North Phoenix & Scottsdale
Zoning Guide
Understanding zoning is the first step to building your dream home. We guide you through every regulation.
Navigating zoning codes in Maricopa County, the City of Phoenix, and the City of Scottsdale can be complex. As a licensed contractor (ROC 365842) and real estate agent, Enjoy Homes brings the full picture — from lot selection to permit approval — under one roof.
Know Your Zone
Common Zoning Classifications
These are the most common residential zoning designations you'll encounter when building a custom home in the North Phoenix and Scottsdale areas.
Single-Family Residential
The most common residential zone in North Phoenix and Scottsdale. Allows single-family detached homes on lots of 6,000 sq ft or more.
Min. Lot Size
6,000 sq ft
Max Height
30 ft
Setbacks
Front: 20 ft · Rear: 15 ft · Side: 5 ft
Permitted Uses
- Single-family homes
- Accessory dwelling units (ADU)
- Home occupations
- Private garages
Low-Density Residential
Larger lot residential zoning common in established North Phoenix neighborhoods. Ideal for custom estate-style homes.
Min. Lot Size
10,000 sq ft
Max Height
30 ft
Setbacks
Front: 25 ft · Rear: 20 ft · Side: 7 ft
Permitted Uses
- Custom single-family homes
- Guest houses
- Pools & casitas
- Home-based businesses
Estate Residential
Large-lot estate zoning prevalent in Scottsdale's Desert Mountain, Troon, and DC Ranch areas. Designed for luxury custom builds.
Min. Lot Size
35,000 sq ft
Max Height
24 ft
Setbacks
Front: 40 ft · Rear: 30 ft · Side: 20 ft
Permitted Uses
- Luxury estate homes
- Equestrian facilities
- Guest quarters
- Agricultural uses
Planned Area Development
Custom zoning overlay used in master-planned communities like Anthem, Norterra, and Scottsdale Ranch. Rules vary by community.
Min. Lot Size
Varies by plan
Max Height
Varies by plan
Setbacks
Defined in PAD document
Permitted Uses
- Mixed residential types
- Community amenities
- Commercial nodes
- Open space requirements
By Location
Area Zoning Notes
North Phoenix (85050, 85054)
Primarily R1-6 and R1-10 zoning. Anthem and Norterra are PAD communities. Desert Ridge area has mixed-use overlays. New custom builds common in Dynamite Corridor.
North Scottsdale (85255, 85262)
R1-35 and R1-43 estate lots dominate. DC Ranch, Troon, and Desert Mountain are master-planned PAD communities with strict design guidelines and HOA review.
Cave Creek / Carefree (85331)
Rural residential (RU-43, RU-70) zoning allows large acreage custom builds. Equestrian properties common. Dark Sky ordinance limits exterior lighting.
Peoria / Surprise (85383, 85387)
Growing area with R1-6 and R1-8 zoning. Many new master-planned communities. Maricopa County jurisdiction in unincorporated areas.
Step by Step
The Permit Process
From initial concept to Certificate of Occupancy — here's what to expect when building in Phoenix or Scottsdale.
01
Pre-Application Meeting
Meet with city planning staff to review your project scope, zoning compliance, and any variances needed before submitting plans.
02
Site Plan Review
Submit a detailed site plan showing lot dimensions, setbacks, building footprint, driveway, and utility connections.
03
Building Plan Submittal
Full architectural and structural drawings submitted to the city building department for plan review.
04
Plan Review & Corrections
City reviewers check for code compliance. Corrections are addressed and resubmitted until approved.
05
Permit Issuance
Building permit issued. Construction may begin. Permit must be posted on-site at all times.
06
Inspections & Certificate of Occupancy
Scheduled inspections at key milestones. Final inspection results in Certificate of Occupancy.
Disclaimer: Zoning information provided here is for general guidance only and is subject to change. Always verify current zoning designations and requirements with the applicable city or county planning department before purchasing land or beginning construction. Enjoy Homes · ROC 365842 · Jo Long, Qualifying Party.
Have Zoning Questions?
We've navigated the permitting process dozens of times in North Phoenix and Scottsdale. Let us guide you through yours.