ADU Rules: Green Valley vs Sahuarita
How do adu rules rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Sahuarita, AZ?
Green Valley and Sahuarita have similar restriction levels.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Pima County allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs or guest houses) in certain residential zones subject to zoning code requirements. ADUs must be subordinate to the primary dwelling, meet setback and height limits, and comply with building code. ADUs built after September 14, 2024 and used as STRs require owner occupancy on the property.
View full Green Valley rules →Sahuarita, AZ
Pima County
Sahuarita allows accessory dwelling units (guest houses, casitas) in certain residential zones subject to lot size requirements, setbacks, and zoning conditions. ADUs are common in the southwestern architectural tradition and may require building permits.
View full Sahuarita rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Sahuarita |
|---|---|---|
| Zones | CR-3, CR-5, SR, SH, GR-1 | - |
| Size Limit | Typically 50% of primary dwelling | - |
| Building Permit | Required from Development Services | - |
| STR Rule | Post-Sep 2024 ADUs: owner must reside on property | - |
| Parking | 1 additional off-street space | Additional off-street space may be required |
| Permitted Zones | - | Certain residential zones with minimum lot size |
| Maximum Size | - | Typically 800-1,000 sq ft or percentage of primary |
| Kitchen | - | May be restricted to avoid separate dwelling classification |
| HOA | - | May restrict or require architectural review |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
Can I build a guest house on my property?
Yes, in most residential zones on larger lots (CR-3 and above). The ADU must be subordinate to the primary dwelling, meet setback requirements, and have a building permit from Pima County Development Services.
Can I rent my ADU as a short-term rental?
ADUs with certificates of occupancy issued after September 14, 2024 may only be used as STRs if the property owner lives on the property. ADUs built before that date are not subject to this restriction.
Sahuarita FAQ
Can I build a casita in my Sahuarita backyard?
Possibly, depending on your lot size and zoning district. ADUs require building permits and must meet setback, size, and design requirements. If you are in an HOA, check CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Can I rent out my ADU on Airbnb?
Yes. Under ARS 9-500.39, Arizona preempts local STR bans. An ADU can be used as a short-term rental subject to the same registration, tax, and nuisance requirements as any rental property.
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