Shed Installation Permits in Scottsdale

Local Rule

City of Scottsdale Planning Services, One Stop Shop; Scottsdale accessory structure standards

For a residential non-livable detached accessory structure such as a tool/storage shed or pergola, Scottsdale does not require a building permit if the structure is less than 200 square feet, per the city's own guidance, but plan approval from Planning Services and compliance with required setbacks is always mandatory regardless of size. A shed cannot occupy more than 30 percent of the rear yard (75 percent in R-5 districts) and is not permitted in the front or side yard setback. Setbacks scale with height: a structure under 10 feet needs a 2-foot minimum setback, with 1 additional foot required for every foot of height above 10 feet. Properties in the Foothills Overlay Area follow a completely different set of accessory-structure development standards.

Source · Verified September 2026

Scottsdale Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Maricopa County

Scottsdale's own rule is shown above (No permit under 200 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

Maricopa County Planning & Development

Unincorporated Maricopa County allows residents to build detached, single-story, non-habitable accessory structures up to 200 square feet without a building permit. The structure must be entirely free of electrical, plumbing, or mechanical connections. Note that this exemption applies strictly to unincorporated areas, and incorporated cities within the county may enforce their own distinct thresholds and zoning requirements.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Scottsdale with a confirmed shed installation rule:

FAQs

Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need

Popular tools and materials homeowners use for a shed installation project:

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