Building Setbacks & Zoning in Maricopa County, AZ (2026)

3 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 9 cities in Maricopa County, Arizona.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Maricopa County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Setback Rules

Building setbacks in unincorporated Maricopa County vary by zoning district. The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO) establishes minimum front, side, and rear setbacks for each district. Rural zones have larger setbacks than suburban residential zones. The updated 2026 MCZO maintains district-specific setback tables. Accessory structures must be at least 3 feet from side and rear lot lines.

Building Setbacks: Setback Rules

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Structure Height Limits

Maximum building height in unincorporated Maricopa County is established by zoning district in the MCZO. All buildings in rural and single-family residential zones may observe a maximum height of 30 feet. ADUs encroaching into setbacks are limited to 18 feet (1 story) under the updated 2026 zoning ordinance. Height exceptions may apply for agricultural structures in rural zones.

Building Setbacks: Structure Height Limits

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Lot Coverage Limits

Maximum lot coverage in unincorporated Maricopa County is determined by the zoning district. The MCZO establishes maximum building coverage percentages for each district. Accessory structures cannot occupy more than 30% of any required yard. Rural districts have lower coverage maximums than suburban residential districts.