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.
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.
Phoenix exempts small sheds from building permits under the Phoenix Building Construction Code (PBCC), Administrative Provisions, Section 105.2.1, 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). The exemption does not waive zoning compliance: under Zoning Ordinance Section 706.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.
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.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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