Pima County, AZ Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Pima County Development Services requires a building permit for any garage conversion to habitable living space in unincorporated areas. The conversion must comply with the International Residential Code as adopted by Pima County, including minimum ceiling height of 7 feet, adequate natural ventilation and lighting, emergency egress windows meeting code dimensions, insulation meeting energy code requirements (important in the Tucson climate with summer highs exceeding 110 degrees F), and proper HVAC connections. The garage door opening must be closed with a code-compliant wall section including appropriate insulation and finishing. Electrical systems must be updated to support habitable-space requirements (outlets every 12 feet, GFCI in wet areas). Pima County zoning code typically requires 2 off-street parking spaces per dwelling unit; converting a 2-car garage may require demonstrating alternative covered or paved parking to meet the minimum. Properties in HOA-governed communities may face additional restrictions on garage conversions. A final inspection by Development Services is required before occupancy of the converted space.