ADU rules in Tempe, AZ — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Tempe permits Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in residential zones following a 2022 ordinance update. ADUs can be detached, attached, or converted from existing structures. They must meet size, setback, and design standards but do not require additional parking.
Tempe adopted ADU regulations allowing one ADU per single-family lot. ADUs may be up to 75% of the primary dwelling's living area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less. They must be at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines. ADUs must match the primary dwelling in architectural style and materials. No additional parking is required. Owner occupancy of either the primary dwelling or ADU may be required. ADUs cannot be used as short-term rentals under 30 days.
Building an ADU without permits may result in stop-work orders and fines. Non-compliant ADUs must be brought into compliance or removed. Using an ADU as an STR in violation of the rules may result in penalties.
Tempe, AZ
Tempe regulates industrial noise through Chapter 20 (Noise) of the City Code and the Zoning and Development Code. Industrial uses must not generate noise exc...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance (Chapter 20) and animal control regulations. Dogs that bark persistently and disturb neighbors ca...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe requires vehicles to park on approved hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt driveways. Parking on dirt, gravel, or landscaped areas is prohibited. ...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe generally does not require a building permit for standard residential fences up to 6 feet in height. Fences exceeding 6 feet, masonry walls, and fences...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's Zoning and Development Code regulates fence materials in residential zones. Common permitted materials include block, stucco, wrought iron, wood, vin...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's zoning code limits residential fence heights to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3 feet in front yards. Corner lots may have additional visibility t...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle adu rules.
See how Tempe's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.