4 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Maricopa County, Arizona.
Verified from official government sources
In unincorporated Maricopa County, accessory structures under 200 square feet with no electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems are exempt from building permits. Larger sheds require a building permit. All sheds must comply with zoning setbacks and lot coverage limits.
All fencing over 1 foot in height requires review in unincorporated Maricopa County. Simple fences need a zoning clearance (A-fence). Pool barriers, fences over 8 feet, hillside fences, and retaining wall-fences need full building and zoning clearances (B-fence).
In unincorporated Maricopa County, decks not more than 30 inches above grade are generally exempt from building permits. Elevated decks, covered patios (ramadas), and attached patio structures require permits. Setback and lot coverage requirements apply to all outdoor structures.
Most renovation work in unincorporated Maricopa County requires building permits. Structural changes, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and roofing work all need permits. Cosmetic work like painting and flooring does not require permits. Apply through the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department.
1 cities in Maricopa County have their own permit requirements rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for Maricopa County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Maricopa County Ordinance Hub →