Tiny Homes: Mesa vs Tempe
How do tiny homes rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Mesa and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa permits accessory dwelling units up to 1,200 sq ft or 75% of the primary dwelling in single-residence districts under Ordinance 5883. Tiny homes on wheels are treated as RVs and cannot serve as permanent residences.
View full Mesa 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 | Mesa | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Max ADU Size | 1,200 sq ft or 75% of home | - |
| Zoning | By right in all SF districts | - |
| THOWs | Classified as RVs | - |
| Code Reference | Ordinance 5883 | - |
| On Foundation | - | Permitted as ADU, must meet IRC standards |
| On Wheels | - | Classified as RV, no permanent residence allowed |
| 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.
Mesa FAQ
Can I build a tiny home in Mesa?
Tiny homes on permanent foundations can qualify as ADUs in Mesa, up to 1,200 sq ft or 75% of the primary home. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs.
How big can an ADU be in Mesa?
Mesa allows ADUs up to 75% of the primary dwelling's floor area or 1,200 square feet, whichever is less. This was increased from the previous 30% limit under Ordinance 5883.
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.
Compare other topics
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