Before You Build in Chandler, AZ: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Block walls and masonry fences typically require building permits in Chandler. Wood fences under 6 feet may be exempt. Pool barriers must meet ARS §36-1681.

Chandler requires all residential pools and spas to have barriers at least 5 feet high per ARS 36-1681 and the adopted building code. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching.

Chandler's development standards address fence placement relative to property lines. Fences must be within the owner's lot boundaries and not obstruct public right-of-way or sight triangles.

Chandler regulates fence and wall heights through the Unified Development Manual. Residential fences are generally limited to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3 feet in front yards with sight visibility requirements.

Chandler requires building permits for retaining walls exceeding 4 feet in height. Engineered plans are needed for taller walls, and combined fence-retaining wall heights are regulated.

Chandler requires building permits for pools, spas, and hot tubs. Arizona has strict pool barrier requirements under ARS §36-1681. Inspections required.

Hot tubs and spas in Chandler must meet pool barrier requirements or have an approved locking safety cover. Building permits may be required for permanent installations with electrical connections.

Chandler enforces strict pool safety per ARS §36-1681 and the federal VGB Act. Anti-entrapment drains, barriers, alarms, and depth markers required.

Chandler enforces ARS 36-1681 pool barriers. 5-foot minimum with self-closing gates. High pool density in master-planned communities makes enforcement a priority. Inspections at permit and resale.

Above-ground pools in Chandler must meet the same barrier requirements as in-ground pools. Pools with non-climbable walls at least 5 feet high with secured ladders may satisfy barrier requirements.

Arizona HB 2720 (effective January 2025) allows ADUs by right on single-family lots in Chandler. Up to 2 ADUs per lot (1 attached, 1 detached). Maximum 1,000 sq ft or 75% of main dwelling. Chandler adopted Ordinance 5113 for compliance.

Chandler permits ADUs on single-family lots subject to building setbacks and a 15-foot height limit. One accessory building is allowed per lot, and ADUs may not be used as short-term rentals.

Chandler permits tiny homes as ADUs on permanent foundations in single-family zones, subject to the 15-foot height limit and one accessory building per lot. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs.

Carport construction in Chandler requires a building permit and must comply with zoning setback and height requirements. Carports are classified as accessory structures subject to lot coverage limits.

Chandler regulates sheds and accessory buildings through the building code and zoning standards. Larger sheds require building permits, and all accessory structures must meet setback and height requirements.

Chandler allows residential fire pits but wood-burning fires are prohibited on MCAQD-designated no-burn days. Gas and propane fire features are unrestricted. The 2021 International Fire Code applies with Chandler amendments.

Outdoor burning is heavily restricted in Chandler under Maricopa County Air Quality Department rules. Wood-burning fire pits, chimineas, and yard waste burning are prohibited on designated no-burn days. MCAQD Rule 314 governs open burning.

Chandler may protect native desert trees (palo verde, ironwood, saguaro). Street trees are city property. Proper pruning preserves shade in extreme heat.

Chandler enforces water conservation requirements including restrictions on irrigation runoff and watering during rainfall. The city offers substantial rebates for grass-to-xeriscape conversions.

Chandler does not require permits for removing trees on private residential property. City-owned trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the Urban Forestry program and cannot be removed without authorization.