You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-07-07.
Unincorporated Cochise County building permits
Unincorporated Cochise County, Arizona — as published 2026-07-07.
Reviewed 2026-07-23 · Source
Codes adopted
2015 International Building Code (IBC), with Cochise County local amendments — current as of building-safety and FAQ pages accessed 2026-07-072015 International Residential Code (IRC), with Cochise County local amendments, plus Appendix Q (Tiny Houses) of the 2018 IRC adopted separately2015 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)2015 International Mechanical Code (IMC)2015 International Fire Code (IFC)2015 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)2015 International Plumbing Code (IPC)2015 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) — inserted in place of IBC Section 3109 per local amendmentNFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC), 2014 EditionSound Attenuation Ordinance, as mandated by A.R.S. §§28-8481 and 28-8482NOTE: Cochise County is actively developing a Building Code update (CP2045 implementation) as of mid-2026, with a Builder's Roundtable held May 28, 2026 and a Building Code Advisory and Appeals Board reviewing proposed amendments; the 2015-edition code set above remains the adopted/in-force code as of this file's lastVerified date — no new edition has been adopted yet.
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit (New Construction, Addition, Accessory Structure)
VerifiedRequired for new single-family dwellings, additions, alterations, and accessory structures in unincorporated Cochise County. The Development Services Department's Building Safety Division enforces the 2015 IBC/IRC with local amendments. Applications and plan submittals are completed online through the county's Citizenserve permitting portal.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Required for new single-family dwellings, additions, alterations, replacements, and accessory structures in unincorporated Cochise County
- Confirm the property's zoning allows the intended residential use, and verify site conditions (floodplain, stormwater/drainage, access/driveway, septic or sewer, well, fire district requirements) before applying
- Determine whether additional permits are needed (septic, floodplain, right-of-way, temporary RV, accessory structure)
- Create an account and apply online through the Cochise County Permitting Portal (Citizenserve); select Residential Permit, then the correct project subtype
- Provide parcel number, project description (new/addition/alteration/replacement), number of bedrooms, sewer/septic information, water fixtures, and utility service details
- If using a licensed contractor, provide current contractor information via the Contractor Information Form
- If applying under the Rural Residential Owner-Builder Amendment, follow the separate eligibility and application instructions (4-acre-minimum zoning districts only)
Required documents
- RequiredResidential Permit Application (Citizenserve portal)Submitted online through the Cochise County Permitting Portal; https://www4.citizenserve.com/Portal/PortalController?Action=showHomePage&ctzPagePrefix=Portal_&installationID=335
- OptionalContractor Information Form (PDF)Required when a licensed contractor performs the work; available at https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12367
- RequiredSite Plans per Residential Construction Plan ChecklistSite plan meeting the county's Residential Construction Plan Checklist; available at https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12362
- RequiredResidential Plan Requirements Checklist (PDF)Full plan-content checklist for residential submittals; available at https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4427/Residential-Plan-Requirements-Checklist-PDF
- OptionalSierra Vista Sub-Watershed Conservation Attachment (PDF)Required only for parcels within the Sierra Vista Sub-Watershed; available at https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12368
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Building Permit Fee Rate Schedule — valuation-based (graduated) | $24.00 for $1–$500 of valuation; $30.00+$1.00/$100 over $500 for $501–$5,000; $69.00+$11.00/$1,000 over $2,000 for $5,001–$40,000; $487.00+$9.00/$1,000 over $40,000 for $40,001–$100,000; $1,027+$7.00/$1,000 over $100,000 for $100,001–$500,000; $3,827.00+$5.00/$1,000 over $500,000 for $500,001–$1,000,000; $6,327.00+$3.00/$1,000 over $1,000,000 for $1,000,001–$5,000,000; $18,327+$1.00/$1,000 over $5,000,000 for $5,000,001 and over | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23 — CLOSED on a live primary source: Cochise County Code §14.15 (Residential Permits), part of the county's codified Development Services Fee Schedule (effective 2022-07-01, fee figures amended by Res. 24-14 effective 2024-10-01), https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE — accessed via the Browser pane. This IS the standalone Building Permit Fee Rate Schedule referenced by the IBC §109.3 local amendment; it supersedes the 2009 Fee Ordinance No. 037-09 figures previously cited in this file. Confirmed live via the county's own FAQ 185 ('How much does a permit cost?', https://www.cochise.az.gov/Faq.aspx?QID=185), which now points applicants directly to this Chapter 14 schedule and its online fee calculators. |
| Residential Structures Valuation Rate (new one/two-family homes, additions; includes conditioned Arizona Rooms) | $91.56 per square foot | Cochise County Code §14.15, current per Res. 24-14 (effective 2024-10-01). Supersedes this file's prior $52.00/sq ft figure sourced from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09. |
| Garages, Sheds, Outbuildings, and Accessory Structures — Valuation Rate | $39.28 per square foot | Cochise County Code §14.15. Supersedes this file's prior flat-fee bands (Detached Garage $100 flat up to 1,000 sq ft; Sheds/Outbuildings $50/$100) from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09 — the current schedule values all new residential accessory structures per square foot and runs the result through the graduated rate schedule above, rather than a flat fee. |
| Basements, Decks, Patios, Porches, Carports — Valuation Rate | $15.00 per square foot | Cochise County Code §14.15. Supersedes this file's prior $50 flat fee (Carports/Porches/Decks up to 500 sq ft) from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09. |
| Residential Plan Review Fee (three submissions, up to and including four-plex) | 65% of the Building Permit Fee | Cochise County Code §14.15. Additional plan review beyond the three included submissions: $50.00/hour, 1-hour minimum. County-published worked example: a 2,000 sq ft R-3 VB-construction home at $91.56/sq ft = $184,000 valuation → $1,615 building permit fee → +65% plan review ($1,049.75) = $2,664.75 total building permit fee, before miscellaneous/septic add-ons. |
| Re-Inspection Fee | $75 | Cochise County Code §14.15, current per Res. 24-14 (2024-10-01) — unchanged from the prior 2009 Ordinance 037-09 figure. |
| Building Permit Renewal Fee | $100 | Cochise County Code §14.15, current per Res. 24-14 (2024-10-01). Supersedes this file's prior $50 figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09. |
| Utility Compliance Fee | $50 | Cochise County Code §14.15. New line item not previously captured in this file. |
| Legacy $15 Residential Permit Review Fee / $15 Revision Fee (2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09) — appears discontinued | Verified-negative: not present anywhere in the current (2026-07-23) Chapter 14 fee schedule | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23: the flat $15 Residential Permit Review Fee and $15 Revision Fee this file previously cited from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09 do not appear in the current Cochise County Code Chapter 14 Development Services Fee Schedule. The graduated Building Permit Fee Rate Schedule above (minimum $24.00 for $1–$500 valuation) appears to have absorbed/replaced this flat review fee. Kept here rather than deleted, per this database's never-delete-figures policy, even though this field itself is now closed (verified-negative). |
Commercial / Non-Residential Building Permit (New Construction, Multi-Family, Tenant Improvement)
VerifiedRequired for new non-residential structures, including multi-family buildings, tenant improvements, and remodels in unincorporated Cochise County. The Building Safety Division enforces the 2015 IBC with local amendments. All submittals are online through the Citizenserve portal.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Required for new non-residential structures (including multi-family buildings), tenant improvements, and remodels in unincorporated Cochise County
- Submit the Cochise County joint permit application online, plus an Acknowledgment of Property Ownership or Agent Authorization and a Commercial Contractor Identification Attachment
- Provide a commercial site plan meeting the county's Basic Site Plan Requirements (tax parcel ID, north arrow/scale, building footprints with height and square footage, parking, setbacks, drainage ways within 300 feet, septic/well locations, sight-distance triangles, etc.)
- Construction plans and off-site improvement plans must be stamped by a licensed Arizona engineer or architect
- Additional plans/attachments may be required depending on project scope: hazardous material attachment, commercial lighting plan, sign permit application, landscape/irrigation plans (Growth Categories A/B), floodplain use permit and elevation certificate, drainage statement/report, Sierra Vista sub-watershed water conservation attachment, antenna/tower checklist, traffic impact study, SWPPP
- Other agency review/approval may be required: Fire District, Arizona Department of Agriculture (Notice of Intent to Clear Land), ADEQ (Notice of Intent / 401 Permit), ADOT Right-of-Way/Encroachment Permit, USACOE 404 Permit
Required documents
- RequiredAcknowledgment of Property Ownership or Agent Authorization (PDF)https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12295
- RequiredCommercial Contractor Identification Attachment (PDF)https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12294
- RequiredCommercial Site PlanMeeting the county's Basic Site Plan Requirements listed on the Commercial/Non-Residential Projects page
- OptionalHazardous Material Attachment (PDF)https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12293 — required if applicable to the project
- OptionalCommercial Lighting Plan Attachment (PDF)https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12242 — required if applicable
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Change of Use (when no other permits are required) | $100 | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23: Cochise County Code §14.18 (Non-Residential Permits), current fee schedule. Supersedes this file's prior $150 'Non-Residential Uses — Change of Use' figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09. |
| Building Permit Fee Rate Schedule — valuation-based (graduated) | $24.00 for $1–$500 of valuation; $24.00+$3.00/$100 over $500 for $501–$2,000; $69.00+$11.00/$1,000 over $2,000 for $2,001–$40,000; $487.00+$9.00/$1,000 over $40,000 for $40,001–$100,000; $1,027+$7.00/$1,000 over $100,000 for $100,001–$500,000; $3,827.00+$5.00/$1,000 over $500,000 for $500,001–$1,000,000; $6,327.00+$3.00/$1,000 over $1,000,000 for $1,000,001–$5,000,000; $18,327+$1.00/$1,000 over $5,000,000 for $5,000,001 and over | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23 — CLOSED on a live primary source: Cochise County Code §14.18 (Non-Residential Permits), part of the codified Development Services Fee Schedule (effective 2022-07-01, amended by Res. 24-14 effective 2024-10-01), https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE — accessed via the Browser pane. This IS the standalone Building/Use permit fee rate table referenced by the IBC §109.3 local amendment; the table differs slightly from the residential table in the $501–$2,000 band. Per Code §14.18, new non-residential structures (other than one/two-family residential) are valued using the ICC's current published Building Valuation Data (released semi-annually) by construction type, then run through this graduated table. |
| Non-Residential Plan Review Fee (includes three reviews) | 65% of the Building Permit Fee | Cochise County Code §14.18. Additional plan review beyond the three included reviews: $50.00/hour, 1-hour minimum. County-published worked example: a 2,000 sq ft B-occupancy VB-construction office at $126.48/sq ft (ICC Building Valuation Data rate) = $252,960 valuation → $2,098 building permit fee → +65% plan review ($1,363.70) = $3,461.70 total building permit fee, before miscellaneous/septic add-ons. |
| Commercial Permit Review Fee (non-refundable, applied toward building/use permit fee) | $100 | Fee Ordinance No. 037-09 (Docket R-08-03), Exhibit A. This specific line item was not re-located as a standalone entry in the current Chapter 14 schedule during the 2026-07-23 re-chase — the schedule's own graduated table above starts at $24.00 minimum, which may have absorbed it (paralleling the confirmed disappearance of the analogous $15 residential review fee). Kept pending direct confirmation with Development Services (520-432-9300). |
| Non-Residential Uses — Accessory Structures | $100 | Fee Ordinance No. 037-09, Exhibit A. Not re-located as a standalone line item in the current Chapter 14 §14.18 schedule during the 2026-07-23 re-chase (which lists Change of Use and general valuation-based fees but not a distinct 'accessory structures' flat fee) — may now be valued through the graduated table above instead. Kept pending direct confirmation. |
| Non-Residential Uses — All Other (0–9,999 sq ft / 10,000 sq ft and greater) | $150 / $300 | Fee Ordinance No. 037-09, Exhibit A. Not re-located as a standalone line item in the current Chapter 14 §14.18 schedule during the 2026-07-23 re-chase — may now be valued through the graduated Building Permit Fee Rate Schedule above instead. Kept pending direct confirmation. |
Rural Residential Owner-Builder Permit
VerifiedA reduced-cost, reduced-inspection residential permitting option for property owners building their own homes on eligible rural parcels in unincorporated Cochise County (minimum 4-acre parcel and zoning-district minimum). Two paths: Option 1 (limited plan review and key trade inspections, may qualify for a conditioned Certificate of Occupancy) or Option 2 (no plan review, no Building Safety inspections, not eligible for a Certificate of Occupancy). Limited to once every five years per owner-builder.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Property owner (or authorized agent) must act as owner-builder, not a commercial builder
- Project must be residential, on a parcel in a zoning district with a minimum density of one dwelling per four acres (or larger) — e.g., RU-4 qualifies; RU-2 does not, even if the specific parcel exceeds 4 acres
- Choose Option 1 (full construction plan review; only Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire Prevention inspections required; may qualify for conditioned Certificate of Occupancy) or Option 2 (no plan review, no Building Safety inspections; zoning/floodplain/septic/well/other non-building approvals still apply; NOT eligible for Certificate of Occupancy)
- Septic permits are still required (septic permits expire after 2 years); right-of-way permit and floodplain use permit may also be required
- Limited to once every five years on any property owned by that individual owner-builder in unincorporated Cochise County (does not limit accessory structures or additions on the same property)
- Sign an owner/builder affidavit affirming the property is intended for the owner's sole occupancy and will not be sold or rented within one year of completion, per A.R.S. §32-1121.A.5
Required documents
- RequiredOwner-Builder Amendment Application (Citizenserve portal)Select Residential Permit, Single-Family Residence subtype; indicate limited or no-construction-inspections option, square footage, height, and estimated project value
- RequiredOwner-Builder Disclosure FormsRequired certification/signature acknowledging code-compliance responsibility and that construction cannot begin until the permit is issued
- RequiredSite Plan and Floor PlanRequired for both Option 1 and Option 2 applications
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Inspection with Plan Review Option — Single-Family Dwelling | $825 (includes plan review) | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23 — CLOSED on a live primary source: Cochise County Code §14.09 (Rural Residential Owner/Builder), part of the codified Development Services Fee Schedule (effective 2022-07-01, amended by Res. 24-14 effective 2024-10-01), https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE — accessed via the Browser pane. This resolves the prior gap: the $825 figure now bundles plan review into a single flat fee, with no separate unquantified 'plan review fee' add-on. Supersedes this file's prior $325-plus-unquantified-plan-review figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09. Residential Accessory Buildings: $200 flat (single tier, supersedes the prior $50/$100 sq-ft-tiered figures). |
| No Inspection – No Plan Review Option — Single-Family Dwelling (includes one residential accessory structure) | $350 | Cochise County Code §14.09, current per Res. 24-14 (effective 2024-10-01). Supersedes this file's prior $75 figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09; now bundles one residential accessory structure into the flat fee. Additional Residential Accessory Buildings: $147 flat (single tier, supersedes the prior $25/$35 value-tiered figures). |
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Permit
Required for construction of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on a parcel with an existing single-family home in unincorporated Cochise County. Requires written Planning Division review and approval BEFORE a residential building permit may be applied for. ADUs are limited to 75% of the principal dwelling's gross square footage or 1,000 sq ft, whichever is less.
Reviewed 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Property must have an existing single-family home; the property owner must occupy either the primary dwelling or the ADU as their primary residence
- ADU must be equal to or lesser in height than the principal dwelling, and limited to 75% of the principal dwelling's gross (heated/cooled) square footage or 1,000 sq ft, whichever is less
- ADUs permitted as an accessory use on any parcel where a single-family dwelling is allowed — at least one attached and one detached ADU per parcel; on lots one acre or larger, one additional detached ADU is permitted (except near airport high-noise/accident-potential zones)
- ADU cannot be subdivided or segregated in ownership from the principal dwelling
- Recreational vehicles, railroad cars, and camper shells are NOT permitted as an ADU in any zoning district; park model trailers ARE permitted per A.R.S. §11-820.03 on parcels zoned one dwelling unit per 3+ acres, on a semi-permanent/permanent foundation
- Manufactured homes/rehabilitated mobile homes permitted as an ADU only in zoning districts where they are otherwise a permitted use
- Special Use Authorization required for commercial use of an ADU; a Variance is required for any deviation from ADU development standards
- Complete the ADU application and submit online through the Cochise County permitting portal under 'Apply for a P&Z project' before applying for the residential building permit
Required documents
- RequiredAccessory Dwelling Unit Application (PDF)https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/23752/Accessory-Dwelling-Unit-Permit
- RequiredSite Plan showing ADU development-standard complianceRequired as part of the ADU application submittal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accessory Living Quarters (ADU) planning review/processing fee | $100 | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23 — CLOSED on a live primary source, via the Browser pane (resolving the prior JS-rendered-viewer blocker): Cochise County Code §14.23 (Planning, 'Other Fees'), part of the codified Development Services Fee Schedule (effective 2022-07-01), https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE, lists 'Accessory Living Quarters: $100'. The county's own ADU page (cochise.az.gov/237/Accessory-Dwelling-Units) uses 'accessory living quarter' interchangeably with ADU in describing its own application process ('Once approved for an accessory living quarter by the Planning Division...'), and the county's separate Accessory Living Quarter Application PDF (https://www.cochise.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/186/Accessory-Living-Quarter-Application-PDF) confirms ALQ is the county's governing application name for this same permit — this $100 fee is the correct, current, citable figure. |
Trade Permit (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire — Residential & Commercial)
Flat-rate trade permits for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and minor fire-related work not covered by the residential/commercial building permit's valuation-based fee, in unincorporated Cochise County. Covers service entries, fireplaces, and miscellaneous mechanical/plumbing/electrical/fire work.
Reviewed 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Apply online through the Cochise County Permitting Portal for the applicable trade permit type
- Building-code exemptions apply to certain minor like-for-like repairs and replacements (see Permit Exemptions: Electrical, Gas, Mechanical, and Plumbing tabs) — confirm exemption eligibility before assuming a permit is required
- Licensed-contractor information required when work is performed by a contractor rather than the owner
Required documents
- RequiredTrade Permit Application (Citizenserve portal)Submitted online through the Cochise County Permitting Portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Service Entry (Electrical) — Residential | $124 | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23 — CLOSED on a live primary source: Cochise County Code §14.15 (Residential Permits, 'Trade Permits and Flat Rate Fees'), part of the codified Development Services Fee Schedule (effective 2022-07-01, amended by Res. 24-14 effective 2024-10-01), https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE — accessed via the Browser pane. Supersedes this file's prior $50 figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09. Non-residential/commercial Service Entry is billed 'Per Construction Value' instead of a flat fee, per Code §14.18. |
| New/Upgrade Water Heater — Residential | $50 | Cochise County Code §14.15. New line item not previously captured in this file. |
| Cooler, Furnace, and Air Conditioner Involving Utility Change — Residential | $124 | Cochise County Code §14.15. New line item not previously captured in this file. |
| Miscellaneous Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical — Residential | $124 | Cochise County Code §14.15. Supersedes this file's prior $50 'Misc. Mechanical, Plumbing, Electrical & Fire' figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09. Non-residential/commercial Misc. Mechanical/Plumbing/Electrical is billed 'Per Construction Value' instead of a flat fee, per Code §14.18. |
| Walls and Fences over 7' high, Retaining Walls over 4' high — Residential | $124 | Cochise County Code §14.15. Height measured from the footing; walls exempt up to 7' high (3' high on a corner lot, informational permit required above that). |
| Swimming Pool and/or Spa (includes barrier) — Residential | Per Construction Value ($750 maximum) | Cochise County Code §14.15. Supersedes this file's prior flat $100 (pool) / $50 (spa) figures from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09 — pools/spas are now valuation-based, capped at $750. |
| Fireplace — Residential | Per Construction Value | Cochise County Code §14.15. Supersedes this file's prior flat $50 figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09 — now valuation-based, with no published flat rate or cap. |
| Fire Sprinkler and Fire Alarms — Residential | Per Construction Value | Cochise County Code §14.15. New line item not previously captured in this file. |
Manufactured / Mobile Home Installation Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of a manufactured home, mobile home, or factory-built building in unincorporated Cochise County, including the county's Rehabilitated Mobile Home Certification program.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Apply online through the Cochise County Permitting Portal for a Manufactured/Mobile Home Installation Permit or Factory-Built Building Installation Permit as applicable
- Rehabilitated mobile homes require separate certification through the county's Rehabilitated Mobile Home program
- State of Arizona Manufactured Home and Factory-Built Building program requirements apply in addition to county permitting
Required documents
- RequiredManufactured/Mobile Home Installation Permit Application (Citizenserve portal)Submitted online through the Cochise County Permitting Portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile/Manufactured (MFG) Home Installation Permit — IGA fee, Arizona Dept. of Housing table; includes 3 inspections | $700 each | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23 — CLOSED on a live primary source: Cochise County Code §14.12 (AZ Department of Housing — Manufactured Homes and Factory-Built Building), part of the codified Development Services Fee Schedule, billed per the ADOH Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) Fee Schedule for FY2026 (amended 2025-08-05), https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE — accessed via the Browser pane. Supersedes this file's prior $120/2-inspection figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09; the fee is now set by the state ADOH IGA table (3 inspections included) rather than a county-set flat fee. |
| Factory-Built Building Installation Permit — Residential | $650 per story | Cochise County Code §14.12, ADOH IGA Fee Schedule (amended 2025-08-05). Supersedes this file's prior $400 flat figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09; now billed per story, includes 3 inspections. |
| Factory-Built Building Installation Permit — Non-Residential | $7.00 per linear foot, per story | Cochise County Code §14.12, ADOH IGA Fee Schedule. New line item not previously captured in this file. |
| Factory-Built Building Installation Permit — Classroom | $4.00 per linear foot, per story | Cochise County Code §14.12, ADOH IGA Fee Schedule. New line item not previously captured in this file. |
| Re-Inspection Fee (Manufactured/Mobile Home/Factory-Built Building) | $185 | Cochise County Code §14.12, ADOH IGA Fee Schedule. Supersedes this file's prior $80 figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09. |
| 6-Month Extension on Permit (Manufactured/Mobile Home/Factory-Built Building) | $150 | Cochise County Code §14.12. New line item not previously captured in this file. |
| Mobile/Manufactured Home Surcharge | $220 | Cochise County Code §14.12. New line item not previously captured in this file; the code excerpt itself does not detail when this surcharge applies (e.g. late/unpermitted installation) — confirm with Development Services (520-432-9300). |
| Rehabilitated Mobile Home Certification Fee | No standalone county certification fee found in the current (2026-07-23) fee schedule — appears superseded/discontinued | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23 (verified-negative, with residual uncertainty flagged): the $180 flat certification fee this file previously cited from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09 does NOT appear anywhere in the current Cochise County Code §14.12 fee table (checked live via the Browser pane). Per Arizona Department of Housing rule R4-34-606 (https://housing.az.gov/sites/default/files/Rehab-General-Information.pdf), rehabilitation of mobile homes is administered as a STATE (ADOH) permitting/inspection/certification process, not a distinct county fee line item; a dedicated county 'Rehabilitated Mobile Home' program page could not be re-located on cochise.az.gov during this pass (the prior page reference in this file no longer resolves to that content). A rehabilitated mobile home installed in unincorporated Cochise County would still be billed the standard $700 Mobile/Manufactured Home Installation Permit fee above (and possibly the $220 Mobile/Manufactured Home Surcharge) — confirm directly with Development Services (520-432-9300) whether any separate county certification charge still applies. |
Solar Energy System Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of rooftop or ground/pole-mount solar photovoltaic systems in unincorporated Cochise County. Zoning Ordinance 09-04 (Docket R-09-04, adopted 2009-09-22) established 'Solar Energy Systems' as a PERMITTED ACCESSORY USE in every residential zoning district (R, SM, SR, MR) — no special-use zoning approval is needed for a residential-scale system, only a building permit. Per Arizona's statewide solar-permitting statute (A.R.S. § 11-323), any county fee for a solar construction permit must be attributable to and not exceed the actual cost of issuing the permit, and A.R.S. §§ 9-468/11-323 as amended by HB2301 required counties to adopt an Instant Permitting Process for Home Power Installations on or before January 1, 2026 — Cochise County's specific compliance/implementation status (e.g. SolarAPP+ adoption) was not confirmed on the County's own site in this session.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for all Solar Energy Systems, per Cochise County Zoning Regulations § 1823.07(A) — 'Permits for Solar Energy Systems may be expedited; however, due to rapidly changing technologies that may be unfamiliar, longer review times may be necessary'
- Solar panels under 6 square feet are exempt from the 'Solar Energy System' definition entirely (e.g., solar-powered driveway lights, parking meters, lighted signs), per § 1823.01
- Permitted as an Accessory Use on all parcels regardless of size in every zoning district except PD (Planned Development), where it is a Permitted Use, per §§ 1823.02-1823.03
- Exempt from zoning height limits per § 1823.04 (citing § 2002.03, Height Exceptions)
- Setbacks from property boundaries and road travelways must comply with the underlying zoning district's minimum setback OR equal the height of the tallest structure associated with the system, whichever is greater, per § 1823.05
- Must comply with the prescriptive requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC); the Building Official may require additional engineering for rooftop PV panels, per § 1823.07(B)
- If grid-connected, an approved interconnection agreement with the power company and proof of construction by a licensed contractor is required before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued, per § 1823.07(C)
- Per A.R.S. § 11-323, any county permit fee for solar construction must be attributable to and not exceed the actual cost of issuing the permit, and the County must provide a written itemized cost list upon request; the County may not require a professional engineer's stamp unless deemed necessary
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Citizenserve portal)Standard County building permit application for the solar installation
- OptionalInterconnection Agreement with Power CompanyRequired before Certificate of Occupancy for grid-connected systems, per § 1823.07(C)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solar/PV Systems and Wind Turbines — Residential (flat-rate trade permit) | $124 | RE-CHASED 2026-07-23 — CLOSED on a live primary source: Cochise County Code §14.15 (Residential Permits, 'Trade Permits and Flat Rate Fees'), part of the codified Development Services Fee Schedule (effective 2022-07-01, amended by Res. 24-14 effective 2024-10-01), https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE — accessed via the Browser pane. Resolves the prior gap: residential-scale solar/PV and wind-turbine installations are billed this flat $124 trade-permit fee rather than the graduated valuation-based Building Permit Fee Rate Schedule used for structures. Supersedes this file's prior $15 Residential Permit Review Fee figure from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09, which is superseded county-wide by the current Chapter 14 schedule (confirmed live via the county's FAQ 185 'How much does a permit cost?', https://www.cochise.az.gov/Faq.aspx?QID=185, which now points directly to this Chapter 14 schedule). |
| Solar/PV Systems — Non-Residential/Commercial | At County Cost (consulting fees may apply) | Cochise County Code §14.18 (Non-Residential Permits, Trade Permits). Distinct from the flat $124 residential rate — commercial-scale solar is billed at the County's actual cost, with outside consulting fees passed through where applicable. |
EV Charger / EVSE Permit
VerifiedCochise County has no dedicated EV-charger/EVSE permit type or fee line item. Installing a Level 2 or DC fast EV charger's dedicated circuit is administered as a Trade Permit (electrical) under the county's flat-rate trade permit schedule — the same schedule used for a service entry or other miscellaneous electrical work — since it is electrical work under NFPA 70 (2014 NEC edition, as adopted by the county). CORRECTED 2026-07-23: the county's fee mechanism has changed since the 2026-07-20 pass — the governing schedule is now Cochise County Code Chapter 14 (Development Services Fee Schedule, effective 2022-07-01, amended by Res. 24-14 effective 2024-10-01), https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE, discovered live via the Browser pane during a same-session chase of a sibling permit type in this file. It supersedes the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09 previously cited here. No EV-specific line item exists in the current schedule either, but the (now $124, not $50) flat-rate Miscellaneous Mechanical/Plumbing/Electrical trade permit fee remains a genuine, citable, currently-applicable governing figure — this entry stays verified with corrected figures.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Trade Permit (Electrical) required for the EV charger circuit — apply online through the Cochise County Permitting Portal (Citizenserve)
- If the installation requires a new or upgraded electrical service entry (e.g., a panel upgrade to support the charger load), it is billed as a Service Entry trade permit rather than the Misc. Electrical flat fee
- Installation must comply with NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), 2014 Edition, as adopted by Cochise County
- Licensed-contractor information required when the work is performed by a contractor rather than the property owner
Required documents
- RequiredTrade Permit Application (Citizenserve portal)Submitted online through the Cochise County Permitting Portal for the electrical trade permit covering the EV charger circuit
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Miscellaneous Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical — Residential (closest matching flat-rate trade permit — no distinct EV charger line exists) | $124 | CORRECTED 2026-07-23: this file's prior $50 figure was sourced from the 2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09, superseded by the county's current codified fee schedule, Cochise County Code §14.15 (Residential Permits, 'Trade Permits and Flat Rate Fees'), effective 2022-07-01 and amended by Res. 24-14 effective 2024-10-01, https://cochisecounty.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=14_DEVELOPMENT_SERVICES_FEE_SCHEDULE — discovered live via the Browser pane during a same-session chase of a sibling permit type in this file. Re-checked the current schedule specifically for 'EV', 'electric vehicle', or 'EVSE' language — none exists; a standalone EV charger circuit (not requiring a new service entry) still most closely matches this general miscellaneous-electrical flat-rate line item, now $124. |
| Service Entry (Electrical) — Residential, if the charger requires a new/upgraded service | $124 | CORRECTED 2026-07-23: supersedes this file's prior $50 figure (2009 Fee Ordinance 037-09) — see Cochise County Code §14.15, same source as above. Applies instead of the Misc. Electrical fee if the EV charger installation includes a new or upgraded electrical service entry rather than just a new branch circuit. |
Sources & verification
Key facts verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-23.
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Unincorporated Cochise County building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.