Can I Build Second Story Addition in Phoenix, AZ? (2026)
Find out if you can build a second story addition in Phoenix, AZ. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Adding a second story in Phoenix, AZ is possible in most zones, subject to height limits and structural permit requirements.
A second story addition is one of the most complex home improvement projects in Phoenix, AZ. It requires a full building permit, structural engineering review, and must comply with the height limits for your zoning district. Unlike a ground-floor addition, a second story changes the roofline and structural load path of your entire home, triggering stricter engineering requirements. In Phoenix, zone height limits range from 30 feet in RE-43 zones — verify your zone before planning.
Second Story Addition Rules in Phoenix
Second Story Addition Rules in Phoenix: Building permit required: Yes — all second story additions require a permit. Permit thresholds: All structural additions. Example height limit (RE-43): 30 feet, max 2 stories. Structural engineering drawings required. Setbacks apply to the full structure height. Phoenix PDD permit required. Energy code compliance required. Lot coverage and setback standards must be met.
Costs & Fees
Second story addition permit fees in Phoenix: Based on value — typically $1,200–$5,000. Note: structural engineering fees ($2,000–$10,000+) are separate from permit fees.
Timeline
Plan check: 3-6 weeks. Construction typically 3-6 months for a full second story.
Next Steps
Next steps for adding a second story in Phoenix: 1. Hire a structural engineer to assess your existing foundation and framing capacity. 2. Confirm your zone height limit and verify the addition meets all setback requirements. 3. Submit full structural plans and permit application to the Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD). 4. Inspections required at foundation reinforcement, framing, shear panels, and final.
Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD)
Phone: (602) 262-7811 · Verified July 6, 2026 · Source
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/pdd
Online Permits: https://www.phoenix.gov/pdd
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Phoenix property?
Yes. Arizona HB 2297 (effective September 2024) requires Phoenix to allow ADUs on single-family lots and removed the previous owner-occupancy requirement. Phoenix updated its local ordinance to comply. ADUs can be up to 50% of your primary dwelling floor area or 1,200 sqft (whichever is less). No additional parking is required. Side and rear setbacks cannot exceed 5 feet per state law.
What are the short-term rental rules in Phoenix?
Phoenix requires STR registration ($250/year). Arizona SB 1350 (2016) originally preempted cities from banning STRs outright, but SB 1168 (2022) gave cities back some regulatory authority including the ability to require registration, impose safety requirements, and penalize nuisance properties. Maximum occupancy is 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests. A local contact person must be designated.
Does Phoenix have a solar mandate?
No, Phoenix does not have a solar mandate for new construction. However, Arizona's strong HOA solar protection law (ARS 33-1816) means your HOA cannot prohibit solar installations. Phoenix receives approximately 299 sunny days per year, making it one of the best solar markets in the US. Building permits are required for all solar installations.
What zoning district is my Phoenix property in?
You can look up your Phoenix zoning at the Phoenix Planning and Development Department website at phoenix.gov/pdd. Most established single-family neighborhoods are zoned R1-6, R1-8, or R1-10. RE-24 and RE-43 are large-lot estate zones. R-2 through R-5 are progressively denser multifamily zones.
Are Saguaro cacti protected in Phoenix?
Yes. Saguaro cacti are protected under Arizona law. You cannot remove, destroy, or relocate a Saguaro cactus without first obtaining a permit from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Violating this law can result in significant fines. If a Saguaro must be removed for construction, it must be relocated by a licensed cactus moving company with a valid permit.
Source: Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD) — Building Regulations. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source