The skyline in Scottsdale, Arizona may be modern, but every project here has to respect the desert environment, strict zoning codes, and the city’s high design standards. From luxury resorts along Camelback to single-family builds in master-planned communities, no project breaks ground without navigating the Scottsdale permitting process first.
This guide walks you through what it takes to secure a Scottsdale building permit, covering requirements, fees, timelines, and the city’s online permit portal.
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What requires a building permit in Scottsdale?
The City of Scottsdale requires a building permit for most construction, remodel, or trade-related work that affects structure, safety systems, or utilities.
Projects that require a permit typically include:
- New residential or commercial buildings
- Room additions, garage conversions, or interior remodels
- Roofing (new installation or complete replacement)
- Plumbing, electrical, or HVAC upgrades
- Fences or walls over 6 feet
- Pools, spas, and outdoor kitchens
- Detached accessory buildings over 200 sq. ft.
- Solar panel systems or generators
- Patio covers, shade structures, and pergolas
You can find the official list of Scottsdale building permit requirements on the city’s permit services page.
What doesn’t require a building permit?
Some smaller projects or cosmetic updates may not require a permit, such as:
- Interior painting, flooring, or cabinetry
- Prefabricated sheds under 200 sq. ft. (non-plumbed)
- Fence repairs or replacements 6 feet or lower
- Portable appliances (e.g., window A/C units)
- Non-structural re-roofing under a certain square footage
When in doubt, use the Scottsdale building permit search tool or call the Permit Services Center (480-312-2500) before starting work.
Scottsdale building permit cost
Permit fees are typically calculated based on construction valuation, square footage, and project type. Below is a general breakdown of the Scottsdale building permit fee structure.
Residential fees
For more information on residential fees, refer to the residential permit fee schedule.
Commercial fees
Find a full list of commercial fees in the commercial permit fee schedule.
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Scottsdale trade permits
The City of Scottsdale requires separate permits for speciality trade work, including electrical, mechanical, and plumbing projects.
- Electrical permit: Required to install, alter, reconstruct, or repair electrical wiring on any building, structure, swimming pool, or mechanical equipment.
- Plumbing permit: Required to install, alter, reconstruct, or repair any plumbing system, gas system, lawn sprinkler supply, water heater replacement.
- Mechanical permit: Required to install, alter, reconstruct, or repair any furnace, refrigeration or other AC equipment or system (not including portable or window units).
The City of Scottsdale does not publish trade permit fees online.
How long does a building permit last in Scottsdale, AZ?
All permit applications are considered abandoned if no action is taken for 180 days after the last review. However, you can request a one-time 180-day extension in writing if you can show good reason. For right-of-way permit extensions, contact Inspection Services at 480-312-5750.
How to get a building permit in Scottsdale, AZ
Step 1: Prepare your documents
Depending on your project, you may need:
- Completed Scottsdale building permit application
- Site plan / plot plan showing dimensions, setbacks, structures
- Construction drawings (to scale, sealed by an architect/engineer if required)
- Energy compliance forms (REScheck/COMcheck for new construction)
- Contractor’s license and contact details
- Owner-builder form if you are acting as your own contractor
- Supplemental items as required (grading/drainage plan, landscape plan, soils/engineering reports, etc.)
Step 2: Apply via the online portal
Use the Scottsdale eServices portal to begin your application.
First, register or log in. Then, select your permit type (building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, remodel, etc.) Upload your plans and supporting documents in the required formats, and pay initial plan review fees upon submission at One Stop Shop
Additionally, you can use the minimum permit application for certain small projects. Select the type of work you do, your location, and enter a project and description and project participants.
Finally, review and pay the fees.
Step 3: Plan review
Your application undergoes review by multiple departments, such as:
- Building Safety
- Zoning
- Fire
- Engineering / Stormwater (if applicable)
If corrections are needed, you’ll receive comments through the online portal. Resubmit corrected plans as instructed.
Step 4: Final approval & permit issuance
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a final invoice for permit fees. Pay fees online via the portal and then download and print your permit card. Post the permit card and approved plans visibly on the job site.
Step 5: Begin construction & schedule inspections
Work can begin once the permit is active. Also, don't forget to schedule inspections at key stages, such as:
- Foundation and footing
- Under-slab utilities
- Framing
- Rough plumbing, mechanical, and electrical
- Insulation
- Final building inspection
Inspections are scheduled via the Scottsdale eServices portal or through the Inspection Services line (480-312-5750).
Scottsdale permitting resources
- Permit Services Center
- Scottsdale Permit Portal
- Phone: (480) 312-2500
- Email: OneStopShopStaff@scottsdaleaz.gov
- Location: One Civic Center, 7447 E Indian School Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Scottsdale eServices
- Minimum permit application
- One Stop Shop
- Building permit fee calculator
- Fees:
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