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Building Setbacks & Zoning in Tucson, AZ (2026)

3 verified building setbacks & zoning rules for Tucson, Arizona, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Setback Rules

Tucson regulates building setbacks through the Unified Development Code, with requirements varying by zoning district. The UDC Table 6.3-2 establishes minimum front, side, and rear setbacks for each zone. Typical residential setbacks in R-1 zones are 20 feet front, 5 feet side, and 20 feet rear. Corner lots and lots with specific overlays may have different requirements.

Tucson Building Setback Requirements

Some Restrictions

Structure Height Limits

Tucson establishes building height limits by zoning district in the Unified Development Code. Residential zones typically allow a maximum height of 28 feet (2 stories). Commercial and mixed-use zones permit greater heights depending on the specific district. Height limits may be further restricted in scenic corridor zones, historic districts, and near Davis-Monthan Air Force Base approach zones.

Tucson Structure Height Limits by Zoning District

Some Restrictions

Lot Coverage Limits

Tucson limits the percentage of a lot that can be covered by buildings and impervious surfaces through the Unified Development Code. Lot coverage maximums vary by zoning district. Typical residential zones (R-1) allow up to 40% building coverage. Impervious surface coverage is also regulated to ensure adequate stormwater retention and comply with the city's water harvesting objectives.

Tucson Lot Coverage & Impervious Surface Limits

Some Restrictions

Looking for Pima County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Tucson city rules.

Building Setbacks & Zoning in Pima County