Accessory Structures in Tempe, AZ (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Tempe, Arizona, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Tempe permits Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in residential zones following a 2022 ordinance update. ADUs can be detached, attached, or converted from existing structures. They must meet size, setback, and design standards but do not require additional parking.
Tempe Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Tempe permits accessory dwelling units by right on lots zoned for single-family use under Arizona Revised Statutes section 9-461.18, enacted by HB 2720 in 2024. Tempe (population approximately 185,000) is well over the 75,000 threshold that triggers the state by-right mandate. Tempe's Zoning and Development Code was amended to comply, allowing at least one attached and one detached ADU per single-family lot. Building permits issue through Tempe Community Development.
Tempe ADU Permits Under HB 2720
Few RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Tempe does not impose a dedicated ADU impact fee. Standard building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical permit fees through Tempe Community Development apply based on construction valuation. Water and sewer development fees apply only when a new utility connection is installed. Arizona HB 2720 (ARS 9-461.18) limits fees that would effectively prohibit ADU construction.
Tempe ADU Impact Fees
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Tempe does not require owner occupancy for ADUs. Arizona HB 2720 (ARS 9-461.18) prohibits cities over 75,000 population from conditioning ADU permits or use on owner occupancy. Both the primary residence and the ADU may be rented to separate tenants. HOA CC&Rs in Tempe's smaller HOA communities (The Lakes, Warner Ranch, Circle G Ranches) may still impose occupancy restrictions subject to ARS 33-1817.
Tempe ADU Owner Occupancy
Few RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Tempe permits long-term ADU rentals without a city license. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) require an Arizona Department of Revenue transaction privilege tax license and a Tempe Short-Term Rental permit under City Code regulations adopted consistent with ARS 9-500.39. HB 2720 prohibits ADU-specific rental bans. ASU-area demand makes rentals common but Tempe enforces strict STR registration, local-contact, and notice rules.
Tempe ADU Rental Restrictions
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Tempe allows sheds and other accessory structures in residential zones. Small sheds under 200 square feet typically do not require a building permit but must comply with setback and height requirements under the zoning code.
Tempe Shed & Accessory Structure Rules
Few RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions in Tempe require a building permit and must comply with zoning standards including parking requirements. Converting a garage to living space may require providing replacement off-street parking.
Tempe Garage Conversion Regulations
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports in Tempe are regulated under the Zoning and Development Code and building code (Chapter 8). A building permit is required for carport construction. Carports must comply with setback requirements of the applicable zoning district. Accessory structures like ramadas and small sheds are limited to 200 square feet and 8 feet in height before being classified as accessory buildings subject to additional standards.
Tempe Carport Regulations
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes on permanent foundations may be permitted in Tempe as ADUs under the city's Zoning and Development Code. Tempe allows both attached and detached ADUs on single-family lots. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot serve as permanent residences. Arizona HB 2720 (2024) expanded ADU rights statewide, and Tempe updated its ADU ordinance accordingly.
Tempe Tiny Home Regulations
Some RestrictionsLooking for Maricopa County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Tempe city rules.
Accessory Structures in Maricopa County →