Tiny Homes: Green Valley vs Marana
How do tiny homes rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Marana, AZ?
Green Valley and Marana have similar restriction levels.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Pima County permits tiny homes as accessory dwelling units under the 2024 Zoning Code update for unincorporated areas. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot serve as permanent dwellings. Site-built or modular tiny homes on foundations must meet IRC building standards and obtain standard building permits through Pima County Development Services.
View full Green Valley rules →Marana, AZ
Pima County
Marana permits tiny homes on foundations that meet minimum dwelling size requirements and building code standards. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are classified as recreational vehicles and may not be used as permanent residences in most residential zones.
View full Marana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Marana |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Required | Yes for permanent dwelling | - |
| THOWs | Classified as RVs, not dwellings | - |
| Building Code | 2018 IRC adopted | - |
| Permits | 520-724-9000 Dev Services | - |
| Septic/Well | ADEQ approval needed | - |
| On Foundation | - | Permitted if meeting building code minimums |
| On Wheels (THOW) | - | Classified as RV; not permanent dwelling |
| Minimum Size | - | Per zoning district requirements |
| ADU Option | - | May qualify under Ordinance 2024.023 |
| HOA | - | Generally prohibited in master-planned |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
Can I live in a tiny home on wheels in Pima County?
No. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles under Arizona law and cannot be used as permanent residences in residential zones. You must place a tiny home on a permanent foundation and obtain building permits to use it as a dwelling.
Do I need a permit for a tiny home in Pima County?
Yes. Any structure intended for habitation requires a building permit from Pima County Development Services. The home must meet IRC building standards, connect to approved utilities, and comply with zoning setback and lot coverage requirements.
What is the minimum size for a tiny home in unincorporated Pima County?
The county follows IRC standards which require at least one habitable room of 120 sq ft minimum. The home must also meet ceiling height, egress, and ventilation requirements under the adopted building code.
Marana FAQ
Can I live in a tiny home in Marana?
Tiny homes on permanent foundations meeting building code minimums can be permitted. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs and cannot be used as permanent residences in most zones.
Can I put a tiny home in my backyard as an ADU?
A tiny home on a foundation may qualify as an ADU under Ordinance 2024.023 if it meets building code and zoning requirements. Contact Development Services for specifics.
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