Marana's Accessory Structures: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles accessory structures a little differently. In Marana, Arizona, there are 5 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Shed Rules

Marana allows residential storage sheds subject to Land Development Code setback and size requirements. Sheds under 200 square feet are generally exempt from building permits but must comply with setbacks and height limits. HOA approval required in most communities.

Key details: Permit Exempt: Under 200 sq ft, single story. Setbacks: Must comply with zoning district. Front Yard: Not permitted. Electrical: Separate permit required. HOA: Architectural approval needed.

Shed built in violation of setbacks: code enforcement notice and potential removal. Unpermitted electrical: code enforcement and required permit.

Tiny Homes

Marana permits tiny homes on foundations that meet minimum dwelling size requirements and building code standards. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are classified as recreational vehicles and may not be used as permanent residences in most residential zones.

Key details: On Foundation: Permitted if meeting building code minimums. On Wheels (THOW): Classified as RV; not permanent dwelling. Minimum Size: Per zoning district requirements. ADU Option: May qualify under Ordinance 2024.023. HOA: Generally prohibited in master-planned.

Occupying an unpermitted dwelling: code enforcement action. Using a THOW as a permanent residence in a non-permitted zone: zoning violation.

Carport Rules

Marana requires building permits for carport construction. Carports must comply with Land Development Code setback, height, and lot coverage requirements. HOAs in master-planned communities may restrict or prohibit freestanding carports.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes, building permit. Setbacks: Per zoning district. Lot Coverage: Counts toward maximum. Wind Load: Engineering may be required. HOA: May restrict or prohibit.

Unpermitted carport: stop-work order, fine, and requirement to obtain permit. HOA non-compliance: CC&R enforcement.

Garage Conversions

Garage conversions in Marana require a building permit and must comply with the Land Development Code parking requirements. Converting a garage to living space may trigger the need to provide replacement off-street parking to maintain the minimum required for the residence.

Key details: Building Permit: Required for all garage conversions. Parking Requirement: Must maintain 2 off-street spaces. Building Code: IRC standards for habitable rooms. HOA Approval: May be required in master-planned communities.

Unpermitted conversion: building code violation with stop-work order and correction notice. Failure to maintain minimum parking: zoning violation and civil penalties. Occupancy of unpermitted converted space: enforcement action and potential condemnation.

ADU Rules

Marana adopted ADU regulations under HB 2720 (LDC §17-6-14). State law applies: max ADU size 75% of primary dwelling or 1,000 sq ft; side/rear setback minimum 5 feet; no parking required. ADUs on lots with new ADUs (post Sep 14, 2024) used as STRs require owner-occupancy.

Key details: Max Size: 75% of primary or 1,000 sq ft. Setback: 5 feet side/rear minimum. Parking: Not required. STR + ADU: Owner-occupancy required (post Sep 14, 2024). Code Section: Marana LDC §17-6-14.

Unpermitted ADUs face stop-work orders and removal or legalization requirements. Fines of $500–$2,000 apply for unpermitted construction. Properties with illegal ADUs may face title issues at sale.

The Bottom Line

Marana's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Marana is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Marana's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.