Building Smarter Spaces: What Arizona’s New Laws Mean for You
Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Arizona is now easier than ever—thanks to new laws that expand homeowner rights across the state. But if you’re like most homeowners, trying to make sense of zoning rules and regulations can still feel overwhelming.
In this quick guide, we’ll break down exactly what Arizona’s ADU zoning laws mean, what cities are required to allow, and how you can start planning your own ADU with clarity and confidence.
Arizona Passed New Laws Supporting ADUs
In 2024, Arizona passed two major bills—HB 2720 and SB 1415—to make ADUs more accessible statewide.
Here’s the short version:
- Cities with populations over 75,000 must allow at least one ADU per lot zoned for single-family homes.
- Local governments can no longer completely prohibit ADUs.
- Cities had until January 2025 to update their zoning codes to comply.
These changes aim to increase affordable housing, support multigenerational living, and give homeowners more flexibility with their properties—all while making smarter use of existing neighborhoods.
What Cities Can—and Can’t—Regulate
Even though Arizona law now requires ADUs to be permitted, cities still have some control over how ADUs are built.
Cities Can Regulate:
- Setbacks (how far the ADU must be from property lines)
- Height limits for detached structures
- Parking requirements (within reasonable limits)
- Size restrictions based on lot size
- Design guidelines to maintain neighborhood character
Cities Cannot:
- Ban ADUs altogether in qualifying single-family zones
- Require oversized lot sizes just to allow an ADU
- Charge excessive or punitive permitting fees
Bottom line: If you meet the basic local standards, you have the right to build an ADU under Arizona law.
What This Means for You and Your Family
Building an ADU isn’t just about adding extra space—it’s about creating opportunity.
Whether you want to:
- Build a backyard home for aging parents
- Offer your adult children an affordable place to live
- Create rental income to support your future
- Design a flexible guest space or office
ADUs open doors to smarter, more connected living.
They strengthen families, neighborhoods, and communities—all while boosting property value and housing flexibility.
PlanHAUS: Your Partner in Smarter Building
Understanding zoning is just the first step.
At PlanHAUS, we help Arizona homeowners navigate local rules, design thoughtful ADUs, and bring projects to life—all with real-world construction and permitting expertise.
We specialize in:
- Feasibility reviews for your specific lot
- Architect-designed ADU plans (custom or pre-designed)
- Full permitting guidance
- Smart, future-ready design solutions
Whether you’re ready to build or just exploring your options, we’re here to help you move forward—with clarity and confidence.
