The Planning and Zoning Division plays a vital role in shaping the future of Carefree by guiding development in accordance with the community’s vision and values. Through careful planning, coordination, and enforcement of regulations, the division strives to maintain Carefree’s distinctive character while fostering responsible growth and economic prosperity.

The Planning and Zoning Division oversees all aspects relating to both short-range and long-range planning and development in the Town of Carefree. This responsibility includes managing and implementing the Town’s General Plan. The Carefree General Plan, which was last updated in 2024, outlines the general policies for development in the Town. The Zoning Ordinance, Town Code, Subdivision Ordinance, and Building Code provide the local regulations.  For more information on the General Plan, click HERE.

A hard copy of General Plan 2030 (PDF) may be viewed at Town Hall for free or purchased for $30 to recoup copy fees. If you have any questions, you may call the Planning and Zoning Staff at 480-488-3686 or visit the Carefree Administrative Offices, located at 8 Sundial Circle.

NOTE: Certain developments require approvals from different review boards such as the Planning and Zoning Commission, Development Review Board, Board of Adjustment, and/or the Town Council, depending on the type of proposal.  The members of the Planning & Zoning Commission also serve on the Development Review Board and Board of Adjustment.  Prior to developing a property, applicants are encouraged to discuss the project with Town Staff to ensure the project and process comply with all applicable regulations.

Special Projects/Projects of Interest, in essence, are long-range planning efforts that address the vision, values, and goals of Carefree, typically as it pertains to its physical development. Often these Special Projects are in association with the Economic Development Division to assist with Economic Development initiatives that will ultimately help diversify and enhance the community's ability to provide core municipal services. 

A key component to such efforts is community outreach at every level of the planning process. Often times key stakeholder groups made up of interested citizens, property owners, and local businesses are formed to provide staff and/or consultants feedback and direction based on their perspectives and roles in the community. Staff encourages a meaningful public participation and engagement process for all projects, plans, and implementation programs.

Learn more about current special projects underway in conjunction with Stakeholders, Town Boards and Commissions, and Town Council with the buttons below.

New development projects of interest and other related information are listed below.  Residents can find information about upcoming plans and/or proposals that may impact the local area.

• No current projects

What is a General Plan?

The General Plan acts as the primary foundation for advancing the Town into the future. Centered on a desired community vision, the General Plan is supported with subsequent Goals, Policies, Actions and Framework Plans to help inform decision-making in a manner that is consistent with the long-term aspirations of the Town. The General Plan also informs the development and management of various Town codes, regulations, departmental plans, initiatives, and areas of focus to further ensure near-term decisions are aligned with the 10-20 year planning horizon of this plan.