Shed Rules: Oro Valley vs Tucson
How do shed rules rules compare between Oro Valley, AZ and Tucson, AZ?
Oro Valley and Tucson have similar restriction levels.
Oro Valley, AZ
Pima County
Sheds under 200 sq ft are typically permit-exempt but must meet 5-foot setbacks. Max height 15 feet. Must match the architectural character of the primary dwelling.
View full Oro Valley rules →Tucson, AZ
Pima County
Tucson Unified Development Code (UDC) Section 6.6.2 governs detached residential accessory buildings such as sheds. Detached accessory structures, except accessory dwelling units, may not exceed 12 feet in height. The total gross floor area of all accessory structures may not exceed 50% of the principal structure's gross floor area. A building permit through Planning and Development Services (PDSD) is required for sheds beyond the small unconditioned-storage exemption, and Tucson IRC adoption applies to construction.
View full Tucson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oro Valley | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Threshold | Over 200 sq ft requires permit | - |
| Setbacks | Typically 5 ft from side/rear lines | - |
| Max Height | 15 ft or 1 story | - |
| Design | Must match primary dwelling character | - |
| Code Section | - | Tucson UDC Sec. 6.6.2 |
| Height Limit (detached) | - | 12 ft (except ADUs) |
| Cumulative Floor Area | - | Up to 50% of principal structure GFA |
| Building Code | - | IRC as adopted by City of Tucson |
| Permit Authority | - | Tucson Planning & Development Services (PDSD) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oro Valley FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small shed in Oro Valley?
Sheds under 200 square feet are typically exempt from building permits but must still comply with setback requirements. Structures over 200 square feet require a building permit.
Can I put a shipping container in my backyard as a storage shed?
No. Metal shipping containers are not permitted as accessory structures in residential zones in Oro Valley. Sheds must be architecturally compatible with the primary dwelling.
How far from the property line can I place a shed?
Standard residential zones typically require a minimum 5-foot setback from side and rear property lines. Your specific zoning district may have different requirements.
Tucson FAQ
How tall can a shed be in Tucson?
UDC Section 6.6.2 limits detached accessory buildings and structures, except accessory dwelling units, to 12 feet in height. If a shed is attached to the principal structure, it may match the principal structure's allowed height for the zoning district.
Do I need a permit for a shed in Tucson?
Under the IRC as adopted by Tucson, one-story detached storage sheds at or below 200 square feet typically do not require a building permit, but they must still meet UDC Section 6.6.2 height limits, the 50% combined floor area cap, and the setback and lot-coverage rules of your zoning district. Larger sheds, sheds with electrical or plumbing, or sheds on a permanent foundation require a permit from Planning and Development Services.
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