Zoning Guide

Gilbert Setbacks & Height Limits — Residential Zones

Last updated: Verified:

Fact-checked against the current Town of Gilbert Land Development Code publication on September 20, 2026.

Gilbert's single-family districts use separate development tables. The previous page understated several side and rear setbacks, especially in SF-8, SF-10, and SF-15.

Current Single-Family Standards

The current Land Development Code publication gives:

District Min. Lot Front Side Rear Max. Height
SF-6 6,000 sq ft 20 ft 5 ft & 10 ft 20 ft 30 ft / 2 stories
SF-7 7,000 sq ft 20 ft 5 ft & 10 ft 20 ft 30 ft / 2 stories
SF-8 8,000 sq ft 20 ft 10 ft 25 ft 30 ft / 2 stories
SF-10 10,000 sq ft 25 ft 10 ft 30 ft 30 ft / 2 stories
SF-15 15,000 sq ft 30 ft 15 ft 30 ft 30 ft / 2 stories

For SF-6 and SF-7, the table's “5 & 10” side-yard entry should be read with the code's additional side-setback provisions rather than as two interchangeable 5-ft yards.

The earlier page listed SF-8 at 7-ft side / 25-ft rear, SF-10 at 8-ft side / 25-ft rear, and SF-15 at 10-ft side. Those values do not match Gilbert's published tables.

Coverage and Additional Standards

For example, the SF-6 table lists maximum lot coverage of 45% for a one-story dwelling and 40% for a two-story dwelling. Planned Area Developments and the Heritage Village Overlay can modify base standards.

Accessory structures also have their own height and setback rules.

Arizona ADU Law

Arizona has a statewide ADU statute, A.R.S. §9-461.18. The statute limits municipal restrictions on ADU parking, design, height, setbacks, lot size, coverage, and frontage and caps required rear/side ADU setbacks at 5 ft.

Gilbert's local Land Development Code therefore cannot be analyzed in isolation from current state law.

How to Check a Property

  1. Confirm the exact zoning district and any PAD or overlay.
  2. Read the corresponding §3.2.4 development table.
  3. Read the lettered notes attached to the front, side, and rear setbacks.
  4. Check accessory-structure and ADU rules separately.
  5. Confirm unusual parcel conditions with Gilbert Planning.

Official Sources

This guide is informational only. The current Land Development Code, PAD/overlay provisions, state law, and parcel-specific approvals control.

More about Gilbert Zoning

ADU Rules & RegulationsBuilding Permits

Sources

  1. Gilbert Land Development Code·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-04-14·Direct link
  2. Town of Gilbert Development Services Department·gilbertaz.gov·Accessed 2026-04-14·Direct link
  3. Gilbert Zoning Map·gilbertaz.gov·Accessed 2026-04-14·Direct link

FAQ

What are the setback requirements for single-family homes in Gilbert?
Setbacks in Gilbert vary by single-family district. SF-6 and SF-7 zones typically require a 20 ft front setback, 5 ft interior side setbacks, and a 20 ft rear setback. Larger-lot zones like SF-10 and SF-15 use wider side and rear setbacks. Always verify your specific zone on the Gilbert zoning map.
What is the maximum building height in Gilbert residential zones?
Maximum building height in Gilbert single-family residential zones (SF-6 through SF-15) is 30 ft, measured from average natural grade to the highest point of the roof. Overlay districts and design review can lower this.
What does the SF-6 / SF-7 / SF-8 designation mean in Gilbert?
Gilbert's single-family districts are named after their minimum lot size in thousands of square feet. SF-6 has a 6,000 sq ft minimum lot, SF-7 is 7,000 sq ft, SF-8 is 8,000 sq ft, SF-10 is 10,000 sq ft, and SF-15 is 15,000 sq ft. Larger minimum lots come with wider setbacks.
Can I build closer to the property line with a variance in Gilbert?
Yes — if strict application of the Land Development Code creates a hardship unique to your lot, you can apply to the Board of Adjustment for a variance. Variances are discretionary, require public notice, and are not granted for convenience. Contact Gilbert Development Services before applying.