ADU Permits: Chandler vs Gilbert
How do adu permits rules compare between Chandler, AZ and Gilbert, AZ?
Chandler has fewer restrictions than Gilbert.
Chandler, AZ
Maricopa County
Chandler permits accessory dwelling units by-right under Arizona Revised Statutes section 9-461.18, enacted by HB 2720 in 2024 and effective for cities over 75,000 population on or before January 1, 2025. Chandler's Land Use and Zoning Code (City Code Chapter 35) was amended in late 2024 to comply. Single-family lots may have one detached and one attached ADU; lots over one acre may add a third detached ADU.
View full Chandler rules →Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Gilbert processes ADU permits through Development Services. Arizona HB 2720 (signed May 2024, effective January 1, 2025) preempts most local ADU restrictions in cities over 75,000 residents and codifies ADU rules at ARS 9-461.18. Gilbert (population over 280,000) must allow at least one attached and one detached ADU per single-family lot by right.
View full Gilbert rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chandler | Gilbert |
|---|---|---|
| State Mandate | Ariz. Rev. Stat. 9-461.18 (HB 2720) | - |
| City Code | Chandler Code Chapter 35 (amended 2024) | Gilbert LDC Chapter 5 |
| Units Allowed | 1 detached + 1 attached (3 if 1+ acre) | - |
| Permit Authority | Chandler Development Services | - |
| Building Code | 2024 IRC / IFGC as adopted | - |
| By-Right Standard | Yes on single-family lots | - |
| State Law | - | ARS §9-461.18 (HB 2720) |
| Review Type | - | By right (no Use Permit) |
| Max Side/Rear Setback | - | 5 ft |
| Review Time | - | 10-20 business days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chandler FAQ
Can I build an ADU in Chandler by-right?
Yes. Under Arizona HB 2720 (Ariz. Rev. Stat. 9-461.18), Chandler must allow one detached and one attached ADU by-right on every single-family lot. Lots over one acre may add a third detached unit. Building, plumbing, and electrical permits through Chandler Development Services are still required.
How long does ADU permitting take in Chandler?
Plan review for a standard residential ADU runs approximately two to six weeks at Chandler Development Services, depending on plan completeness and current workload. Construction inspections occur at standard milestones before final certificate of occupancy is issued.
Gilbert FAQ
Do I need a Use Permit for a Gilbert casita?
No, not since January 1, 2025. ARS 9-461.18 (HB 2720) preempted Gilbert's prior Use Permit requirement. ADUs are now a permitted use by right on single-family lots, though you still need building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits through Development Services.
How many ADUs can I have on my Gilbert lot?
At least one attached and one detached ADU on any single-family lot. Lots one acre or larger qualify for a third detached ADU if one of the units is designated as a restricted-affordable dwelling unit under ARS 9-461.18.
Compare other topics
See how Chandler and Gilbert compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool