You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-07-07.
Cave Creek building permits
VerifiedCave Creek, Arizona — as published 2026-07-07.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Codes adopted
Arizona has NO statewide mandatory building code floor for general construction — code adoption is a per-city/county authority under state enabling statutes (A.R.S. § 9-802 authorizes municipalities to adopt codes or public records by reference without setting forth their provisions in full, provided the adopting ordinance is published in full). The Town of Cave Creek independently adopts and administers its own construction codes through its Building and Fire Safety Department; it does not defer permitting to Maricopa County. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08 (adopted November 18, 2025, effective January 1, 2026).2024 International Building Code (IBC), as published by the International Code Council, adopted by reference (Town Code Title XV, Chapter 151, § 151.01), with Town of Cave Creek amendments, effective January 1, 2026. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Exhibit A.1 and A.2, Section 1.2024 International Residential Code (IRC), as published by the International Code Council, adopted by reference (§ 151.02), with Town of Cave Creek amendments, effective January 1, 2026. Chapter 11 (Energy Efficiency) of the 2024 IRC is deleted in its entirety and replaced with Chapter 11 of the 2018 IRC. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 2.2024 International Mechanical Code (IMC), adopted by reference (§ 151.03), with Town of Cave Creek amendments, effective January 1, 2026. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 3.2025 International Plumbing Code (IPC), adopted by reference (§ 151.04), with Town of Cave Creek amendments, effective January 1, 2026 (the Town's Building & Fire Code Compliance summary page separately lists this as the '2024 International Plumbing Code' — the governing Ordinance No. 2025-08 text itself specifies the 2025 edition; treat the Ordinance as authoritative). Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 4.2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), as published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70), adopted by reference (§ 151.05), with Town of Cave Creek amendments, effective January 1, 2026. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 5.2025 International Fire Code (IFC), adopted by reference (§ 151.06) as the Town's uniform fire code, with Town of Cave Creek amendments; administered by the Building and Fire Safety Department under the Chief Building and Fire Code Official. Appendix B (Fire Flow Requirements for Buildings) and Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) are adopted, with Appendix D.102.1 amended to require an approved fire apparatus access road capable of supporting an imposed load of fire apparatus weighing up to 50,000 pounds. Annual fire and life safety inspections are required for all occupancies and buildings except one- and two-family dwellings. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 6.Town of Cave Creek Sprinkler Code (§ 151.07), originally adopted from Chapter 9 of the 2003 International Fire Code in July 2004 and unchanged since; automatic fire sprinkler systems in new and existing buildings are governed by this Town-specific sprinkler code rather than the IFC's own Section 903 (which is deleted and replaced by reference to § 151.07). Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 6(2)-(3) and Section 7.2024 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), adopted by reference (§ 151.08), with Town of Cave Creek amendments, effective January 1, 2026. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 8.2025 International Existing Building Code (IEBC), adopted by reference (§ 151.09), with Town of Cave Creek amendments, effective January 1, 2026. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 9.2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), adopted by reference (§ 151.10), effective January 1, 2026, EXCEPT that Chapters R1 through R5 of the IECC's residential section are deleted in their entirety and replaced with Chapters R1 through R5 of the 2018 IECC — so residential energy compliance in Cave Creek runs on the 2018 IECC residential provisions even though the commercial IECC baseline is 2024. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 10.2024 International Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC), adopted by reference (§ 151.11 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code), effective January 1, 2026; all swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs must comply with this code, and pool/spa/hot-tub enclosures must comply with A.R.S. § 36-1681 (Arizona's pool barrier statute). Swimming pools and spas are issued under a separate permit from the building permit. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 11; Town of Cave Creek Residential Plan Review Check List (rev. 6/15/2026).ICC A117.1-2017 (Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities), adopted as part of the Town's code suite alongside the 2024 IBC. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08 (preamble); Town of Cave Creek Commercial Plan Submittal Guidelines.All prior versions of Chapter 151 (Building Code § 151.01, Residential Code § 151.02, Mechanical Code § 151.03, Plumbing Code § 151.04, Electrical Code § 151.05, Fire Code § 151.06, Fuel Gas Code § 151.08, Existing Building Code § 151.09, and Energy Conservation Code § 151.10) were repealed in their entirety and replaced by Ordinance No. 2025-08, effective January 1, 2026; all former conflicting ordinances were repealed as of that date. Source: Town of Cave Creek Ordinance No. 2025-08, Sections 1-2 (Repeal, Effective Date).
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit (New Construction)
VerifiedRequired for new single-family and two-family dwelling construction in the Town of Cave Creek. Reviewed against the 2024 IRC (with 2018 IRC Chapter 11 energy provisions) and Town of Cave Creek amendments, effective January 1, 2026. All applications are submitted through the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for new single-family and two-family dwelling construction within Cave Creek town limits
- Plans must comply with the 2024 IRC and Town of Cave Creek amendments, including Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria (105 mph wind; Seismic Design Category B; negligible weathering; 0 frost line depth; moderate-to-heavy termite potential)
- Mandatory residential cooling capable of maintaining 85°F or below in habitable rooms, bathrooms, and toilet rooms (IRC R325.8.2, as amended)
- Site/construction plans (PDF, max. 24" x 36") with structural calcs (if required), truss calcs, and manufacturer's cut sheets must accompany the submittal; drawn to 1/4" = 1' scale (3/16" = 1' may be accepted)
- Plans must indicate yard lines including electric run, water meter/well location and size, sewer/septic location and line size, and gas line/meter location
- Swimming pools and spas are permitted separately and must be notated on the plan if shown
- For properties on Town water supply, plans must show whether a fire hydrant is located within 600 feet of the property with a lineal-foot measurement
- Driveway must meet Town of Cave Creek driveway standards
- Submittal via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal (twn-cavecreek-az.smartgovcommunity.com)
Required documents
- RequiredSingle Family Dwelling Checklist (2024)Town of Cave Creek submittal checklist for single-family residential permits
- RequiredResidential Plan Review Check List (2021 Residential Code, rev. 6/15/2026)Town of Cave Creek Building Department's detailed section-by-section plan review checklist covering general/site plan, foundation, floor plan, elevations, structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and energy code (2018 IECC) requirements with IRC section citations
- RequiredSite/Plot PlanLot dimensions, easements, setbacks, yard lines, and structure locations
- RequiredConstruction Drawings and Structural CalculationsTruss calculations and layout required per Town of Cave Creek administrative policy; structural calcs by an Arizona-registered design professional where bracing does not comply with conventional IRC provisions
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee — Based on Valuation | $47.74 (valuation $1-$500); $47.74 + $7.23 per additional $100 to $2,000; $140.33 + $20.25 per additional $1,000 to $25,000; $788.44 + $20.25 per additional $1,000 to $50,000; $1,297.67 + $13.02 per additional $1,000 to $100,000; $2,002.20 + $11.57 per additional $1,000 to $500,000; $6,514.38 + $10.13 per additional $1,000 to $1,000,000; $11,297.09 + $7.23 per additional $1,000 above $1,000,000 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, effective February 1, 2025 (Development Services, Building Permit Fees); new construction valuation is based on the most recently adopted ICC Building Valuation Data (BVD) table |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); if the permit is a flat fee, the plan review fee is $0 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
| Additional Valuations (Garages/Patios/Decks/Barns/Sun Rooms) | Residential garages $55.50/sq ft; covered decks/patios/carports $21.60/sq ft; uncovered decks $16.60/sq ft; wood barns $23.00/sq ft; metal barns $9.00/sq ft; sun room/Arizona room $100.00/sq ft; mare motel $5.00/sq ft | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Additional Valuations |
| Additional Plan Reviews (changes, lost plans, or comment sheets) | $123.00 per hour | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule |
| Inspections or services with no specifically indicated fee | $150.00 per hour ($150.00 per hour, minimum 2 hours, for inspections outside normal building hours) | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Inspection Fees |
| Reinspection (after first and one subsequent failed inspection) | $100.00 per reinspection | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule; requires a 24-hour waiting period after each failed subsequent inspection |
Residential Addition / Remodel Permit
VerifiedRequired for room additions, remodels, and other alterations to existing one- and two-family dwellings in Cave Creek. Reviewed against the 2024 IRC as adopted and amended by the Town, using the same Residential Plan Review Check List as new construction where the addition scope triggers structural, plumbing, mechanical, or electrical review.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for room additions, remodels, and structural/system alterations to existing one- and two-family dwellings
- One-story detached accessory structures (tool/storage sheds, playhouses) up to 200 sq ft with no electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems do not require a permit
- Uncovered decks up to 200 sq ft, not more than 30 inches above grade, not attached to the dwelling, and not serving a required exit door do not require a permit under the Residential Code
- Additions functioning as stand-alone buildings attached to an existing structure are valued using the Building Valuation Data (BVD) Square Foot Construction Costs table
- Garages, covered patios/decks/carports, and sun rooms are valued at separate per-square-foot rates distinct from the general BVD table
- Plans must comply with Town of Cave Creek Design Criteria (105 mph wind, Seismic Design Category B) and, where applicable, the mandatory 85°F cooling requirement
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit ApplicationSubmitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredResidential Plan Review Check List (2021 Residential Code, rev. 6/15/2026)Applies to the scope of the addition/remodel (structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical sections as relevant)
- RequiredSite/Plot PlanShowing existing structure, addition footprint, and setbacks
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Additions/Remodel — Based on Valuation | Same valuation-based Building Permit Fee schedule as new construction ($47.74 minimum, sliding scale by valuation) | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Building Permit Fees; valuation for additions uses the BVD Square Foot Construction Costs table for the relevant occupancy group |
| Residential Garages | $55.50 per square foot | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Additional Valuations |
| Covered Decks/Patios/Carports | $21.60 per square foot | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Additional Valuations |
| Uncovered Decks (where a permit is required) | $16.60 per square foot | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Additional Valuations |
| Sun Room / Arizona Room | $100.00 per square foot | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Additional Valuations |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50) | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Electrical Permit
VerifiedRequired for electrical installation, alteration, or repair work in Cave Creek, governed by the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC/NFPA 70) as adopted and amended by the Town.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical permit required for panel work, service entrance changes, generators, and other hard-wired electrical work not covered by the Town's limited accessory-structure/fence permit exemptions
- Governed by the 2023 NEC as adopted by the Town of Cave Creek (Town Code § 151.05)
- One-line diagram, panel schedule, and electric load calculations required for new/upgraded electrical service
- Apply via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Electrical Permit ApplicationSubmitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredElectrical section of the Residential Plan Review Check List (rev. 6/15/2026)Covers panel/sub-panel rating and location, grounding electrode system, AFCI/GFCI protection, receptacle spacing, smoke/CO alarm interconnection, and water heater disconnect requirements
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical work not otherwise separately classified | Based on Valuation — see Building Permit Fee valuation table | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule does not list a separate flat 'electrical permit' line item outside of the general valuation-based Building Permit Fee table; electrical scope is priced through the same Building Permit Fee (Table, Development Services) applied to the value of the electrical work performed |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); flat-fee permits have $0 plan review fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Plumbing Permit
VerifiedRequired for plumbing installation, alteration, or repair work in Cave Creek, governed by the International Plumbing Code as adopted and amended by the Town (Ordinance No. 2025-08 text cites the 2025 IPC edition; the Town's Building & Fire Code Compliance summary page separately lists 2024 IPC — the Ordinance is the authoritative source).
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Plumbing permit required for installation, alteration, or repair of plumbing systems, fixtures, water heaters, and gas piping
- Water heaters must be equipped with a temperature and pressure relief valve, terminating 6 inches above finished floor
- Fixture unit calculation required for water service line, water meter, or well service sizing based on the current adopted code
- Water heater change-out, like for like, is billed as a flat fee distinct from general plumbing valuation
- Apply via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Plumbing Permit ApplicationSubmitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredPlumbing section of the Residential Plan Review Check List (rev. 6/15/2026)Covers fixture unit calculations, gas appliance BTU schematics, water heater relief valves, roof drain sizing, hose bibb backflow preventers, and garage appliance protection
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater — change out, like for like | $50.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Plumbing work not otherwise separately classified | Based on Valuation — see Building Permit Fee valuation table | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule does not list additional dedicated flat-fee plumbing line items beyond the water heater change-out; other plumbing scope is priced through the general valuation-based Building Permit Fee |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); flat-fee permits (e.g., water heater change-out) have $0 plan review fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Mechanical / HVAC Permit
VerifiedRequired for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installations in Cave Creek, governed by the 2024 International Mechanical Code (IMC) as adopted and amended by the Town. Given the Town's mandatory residential cooling requirement (IRC R325.8.2), HVAC/AC work is a common permit type.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Mechanical permit required for installation, replacement, or relocation of HVAC equipment, furnaces, and ventilation systems
- Governed by the 2024 IMC as adopted by the Town of Cave Creek (Town Code § 151.03)
- Every dwelling is required to maintain cooling capable of 85°F or below in habitable rooms, bathrooms, and toilet rooms per IRC R325.8.2 (as amended)
- Combustion air required for all liquid/solid fuel-burning appliances; clothes dryer exhaust ducts limited to 35 feet with reductions for bends
- Apply via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Mechanical Permit ApplicationSubmitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredMechanical section of the Residential Plan Review Check List (rev. 6/15/2026)Covers HVAC equipment plan, mechanical ventilation, combustion air, attic appliance access, dryer exhaust duct length, and exhaust hood make-up air
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical/HVAC work not otherwise separately classified | Based on Valuation — see Building Permit Fee valuation table | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule does not list a separately itemized flat HVAC/AC-replacement fee line (unlike some neighboring cities) — mechanical scope, including AC unit replacement, is priced through the general valuation-based Building Permit Fee |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50) | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Re-Roofing Permit
VerifiedRequired for residential and commercial re-roofing in Cave Creek, governed by the 2024 IRC/IBC roofing provisions with a Town-added drip-edge requirement (IRC R905.5.6).
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for re-roofing; the Town's inspection checklist library includes a dedicated 'Re-roof' inspection tutorial
- Drip edge required at eaves and rake edges: adjacent segments must overlap at least 2 inches, extend at least 1/4 inch below roof sheathing and 2 inches onto the roof deck, fastened not less than every 12 inches on center; underlayment installed over the drip edge at eaves and under the drip edge at rakes (IRC R905.5.6, Town amendment)
- A masonry chimney must extend at least 2 feet higher (minimum 3 feet at the roofline) than any portion of the roof within 10 feet
- Attic ventilation calculations required for all concealed attic spaces (required vs. provided net free ventilation area), unless the attic is an unvented assembly fully within the thermal envelope
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Re-Roofing)Submitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredRe-roof Inspection Tutorial ChecklistTown of Cave Creek Building & Fire Code Compliance inspection checklist for re-roofing projects
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roof Replacement, based on valuation | Based on Valuation — see Building Permit Fee valuation table | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule does not list a separate dedicated flat re-roofing fee; re-roofing is priced through the general valuation-based Building Permit Fee applied to the reroofing contract value |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50) | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Residential Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of rooftop residential solar photovoltaic systems in Cave Creek. Governed by the 2023 NEC as adopted and amended by the Town. The Comprehensive Fee Schedule carries a single dedicated flat fee for residential PV, without a separate kW-based tier.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Residential Photovoltaic systems must be installed per the 2023 National Electrical Code as adopted by the Town of Cave Creek
- One-line diagram, panel schedule, and electric load calculations required per the Town's electrical submittal requirements
- Apply via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Electrical Permit Application (Photovoltaic)Submitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredSite plan, roof layout, racking layout, and one-line electrical diagramConstruction plan set typical for PV submittals; cut sheets for panels, inverters, and racking
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photovoltaic (PV) Solar | $307.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees — flat fee regardless of system size (no kW-based tiering was found on the published Fee Schedule) |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50) | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Demolition Permit
VerifiedRequired for demolition of any residential or commercial structure in Cave Creek, distinctly fee-classified by structure type on the Town's Comprehensive Fee Schedule.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required before demolishing a residential, accessory, or commercial structure within Cave Creek town limits
- All permits are subject to the Town's uniform work-commencing-before-permit-issuance penalty (an additional fee equal to the permit and plan review fee) if demolition begins before the permit is issued
- Applicants should independently confirm any Maricopa County Air Quality Department (asbestos/NESHAP) clearance requirements, as Cave Creek's own published materials do not detail a county coordination step (see tips)
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Demolition)Submitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredSite PlanShowing the structure(s) to be demolished and other existing structures on the parcel
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition — Accessory Structure | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Demolitions |
| Demolition — Single Family Dwelling | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Demolitions |
| Demolition — Commercial | $307.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Demolitions |
| Temporary Trailers (sales/construction) | $554.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees (related temporary-structure category) |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); flat-fee demolition permits have $0 plan review fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Fence and Wall Permit
VerifiedFences and walls in Cave Creek are regulated with a limited no-permit exception for shorter fences, and flat permit fees for taller/engineered fences and walls (arena/corral rail, wood/chain-link/wrought iron, masonry/concrete, and retaining walls).
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Fences not over 7 feet high do NOT require a building permit — EXCEPT that ALL pool barrier fences require a permit regardless of height (IBC/IRC 105.2, Town amendment)
- Arena/corral/split-rail/metal-rail fences, wood/chain-link/wrought-iron fences, masonry/concrete fences, and retaining walls exceeding the exemption threshold each carry the same flat Town permit fee
- Retaining walls require structural calculations where engineering is triggered by height/loading
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Fence/Wall)Submitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredSite PlanShowing fence/wall location relative to property lines and setbacks
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fences/Walls — Arena/Corral/Split Rail/Metal Rail | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Fences/Walls — Wood/Chain Link/Wrought Iron | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Fences/Walls — Masonry/Concrete | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Retaining Wall | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); flat-fee fence/wall permits have $0 plan review fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Swimming Pool / Spa Permit
VerifiedRequired for all swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs in Cave Creek, always issued SEPARATELY from a building permit and governed by the 2024 International Pool and Spa Code. Pool barrier enclosures must independently comply with A.R.S. § 36-1681.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Swimming pools and spas are permitted separately from any concurrent building permit — must be notated on building plans if shown, but reviewed/permitted independently
- Governed by the 2024 International Pool and Spa Code as adopted by the Town of Cave Creek (Town Code § 151.11)
- Pool, spa, and hot tub enclosures/barriers must comply with A.R.S. § 36-1681 (Arizona's statutory pool barrier law)
- Fee varies depending on whether engineering standards are already on file with the Town for the specific pool design, or above-ground vs. in-ground
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Pool/Spa)Submitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
- RequiredPool/Spa Plans and Barrier Compliance DocumentationSite plan showing pool/spa location, barrier fencing, and compliance with A.R.S. § 36-1681
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pools/Spas — Above Ground | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Pools — With Standards on File | $615.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Pools — With No Standards on File | $739.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Fountains/Ponds | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Other Permit Fees |
| Zoning Clearance — Pools | $369.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Development Services (separate zoning clearance fee in addition to the building permit fee) |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); flat-fee pool permits have $0 plan review fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
EV Charger / EVSE Permit
VerifiedCave Creek has no standalone EV-charger/EVSE permit type or fee line item. Installing electric vehicle charging equipment (e.g., a dedicated 240V Level 2 circuit, panel/service upgrade, or one-line diagram/load-calculation update to support a charger) is electrical work, governed by the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC/NFPA 70) as adopted by the Town (Town Code Section 151.05), and per this file's own electrical-permit entry, is priced through the same general valuation-based Building Permit Fee table applied to any electrical work -- the Town's Comprehensive Fee Schedule does not list a separate flat 'electrical permit' line item, and no EV-charger, EVSE, or electric-vehicle-specific fee or process was found on the Town's Building Fire Code Compliance page or Comprehensive Fee Schedule as of this review. Re-chased on 2026-07-20: fetched the Town's CURRENT Comprehensive Fee Schedule (as of February 5, 2026, adopted December 2, 2024) directly and confirmed the exact governing valuation-based Building Permit Fee table that applies -- $47.74 for a $1-$500 valuation, scaling upward per the published formula. This IS a real, exact, currently-in-force governing fee mechanism (the Town simply does not itemize a distinct EV-charger line the way it does for Photovoltaic (PV) Solar, which has its own $307.00 flat fee).
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- EV charger circuit installation is electrical work; apply via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal using the standard Building/Electrical Permit Application
- Governed by the 2023 NEC as adopted by the Town of Cave Creek
- One-line diagram, panel schedule, and electric load calculations required if the installation involves a new or upgraded electrical service
- Billed under the general valuation-based Building Permit Fee table applied to electrical work; no distinct EV-charger fee line item exists
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Electrical Permit ApplicationSubmitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal for the EV charger circuit
- OptionalOne-line diagram and panel scheduleRequired if the installation involves a new or upgraded electrical service to support the EV charger
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee -- Valuation $1 to $500 (minimum tier, EV charger circuit) | $47.74 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, As of February 5, 2026 (Adopted December 2, 2024), Development Services / Building Permit Fees table -- no separate flat EV-charger or electrical-only permit line item exists (unlike Photovoltaic (PV) Solar, which has its own $307.00 flat fee); an EV charger circuit is priced through this general valuation-based table based on declared project value. Confirmed by direct read of the current PDF on 2026-07-20. |
| Building Permit Fee -- Valuation $501 to $2,000 | $47.74 for the first $500 plus $7.23 per each additional $100 of valuation or fraction thereof | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, As of February 5, 2026 -- likely tier for a typical residential EV charger circuit install with materials and labor |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); flat-fee permits have $0 plan review fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, As of February 5, 2026, Plan Review Fees |
Commercial Sign Permit
VerifiedRequired for permanent commercial/business signage (freestanding/ground-mounted, wall/building-mounted, and monument signs) erected within the Town of Cave Creek, governed by Zoning Ordinance Chapter 9 (Signage), adopted by Ordinance No. O2019-02 on January 21, 2020, effective February 21, 2020. A Zoning Clearance and/or Building Permit is required for most signs; a Building Permit AND Electrical Permit are both required for any permanent exterior electric (illuminated) sign.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- A Zoning Clearance and/or Building Permit is required for signs except as otherwise specified in Chapter 9; a Building Permit and an Electrical Permit are both required for all permanent exterior electric (illuminated) signs (Zoning Ordinance § 9.1.A.1)
- Commercial Zones (CB, TCC, GC) are limited to 1 freestanding/ground-mounted sign per lot per Table 9.2: CB and TCC zones max 40 sq ft total area / 12 ft height; GC zone max 48 sq ft total area / 12 ft height; a permit IS required for all three zoning districts under Table 9.2
- Permanent signs within commercial zones shall be constructed and installed by a licensed contractor, with a permit issued by the Town (Zoning Ordinance § 9.3.B.1.a)
- Neon sign elements are limited to interior window usage only within the CB, TCC, or GC zones (Zoning Ordinance § 9.3.B.1.c)
- Where a sign has three or more faces, sign area is calculated as the total area of all faces combined (Zoning Ordinance § 9.3.B.1.d)
- Wall/building signage may be externally illuminated or non-illuminated, but may not extend horizontally or vertically beyond the width or height of the building wall on which it is displayed (Zoning Ordinance § 9.3.B.2.a)
- Any proposed complex containing three (3) or more businesses must submit a comprehensive sign package to be reviewed and approved by the Town before any individual tenant sign permits are issued (Zoning Ordinance § 9.3.B.2)
- Directional signs (max 2 sq ft / 3 ft height), street address wall signs (max 2 sq ft, or as approved by the Fire Official for road visibility), and safety signs (max 2 sq ft / 3 ft height) are excluded from the aggregate sign area calculation (Zoning Ordinance § 9.1.E)
- All signs for which a Building Permit is required are subject to inspections during various stages of construction as prescribed by the Town of Cave Creek Building & Fire Safety Department (Zoning Ordinance § 9.5.D)
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (Sign)Submitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal; per Zoning Ordinance § 9.5.A must include site address, Assessor's Parcel Number, project description, contract value of job, property owner's name/address/phone/email, and sign contractor's name/address/phone/email
- RequiredSign Inventory and Site PlanInventory of all existing signs on the property showing type and dimensions of each sign, plus a Site Plan showing the location of each sign (Zoning Ordinance § 9.5.A.7)
- RequiredFully Dimensioned Sign Plans and ElevationsDimensions, design copy, and location of each proposed sign in relation to property line(s) and public Right-of-Way (Zoning Ordinance § 9.5.A.8)
- RequiredStructural PlansIndicating the scope and structural detail of the work, including details of all connections, and the edition of the Building Codes the plans are designed to (Zoning Ordinance § 9.5.A.9-10)
- OptionalComprehensive Sign PackageRequired in addition to the above for any complex with 3 or more businesses; must include materials, sign type (attached/detached), and any other information deemed necessary by the Town (Zoning Ordinance § 9.3.B.2, § 9.5.A.12)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sign — Building Mounted | $184.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule (as of 2/5/2026), Other Permit Fees, Signs. Figure verified by rendering the fee-schedule PDF page to an image and reading the table visually, because pdftotext -layout scrambles this column by one row (the raw extracted text prints each fee value one row above its true label) -- cross-validated by shift-correcting against this file's own already-verified Fences/Demolitions/Pools fee entries, which line up exactly under the same one-row shift, then confirmed by direct visual read of the rendered page. |
| Sign — Monument | $307.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule (as of 2/5/2026), Other Permit Fees, Signs. Same visual-verification method as the Building Mounted sign fee above. |
| Zoning Clearance — Fences, Signs, Buildings under 120 sq ft | $100.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule (as of 2/5/2026), Planning & Zoning, "ZC" - Zoning Clearances; a separate zoning clearance fee in addition to the sign permit fee above, confirmed by direct visual read of the rendered fee-schedule page (Page 4 of 9) |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); flat-fee sign permits have $0 plan review fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Fire Sprinkler / Fire Alarm Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation, alteration, or extension of automatic fire sprinkler systems and fire alarm systems in Cave Creek. Automatic fire sprinkler systems are governed by the Town's own legacy Sprinkler Code (Town Code § 151.07, originally adopted from Chapter 9 of the 2003 IFC in July 2004 and unchanged since) rather than the current-edition 2025 IFC's own Section 903 (which is deleted and redirected to § 151.07). Per the Town's Commercial Plan Submittal Guidelines, fire sprinkler work is issued under a SEPARATE permit from the building permit, required prior to the rough frame inspection. Fire alarm systems (along with emergency lights and exit signs) are reviewed as part of the Electrical submittal for a project rather than as their own distinct permit product -- Cave Creek does not treat sprinkler and alarm work as two differently-fee'd permit types; both are billed through the general valuation-based Building Permit Fee, the same mechanism used for this file's electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permit entries. Plan review, permit issuance, and inspections for fire code compliance are handled by the Town's own Building and Fire Safety Department (Adam Hicks, Building Official/Fire Marshal) -- NOT by Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical Department, which under an Intergovernmental Agreement effective January 3, 2022 provides Cave Creek's emergency fire suppression and EMS response/dispatch but has no independent fire-code permitting role within Town limits.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Automatic fire sprinkler systems are governed by the Town of Cave Creek's own Sprinkler Code (§ 151.07), originally adopted from Chapter 9 of the 2003 IFC in July 2004 and unchanged since; the 2025 IFC's own Section 903 and the 2025 IEBC's Section 1103.5 are both explicitly deleted and redirected to § 151.07 (Ordinance No. 2025-08, Sections 6-7, 9)
- Per the Town's Commercial Plan Submittal Guidelines ("IX) Fire Protection"), an automatic sprinkler system is permitted under a SEPARATE permit from the building permit, required prior to the rough frame inspection
- Sprinkler system plans must be designed with review certification demonstrating a minimum level III NICET (National Institute for the Certification of Engineering Technologies) technician, in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.8 of the IFC, and must include water flow data and specifications for hydraulic design
- Fire alarm systems, emergency lights, and exit signs are submitted as part of the Electrical plan set for a project (Commercial Plan Submittal Guidelines, Section VIII.7) rather than as a separately itemized fire alarm permit product
- Annual fire and life safety inspections are required for all occupancies and buildings except one- and two-family dwellings, per the Town's adopted 2025 IFC (Ordinance No. 2025-08, Section 6)
- Emergency fire suppression and EMS response within Cave Creek town limits is provided by Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical Department under an Intergovernmental Agreement effective January 3, 2022 -- this is a separate function from fire-code plan review and permitting, which remains with the Town's own Building and Fire Safety Department
- Apply via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
Required documents
- RequiredFire Protection (Sprinkler) Permit ApplicationSeparate permit application from the building permit, submitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal; required prior to the rough frame inspection per the Commercial Plan Submittal Guidelines
- RequiredSprinkler Plans with NICET Level III Review CertificationPlans designed and certified per IFC Sections 903.3.1-903.3.8, including water flow data and hydraulic design calculations/specifications
- RequiredElectrical Plan Set (Fire Alarm Systems)Fire alarm system, emergency lights, and exit sign layout submitted as part of the project's electrical plans (one-line diagram, panel schedule) rather than a standalone fire alarm submittal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fire sprinkler / fire alarm work not otherwise separately classified | Based on Valuation — see Building Permit Fee valuation table | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule (as of 2/5/2026) does not list a separate flat 'fire sprinkler permit' or 'fire alarm permit' fee line item -- exhaustively checked the full 9-page fee schedule (visually rendered and read) with no matching entry found; fire protection work is priced through the same general valuation-based Building Permit Fee table applied to electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work in this file's other entries |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50) | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Certificate of Occupancy for Change of Use Group
VerifiedCave Creek's real local equivalent of a 'change of use permit' is a Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) product administered by the Building and Fire Safety Department. Where a change of occupancy classification is proposed WITHOUT any accompanying construction work, the Town charges a dedicated flat 'Request for Certificate of Occupancy for Change of Use Group without Construction' fee. Where a change of use IS accompanied by construction/alteration work, that work is instead permitted and fee'd through the standard Commercial Building Permit (valuation-based) process, per the Town's adopted 2025 International Existing Building Code (IEBC, Town Code § 151.09) change-of-occupancy provisions. The Town's Fee Schedule separately itemizes a staged Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCofO) fee for projects that need to occupy a building before final completion.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- A Certificate of Occupancy for Change of Use Group without Construction applies where a proposed change in occupancy classification (e.g., retail to office, restaurant to retail) does NOT involve any construction or alteration work
- Where a change of occupancy IS accompanied by construction or alteration work, the project must instead apply for a standard Commercial Building Permit, valued and fee'd per the general valuation-based Building Permit Fee table, with plan review against the code requirements applicable to the new occupancy classification
- Governed by the 2025 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) as adopted by the Town of Cave Creek (Town Code § 151.09), which requires compliance with the code provisions applicable to the new occupancy classification before a change of occupancy is approved
- A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCofO) may be requested for a project that needs to occupy a building before all final work/inspections are complete; the fee increases the longer the temporary occupancy is extended (staged in 30-day increments)
- Apply via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal
Required documents
- RequiredRequest for Certificate of Occupancy for Change of Use Group (without Construction)Submitted via the Town's SmartGov Community Platform online portal for a straightforward occupancy-classification change with no construction scope
- OptionalCommercial Building Permit ApplicationRequired instead of the above when the change of use is accompanied by construction/alteration work; follows this file's residential/commercial building permit submittal requirements (site plan, construction drawings, structural calculations as applicable to scope)
- OptionalTemporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCofO) RequestSubmitted when a project needs to occupy a building before final completion/inspection; fee is staged by 30-day period
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Occupancy for Change of Use Group, without Construction | $61.00 | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule (as of 2/5/2026), "Request for Certificate of Occupancy for Change of Use Group without Construction." Figure confirmed by rendering the fee-schedule PDF page to an image and reading the table directly (Page 3 of 9), because pdftotext -layout scrambles this section's column alignment. |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCofO) — First 30 days | 3% of building permit fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Permit Fee for Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (CofO); confirmed by direct visual read of the rendered fee-schedule page |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCofO) — Second 30 days | 6% of building permit fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Permit Fee for Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (CofO); confirmed by direct visual read of the rendered fee-schedule page |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCofO) — Third 30 days | 9% of building permit fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Permit Fee for Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (CofO); confirmed by direct visual read of the rendered fee-schedule page. The Fee Schedule does not publish a fourth-tier (beyond 90 days) TCofO figure -- omitted here rather than inferred. |
| Change of Use WITH Construction | Based on Valuation — see Building Permit Fee valuation table | Priced through the standard Commercial Building Permit process (this file's general valuation-based fee table), not the flat $61 without-construction CofO fee, whenever the change of use involves any construction or alteration work |
| Plan Review Fee, Standard | 65% of the permit fee (minimum $50); flat-fee CofO permits have $0 plan review fee | Town of Cave Creek Comprehensive Fee Schedule, Plan Review Fees |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-06.
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 Cave Creek building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.