Do I Need a Permit? (Exemptions)

Overview

Not every project needs a permit. Use this page to check your project. Each entry shows whether a permit is required, when conditions apply, and what permit type you may need. If you’re unsure, start with the closest category.

Read carefully to follow local rules. See the Frequently Asked Questions.

† The granting of a City permit does not exempt the applicant from complying with any HOA Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) or other private deed restrictions associated with the property; and permit issuance is not an indication that the work complies with any HOA’s CC&Rs or private deed restrictions.

If you are in a Historic Preservation Zone (HPZ) or are a Historic Landmark (HL), all development requires a permit and Historic Preservation Design Review.
Historic Preservation Guidelines

If your project requires a permit, visit the self-service online permitting portal Tucson Development Center Online, or visit the TDC Online Instructions page for more information before applying.

Tucson Development Center Online

TDC Online Instructions

On this page

  • Structures & Built Features — sheds, ADU/casita, fences, decks, porches/patios/carports, pools, play equipment, rain tanks, shipping containers
  • Plumbing & Gas — water heaters (tank/tankless/solar), toilets, leaks & clogs, new piping, sewer & septic, gas lines
  • Electrical & Mechanical — ceiling fans & lights, outlets & switches, breakers, low voltage, solar, HVAC & ductwork
  • Installations & Repairs — windows, doors, siding, drywall, gutters, roof repair/replacement
  • Grading & Paving — driveways/carport & street connections, slabs & patios, parking areas, slope & drainage, right-of-way/easements
  • Membrane & Fabric Structures — shade sails/cloth, patio shade, tents (small/large)
  • Temporary Uses & Events — holiday lighting, film/stage sets, temporary amusement structures

Structures & Built Features

In this section:

  • Enclosed Structures — dwelling units (houses, ADUs, casitas), sheds (unoccupied, occupied/improved), porch/patio (covering/enclosure), carport (covering/enclosure)
  • Pools & Recreation Features — above-ground pools, in-ground pools, decks, play equipment
  • General Structures — fences & walls, fireplaces & chimneys, interior finishes, construction noise hours
  • Tanks & Storage — rainwater systems, shipping containers
  • Demolition — exterior demolition, interior demolition

Permits are usually required for new or changed structures, especially if they are occupiable or close to property lines. Work may be exempt if the structure is small, not occupiable, and meets height and setback limits.

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Enclosed Structures

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Dwelling Units (House, ADU, Guest House, etc.) A permit is required for any building used as a place to live, including new houses, guest houses, casitas, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). A dwelling unit is defined as having a place to sleep, a bathroom, and a kitchen. It does not matter if the space is rented or used by family—if it has sleeping, cooking, and bathing areas, it counts as a dwelling unit. Yes Permit includes zoning, building, and utility review. Both attached and detached units must follow Accessory Dwelling Unit standards: ADU Information New Building/Dwelling, Development Package, Accessory Dwelling Unit
Sheds & Storage (Unoccupied) Sheds or storage units 200 sq ft or less may be exempt if they are for storage only, do not have plumbing, gas, or electrical wiring, are not placed in front yards, and meet setback rules. Larger sheds always require a permit. Depends on details Because zoning setbacks are often misunderstood, sheds in setback areas almost always require a permit. Approval in setbacks requires zoning and building safety review, plus a signed Neighbor Waiver from the adjacent property owner. If a waiver cannot be obtained, you may request a Design Development Option (DDO) for planning approval. All sheds must still meet rules for size, height, and placement to avoid code violations. Addition/Alteration
Sheds & Structures (Occupied or Improved) A permit is required for any shed or structure that is occupied or improved. This includes workshops, greenhouses, carports, pergolas, gazebos, or any shed with plumbing, gas, or electrical wiring (lights, outlets, appliances). Any shed larger than 200 sq ft also requires a permit. Yes Even without utilities, a structure counts as "occupied" if it is designed or used for sustained activity. Adding plumbing, gas, or wiring always requires permit review for safety and zoning. Addition/Alteration
Porch, Patio, & Carport (Covering or Enclosure) A permit is required to enclose a porch or add a roof structure over a patio or carport. This includes adding screens, windows, solid roofing, pergolas, or fabric covers. Yes Addition/Alteration

Pools & Recreation Features

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Above-Ground Pools & Water Features A permit is required for any above-ground structure designed to hold standing water if it exceeds 5,000 gallons or is deeper than 18 inches. This includes pools, spas, and large pre-fabricated ponds. Yes Swimming Pool
In-Ground Pools & Water Features A permit is required to construct any in-ground pool, spa, hot tub, or pond designed to hold standing water. Yes Swimming Pool
Deck Construction (less than 30" above ground) A permit is not required for a deck that is 30 inches or less above ground, not built over a basement or floor below, not part of an accessible route or required exit, and does not extend into required side or rear yard setbacks. Depends on details Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration
Deck Construction (more than 30" above ground) A permit is required for any deck that is more than 30 inches above the ground or floor level. Yes Addition/Alteration
Play & Recreation Equipment A permit is not required for play equipment like swing sets, as long as it is placed on a single-family property, outside required side and rear yard setbacks, and is no taller than 5 feet or larger than 10 square feet. Depends on details Permit required if: taller than 5 ft in height and larger than 10 ft in area, or located in a Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration

General Structures

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Fence & Wall Construction All fences and walls require a permit for zoning review of location, height, and distance from structures. Engineered plans may be required if the fence or wall is over 6 feet tall or functions as a retaining wall by holding back soil or changing ground level. Shorter fences or walls may not need a full permit or inspection, but zoning review is always required. Yes Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Fence/Wall
Fireplaces and Chimneys A permit is required for any new fireplace or chimney. Masonry versions must follow construction and seismic safety codes. Factory-built units must meet approved installation standards and labeling requirements. Yes Permit ensures structural support, fire safety clearances, and proper venting. Factory-built units must meet listing and labeling requirements. Addition/Alteration
Interior Finishes Installing or replacing finishes like paint, tile, carpet, cabinets, or countertops does not require a permit, as long as the work does not affect plumbing or electrical systems. No None
Construction Noise Hours Construction activities that create noise are only allowed between sunrise and 8 p.m. Monday–Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. Work outside of these hours requires a noise exemption or variance. Yes CMO Exception or BofA Variance

Tanks & Storage

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Rainwater Collection Systems Water tanks or cisterns placed directly on the ground may not require a permit if they hold 1,000 gallons or less, are no more than twice as tall as they are wide, and meet all zoning height and setback rules. Depends on details Placement and size restrictions apply Addition/Alteration
Shipping Containers A permit is required to place a shipping container on a property, regardless of its use. Yes Shipping Containers

Demolition

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Exterior Demolition A permit is required to partially or fully demolish a building, structure, or exterior wall—including removal of unpermitted structures. Yes Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Demolition
Interior Demolition A permit is required for interior demolition that affects structural elements, load-bearing walls, or fire-rated assemblies. Cosmetic work like removing cabinets or flooring does not require a permit. Yes Interior Only Demolition

Plumbing & Gas

In this section:

  • Plumbing Systems — water heaters (tank, tankless, solar), toilets, sinks, showers, tubs, leaks & clogs, new piping, water softeners
  • Sewer & Septic — sewer connections, septic system installations
  • Fuel & Gas Systems — fuel gas changes, propane/natural gas systems, portable propane

Permits are usually required for new fixtures, pipe changes, fuel conversions, and wastewater work. Work may be exempt if it is minor, such as clearing clogs or replacing a toilet in the same spot.

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Plumbing Systems

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heater Installing a tankless (on-demand) water heater requires a permit and detailed plans, due to higher fuel or power demands. Yes Trade
Tank Water Heater (New or Fuel Change) Installing a new tank water heater or switching to a different fuel type (gas or electric) requires a permit and inspection. Yes Trade
Tank Water Heater (Replacement) Replacing a tank-style water heater with the same type and size requires a permit and inspection. Yes Trade
Solar Water Heater Installing a solar water heating system requires a permit and must meet plumbing and energy code requirements. Yes Trade
Toilet Installation Installing a toilet in a new location, involving new plumbing and/or increasing wastewater flow to the sewer system, requires a permit. Yes Trade & Pima County Waste Water
Toilet Replacement Replacing an existing toilet with a new one in the same location does not require a permit. No None
Other Fixtures (Sink, Shower, Bathtub) Installing or replacing a plumbing fixture—such as a sink, shower, or bathtub—requires a permit if the work involves connecting new water, drain, or vent piping. Yes Trade
New Piping A permit is required for any new plumbing pipes, including water supply, drain, or vent lines. Yes Trade
Leaks & Clogs Fixing a leak or clearing a clogged pipe does not require a permit if the work is limited to accessible parts of the system. A permit is required if the repair involves replacing or rerouting pipes, valves, or fixtures—especially if they are inside walls, under floors, or behind access panels. No Trade
Water Softener (Install or Replace) Installing or replacing a water softener requires a plumbing permit. Yes Trade

Sewer & Septic

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Septic System Installation Installing a new septic system requires a permit and must follow all health and environmental regulations. Yes Development Package & Pima County Waste Water
Sewer Connection Connecting to the sewer system or increasing the amount of wastewater discharged requires a permit. Permits may be needed from both the City of Tucson and Pima County. Yes Development Package & Pima County Waste Water

Fuel & Gas Systems

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Fuel Gas Change A permit and inspection are required to switch between propane and natural gas, due to differences in appliance setup and fuel delivery. Yes Includes verification of appliance compatibility, fuel delivery pressure, and piping standards. Utility coordination may be required. UST/AST Storage Tank, Addition/Alteration, Trade
Propane & Natural Gas Systems A permit is required for any propane or natural gas system that uses fixed piping, including tank installation or connection to appliances. Yes Applies to fixed piping and tanks, whether above or below ground. Coordination with Southwest Gas or other providers may be required. UST/AST Storage Tank, Addition/Alteration, Trade
Propane (Portable) A permit is not required for portable propane appliances like grills or heaters, as long as they are not connected to a fixed gas line. No None
Septic System Installation Installing a new septic system requires a permit and must follow all health and environmental regulations. Yes Development Package & Pima County Waste Water
Sewer Connection Connecting to the sewer system or increasing the amount of wastewater discharged requires a permit. Permits may be needed from both the City of Tucson and Pima County. Yes Development Package & Pima County Waste Water

Electrical & Mechanical

In this section:

  • Electrical Systems — new fixtures, switches & receptacles, circuit/fuse repair, breaker replacements, low voltage systems, solar power
  • Mechanical Systems — central HVAC, distributed/mini-split HVAC, ductwork, evaporative coolers, portable HVAC, portable motors/equipment
  • Appliances — new installations, repairs/service, small plug-in appliances

Permits are usually required for hardwired systems, central HVAC, or new power or gas connections. Work may be exempt if it is plug-in, portable, or a like-for-like repair in the same location.

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Electrical Systems

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
New Fixtures Installing new wired lighting, ceiling fans, or electrical outlets requires a permit. This includes fixtures like chandeliers, recessed lights, and wall sconces that are hardwired, not plug-in. Yes Applies to hardwired lights, ceiling fans, or receptacles. Includes recessed lighting and new outlets. Trade permit required. Trade
Switches & Receptacles Replacing an existing wired light switch or outlet with the same type in the same location does not require a permit. No Similar to Circuit/Fuse and Component Repair. No permit is needed for like-for-like replacements using existing wiring and location. None
Circuit/Fuse and Component Repair Replacing a breaker, fuse, or electrical switch with the same type and rating, in the same location, does not require a permit. This includes minor internal part replacements as long as no changes are made to power, layout, or function. No None
Main Breaker Replacements Replacing a main breaker may not require a permit if it is a like-for-like replacement in the same location and meets specific safety standards. Depends on details Refer to Policy 2016-01 for detailed requirements. Trade
Low Voltage Electrical Low-voltage wiring and devices, like doorbells, security systems, cameras, or irrigation controllers, do not require a permit as long as they operate at less than 25 volts and use 50 volt-amps of power or less. No None
Solar Power Systems Installing a solar panel system or backup generator that connects to your home's electrical service requires a permit. Yes If you're mounting solar panels on an existing structure, that structure must already be legal and permitted before your solar permit can move forward. Solar

Mechanical Systems

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
HVAC - Central Installing or replacing a central heating or cooling system (not including evaporative coolers) requires a permit. Yes Trade permit required. Licensed HVAC contractor must ensure compliance with mechanical code and energy efficiency standards. Trade
HVAC - Distributed (Mini-Split) Installing a mini-split heating or cooling system requires a permit. Yes Permit includes electrical and mechanical review. Units must be listed and labeled per code. Trade
HVAC - Ductwork Installing, replacing, or modifying ductwork for heating or cooling systems requires a permit. Yes Applies to all duct layout changes, sizing updates, or complete duct replacements. Permit ensures compliance with ventilation and energy code. Trade
HVAC - Evaporative Replacing an evaporative cooler with the same type and size does not require a permit, unless the property is located in a Historic Preservation Zone. Depends on details Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Trade
HVAC - Portable Portable heating, cooling, or ventilation equipment that plugs into a standard outlet does not require a permit, as long as it uses its original factory cord and plug. No Unit must NOT be hardwired or permanently attached to the structure. Use original factory cord and plug. None
Motors & Other Equipment - Portable Portable electric equipment like generators, pumps, compressors, or pressure washers does not require a permit if it uses its original factory cord and plug and connects to a standard outlet. No None

Appliances

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Appliance (New Installation) Installing a new appliance that connects to water, gas, or electrical wiring requires a permit. This includes dishwashers, built-in stoves, and similar appliances that are not just plug-in. Yes Trade
Appliance (Repair or Service) Minor repairs or part replacements on existing appliances do not require a permit, as long as the appliance's original setup, power use, or location is not changed. No None
Small Appliance Plug-in Use Small plug-in appliances like toaster ovens or hot plates do not require a permit. They must use their original cord and plug, and be connected to an outlet that is rated for where it is located (like outdoor outlets for outdoor appliances). No None

Installations & Repairs

In this section:

  • Repairs & Replacements — windows, doors, drywall, rain gutters, roof surface repair, structural roof repair
  • New Installations — siding, roof penetrations, window awnings

Permits are usually required when structural parts are changed or when new exterior materials are added. Work may be exempt if repairs are minor, not structural, or limited to finishes such as paint or carpet.

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Repairs & Replacements

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Window Replacement Replacing a window with the same size and in the same location does not require a permit, unless the work involves structural framing or the property is in a Historic Preservation Zone. Depends on details Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration
Doors Replacing a door with the same size and in the same location does not require a permit, as long as no structural framing is added or changed. Depends on details Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration
Drywall Small drywall repairs do not require a permit, as long as they do not affect a shear wall or fire-rated wall. Depends on details Permit required if shear or fire walls are affected Addition/Alteration
Rain Gutter Installation Installing or replacing rain gutters does not require a permit, unless the property is located in a Historic Preservation Zone. Depends on details Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration
Roof Surface Repair/Replacement Replacing roofing materials with the same type—like shingles for shingles or tile for tile—does not require a permit, as long as no structural work is involved and the property is not in a Historic Preservation Zone. Depends on details Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration
Structural Roof Repair A permit is required for any structural roof work, including replacement of sheathing, decking, joists, or trusses. Yes Permit ensures review of framing, load calculations, and weather protection. Addition/Alteration

New Installations

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Siding (Installation or Replacement) Installing new exterior siding requires a permit. This includes materials like vinyl, wood, fiber cement, metal, or stone. Yes Includes removal and replacement or installation over bare wall framing. Zoning setbacks and wall fire-rating may apply near property lines. Addition/Alteration
Roof Penetrations Installing skylights, light tubes, or new roof vents for plumbing, kitchens, or attics requires a permit. Yes Penetrations must be flashed and sealed per building code. Energy and mechanical code may apply to skylights and vent fans. Addition/Alteration
Window Awnings A permit is not required for window awnings if they are attached to an exterior wall, extend no more than 54 inches (1372mm), and do not encroach into required side or rear yard setbacks. Depends on details Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration

Grading & Paving

In this section:

  • Paving — small area paving, driveways & street connections, concrete slabs, large area paving, parking lots, right-of-way & easements, slope/drainage changes, paving in a zone, paving maintenance
  • Grading & Excavation — grading not in a zone, driveway grading, building excavation, grading in a zone, land clearing

Permits are usually required for slope changes, new paving areas, or work in regulated zones or easements. Work may be exempt if it is routine maintenance or limited in size, depth, or impact.

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Paving

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Small Area Paving A permit is not required for paving less than 3,000 square feet on private property, such as walkways, backyard patios, or non-structural slabs. No None
Driveways & Street Connections A permit is required to install or change a driveway that connects to a public street, curb, or sidewalk. Yes Requires Right-of-Way permit and inspection. Work must comply with city standard details and ADA accessibility where applicable. Development Package
Concrete Slabs (Slab on Grade) A permit is not required for placing flat concrete slabs on a properly graded site, as long as they are not part of a building structure. No None
Large Area Paving Paving 3,000 square feet or more requires a permit. This includes large driveways, patios, sport courts, or parking areas. Yes Includes both new paving and expansions. Permit ensures review of site drainage, slope, and material compatibility. Development Package
Parking Lot A permit is required for new or expanded paving of commercial or multifamily parking lots. Yes Applies to commercial and multifamily sites. Permit includes layout review, striping, ADA access, and landscape requirements. Development Package
Right-of-Way & Easements Paving over utility easements or within the public right-of-way requires a permit. This includes areas with underground services or shared access. Yes Right-of-Way permit required. Includes utility coordination, safety clearances, and conformance with recorded easements or city ownership. Right-of-Way
Slope & Drainage Change Changing the slope or drainage of a paved area requires a permit. Yes Permit ensures drainage remains on-site and does not impact neighboring properties or public right-of-way. Development Package
Paving in a Zone Paving in Hillside Zones, floodplains, or washes always requires a permit. Yes Permit ensures conformance with Floodplain Use, Hillside Development, and environmental overlay zones. Site review required. Development Package, Floodplain Use
Paving Maintenance Routine maintenance like sealcoating, patching, or resurfacing does not require a permit, as long as the paved area is not expanded or regraded and does not interfere with the Right-of-Way. No None

Grading & Excavation

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Grading Not in a Zone Grading may not require a permit if it is outside a regulated zone and all of the following apply: area is less than 14,000 sq. ft., cuts and fills are under 3 feet deep, slope is less than 15%, material moved is under 50 cubic yards, and natural drainage is not altered. Depends on details All conditions must be met to qualify as permit-exempt. Site review may still be required to confirm exemption. Development Package
Driveway or Access Road Grading Routine grading to maintain an existing private driveway or access road does not require a permit, as long as no new land is disturbed. No None
Building Excavation Excavation for foundations, utility lines, or structural supports is typically covered by a building permit. A separate grading permit is only required if the work is not part of an approved building permit. Yes Covered by Building Permit if part of an approved project. Standalone excavation may require a separate Grading Permit or review by Site Engineering. New Building
Grading in a Zone Grading in Hillside Zones, floodplains, washes, or environmentally sensitive areas typically requires a permit, regardless of slope or area. Depends on details Permit may be required regardless of grading size or slope. Site review is strongly recommended. Development Package
Land Clearing (Grubbing) Clearing vegetation or brush from land requires a permit unless it is part of an approved grading or development plan. Yes Development Package

Membrane & Fabric Structures

In this section:

  • Shade Structures — small area shading, large area shading
  • Tents — small tents, large tents

Permits are usually required for large or occupiable structures, especially at events or businesses. Work may be exempt if the structure is small, temporary, open, and for private use.

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Shade Structures

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Small Area Shading A permit may not be required for shade sails that are 400 square feet or less and not used as a carport, patio cover, or other occupiable space. Depends on details Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration
Large Area Shading A permit is required for shade cloth structures larger than 400 square feet, or for any size shade structure used as a carport, patio cover, or other occupiable space. Yes Addition/Alteration

Tents

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Small Tents A permit may not be required for tents up to 400 square feet, or up to 700 square feet if at least two sides are open to the outside. Tents must not obstruct emergency access or exit routes and must comply with fire safety requirements. Depends on details If used for a temporary event such as a street fair or vendor booth, a Fire Special Event Permit may be needed. Special District Review required if in Historic Preservation Zone or Neighborhood Preservation Zone Addition/Alteration
Large Tents Tents larger than 400 square feet, or 700 square feet if at least two sides are open, require a permit, Fire Department coordination, and may also need zoning review. Yes Larger structures used for events, assembly, or commercial activity are always subject to permit requirements and may require an associated Fire Permit. Addition/Alteration

Temporary Uses & Events

In this section:

  • Temporary Events & Installations — holiday lighting, film & stage productions, temporary amusement structures

Permits are usually required if the activity involves crowds, amplified sound, street use, or safety impacts. Work may be exempt if it is private, low-impact, and stays within time and location limits.

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Temporary Events & Installations

Project Type Plan Requirement Details Permit Required Permit Notes Permit Type(s)
Holiday & Short-Term Lighting Temporary decorative lighting, such as holiday lights, does not require a permit if it uses the original factory cord and plug, is connected to an outdoor-rated outlet, and is used for up to 30 days, with one possible 30-day extension each year. No None
Film & Stage Productions Temporary stage sets or scenery for film, television, or theater productions require a permit and coordination with multiple City departments. Yes Temporary Structure, Fire Special Event Permits - Organizer/Vendor, Zoning Special Use
Temporary Amusement Structures Temporary amusement rides or structures set up for 30 days or less require a permit and coordination with multiple City departments. Yes Temporary Structure, Fire Special Event Permits - Organizer/Vendor, Zoning Special Use
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