Prime Building

Arizona ADU Law

ADUs are now mainstream in Arizona.

Arizona's ADU market is moving from a niche construction category into a mainstream option for homeowners. Recent state law and city ordinances have unlocked your backyard — here's what you need to know.

State Law

HB 2720 — ADUs allowed statewide

Arizona House Bill 2720 requires larger Arizona municipalities to allow accessory dwelling units on lots where single-family homes are already permitted. Cities can no longer outright ban ADUs in residential zones.

City of Phoenix

Up to 2 — and sometimes 3 — ADUs per home

Phoenix's public ADU guide confirms that state law and city ordinance allow two ADUs, and on some parcels three ADUs, per single-family detached house. That can mean a casita, a garage conversion and an attached unit — all on one lot.

What this means for you

More income, more flexibility, fewer hurdles

Lower permitting friction. Bigger rental income potential. Real multigenerational housing without buying more land. We handle every code, setback and review on your behalf — so you don't have to read the ordinance to benefit from it.

By City

How the rules differ across the Valley.

HB 2720 sets the floor — but each city writes its own ordinance on top. Here's a plain-English snapshot of what changes by location.

Phoenix

Permit
8–12 weeks
Max Size
Up to 1,000 sq ft
  • State law + city ordinance allow 2 ADUs — and 3 on some qualifying parcels — per single-family house.
  • Allowed on most R1 and R-2 single-family detached lots.
  • Both attached and detached units permitted; ADU may be rented long-term.
  • Owner-occupancy is not required for the primary dwelling.
Phoenix ADU builder →

Mesa

Permit
6–10 weeks
Max Size
Up to 1,000 sq ft
  • One ADU per single-family lot — detached, attached, or interior conversion.
  • Among the friendliest review timelines in Arizona.
  • Long-term rentals allowed; STR rules follow state law.
  • No separate parking minimum on most qualifying lots.
Mesa ADU builder →

Gilbert

Permit
8–12 weeks
Max Size
Up to ~75% of main home
  • Permitted in most residential zones.
  • Owner-occupancy of either the main home or the ADU is typically required.
  • HOA approval often required — we handle the submission.
  • Multigenerational and pool-house combos are common here.
Gilbert ADU builder →

Tempe

Permit
8–12 weeks
Max Size
Typically up to 1,000 sq ft
  • Permitted on most R1 lots, including ASU-area infill.
  • Strong support for income-producing rental units.
  • STR registration required if used as short-term rental.
  • Detached, attached, and garage-conversion ADUs all allowed.
Tempe ADU builder →

Scottsdale

Permit
10–14 weeks
Max Size
Varies by zoning district
  • ADUs (locally called 'guest houses' or 'casitas') allowed in most residential zones.
  • Stricter design and height standards in hillside / ESL districts.
  • Short-term rental of an ADU is permitted but must be registered with the city.
  • HOA review is typical and often the longest single step.

Glendale

Permit
8–12 weeks
Max Size
Typically up to 1,000 sq ft
  • Allowed on most single-family lots subject to standard setbacks.
  • Both attached and detached ADUs permitted.
  • Historic-district lots have additional design review — we handle it.
  • Long-term rentals allowed; check HOA for any added restrictions.
Glendale ADU builder →

Snapshot only — ordinances change and lot-specific rules (setbacks, easements, overlays, HOA) always apply. We verify the exact rules for your address in writing before design starts.

FAQ

Common questions about Arizona ADU rules.

Does HB 2720 apply to my city?

It applies to larger Arizona municipalities. We build across Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe, Glendale, Queen Creek and more — all covered.

Can I really put more than one ADU on my lot?

In Phoenix, yes — up to two ADUs by ordinance, and three on qualifying parcels. We confirm your specific lot during the free site walk.

Do I need to live in the main house?

Some cities have owner-occupancy or short-term rental restrictions. We review them with you before design begins.

How long does permitting take now?

Most East Valley cities run 6–12 weeks. Phoenix is typically 8–12. HB 2720 has streamlined many reviews.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Specific lot rules, setbacks and HOA restrictions vary. We confirm everything that applies to your property in writing before any work begins.