Tiny Homes: Goodyear vs Tempe
How do tiny homes rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Goodyear and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
Goodyear adopted ADU regulations aligned with Arizona HB 2720, which permits accessory dwelling units on single-family lots. Tiny homes on permanent foundations qualify as ADUs. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot serve as permanent dwellings. Properties near Phoenix Goodyear Airport (GYR) and Luke AFB may have additional restrictions.
View full Goodyear rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
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.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| On Foundation | Permitted as ADU under HB 2720 | Permitted as ADU, must meet IRC standards |
| On Wheels | RV classification, no permanent dwelling | Classified as RV, no permanent residence allowed |
| ADU Limit | 1 attached + 1 detached per lot | - |
| HOA Override | HOAs can prohibit ADUs | - |
| Contact | (623) 932-3200 Development Services | - |
| ADUs Allowed | - | 1 attached + 1 detached per single-family lot |
| Height | - | Regulated by zoning district standards |
| State Law | - | AZ HB 2720 expanded ADU rights |
| Popular Use | - | Student housing near ASU, multigenerational living |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Goodyear FAQ
Can I build a tiny home in Goodyear?
Yes, if it is on a permanent foundation. Under Arizona HB 2720, Goodyear allows ADUs on single-family lots. The unit must meet building code standards and requires a building permit from Development Services at (623) 932-3200. Check with your HOA first.
Can I live in a tiny home on wheels in Goodyear?
No. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot be used as permanent residences. They are subject to RV parking regulations and must be stored according to zoning requirements.
Can my HOA block me from building a tiny home ADU in Goodyear?
Yes. Goodyear's planning officials have confirmed that HOAs can prohibit ADUs even where city zoning allows them. Contact your HOA before investing in plans or permits.
Tempe FAQ
Can I put a tiny house on my property in Tempe?
Foundation-based tiny homes may qualify as ADUs. Tempe allows one attached and one detached ADU per single-family lot. Tiny homes on wheels cannot be permanent residences.
How does Tempe's ADU ordinance work?
Tempe allows one attached and one detached ADU on single-family lots. Height and setbacks follow zoning district standards. A building permit is required.
Is there minimum square footage for an ADU in Tempe?
ADUs must meet International Residential Code minimums for habitable rooms. Contact Community Development for current specific size requirements.
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