Zoning Guide

Tucson Zoning & Land Use Guide

Last updated: Verified:

Official references and local checks

Use the official references below to identify the rules that apply to your address, then confirm parcel-specific requirements with the local authority before filing an application.

Official references

Population:
542,629
County:
Pima County
State building code:
No mandatory statewide building code (local adoption)(statewide default)
State ADU law:
Yes — Arizona HB 2720 (2024), codified at ARS §9-461.18, requires municipalities with populations greater than 75,000 to allow at least one attached, detached, or internal accessory dwelling unit as a permitted use on any lot where a single-family dwelling is allowed. Effective January 1, 2025.
FEMA flood map:
Search flood zones
Planning department:
City of Tucson Planning & Development Services Department
Municipal code:
View code online
Zoning map:
View local zoning map

Before you apply

  • Call the City of Tucson Planning & Development Services Department: (520) 791-5550
  • Search the municipal code for the chapter that covers your zoning district and proposed use.
  • Use the local zoning map to look up your parcel's zoning designation before applying for a permit.
  • Check FEMA flood zone for your parcel — flood-zone status changes setbacks, foundation requirements, and insurance.
  • Check your HOA CC&Rs and recorded deed restrictions — they are common in Tucson and frequently restrict ADUs, fences, and exterior changes beyond what zoning allows.

Key Zoning Facts

Local Zoning / Building Office
City of Tucson Planning & Development Services Department(520) 791-5550
Building Code Edition
2018 International Building Code (locally adopted)
ADU / Accessory Apartment
Verify by district

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Tucson

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Arizona

  • Building Code: No mandatory statewide code (local adoption)
  • State ADU Override: Yes (Arizona HB 2720 (2024) / ARS § 9-461.18 — requires municipalities >75,000 (including Tucson) to permit at least one attached, detached, or internal ADU on lots where a single-family dwelling is allowed)
View Arizona zoning overview

County — Pima 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.

Statewide Context (Arizona)

Local data for Tucson is limited. The following state-level facts apply across Arizona and are inherited by this page until city-specific details are verified.

State Building Code
No mandatory statewide building code (local adoption)
State ADU Preemption
Yes — state law overrides local rules
Coastal Zone
No
Wildfire Zones
Yes

ADU Rules in Tucson

ADUs:Allowed(statewide context — not city-specific)
Max Size
1,000 sq ft
Max Height
25 ft
Rear Setback
5 ft
Side Setback
3 ft
Parking
1 off-street space required
Owner Occupancy
Varies by jurisdiction
Permit Timeline
30-90 days
Full ADU rules for Tucson →

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 Tucson permit information →

Official Sources

City-specific

City of Tucson Planning Departmenttucsonaz.govOfficial sourceTucson Municipal Codelibrary.municode.comOfficial source

Frequently Asked Questions

What zones allow multi-family housing in Tucson?
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.