Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $1,000–$4,000 Covers plan check, building permit, and proportional impact/utility fees.
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at City of Phoenix Planning and Development Department →

What's Required in Phoenix

  • ADUs are allowed on single-family lots citywide (Coach houses or conversions).
  • Maximum size of 1,000 sq ft or 75% of the primary dwelling (whichever is less).
  • Must have independent kitchen, bathroom, and a separate entrance.
  • Must be located in the rear yard and maintain 3–5 foot setbacks from property lines.
  • Owner-occupancy is not required for the primary residence as of 2024/2026 rules.
  • Maximum height is generally limited to 15 feet for detached units.

How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Phoenix?

Budget $1,000–$4,000 for the Phoenix permit itself (valuation-based), issued by the City of Phoenix Planning and Development Department — but treat that as the entry fee, not the total. ADUs are full dwelling units, so the permit stack usually includes building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trade permits, plus plan review. One local note: covers plan check, building permit, and proportional impact/utility fees. Get an itemized fee estimate from the department before finalizing your budget; the spread between a simple conversion and a new detached build is wide.

ADU Size Limits and Zoning Rules in Phoenix

Before drawing plans, check the two gates that sink most ADU projects: size and zoning. On record here, the size ceiling is 1,000 square feet or 75% of the primary dwelling (whichever is less). Other recorded conditions: owner-occupancy is not required for the primary residence as of 2024/2026 rules. Setbacks, height limits, and utility connections layer on top of those rules. The City of Phoenix Planning and Development Department can confirm what your specific lot allows — worth doing before you pay for architectural drawings rather than after.

How to Get a ADU Permit in Phoenix

1

Step 1: Check Lot Eligibility

Verify setbacks and density limits for your specific residential zone.

2

Step 2: Hire Architect

Prepare detailed structural, site, and MEP plans for review.

3

Step 3: Portal Submission

Submit the 'New Residential' application via PDD Online.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the permit, plan check, and impact fees ($1,000+ typical).

5

Step 5: Full Inspection Series

Complete all sequence inspections (Foundation to Final).

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, detached ADUs (up to 1,000 sq ft) are now permitted citywide.
Permit and review fees typically start around $1,000, not including utilities.
No, additional parking is generally not required for secondary dwelling units.
On record, the ceiling is 1,000 square feet — with the exact limit depending on ADU type and lot. Confirm your configuration with the City of Phoenix Planning and Development Department.