Planning & Zoning Commission - September 9, 2026

The City of Flagstaff Planning & Zoning Commission met on September 9, 2026, to discuss proposed amendments to the zoning code, focusing primarily on outdoor lighting standards and the zoning map amendment process. The outdoor lighting update included changes to lighting classifications, lumen caps, and shielding standards, aiming to better regulate lighting types such as flag and monument lighting and address concerns about white light usage in certain areas. The commission also reviewed a proposal to streamline the zoning map amendment process by consolidating the current two-path system (direct to ordinance and conceptual) into a single streamlined process. This change would reduce the requirement to tie rezonings to specific site or concept plans, providing more flexibility to developers but raising concerns among commissioners about reduced public transparency and input on development specifics. The discussion highlighted the balance between meeting state-mandated review timeframes and maintaining community engagement and oversight. Public comments emphasized the need to make the rezoning process more attractive to developers to support regional plan goals, particularly for affordable housing. No contract awards or vendor selections were discussed during the meeting.