Shed permit rules in Pima County, AZ — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Pima County allows storage sheds as accessory structures in all residential zones. Sheds under 200 square feet and not on a permanent foundation typically do not require a building permit. Larger sheds require permits and must meet setback requirements. All sheds must comply with wind and tie-down requirements for the Sonoran Desert climate.
Pima County Development Services regulates accessory structures including storage sheds in unincorporated areas. Prefabricated or site-built sheds under 200 square feet that are not on a permanent foundation and do not contain electrical or plumbing connections are generally exempt from building permit requirements. Sheds 200 square feet or larger, or those with electrical/plumbing, require a building permit and must meet International Residential Code standards as adopted by Pima County. Setback requirements for sheds: typically 5 feet from side and rear property lines, with increased setbacks from front property lines consistent with the zoning district's front-yard setback. Metal sheds must be anchored to resist Sonoran Desert wind gusts (monsoon microbursts can produce winds exceeding 70 mph). Sheds must not be placed in drainage easements or floodways. In Saguaro National Park buffer zones, shed placement may be subject to additional scenic corridor review under the county comprehensive plan.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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See how Pima County's shed rules rules stack up against other locations.
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