Structure Height Limits: Glendale vs Mesa
How do structure height limits rules compare between Glendale, AZ and Mesa, AZ?
Glendale and Mesa have similar restriction levels.
Glendale, AZ
Maricopa County
Glendale regulates building heights through the Unified Development Code based on zoning district. Residential zones (R1) typically allow structures up to 30 feet or two stories. Commercial zones allow greater heights depending on the district. Structures near Luke Air Force Base are subject to additional height restrictions related to aircraft safety zones and the Airport Overflight Area.
View full Glendale rules →Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa's Zoning Ordinance establishes maximum building heights by zoning district. Single-family residential zones generally limit structures to 25-30 feet or two stories. Multi-family and commercial zones allow greater heights, often up to 40-75 feet depending on the district. Areas near Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport or Falcon Field Airport may have additional height restrictions based on FAA airspace surfaces and the city's Airport Overlay District.
View full Mesa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Glendale | Mesa |
|---|---|---|
| Residential (R1) | 30 feet / 2 stories maximum | - |
| Commercial | Varies by district — up to 75+ feet | 40-75 feet depending on district |
| Luke AFB Zone | Additional height restrictions apply | - |
| Exceptions | Chimneys, antennas may exceed by limited amount | - |
| Measurement | From finished grade to highest point | - |
| Code Section | - | Mesa Zoning Ordinance Title 11 |
| Residential (RS) | - | 25-30 feet or 2 stories typical |
| Multi-Family | - | 40-60 feet depending on district |
| Airport Overlay | - | Additional FAA height restrictions may apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Glendale FAQ
How tall can I build in a Glendale residential zone?
Standard residential zones allow buildings up to 30 feet or two stories, whichever is less. Some architectural features like chimneys may exceed this by a limited amount. Check your specific zoning district for exact limits.
Are there extra height restrictions near Luke Air Force Base?
Yes. Properties in the Luke AFB Airport Overflight Area or flight path zones may have additional height restrictions for aircraft safety. Contact Glendale Planning to determine if your property is affected.
Mesa FAQ
How tall can I build in Mesa?
It depends on your zoning district. Single-family residential zones typically allow 25-30 feet. Multi-family and commercial zones allow greater heights. Properties near airports may have additional FAA-related height restrictions. Check with Mesa Development Services for your specific property.
Do Mesa airport zones affect building height?
Yes. Properties near Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport or Falcon Field Airport may fall within Airport Overlay Districts that impose height limits based on FAA approach surfaces. These restrictions can be more limiting than the underlying zoning district's height allowance.
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