PIMA — The Town of Pima is one step closer to finally requiring permits before new home and commercial construction takes place.
As explained by Public Works Director Jimmy Lofgreen, during the Town Council’s February meeting, the town has been operating for decades on best intentions.
“Our town code, as it reads right now, does not require a permit,” he said. “There’s nowhere in our town code that says, ‘You must have a building permit.’ ”
Installation of block walls would require a building permit; however installation of other types of fencing, sidewalks and driveways would require for approval just a site visit by Public Works, to ensure there is no encroachment on town right-of-way or neighboring properties.
A resolution to amend town code to include the building permit requirement will come back before the Town Council for final adoption.
Lofgreen also received approval by the Town Council to place a six-month moratorium on the start of new multi-family development.
He said that multi-family developments are currently allowed in all residential zones, and the temporary stoppage is needed for Planning and Zoning to define the proper zones for both single- and multi-family housing units.
The council agreed the moratorium can be extended if more time is needed by Planning and Zoning.
Meanwhile, a vote on adoption of regulations for an industrial zone ended in a 2-2 tie, leaving the town currently without rules regarding appropriate uses in the town’s industrial areas.
