Phoenix Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Phoenix, AZ. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
1,608,139
Total Zone Types
26
Planning Department
Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD)
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Maricopa County
Metro Area
Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler
Phoenix Zoning System
The Phoenix zoning system includes 26 total zone classifications: 9 residential zones (RE-43, RE-24, R1-10, R1-8, R1-6, and others) and 4 commercial zones (C-1, C-2, C-3, C-O), as well as 1 mixed-use zone (PUD) and 2 industrial zones (A-1, A-2). Phoenix's zoning is governed by the Phoenix Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 6 of the City Code), administered by the Planning and Development Department (PDD). The city uses a conventional Euclidean zoning framework with residential, commercial, office, and industrial districts. Phoenix updated its ADU ordinance in 2024 to comply with Arizona House Bill 2297 (HB 2297), which provided partial state preemption removing owner-occupancy requirements and setting limits on minimum lot size and setback requirements for ADUs. The Phoenix metro area is known for a suburban development pattern with large lot sizes in established neighborhoods and more dense infill development in central Phoenix and Scottsdale-adjacent areas. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Phoenix Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Phoenix Building Department (Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD)) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (602) 262-7811 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD) at (602) 262-7811. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
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 using the interactive zoning map at phoenix.gov/pdd/zoning. 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 Zoning Ordinance Section 606 — Accessory Dwelling Units; Arizona HB 2297 (Laws 2024, Chapter 204). Last verified April 5, 2026. View source