Sahuarita, AZ Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)

The Sahuarita zoning code establishes maximum building heights that vary by zone classification but follow a consistent framework across residential districts. In standard suburban residential zones including SR and MR, the maximum height for primary single-family dwellings is 30 feet measured from natural or finished grade at the building perimeter to the highest point of the roof, or two stories, whichever is more restrictive. This effectively prevents three-story construction in residential areas without a variance or rezoning, which the Town is unlikely to grant in established neighborhoods. Rural zones including Conservation Ranch (CR) and General Rural (GR-1) maintain the same 30-foot residential height cap, as the rural character intent focuses on lot size and setback spacing rather than building height differentiation. Accessory dwelling units receive tiered height treatment based on their placement relative to the primary dwelling. Under Table 18.12-5, an ADU built entirely within the same setback envelope as the main house may match the primary structure height of up to 30 feet. However, an ADU that extends past the main house setback line but still meets the reduced ADU-specific setback requirement is limited to a maximum height of 16 feet, ensuring that accessory structures closer to neighboring properties maintain a lower profile that minimizes shadow and visual impact on adjacent lots. Ancillary agricultural structures in rural zones face their own height restrictions. A structure built to house poultry or small animals is capped at a maximum area of 200 square feet with a maximum height of 8 feet, and on lots smaller than one acre the structure must be shorter than the existing fence line of the property to maintain neighborhood aesthetics. Farm product stands permitted in rural residential zones are limited to single-story construction consistent with their temporary and accessory nature. Height is measured from the natural or finished grade at the building perimeter, whichever produces the greater measurement, to the highest point of the roof structure. Chapter 18.07 provides general regulation exceptions allowing certain architectural and mechanical features to project above the height limit by specified amounts, including chimneys, antenna masts, elevator shafts, and rooftop mechanical equipment with required screening. These projections are typically limited to a few feet above the roof line and must not create a habitable floor area above the height limit. Master-planned communities including Rancho Sahuarita may impose height limits more restrictive than the base zoning through their specific plan documents and architectural review guidelines, which are enforced by the HOA design review committee.