Residential Site Planning Landscape
If you’re planning new construction in Scottsdale’s beautiful Foothills Overlay zoning district, you’ve probably heard of the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Ordinance (ESLO). It might sound a bit intimidating, but don’t worry—I’m here to break it down for you. Think of the ESLO as Scottsdale’s way of ensuring that while we build beautiful homes, we also protect the stunning desert landscape that makes this place so special.
Whether you’re just starting the permitting process or knee-deep in design decisions, this guide will help you understand the key rules—like light reflectivity limits (LRV), non-reflective materials, prohibited plants, and something called NAOS (more on that soon!). Let’s dive in.
The ESLO is Scottsdale’s rulebook for developing land in environmentally sensitive areas—like the foothills—without disrupting the natural beauty. It’s all about balancing your dream home with the desert’s charm. If your property is in the Foothills Overlay, this means your project will have to meet a few extra guidelines. But hey, that’s how we keep the sunsets magical and the saguaros standing tall.
In simple terms, sensitive areas are parts of the land that need extra protection. This could be because they’re home to unique wildlife, have steep slopes, or feature native plants that have been there longer than any of us. If your lot touches one of these areas, your plans might require a few tweaks to keep Mother Nature happy.
Here’s where it gets a bit technical—but stick with me. LRV (Light Reflectivity Value) measures how much light a surface reflects. Why does this matter? In the desert, highly reflective surfaces can create heat islands (not fun) and mess with the natural look of the landscape.
The ESLO sets limits on how "bright" your exterior finishes can be. So, when choosing materials like paint, stucco, or roofing, aim for lower LRV values to keep everything looking natural—and to keep the neighbors (and wildlife) from needing sunglasses.
In Scottsdale's Environmentally Sensitive Lands Ordinance (ESLO), the Light Reflective Value (LRV) of exterior paint colors is regulated to ensure that new developments harmonize with the natural desert environment. Specifically, the ESLO stipulates that no paint colors shall be used that have an LRV greater than 40%.
Speaking of glare, the ESLO also asks that you use non-reflective materials. Think of it like choosing a matte finish instead of something glossy. This applies to windows, railings, roofing, and even decorative features. The goal? No blinding reflections when the Arizona sun does its thing. Plus, it helps your home blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.
Scottsdale loves its native plants, and for good reason—they’re low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and they belong here. The ESLO includes a list of prohibited plants, usually because they’re invasive species or require more water than the natural desert ecosystem can support.
Specifically, citrus trees and palm trees are not allowed in designated areas under the ESLO. While they may be popular in other parts of the Valley, they’re not suitable for the sensitive desert environment of the Foothills Overlay. These species can disrupt the natural habitat, demand excessive water, and clash with the native aesthetic the ordinance aims to preserve.
Stick with native species like saguaro, palo verde, and brittlebush—they’re not only beautiful but also eco-friendly, blending seamlessly with Scottsdale’s unique desert landscape.
Now for the star of the show—NAOS, which stands for Natural Area Open Space. Think of NAOS as the land’s "Do Not Disturb" sign. It’s an area on your property that must remain untouched to preserve the natural environment.
When you submit your plans, the city reviews your lot to figure out which areas should be preserved. These spots often include natural washes, rock outcroppings, or areas with native vegetation. Once designated, NAOS areas are protected—no building, no grading, and no adding a bocce court (sorry!).
Having NAOS on your property might seem restrictive, but it actually adds value by maintaining the natural beauty around your home. Plus, it helps with privacy and keeps the desert landscape thriving.
The ESLO isn’t here to make your life harder—it’s here to protect the natural charm that makes Scottsdale’s foothills so special. By understanding rules like LRV limits, non-reflective materials, plant restrictions, and NAOS designations, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the permitting process without surprises.
At the end of the day, your dream home can coexist beautifully with the natural desert environment—and following the ESLO ensures it does just that.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need help interpreting specific rules, don’t hesitate to reach out. After all, this process is a journey—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
