood,
metal, aluminum, approved plastics, and/or a combination thereof.
4. Temporary Sign Materials
Materials proposed to be used in constructing temporary signs shall be at the discretion of
the fabricator but shall be stated in the application for the sign permit unless otherwise
provided in this code. Adequacy of materials proposed from the standpoints of stability
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and safety and of composition and color shall be subject to approval by the Planning and
Zoning Administrator and Building Official.
((O)16-09, 09/07/16)
B. Illumination
1. Illumination of signs, when permitted by this chapter, may be accomplished only by
the following methods:
a. Halo or internal illumination, to the extent that only the sign characters and logos
emit light, unless otherwise approved by the Planning and Zoning Administrator or the
Planning and Zoning Commission.
b. Sign lighting may include neon, light emitting diodes (LED) and other light sources,
except where expressly prohibited in this chapter, in accordance with the following
standards:
i. Light sources shall be spaced the maximum distance to obtain uniformity on
the face material.
ii. Color temperature shall not exceed four thousand four hundred (4,400) kelvins.
c. Area lighting provided such lighting is in accordance with the Town of Oro Valley
Lighting Code.
d. Illuminated wall signs may be turned on no earlier than 5:00 a.m. and shall be
turned off no later than 11:00 p.m. or when the business closes, whichever is later, or
as specified in this chapter.
e. Electronic message boards such as LED, LCD, plasma screens and similar electronic
message signs expressly permitted in this chapter shall meet the following standards:
i. Limited to two hundred (200) nits (candela per square meter), full white mode,
from sunset to sunrise.
ii. Constant movement, blinking, flashing, high intensity, or animation caused by
an LED or other electronic components of the sign is prohibited.
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iii. Message shall not change more than once every twenty-four (24) hours or as
State law requires the price of the product to change.
iv. Background of the electronic message board portion of the sign shall be black
and no more than two (2) colors shall be allowed for words or numbers.
f. Sign plans submitted for permitting shall be sufficiently complete to enable the
Planning and Zoning Administrator to readily ascertain code compliance. The Planning
and Zoning Administrator may require additional evidence of compliance such as cut
sheets, manufacturer specifications and documentation from the sign and/or sign
lighting manufacturer, proving compliance with the lighting standards, which will be
kept on file at the Town as evidence of code compliance for follow up inspections and
complaints.
g. A label must be attached to the exterior of sign indicating compliance with
maximum kelvin or nit rating.
2. Prohibited Sign Lighting
The following types of light sources are prohibited as means to illuminate or attract
attention to any sign:
a. Exposed light source other than as expressly permitted in window signs, Section
28.4.B.14 28.5.B.14, or as a component of an electronic message board.
b. LED illuminated window sign display areas per Section 28.5.B.14.a.iv.d.3. 25.4.14.
c. Blinking, flashing, rotating, constant movement and animated light sources.
d. Search lights.
e. An illuminated sign placed on the interior of a business which is visible from the
exterior shall not be illuminated when the business is closed, except “closed for
business” signs.
((O)18-08, 05/16/18; (O)17-05, 06/07/17; (O)16-05, 04/06/16)
C. Colors
1. Various sign colors shall be permitted, except fluorescent or iridescent colors.
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2. All developments, including those within a Planned Area Development (PAD) that have
approved sign criteria or Master Sign Program, are required to utilize only approved colors.
D. Location and Measurement Standards
1. Location Standards
A sign shall not be installed to cause the following:
a. Obstruction of any door, window, or fire escape in any building.
b. Interference with or to confuse traffic, present any traffic hazard or obstruct the
vision of motorists.
c. Projections over any public sidewalk, street, alley, or public place unless otherwise
approved by the Town Engineer and/or Planning and Zoning Administrator or is
allowed by any portion of this Chapter.
d. Placement in a public right-of-way, except as permitted by Sections 28.7 and 28.8.
The Planning and Zoning Administrator or Town Engineer may cause the removal of
any unauthorized signs from public right-of-way.
e. Obstruction of another sign, as determined by the Planning and Zoning
Administrator.
2. Measurement Standards
a. The area of a sign that consists of individual letters, words and symbols, which are
placed upon a building wall or freestanding wall and are not encompassed by a frame
or boundary, shall be measured by the overall height of the tallest letter by the overall
length of the entire sign. The Planning and Zoning Administrator may approve the
calculation of signs by measuring the sum of the smallest rectangular shape needed to
enclose each letter or symbol if special circumstances arise that would warrant the
need to calculate differently.
b. A sign that consists of multiple faces, such as a monument sign, shall be measured
to encompass the overall height by overall length of the largest face.
c. The sign height shall be measured as the vertical distance from the average finished
grade beneath the sign to the topmost feature of the sign. If the sign is located where
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the average finished grade is lower than the adjoining grade of the road, the sign
height may be taken from the roadway surface nearest the sign to the topmost portion
of the sign.
d. Clearance is measured as the shortest distance between the underside of the sign
and the average finished grade beneath the sign.
e. Setbacks for freestanding signs shall be measured from the edge of the sign
structure closest to the property line.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19)
E. Inspections and Maintenance
1. Inspections
The Building Official, Planning and Zoning Administrator, and/or Town Engineer, or any
such person officially designated by them, is hereby empowered to perform inspections, as
deemed appropriate, to assure compliance with this code.
2. Maintenance
a. Each sign shall be maintained in a new or like-new condition at all times so as not to
constitute a danger or hazard to public safety or become an eyesore to the
community.
b. Repainting/Resurfacing of Signs
Maintenance of signage, such as repainting or resurfacing shall not require any
permits as long as the sign is in no way altered, changed, or modified from its previous
state.
((O)16-09, 09/07/16)
F. Landscaping
1. The base for all permanent freestanding signs shall be integrated into a landscaped
area.
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2. The landscaped area shall conform to the Town’s landscape requirements and shall be
maintained at all times.
3. The landscape design shall not permit plants that would obstruct the visibility of the
sign face from the street.
((O)11-07, 03/16/11)
Section 28.4 Definitions and Sign Types (RELOCATED INTO CHAPTER 31)
1 A-Frame Sign
A hinged or self-supporting upright sign constructed of durable materials and connected so as to
maintain an “A” shape or similar structure.
2. Abandoned Sign
A sign which advertises, identifies or gives notice of a business which is no longer in operation or
an activity which has already occurred.
3.Advertising
A sign primarily listing products sold or services offered, or products manufactured on the
premises.
4. Alteration
Shall mean any change, addition, or modification in construction of an existing sign.
5 Animation
The movement or optical illusion of movement of any part of a sign structure, design, or
pictorial segment, including the movement of any illumination, flashing or varying of light
intensity.
6. Awning Sign
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Refer to Section 28.5.B.1.
7. Balloon Sign
Refer to Section 28.6.B.7.
8. Banner
Refer to Section 28.6.B.1.
9. Billboard
An off-site sign that is pasted, painted, or fastened on in a manner to allow for periodic
replacement of messages that is not located on the property where the billboard is located.
10. Building Frontage
The measurement between two (2) straight lines projecting from the outermost edges of
a building or tenant space wall that are perpendicular to a straight line running along the
ground level of the front of the measured wall.
11. Cabinet Sign
A three (3) dimensional structure which includes a frame, borders and sign panel face and
may include internal illumination upon which the sign logos are placed or etched, and is
architecturally integrated with the building.
Pill-box signs
12. Change of Copy
A replacement face(s) or material to an existing sign without changing any structural
members, sizes, and/or heights.
13. Character
Any letter, number, logo, and/or symbol as defined in this section.
14. Color Temperature
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
The warmth or coolness of white light source along the black body curve. The higher the
color temperature (kelvin (k)) the cooler appearing (brighter) the white light appears.
15. Construction Sign
Refer to Section 28.6.B.2.
16. Development Complex
A site having common vehicular access points, which is subject to a development plan.
17. Development Sign
Refer to Section 28.6.B.2.
18. Direct Lighting
A source of external illumination located a distance away from the sign which lights the
sign, but which itself is not visible from any normal position or view.
19. Directional Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.2.
20. Directory Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.3.
21. Display Area
Refer to Section 28.5.B.14.
22. Double-Faced Sign
A sign having two (2) display surfaces, one (1) (or more) support(s) of which is (are) shared
by both surfaces. Hence, double-face signs include back-to-back signs as well as V-shaped
signs.
23. Electronic Message Board
A sign that permits the changing of messages by means of electronically controlled sign
copy.
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24. Entryway Sign
Refer to Sections 28.5.B.4 and 28.5.C.1.
25. Fascia
A parapet-type wall used as part of the facade of a flat-roofed building and projecting from
the building face immediately adjacent thereto. Such a wall shall enclose at least three (3)
sides of the projecting flat roof.
26. Flag
Refer to Section 28.6.B.3.
27. Freestanding
Shall mean any structure which is not attached to any other structure or portion of a
structure.
28. Garage/Yard/Estate Sale Sign
An on-site or off-site, temporary sign made from paper, poster board, cardboard, or like
material.
29. Government Sign
A sign installed or required by a public agency such as traffic, public transit, public
information, or similar government entity.
30. Grand Opening Sign
An on-site sign advertising the opening of an establishment, expansion, or change of
ownership of a commercial enterprise, new business, store, or office.
31. Ground or Monument Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.7.
32. Halo Illumination
Illumination produced by recessing a light source inside a hollow character with an open
back or within the surface to which the sign letters are mounted. An outline glow around
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the characters is created by this light as it is reflected off the background to which the
characters are attached.
33. Historical Marker
A sign marker locating and identifying a historical interest or site.
34. Home Occupation Sign
A sign that identifies a business or commercial activity that is conducted from the property
zoned for residential use.
35. Human Signs
Any portable commercial advertisement that is held or worn by a person or persons to
draw attention to or direct the public to a business or event.
36. Identification Sign
An on-site, permanent sign which identifies the premises where the sign is located.
37. Illuminated Sign
A sign whose surface is lit internally or externally or has the potential or ability to be
illuminated either by battery or electricity shall be considered an illuminated sign whether
the sign is lit or unlit.
38. Indirect Lighting
A source of external illumination located a distance away from the sign, but which is itself
not visible from any normal position.
39. Inflatable Sign
An object, device or structure capable of or designed to be inflated with air or
lighter-than-air gas that is used for the purpose of attracting attention or to make
something known to the public.
40. Internal Illumination
A source of illumination entirely within the sign wherein the source of the illumination is
not visible.
41. Kiosk Sign
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A freestanding sign that contains directional placards. The kiosk is installed per a contract
with an independent contractor who is responsible for the manufacture and maintenance
of the signs.
42. Logo
A graphic symbol representing a business. Logos shall be state or federally registered
trademarks.
43. Maintenance
The replacing or repairing of a part of a sign made usable, unsafe, or unattractive by
ordinary wear, tear or damage that is beyond the control of the owner, or the repainting of
an existing sign without changing the wording, location, composition or color of the sign.
44. Marquee Sign
Any sign affixed to or constructed in a roof like structure or awning projecting over an
entrance to a building, such as a theater.
45. Memorial Sign
A permanent sign, table, or plaque memorializing a person, event, structure, or site.
46. Menu Board
Refer to Section 28.5.B.6.
47. Model Home Flags
Refer to Section 28.6.C.3.
48. Modifier
A word on a sign describing uses and activities other than the business name.
49. Moving or Animated Signs
Any sign or part of a sign which changes physical position, flashes, blinks lights, rotates or
conveys the illusion of movement by mechanical means, illumination, and/or air
movement.
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50. Neon Sign
An illuminated, commercial display made up of glass tubes, shaped to form letters and
designs.
51. Nit
A unit of visible-light intensity, commonly used to specify the brightness of an LED, cathode
ray tube or liquid crystal display computer display. One (1) nit is equivalent to one (1)
candela per square meter.
52. Nonconforming Sign
Any sign which does not conform to the provisions of this code but which, when first
constructed, was legally allowed by the Town of Oro Valley or political subdivision then
having control over signs.
53. Nonilluminated Sign
A sign that does not have the ability to be electrified or powered in any way. The
components that enable the sign to be lit must be permanently disabled in order to be
considered a nonilluminated sign.
54. Off-Site Sign
Any sign not located on the premises or site of the use identified or advertised by the sign.
55. On-Site Sign
Any sign which is located on the premises or site of the use identified or advertised by the
sign.
56. On-Site Subdivision Sign
An on-site, temporary sign located at the entrance to a subdivision.
57. Pan-Channel Letter
A dimensional character fabricated to form a pan (i.e., a back and sides). The pan is formed
in the shape of a character. The sides are strips of the same material fastened to the back.
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The open end of the pan is usually capped by a character cut from translucent acrylic, and
is known as the face. Lighting may be installed inside the pan to illuminate the face.
Note to Code Publishing: The below interpretation is no longer needed. The code was
updated to accommodate.
Pill-box signs
58. Parapet
The top portion of the wall which extends above the roofline.
59. Pedestrian Tenant Directory
Refer to Section 28.5.B.8.
60. Pennants
Any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, containing multi-colors and that may
contain a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wires, or string, designed to move
in the wind.
61. Permanent Sign
Letters, numerals, symbols, and/or insignia that is intended to be displayed for an
indefinite or long-lasting period and the lettering or message of which is intended to
remain essentially unchanged, except for the maintenance against normal effects of
exposure to weather.
62. Pole Cover
Covers made from various materials which enclose or conceal a pole or other structural
supports or members to the sign.
63. Portable Sign
Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure, or a sign
designed to be transported, including, but not limited to, signs designed to be moved by
means of wheels; signs converted into A-frames; menu and sandwich board signs; balloons
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used as signs; and signs attached to or painted on vehicles parked and visible from the
public right-of-way, unless the vehicles are used in normal day-to-day operations of the
business.
64. Posters
A large printed display or picture often posted in a public place as a notice or
advertisement.
65. Premises
All contiguous land used and occupied by an establishment, whether owned or leased from
another. Included are all buildings, storage and service areas, and private roads or
driveways which are an integral part of the establishment.
66. Prohibited Use
Shall mean a use not specifically permitted.
67. Public Service Sign
A sign which provides directions to a public or quasi-public location such as community
centers, schools, Town facilities, and religious institutions.
68. Projecting Sign
An on-site sign attached to and extending more than twelve (12) inches from a structure
not designed exclusively for the support of the sign and/or a sign which projects from the
wall of a building or structure perpendicular to the wall surface.
69. Real Estate Sign
A sign pertaining to the sale, rent, or lease of the premises or portion of the premises on
which the sign is located.
70. Reasonable Repairs
To restore an existing structure to a good or sound condition resulting from decay or
damage.
71. Residential Sign
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A sign on which is displayed the name and address of the occupant.
72. Reverse Channel Letter
A sign with dimensional character(s) fabricated from opaque material to form a pan, i.e., a
front and sides. The pan is formed in the shape of a character. The sides are strips of
material fastened to the front. The back remains open. Lighting may be installed inside the
pan which creates a halo illumination.
73. Roofline
The top edge of the roof or the top of the parapet, whichever forms the top line of the
building silhouette.
74. Roof Sign
A sign that is mounted on, above, or over the roof of a building, so that it projects above
the highest point of the roofline, parapet, or fascia of the building.
75. Seasonal Sign
Refer to Section 28.6.B.5.
76. Service Station/Fuel Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.9.
77. Setback
The shortest straight line distance in feet from the nearest property or lot boundary to the
main accessory building, structure, sign, or similar features located on the same property
or lot.
78. Sign
Every message, announcement, declaration, display, illustration, insignia, character,
surface, or space erected, maintained or attached to any structure, surface, or thing and
made visible for the purpose of attracting attention or to making something known to the
public.
79. Sign Area Allotment
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The permitted amount of identification sign area on ratio to the linear footage of building
frontage.
80. Sign Modification
Any change to an existing sign’s copy, color, and/or supporting structures.
81. Sign Structure
A freestanding wall, pole, pedestal, or object erected for the purpose of supporting the
sign.
82. Site Plan
A plan drawing of an individual site including the layout of buildings, circulation system,
parking, walls, landscaping, open space, and any other appropriate information as required
by the Town of Oro Valley to provide adequate review.
83. Seasonal or Event Banner
Refer to Section 28.6.B.1.c.
84. Subcontractor Sign
A temporary sign which identifies the firm, business, persons, or entity responsible for
work or activity in progress at the location of the sign.
85. Symbol
A letter, figure, or other conventional mark designating an object, quantity, operation,
function, or the like.
86. Tagline
An accessory wall sign containing a grouping of letters or characters built into a single pan
channel or reverse pan channel platform that contains modifiers or is used to convey
information relating to the business such as goods, services, products or business
associates.
87. Temporary Sign
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Any display in public view to advertise or convey information or direction which is intended
to be displayed for a limited or finite period of time only. The type, quality, and materials of
construction of which, although visually attractive and structurally sound, are not intended
to be long lasting.
88. Theater Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.10.
89. Time and Temperature Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.11.
90. Traffic Sign
An on-site or off-site sign for which the sole purpose and placement are solely to define
and streamline the flow of vehicular traffic so as to minimize congestion and promote
safety.
91. Under-Canopy Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.12.
92. Unoccupied
A premises or structure which is not occupied or being put to those uses as authorized by
the last business privilege license issued by the Town for that address and business or a
premises or structure where the public utilities are not in service.
93. Vehicle Sign
A sign that is mounted, painted, or erected upon trucks, cars, boats, trailers, or other
motorized vehicles or equipment that is parked for the primary purpose of functioning as a
sign.
94. Wall Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.13.
Code Publishing Note: The below interpretation is no longer needed. The code was
changed to clarify.
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Pill-box signs
95. Window Sign
Refer to Section 28.5.B.14.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19; (O)18-08, 05/16/18; (O)17-02, 02/15/17; (O)16-09, 09/07/16; (O)16-05, 04/06/16;
(O)15-08, 05/20/15; (O)11-07, 03/16/11)
Section 28.4 5 Permanent Signs
A. Identification Signs
1. The following signs shall be required for the purpose of identification:
a. Residential address.
b. Building address for multi-building development (Refer to the current Pima County
Addressing Code Regulations).
c. Names of streets, drives, circles, complexes, condominiums, etc.
B. Permanent Signs in a Commercial/Industrial Zoning District
The following permanent sign types shall be allowed within a Commercial, Industrial and/or
Private School Zoning District and for religious institutions as specified herein:
1. Awning Sign
a. Definition: A sign which is placed on, or integrated into, fabric or other material
canopies, which is mounted on the exterior wall of a building. Sign copy affixed to an
awning may only display the name of the business and/or address.
A.b. Quantity: One (1) awning allowed per business.
B.c. Area of Sign Copy: Maximum twenty (20) square feet which shall count against the
business’s sign area allotment.
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C.d. Height: Not to exceed the roofline of a building.
D.e. Illumination: Internal illumination, fluorescent lamps, provided only the copy
emits light. The background material shall be opaque. An awning sign must be turned
off at the close of business.
2. Directional Sign
a. Definition: A permanent on-site sign that is placed solely to define location and
streamline the flow of vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic so as to minimize congestion
and promote safety. A directional sign may only display written or graphic directions
for traffic, name of the business and/or logo, and address and/or suite number.
A b. Quantity: One (1) single- or double-faced directional sign per individual,
freestanding business that is not part of a Master Sign Program. Businesses that have
drive-through lanes shall be allowed one (1) additional directional sign.
B c. Area of Sign: Six (6) square feet.
C d. Height: Not to exceed three (3) feet.
D e. Location: To be located at an access point to the property and/or interior to the
property of the business.
E f. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
F g. Illumination: Internal illumination allowed; provided, that the sign is turned off at
the close of business.
Figure 28-3. Directional Sign
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
3. Directory Sign
a. Definition: An on-site sign interior to a development that lists only names and
locations of the businesses or activities within a building or multi-tenant complex. A
directory sign shall help to direct vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic.
A b. Quantity: Shall be determined and reviewed on an individual project basis by the
Planning and Zoning Administrator, when applicable. The guidelines set forth under an
approved sign criteria or Master Sign Program shall be followed.
B c. Area of Sign: Not to exceed forty (40) square feet, and not to exceed two (2)
square feet for each business displayed on the sign.
C d. Height: Not to exceed eight (8) feet from grade.
D e. Location: Interior to the property or development, such as the parking area.
E f. Setback: Minimum forty (40) feet from the property line.
F g. Illumination: Internal illumination allowed; provided, that the sign is turned off by
11:00 p.m.
4. Entryway Sign
a. Definition: A permanent sign identifying the entrance to a subdivision, complex,
facility, or commercial development.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A b. Quantity: Maximum of two (2) per entryway with one (1) located on each side of
entryway. If the linear frontage of the project exceeds six hundred (600) feet and there
is more than one (1) entry point along that frontage, two (2) additional signs may be
permitted at the second entryway on that frontage. For projects with multiple street
frontages, entryway signs are permitted on each frontage in accordance with the
quantity and spacing requirements listed above.
B c. Area of Sign: Thirty-two (32) square feet.
C d. Height: Not to exceed six (6) feet or the height of the entryway wall on which the
sign is placed.
D e. Location: On private property, in a landscaped area at entryways, as described
above.
E f. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
F g. Illumination: Halo illuminated letters or direct lighting that shall not project above
the sign. The sign may be turned on at 5:00 a.m. and shall be turned off by 11:00 p.m.
Figure 28-4. Entryway Sign
Figure 28-5. Allowed Entryway Signs
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
5. (Repealed by (O)19-06, 07/31/19)
6. Menu Board
a. Definition: A monument style or wall-mounted sign providing a bill of fare for the
purpose of placing orders at a drive-through, drive-in restaurant, or walk up window.
A. b. Quantity: Two (2) per drive-through lane.
B. c. Area of Sign: Thirty-two (32) square feet.
C. d. Height: Not to exceed six (6) feet.
D. e. Location: Within a designated drive-through lane so as not to be visible from
adjacent streets or property, or another location approved by the Town.
E. f. Setback: Must be on private property and shall not pose a safety hazard.
F. g. Illumination: May be internally illuminated provided the menu board is turned off
no later than one (1) hour after business is closed.
7. Monument Sign
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
a. Definition: A permanent sign supported by structures, columns, uprights, and/or
braces that are placed on, or anchored in, the ground independent of the building or
business structure.
A. b. Quantity:
i. One (1) per street frontage.
ii. If frontage is greater than six hundred (600) feet and there is more than one (1)
entrance to the development, a second sign is permitted.
iii. For frontages greater than eight hundred (800) feet, additional signs may be
approved by the Town.
iv. A corner sign with frontage on both streets may be utilized as an additional
allowable sign.
B c. Area of Sign:
i. Fifty (50) square feet for a single tenant or the development name.
ii. Seventy-two (72) square feet for a multiple-tenant sign with tenant panels.
C d. Height:
i. Not to exceed eight (8) feet from grade.
ii. An architectural element of the sign, such as an arch or column, may exceed
the height of the monument sign by twenty-five percent (25%); provided, that all
text and logos are less than eight (8) feet in height from grade.
D e. Location: To be placed near the entrance or along a street frontage on private
property.
E f. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
F g. Illumination:
i. Illumination may be halo, internal, or a combination thereof.
ii. Individual panels shall be opaque with copy that may be lit.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
iii. Unused tenant panels shall be opaque and designed to match the rest of the
sign.
iv. The sign may be turned on at 5:00 a.m. and shall be turned off no later than
11:00 p.m.
G h. Design:
i. Blank tenant panels shall not be white.
ii. The sign may be single- or double-faced, with all supporting structures
concealed.
iii. The sign may contain the name of the development and a maximum of eight
(8) tenants, along with the property address.
iv. No one (1) tenant may be displayed more than once in one (1) monument sign.
H i. Changeable Copy Standards for Monument Signs:
i. Uses are limited to the following:
a) Private schools.
b) Religious institutions.
c) Service stations, which are subject to subsection B.9 of this section.
d) Theaters, which are subject to subsection B.10 of this section.
e) Time/temperature, which are subject to subsection B.11 of this section.
ii. Quantity: One (1) allowed as an integrated part of a monument or wall sign.
iii. Size: Changeable copy portion of the sign shall not exceed fifty percent (50%)
of the proposed sign area.
iv. Illumination: Standards of Section 28.3.B shall apply.
v. Design:
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
a) Changeable copy may be done manually or with an electronic message
board.
b) Electronic message boards shall be integrated into the monument sign.
8. Pedestrian Tenant Directory
a. Definition: An exterior, wall-mounted, or freestanding sign that lists only the names
and locations of tenants of a complex or development for the sole purpose of directing
pedestrians. The sign shall have a uniform background color and letter style.
A. b. Quantity: One (1) per building entrance, or as approved by the Town. If
applicable, applicant shall follow the guidelines set forth under a Master Sign Program,
Section 28.2.B.
B. c. Area of Sign: Maximum four (4) square foot panel for the name of the complex
and maximum two (2) square foot panel for each business or resident within the
complex.
C. d. Height: Shall be at eye level for pedestrian traffic and not exceed the roofline of a
building.
D. e. Location: May be wall-mounted or freestanding at pedestrian entrance points to
the complex and/or along pedestrian walkways.
E. f. Illumination: Sign shall be nonilluminated.
Figure 28-6. Pedestrian Tenant Directory
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
9. Service Station/Fuel Sign
a. Definition: A permanent, two (2) component, monument style sign displaying fuel
prices, fuel types, name of station, and/or logos.
A. b. Quantity: One (1) per street frontage.
B. c. Area of Sign: Thirty-two (32) square feet.
C. d. Height: Not to exceed six (6) feet from grade.
D. e. Location: On private property adjacent to an arterial or collector street only.
E. f. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
F. g. Illumination: Name and logo of the business may be internally illuminated.
G. h. Changeable copy standards for service station/fuel signs:
i. Uses are limited to the following:
a) Fuel prices.
b) Fuel types.
ii. Size: Changeable copy portion of the sign shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of
the proposed sign area.
iii. Illumination: Standards of Section 28.3.B shall apply.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
iv. Design:
a) Changeable copy may be done manually or with an electronic message
board.
b) Electronic message boards shall be integrated into the monument sign.
Figure 28-7. Service Station/Fuel Sign
10. Theater Signs
a. Definition: A monument style or wall sign with changeable copy panels used to
display the current movies and times they are playing within the theater.
A. b. Quantity: One (1) wall sign and one (1) monument style sign allowed.
B. c. Area of Sign: Fifty (50) square feet for a monument style sign and sixty-four (64)
square feet for a wall sign.
C. d. Height: Eight (8) feet for a monument style sign. A wall sign shall not extend
above the roofline of a building.
D. e. Location: A monument style sign shall be located on private property and a wall
sign shall be displayed at the main entrance to the building.
E. f. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
F. g. Illumination: The sign may be internally illuminated or the copy may be
electronically illuminated and shall meet the standards of Section 28.3.B. The sign may
only display the current listing of movies and their times. No other advertising message
is allowed. The sign shall be turned off one (1) hour after closing of theater.
Figure 28-8. Theater Sign
11. Time and Temperature Signs
a. Definition: An electronically controlled sign that provides the current time and/or
temperature.
A. b. Quantity: One (1) per development project.
B. c. Area of Sign: A time and temperature sign may be a component of a monument
style sign. Wall signs shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet.
C. d. Height: Not to exceed the roofline of a building.
D. e. Location: On private property and shall not be located within six hundred (600)
feet of another time and temperature sign, not including an analog mounted on a wall.
E. f. Illumination: Shall meet the standards of Section 28.3.B.
12. Under-Canopy Sign
a. Definition: A wall-mounted or hanging sign which identifies the business name
and/or logo. Under-canopy signs shall be consistent in color, shape, design, and
materials, if the development has an approved sign criteria or master sign program. An
under-canopy sign shall be located entirely under a covered porch, walkway, extended
roof or similar structure and is solely for directing pedestrian traffic.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A. b. Quantity: One (1) per tenant space.
B. c. Area of Sign: Four (4) square feet.
C. d. Height: A minimum clearance of seven (7) feet shall be maintained beneath the
sign and shall not extend above a roofline of the building.
D. e. Location: The sign shall be in front of the tenant space it is identifying and shall
be suspended from a roof overhang above a walkway or porch, or may be
perpendicular to the street and attached to the fascia of the building.
E. f. Illumination: Shall be nonilluminated.
13. Wall Sign
a. Definition: Any sign which is fastened, attached, connected, or supported in whole
or in part by a building or structure other than a sign structure which is supported
wholly by the ground with the exposed face of the sign in a plane parallel to the plane
of the wall.
A. i. A wall sign shall consist of individual character letters (pan channel or reverse
pan channel).
i. ii. Only individual logos may utilize cabinet sign type with a translucent sign
face.
ii. iii. Wall signs may include the name of the business, a trademarked logo,
tagline, and modifiers, if needed, to further clarify the goods or services available
on the premises.
b. Quantity:
i. No more than two (2) elevations may contain a wall sign.
ii. If a single tenant occupies an end unit or entire freestanding building, there
may be signs on three (3) elevations, but only two (2) elevations may have
illuminated wall signs.
iii. “End unit” refers to the end unit of a building in the final phase of a
development.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
c. Area of Sign: For building elevations containing wall signs, a sign may be:
i. Twenty-four (24) square feet, with no single wall sign containing more than one
(1) square foot of sign for each linear foot of building frontage, for a maximum
sign area of one hundred fifty (150) square feet.
ii. Wall signs for building elevations further than three hundred (300) feet from
the street may contain no more than one and one-half (1 1/2) square feet of sign
area for each linear foot of frontage, for a maximum sign area of two hundred
(200) square feet.
iii. Where businesses do not possess individual frontages, each may maintain an
individual sign; however, the maximum wall sign square footage shall not be
exceeded.
iv. Taglines are not to exceed thirty-five percent (35%) of the actual area of the
main wall sign, as permitted in this section.
v. May not project more than eight (8) inches from the wall on which the sign is
mounted.
d. Height: No wall sign shall extend above the roofline of a building.
e. Location: Shall only be placed on the building elevations or at the main entrance of
a business which the sign identifies.
f. Illumination:
i. Individual letters may be nonilluminated, halo illuminated or internally
illuminated.
ii. Cabinet-type signs shall only emit light through the logo.
iii. Taglines may be halo or internally illuminated and shall only emit light through
a translucent material over cut out letters or characters.
iv. The standards of Section 28.3.B shall apply.
g. Changeable copy standards for wall signs:
i. Uses are limited to the following:
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
a) Private schools.
b) Religious institutions.
c) Theaters. See subsection B.10 of this section.
d) Time/temperature. See subsection B.11 of this section.
ii. Quantity: One (1) allowed as an integrated part of a wall sign if changeable copy
is not used on a monument sign.
iii. Size: Changeable copy portion of the sign, including frame, shall not exceed
fifty percent (50%) of the proposed sign area.
iv. Illumination: Internal.
v. Design:
a) Changeable copy may not be changed electronically.
Figure 28-9. Wall Sign
14. Window Signs
a. Definition: Any form of advertisement and/or identification associated with the
business that is affixed to the interior or exterior of a window, or placed immediately
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
behind a window so as to inform or attract attention to the public outside of the
building and/or tenant space. Window signs are divided into five (5) types of signs:
i. Business Name: Signs that identify the name of the business.
a) Area of sign: Maximum two (2) square feet.
b) Quantity: Maximum of one (1) sign for any one (1) business and/or tenant
space. For businesses that are corner tenants or individual properties having
two (2) street frontages, the same shall apply on both sides.
c) Location: The business name sign shall be located on the entrance door
to the establishment. If an entrance door cannot be utilized, then the sign may
be located where it will not interfere with any other sign types, under this
provision.
d) Illumination: Business name shall be not illuminated except as provided in
subsection B.14.a.iv.d of this section.
ii. Business Hours of Operation: Signs that identify the business is open and/or
closed for operation.
a) Area of Sign: Hours of operation shall not exceed a maximum of one (1)
square foot.
b) Quantity: Maximum of one (1) sign for any one (1) business and/or tenant
space. For businesses that are corner tenants or individual properties having
two (2) street frontages, the same shall apply on both sides.
c) Location: The hours of operation shall be located on the entrance door to
the establishment. If an entrance door cannot be utilized, then the sign may
be located within another area that will not interfere with any other sign types,
under this provision.
d) Illumination: Business hours shall not be illuminated.
iii. Sign Band: A thin band which stretches the overall length of the windows of a
building front and/or tenant space and displays either the name of the business or
logo in multiple successions.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
a) Area of Sign: A sign band shall not exceed a maximum of one (1) foot in
height by the overall length of the building frontage and/or tenant space.
b) Quantity: A maximum of one (1) sign band per window.
c) Height: The sign band shall be no higher than the midpoint of the overall
height of the windows from grade.
d) Illumination: Sign band shall not be illuminated.
Additional Requirements:
1) The band may include additional text, logos, or graphics that relate to
the business within.
2) Copy may not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total band length.
iv. Display Area: An area for the purpose of displaying miscellaneous items such
as posters, menus, promotional items or the like which pertain to the business
itself, in a defined location and may include illumination. Window displays such as
mannequins, three (3) dimensional figures, clothing and the like, which do not
contain advertisement, shall not be considered a window type sign as described
above.
a) Area of sign: Maximum of six (6) square feet.
b) Quantity: Maximum of one (1) display area for any one (1) business
and/or tenant space. For businesses that are corner tenants or individual
properties with two (2) street frontages, may have one (1) display area per
frontage. Businesses and/or tenants with building frontage in excess of forty
(40) feet may have one (1) additional display area.
c) Location: The display area shall be located on the first immediate
window to the right or left of the entrance door. For tenants having a corner
space, the display area shall be located so as to not interfere with visibility
pertaining to safety issues or interfere with any other sign types under this
provision.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
d) Illumination: A display area containing illumination shall meet the
following standards:
1) Quantity: A maximum of one (1) display area containing illumination is
allowed per business regardless of length of store front or corner
location. A maximum of one (1) illuminated sign is allowed in the (1) one
display area.
2) Location: On The first immediate window to the right, left or top of the
primary entrance door only. Illuminated display areas shall not be located
on the sides or rear of buildings.
3) Type: Internal or exposed neon. Sign shall not be externally
illuminated or incorporate LED lighting.
4) Hours: Sign may only be turned on at 5:00 a.m. and shall be turned
off at 11:00 p.m.
5) Movement: The sign shall not flash, blink, rotate, move or contain
animation.
e) Color: All window signs shall utilize colors that are compatible with the
architectural design of the building. Fluorescent or iridescent colors shall not
be allowed.
v. Open/Closed Sign: A sign that identifies if the business is open or closed.
a) Quantity: Maximum of one (1) for any one (1) business and/or tenant
space per street frontage.
b) Illumination: Open/closed sign may be illuminated. Open/closed sign
containing illumination shall meet the following standards:
1) Combinations: If the open/closed sign is part of or attached to a larger
graphic or sign it is considered a display area and shall meet the
standards of illuminated display area.
2) Hours: Sign may only be turned on at 5:00 a.m. and shall be turned off
at 11:00 p.m.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
3) Movement: The sign shall not flash, blink, rotate, move or contain
animation.
1. vi. General Requirements for All Window Signs:
a. AREA OF SIGN:
i. NO MORE THAN 30 PERCENT OF THE WINDOW ON WHICH THE
SIGN IS DISPLAYED.
ii. SIGN COPY ON A WINDOW SIGN WITH LETTERS OR SYMBOLS NO
MORE THAN THREE INCHES HIGH SHALL NOT BE COUNTED AS PART
OF THE SIGN AREA ALLOTMENT WHEN USED FOR THE BUSINESS
NAME, CONTACT AND HOURS.
b. LOCATION:
i. FIRST FLOOR BUILDING WINDOWS ONLY
c. Illumination:
i. Open/Closed signs may be illuminated
ii. A maximum of one (1) six (6) square foot display area containing
illumination is allowed per business regardless of length of store
front or corner location.
iii. Hours: Sign may only be turned on at 5:00 a.m. and shall be turned
off at 11:00 p.m.
iv. Movement: The sign shall not flash, blink, rotate, move or contain
animation.
a) Permits are required for all window signs except for business name/hours
of operation and open/closed signs.
b) No additional permits will be required to continually change the display area
as long as the location of the original permitted area has not changed.
d c) Any off-site advertisement displayed in a window is strictly prohibited
unless otherwise specified in this chapter.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Figure 28-10. Sample illustration showing placement of window signs
Example of a display area containing multiple signs. Only one (1) sign in a
single display area can be illuminated.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19; (O)18-08, 05/16/18; (O)17-02, 02/15/17; (O)16-05, 04/06/16; (O)15-08, 05/20/15)
C. Permanent Signs within a Residential Zoning District
The following permanent signs shall be allowed within a Residential District:
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
1. Entryway Signs
Refer to subsection B.4 of this section.
2. Kiosk Signs
Refer to subsection B.5 of this section.
3. Monument and wall signs for religious institutions, private schools and public
institutions are permitted in residential districts subject to Town approval.
((O)18-08, 05/16/18; (O)11-07, 03/16/11)
Section 28.6 5 Temporary Signs
A. Requirements for All Temporary Signs
1. Any sign that penetrates the ground is subject to blue stake requirements.
2. Temporary signs shall not obscure, be attached to or mimic public traffic control
devices, signage, or appurtenances.
3. Any damage to public or private property caused by signs placed within the
right-of-way shall be the sole responsibility of the sign owner.
4. Standards for temporary sign materials are provided in Section 28.3.A.4, General Sign
Requirements.
((O)16-09, 09/07/16)
B. Temporary Signs in a Commercial/Industrial Zoning District
The following temporary sign types shall be allowed within a Commercial, Industrial District
AND/OR PRIVATE SCHOOL ZONING DISTRICT AND FOR RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS AS SPECIFIED
HEREIN:
1. Banner
a. Requirements for All Banners
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i. Definition: Any sign of light-weight fabric or similar material that is temporarily
mounted to a building or is freestanding.
Iii. Design Standards
b. a) Installation: All banners shall be securely anchored to the wall and/or
parapet wall of the building where the business is located. THE BANNER
SHALL NOT BE HUNG AS TO OBSTRUCT A WALKWAY. IF or, if freestanding,
THE BANNER MUST BE attached to a solid perimeter frame that matches the
banner color. The frame shall be anchored by posts with eyelets fastening the
banner to the frame at two (2) foot maximum spacing, or in such a manner
that the banner is taut and does not fold over. Banners shall not be hung
from another sign structure, landscaping, utility pole, or similar structure.
c. b) Materials: Banners must be made of durable mylar, nylon fabric, or similar
material.
d. c) Banner lettering, images and background colors may be any color,
including black or white, except fluorescent or iridescent colors.
e. d) Lettering shall be neat and legible copy.
b. New Business Banner
A banner may be utilized for the purpose of a new business opening or change of
ownership to promote a new business. For seasonal or special event banner signs,
see subsections B.1.c and d of this section.
i Quantity: One (1) banner per street frontage, per business. No more than two
(2) banners shall be issued to any one (1) new business.
ii. . Area of Sign: Maximum sixty-four (64) square feet.
iii. Height: Not to exceed the roofline of a building.
iv. Location: Must be installed on the site and/or tenant space of the business.
v.. Duration: Banners are allowed for a period of thirty (30) days. One (1)
extension for an additional thirty (30) days may be granted by the Planning and
Zoning Administrator, due to extenuating circumstances. A written request must
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be submitted prior to the first thirty (30) day expiration. No more than one (1)
extension may be granted in a calendar year.
vi. vii. Removal: A banner must be removed after thirty (30) days or if
permanent signage has been installed prior to the expiration of a new business
banner.
c. Seasonal or Event Banner
i. Definition: A seasonal or event banner may be used to advertise a seasonal or
special event in any Commercial/Industrial Zoning District.
ii. Quantity: One (1) freestanding sign per street frontage and/or one (1) wall sign.
A business is allowed a maximum of four (4) permits per calendar year.
iii. Area of Sign: Maximum sixteen (16) square feet for a freestanding sign and
maximum twenty-four (24) square feet for a wall-mounted banner.
iv. Height: Not to exceed four (4) feet from grade for a freestanding sign.
Wall-mounted signs shall not exceed the roofline of a building.
v. Location: On private property where the event is taking place and/or the
merchandise is being sold.
vi. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
vii. Duration: Each permit shall not exceed thirty (30) days.
2. BANNER INSTALLED ON A BUILDING
a. QUANTITY: ONE (1) BANNER PER BUSINESS.
b. AREA OF SIGN: MAXIMUM SIXTY (60) SQUARE FEET.
c. Height: Not to exceed the roofline of a building.
d. LOCATION: MUST BE INSTALLED ON THE BUILDING AND/OR TENANT SPACE OF
THE BUSINESS.
e. DURATION: THE COMBINED TOTAL TIME ALLOWED FOR BOTH WALL AND
FREESTANDING BANNERS IS ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY (120) DAYS PER
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CALENDAR YEAR. THE 120-DAY TIME PERIOD MAY BE DIVIDED INTO NOT LESS
THAN THIRTY (30) CONSECUTIVE CALENDARS DAYS EXCLUDING SPECIAL EVENT
BANNERS.
f. REMOVAL: A BANNER MUST BE REMOVED BY THE EXPIRATION DATE OF THE
PERMIT.
3. BANNER INSTALLED AS FREESTANDING SIGN
a. Quantity: One (1) freestanding sign per business
b. Area of Sign: Maximum sixteen (16) square feet
c. Height: Not to exceed four (4) feet from grade for a freestanding sign.
d. Location: On private property where the event is taking place and/or the
merchandise is being sold. Banner is not allowed in the right-of-way.
e. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
f. DURATION: THE COMBINED TOTAL TIME ALLOWED FOR BOTH WALL AND
FREESTANDING BANNERS IS ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY (120) DAYS PER
CALENDAR YEAR. THE 120-DAY TIME PERIOD MAY BE DIVIDED INTO NOT LESS
THAN THIRTY (30) CONSECUTIVE CALENDARS DAYS EXCLUDING SPECIAL EVENT
BANNERS.
g. REMOVAL: A BANNER MUST BE REMOVED BY THE EXPIRATION DATE OF THE
PERMIT.
4. Three-Day Special Event Banner
i. Definition: A banner may be permitted on the day(s) of a special event, but shall
not be used to advertise any event that exceeds three (3) days in duration.
a. Quantity: One (1) per street frontage. Not to exceed four (4) permits per calendar
year.
b. Area of Sign: Maximum sixty-four (64) SIXTY (60) square feet.
c. Height: Maximum four (4) feet from grade for a freestanding sign. Wall-mounted
signs shall not exceed the building roofline.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
d. Location: On private property where the event is taking place and/or the
merchandise is being sold.
e. Setback: None unless otherwise required for public safety purposes.
f. DURATION: EACH PERMIT SHALL NOT EXCEED THREE (3) CONSECUTIVE DAYS.
5. Construction/Development Sign
a. Definition: A construction sign may only contain the names of the architects,
engineers, contractors, or similar artisans, as well as the owners, financial supporters
and similar individuals or firms associated with the project.
A. b. Quantity: One (1) per street frontage. No one (1) development may have more
than one (1) construction sign on a single street frontage.
B. c. Area of Sign: Maximum thirty-two (32) square feet.
C d. Height: Not to exceed eight (8) feet from grade.
D e. Location: On the property that is being developed.
E f. Setback: None unless otherwise required for public safety purposes.
F g. Removal: All signs must be removed upon the completion of ninety-five percent
(95%) of the development, or within three (3) years from date of permit issuance,
whichever comes first.
6. Flags
a. Definition: Any flag containing distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols, used as a
symbol of government or a political entity. All national and state flags shall be allowed.
a. b. Quantity: Two (2) flag poles for each development and/or individual property.
b. c. Flag Size: The length of the flag shall be no greater than one-quarter (1/4) of
the height of the flag pole.
c. d. Flag Pole Height: No greater than 1.25 times the height of the nearest
primary building.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
d. e. Location: Permitted in any zoning district and only on private property.
e. f. Setback: Located so that the flag does not overhang public right-of-way or
create a public safety hazard.
f. g. Additional Requirements
i. A building permit for the flag pole shall be obtained.
ii. A site plan shall be submitted for review of location and adequate setbacks.
iii. The use of flags for the purpose of advertising or with intent to advertise is
strictly prohibited unless otherwise specified by this Chapter.
7. Real Estate, Lease, Rent and For Sale Signs
a. Definition: Any sign pertaining to the sale, rent, or lease of the premises or portion
of a premises. The sign may be freestanding or wall-mounted, single- and/or
double-faced.
A. Quantity: One (1) sign per street frontage.
B. Area of Sign: Maximum sixteen (16) square feet.
C. Height: Not to exceed eight (8) feet from grade.
D. Location: Upon the property that is being sold, rented or leased.
E. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
F. Permit: Sign permits for real estate, lease, rent, and for sale signs are valid for one
(1) year. The permit may be re-issued in one (1) year increments.
G. Removal: Must be removed within seven (7) days upon the sale, rent, or lease of
the property or expiration of the sign permit.
8. Seasonal Signs
a. Definition: Seasonal signs may include decorations, holiday lights, garland, or
similar treatment oriented toward a holiday event. Holiday banners are allowed in
accordance with subsection B.1.c of this section, Seasonal Banners. Seasonal signs and
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 54 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
decorations shall be temporarily displayed for traditionally accepted civic, patriotic, or
religious holidays.
A. b. Location: On private property and shall not be displayed in such a manner as to
constitute a traffic hazard.
B. c. Removal: Must be removed within ten (10) days of the subject holiday.
C. d. Additional Requirements: A permit is required for all event-related signage under
this Chapter. A permit is not required for any other seasonal decoration.
9. Road Construction Sign
a. Definition: Temporary business identification signage to enhance visibility of
properties with commercial, multifamily or religious institutions during road
construction projects.
a. b. Applicability: Areas that will be directly impacted by a road construction project
as determined by the Town Engineer and Planning and Zoning Administrator.
b. c. Type:
i. Sign may be a banner or rigid material such as wood, metal or similar material.
ii. Single or double faced.
iii. Copy may be modified after issuance of permit within the parameters set forth
in the code.
iv. Any change in sign location will require a new permit.
v. Size of copy must be approved by the Town Engineer to assure safety.
c. d. Quantity:
i. One (1) sign for the commercial property per street frontage impacted by the
road construction.
ii. If frontage is greater than six hundred (600) feet and there is more than one (1)
entrance to the development, a second sign is permitted.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
iii. If frontage is greater than eight hundred (800) feet, one (1) additional sign may
be installed.
d. e. Area of sign:
i. Thirty-two (32) square feet for a commercial property with one (1) to four (4)
owners or business lessees.
ii. Sixty-four (64) square feet for a commercial property with five (5) or more
owners or business lessees.
e. f. Height: Ten (10) feet.
f. g. Location: On private property where the business is located.
g. h. Setback: None, unless additional area is required for utility or road work. Town
Engineer must determine if proposed location is safe and does not interfere with
construction.
h. i. Illumination: None.
i. j. Color: Lettering and background may be any color except fluorescent or
iridescent.
j. k. Duration: Length of time the sign is permitted will be determined by the Town
Engineer and Planning and Zoning Administrator and shall not exceed substantial
completion of the road construction project.
k. l. The Town Engineer and Planning and Zoning Administrator shall be permitted
to administratively approve modifications to road construction signage if each of the
following criteria have been satisfied:
i. There are unique circumstances due to road design or construction.
ii. The proposed changes do not have a greater overall impact than the allowed
sign type.
iii. The proposed changes are based on existing standards from an allowed sign
type in the zoning code.
10. Balloon(s)
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
a. Definition: An airtight bag made of thin rubber or other lightweight material
inflated with air or lighter-than-air gas that is anchored to the ground, a building or
structure with ropes, a post, wires and/or string to attract attention to the public.
A. b. Use: Allowed for a new business opening or change of ownership to promote a
new business.
B. c. Quantity: Unlimited.
C. d. Area of Sign: Maximum eighteen (18) inches tall and standard round balloon
shape.
D e. Height: Not to exceed eight (8) feet in height (eight (8) feet includes balloon and
tethering device) or shall not exceed a cumulative height of fifteen (15) feet from grade
if the balloon is attached to a permanent structure such as a wall or monument sign.
Balloons shall not be attached to the roof of a building.
E f. Location: On private property where the business is located.
F g. Duration: Maximum of five (5) consecutive days from the date of grand opening
or issuance of sign permit related to change of ownership.
G h. Color: Balloon and copy may be any color.
H i. Illumination: None.
I j. Additional Requirements
i. Balloons shall not interfere with sight visibility or vehicular and/or pedestrian
access and shall be secured at all times.
ii. Balloons shall be kept under control at all times and not allowed to be released
into the sky.
iii. Littering laws as detailed in Town Code Article 9-4 shall apply to any balloon
released into the sky and/or allowed to deflate onto the ground.
11. A-Frame Signs
a. Use: Intended to direct pedestrian traffic and shall not be solely oriented toward
vehicular traffic.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
b. Quantity: One (1) per business.
c. Area of Sign: Maximum six (6) square feet per side. Maximum of two (2) sides.
d. Height: Not to exceed forty-two (42) inches.
e. Location: On private property where the business is located within a commercial
development with shared parking and access or a single parcel.
f. Additional Requirements
i. Placement of sign shall allow for a four (4) foot unobstructed pathway for
pedestrians.
ii. The sign shall not be placed in such a manner as to attract vehicular traffic
from public roads (Figure 28.11).
iii. The sign shall not be displayed in a manner that will create a public safety
hazard.
iv. Access ramps or vehicular sight lines shall not be obstructed.
v. Landscaping shall not be removed, altered or damaged by the placement of the
signs.
g. Illumination: None.
h. Hours: During operating hours of the associated business.
i. Design:
i. The sign shall be self-supporting and not be attached to railings, posts, fencing
or other structures.
ii. Carts, wheels or other devices that will make the A-frame mobile shall not be
attached to the sign.
iii. Attachments such as flags, pennants, balloons or additional signs shall not be
affixed to the A-frame.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
iv. The sign appearance shall be professional and may not contain cloth or paper
surfaces.
v. The sign shall be neat and legible.
Figure 28.11. A-Frame Sign Locations
((O)17-08, 10/18/17; (O)16-09, 09/07/16; (O)15-08, 05/20/15; (O)14-14, )
C. Temporary Signs in a Residential Zoning District
The following temporary signs shall be allowed within a residential zoning district.
1. Flags (Refer to subsection B.3 of this section, Flags)
2. MODEL HOME/CUSTOM HOME SALES LOT SUBDIVISION SIGNS.
a. Construction/Development signs (refer to subsection B.5 of this section).
b. Off-site Real Estates signs (refer to subsection 28.7 6 of this section).
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 59 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
1. Kiosk signs (refer to subsection 28.6 of this section)
2. Model Home Banners
a. Definition: Banners for a model home may be utilized for the sole purpose of a
sales event or to identify a new model home. Three (3) day, seasonal or event banners
are permitted at model homes in accordance with subsections B.1.c and d of this
section.
b. Quantity: One (1) banner per model home.
c. Area of Banner: Maximum thirty-two (32) square feet.
d. Location: Shall be on private property where the model home complex is located.
The banner may be wall-mounted or freestanding.
e. Height: A banner attached to the model home shall not extend above the roofline.
A freestanding banner shall not exceed five (5) feet from grade.
f. Setback: None for a freestanding banner unless otherwise specified for public safety
purposes.
g. Duration: The banner shall be mounted only on Saturdays and Sundays for one
hundred four (104) days. The banner may be permitted for an additional sixteen (16)
days for the purpose of opening the model home or model home complex.
h. Removal: The banner may be placed not more than one (1) day before the
advertised event, and must be removed within one (1) day after the event.
3. Model Home Complex or Custom Home Lot Sales Office Signs
In addition to model home banners (subsection B.2 of this section), the following types of
signs are permitted for model home complexes or custom home lot sales offices:
a. Model Home On-Site Signs
i. Definition: Individual model units may have a single model identification sign
and/or an informational sign for the model home complex or custom home lot
sales office, and a directional sign to direct people to available parking at, or near,
the model home/custom home sales office. Seasonal event and model home
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
banners are permitted for model home complexes or home lot sales offices in
accordance with subsection B.2.c of this section, Construction/Development Signs,
subject to the standards of subsection A.4 of this section.
ii. Quantity: One (1) identification sign for model home units, one (1)
construction/development sign, and one (1) parking lot directional sign.
iii. Area of Signs: Individual model units maximum four (4) square feet. Model
home complex/custom home lot sales office maximum sixteen (16) square feet.
Parking lot directional sign maximum six (6) square feet.
iv. Height: Individual model units maximum three (3) feet; informational model
home complex/custom home lot sales office maximum five (5) feet; parking
directional sign maximum three (3) feet from grade.
v. Location: Within the model home complex/custom home lot sales office and
shall be located so as to not interfere with the flow of traffic or within a sight
visibility triangle. The parking directional sign shall be located at the driveway
entrance to the designated parking area. Signs may be freestanding,
wall-mounted, or integrated into an awning type structure.
vi. Removal: All signs must be removed within seven (7) days after the closing of
the sales office or model home office.
b. Model Home Off-Site Signs (Interior and Exterior to the Subdivision)
The following off-site signs are allowed interior to a subdivision:
i. Off-Site within the Subdivision
a) Definition: Signs within a subdivision which direct traffic to the model
home complex or custom home lot sales office.
b) Quantity: The number of signs allowed is based on the number of
intersections or changes of direction of subdivision streets, as approved and
deemed necessary by the Planning and Zoning Administrator or Town
Engineer.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
c) Area of Sign: Maximum one and one-half (1-1/2) feet by two (2) feet, or
three (3) square feet.
d) Height: Maximum allowable height thirty (30) inches.
e) Location: An interior, off-site sign shall be located along streets within the
subdivision. Such signs shall be located on private property with the
permission of the property owner.
f) Setback: None unless otherwise required.
g) Removal: All signs shall be removed within seven (7) days of the closure of
the sales office or model home office.
4. Model Home Complex Flags
a. Definition: Individual flags, attached to freestanding poles that may be
multi-colored and/or contain the corporate logo for a model home complex sales
office.
A. b. Quantity: Maximum of four (4) poles/flags.
B. c. Area of Flag: Maximum fifteen (15) square feet.
C. d. Height: Flag poles shall not exceed twenty (20) feet from grade.
D. e. Location: Flag poles may be located within the model home complex or parking
area, subject to Town Engineer approval.
E. f. Setback: Minimum five (5) feet from the property line or determined by the Town
Engineer.
F. g. Removal: All flags and flag poles must be removed within seven (7) days after the
closing of the model home office.
G. h. Additional Requirements
i. A building permit must be obtained for flag poles.
ii. Flag poles may not be illuminated.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
5. On-Site Subdivision Signs
a. Definition: The sign shall identify a development in progress and may include: the
name of the development and/or subdivision; the name and phone number of the
developer or agent; price range, residential type, and number of units to be available
and essential contact information for the developer or agent. All other associated
agencies or firms may be displayed on the sign, such as the engineer, architects, or
firms providing financing, and principal contracting firms.
b. Quantity: One (1) freestanding sign per subdivision. The Planning and Zoning
Administrator may approve a second on-site subdivision sign if deemed necessary.
c. Area of Sign: Maximum forty (40) square feet.
d. Height: Maximum of ten (10) feet. The height may be increased to twelve (12) feet
by approval of the Planning and Zoning Administrator if visibility of the sign is
obstructed.
e. Location: Must be located at the access point on private property with the
permission from the property owner.
f. Setback: None unless otherwise required for public safety purposes.
g. Removal: Within seven (7) days of the sale of one hundred percent (100%) of the
lots of the subdivision or one hundred eighty (180) days after closure of sales office,
whichever comes first. Signs may remain on unsold lots in accordance with subsection
C.6 of this section.
3. MODEL HOME COMPLEX BANNERS
A. THREE (3) DAY, SEASONAL OR EVENT BANNERS IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBSECTIONS
28.5 OF THIS SECTION.
B. SATURDAY AND SUNDAY BANNERS ARE PERMITTED AT MODEL HOME COMPLEXES
1. QUANTITY: ONE (1) PER MODEL HOME.
2. AREA: MAXIMUM THIRTY-TWO (32) SQUARE FEET.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
3. LOCATION: SHALL BE ON PRIVATE PROPERTY OF THE MODEL HOME COMPLEX. MAY
BE WALL-MOUNTED OR FREESTANDING.
4. HEIGHT: WALL MOUNTED SHALL NOT EXTEND ABOVE THE ROOFLINE.
FREESTANDING SHALL NOT EXCEED FIVE (5) FEET FROM GRADE.
5. SETBACK: NONE.
6. DURATION:
a) SHALL BE MOUNTED ONLY ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS FOR ONE HUNDRED
FOUR (104) DAYS.
b) MAY BE PERMITTED FOR AN ADDITIONAL SIXTEEN (16) DAYS FOR THE PURPOSE
OF OPENING THE MODEL HOME OR MODEL HOME COMPLEX.
7. REMOVAL: MAY BE PLACED NOT MORE THAN ONE (1) DAY BEFORE THE ADVERTISED
EVENT AND MUST BE REMOVED WITHIN ONE (1) DAY AFTER THE EVENT.
4. MODEL HOME COMPLEX ADVERTISING FLAGS
a. QUANTITY: MAXIMUM OF FOUR (4) POLES/FLAGS.
b. AREA OF FLAG: MAXIMUM FIFTEEN (15) SQUARE FEET.
c. HEIGHT: POLES SHALL NOT EXCEED TWENTY (20) FEET FROM GRADE.
d. LOCATION: MAY BE LOCATED WITHIN THE MODEL HOME COMPLEX OR PARKING
AREA, SUBJECT TO TOWN ENGINEER APPROVAL.
e. SETBACK: MINIMUM FIVE (5) FEET FROM THE PROPERTY LINE OR DETERMINED
BY THE TOWN ENGINEER.
f. REMOVAL: MUST BE REMOVED WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS AFTER THE CLOSING OF
THE MODEL HOME OFFICE.
g. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
a) A BUILDING PERMIT MUST BE OBTAINED FOR FLAG POLES.
b) MAY NOT BE ILLUMINATED.
5. MODEL HOME COMPLEX ON-SITE SIGNS
a. LOCATION: WITHIN THE MODEL HOME COMPLEX/CUSTOM HOME LOT SALES
OFFICE AND SHALL BE LOCATED SO AS TO NOT INTERFERE WITH THE FLOW OF
TRAFFIC OR WITHIN A SIGHT VISIBILITY TRIANGLE. SIGNS MAY BE
FREESTANDING, WALL-MOUNTED, OR INTEGRATED INTO AN AWNING TYPE
STRUCTURE.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
b. REMOVAL: ALL SIGNS MUST BE REMOVED WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS AFTER THE
CLOSING OF THE SALES OFFICE OR MODEL HOME OFFICE.
6. INDIVIDUAL MODEL UNIT IDENTIFICATION SIGN
a. QUANTITY: ONE (1) IDENTIFICATION SIGN FOR MODEL HOME UNITS
b. AREA OF SIGNS: INDIVIDUAL MODEL UNITS MAXIMUM FOUR (4) SQUARE
FEET
c. HEIGHT: MAXIMUM THREE (3) FEET;
7. INFORMATIONAL SIGN
a. QUANTITY: 1 PER MODEL HOME COMPLEX
b. AREA: MAXIMUM SIXTEEN (16) SQUARE FEET
c. HEIGHT: MAXIMUM FIVE (5) FEET
8. PARKING LOT DIRECTIONAL SIGN
a. QUANTITY: ONE (1) PARKING LOT DIRECTIONAL SIGN.
b. AREA: MAXIMUM SIX (6) SQUARE FEET.
c. HEIGHT: MAXIMUM THREE (3) FEET FROM GRADE.
d. LOCATION: SHALL BE LOCATED AT THE DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE TO THE
DESIGNATED PARKING AREA.
9. OFF-SITE SIGNS (INTERIOR TO THE SUBDIVISION)
a. QUANTITY: THE NUMBER OF SIGNS ALLOWED IS BASED ON THE NUMBER OF
INTERSECTIONS OR CHANGES OF DIRECTION OF SUBDIVISION STREETS, AS
APPROVED AND DEEMED NECESSARY BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING
ADMINISTRATOR OR TOWN ENGINEER.
b. AREA OF SIGN: ONE AND ONE-HALF (1-1/2) FEET BY TWO (2) FEET, OR THREE (3)
SQUARE FEET.
c. HEIGHT: HEIGHT THIRTY (30) INCHES.
d. LOCATION: AN INTERIOR, OFF-SITE SIGN SHALL BE LOCATED ALONG STREETS
WITHIN THE SUBDIVISION. SUCH SIGNS SHALL BE LOCATED ON PRIVATE
PROPERTY WITH THE PERMISSION OF THE PROPERTY OWNER.
e. SETBACK: NONE UNLESS OTHERWISE REQUIRED.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
f. REMOVAL: ALL SIGNS SHALL BE REMOVED WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS OF THE
CLOSURE OF THE SALES OFFICE OR MODEL HOME OFFICE.
10. ON-SITE SUBDIVISION SIGNS
a. QUANTITY: ONE (1) FREESTANDING SIGN PER SUBDIVISION. THE PLANNING AND
ZONING ADMINISTRATOR MAY APPROVE A SECOND ON-SITE SUBDIVISION SIGN IF
DEEMED NECESSARY.
b. AREA OF SIGN: FORTY (40) SQUARE FEET.
c. HEIGHT: TEN (10) FEET. THE HEIGHT MAY BE INCREASED TO TWELVE (12) FEET BY
APPROVAL OF THE PLANNING AND ZONING ADMINISTRATOR IF VISIBILITY OF THE
SIGN IS OBSTRUCTED.
d. LOCATION: AT THE ACCESS POINT ON PRIVATE PROPERTY WITH THE PERMISSION
FROM THE PROPERTY OWNER.
e. SETBACK: NONE.
f. REMOVAL: WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS OF THE SALE OF ONE HUNDRED PERCENT (100%)
OF THE LOTS OF THE SUBDIVISION OR ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY (180) DAYS AFTER
CLOSURE OF SALES OFFICE, WHICHEVER COMES FIRST. SIGNS MAY REMAIN ON
UNSOLD LOTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBSECTION C.6 OF THIS SECTION.
11. Real Estate, Lease, Rent, and For Sale Signs
a. On-Site Signs
i. Definition: Signs to advertise existing individual single-family residences for sale,
lease, or rent. The sign may be a single or double-faced, freestanding sign.
a. ii. Quantity: One (1) for each street frontage which abuts the property.
b. iii. Area of Sign: Four (4) square feet.
c. iv. Height: Maximum of six (6) feet from grade. The Planning and Zoning
Administrator may approve heights up to ten (10) feet, if warranted.
d. v. Location: Only on the lot or site of the dwelling offered for sale, lease, or
rent.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
e. vi. Setback: None unless otherwise required.
f. vii. Permit: Sign permits for real estate, lease, rent, and for sale signs are
valid for one (1) year. The permit may be re-issued.
g. viii. Removal: Within seven (7) days upon the sale, lease, or rent of the
property.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19; (O)12-04, 03/07/12; (O)11-24, 10/05/11; (O)11-07, 03/16/11)
Section 28.7 6 Permanent Signs on Public Property
A. Permitted Permanent Signs on Public Property
Sign Type Location Quantity Size
Maximum
Height
Illumination Duration
Permit
Required/Permit
Type
Additional
Standards
Kiosk Right-of-way
of an
arterial or
collector
street
Per the
contract
approved
by the
Town
Panels:
8"
wide
by 4'
long
Base:
5' wide
Base 8' None Until less
than 3
placards
are on
the sign
Yes: ROW permit Per
contract
Monument
or
Entryway
Right-of-way
of a major
or minor
arterial road
as defined
in the
Town’s
General
Plan
One of the
signs
allowed by
Section
28.4 5.B.4
or 28. 4
5.B.7 may
be located
in the
right-of-way
of each
street
Refer to Section 28.4 5.B.4,
Entryway sign, or 28.4 5.B.7,
Monument sign
N/A Yes:
• License
agreement
• Council
approval
• Sign permit
• ADOT approval
if applicable
Refer to
subsection
B of this
section.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Sign Type Location Quantity Size
Maximum
Height
Illumination Duration
Permit
Required/Permit
Type
Additional
Standards
frontage
B. Monument or Entryway Sign Standards for Location in the Right-of-Way
1. Location Standards
a. A right-of-way depth of at least one hundred (100) feet shall be required between
the paved surface of the road (including turn lane and shoulder) and the subject
property line. Areas where the right-of-way depth changes for drainage ways, bridges
and similar structures shall not be included in the one hundred (100) foot minimum.
b. Sufficient evidence shall be provided demonstrating that sign locations normally
allowed by the Zoning Code do not provide effective and safe wayfinding as detailed in
the intersection site distance detail of the Town of Oro Valley’s Subdivision Street
Standards and Policies Manual.
c. The one hundred (100) foot depth requirement, between the paved surface and the
subject property line, may be reduced to not less than twenty (20) feet if the following
conditions apply:
i. The vehicular speed of the road combined with the clear zones and adequate
visibility defined by the Town’s sight visibility triangle criteria are met.
ii. The intersection sight distance table demonstrates the sign could not be safely
seen. Self-imposed conditions, such as built structures built on the site, will not
qualify for a reduction of the distance requirement.
d. The sign shall be located no more than fifty (50) feet from either side of an entrance
to the property associated with the sign.
e. No electronic message boards shall be placed on a sign in the right-of-way.
2. Upon satisfaction of the Town Engineer and Planning and Zoning Administrator that
the sign has met all safety and location requirements, the request will be forwarded for
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 68 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
review and approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Town Council, in
addition to the required license agreement, for placement in the right-of-way.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19)
Section 28.8 7 Temporary Signs on Public Property
Table 28-1. Permitted Temporary Signs on Public Property
Size
(Maximums)
Location Quantity Maximum
Height from
Grade
Duration Permit Type
Required
Applicable
Standards
4 square feet Right-of-way 1 per change
of direction
30" 7:00 a.m. to
7:00 p.m.
Right-of-way
permit 3-day,
120-day,
annual
Refer to
subsections A
through E and
G of this
section
9 square feet Designated
sign zones
only
1 per sign
zone
3' 6" N/A No Refer to
subsections A
and D through
G of this
section
16 square
feet
Right-of-way 4 at any
given time
5' 16 days Yes: ROW
permit and
installation
request
A sign 5 square
feet or less will
not require
installation by
the Town. Also
refer to
subsections
A through E
and G of this
section
Sign walker
20 square
Right-of-way N/A N/A 8:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m.
No Refer to
subsections
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 69 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Size
(Maximums)
Location Quantity Maximum
Height from
Grade
Duration Permit Type
Required
Applicable
Standards
feet
maximum, 4
square feet
minimum
B.1.a, B.1.c and
B.1.d of this
section
Sign walker per
the standards
of the Arizona
State Statute
A. General Requirements for All Temporary Signs in the Right-of-Way
1. A sign that penetrates the ground is subject to Blue Stake verification.
2. Temporary signs shall not obscure, be attached to or mimic public traffic control
devices, signage, public property or appurtenances.
3. Any damage to public or private property caused by signs placed within the
right-of-way shall be the sole responsibility of the sign owner.
4. Standards for temporary sign materials are provided in Section 28.3.A.4, General Sign
Requirements.
5. Any sign that would require installation by the Public Works Department is also subject
to installation fees.
6. Signs that require a permit must have the permit number written on the sign.
B. Location
1. Signs shall not be placed:
a. Within a median.
b. On a sidewalk, multi-use path or pedestrian access ramp.
c. In a construction zone.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
d. In any area that may cause or create a traffic hazard or obscure any sight distances
and must maintain the required “clear zone” as approved by the Town Engineer.
e. No signs may be placed in a right-of-way controlled by the Arizona Department of
Transportation (ADOT).
C. Setback
1. Temporary signs shall be placed a minimum of ten (10) feet from the paved surface of
the roadway.
a. If a sidewalk, multi-use path or trail is located within that ten (10) foot setback, the
sign must be placed along the outside edge of the sidewalk, multi-use path or trail
without projecting over the said trail/path.
2. Temporary signs placed next to a street with a speed limit of twenty-five (25) miles
per hour or less may:
a. Be placed no closer than five (5) feet from paved surface of roadway.
b. If a sidewalk, multi-use path or trail is within the five (5) foot setback, the sign must
be placed along the outside edge of the sidewalk, multi-use path or trail without
projecting over the said trail/path.
D. Illumination
1. None.
E. Design
1. May be single- or double-faced.
2. Must be clear and legible.
3. Shall be neat and professional in appearance.
4. May include H-frame, I-frame and A-frame sign types.
F. Designated Sign Zone Requirements
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 71 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
1. Temporary sign zones as established by the Town are three hundred (300) to five
hundred (500) square feet in size and no more than two (2) zones may be located at or
near the intersection.
a. Within the Town Hall Complex: Such zone shall be no greater than two hundred
(200) square feet. Moreover, temporary sign zones shall not be located within one
hundred fifty (150 feet) of any entrance to the Town Hall Complex.
b. At or near Town parks: temporary sign zones shall not be located within one
hundred fifty (150) feet of any entrance to Town parks.
c. Approved temporary sign zones are depicted on the “Temporary Sign Zone Map.”
G. Signs protected by the Arizona Revised Statutes shall be allowed within the limits of the
State Statute.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19)
Section 28.9 Temporary Public and Quasi-Public Signs
A. Definition
Announcement signs, along with special event type signs, shall be allowed for religious
institutions, schools, community centers and any other public or institutional buildings within a
commercial or residential district. Signs may be freestanding and/or wall-mounted, made of
paper, cardboard, plastic, or fabric. Banners used for public and quasi-public purposes shall
comply with Sections 28.6.B.1.a and c, Banners. All copy, color, and design shall not adversely
affect the order, amenity, or residential enjoyment of the neighborhood.
B. Quantity
Each institution is allowed one (1) wall sign and one (1) announcement sign per street frontage.
Each institution may also apply for one (1) wall and one (1) freestanding, special event sign per
street frontage.
C. Area of Sign
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 72 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A religious institution wall-mounted temporary sign shall not exceed thirty (30) square feet. A
religious institution announcement sign shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet. Other
public institutions shall be allowed a temporary wall sign of thirty (30) square feet and an
announcement sign of twenty-four (24) square feet. Institutional special event signs shall not
exceed thirty (30) square feet.
D. Height
All wall-mounted signs shall not exceed the roofline of a building. All freestanding signs shall
not exceed eight (8) feet from grade. All special event signs shall not exceed a maximum height
of six (6) feet from grade.
E. Location
All signs shall be placed on private property. Special event signs shall be located on the
premises of the institution or organization having the event.
F. Setback
None unless otherwise specified.
G. Additional Requirements
1. Any sign may be single- or double-faced.
2. No sign shall be allowed to illuminate.
3. All signs shall be soundly constructed and neat in appearance.
4. The application for a public or quasi-public sign shall include a statement and diagram
noting the nature of the special event and shall indicate the location, size, copy, and colors
of the proposed sign.
5. A permit for a public or quasi-public sign shall be valid for no more than two (2) weeks.
No more than three (3) permits shall be issued to any institution or organization in a
calendar year.
H. Removal
Any signs announcing a special event shall be removed within one (1) day after the event is
completed.
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 73 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Section 28.9 8 Temporary Public and Quasi-Public Signs
A. Duration:
i. A permit for a public or quasi-public sign shall be valid for no more than two (2)
weeks.
ii. No more than three (3) permits shall be issued to any institution or organization
in a calendar year.
B. Design: Signs may be freestanding and/or wall-mounted, made of paper, cardboard,
plastic, or fabric. Banners used for public and quasi-public purposes shall comply with
Sections 28.5 6.B.1.a and c, Banners. All copy, color, and design shall not adversely affect
the order, amenity, or residential enjoyment of the neighborhood.
C. Wall sign
1. Quantity: One (1) per street frontage
2. Area of sign for religious institution: Thirty (30) square feet
3. Height: Shall not exceed the roofline of the building
D. Announcement sign
1. Quantity: One (1) per street frontage
2. Area of sign for religious institution: Twenty-four (24) square feet
3. Area of sign for other public institutions: Twenty-four (24) square feet
4. Height: Shall not exceed eight (8) feet from grade
E. Special Event
1. Quantity: One (1) wall sign
2. Quantity: One (1) freestanding sign
3. Area of sign for institutional: Thirty (30) square feet
4. Height: Six (6) feet from grade
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 74 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
F. Location: All signs shall be placed on private property. Special event signs shall be
located on the premises of the institution or organization having the event.
G. Setback: None
G. Additional Requirements
1. Any sign may be single- or double-faced.
2. No sign shall be allowed to illuminate.
3. All signs shall be soundly constructed and neat in appearance.
4. The application for a public or quasi-public sign shall include a statement and diagram
noting the nature of the special event and shall indicate the location, size, copy, and colors
of the proposed sign.
H. Removal
Any signs announcing a special event shall be removed within one (1) day after the event is
completed.
Section 28.10 9 Prohibited Signs
A. Prohibited Permanent and Temporary Signs
The following permanent and temporary signs shall not be allowed on any property or public
right-of-way and are prohibited unless otherwise specified within this chapter.
1. Billboards;
2. Electronic message centers, except as provided by Sections 28.4 5.B.7, 9, 10 and 11;
3. Exposed neon signs, except as provided by Section 28.4 5.B.14;
4. Flashing lights;
5. Garage sale signs, except as provided by Section 28.7;
6. Inflatable signs, except as provided by Section 28.5 6.B.7;
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
7. Marquee signs;
8. Moving/animated signs; except barber-type animated signs are allowed for
barbershops during business hours only;
9. Obscene signs;
10. Off-site advertising on public property;
11. Off-site signs;
12. Pennant signs;
13. Portable signs (sandwich board, etc.), except as provided in Section 28.5 6.B.8;
14. Projecting signs;
15. Roof signs;
16. Search lights;
17. Signs attached to any physical public property;
18. Signs in the median;
19. Vehicle signs.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19; (O)18-08, 05/16/18; (O)16-09, 09/07/16; (O)15-08, 05/20/15; (O)12-04, 03/07/12;
(O)11-07, 03/16/11. Formerly 28.9)
Section 28.11 10 Exempted Signs
A. Code Limitations
1. Nothing contained herein shall prevent the erection, construction and maintenance of
the following:
a. Official traffic, street identification, or roadway improvement signs.
b. Fire or police signs, signals, or devices to alert the public of safety hazards.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
c. Markings of the State of Arizona and/or Town of Oro Valley or other authorized
agency.
d. Official notices as required by law.
B. Exempted Permanent and Temporary Signs
1. The following signs shall be exempt from the application and permit regulations of this
Chapter, although an electrical or building permit may be required:
a. Address Identification Signs: Signs which display numerals, street names, drives,
circles, or similar information which gives direction to residents, buildings, complexes,
apartments, commercial sites, tenants spaces or other locations.
b. Governmental signs for identification of public agencies such as traffic, public
transit, and public information.
c. Historical Marker: A sign locating and identifying a historical interest or site.
d. Informational/service signs including official notices of court; public office and legal
notices posted for Town meetings; as well as safety-related informational signs located
on service station pumps.
e. Interior Signs: Signs which are displayed within a concealed area such as a tenant
space or building and cannot be seen from the exterior by the public.
f. Memorial Sign: A sign, table, or plaque memorializing a person, event, or site.
g. Noncommercial signs on private property that are not related to business or
commerce and are no more than nine (9) square feet in area and three (3) feet in
height.
h. Residential Signs: Name and address of occupants.
i. Traffic Sign: A sign used solely to define and streamline the flow of vehicular or
pedestrian traffic so as to minimize congestion and promote safety.
j. Warning Signs: Warning and instructional signs such as “No Trespassing” shall be
exempt from permits and shall not be installed on utility poles or similar structures.
Chapter 28 Signs | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 77 of 77
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
((O)19-06, 07/31/19; (O)11-07, 03/16/11. Formerly 28.10)
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 1 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
CHAPTER 31
DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this ordinance, certain terms and words are hereby defined. Words used in
the present tense shall include the future; the singular number shall include the plural and the
plural shall include the singular; the word “building” shall include the word “structure,” the word
“lot” shall include the word “plot”; the word “may” is permissive and the word “shall” is
mandatory, further, the word “or” shall mean “either” and the word “and” shall mean “in
conjunction with.” Zone shall mean district.
ABANDONED SIGN
A SIGN WHICH ADVERTISES, IDENTIFIES OR GIVES NOTICE OF A BUSINESS WHICH IS NO
LONGER IN OPERATION OR AN ACTIVITY WHICH HAS ALREADY OCCURRED.
Abutting
The condition of two (2) adjoining properties having a common property line or boundary
including cases where two (2) or more lots adjoining only a corner or corners, but not including
cases where adjoining lots are separated by a street or alley.
Access or Access Way
The place, means, or way by which pedestrians and vehicles shall have safe, adequate, and
usable ingress and egress to a property or use as required by this ordinance.
Access Drive
The drive that allows vehicles ingress and egress from a site.
Access Road
A road within one (1) mile of the grading site, designated on the approved grading plan, and
used during grading, for the transport of grading equipment, hauling of fill and other equivalent
traffic to and from the grading site.
Accessory Building
A building, the use of which is customarily incidental to that of a dominant use by the occupants
of the main building or by their non-paying guests and employees.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 2 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Building Heights for Accessory Buildings
Accessory Use
A use customarily subordinate to the main use of the lot or building.
Land Use for a Distribution Center
Food Trucks
Acre
A land area measuring forty three thousand five hundred sixty (43,560) square feet.
Active Restoration
The process of taking specific and intentional actions to re-establish natural processes,
vegetation, and habitat of an ecosystem.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Adjacent
The condition of being near to or close to, but not necessarily having a common dividing line
(e.g., two (2) properties that are separated only by a street or alley shall be considered as
adjacent to one another).
Adjusted Gross Acreage
The total acreage contained within a development, less acreage in required arterial streets,
drainageways, and existing permanent land uses.
AEZ
An abbreviation for the Airport Environs Zone as established by the Compatible Use Zone Map.
A-FRAME SIGN
A HINGED OR SELF-SUPPORTING UPRIGHT SIGN CONSTRUCTED OF DURABLE MATERIALS AND
CONNECTED SO AS TO MAINTAIN AN “A” SHAPE OR SIMILAR STRUCTURE.
ADVERTISING
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 3 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A SIGN PRIMARILY LISTING PRODUCTS SOLD OR SERVICES OFFERED, OR PRODUCTS
MANUFACTURED ON THE PREMISES.
Agricultural Building
A structure designed and constructed to only house farm implements, hay, grain, poultry,
live-stock, or other horticultural products. This structure shall not be a place of human
habitation or a place of employment where agricultural products are processed, treated, or
packaged; nor shall it be a place used by the public.
Aircraft
An airborne vehicle capable of carrying at least one (1) person and shall include, but not be
limited to, airplanes, helicopters, rotorcraft, gliders, hang-gliders, motorized or non-motorized
balloons, dirigibles, and blimps.
Airport/Airstrip
An area which is used, or is intended to be used, primarily for the takeoff and landing of aircraft
and any appurtenant areas which are used, or intended to be used, for airport buildings or
facilities, including open spaces, taxiways and tie-down areas, hangars and other accessory
buildings.
Alley
A public way, which affords only a secondary means of vehicular access to abutting property
and is not intended for general traffic circulation. An alley line shall mean the centerline of an
alley right-of-way as determined by the Town Engineer.
Alteration
A change, addition, or modification in construction, structure, or occupancy.
Amateur Radio Operator
A Federally licensed member of the amateur radio service, which is a voluntary, noncommercial
communication service, particularly with respect to providing emergency communications.
Ambient Sound
Sound from all normal existing sources near and far at a given location, including the noise
source being evaluated.
Amendment
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 4 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A change in the wording, context, or substance of this code, an addition or deletion or a change
in the district boundaries or classification upon the district map which imposes any regulation
not heretofore imposed or removed or modifies any such regulations heretofore imposed.
Analogous Use
A use which is substantially similar to the permitted uses.
Ancillary
Uses, whether permitted or conditional, subordinate or secondary to primary, permitted land
uses.
Animal Services
A service providing for the care and well-being of animals or pets, which may include veterinary
services (including ancillary short-term boarding and lodging), pet grooming, and the sale of
pets and pet-related products.
Animation
The movement or the optical illusion of movement of a design, or pictorial segment, including
the movement of any illumination or the flashing or varying of light intensity. THE AUTOMATIC
CHANGING OF ALL OR PART OF THE FACING OF THE SIGN. THE MOVEMENT OF A SIGN SET IN
MOTION BY THE ATMOSPHERE.
Antenna
A system of poles, panels, rods, reflecting discs or similar devices used for the transmission or
reception of radio frequency signals. Any device, including DBS satellite dishes, used to receive
signals from direct broadcast satellites (DBS); multi-channel multi-point distribution providers
(MMDS); and television broadcast stations (TVBS).
Antenna, Ground-Mounted
An antenna with its supports placed directly on the ground.
Apartments
A residential use which is occupied as the home or residence of three (3) or more families living
independently of each other.
Approval
Written notice by the Town accepting the design, progress or completion of work.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 5 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Approved Plan
The most current plan which bears the authorized signature of review and acceptance by the
Town.
Approved Testing Agency
A testing lab equipped to perform and certify the tests required by this code and whose testing
operations are controlled and monitored by a civil engineer.
Area Lighting
Lighting designed primarily to illuminate an area of a development and may coincidentally
illuminate one (1) or more sign faces.
Art Gallery
An establishment for the display and/or sale of fine art, crafts, photography, or other art-related
work.
Artifact
An object which is a product of human modification, or objects which have been transported to
a site by people. In this Town, artifacts over fifty (50) years are protected by Section 27.10.
Artist
An individual generally recognized by critics and peers as a professional, full-time practitioner
of the visual arts, as judged by the quality of that professional practitioner’s body of work,
education, experience, past commissions, exhibition record, publications, and production of
artwork.
((O)14-02, 01/15/14; (O)08-23, 12/03/08)
Arts and Culture Use
A use providing display or collection of historical, artistic, literary, and/or scientific, or other
similar objects for public appreciation, including museums or art galleries. Cultural uses may
include an ancillary restaurant or gift shop.
Assisted Living Home
A dwelling unit used as a primary residence for ten (10) or fewer residents who receive
supervisory care services, personal care services or directed care services on a continual basis.
((O)15-16, 11/08/15)
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 6 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Assurances
Monies or third party agreement with an agency authorized to do business in the State of
Arizona guaranteeing the performance on the installation of all required improvements.
Attached
Structural roof components, of the same type and color of roofing material, that joins, ties or
connects one structure to another.
((O)18-15, 10/03/18)
Average Cross Slope
The calculated average of slopes across a lot or parcel, not including slopes in excess of fifteen
percent (15%).
AWNING SIGN
DEFINITION: A SIGN WHICH IS PLACED ON, OR INTEGRATED INTO, FABRIC OR OTHER MATERIAL
CANOPIES, WHICH IS MOUNTED ON THE EXTERIOR WALL OF A BUILDING. SIGN COPY AFFIXED
TO AN AWNING MAY ONLY DISPLAY THE NAME OF THE BUSINESS AND/OR ADDRESS.
Background Sound
Sound from all existing sources near and far that may interfere with a sound pressure level
measurement, not to include the noise source being evaluated.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Balcony
A portion of a building projecting into the required yard with a floor height of not less than four
(4) feet above grade.
BALLOON(S)
DEFINITION: AN AIRTIGHT BAG MADE OF THIN RUBBER OR OTHER LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIAL INFLATED
WITH AIR OR LIGHTER-THAN-AIR GAS THAT IS ANCHORED TO THE GROUND, A BUILDING OR
STRUCTURE WITH ROPES, A POST, WIRES AND/OR STRING TO ATTRACT ATTENTION TO THE PUBLIC.
Bank
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 7 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
See “Financial Services.”
BANNER
DEFINITION: ANY SIGN OF LIGHT-WEIGHT FABRIC OR SIMILAR MATERIAL THAT IS TEMPORARILY
MOUNTED TO A BUILDING OR IS FREESTANDING.
Bar
An establishment possessing a series 6 or series 7 liquor license and primarily serving alcoholic
beverages to the public for consumption on the premises.
Barn
A building used for the storage of farm products, feed and farm equipment and the housing of
farm animals.
Base Zoning Dwelling Count
The maximum number of minimum lot size dwellings permitted on a parcel of land.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Basement
The portion of a building underground and having at least one-half (1/2) of its height measured
from its floor to its ceiling below grade. A basement shall be counted as a story if the vertical
distance from grade to its ceiling is more than two (2) feet.
Bicycle Parking Facility
A structure that provides temporary placement for bicycles.
Class 1:
A facility designed for temporary storage of an entire bicycle and its components and
accessories and to provide protection against inclement weather, the extreme heat of the
desert climate, and theft. The facility may include bicycle lockers, check-in facilities, monitored
parking, restricted access parking, or other means which provide the above level of security as
approved by the Planning and Zoning Administrator.
Class 2:
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
The facility provides a stationary object enabling the operator to lock the bicycle frame and
both wheels with a user-provided U-shaped lock or a cable and lock.
Bicycle Parking Space
An area designated within a facility for the use of an individual bicycle.
BILLBOARD
AN OFF-SITE SIGN THAT IS PASTED, PAINTED, OR FASTENED ON IN A MANNER TO ALLOW FOR
PERIODIC REPLACEMENT OF MESSAGES THAT IS NOT LOCATED ON THE PROPERTY WHERE THE
BILLBOARD IS LOCATED.
Block
A piece or parcel of land or group of lots entirely surrounded by public streets, streams,
railroads or parks or a combination thereof.
Boardinghouse or Lodging House
A structure(s) used for multiple human occupancy where individuals do not have common
access to all living, eating, kitchen, and storage areas within said structure(s).
Borrow
Earth material acquired from an off-site location for use in grading a site.
Brushing
The selective removal of vegetation.
Buffer Area
Open spaces, landscaped areas, fences, walls, beams or any combination thereof used to
physically separate or screen one (1) use or property from another.
Buffer Yard
A yard containing only native desert or landscaping, including organic and inorganic materials,
for the purpose of providing separation between adjacent land or along roadways.
Buildable Area
The area where a building can be placed after the designation of natural open space.
Building
A structure for the shelter, housing, or enclosure of persons, animals, chattels, or property of
any kind with the exception of doghouses, play houses and similar structures. Each portion of a
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
building separated by dividing wall or walls without openings may be deemed as a separate
building for the purpose of issuing building permits.
BUILDING FRONTAGE
THE MAXIMUM DIMENSION OF THE BUILDING FRONT PROJECT TO A STRAIGHT LINE PARALLEL
TO THE STREET.
BUILDING FRONTAGE
THE MEASUREMENT BETWEEN TWO (2) STRAIGHT LINES PROJECTING FROM THE OUTERMOST
EDGES OF A BUILDING OR TENANT SPACE WALL THAT ARE PERPENDICULAR TO A STRAIGHT
LINE RUNNING ALONG THE GROUND LEVEL OF THE FRONT OF THE MEASURED WALL.
Building Height
The vertical distance of a structure.
Slopes Less Than Six Percent
The vertical distance measured from the grade found along the outside walls of a building
to the highest point of the building, excluding any chimney.
Slopes Greater Than Six Percent
The maximum vertical distance measured from natural grade to the highest point of the
building directly above, excluding any chimney.
Building Height Contour Line
The area located at the building height permitted by Oro Valley zoning above the existing
pre-development grade and parallel to the contour of the existing pre-development grade.
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Building Line
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 11 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A line where no building or structure, or portion thereof, shall be erected, constructed, or
otherwise established any closer to the street right-of-way line.
Building-Mounted Antenna
An antenna that is attached to the walls of, or integrated into, buildings, religious institution
steeples, cooling towers, elevator bulkheads, parapets, penthouses, fire towers, tanks, and
water towers, or other structures.
((O)07-33, 09/19/07)
Building Segment
A portion of a building which has a single finish floor elevation.
Building Site
The area of a building together with associated parking areas and open space required by this
code. A building site may encompass more than one (1) lot.
Business Frontage
The lineal distance of the building space occupied by the particular business projected to a
straight line parallel to the face of the building in which the main entrance into that particular
business is located.
CABINET SIGN
A THREE (3) DIMENSIONAL STRUCTURE WHICH INCLUDES A FRAME, BORDERS AND SIGN PANEL
FACE AND MAY INCLUDE INTERNAL ILLUMINATION UPON WHICH THE SIGN LOGOS ARE
PLACED OR ETCHED, AND IS ARCHITECTURALLY INTEGRATED WITH THE BUILDING.
Car Wash
See “Vehicle Wash.”
Carport
An accessory building or portion of a main building with one (1) side totally open and one (1) or
more partially open sides designated or used for the parking of motor vehicles. Enclosed
storage facilities may be provided as part of a carport.
Cellar
The portion of a building between floor and ceiling which is seventy-five percent (75%) or more
below grade and is not habitable space.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Cemetery
A parcel of land or structure dedicated to, and at least a portion of which is being used for, the
interment of human or animal remains. A cemetery may include crematories, mausoleums, and
columbaria.
CHANGE OF COPY
A REPLACEMENT FACE(S) OR MATERIAL TO AN EXISTING SIGN WITHOUT CHANGING ANY
STRUCTURAL MEMBERS, SIZES, AND/OR HEIGHTS.
Character
A letter, number, logo (as defined in this Chapter) or symbol.
Clearing
The substantial removal of vegetation by manual or mechanical means.
Collocation
The use of a single mount and/or site by more than one (1) wireless communications service
provider.
COLOR TEMPERATURE
THE WARMTH OR COOLNESS OF WHITE LIGHT SOURCE ALONG THE BLACK BODY CURVE. THE
HIGHER THE COLOR TEMPERATURE (KELVIN (K)) THE COOLER APPEARING (BRIGHTER) THE
WHITE LIGHT APPEARS.
Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission of the Town of Oro Valley unless the context indicates
otherwise.
Communication Studios
An establishment used for the creation, development and/or broadcast of radio or television
programs or products, not including towers or communication facilities.
Communications Nuisance
A use which creates interference with radio communications and electronic navigational aids or
devices, including instrument landing systems, for aircraft using the airport.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 13 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Conceptual Architectural Design Plan
The conceptual architectural elevations prepared in accordance with this Code and an element
of the conceptual design review process.
((O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Conceptual Design Review
The concurrent review and approval process for conceptual site plan, conceptual landscape
plan, conceptual public artwork plan and conceptual architectural plan by Town staff, the
Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Town Council.
((O)17-05, 06/07/17; (O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Conceptual Design Review Submittal
The conceptual design review submittal package consisting of the conceptual site plan,
conceptual landscape plan, conceptual architectural design plan and the conceptual public art
plan submittals.
((O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Conceptual Public Artwork Plan
The conceptual art plan prepared in accordance with Section 27.3.G and an element of the
conceptual design review process.
((O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Conceptual Site Plan
The conceptual plan for a residential or non-residential development, including the items
required in Section 22.9.D and as specified by current Town policy.
((O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Conditional Approval
An affirmative action by the Board of Adjustments, Planning and Zoning Commission or Town
Council indicating that approval will be forthcoming upon satisfaction of certain specified
stipulations.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 14 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
((O)17-05, 06/07/17; (O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Conditional Use Permit
See “Use Permit.”
Condominium
An estate in real property consisting of an undivided interest in common in a portion of said
real property together with the right of exclusive occupancy of a unit located thereon.
Conservation
The use and management of land to eliminate waste and maximize efficiency of use while
yielding the highest sustainable benefit to present generations and maintaining the natural
resources in such a state that they remain biologically viable and they can provide for the
benefit of future generations.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Conservation Easement
An easement delineating an area that will be kept in its natural state.
Construction Drawings
All documents required for construction that depict all elements of the final layout and design
at construction-level detail. The construction drawings include the final site plan based on the
approved conceptual site plan, as well as the native plant preservation, salvage and mitigation
plan and landscape, irrigation, and buffer yard plans, final public art plans, final architecture
plans, building plans and improvement plans.
((O)11-15, 05/18/11)
CONSTRUCTION SIGN
A CONSTRUCTION SIGN MAY ONLY CONTAIN THE NAMES OF THE ARCHITECTS, ENGINEERS, CONTRACTORS, OR
SIMILAR ARTISANS, AS WELL AS THE OWNERS, FINANCIAL SUPPORTERS AND SIMILAR INDIVIDUALS OR FIRMS
ASSOCIATED WITH THE PROJECT.
Convenience Markets
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 15 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A convenience use store less than seven thousand five hundred (7,500) square feet where food
and drink, which may include packaged alcoholic beverages, are sold primarily for consumption
off premises.
Convenience Use
A use by which the method of operation produces a moderate or high level of traffic and
impacts on surrounding uses. The following are considered convenience uses:
1. Gas stations
2. Drive-thru uses, not including banks
3. Convenience markets
4. Vehicle (car) washes
Oro Valley Town Center PAD Convenience Use requirements
Corral Fence
A fence-type structure consisting of vertical posts and horizontal members and so constructed
that seventy-five percent (75%) or more of the vertical surface is open. Chain link or other
similar types of wire fences are not intended to be included in this definition and shall be
classified as a fence or wall.
Council
The common Town Council of the Town of Oro Valley.
Covered Porch
An exterior covered structure attached to a building, including associated roof eaves or
overhangs, that is supported by posts or columns and is open on three (3) sides.
((O)18-15, 10/03/18)
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
A multidisciplinary approach to deterring criminal behavior through environmental design. The
environ- mental design should encourage desirable behavior and functionality. CPTED
emphasizes surveillance, access control, and definition of ownership.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 16 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
((O)11-05, 04/20/11)
Cul-de-Sac
A street with no outlet which terminates in a circular right-of-way. Cul-de-sacs shall be
developed in accordance with the Oro Valley’s Subdivision Street Standards.
Cultural Resource
A prehistoric or historic site or object having historical, architectural, archaeological, or
community importance, including artifacts, records, and material remains related to such
property or resource.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Cultural Resource Professional
An archaeologist, architect, architectural historian or historian who meets the minimum
professional qualifications established by the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional
Qualification Standards.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Cultural Resources Survey
An activity with the purpose of locating and identifying cultural resources without causing any
disturbance of the ground.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Custom Home Subdivision
A subdivision in which all homes are designed individually and no model homes are
constructed.
Cut
Vertical removal of earthen material.
Dangerous Activity, Hazard or Obstruction
An activity, structure, vegetation or other use which is dangerous to persons or aircraft using
the airport or which is an obstruction or hazard to air navigation.
Day Care
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 17 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A public or private establishment providing care and supervision for five (5) or more children
not related to the proprietor.
Decibel (dB)
A unit of level which denotes the ratio of two (2) quantities that are proportional to power as
defined in the noise abatement technical bulletin.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Dedication
Is a conveyance of fee simple or property rights to Oro Valley or another public agency.
Density
A ratio of the number of dwelling units to the gross land area unless otherwise stated.
Density-Based Land Uses
Those land uses of a residential nature.
Desert Varnish
A black or brown shiny crust on rocks, which consists mainly of iron and manganese oxides.
Design Review
The complete two (2) stage process of development review, including all elements,
requirements, reviews, approvals and processes related to conceptual design review and final
design review by the Planning and Zoning Commission, staff and Town Council.
((O)17-05, 06/07/17; (O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Developer
An individual, firm, corporation, partnership, association, syndication, trust or other legal entity,
or representative thereof, that files the application and initiates proceedings for the
development of land in accordance with the provisions of Sections 22.5 and 22.9 and the
developer need not be the owner of the property.
Development Committee
The personnel designated to meet with a developer during the development plan, subdivision,
and platting process.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 18 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
DEVELOPMENT COMPLEX
A SITE HAVING COMMON VEHICULAR ACCESS POINTS, WHICH IS SUBJECT TO A DEVELOPMENT
PLAN.
DIRECT LIGHTING
A SOURCE OF EXTERNAL ILLUMINATION LOCATED A DISTANCE AWAY FROM THE SIGN WHICH
LIGHTS THE SIGN, BUT WHICH ITSELF IS NOT VISIBLE FROM ANY NORMAL POSITION OR VIEW.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
A PERMANENT ON-SITE SIGN THAT IS PLACED SOLELY TO DEFINE LOCATION AND STREAMLINE
THE FLOW OF VEHICULAR AND/OR PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC SO AS TO MINIMIZE CONGESTION
AND PROMOTE SAFETY. A DIRECTIONAL SIGN MAY ONLY DISPLAY WRITTEN OR GRAPHIC
DIRECTIONS FOR TRAFFIC, NAME OF THE BUSINESS AND/OR LOGO, AND ADDRESS AND/OR
SUITE NUMBER.
DIRECTORY SIGN
AN ON-SITE SIGN INTERIOR TO A DEVELOPMENT THAT LISTS ONLY NAMES AND LOCATIONS OF
THE BUSINESSES OR ACTIVITIES WITHIN A BUILDING OR MULTI-TENANT COMPLEX. A
DIRECTORY SIGN SHALL HELP TO DIRECT VEHICULAR AND/OR PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC.
Disability
A physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one (1) or more of a person’s major
life activities, impairs their ability to live independently or a record of having such an
impairment, or being regarded as having such an impairment, but such term does not include
current use of, nor addiction to, a controlled substance.
DISPLAY AREA
AN AREA FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISPLAYING MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS SUCH AS POSTERS, MENUS,
PROMOTIONAL ITEMS OR THE LIKE WHICH PERTAIN TO THE BUSINESS ITSELF, IN A DEFINED LOCATION
AND MAY INCLUDE ILLUMINATION. WINDOW DISPLAYS SUCH AS MANNEQUINS, THREE (3)
DIMENSIONAL FIGURES, CLOTHING AND THE LIKE, WHICH DO NOT CONTAIN ADVERTISEMENT, SHALL
NOT BE CONSIDERED A WINDOW TYPE SIGN AS DESCRIBED ABOVE.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 19 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Distillery
A building or use that has a Series 18 liquor license and produces no more than twenty
thousand (20,000) gallons of distilled spirits annually.
((O)20-06, 07/15/20)
District
A zone as shown on the Zoning Map of the Town of Oro Valley for which there are uniform
regulations governing the use of buildings and premises or the height and area of buildings.
District Map
The official zoning map of the Town of Oro Valley, which is a part of the zoning ordinance of the
Town of Oro Valley.
DOUBLE-FACED SIGN
A SIGN HAVING TWO (2) DISPLAY SURFACES, ONE (1) (OR MORE) SUPPORT(S) OF WHICH IS (ARE)
SHARED BY BOTH SURFACES. HENCE, DOUBLE-FACE SIGNS INCLUDE BACK-TO-BACK SIGNS AS WELL AS
V-SHAPED SIGNS.
Drainage Swale
A designed invert that collects site drainage and directs it to a point of discharge.
Drive-Thru Use
A use which has a drive-thru lane as a functional component of the business.
Driveway
The principal access route from a roadway to the lot’s primary off-street parking area.
Grading requirements for driveway improvements
Dwelling
A building, or portion thereof, designed exclusively for residential purposes.
Multiple
A building, or portion thereof, designed for occupancy by three (3) or more families.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 20 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Single-Family
A building designed for occupancy by one (1) family.
Two-Family (Duplex)
A building designed for occupancy by two (2) families.
Dwelling Unit
A building, or portion of a building, arranged, designed or used as living quarters, including
bathroom and kitchen facilities, sleeping and living areas, for a family.
Easement
A grant by the owner of the use of a strip of land by the public, a corporation, or persons for
specific uses and purposes and is so designated.
Front Lot Line for Lindbergh Drive Property
Electronic Message Board
A sign that permits the changing of messages by means of electronically controlled sign copy.
Emergency
An unforeseen event requiring prompt action.
Encroachment
To go into or over a specified line such as a setback.
((O)18-15, 10/03/18)
Engineering Plan
Plans, profiles, cross sections, and other required details for the construction of public
improvements prepared by a registered engineer in accordance with the approved preliminary
plat and in compliance with standards of design and construction approved by the Town
Council.
Entertainment at Bars, Restaurants or Private Clubs
An activity intended for entertainment, including live musicians, disc jockeys, musical or artistic
performances, etc.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 21 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
ENTRYWAY SIGN
A PERMANENT SIGN IDENTIFYING THE ENTRANCE TO A SUBDIVISION, COMPLEX, FACILITY, OR
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT.
Envelope, Development
The sum of the areas of the permit holder’s land to be graded, including the building envelope,
accessory buildings, and areas of related parking, driveways, swimming pools, walls and other
accessory structures, but excluding individual sewage disposal systems.
Commercial Building
The main building and all attached roofed structures.
Residential Building
A dwelling unit and all attached roofed structures, including carports or patio ramadas.
Environmentally Sensitive Lands
Lands that contribute to the aesthetic character of the immediate area, such as unique or heavy
plant, tree or cacti growth or species, including, but not limited to, those lands restricted by
additional overlay districts.
Environmentally Sensitive Open Space (ESOS)
Lands designated as permanent, natural open space in accordance with the requirements of
Section 27.10.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Equipment Building or Structure
An accessory building or structure used to house necessary equipment used by communication
providers at a facility.
Erosion
The wearing away of the ground surface as a result of the movement of wind, water or ice.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 22 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Exaction
A condition placed on land development requiring dedication of infrastructure and/or real
property that is necessary to serve a proposed development and is imposed on a parcel of land
for the purpose of mitigating the anticipated negative impacts and infrastructure needs created
by the development.
Excavation
The mechanical, manual, blasting, or other such means for removal of earth material.
Exception
A parcel of land that is within the boundaries of the subdivision but is not owned by the
subdivider.
Exposed
The result of causing something to be open to view.
Extension
A portion of a building that may or may not have a location on the ground that projects out
from a building.
((O)18-15, 10/03/18)
Family
A person living alone, up to but no more than ten (10) persons unrelated to each other by
blood, marriage or legal adoption, living together in a dwelling unit existing solely as a single
housekeeping unit, with common access to all living, eating, kitchen and storage areas within
the dwelling unit.
Farm
An area used for the production of farm products.
Fascia
A parapet-type wall used as part of the facade of a flat-roofed building and projecting from the
building face immediately adjacent thereto.
Fill
The vertical addition of earthen material.
Filter Fabric
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 23 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A woven or non-woven water-permeable material generally made of synthetic products, such
as polypropylene, used in stormwater management and erosion and sediment control
applications to trap sediment or prevent the clogging of aggregates by fine soil particles.
Final Design Review
The review and approval process for construction drawings, including final site plan and/or final
plat, and subject to approval by Town staff and Town Council for final plats.
((O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Final Inspection
Field inspection conducted by the Town prior to project acceptance of release of assurances.
Final Plat Approval
An unconditional approval of the final plat by the Town Council, as evidenced by certification on
the plat by the Mayor and constitutes authorization to record a plat.
Financial Services
An establishment providing management or exchange of money, assets or other fiduciary
services, including banks, credit unions, savings and loans, mortgage and/or title companies.
Oro Valley Town Center PAD Convenience Use requirements
Fitness Center
A place or building where exercises and related activities are performed for the purpose of
weight control and/or physical fitness.
Flag
A fabric, banner, or bunting containing distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols, used as a
symbol of a government, political subdivision, or other entity.
Floodplain
The relatively flat areas or low lands adjoining the channel of a watercourse, or areas where
drainage is or may be restricted by manmade structures which have been or may be covered
partially or wholly by floodwater.
Floor Area Ratio
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 24 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
The ratio of gross building floor area to the net lot area of the building site.
Food Processing
A use engaged in the production of food products.
Artisanal
A use engaged in the production of food products intended for consumption off premises
for sale directly to individual consumers.
Large Scale
A use engaged in the production of food products intended for wholesale distribution to
licensed retailers.
Food Truck
See “Mobile Food Unit.”
((O)18-14, 10/03/18)
Freestanding
A structure which is not attached to any other structure or portion of a structure. Structures,
which are linked by pedestrian walkways, are deemed to be freestanding. Freestanding shall
also apply to sole uses on an individual parcel.
Frontage
All property on one (1) side of a street between two (2) intersecting streets (crossing or
terminating) measured along the line of the street, or, if the street is a dead end, then all of the
property abutting on one (1) side between an intersecting street and the dead end of the street,
including property fronting on a cul-de-sac.
Full Cutoff (FCO) Light Fixture
A light fixture which is installed or designed to emit no direct uplight above the horizontal.
Funeral Services
An establishment engaged in the preparation and/or burial of the dead, including funeral
chapels, crematoriums, and mortuaries.
Garage, Parking
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 25 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
See “Vehicle Storage Facility.”
GARAGE/YARD/ESTATE SALE SIGN
AN ON-SITE OR OFF-SITE, TEMPORARY SIGN MADE FROM PAPER, POSTER BOARD, CARDBOARD, OR
LIKE MATERIAL.
Gas Station
A convenience use engaged in the sale and distribution of fuel for motor vehicles.
General Aviation
The operation of non-commercial aircraft, including storage (hangars), maintenance and
airstrips.
General Plan
The General Plan of the Town of Oro Valley, or any part thereof, as adopted by the Town
Council and as hereinafter amended.
Golf Course
A facility other than a miniature golf course for the playing of golf at which there may be a
clubhouse including restrooms and locker rooms. A golf course may provide additional services
customarily furnished, such as swimming, outdoor recreation and related retail sales that may
include a restaurant and cocktail lounge if approved as a part of the required use permit.
Golf Safety Net
A structure made of netting material supported by vertical poles, which is erected for the
purposes of protecting life and property from errant golf balls.
Government Services
A use engaged in providing services to the general public and recognized as a political
subdivision of the State, including City or Town agencies, emergency services, fire services,
school districts, etc.
GOVERNMENT SIGN
A SIGN INSTALLED OR REQUIRED BY A PUBLIC AGENCY SUCH AS TRAFFIC, PUBLIC TRANSIT, PUBLIC
INFORMATION, OR SIMILAR GOVERNMENT ENTITY.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 26 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Grade
The elevation of the ground surface, paving, or sidewalk.
Existing
The actual, current ground surface before the issuance of a grading permit.
Finished
The final grade conforming to the approved plan.
Natural
The topographic configuration of land, prior to any grading or disturbance of the site.
Rough
The stage at which grading substantially conforms to the approved grading plan.
Grading
The initial clearing, brushing or grubbing, and subsequent excavating or filling of a site.
Grading Permit
An official document issued by the Town authorizing the grading activity specified by the
grading permit conditions.
Grading Permit Conditions
The specifications and requirements of the approved grading plan, soils report, or other
documents necessary for grading permit approval.
Grand Opening
The introduction, promotion or announcement of a new business, store, shopping center, or
office, or the announcement, introduction or promotion of an established business changing
ownership.
GRAND OPENING SIGN
AN ON-SITE SIGN ADVERTISING THE OPENING OF AN ESTABLISHMENT, EXPANSION, OR CHANGE OF
OWNERSHIP OF A COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISE, NEW BUSINESS, STORE, OR OFFICE.
Grocery Store
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 27 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
An establishment primarily engaged in the sale of food products including packaged goods,
produce and meat products, which may include on-site food preparation such as bakeries, delis
and other related services.
Gross Floor Area
Is the sum of the gross areas of the several floors of a building or buildings, measured from the
exterior faces of exterior walls or from the centerlines of walls separating two (2) buildings.
Gross floor area shall not include:
a. Underground parking space
b. Uncovered steps
c. Exterior balconies
Gross Land Area
The area of a parcel of land excluding all streets and alleyways in existence at the time the
development plan is submitted. Those portions of such parcels which subsequently may be
designated as streets or alleyways, whether dedicated or not, shall be included in the
determination of gross land area.
Grubbing
The removal of trees and other large plants including their roots.
Guest House
An attached or detached accessory building used to house guests of the occupants of the
principal building. A guest house providing kitchen facilities shall be considered a dwelling unit.
Guest Ranch
A ranch that provides lodging and activities to guests.
Habitat
The place or type of site where a plant or animal naturally or normally grows and lives.
Halo Illumination
Illumination produced by recessing a light source inside a hollow SIGN character with an open
back or within the mounting surface. An outline glow around the characters is created by this
light reflecting off the background to which the characters are attached.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 28 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Health Studio or Health Spa
See “Personal Services.”
((O)06-06, 04/19/06)
Heliport
An area that is used or intended to be used for the landing and takeoff of helicopters and may
include any or all of the areas of buildings which are appropriate to accomplish these functions.
High-Rise Building
A building that exceeds thirty (30) feet in height as defined herein.
Hillside Conservation Area
Land area designated for conservation of natural slopes greater than fifteen percent (15%).
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Hillside Development Zone
An area providing additional regulations for hillside development.
Hillside Development Zone Subdivision
A subdivision or that portion of a subdivision located within the Town’s Hillside development
zone.
Hillside View Conservation Area
The visually significant slopes and ridges of the site designated as environmentally sensitive
open space. Visually significant slopes and ridges are identified by the Scenic Resources
category of the ESL regulations.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
HISTORICAL MARKER
A SIGN MARKER LOCATING AND IDENTIFYING A HISTORICAL INTEREST OR SITE.
Home Occupation
Business or commercial activity that is conducted from property zoned for residential use.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 29 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
((O)16-11, 09/07/16)
HOME OCCUPATION SIGN
A SIGN THAT IDENTIFIES A BUSINESS OR COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY THAT IS CONDUCTED FROM THE
PROPERTY ZONED FOR RESIDENTIAL USE.
Hospital
A facility for the general and emergency treatment of human ailments with bed care including a
sanitarium or clinic.
((O)15-16, 11/08/15)
Hotel
An establishment that offers temporary lodging in rooms, for less than one (1) month (30 days),
that has interior common corridor access to rooms, may include a restaurant and accessory
uses and services, including, without limitation, newsstands, gift shops, and similar incidental
uses conducted entirely within the principal building.
Household Services
An establishment providing repair or maintenance of residential goods or properties including
appliance repair shop, pest prevention services, etc.
Human Burials
Human remains, including human skeletal remains, cremations, and/or ceremonial objects and
funerary objects.
HUMAN SIGNS
ANY PORTABLE COMMERCIAL ADVERTISEMENT THAT IS HELD OR WORN BY A PERSON OR PERSONS TO
DRAW ATTENTION TO OR DIRECT THE PUBLIC TO A BUSINESS OR EVENT.
Hydrological Study
A report designed to show the effects of surface water on a specific area.
IDENTIFICATION SIGN
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 30 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
AN ON-SITE, PERMANENT SIGN WHICH IDENTIFIES THE PREMISES WHERE THE SIGN IS LOCATED.
Illumination Nuisance
A use which creates difficulty for pilots to distinguish between navigational lights or markers
and other lights.
ILLUMINATED SIGN
A SIGN WHOSE SURFACE IS LIT INTERNALLY OR EXTERNALLY OR HAS THE POTENTIAL OR ABILITY TO BE
ILLUMINATED EITHER BY BATTERY OR ELECTRICITY SHALL BE CONSIDERED AN ILLUMINATED SIGN
WHETHER THE SIGN IS LIT OR UNLIT.
Improvements
A street, sewer, electric, gas and water utilities, drainage and flood control facilities or any other
improvement or structure including all necessary engineering, construction, and inspection
costs for the same for which the Town of Oro Valley may ultimately assume responsibility for
maintenance and operation.
Impulsive Sound
Sound that is characterized by brief disturbances of sound pressure, typically less than one (1)
second, when peak sound pressure exceeds the background sound pressure.
Highly
Impulsive sound having very rapid onset rate (greater than one hundred fifty (150) dB per
second) typically resulting from impact processes including, but not limited to: metal
hammering, wood hammering, drop hammering, pile driving, drop forging, pneumatic
hammering, pickleball paddle and ball impacts, pavement breaking, metal impacts and
riveting.
Regular
Impulsive sound that is not highly impulsive sound. This includes speech and music.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 31 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Incidental Retail Item
An item customarily subordinate or directly related to the operation of a mobile food unit.
((O)18-14, 10/03/18)
INDIRECT LIGHTING
A SOURCE OF EXTERNAL ILLUMINATION LOCATED A DISTANCE AWAY FROM THE SIGN, BUT WHICH IS
ITSELF NOT VISIBLE FROM ANY NORMAL POSITION.
INFLATABLE SIGN
AN OBJECT, DEVICE OR STRUCTURE CAPABLE OF OR DESIGNED TO BE INFLATED WITH AIR OR
LIGHTER-THAN-AIR GAS THAT IS USED FOR THE PURPOSE OF ATTRACTING ATTENTION OR TO MAKE
SOMETHING KNOWN TO THE PUBLIC.
Inspector
A person authorized by the Town to perform inspection on grading work.
Institution
A building or buildings occupied by a nonprofit corporation or a nonprofit establishment for
public use.
Institutional
An organizational facility used for social, educational, or religious purposes such as a school,
religious institution, hospital, or reformatory.
((O)07-33, 09/19/07)
Integrated
An element of a project that is an aesthetic or functional part of a structure or design. The
integrated element is not intended to appear as an added or attached feature of the overall
project.
((O)18-08, 05/16/18)
Internal Illumination
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 32 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A source of illumination entirely within the sign wherein the source of the illumination is not visible.
Irrigation Facility
Canals, laterals, ditches, conduits, gates, pumps, and allied equipment necessary for the supply,
delivery, and drainage of irrigation water and the construction, operation and maintenance
thereof.
Irrigation System
An underground watering system, which consists of heads, valves, pipes, etc., used for the sole
purpose of sustaining and promoting plant life.
Kennel
A use where six (6) or more dogs or cats are bred, boarded, and/or trained, not including
ancillary pet boarding.
KIOSK SIGN
A FREESTANDING SIGN THAT CONTAINS DIRECTIONAL PLACARDS. THE KIOSK IS INSTALLED PER A
CONTRACT WITH AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MANUFACTURE AND
MAINTENANCE OF THE SIGNS.
Land Division, Minor
A division of improved or unimproved land for the purpose of financing sale or lease, whether
immediate or future, into one (1) or more lots, not including any division of land defined as
“subdivision.”
Landscape
A combination of trees, shrubs, flowers, or other horticultural elements, decorative stonework,
paving, screening or other architectural elements designed to enhance the visual amenity of a
property and/or to provide a screen to mitigate any objectionable aspects that may
detrimentally affect adjacent land.
Landscape Island
A landscaped area defined by a header and/or curb commonly found in a parking lot or
cul-de-sac.
Landscape Screen
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 33 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
An area of landscaping intended to provide a visual screen between adjacent areas.
Light Trespass
The portion of the measurable light distribution that extends beyond the property line.
Linear Park
See “Park, Linear.”
((O)11-05, 04/20/11)
Loading Space
A permanently maintained space on the same lot as the main building accessible to a street or
alley, which provides an area for delivery trucks and other similar activities to serve the
building.
LOGO
A GRAPHIC SYMBOL REPRESENTING A BUSINESS. LOGOS SHALL BE STATE OR FEDERALLY REGISTERED
TRADEMARKS.
Long Term
A period of time exceeding seven (7) days.
Lot
A parcel of land created by a legal subdivision bounded on all sides by property lines of
sufficient size to meet minimum zoning requirements for use, coverage, area, setbacks, and
other areas as required by this code, with legal access to a public street.
Corner
A lot adjoining two (2) or more streets at their intersection.
Interior
A lot other than a corner lot or key lot.
Key
A lot adjacent to a corner lot that shares its side lot line with the rear lot line of the corner
lot and fronts on the street which forms the side boundary of the corner lot.
Reverse Frontage
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 34 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A lot having frontage on two (2) non-intersecting streets. The front of the lot shall be
considered facing the interior street.
Lot Area
See “Net Lot Area.”
Lot Coverage
The area of land that is covered by a building on a particular site.
Lot, Depth of
The horizontal distance between the front and rear lot lines.
Lot Lines
The lines which form the boundary of a lot.
Front
The line along the street on which the lot is addressed for residential lots, or the major
street as determined by the Town Engineer for commercial lots.
Rear
The line that is opposite and most distant from the front lot line.
Side
All lot lines not front or rear are side lot lines.
Front Lot Line for Lindbergh Drive Property
Lot of Record
A lot that is a part of a subdivision, the plat of which has been recorded in the office of the Pima
County Recorder; or parcel of land, the deed of which is recorded in the office of the County
Recorder.
Lot Width
The width of the lot determined as follows:
a. If the side property lines are parallel, the shortest distance between these side lines;
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
b. If the side property lines are not parallel, the width of the lot shall be the length of a
line at right angles to the axis of the lot at a distance equal to the required front or rear
building setback line, whichever is the lesser. The axis of a lot shall be a line generally
perpendicular to the fronting street, which divides the lot into two (2) equal parts.
Lumen
A unit of light output from a source; used to measure the amount of light emitted by lamps.
Luminaire
The complete lighting assembly, not including the support assembly.
Maintenance
The replacing or repairing of a part of a sign made unusable, unsafe or unattractive by ordinary
wear, tear or damage beyond the control of the owner or the repainting of an existing sign
without changing the wording, location, composition or color of said sign.
Manufactured Home
A structure, transportable in one (1) or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight (8)
feet or more wide or forty (40) feet or more in length, or when erected on site, is three hundred
twenty (320) or more square feet, and which is built on a permanent foundation and contains
plumbing, heating, air cooling, and electrical systems.
Manufacturing Services
An establishment whose primary business is the compounding, processing, fabricating or
assembling, packaging or testing of goods or equipment.
Heavy
A manufacturing service which may have a negative impact on adjacent properties and that
does not comply with Section 25.1.B.17.
Light
A manufacturing service which does not have a negative impact on adjacent properties in
accordance with Section 25.1.B.17.
((O)20-06, 07/15/20)
Marijuana Establishment
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 36 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
An entity licensed by the State of Arizona Department of Health Services or its successor agency
to acquire, possess, cultivate, manufacture, supply, sell or dispense marijuana and marijuana
products.
Types of establishments include:
Designated Caregiver Cultivation Location
An enclosed facility, that does not exceed two hundred fifty (250) square feet of cultivation
space, where a designated caregiver, as defined by A.R.S. Section 36-2801(5), cultivates
marijuana if the designated caregiver’s registry identification card provides that the
designated caregiver is authorized to cultivate marijuana.
Nonprofit Medical Marijuana Dispensary
A nonprofit entity that acquires, possesses, cultivates, manufactures, supplies, sells or
dispenses marijuana or related supplies and educational materials to cardholders.
Recreational Marijuana Dispensary
A single retail location, in cooperation with a medical marijuana dispensary, that acquires,
possesses, cultivates, manufactures and sells marijuana and marijuana products to
consumers.
Dispensary Off-Site Cultivation Location
A single off-site location where marijuana or marijuana products are cultivated, processed,
packaged, stored or manufactured by a marijuana dispensary, but from which marijuana
and marijuana products may not be transferred or sold to consumers.
Qualifying Patient Cultivation Location
An enclosed facility that does not exceed fifty (50) square feet of cultivation space for each
location, where a qualifying patient, as defined by A.R.S. Section 36-2801(13), cultivates
marijuana if the qualifying patient’s registry identification card states that the qualifying
patient is authorized to cultivate marijuana.
((O)20-10, 11/04/20; (O)10-13, 10/27/10)
Marijuana Use
Marijuana is all parts of the plant of the genus Cannabis, as defined in A.R.S. Section 13-3401,
whether growing or not, as well as the seeds from the plant, the resin extracted from any part
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
of the plant, and every compound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture or preparation of the
plant or its seeds or resin.
Marijuana does not include industrial hemp, the fiber produced from the stalks of the plant of
the genus Cannabis, oil or cake made from the seeds of the plant, sterilized seeds of the plant
that are incapable of germination, or the weight of any other ingredient combined with
marijuana to prepare topical or oral administrations, food, drink or other products.
Types of marijuana uses include:
Medical Marijuana
Marijuana used for a medical use as those terms are defined in A.R.S. Section 36-2081(11).
Recreational Marijuana
Marijuana used for enjoyment rather than as a medical treatment.
((O)20-10, 11/04/20; (O)10-13, 10/27/10)
MARQUEE SIGN
ANY SIGN AFFIXED TO OR CONSTRUCTED IN A ROOF LIKE STRUCTURE OR AWNING PROJECTING OVER
AN ENTRANCE TO A BUILDING, SUCH AS A THEATER.
Mass Grading
Grading of the subdivision building site, in its entirety, during the initial development process,
as authorized by the approved plans. Mass grading shall only be permitted for new residential
subdivisions, with an average lot size of fifteen thousand (15,000) square feet or less.
((O)20-05, 09/16/20)
Master Planned Development
A large, multi-use development planned and developed in a comprehensive manner.
((O)20-06, 07/15/20)
Mature Trees
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 38 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Healthy, full-bodied trees with a shape characteristic of the species and of the following
minimum sizes:
Ten (10) to twelve (12) foot height by six (6) to eight (8) inch wide; or two (2) inch single
trunk caliper; or one (1) inch average trunk caliper for multiple trunk trees; or eight (8) foot
trunk height for palms.
Mechanical Equipment
All devices, appliances, and apparatus involved in the maintenance of environmental conditions
within a building or recreational structure, such as a swimming pool or spa. Mechanical
equipment shall include HVAC units, air conditioners, pool heaters, pool filters, and pool
circulation pumps, amongst others.
Medical Services
An establishment providing inpatient or outpatient medical care and/or treatment to patients,
including hospitals, surgery centers or urgent care facilities.
((O)20-06, 07/15/20)
MEMORIAL SIGN
A PERMANENT SIGN, TABLE, OR PLAQUE MEMORIALIZING A PERSON, EVENT, STRUCTURE, OR SITE.
Mezzanine or Mezzanine Floor
An intermediate floor placed in any room.
MENU BOARD
A MONUMENT STYLE OR WALL-MOUNTED SIGN PROVIDING A BILL OF FARE FOR THE PURPOSE OF
PLACING ORDERS AT A DRIVE-THROUGH, DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT, OR WALK UP WINDOW.
MODEL HOME FLAGS
INDIVIDUAL FLAGS, ATTACHED TO FREESTANDING POLES THAT MAY BE MULTI-COLORED AND/OR
CONTAIN THE CORPORATE LOGO FOR A MODEL HOME COMPLEX SALES OFFICE.
MODEL HOME OFF SITE SIGNS
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
DEFINITION: SIGNS WITHIN A SUBDIVISION WHICH DIRECT TRAFFIC TO THE MODEL HOME COMPLEX
OR CUSTOM HOME LOT SALES OFFICE.
Microbrewery
A building or use that has a series 3 liquor license and which produces beer in the amount
between ten thousand (10,000) and three hundred thousand (300,000) gallons annually.
Minor Land Division
A division of improved or unimproved land for the purpose of financing sale or lease, whether
immediate or future, into one (1) or more lots. A minor land division shall not include any
division of land defined as a “subdivision.”
Mobile Food Unit
A food establishment that is licensed by this State, that is readily movable and that dispenses
food or beverages for immediate service and consumption and other incidental retail items as
defined in this section.
((O)18-14, 10/03/18)
Mobile Home
A structure, transportable in one (1) or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight (8)
feet or more in width or forty (40) feet or more in length, or when erected on site is three
hundred twenty (320) or more square feet and which is built on a permanent chassis and
designed to be used as a dwelling.
Mobile Home Park
A lot, tract, or parcel of land used or offered for use, in whole or in part, with or without charge,
for parking of mobile homes or trailer coaches used for sleeping or household purposes.
Mobile Home Space
A plot of ground within a mobile home park designed for the accommodation of one (1) mobile
home or trailer coach.
Model Home
An unoccupied home intended for use as a representation for homebuyers of a particular
home product.
MODEL HOME BANNERS
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
DEFINITION: BANNERS FOR A MODEL HOME MAY BE UTILIZED FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF A SALES
EVENT OR TO IDENTIFY A NEW MODEL HOME.
Modifier
A word describing uses and activities other than the business name.
Monitoring, Archaeological
The observation after commencement of a disturbance to determine if archaeological
resources exist in an area or, when such resources are known to exist, the observation,
recording, and incidental recovery of site features and materials to preserve a record of the
affected portion of the site. Monitoring is applicable in locations where sites or features may
occur but are generally not expected to be of such importance, size or complexity as to require
lengthy work or project delays for archaeological investigations.
Monopole
A facility used exclusively for wireless communication facility mounts and is self-supporting with
a single shaft of steel, concrete or wood. This does not include flagpoles.
MONUMENT SIGN
A PERMANENT SIGN SUPPORTED BY STRUCTURES, COLUMNS, UPRIGHTS, AND/OR BRACES THAT ARE
PLACED ON, OR ANCHORED IN, THE GROUND INDEPENDENT OF THE BUILDING OR BUSINESS
STRUCTURE.
Motel
A building or group of buildings containing guest rooms or dwelling units, some or all of which
have a separate entrance leading directly from the outside of the building, with the garage or
parking space located on the lot and designed, used or intended wholly, or in part, for the
accommodation of automobile transients. Motel includes motor court, motor lodge and tourist
court, but not a mobile home park.
Moving Services
A use where trucks, trailers or other similar equipment intended for use in moving households
or businesses is available for hire, purchase or rent.
MOVING OR ANIMATED SIGNS
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
ANY SIGN OR PART OF A SIGN WHICH CHANGES PHYSICAL POSITION, FLASHES, BLINKS LIGHTS,
ROTATES OR CONVEYS THE ILLUSION OF MOVEMENT BY MECHANICAL MEANS, ILLUMINATION,
AND/OR AIR MOVEMENT.
Multiple Tenant Commercial Building
A structure that houses or is intended to house a variety of separate commercial activities.
Native Vegetation
Vegetation which is indigenous to the specific site or to areas contiguous to a parcel being
developed.
Natural Cross-Slope
The slope of the topographic configuration of land, graphically represented by contour lines,
prior to any grading or other disturbance of the site.
Natural Grade
The topographic configuration of land prior to any grading or other human disturbance of the
site.
NEON SIGN
AN ILLUMINATED, COMMERCIAL DISPLAY MADE UP OF GLASS TUBES, SHAPED TO FORM LETTERS AND
DESIGNS.
Net Floor Area
The total floor area of a building measured from the interior faces of load-bearing walls
excluding air shafts, stairwells, elevator shafts, restrooms, and mechanical equipment rooms.
Net Lighting Acre
An acre of the remaining ground area after deleting all portions for proposed and existing
public and private street rights-of-way within a development, parcel, or subdivision. If there are
any E1 lighting zones on the property, then they shall also be excluded from the calculations of
net lighting acre.
Net Lot Area
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
The area included within lot lines after all right-of-way dedications have been made as required
by the Town of Oro Valley.
NEW BUSINESS BANNER
A BANNER MAY BE UTILIZED FOR THE PURPOSE OF A NEW BUSINESS OPENING OR CHANGE OF
OWNERSHIP TO PROMOTE A NEW BUSINESS.
NIT
A UNIT OF VISIBLE-LIGHT INTENSITY, COMMONLY USED TO SPECIFY THE BRIGHTNESS OF AN LED,
CATHODE RAY TUBE OR LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY COMPUTER DISPLAY. ONE (1) NIT IS EQUIVALENT TO
ONE (1) CANDELA PER SQUARE METER.
Noise
Any sound which annoys or disturbs humans or which causes or tends to cause an adverse
effect on humans, domesticated animals or livestock.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Noise Abatement Plan
A detailed plan demonstrating the mitigation measures to be taken in order to meet the noise
requirements of this code.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Noise Impact Study
An analysis performed by a qualified acoustical engineer which determines the potential noise
impacts of a proposed use.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Nonconforming Building
A building or portion of which was lawful when established but does not conform to a
subsequently established district or district regulations.
Nonconforming Lot
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A parcel of land having less area, frontage, or dimensions than required in the district in which
it is located.
NONCONFORMING SIGN
ANY SIGN WHICH DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE PROVISIONS OF THIS CODE BUT WHICH, WHEN FIRST
CONSTRUCTED, WAS LEGALLY ALLOWED BY THE TOWN OF ORO VALLEY OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISION
THEN HAVING CONTROL OVER SIGNS.
Nonconforming Use
A building or land, lawfully occupied by a use at the time of passage of this code or code
amendment, that does not conform after passage of this code or code amendment with the
use regulations of the district in which it is located.
Non-Density-Based Land Uses
Those land uses of a non-residential nature.
NON-ILLUMINATED SIGN
A SIGN THAT DOES NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO BE ELECTRIFIED OR POWERED IN ANY WAY. THE
COMPONENTS THAT ENABLE THE SIGN TO BE LIT MUST BE PERMANENTLY DISABLED IN ORDER TO BE
CONSIDERED A NONILLUMINATED SIGN.
Non-Ionizing Electromagnetic Radiation (NIER)
Is electromagnetic radiation primarily in the visible, infrared, and radio frequency portions of
the electromagnetic spectrum.
Occupancy
The purpose for which a building, or part thereof, is used or intended to be used.
OFF-SITE SIGN
ANY SIGN NOT LOCATED ON THE PREMISES OR SITE OF THE USE IDENTIFIED OR ADVERTISED BY THE
SIGN.
Office
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 44 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A building or part thereof, designed, intended or used for the practice of a profession, including
medical, the carrying on of a business, the conduct of public administration, or, where not
conducted on the site thereof, the administration of an industry, but shall not include a retail
commercial use, any industrial use, financial institution, place of amusement, or place of
assembly.
Office Park
A group of offices planned and designed for the site on which it is built, functioning as a unit,
with off-street parking and landscaping provided on the property as an integral part of the unit.
ON-SITE SIGN
ANY SIGN WHICH IS LOCATED ON THE PREMISES OR SITE OF THE USE IDENTIFIED OR ADVERTISED BY
THE SIGN.
ON-SITE SUBDIVISION SIGN
AN ON-SITE, TEMPORARY SIGN LOCATED AT THE ENTRANCE TO A SUBDIVISION.
Open House
A dwelling or office space that is for sale or for lease to which the public is invited for walk-in
inspection.
Open Space
An area meant to provide a natural or garden environment.
Common
A landscape or natural open space, other than frontage open space, intended for use by all
occupants of a development.
Frontage
The landscaped or natural open space between the right-of-way line of a dedicated street
and any perimeter structure(s) within the development except that this space may extend
between structures or between a structure and a side property line to a depth of not more
than one-half (1/2) the width of the opening.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Landscaped
An area improved through the harmonious combination of natural desert growth with the
introduction of trees, shrubs, and groundcover the purpose of which is to enhance the
visual and aesthetic quality of any structure or development.
Natural
A natural, completely undisturbed, desert area.
Outdoor Display
An arrangement of merchandise sold on the property in such a way to give special prominence
and designed to attract buyers.
((O)16-10, 09/07/16)
Outdoor Light Fixture
An outdoor illuminating device, outdoor lighting or reflective surface, lamp or similar device,
permanently installed or portable, used for illumination. Such devices include, but are not
limited to:
a. Parking lot lighting
b. On-site circulation lighting
c. Building and structural lighting
d. Landscape lighting
e. Recreational lighting
f. Product display area lighting
g. Building overhangs and open canopies
h. Security lighting
Outdoor Storage
The supply, stock of merchandise, materials or similar items accumulated in an area outside of
the business.
((O)16-10, 09/07/16)
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 46 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Outdoor Type Business
A business, all or most of whose activities are conducted, or items displayed, in an open area.
Overlay District
A zoning district that provides supplemental regulations to be applied in addition to those of
the original zone, or provides for density transfers, or for coordinated development of several
uses and shall include the Hillside Development Zone, Planned Residential Development
District, and Planned Area Development District. Any applicable regulations superimposed by
the Floodplain Management Code shall be in addition to the requirements of this zoning code.
Owner
The person or persons holding title by deed to land or holding title as vendees under land
contract or holding any other title of record.
PAN-CHANNEL LETTER
A DIMENSIONAL CHARACTER FABRICATED TO FORM A PAN (I.E., A BACK AND SIDES). THE PAN IS
FORMED IN THE SHAPE OF A CHARACTER. THE SIDES ARE STRIPS OF THE SAME MATERIAL FASTENED TO
THE BACK. THE OPEN END OF THE PAN IS USUALLY CAPPED BY A CHARACTER CUT FROM
TRANSLUCENT ACRYLIC, AND IS KNOWN AS THE FACE. LIGHTING MAY BE INSTALLED INSIDE THE PAN
TO ILLUMINATE THE FACE.
Parapet Wall
A wall extending above the plate line of a building.
Parcel
An area within legally described boundaries under common ownership and capable of being
separately conveyed. A lot within a subdivision is a parcel.
Park
An area of land designated and used for recreation purposes.
Linear
A park that has a much greater length than width.
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Private
An area of land designated and used for active and/or passive recreation intended for use
by residents of the subdivision or complex in which the park is located.
Public
An area of land designated and used by the public for active and/or passive recreation.
Parking Aisle
The aisle on which vehicles are allowed access to the individual parking stalls and are
characterized by slow speeds and high turning movements.
Parking Area
A public or private land area designed and used for off-street parking.
Private
A parking area for the private use of the owners or occupants of the lot on which the
parking area is located; this does not include parking on sidewalks or streets; this does
include “reserved” designations.
Public
A parking area available to the public, with or without compensation, used to
accommodate clients, customers, employees, guests, or visitors.
Parking Bay
A parking module consisting of one (1) or two (2) rows of parking spaces and the aisle from
which vehicles enter and leave the spaces.
Parking Lot
A parcel of land devoted to parking spaces as set forth by the parking standards of the Town of
Oro Valley.
Commercial
A lot available to the general public, who may be required to pay a charge or fee for said
usage to the owner of the lot or his agent.
Parking Space
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
The space for the parking of a vehicle within a public or private parking area.
Parking Structure
A building designed for temporary storage of motor vehicles.
Party Wall
A single common wall between two (2) adjacent units.
Patio Home
An attached or detached single-family dwelling constructed with no side yard on one (1) side of
the lot.
PEDESTRIAN TENANT DIRECTORY
AN EXTERIOR, WALL-MOUNTED, OR FREESTANDING SIGN THAT LISTS ONLY THE NAMES AND
LOCATIONS OF TENANTS OF A COMPLEX OR DEVELOPMENT FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF DIRECTING
PEDESTRIANS. THE SIGN SHALL HAVE A UNIFORM BACKGROUND COLOR AND LETTER STYLE.
Pedestrian Way
A public walk dedicated entirely through a block, from street to street, or providing access to a
school, park, recreation area, or shopping center.
Pennant
A lightweight fabric or other material, whether or not containing a message of any kind,
suspended from a rope, wire, or string, designed to attract attention.
Perimeter Roads
The roads along the perimeter of buildings and at the ends of parking aisles where they abut
property lines and provide customer drop-off and pickup as well as emergency access to the
building.
PERMANENT SIGN
LETTERS, NUMERALS, SYMBOLS, AND/OR INSIGNIA THAT IS INTENDED TO BE DISPLAYED FOR AN
INDEFINITE OR LONG-LASTING PERIOD AND THE LETTERING OR MESSAGE OF WHICH IS INTENDED TO
REMAIN ESSENTIALLY UNCHANGED, EXCEPT FOR THE MAINTENANCE AGAINST NORMAL EFFECTS OF
EXPOSURE TO WEATHER.
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Permitted Use
A use specifically permitted or a use analogous to those specifically permitted.
Personal Services
An establishment where individual services are provided, including, but not limited to, barber
shops, salons, health/day spas including massage, dry cleaners and laundromats (not including
industrial cleaners), and teaching studios.
Pet
A non-hooved animal generally recognized as a domestic household animal.
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission of the Town of Oro Valley.
Plant Nursery
A place where young trees and/or other plants are raised for transplanting or for sale.
Plat
A map of a subdivision:
a. Final Plat shall mean a map of all or part of a subdivision providing substantial
conformance to an approved preliminary plat prepared by a registered civil engineer or a
registered land surveyor in accordance with Section 22.9.D of this code.
b. Recorded Plat shall mean a final plat bearing all of the certificates of approval required
in Section 22.9.F of this code and duly recorded in the Pima County Recorder’s Office.
Plate Line
The point at which the bottom of the main roof structure first touches or bears upon an
external wall.
POLE COVER
COVERS MADE FROM VARIOUS MATERIALS WHICH ENCLOSE OR CONCEAL A POLE OR OTHER
STRUCTURAL SUPPORTS OR MEMBERS TO THE SIGN.
Political Subdivision
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A separate legal entity of the State, including counties, cities, school districts or public fire or
emergency services, etc.
PORTABLE SIGN
ANY SIGN NOT PERMANENTLY ATTACHED TO THE GROUND OR OTHER PERMANENT STRUCTURE, OR A
SIGN DESIGNED TO BE TRANSPORTED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SIGNS DESIGNED TO BE
MOVED BY MEANS OF WHEELS; SIGNS CONVERTED INTO A-FRAMES; MENU AND SANDWICH BOARD
SIGNS; BALLOONS USED AS SIGNS; AND SIGNS ATTACHED TO OR PAINTED ON VEHICLES PARKED AND
VISIBLE FROM THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY, UNLESS THE VEHICLES ARE USED IN NORMAL DAY-TO-DAY
OPERATIONS OF THE BUSINESS.
POSTERS
A LARGE PRINTED DISPLAY OR PICTURE OFTEN POSTED IN A PUBLIC PLACE AS A NOTICE OR
ADVERTISEMENT.
PREMISES
ALL CONTIGUOUS LAND USED AND OCCUPIED BY AN ESTABLISHMENT, WHETHER OWNED OR LEASED
FROM ANOTHER. INCLUDED ARE ALL BUILDINGS, STORAGE AND SERVICE AREAS, AND PRIVATE ROADS
OR DRIVEWAYS WHICH ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE ESTABLISHMENT.
Preschool
See “Day care.”
Preservation
In the context of the environmentally sensitive lands conservation system, the attempt to
maintain land in its current condition to protect the area from negative human influence.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Private Club
An establishment, which may possess a series 14 liquor license, primarily organized for some
common social purpose, including veterans of foreign wars, American Legion and other similar
social organizations.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 51 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Prohibited Use
A use not specifically permitted or a use analogous to those not specifically permitted.
Projection
To jut out or hang over without supporting structural elements.
((O)18-15, 10/03/18)
PROJECTING SIGN
AN ON-SITE SIGN ATTACHED TO AND EXTENDING MORE THAN TWELVE (12) INCHES FROM A
STRUCTURE NOT DESIGNED EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE SUPPORT OF THE SIGN AND/OR A SIGN WHICH
PROJECTS FROM THE WALL OF A BUILDING OR STRUCTURE PERPENDICULAR TO THE WALL SURFACE.
Public Artwork
Artwork that is accessible to the community and the general public. It may be privately funded
and owned or it may be fully funded by public agencies for public benefit. Public artwork adds
aesthetic appeal, draws visitors and improves the image of the Town. It entails the application
of skill and taste by an artist in creating an original work of art. Privately funded and owned
public artwork may not include: directional graphics or color-coded location indicators,
mass-produced or standard “off-the-shelf” items, including playground equipment, fountains,
or statuary, and most art reproductions.
((O)14-02, 01/15/14; (O)08-23, 12/03/08)
PUBLIC SERVICE SIGN
A SIGN WHICH PROVIDES DIRECTIONS TO A PUBLIC OR QUASI-PUBLIC LOCATION SUCH AS
COMMUNITY CENTERS, SCHOOLS, TOWN FACILITIES, AND RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS.
QUASI-PUBLIC SIGNS
ANNOUNCEMENT SIGNS, ALONG WITH SPECIAL EVENT TYPE SIGNS, SHALL BE ALLOWED FOR
RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS, SCHOOLS, COMMUNITY CENTERS AND ANY OTHER PUBLIC OR
INSTITUTIONAL BUILDINGS WITHIN A COMMERCIAL OR RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 52 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Qualified Habitat Restoration Specialist
A person with a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a natural resources-related field, and five (5)
years of experience in the field of habitat biology.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Ranch
An area of ten (10) or more contiguous acres that is used for the raising of livestock on a
commercial basis.
REAL ESTATE SIGN
A SIGN PERTAINING TO THE SALE, RENT, OR LEASE OF THE PREMISES OR PORTION OF THE PREMISES
ON WHICH THE SIGN IS LOCATED.
REASONABLE REPAIRS
TO RESTORE AN EXISTING STRUCTURE TO A GOOD OR SOUND CONDITION RESULTING FROM DECAY
OR DAMAGE.
Recreation Area
A land area that is designated for recreation or contains specific facilities such as community
recreational centers, pedestrian ways, swimming pools, picnic facilities, basketball and sport
courts, playground equipment and exercise equipment.
Active
An area delineated for formal activities, which may or may not require equipment and take
place on a prescribed field. Active recreational areas include, but are not limited to, tennis,
volleyball, bocce ball and other court games, baseball, soccer and other field sports,
swimming pools, track and improved playground activity areas.
Passive
An area delineated for activities that involve relatively inactive or less energetic activities,
such as walking, sitting, picnicking, card games, checkers, and similar table games. Passive
recreational areas also include natural open space, which contain nature walks and
observation areas.
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Recreational Building
A building of which the primary use and function is for recreational activities.
Recreational Facilities
A place designed and equipped for the conduct of sports, exercise, and/or leisure-time
activities.
Religious Institution
A place of gathering or assembly with the primary purpose of religious worship. Typical
religious uses include, but are not limited to, churches, synagogues, mosques and temples.
((O)07-33, 09/19/07)
Research and Development
The conducting of research of a commercial, industrial, or scientific nature, including analytic,
diagnostic, processing, testing or experimentation and other types of laboratory services but
not for the manufacture or sale of products except as incidental to the main purpose of the
laboratory.
((O)20-06, 07/15/20)
RESIDENTIAL SIGN
A SIGN ON WHICH IS DISPLAYED THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE OCCUPANT.
Resort
A group or groups of buildings containing more than five (5) dwelling units and/or guest rooms
and providing outdoor recreational activities, which may include golf, horseback riding,
swimming, shuffleboard, tennis, and other similar activities, including associated lighting. A
resort may furnish services customarily furnished by a hotel including a restaurant, bar,
specialty retail shops, and convention facilities.
Restaurant
An establishment primarily engaged in the serving of food to the public.
Drive-In
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A building or structure where food and drink are served for consumption on the premises
by order from the service to a vehicular passenger outside the structure.
Drive-Through
A building or structure where food and drink are served for consumption within the
building or off the premises by order from vehicular passengers outside the structure
including, but not limited to, services from an outdoor service window.
Retail
A sale for any purpose in the form of tangible personal property.
General
An establishment primarily engaged in the sale of goods or products to the end consumer,
not including wholesale, manufacturing or other similar types of sales.
Retaining Wall
A wall designed to withstand lateral and hydrostatic pressures and built to keep earth from
sliding.
Revegetation
Placement of living plant materials including, but not limited to, seed on sites or cut-and-fill
slopes where the natural vegetation has been removed.
REVERSE CHANNEL LETTER
A SIGN WITH DIMENSIONAL CHARACTER(S) FABRICATED FROM OPAQUE MATERIAL TO FORM A PAN,
I.E., A FRONT AND SIDES. THE PAN IS FORMED IN THE SHAPE OF A CHARACTER. THE SIDES ARE STRIPS
OF MATERIAL FASTENED TO THE FRONT. THE BACK REMAINS OPEN. LIGHTING MAY BE INSTALLED
INSIDE THE PAN WHICH CREATES A HALO ILLUMINATION.
Ridge
A topographic feature above sloped areas fifteen percent (15%) and greater that forms a crest
or hilltop of at least eighty (80) feet in width. Ridges may include sloped areas as illustrated
below.
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((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Ring Road
A road that typically provides unimpeded access to the parking aisles from the access drives
and performs a collector function. A ring road is not primarily adjacent to the buildings except
in service areas.
Rip-Rap
A bed or wall consisting of stones placed in an irregular fashion.
Grouted
Rip-rap that is held together with or placed in cementatious material.
Riparian Habitats
Biological communities occurring in association with any spring, cienega, lake, watercourse,
river, stream, creek, wash, arroyo, or other body of water, either surface or subsurface, or any
channel having banks and beds through which water flows, at least periodically. Riparian
habitats may be generally characterized or distinguished into three (3) classes, hydroriparian,
mesoriparian, and xeroriparian, by a difference in plant species composition, or an increase in
the size and/or density of vegetation, as compared to upland areas, as follows:
a. Hydroriparian Habitats
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Riparian habitats generally associated with perennial water- courses, with plant
communities dominated by obligate or preferential wetland plant species, such as willow
and cottonwood.
b. Mesoriparian Habitats
Riparian habitats generally associated with perennial or intermittent flows, or shallow
ground water, with plant communities dominated by species that may also be found in
drier habitats, but contain some preferential riparian plant species, such as ash or netleaf
hackberry. The mesquite bosque and sycamore/ash association are examples of this
community type.
c. Xeroriparian Habitats
Xeroriparian habitats are supported by intermittent or ephemeral stream flows. Typical
species associated with this habitat type include mesquite, blue palo verde, desert willow,
catclaw acacia, whitehorn acacia, desert hackberry, and ironwood. Actual species
composition is typically a function of the extent and frequency of stream flow. Xeroriparian
habitats are present along washes throughout the Town of Oro Valley.
For the purposes of this classification system, xeroriparian habitats are further divided into
the following subcategories:
1. High Xeroriparian A Habitats
Generally associated with well-developed water- courses. The trees present are
generally sixteen (16) feet to twenty (20) feet tall or taller. The vegetative volume per
unit area within this habitat type is approximately 0.850 M3/M2 with much of the
volume present within the dense over-story.
The diversity of species is relatively greater than that associated with intermediate
xeroriparian b and low riparian c habitat types. Mesquite, desert willow, blue palo
verde, and desert hackberry are representative tree species within High Xeroriparian A
Habitat areas.
2. Intermediate Xeroriparian B Habitats
Typically occur along well-developed water- courses. The principal distinction between
Xeroriparian A and Xeroriparian B Habitats is that of plant size (height, trunk size, and
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total vegetative volume). Trees in this habitat type generally range from six (6) feet to
fifteen (15) feet tall. The under-story is often more extensive than Xeroriparian A
Habitats due to a more open over-story canopy.
Within Intermediate Xeroriparian B Habitats, the vegetative volume per unit area is
typically 0.675 M3/M2. Mesquite, ironwood, blue palo verde, catclaw acacia, desert
broom, and desert hackberry are representative of this habitat type.
3. Low Xeroriparian C Habitats
Typically occur along minor watercourses and along the peripheral edges of major
watercourses. The typical vegetative volume per unit area in this habitat type is
between 0.500 and 0.675 M3/M2. Whitethorn acacia, catclaw acacia, desert creosote
bush, bunchgrasses, and bursage are typically found within Low Xeroriparian C
Habitats.
4. Regional Drainageway
Not a single habitat type, but rather an aggregation of the habitat types described
above distributed continuously along a regional drainage- way. The regional
drainageway is significant in that it typically extends for lengths of several miles and
may extend from the urbanized portions of the Town into large tracts of undeveloped
public lands. Within the current boundaries of Oro Valley, this habitat feature occurs
along the Canada del Oro Wash and Big Wash.
The regional drainageway typically consists of patches of Xeroriparian A, B, and C.
Habitats, separated by areas of sparsely vegetated or nonvegetated wash bottom all of
which is within the undeveloped floodplain.
The high habitat value associated with regional drainageways stems from their length
(which can be uninterrupted for lengths of several miles), their width (which provides
habitat areas that are relatively isolated from adjacent urban developments), and their
configuration (which provides connections between various tributary channels and, in
some instances, connections to tracts of preserved natural open space).
ROAD CONSTRUCTION SIGN
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TEMPORARY BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION SIGNAGE TO ENHANCE VISIBILITY OF PROPERTIES WITH
COMMERCIAL, MULTIFAMILY OR RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS DURING ROAD CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.
ROOFLINE
THE TOP EDGE OF THE ROOF OR THE TOP OF THE PARAPET, WHICHEVER FORMS THE TOP LINE OF THE
BUILDING SILHOUETTE.
ROOF SIGN
A SIGN THAT IS MOUNTED ON, ABOVE, OR OVER THE ROOF OF A BUILDING, SO THAT IT PROJECTS
ABOVE THE HIGHEST POINT OF THE ROOFLINE, PARAPET, OR FASCIA OF THE BUILDING.
Scenic Resource Conservation Area
Lands adjacent to designated scenic corridors where the land use and design requirements of
the ESL scenic resources category apply.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
School
A place of general instruction.
Private
A place of general instruction, such as private academies, business schools or colleges that
are not a charter school or part of a public school system.
Public
A place of general instruction which are recognized by the Arizona Department of
Education as a charter school or as part of a public school system.
Screen
An opaque barrier designed and installed to conceal areas used for storage, refuse, mechanical
equipment, parking or delivery service loading bays from street and public view, or to buffer
adjacent uses.
Screen Wall
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An opaque wall at least six (6) feet in height located along the perimeter of a said use that abuts
a residential use, the purpose of which is to minimize any impacts associated with contiguous
or adjacent land uses.
((O)11-15, 05/18/11)
Sculptured Rock
A soil stabilization treatment using a material, such as concrete or gunite, which is sculpted to
resemble natural stone.
SEASONAL SIGN
SEASONAL SIGNS MAY INCLUDE DECORATIONS, HOLIDAY LIGHTS, GARLAND, OR SIMILAR TREATMENT
ORIENTED TOWARD A HOLIDAY EVENT. HOLIDAY BANNERS ARE ALLOWED IN ACCORDANCE WITH
SUBSECTION 28.6.B.1.C OF THIS SECTION, SEASONAL BANNERS. SEASONAL SIGNS AND DECORATIONS
SHALL BE TEMPORARILY DISPLAYED FOR TRADITIONALLY ACCEPTED CIVIC, PATRIOTIC, OR RELIGIOUS
HOLIDAYS.
SEASONAL OR EVENT BANNER
A SEASONAL OR EVENT BANNER MAY BE USED TO ADVERTISE A SEASONAL OR SPECIAL EVENT IN ANY
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL ZONING DISTRICT.
Self Storage
An establishment providing temporary storage facilities to one (1) or more individuals as a
primary use.
Senior Care Facility
A health care facility providing single or multiple types of senior care, including independent
living facilities or facilities defined and licensed by the State of Arizona as an assisted living
facility, hospice in-patient facility, nursing care institution or similarly licensed facilities.
Sanatoriums and Senior Care Facilities
((O)15-16, 11/08/15)
Setback
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The shortest straight line distance in feet from the nearest property or lot boundary to a main
or accessory building, structure, sign or the like located on the same property or lot.
Nakoma Sky Setback Measurement
Covered Porch in Front Setback
SERVICE STATION/FUEL SIGN
A PERMANENT, TWO (2) COMPONENT, MONUMENT STYLE SIGN DISPLAYING FUEL PRICES, FUEL TYPES,
NAME OF STATION, AND/OR LOGOS.
Sexually Oriented Business
Classified as the following:
a. Adult arcades;
b. Adult bookstores, adult novelty shops or adult video stores;
c. Adult cabarets;
d. Adult motels;
e. Adult motion picture theaters;
f. Adult theaters;
g. Adult vending machines;
h. Escort agencies;
i. Nude model studios; and
j. Sexual encounter centers.
Refer to the Oro Valley Town Code Section 8-4-1 for further definition of the above listed
classifications.
((O)06-06, 04/19/06)
Shared Access
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Shared ingress/egress points for vehicular circulation purposes.
Shopping Center
A group of stores planned and designed for the site on which it is built, functioning as a unit,
with common points of ingress and egress.
Short Term
A time period no more than seven (7) days.
Short-Term Rental Property
A building(s) of a residential character other than a hotel or motel compatible with the
neighborhood offering temporary lodging for less than one (1) month (30 days).
Significant Vegetation (SV)
Specific plant communities, and/or unique plant occurrences, and/or unique individual
specimens that demonstrate, through the presence of certain criteria areas, special value to the
Sonoran desert ecosystem:
a. Plant community is an area of vegetation dominated by one (1) or more species.
Climate, elevation, soil types and other factors ultimately determine the limits and
boundaries of particular plant communities. Examples of a plant community dominated by
one (1) species are desert grassland and creosote bush association, or a grove of trees, for
example mesquite bosque. These communities can form almost pure stands of single
species. Examples of co-dominant plant communities are cottonwood-willow and palo
verde-saguaro association. Plant communities create an environment that is beneficial,
unique, and/or valuable to the desert ecosystem.
b. Unique plant occurrences are areas of vegetation that exist in contrast to the majority
of the surrounding vegetative community due to either microclimates or availability of
water sources. Examples are stands of ironwood trees or riparian areas.
c. Unique plant refers to any native tree, shrub, or cacti with extraordinary characteristics
such as, but not limited to, age, size, shape, form, canopy cover, or aesthetic value. An
example may be crested saguaros, a rare, massive ancient tree, or tree with unusual shape.
Signs
See Chapter 28 for definitions and requirements.
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SIGN
EVERY MESSAGE, ANNOUNCEMENT, DECLARATION, DISPLAY, ILLUSTRATION, INSIGNIA, CHARACTER,
SURFACE, OR SPACE ERECTED, MAINTAINED OR ATTACHED TO ANY STRUCTURE, SURFACE, OR THING
AND MADE VISIBLE FOR THE PURPOSE OF ATTRACTING ATTENTION OR TO MAKING SOMETHING
KNOWN TO THE PUBLIC.
SIGN AREA ALLOTMENT
THE PERMITTED AMOUNT OF IDENTIFICATION SIGN AREA ON RATIO TO THE LINEAR FOOTAGE OF
BUILDING FRONTAGE.
SIGN MODIFICATION
ANY CHANGE TO AN EXISTING SIGN’S COPY, COLOR, AND/OR SUPPORTING STRUCTURES.
SIGN STRUCTURE
A FREESTANDING WALL, POLE, PEDESTAL, OR OBJECT ERECTED FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUPPORTING
THE SIGN.
Site
A land area designated for development as a single entity, exclusive of any public right-of-way
or property, which consists of one (1) parcel or any number of contiguous parcels.
Site-Delivered Dwelling
A dwelling that is not constructed on the site on which it is located. Site-delivered homes
include prefabricated housing, manufactured housing, and mobile homes. Site-delivered
homes do not include recreation vehicles.
Site Perimeter Setback
Measured from the property line of the outer edge of a development envelope containing all of
the buildings.
((O)20-06, 07/15/20)
Site Plan
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A plan drawing of an individual site (see definition, “Site”) including the layout of buildings,
circulation system, parking, walls, landscaping, open space, and any other appropriate
information as required by the Town of Oro Valley to provide adequate public review.
Site Resource Inventory
A primary evaluative design tool upon which site design and salvage plans are based. The
information contained in the site resource inventory shall be utilized for purposes of site
planning and design, and shall describe and identify natural characteristics of the site, including
areas of significant vegetation. Preservation of protected natural area and significant vegetation
shall be a primary consideration.
Sleeping Unit
A room or space arranged, designed or used as living quarters, with sleeping and living areas
and bathroom facilities, without full kitchen facilities.
((O)09-05, 06/17/09)
Slope
Degree of deviation of a surface from the horizontal; measured as a numerical ratio, percent, or
in degrees. Expressed as a ratio, the first number is the horizontal distance (run) and the
second is the vertical distance (rise), as 2:1. A 2:1 slope is a fifty percent (50%) slope. Expressed
in degrees, the slope is the angle from the horizontal plane, with a ninety (90)-degree slope
being vertical (maximum) and forty-five (45) degrees being a 1:1 or one hundred percent (100%)
slope.
Slope, Exposed, Height of
Vertical dimension of the exposed slope, measured from the top of the adjacent finished grade
to the point where the cut or fill slope intercepts the natural grade.
Slope Interceptor Drain
A drainage swale designed to collect and divert the flow of water.
Small Cell Wireless Facility
A wireless facility that meets both of the following:
a. All antennas are located inside an enclosure of not more than six (6) cubic feet in
volume or, in the case of an antenna that has exposed elements, the antenna and all of the
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antenna’s exposed elements could fit within an imaginary enclosure of not more than six
(6) cubic feet in volume.
b. All other wireless equipment associated with the facility is cumulatively not more than
twenty-eight (28) cubic feet in volume, or fifty (50) cubic feet in volume if the equipment
was ground-mounted before August 9, 2017. The following types of associated ancillary
equipment are not included in the calculation of equipment volume pursuant to this
subdivision:
i. An electric meter;
ii. Concealment elements;
iii. A telecommunications demarcation box;
iv. Grounding equipment;
v. A power transfer switch;
vi. A cutoff switch;
vii. Vertical cable runs for the connection of power and other services.
((O)18-02, 01/17/18)
Soil
Naturally occurring deposits overlying bedrock.
Soils Engineer of Record
A person whose discipline is soils engineering, who has prepared and sealed a geotechnical
report for a specific property.
Sound Exposure Level
A descriptor for characterizing the sound from individual acoustical events.
A-Weighted Sound Exposure Level
A sound exposure level obtained from an A-weighted sound pressure level.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
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Sound Pressure
A disturbance of the atmospheric pressure with respect to the mean barometric pressure
producing the sensation of hearing or vibration measured in units of pascal (Pa).
Peak Sound Pressure
The largest absolute value of the instantaneous sound pressure in pascals (Pa) in a stated
frequency band during a specified time interval.
Sound Pressure Level
The sound pressure expressed as a decibel.
A-Weighted Sound Pressure Level
Sound pressure level obtained using an “A” frequency weighting filter as defined in the
Town of Oro Valley noise abatement technical bulletin.
Equivalent Continuous Sound Pressure Level
The sound pressure level of a steady, continuous sound having the same sound energy as
the time varying sound measured.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Sound Level Meter (SLM), Type 1
An instrument used to measure sound pressure levels meeting the standards for accuracy
established in the Town of Oro Valley noise abatement techinical bulletin.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Soundproof
A condition where no noise, to a reasonable person, would be discernible at the nearest
property line.
Special Use
A temporary use of a property for a special event, which may or may not be in compliance with
the standards of the zoning district in which it is to be located. Said uses, which may be public
or private, may include, but are not limited to, civic, philanthropic, educational, religious,
sporting, and/or social events, fundraisers, or holiday sales, or any other special temporary use,
as may be deemed analogous to these examples by the Planning and Zoning Administrator.
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Food Trucks
Sport Court
A surface prepared for the purpose of playing sporting activities including tennis, basketball,
volleyball, croquet, shuffleboard, bocce, pickle ball and/or other similar activities.
Stabilization
Treatment with mitigation measures in accordance with the erosion or siltation resistance, or
the structural strength, of a graded area.
Stable
An area used for the storage and keeping of horses, mules or ponies.
Commercial
An area of ten (10) or more contiguous acres containing a stable for horses, mules, or
ponies that are hired, bred, shown, or boarded on a commercial basis. Commercial stables
must meet the conditions of Section 25.1.B.4 of this Code.
Private
A detached accessory building for the keeping of horses, mules, or ponies owned by the
occupants of the premises and not kept for remuneration, hire, or sale.
Stockpile
The storage of uncompacted earth material.
Story
That portion of a building included between the upper surface of any floor and the upper
surface of the floor next above, except that the topmost story shall be that portion of a building
included between the upper surface of the topmost floor and the ceiling or roof above.
Street
A street, avenue, boulevard, road, lane, parkway, place, alley easement for access, viaduct or
bridge and approaches thereto. A street includes the land between the right-of-way lines
whether improved or unimproved and may comprise pavements, shoulders, curbs, gutters,
sidewalks, parking areas and lawns.
a. Arterial Route (principal arterial)
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Those Interstate, State, or County highways, freeways, expressways, and major
thoroughfares having regional continuity.
b. Collector Street
Those streets providing the traffic movement within neighborhoods of the Town and
between major streets and local streets and for direct access to abutting property.
c. Local Street
Those streets providing direct access to residential, commercial, or other abutting land or
for local traffic movements and connects to collector or major streets.
d. Frontage Street
A local street parallel and adjacent to an arterial route which intercepts local streets and
controls access to an arterial route.
e. Cul-de-Sac
A short local street permanently terminated in a vehicular turnaround.
f. Alley
A public service way used to provide secondary vehicular access to properties otherwise
abutting upon a street.
Front Lot Line for Lindbergh Drive Property
Street Centerline
The centerline of a street right-of-way as determined by the Town Engineer.
Street Line
A dividing line between a lot, tract or parcel of land and a contiguous street (right-of-way).
Front Lot Line for Lindbergh Drive Property
Structural Alterations
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A change in the supporting members of a building such as bearing walls or partitions, columns,
beams or girders or any complete rebuilding of a roof.
Structure
A piece of work constructed or erected, the use of which requires a location on the ground or
attached to something having a location on the ground, but not including a tent, vehicle, trailer
coach, or mobile homes.
Structure, Temporary
A piece of work that is readily movable and used or intended to be used for a period not to
exceed ninety (90) consecutive days. Such structure shall be subject to all applicable property
development standards for the district in which it is located.
Studio, Commercial or Fine Arts
A studio used for professional work or the teaching of any form of commercial or fine arts.
SUBCONTRACTOR SIGN
A TEMPORARY SIGN WHICH IDENTIFIES THE FIRM, BUSINESS, PERSONS, OR ENTITY RESPONSIBLE FOR
WORK OR ACTIVITY IN PROGRESS AT THE LOCATION OF THE SIGN.
Subdivider
An individual, firm, corporation, partnership, association, syndication, trust or other legal entity
that files the application and initiates proceedings for the subdivision of land in accordance
with the provisions of this code; and the subdivider need not be the owner of the property.
Subdivision
Improved or unimproved land or lands divided for the purpose of financing sale or lease,
whether immediate or future, into four (4) or more lots, tracts or parcels of land or, if a new
street is involved, any such property which is divided into two (2) or more lots, tracts or parcels
of land or any such property, the boundaries of which have been fixed by recorded plat which is
divided into more than two (2) parts.
“Subdivision” shall also include any condominium, cooperative, community apartment,
townhouse or similar project containing four (4) or more parcels in which an undivided interest
in the land is coupled with the right of exclusive occupancy of any unit located thereon, but
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plats of such projects need not show the buildings or the manner in which the buildings or air
space above the property shown on the plat are to be divided.
“Subdivision” shall not include the following:
a. The sale or exchange of parcels of land to or between adjoining property owners if
such sale or exchange does not create additional lots.
b. The partitioning of land in accordance with other statutes regulating the partitioning of
land held in common ownership.
c. The leasing of apartments, offices, stores, or similar space within a building or trailer
park, nor to mineral, oil, or gas leases.
Survey
An activity with the purpose of locating, identifying, and evaluating cultural or archaeological
sites without causing any disturbance of the ground.
Swimming Pool
A contained body of water used for swimming or bathing purposes either above ground level or
below ground level with the depth of the container being more than eighteen (18) inches in
depth or the area being more than thirty-eight (38) square feet.
Private
A pool established or maintained on any premises by an individual for his own or his
family’s use or for guests of the household.
Public
A municipal, county, or commercial pool, admission to which may be gained by the general
public with or without payment of a fee.
Semi-Public
A membership pool or cooperative pool or a pool at an establishment such as a resort,
motel, apartment building or other places where the primary business of the establishment
is not the operation of swimming facilities and where admission to use the pool is included
in consideration given for the primary use of the premises.
SYMBOL
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A LETTER, FIGURE, OR OTHER CONVENTIONAL MARK DESIGNATING AN OBJECT, QUANTITY,
OPERATION, FUNCTION, OR THE LIKE.
TAGLINE
AN ACCESSORY WALL SIGN CONTAINING A GROUPING OF LETTERS OR CHARACTERS BUILT INTO A
SINGLE PAN CHANNEL OR REVERSE PAN CHANNEL PLATFORM THAT CONTAINS MODIFIERS OR IS USED
TO CONVEY INFORMATION RELATING TO THE BUSINESS SUCH AS GOODS, SERVICES, PRODUCTS OR
BUSINESS ASSOCIATES.
Technical and Professional Standards and Guidelines
All aspects of the archaeological mitigation and data recovery efforts shall be conducted by a
professional archaeologist using accepted professional standards and practices consistent with
guidelines included in the Advisory Town Council on Historic Preservation 1980 Handbook;
Guidelines for Recovery of Scientific, Prehistoric, Historic, and Archaeological Data: Methods,
Standards, and Reporting Requirements (36 CFR 66, dated January 28, 1977); the Standards of
Research Performance of the Society of Professional Archaeologists; and the Secretary of the
Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archaeological Documentation (Federal Register, dated
September 29, 1983).
Technical Services
An establishment providing services to businesses or individuals of a technical nature, including
mail service, printing, photocopying, data and computer access centers.
((O)20-06, 07/15/20)
Temporary Fencing
A light, temporary barrier, as approved by the Town, that clearly and conspicuously delineates
areas designated to remain undisturbed or that are to be protected during construction.
Temporary Lighting
Lighting used for a limited duration; for example, holiday decorations, civic events, or
construction projects.
TEMPORARY SIGN
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The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
ANY DISPLAY IN PUBLIC VIEW TO ADVERTISE OR CONVEY INFORMATION OR DIRECTION WHICH IS
INTENDED TO BE DISPLAYED FOR A LIMITED OR FINITE PERIOD OF TIME ONLY. THE TYPE, QUALITY,
AND MATERIALS OF CONSTRUCTION OF WHICH, ALTHOUGH VISUALLY ATTRACTIVE AND STRUCTURALLY
SOUND, ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE LONG LASTING.
Terrace
A relatively level step construction in the face of a graded slope surface for drainage and
maintenance purposes.
Testing, Archaeological
The limited subsurface excavation or remote sensing of a proposed disturbance (or portion
thereof) to determine the potential, type, or extent of the archaeological site. Testing may
include trenching and establishing archaeological excavation units and will include the
screening of excavated material for artifact recovery.
Theater
An establishment where primarily movies, shows or performances are shown or conducted,
including movie theaters, playhouses and other performing arts centers.
THEATER SIGN
A MONUMENT STYLE OR WALL SIGN WITH CHANGEABLE COPY PANELS USED TO DISPLAY THE
CURRENT MOVIES AND TIMES THEY ARE PLAYING WITHIN THE THEATER.
THREE-DAY SPECIAL EVENT BANNER
DEFINITION: A BANNER MAY BE PERMITTED ON THE DAY(S) OF A SPECIAL EVENT, BUT SHALL NOT BE
USED TO ADVERTISE ANY EVENT THAT EXCEEDS THREE (3) DAYS IN DURATION.
TIME AND TEMPERATURE SIGN
AN ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED SIGN THAT PROVIDES THE CURRENT TIME AND/OR TEMPERATURE.
Timeshare Plan
A plan or program in which the use, occupancy, or possession of one (1) or more time-share
units circulates among various persons for less than a sixty (60)-day period in any year, for any
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 72 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
occupant. The timeshare plan includes both timeshare ownership plans and timeshare use
plans, as follows:
a. Ownership Plan
Any arrangement whether by tenancy in common, sale, deed, or other means whereby the
purchaser receives any ownership interest and the right to use the property for a specific
or discernible period by temporal division; and
b. Use Plan
Any arrangement, excluding normal hotel operations, whether by membership agreement,
lease rental agreement, license, use agreement, security or other means, whereby the
purchaser receives a right to use accommodations or facilities, or both, in a timeshare unit
for a specific or discernible period by temporal division, but does not receive an ownership
interest.
Timeshare Unit
The accommodations and related facilities which are the subject of a timeshare plan.
Tonal Sound
Sound having one (1) or more single frequency oscillations (pure tones) or that is confined to a
narrow band of frequencies meeting the criteria for tonal prominence.
((O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Tot Lot
A small (typically less than one-half (1/2) acre) recreational area primarily intended for young
children (ages eight (8) and under), with a primary emphasis on playground equipment and
supporting amenities and infrastructure.
((O)11-05, 04/20/11)
Tower
A facility used for wireless communication facility mounts and consists of more than a single
shaft of steel or concrete.
Town
The Town of Oro Valley.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 73 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Town Council
The Town Council of the Town of Oro Valley.
Townhouse
A dwelling with party walls and no side yards between abutting dwellings.
((O)18-12, 07/18/18)
TRAFFIC SIGN
AN ON-SITE OR OFF-SITE SIGN FOR WHICH THE SOLE PURPOSE AND PLACEMENT ARE SOLELY TO
DEFINE AND STREAMLINE THE FLOW OF VEHICULAR TRAFFIC SO AS TO MINIMIZE CONGESTION AND
PROMOTE SAFETY.
Transportation Plan
A plan that provides for the development of a system of streets and highways including the
location and alignment of existing and proposed thoroughfares, bicycle paths, frontage roads,
and limited access to Oracle Road.
Treatment Plan
A plan prepared by a qualified cultural resource professional for the preservation, data
recovery, excavation, archiving, monitoring, adaptive reuse, curation, and/or documentation of
one (1) or more significant archaeological resources, buildings, structures, sites, landscapes, or
artifacts.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Turnover
The number of different vehicles that park in a given space during an average day.
UNDER-CANOPY SIGN
A WALL-MOUNTED OR HANGING SIGN WHICH IDENTIFIES THE BUSINESS NAME AND/OR LOGO.
UNDER-CANOPY SIGNS SHALL BE CONSISTENT IN COLOR, SHAPE, DESIGN, AND MATERIALS, IF THE
DEVELOPMENT HAS AN APPROVED SIGN CRITERIA OR MASTER SIGN PROGRAM. AN UNDER-CANOPY
SIGN SHALL BE LOCATED ENTIRELY UNDER A COVERED PORCH, WALKWAY, EXTENDED ROOF OR
SIMILAR STRUCTURE AND IS SOLELY FOR DIRECTING PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 74 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
UNOCCUPIED
A PREMISES OR STRUCTURE WHICH IS NOT OCCUPIED OR BEING PUT TO THOSE USES AS AUTHORIZED
BY THE LAST BUSINESS PRIVILEGE LICENSE ISSUED BY THE TOWN FOR THAT ADDRESS AND BUSINESS
OR A PREMISES OR STRUCTURE WHERE THE PUBLIC UTILITIES ARE NOT IN SERVICE.
Unshielded Light Fixture
A luminary without all of the shielding necessary to be defined as a full cutoff light fixture.
Usable Lot Area
That portion of a lot usable for or adaptable to the normal uses made of residential property
excluding any areas which may be covered by water, excessively steep or included in certain
types of easements.
Use
The purpose for which land or a building is occupied or maintained, arranged, designed or
intended.
Use Permit
A permit granted to a property owner by the Town Council to conduct a use allowed as a use in
a zoning district subject to a use permit. A use permit may be granted in accordance with the
provisions of Section 22.5.
Utilities
Installations or facilities, underground or overhead, furnishing for the use of the public
electricity, gas, steam, cable TV communication, water, drainage, sewage disposal or flood
control owned and operated by any person, firm, corporation, municipal department or board
duly authorized by State or municipal regulations. Utility or utilities may also refer to such
persons, firms, corporations, departments, or boards as sense requires.
Utility Poles and Wires
Poles, towers, structures, wire, cable, conduit, transformers and related facilities used in or as a
part of the transportation or distribution of electric power or in the transmission of telephone,
telegraph, or television communication.
Variance
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 75 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A modification of the literal provisions of this zoning code granted by the Board of Adjustment
upon a finding that strict enforcement of the provisions would cause undue hardship owing to
circumstances unique to the individual property for which the variance is granted.
((O)20-08, 10/07/20)
Vehicle
A device in, on or by which a person or property is or may be transported or drawn.
Vehicle Dealer
An agency selling new or used motor vehicles and providing services commonly associated with
motor vehicle sales.
Vehicle Repair
All aspects of motor vehicle repair including, but not limited to, lubrication, tune-up, and
preventive maintenance.
Vehicle Repair Facility
A facility that provides for the repair or maintenance of motor vehicles.
VEHICLE SIGN
A SIGN THAT IS MOUNTED, PAINTED, OR ERECTED UPON TRUCKS, CARS, BOATS, TRAILERS, OR OTHER
MOTORIZED VEHICLES OR EQUIPMENT THAT IS PARKED FOR THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF FUNCTIONING
AS A SIGN.
Vehicle Storage Facility
A facility whose primary purpose is the temporary storage of motor vehicles, including parking
garages.
Vehicle Wash
A convenience use for the cleaning and washing of motor vehicles including interior cleaning
and vacuuming and waxing.
Veterinary Services
An establishment where animals or pets are given medical or surgical treatment and are cared
for during the time of such treatment.
Visibility Nuisance
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 76 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
A use that creates a hazard to air navigation by reducing visibility.
Visually Significant Slopes
Sloped areas of fifteen percent (15%) and greater visible from scenic corridors, public
rights-of-way, public parks and all trails identified in the Oro Valley Trails Master Plan.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Volume
The degree of sound intensity or audibility.
Volume, Building
The volume of a building that occupies a particular site. Volume of a building shall be
determined by multiplying the gross floor area of the individual floors by the height of that
story.
Volume Ratio
The ratio of building volume to the net lot area of the building site.
Wall
A structure or device required or allowed by this code forming a physical barrier, constructed
such that fifty percent (50%) or more of the vertical surface is closed and prevents the passage
of light, air, and vision through said surface in a horizontal plane. Where a masonry wall is
specified, said wall shall be concrete block, brick, stone or other similar material and one
hundred percent (100%) of the vertical surface shall be closed except for approved gates or
other access ways.
Masonry
A wall constructed of concrete block, brick, stone or other similar material, forming a
physical barrier, constructed such that one hundred percent (100%) of the vertical surface
is closed and prevents the passage of light, air, and vision through said surface in a
horizontal plane, except for approved gates or other access ways.
Solid
A wall forming a physical barrier, constructed such that one hundred percent (100%) of the
vertical surface is closed and prevents the passage of light, air, and vision through said
surface in a horizontal plane, except for approved gates or other access ways.
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 77 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
WALL SIGN
ANY SIGN WHICH IS FASTENED, ATTACHED, CONNECTED, OR SUPPORTED IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY A
BUILDING OR STRUCTURE OTHER THAN A SIGN STRUCTURE WHICH IS SUPPORTED WHOLLY BY THE
GROUND WITH THE EXPOSED FACE OF THE SIGN IN A PLANE PARALLEL TO THE PLANE OF THE WALL.
Warehouse
An establishment where the primary service is for the storage and distribution of goods of any
type and where a showroom is permitted as an ancillary use.
Heavy
A warehousing establishment which may have a negative impact on adjacent properties
and that does not comply with Section 25.1.B.34.
Light
A warehousing establishment which does not have a negative impact on adjacent
properties in accordance with Section 25.1.B.34.
((O)20-06, 07/15/20)
WINDOW SIGN
ANY FORM OF ADVERTISEMENT AND/OR IDENTIFICATION ASSOCIATED WITH THE BUSINESS THAT IS
AFFIXED TO THE INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR OF A WINDOW, OR PLACED IMMEDIATELY BEHIND A WINDOW
SO AS TO INFORM OR ATTRACT ATTENTION TO THE PUBLIC OUTSIDE OF THE BUILDING AND/OR
TENANT SPACE.
Wholesale
The sale of tangible personal property for resale by a licensed retailer and not the sale of
tangible personal property for consumption by the purchaser.
Wildlife Permeable Development
Residential development with a developed density of one (1) home per acre or less and fences
and walls that are wildlife-friendly and do not impede the movement of wildlife between
adjacent lots or between the development and adjacent open space areas.
((O)11-01, 02/16/11)
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 78 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
Wireless Communications Facility
A facility for the transmission and/or reception of radio frequency signals. Any device, including
DBS satellite dishes, used to receive signals from direct broadcast satellites (DBS); multi-channel
multi-point distribution providers (MMDS); and television broadcast stations (TVBS).
Yard
Those required areas established by setbacks to provide an open space at grade level between
a building and the adjoining lot lines unoccupied and unobstructed by any portion of a
structure from the ground upward except as otherwise provided herein.
Front
An open, unoccupied space on the same lot with the main building extending the full width
of the lot and situated between the street line and the front line of the main building,
projected to the side lines of the lot. The front yard of a commercial corner lot is the yard
adjacent to the major street as determined by the Town Engineer.
Front Lot Line for Lindbergh Drive Property
Nakoma Sky Setback Measurement
Covered Porch in Front Setback
Interior
The side yard adjacent to a common lot line.
Rear
An open space on the same lot with a main building between the rear line of the main
building and the rear line of the lot, as defined herein, extending the full width of the lot.
Side
An open, unoccupied space on the same lot with a main building situated between the
building and the side line of the lot and extending from the front yard to the rear yard. The
side yard adjacent to a common lot line.
((O)16-16, 12/07/16)
((O)20-08, 10/07/20; (O)20-07, 09/16/20)
Chapter 31 Definitions | Oro Valley Zoning Code Page 79 of 79
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4, 2020.
The Oro Valley Zoning Code is current through Ordinance (O)20-10, passed November 4,
2020.
Disclaimer: The Town Clerk’s Office has the official version of the Oro Valley Zoning Code. Users
should contact the Town Clerk's Office for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance
cited above.
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Town Website: www.orovalleyaz.gov
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