Rule 320. Placement Preferences

(a) Generally. A child should be placed in the least restrictive placement available, consistent with the best interests of the child. See A.R.S. § 8-514. (b) Placement Preferences. Subject to section (a), placement preferences, in descending order, are as follows: (1) with a parent; (2) with a grandparent; (3) in kinship care with another member of the child's extended family, including a person who has a significant relationship with the child. A foster parent or kinship caregiver with whom a child under 3 years of age has resided for at least 9 months is presumed to be a person who has a significant relationship with the child; (4) in licensed family foster care; (5) in therapeutic foster care; (6) in a group home; or (7) in a residential treatment facility. (c) Child with Developmental Disabilities. In determining the child's placement, consideration should be given to the child's developmental disabilities. See A.R.S. § 8-514.01. (d) Indian Child. Rule 321 governs placement preferences for an Indian child.