Phoenix, AZ Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
Shed permit rules in Phoenix, AZ, also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations, set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Key Facts
- Permit-exempt size
- 200 sq ft or less, one story
- Side/rear setback
- 3 ft minimum
- Front yard
- Not permitted (use permit required between dwelling and front line)
- Max height
- 8 ft within 5 ft of street side; 15 ft elsewhere in yard
- Code Section
- PBCC 105.2.1(1); Zoning Ordinance 706.B
Summary
In Phoenix, one-story detached tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses do not require a building permit if their aggregate floor area does not exceed 200 square feet, per Phoenix Building Construction Code Section 105.2.1. Sheds must still meet zoning setbacks of at least 3 feet from a side or rear property line under Zoning Ordinance Section 706.B.
Section 105.2.1 Building. Permits shall not be required for the following: 1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the aggregate floor area does not exceed 200 square feet (18.58 square meters). Commentary: Additional similar uses include, but are not limited to, ramadas and gazebos. If utilities are provided to a detached accessory structure exempt from permit, a permit is required for the installation of the utilities.
Full Breakdown
1, Item 1: a one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool/storage shed, playhouse or similar use is permit-exempt if its aggregate floor area is 200 square feet or less (ramadas and gazebos are treated similarly). B, an accessory structure on a single-family lot is not permitted in the required front yard, must maintain a minimum 3-foot setback from a side or rear property line (no setback required adjacent to a fully dedicated alley), and is limited to 8 feet in height when within 5 feet of a street side property line or 15 feet elsewhere in the required side or rear yard.
If utilities are run to an exempt shed, a separate permit for the utilities is required. Sheds over 200 sq ft, or structures with electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work, require a building permit.
Violations & Fines
Erecting a shed that exceeds the 200 sq ft permit-exemption without a permit, or that violates zoning setbacks/height limits, is a code violation. The Planning and Development Department may require a permit be obtained or the structure relocated or removed; continued non-compliance is enforced through notices of violation and civil penalties under the Phoenix City Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a shed in Phoenix?
How far from the property line must a shed be?
How tall can my shed be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
How Phoenix compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·Compare Phoenix to another location·View the Arizona accessory structures overview
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Shed & Carport Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle shed & carport rules.