Frequently Asked Questions

These are questions that have arisen in the past and they may be helpful for you. New categories can be added as needed. Questions about Tucson's history or the process of historic research are particularly welcome. A blog post, article or entry on this page may result from your question. 

This Site Questions

A page doesn't seem to work properly. Why does that happen? 

Collecting a large amount of information about a wide variety of subjects is difficult to organize perfectly. If you find a feature of the site that doesn't work as you expect or is broken, please let me know at historictucson@gmail.com. 

Is artificial intelligence reliable for researching and writing historic articles? 

All sources of historic information must be viewed with a skeptical eye. Original sources often are shaped by the historian's agenda or culture. Some information is broadly believed to be true but is not. Any researcher, AI or human, is subject to using incorrect information. Readers should take a critical view of all histories. If you believe something on this site is incorrect, please let me know at historictucson@gmail.com. 

Why do some pages load slower, especially those with pictures or documents in Google Drive? 

Some pages load data stored in Google Drive and that information takes more time to load. Pages with all information already in that page are quicker. Pages expected to change rarely are often done this way. Keeping information that is likely to change or be added to is much easier to manage and keep current on Google Drive. Additional information is added frequently and editing each web page is much slower and more workload. 

Historic Preservation and the Review Process Questions

How long does a review take? 

It typically takes 2-3 months to process a Full HPZ Review or if there are no unusual issues or complications. The total review time for accepted applications is not to exceed 60 working days for a Full Review and 45 working days for a Minor Review. 

What does a review cost? 

PDSD staff calculates the fee. The fee will vary by the type of review process. Fee amount includes staff review fee and archive fee. More detailed fee information can be found in Section 4 of the Tucson Administrative Manual, paragraph 4-01.18.0, SPECIAL DISTRICT REVIEW FEES. Here is the link: 

https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/tucson/latest/tucson_az_udc/0-0-0-10182

Is there more than one kind of review? 

• A Full HPZ Review is required for the grading or erection of a new structure, construction or enlargement of a parking lot, and any alteration involving the modification, addition, or moving of any part of the existing structure (including signs) that would affect the exterior appearance. 

• A Minor HPZ Review is for small exterior projects such as electrical box repairs/upgrades, solar panels, walls, fences, gates, windows, or door repair/restoration work. The review is conducted on-site with the applicant present. 

• An informal Review is an opportunity for the proponent of a potential project to learn more about the considerations needed for project approval before spending money and time in ways that might not be approved. The board learns about the project and the proponent learns about board thinking and how it is likely to apply historic preservation standards. The board can only take a definitive position as part of a Full or Minor HPZ Review. There is no fee for a Courtesy Review. 

What is a development zone? 

The development zone is the area closely adjacent to the subject property. The definition and graphic examples can be found at this link: 

https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/tucson/latest/tucson_az_udc/0-0-0-7663#JD_UDCSec.11.4.5

Search for Development Zone or scroll down until you see it. The term is also addressed in the Detailed Information document on this site. 

What is a contributing structure and why does it matter? 

A contributing structure is one retaining its historic character from the period of significance for Armory Park (1860s to 1945). These structures are the basis for the historic designation of the Armory Park District and HPZ. The board will not approve anything threatening the contributing status of a property. 

Is a non-contributing structure treated differently? 

Yes, but major alterations still require review to insure that the property is compatible in appearance with surrounding contributing structures. 

My new house is on a major avenue; can I put in a driveway and garage? 

Since garages and driveways were not common features of most Armory Park properties, they should not be a conspicuous feature of the new house's front. Rear or side garages may be acceptable. In rare cases, a front accessed garage may be considered if it is set back from the principal structure's façade. 

Are projects on minor avenues (named alleys) treated differently than those facing major avenues? 

This is a complicated area. Some properties front on a major avenue with the rear of the lot facing a minor avenue. For these properties, emphasis is on the front side. Other properties front on a minor avenue and that becomes the area of emphasis. In any case, changes will need to be consistent with the other nearby properties (see development zone).