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Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in Scottsdale, Arizona

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ADU Rules in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale is an affluent city known for its luxury resorts, art galleries, and golf courses. The city permits ADUs in residential zones but may enforce architectural compatibility requirements. Arizona has no statewide ADU preemption mandate, so Scottsdale's local Zoning Ordinance fully governs. Verify all standards directly with Scottsdale Planning & Development Services.

Permitted ADU Types

  • Detached ADU / Guest House: A separate structure on the lot
  • Attached ADU: Addition to primary dwelling with own entrance
  • Garage Conversion: Converting a garage to a dwelling unit
  • Casita: Detached guest house, common in Scottsdale's resort-adjacent neighborhoods

Size Limits

ADU Type Maximum Size
Detached ADU 1,000 sq ft or 50% of primary dwelling
Attached ADU 50% of primary dwelling habitable area
Garage Conversion Existing footprint

Setbacks

  • Front: Must meet base zone standard (typically 20–30 ft)
  • Side: 5 feet minimum
  • Rear: 5–10 feet minimum

Height

  • Detached ADU: Maximum 14–20 feet depending on zone
  • Cannot exceed height of primary dwelling

Design Standards

Scottsdale may require architectural compatibility:

  • Roof pitch and materials must match or complement the primary dwelling
  • Exterior materials and colors should be consistent
  • Windows and doors should be compatible in style
  • Desert landscaping context should be maintained

Parking

One additional off-street parking space required per ADU.

Permit Process

  1. Pre-application: Review zoning and design standards with Scottsdale Planning
  2. Design plans: Architectural drawings showing compatibility with primary dwelling
  3. Submit application: Online through Scottsdale's permit portal
  4. Review: Zoning, design, and building code review
  5. Permit issuance: Building permit issued
  6. Inspections: All required phases
  7. Certificate of Occupancy: Required before occupancy

Contact

Scottsdale Planning & Development Services 7447 E. Indian School Rd, Suite 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Phone: (480) 312-2500 Website: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning

Disclaimer: Verify current requirements with Scottsdale Planning & Development Services. Design standards may require architectural review.

More about Scottsdale Zoning

Building PermitsSetbacks & Height Limits

Sources

  1. Scottsdale Revised Code — Zoning Ordinance·scottsdaleaz.gov·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link
  2. City of Scottsdale Planning & Development Services·scottsdaleaz.gov·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs allowed in Scottsdale, Arizona?
Yes. Scottsdale permits accessory dwelling units in residential zones. Scottsdale has design standards that may require ADUs to be architecturally compatible with the primary dwelling.
What is the maximum ADU size in Scottsdale?
In Scottsdale, detached ADUs are generally limited to 1,000 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling's habitable floor area, whichever is less.
Does Scottsdale have design standards for ADUs?
Yes. Scottsdale may require that ADUs be architecturally compatible with the primary dwelling — similar roof pitch, materials, and color scheme. Review current standards with Scottsdale Planning.