Zoning Guide

Phoenix Building Permits — Cost, Timeline & Process

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Phoenix Planning & Development Department (PDD) administers building permits, plan review, zoning review, and inspections within the City of Phoenix.

Current Building Code

Phoenix adopted the 2024 Phoenix Building Construction Code (PBCC) on June 18, 2025. It became effective August 1, 2025.

The 2024 PBCC package includes Phoenix-amended editions of:

  • 2024 International Building Code (IBC)
  • 2024 International Residential Code (IRC)
  • 2024 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
  • 2024 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
  • 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
  • 2024 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
  • 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC)
  • 2024 International Plumbing Code / Uniform Plumbing Code provisions
  • 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)

Phoenix published transition provisions for certain projects already in process under the prior 2018 code. For a new project, confirm which code edition applies to the application date and project status.

City of Phoenix — Building Construction Codes

SHAPE PHX

Phoenix uses SHAPE PHX for many Planning & Development applications and permit services. Applicants can submit applications, upload plans, pay fees, respond to comments, and track project status through the City's current online process.

Review Time

Phoenix publishes plan-review turnaround information by permit type. There is no reliable single citywide number of days that applies to every project.

Review duration depends on:

  • permit type;
  • completeness of the submittal;
  • current workload;
  • project complexity; and
  • correction/resubmittal cycles.

Use the current PDD turnaround information instead of relying on a fixed "4–8 week" estimate.

Typical Permit Workflow

  1. Confirm parcel zoning and overlays.
  2. Determine the applicable 2024 PBCC code requirements.
  3. Prepare required drawings and supporting documents.
  4. Submit through the current PDD/SHAPE PHX process.
  5. Complete applicable zoning, building, structural, civil, fire, and trade reviews.
  6. Respond to correction comments when required.
  7. Pay required fees and obtain the permit.
  8. Schedule required inspections.
  9. Complete final inspection and certificate requirements where applicable.

Official Sources

Phoenix Planning & Development

Phoenix Building Construction Codes

Phoenix Codes and Ordinances

Disclaimer: Code editions, fees, review times, and permit procedures can change. Verify the current requirements with Phoenix PDD before submitting plans or beginning work.

More about Phoenix Zoning

ADU Rules & RegulationsSetbacks & Height Limits

Sources

  1. City of Phoenix Planning & Development Department·phoenix.gov·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link
  2. SHAPE PHX — Planning & Development Online Portal·phoenix.gov·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link
  3. City of Phoenix — 2024 Building Construction Codes·phoenix.gov·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link
  4. Phoenix PDD Fees, Valuations and Assurances·phoenix.gov·Accessed 2026-09-20·Direct link

FAQ

How do I apply for a building permit in Phoenix?
Most residential and commercial permit applications are submitted through SHAPE PHX, the City of Phoenix Planning & Development Department's online customer portal. You create an account, upload plans for electronic plan review, pay fees, and schedule inspections all in one place. Walk-in service is also available at the Development Center.
How much does a building permit cost in Phoenix?
Phoenix building permit fees are calculated from project valuation, with separate plan review, inspection, and impact fees. The City publishes an official PDD Fee Schedule; exact amounts depend on your project's scope and valuation. See the Phoenix PDD Fees page linked in the sources for current rates.
How long does plan review take in Phoenix?
Phoenix publishes plan-review turnaround information by permit type. Review time varies with permit type, workload, completeness, and correction cycles; use the current PDD turnaround resources rather than a fixed citywide estimate.
Which building code does Phoenix use?
Phoenix adopted the 2024 Phoenix Building Construction Code on June 18, 2025. It became effective August 1, 2025. The package includes the 2024 IBC, IRC, IMC, IFGC, IECC, IEBC, ISPSC, IPC/UPC and the 2023 NEC, with Phoenix amendments. Limited transition provisions applied to qualifying projects already in process.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Phoenix?
Request inspections through the SHAPE PHX portal or by phone using the Automated Inspection Request System (AIRS) at 602-495-0800. Inspection requests submitted before 9 p.m. are generally scheduled for the next business day.