Simone Lawson
Arizona has recently addressed its housing shortage by legalizing and regulating Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as casitas or guest houses. These self-contained living spaces, which can be attached or separate from a primary residence, offer homeowners a practical solution for multi-generational living, rental income, or increased housing availability. This paragraph will explore what constitutes an ADU in Tucson, Arizona, outlining the relevant laws, zoning requirements, and design parameters for those interested in constructing an ADU in the city.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Zoning | Allowed regardless of zoning |
| Number of ADUs | At least one attached and one detached per lot |
| Size | Maximum of 75% of the primary dwelling's gross floor area, up to 1,000 sq ft; minimum of 650 sq ft |
| Owner-occupancy | Required |
| Parking | No additional parking places required if within half a mile of public transportation or in a historic district |
| Utility connections | Must share the primary residence's utility hookups |
| Setbacks | 5 ft from side and rear property lines; minimum distance of 5 ft between structures |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Owner-occupancy requirements
In Tucson, Arizona, ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) are allowed in single-family zones with some size restrictions and mandates for owner-occupancy. This means that the owner must live in either the main house or the accessory living unit.
The size of an ADU in Tucson is based on the square footage of the lot. For lots that are 6,499 square feet or less, the ADU can be up to 650 square feet. If the lot size is 6,500 square feet or more, the ADU can be up to 1,000 square feet.
Tucson mandates that ADUs have at least one attached and one detached unit per lot in single-family residential zones. For lots or parcels that are one acre or larger, at least one additional detached ADU must be permitted if one of the units is designated as a restricted-affordable dwelling unit.
The required setback from the side and rear property lines for detached ADUs in Arizona is 5 feet. The minimum distance between a detached ancillary structure and any other structure on the property is also 5 feet.
Wild Pitches: What Constitutes and How to Avoid Them
You may want to see also
Size restrictions
In Tucson, Arizona, the size of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can be up to 75% of the gross floor area of the primary dwelling, with a maximum size of 1,000 square feet. This size restriction applies to lots that are 6,500 square feet or larger. If the lot size is smaller, at 6,499 square feet or less, the ADU size is limited to 650 square feet or less. These size limitations are based on the square footage of the lot, with larger lots accommodating larger ADUs.
It is important to note that while Tucson has relaxed zoning restrictions for ADUs, allowing them in all zones, there are still other considerations that may impact the size of an ADU. For example, historic or designated overlay zones may have additional requirements that affect the size and design of ADUs. Furthermore, private covenants or restrictions set by HOAs may restrict or prohibit ADU construction, so it is essential to check these before planning an ADU.
The City of Tucson mandates that ADUs must adhere to specific setbacks from property lines. For detached ADUs, the required setback from the side and rear property lines is 5 feet, and there must be a minimum distance of 5 feet between the ADU and any other structure on the property. These setback requirements can impact the placement and, consequently, the size of the ADU on the lot.
Tucson also promotes water-conserving gardening practices, which may influence landscaping choices around the ADU and impact the overall utilisation of space. Additionally, owner-occupancy is required, meaning the owner must live in either the main house or the ADU, which could affect the size and layout of the units to ensure they meet the needs of the owner.
While Arizona has state-level regulations for ADUs, local governments can impose their own laws. Therefore, it is crucial to consult the local planning or building department to confirm size restrictions and ensure compliance with all applicable standards, including fire safety, structural safety, utility connections, and zoning setbacks.
Schenck v US: The Espionage Act and the Constitution
You may want to see also
Parking regulations
In Arizona, local governments can impose their own laws regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs). While the state does not mandate any particular dimensions for ADUs, local municipalities and counties may impose their own size restrictions.
Tucson, for example, permits at least one ADU per lot. The maximum size is 75% of the gross floor area of the primary dwelling, up to a maximum of 1,000 square feet. All lots qualify for an ADU of at least 650 square feet.
Tucson also offers parking regulations, sets architectural standards, and promotes water-conserving gardening practices. The city exempts ADUs located within half a mile of public transportation or in a historic district from additional parking requirements, lessening the need for parking space expansion.
Municipalities cannot require ADUs to match the main home's exterior design or impose additional parking requirements. However, off-street parking requirements may apply, depending on the location.
It is important to note that while state law mandates that municipalities allow ADUs, it does not override private covenants or restrictions set by HOAs. Therefore, even if local zoning permits an ADU, your HOA may have rules that restrict or prohibit their construction.
The North Carolina Constitution: A Comprehensive Document
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Utility connections
In Tucson, Arizona, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a self-contained living space that can be attached to or separate from a primary residence. These units can be used for multi-generational living, rental income, or to increase housing availability.
When it comes to utility connections for ADUs in Tucson, there are a few important things to note. Firstly, ADUs in Tucson must comply with local regulations regarding utility connections, including plumbing, electricity, and sewage. It is important for homeowners to consult with qualified professionals, such as zoning officials and contractors, to ensure that their ADU meets all the necessary requirements.
Prefab ADUs in Arizona must share the primary residence's utility hookups. This means that the utility connections for the ADU should be connected to the existing infrastructure of the primary residence. This can include connections to the electrical, plumbing, and sewage systems of the main house.
It is important to plan and install these utility connections properly to ensure the safe and efficient functioning of the ADU. Homeowners should work with licensed professionals, such as electricians and plumbers, to ensure that the utility connections are installed correctly and comply with local building codes and safety standards.
In addition to the physical connections to the primary residence, there may also be considerations regarding utility usage and metering. Homeowners should consult with their local utility providers to understand any requirements or restrictions specific to ADUs. This may include regulations on water usage, electrical load, or sewage capacity.
By understanding and complying with the utility connection requirements, homeowners can ensure that their ADU in Tucson, Arizona, is properly equipped with the necessary utilities for comfortable and safe habitation.
Unwritten Constitutions: Nations Without a Fixed Rulebook
You may want to see also
Zoning and setbacks
In Tucson, Arizona, zoning rules for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have been relaxed, allowing homeowners to build a second unit on their property regardless of the zoning. Previously, zoning restrictions limited the ability to build a second unit, particularly in terms of including a full kitchen. Now, ADUs can include a full kitchen, regardless of zoning.
However, there are still zoning and setback requirements that must be considered when planning an ADU in Tucson. Firstly, size restrictions apply, with the maximum size for an ADU being 75% of the gross floor area of the primary dwelling or 1,000 square feet. All lots qualify for an ADU of at least 650 square feet. The size of the ADU is determined by the lot size, with lots of 6,499 square feet or less allowing ADUs of up to 650 square feet, and lots of 6,500 square feet or more permitting ADUs of up to 1,000 square feet.
In terms of setbacks, detached ADUs must be set back at least 5 feet from the side and rear property lines. Additionally, there must be a minimum distance of 5 feet between a detached ADU and any other structure on the property. Setback and height restrictions may vary depending on local zoning regulations, so it is important to consult the relevant zoning ordinances for specific requirements.
It is worth noting that while state law mandates that municipalities allow ADUs, private covenants or restrictions set by HOAs may still apply. Therefore, even if zoning permits an ADU, homeowners should check for any additional restrictions imposed by their HOA.
Mexican Constitution's Impact on Texas: A Historical Overview
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
An ADU is a self-contained living space that is either attached to or separate from a primary residence.
In Tucson, ADUs are allowed in single-family zones with some size restrictions and mandates for owner-occupancy. The maximum size is 75% of the gross floor area of the primary dwelling, up to 1,000 square feet.
ADUs offer a practical solution for multi-generational living, rental income, or increased housing availability.
The required setback from the side and rear property lines for detached ADUs is 5 feet. The minimum distance between a detached structure and any other structure on the property is also 5 feet. Owner-occupation is required, meaning the owner must live in either the main house or the ADU.
First, learn about the local zoning and construction laws that apply to your property. Develop a comprehensive blueprint for your ADU, including architectural drawings and floor plans. Verify that your plan satisfies all applicable standards for fire safety and construction. Finally, go to the relevant local planning or building department to apply for a permit.
