FAQs

Land use refers to the activities or purposes for which land is used or developed. It involves the actual physical or economic use of land, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural. Land use decisions consider factors like environmental impacts, economic development, social equity, and community needs. Planning for land use involves determining the most appropriate locations for different types of development to achieve a balance between competing interests and to promote efficient use of resources.

Zoning is a regulatory tool used to manage the use of land and structures within specific geographic areas. The county is divided into different zones or districts, each with its own set of regulations regarding allowable land uses, building heights, densities, setbacks, and other development standards.

Cochise County has adopted seven community area plans. All were adopted between the years of 1996 and 2006. Since 2006, no new plans have been created and there have been no updates to any existing plans. In general, special area plans should be updated at least every 10 years to coincide with comprehensive plan updates. Updates help ensure the plans are keeping up with changes in population demographics, economic conditions, transportation patterns, and environmental considerations. Updates also help align special area plans with changes in local, regional, or state policies, as well as zoning changes. Finally, updates can provide opportunities for ongoing community engagement and input, ensuring that the special area plan continues to reflect the desires and priorities of residents, businesses, and other stakeholders.

The county may include recommendations to consider the creation and adoption of future community area plans; however, the community plans currently in existence will not be included in the 2045 Comprehensive Plan.

Updating future land use maps helps ensure that land development is managed effectively, supporting balanced growth, economic development, and sustainability. Since the last comprehensive plan update, the population has grown. As the county evolve, residents' needs and preferences might change. Regular updates to land use maps help align planning with community goals and priorities.