Phoenix Zoning Code & Building Rules
Data version: Q2 2026 · Last updated 2026-05-13
TL;DR. Phoenix uses a conventional zoning system with Residential (R1 through R1-90, R-2 through R-5), Commercial (C-1 through C-3), and Industrial (A-1, A-2) designations. Arizona HB 2720 (2025) now requires ADUs statewide. Phoenix has some of the fastest permitting in any major U.S. city — standard residential permits in 2-4 weeks. Buildability™ checks your exact zone, ADU eligibility, and development standards for any Phoenix address.
Phoenix zoning districts
R1-6 (Single-Family, 6,000 sq ft lots): the most common residential zone, 30 ft height limit, 25% lot coverage typical. R1-10 (Single-Family, 10,000 sq ft): larger lots, 20 ft front setback. R-3 (Multifamily): apartments and condos up to 40 ft. R-5 (High-Density): high-density apartments and senior housing. C-1 (Neighborhood Retail): small retail and services. C-2 (Intermediate Commercial): general retail and offices, 56 ft height, mixed-use allowed. C-3 (General Commercial): broadest commercial uses.
Arizona HB 2720 ADU law
Arizona HB 2720 (effective 2025) requires Phoenix and all Arizona cities to allow up to 2 ADUs per single-family lot. Maximum size: 1,000 sq ft or 50% of primary dwelling area, whichever is less. Short-term rentals allowed in ADUs. No additional parking required. This state law preempts local restrictions, making Phoenix one of the most ADU-friendly markets in the country. Combined with fast permitting, ADU development is highly viable.
Development standards
R1-6: 6,000 sq ft minimum lot, 30 ft height, 5 ft side setbacks, 25 ft front setback. Lot coverage: 25-40% depending on zone. No state income tax — Arizona incentivizes real estate investment. Phoenix uses village planning committees that provide input on development in their areas. Heat mitigation increasingly affects design (shade requirements, cool roof standards).
Fastest major-city permitting
Phoenix Planning and Development Department (PDD) processes permits electronically with some of the fastest turnaround times in the U.S. Simple residential: 2-4 weeks. Pre-approved plan sets available for even faster processing. Commercial: 4-12 weeks. Permit costs: $1,000-$5,000 for residential — significantly lower than coastal cities. This speed advantage makes Phoenix highly attractive for ADU and infill development.
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