Tiny Homes: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do tiny homes rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) under Zoning Ordinance Section 706, which can function as tiny homes. Up to 2 ADUs are permitted per single-family lot (one attached, one detached). ADUs are capped at 75% of the primary dwelling's floor area, with a 1,000 sq ft maximum on lots up to 10,000 sq ft. HOAs may impose additional restrictions.
View full Phoenix 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 | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Zoning Section | Phoenix Zoning Ordinance §706 | - |
| Max ADUs | 2 per lot (1 attached + 1 detached) | - |
| Size Limit (≤10k sq ft lot) | 1,000 sq ft max | - |
| Size Limit (>10k sq ft lot) | Lesser of 3,000 sq ft or 10% of lot | - |
| Height (in setback) | 15 ft max for detached ADU | - |
| 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.
Phoenix FAQ
Can I put a tiny home on my property in Phoenix?
Yes, through the ADU ordinance. Detached ADUs up to 1,000 sq ft (on lots up to 10,000 sq ft) are permitted on single-family lots. They must comply with all building codes, setback requirements, and design guidelines.
Do HOAs affect tiny home/ADU construction?
Yes. Arizona state law mandates that municipalities allow ADUs, but it does not override private HOA covenants. Your HOA may have rules that restrict or prohibit ADU construction even if zoning permits it.
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
See how Phoenix and Tempe compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool