Mesa Zoning & Land Use Guide
Sources checked· 2026-10-04
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Mesa
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA flood mapping: check parcel-specific flood-zone status
- View FEMA Flood Map
State — Arizona
- Building Code: 2024 ICC family of codes and 2023 NEC with Mesa amendments, effective January 8, 2026
- State ADU Override: Yes (Arizona HB 2720 (2024) / A.R.S. § 9-461.18 requires municipalities over 75,000 population (Mesa qualifies) to allow at least one attached and one detached ADU on single-family lots, capped at 75% of the primary dwelling or 1,000 sq ft (whichever is less).)
County — Maricopa County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
RS-9Single Residence 9
- Min Lot
- 9,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 30 ft
- Front Setback
- 15 ft livable/porch/side-entry garage; 25 ft front-facing garage/carport
- Side Setback
- 7 ft minimum either side / 17 ft aggregate; 10 ft street side
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
RS-7Single Residence 7
- Min Lot
- 7,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 30 ft
- Front Setback
- 10 ft livable/porch/side-entry garage; 20 ft front-facing garage/carport
- Side Setback
- 5 ft minimum either side / 15 ft aggregate; 10 ft street side
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
RS-6Single Residence 6
- Min Lot
- 6,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 30 ft
- Front Setback
- 10 ft livable/porch/side-entry garage; 20 ft front-facing garage/carport
- Side Setback
- 5 ft minimum either side / 15 ft aggregate; 10 ft street side
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
ADU Rules in Mesa
ADUs:Allowed
- Max Size
- 1,000 sq ft or 75% of the habitable floor area of the primary dwelling, whichever is less
- Max Height
- Must comply with the underlying zoning district height limit
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft maximum local requirement under current state-law framework; verify placement rules in Mesa code
- Side Setback
- 5 ft maximum local requirement under current state-law framework; verify placement rules in Mesa code
- Parking
- No additional ADU parking space required; the property must maintain required parking for the primary residence
Permit Costs & Timelines
Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines
Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.
Check current Mesa permit information →Official Sources
City-specific
Frequently Asked Questions
What zones allow multi-family housing in Mesa?
Multi-family housing is typically permitted in R-3 and higher residential districts, as well as in certain commercial and mixed-use zones. Check the local zoning code for specific district allowances.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Zoning codes and building regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department and building authority before making any decisions.