You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-07-06.
El Mirage building permits
VerifiedEl Mirage, Arizona — as published 2026-07-06.
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 (e.g., A.R.S. Title 9 for municipalities). The City of El Mirage runs its own Development Services / Building Safety Department and independently adopts and administers its own construction codes. Source: City of El Mirage Resolution R23-05-10 (adopted May 16, 2023) and City of El Mirage Permit Center page (elmirageaz.gov/712/Permit-Center).2018 International Building Code (IBC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments, per Resolution R23-05-10 (A Resolution of the Mayor and Council of the City of El Mirage, Arizona, Adopting the Following 2018 International Codes...), passed and adopted May 16, 2023, effective July 1, 2023. Source: City of El Mirage Resolution R23-05-10 and 'Adopted Codes and Amendments' (PDF), City of El Mirage Building Safety Documents & Quick Links page.2018 International Residential Code (IRC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023. Local IRC amendments include mandatory heating AND cooling (Section R303.10, capable of maintaining between 68-70°F and 90°F at 3 ft above floor / 2 ft from exterior walls), deletion of R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems in its entirety, and Section R301.2 Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria per Table R301.2(1). Source: Resolution R23-05-10, Exhibit — City of El Mirage Amendments to the 2018 International Residential Code.2018 International Fire Code (IFC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments (including Appendix B minimum fire flow amendment, deletion of Appendix M High-Rise retroactive sprinkler requirement, and addition of Appendix O Fire Emergency Access Signage Details), per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023; administered by the El Mirage/Surprise/Youngtown regional Fire Department (El Mirage Fire-Medical Department). Source: Resolution R23-05-10, Exhibit — City of El Mirage Amendments to the 2018 International Fire Code.2018 International Mechanical Code (IMC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023. Source: Resolution R23-05-10.2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023. Source: Resolution R23-05-10.2018 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023. Source: Resolution R23-05-10.2018 International Existing Building Code (IEBC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023. Source: Resolution R23-05-10.2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023 — regulates energy efficiency in design/construction; the code's Chapter 11 residential energy provisions are folded into the IRC (N1101 et seq.) as adopted. Source: Resolution R23-05-10.2018 International Green Construction Code (IGCC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023. Source: Resolution R23-05-10.2018 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), adopted by reference, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023 — violations may be prosecuted as a civil infraction (fine $50-$1,000 per violation) or a class 1 misdemeanor (up to 180 days imprisonment and/or a fine up to $2,500 per violation, up to $20,000 if the violator is an enterprise). Source: Resolution R23-05-10.2017 ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, adopted by reference, per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023, together with the Arizonans with Disabilities Act (A.R.S. Title 41, Chapter 9, Article 8) and the federal ADA. Source: Resolution R23-05-10.2017 National Electrical Code (NEC), adopted by reference with City of El Mirage local amendments (e.g., an amendment to NEC Article E3908.8 Option Four — electrical metallic tubing wiring methods, requiring an additional equipment grounding conductor sized per Table E3908.12), per Resolution R23-05-10, effective July 1, 2023 (note: electrical code cycle is one edition behind the 2018 ICC set). Source: Resolution R23-05-10, Exhibit — City of El Mirage Amendments to the 2017 National Electrical Code.Manufactured housing used as dwellings and private sewage disposal systems are governed directly by the Arizona Department of Housing's Manufactured Housing & Building Division regulations — IRC Appendix E (Manufactured Housing Used as Dwellings) and Appendix I (Private Sewage Disposal) are each deleted in their entirety by City of El Mirage local amendment and replaced with a cross-reference to the state agency's regulations. Source: Resolution R23-05-10, Exhibit — City of El Mirage Amendments to the 2018 International Residential Code, Appendices E and I.
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit (New Construction, Additions, Accessory Buildings)
VerifiedRequired for new single-family dwelling construction, room additions, and accessory buildings (sheds, workshops, garages, pool houses, barns) over 120 sq ft in the City of El Mirage. Reviewed against the 2018 IRC and City of El Mirage amendments (effective July 1, 2023). Applications are submitted electronically through the ELM Online Permits portal (ci-elmirage-az.smartgovcommunity.com); as of January 2, 2024, all plans must be submitted electronically.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for new single-family dwelling construction and for accessory buildings (storage sheds, barns, pool houses, detached garages, workshops) unless the structure is a one-story detached accessory structure of 120 sq ft or less (which is exempt from a permit but must still meet zoning setback requirements)
- Plans must comply with the 2018 IRC and City of El Mirage amendments, including Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria (115 mph wind, Exposure B; Seismic Design Category B; frost line depth 0 in; moderate-to-heavy termite potential; mandatory heating AND cooling per R303.10)
- Site Plan and construction plans required, detailing the full scope of work including structural, electrical, and plumbing information
- If electricity or plumbing will be installed in an accessory structure, additional permit fees apply
- Submittal via the ELM Online Permits portal (ci-elmirage-az.smartgovcommunity.com) — all plans must be submitted electronically as of January 2, 2024
- A non-refundable $150.00 application fee applies at submittal for accessory buildings and most residential permit types
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal (ci-elmirage-az.smartgovcommunity.com)
- RequiredSite Plan and Construction PlansLot dimensions, easements, setbacks, structure locations, and full scope of work including structural, electrical, and plumbing details
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fees Based on Value (BOV) — Valuation $1,000 or less | $75 flat | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section; final valuation set by the Building Official per the most current ICC Building Valuation Data or approved cost documentation |
| Fees Based on Value (BOV) — Valuation $1,001 to $999,999 | $100 base fee plus $6 per additional $1,000 of valuation | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Fees Based on Value (BOV) — Valuation $1,000,000 and above | $100 base fee plus $5 per additional $1,000 of valuation | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Permit Application Deposit (Commercial and Residential) | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Building Plan Review | 65% of permit fee | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Certificate of Occupancy — Residential | $100 per house | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Residential Addition / Garage Conversion / Patio Enclosure Permit
VerifiedRequired for garage conversions into livable space, carport or patio enclosures, and room additions to existing one- and two-family dwellings in El Mirage. Reviewed against the 2018 IRC as adopted and amended by the City of El Mirage.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required when converting a garage into a livable space or enclosing an existing carport or patio
- Plans must outline the full scope of work, including all room dimensions, window and door sizes/locations, and construction details
- If the converted space is used as a sleeping area, plans must include a smoke detector in the room
- Rooms must be accessible through the existing house; no exterior-only entrances are allowed
- Fees are based on the valuation of the project's square footage, plus a non-refundable $150.00 application fee
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal
- RequiredRoom Addition HandoutCity of El Mirage guidance document for garage conversions, carport/patio enclosures, and room additions
- RequiredSite Plan and Construction PlansRoom dimensions, window and door sizes, and construction/anchoring details
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fees Based on Value (BOV) | $75 flat (valuation $1,000 or less); $100 + $6/$1,000 of valuation ($1,001-$999,999); $100 + $5/$1,000 of valuation ($1,000,000+) | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Building Plan Review | 65% of permit fee | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Electrical Permit (Panel Replacement/Repair)
VerifiedRequired for electrical repair or service panel change-outs in the City of El Mirage, governed by the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) as adopted and amended by the City.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical permit required for an electric repair or service panel change-out
- Materials and installation must comply with the 2017 NEC as adopted and amended by the City of El Mirage
- Manufactured cut sheet for the new panel/equipment required at submittal
- Fees are based on the valuation of the project and are due at the time of permit issuance
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Electrical Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal
- RequiredManufactured Cut SheetManufacturer specification sheet for the panel or electrical equipment being installed
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fees Based on Value (BOV) | $75 flat (valuation $1,000 or less); $100 + $6/$1,000 of valuation ($1,001-$999,999); $100 + $5/$1,000 of valuation ($1,000,000+) | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section; due at time of permit issuance for electric panel work |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Water Heater / Water Supply Line / Sewer Line Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation or replacement of water heaters, water supply lines, and sewer lines in the City of El Mirage, governed by the 2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC) as adopted and amended by the City.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Plumbing permit required for installation or replacement of gas, tankless, or solar water heaters; installation of a new water supply line or repair/replacement of an existing line; and installation or repair of a sewer line
- Gas water heaters: upper and lower combustion air must be installed/maintained if in a closet or confined space; 1-inch clearance on the vent from combustible materials; maximum flex gas pipe length 36 inches with 1/2-inch minimum diameter
- Tankless water heaters must be installed per manufacturer instructions; gas sizing or electrical supply may require an upgraded line
- All water heaters: approved water heater pan with 1-inch drain line where required; T&P relief valve discharge pipe must discharge outside, not less than 6 inches above grade; isolation valve on the cold water line; garage installations must have the ignition source elevated; expansion tank required on all tank-type water heaters
- Water supply line: piping must be an approved material, minimum 12-inch burial depth, shut-off valve before entering the house, sized per the 2006 IRC/IPC, and a backflow preventer (vacuum breaker) at all exterior hose bibs
- Fees for water heaters are flat fees per the fee schedule; a non-refundable $150.00 application fee applies
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Plumbing Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal
- RequiredManufactured Cut SheetManufacturer specification sheet for the water heater being installed
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater (flat fee per fee schedule) | Flat fee — see FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule states fees for water heaters are flat fees; specific dollar figure for the water-heater line item was not separately legible in the extracted Building Safety fee table beyond the general BOV categories — confirm exact flat amount with Development Services at 623-972-8116 before applying |
| Water Supply Line / Sewer Line Repair (Based on Value) | $75 flat (valuation $1,000 or less); $100 + $6/$1,000 of valuation ($1,001-$999,999); $100 + $5/$1,000 of valuation ($1,000,000+) | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Heating & Air Conditioning Repair or Replacement Permit
VerifiedRequired for additions, alterations, renovations, or repairs to mechanical (HVAC) systems in the City of El Mirage, governed by the 2018 International Mechanical Code (IMC) as adopted and amended by the City. El Mirage's IRC amendments mandate both heating AND cooling capability in every dwelling unit.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Mechanical permit required for additions, alterations, renovations, or repairs to a mechanical system, conforming to the 2018 IMC as adopted by the City of El Mirage
- Every dwelling unit must maintain heating AND cooling capable of a minimum 68-70°F and maximum 90°F at 3 ft above floor / 2 ft from exterior walls (IRC R303.10, as amended) — portable heaters/coolers do not satisfy this requirement
- Appliances must remain accessible for inspection, service, repair, and replacement without removing permanent construction
- Minimum 1-inch clearance between Type B vent pipe and combustible surfaces
- Condensate from cooling coils/evaporators must be conveyed to an approved disposal point
- Refrigerant vapor (suction) line piping/fittings insulated with 3/4-inch pipe insulation
- Gas connections piped via an approved flex connector with an approved ball-valve-type shutoff
- Manufactured cut sheet required at submittal
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Mechanical Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal
- RequiredManufactured Cut SheetManufacturer specification sheet for the HVAC equipment being installed
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fees Based on Value (BOV) | $75 flat (valuation $1,000 or less); $100 + $6/$1,000 of valuation ($1,001-$999,999); $100 + $5/$1,000 of valuation ($1,000,000+) | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Fence and Retaining Wall Permit
VerifiedUnlike many peer Arizona cities, the City of El Mirage requires a permit for a fence of ANY type or height, and for retaining walls over 24 inches — the standard IBC/IRC no-permit exemptions for shorter fences and lower retaining walls were expressly struck out by City of El Mirage local amendment.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- A permit is required for the construction of a new fence or replacement fence made of ANY type of material — El Mirage's amendment to IBC/IRC 105.2 deletes the base code's exemption for fences not over 7 feet high
- A permit is required for retaining walls over 24 inches (2 feet) in height — El Mirage's amendment deletes the base code's exemption for retaining walls not over 4 feet high, imposing a stricter, lower 24-inch threshold
- Retaining walls 24 to 48 inches in height require plans showing how the wall and footings will be constructed; walls 4 feet (48 inches) or more require an engineered design with sealed, signed structural calculations
- Site Plan with dimensions indicating fence/wall location and length required; a Neighboring Property Owner Authorization Form (notarized/completed by the adjoining property owner) is required for fences
- Fees for fences are based on the valuation of the linear feet of the project; fees for retaining walls are based on valuation; a non-refundable $150.00 application fee applies to both
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal
- RequiredNeighboring Property Owner Authorization FormMust be completed and notarized by the owner of the neighboring property for fence permits
- OptionalBlock Wall Masonry Fence HandoutCity of El Mirage guidance document for masonry block wall fences
- RequiredSite PlanDimensions indicating fence/wall location and length, or retaining wall location and height
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fence (Based on Value, per linear feet) | Valuation-based, see FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule BOV table | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule; City's Residential Property Improvements page confirms 'Fees are based on the valuation of the linear feet of the project' |
| Retaining Wall (Based on Value) | $75 flat (valuation $1,000 or less); $100 + $6/$1,000 of valuation ($1,001-$999,999); $100 + $5/$1,000 of valuation ($1,000,000+) | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Residential Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of any solar photovoltaic system that ties into the electrical grid in the City of El Mirage. Reviewed against the 2017 NEC as adopted and amended by the City, using dedicated PV System Permit Requirement and Inspection Checklists.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Permit required for installation of any solar photovoltaic system that ties into the electrical grid
- Site Plan showing the location of the system on the roof or in the yard
- Standard plans stamped by a registered State of Arizona engineer or architect
- PV System Permit Requirement Checklist and PV System Inspection Checklist components must be submitted with the Building Permit Application
Required documents
- RequiredPV System Permit Requirement ChecklistCity of El Mirage checklist detailing required submittal components for solar PV permits
- RequiredPV System Inspection ChecklistCity of El Mirage checklist detailing inspection requirements for solar PV systems
- RequiredSite Plan and Stamped PlansSite plan showing system location, plus standard plans stamped by an Arizona-registered engineer or architect
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fees Based on Value (BOV) | $75 flat (valuation $1,000 or less); $100 + $6/$1,000 of valuation ($1,001-$999,999); $100 + $5/$1,000 of valuation ($1,000,000+) | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section — no separately itemized flat PV fee was found in the Building Safety fee table; solar PV is billed under the general valuation-based (BOV) fee structure |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
EV Charger / EVSE Permit (Billed as General Electrical Permit)
VerifiedRequired for installation of a Level 2 (or higher) electric vehicle charger/EVSE in the City of El Mirage, governed by the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) as adopted and amended by the City. El Mirage has no dedicated EV-charger permit type, fee line, or checklist (unlike its dedicated PV System Permit Requirement Checklist for solar) — the City's own Residential Property Improvements page does not list EV chargers as a distinct improvement category, and the FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule has no EV-specific line item. An EV charger circuit is billed under the same Fees Based on Value (BOV) electrical permit schedule used for panel replacement/repair and other electrical work.
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical permit required for the EV charger circuit installation, same as for other electrical repair/panel work
- Materials and installation must comply with the 2017 NEC (Article 625, Electric Vehicle Power Transfer System) as adopted and amended by the City of El Mirage
- Manufactured cut sheet for the EVSE unit/equipment required at submittal, following the same practice as panel/equipment permits
- Fees are based on the valuation of the project (BOV) and are due at the time of permit issuance
- No dedicated EV-charger checklist was found published — unlike the City's dedicated PV System Permit Requirement Checklist for solar, EV chargers are not called out as their own improvement category
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Electrical Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal
- RequiredManufactured Cut SheetManufacturer specification sheet for the EVSE/charging equipment being installed
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fees Based on Value (BOV) | $75 flat (valuation $1,000 or less); $100 + $6/$1,000 of valuation ($1,001-$999,999); $100 + $5/$1,000 of valuation ($1,000,000+) | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section; no EV-charger-specific line item exists, so this general valuation-based electrical fee table applies, the same one used for panel replacement/repair |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Demolition Permit
VerifiedRequired for demolition of any building or structure larger than 120 sq ft in the City of El Mirage. Requires coordination with Maricopa County Air Quality (asbestos/dust control) and Arizona 811 utility locating prior to work.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for demolition of any building or structure larger than 120 sq ft
- Site Plan required showing street address, lot number, parcel number, all lot dimensions/property lines, adjacent streets labeled, structures to be demolished vs. retained clearly marked, dumpster and construction fence location, and the location of all gas/water meters, sewer lines, and underground electrical lines
- A haul permit is required for debris in excess of 500 cubic yards (contact El Mirage Engineering)
- Commercial demolitions require proof of ownership; all permits for commercial, tenant improvement, residential, and factory-built structures shall include required ownership documentation
- Disturbed areas larger than 1/10 acre (4,356 sq ft) must comply with Maricopa County dust control requirements
- Contractor information required: property owner may act as their own contractor only if the property is not a rental
- Notice must be given to adjacent property owners ten days prior to work (exceptions apply)
- Construction fencing 42 inches in height required to protect the site and public during demolition
- A temporary site address sign visible from the street must be posted
- Arizona 811 must be contacted to locate utilities prior to any digging or utility disconnection
- All utilities must be terminated/located at the property line before demolition begins
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal
- RequiredSite PlanDetailed plan per the City's Demolitions submittal requirements (address, lot/parcel number, dimensions, structures, utilities, dumpster/fence location)
- OptionalContractor Guidelines for Demolition (PDF)City of El Mirage guidance document for demolition contractors
- OptionalDemolition Requirements Owner Builder (PDF)City of El Mirage guidance for owner-builder demolition projects
- OptionalDust Control Pamphlet (PDF)City of El Mirage guidance referencing Maricopa County dust control compliance
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition — Assessor Structures, per structure | $25 per building | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section; the City's Residential Property Improvements page separately states demolition fees range '$25-$200 each' by structure type |
| Demolition — Single Family Dwelling, per house | $150 | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Demolition — Commercial Building, per building | $200 | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Swimming Pool / Spa Permit
VerifiedRequired for new swimming pools and spas with a depth of 18 inches or more in the City of El Mirage. Requires an engineer-stamped pool design, a notarized Pool Affidavit, and compliance with Arizona pool barrier requirements.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Applies to all new swimming pools and spas with a depth of 18 inches or more
- Site Plan with dimensions indicating the location of the pool, including setback dimensions, required
- Engineer-stamped set of pool standards or design plans required
- Notarized Pool Affidavit required with all pool submittals
- Must comply with ARS Title 36 (§ 36-1681 et seq.) pool barrier requirements
- Fees for pools and spas are flat fees per the fee schedule; a non-refundable $150.00 application fee applies
Required documents
- RequiredPool AffidavitMust be notarized and included at submittal for all pool permit applications
- RequiredARS Pool Barrier Requirements ReferenceCity-published reference to Arizona statutory pool barrier requirements
- RequiredEngineer-Stamped Pool Design PlansPool standards or design plans stamped by a registered engineer
- OptionalPool Inspections ChecklistCity of El Mirage handout describing pre-gunite and pre-plaster inspection expectations
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Swimming Pool / Spa (flat fee per fee schedule) | Flat fee — see FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule | City's Residential Property Improvements page confirms 'Fees for pool and spas are flat. See fee schedule.' — specific dollar figure was not separately legible as an itemized pool/spa line in the extracted Building Safety fee table; confirm exact flat amount with Development Services at 623-972-8116 before applying |
| Permit Application Deposit | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY25-26 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section |
Commercial Sign Permit (Wall, Monument/Pylon, Awning, Temporary Banner)
VerifiedRequired before erecting, constructing, or altering most permanent and several temporary sign types in the City of El Mirage, per Chapter 154 (Zoning Code) Subchapter on Signs, as administered by the Zoning Administrator/Planning & Zoning Division with the permit itself issued and fees collected by Building Safety. Some small/temporary signs (e.g., yard signs 6 sq ft or less, window decorations) are exempt from a permit. Freestanding/monument signs require a footing inspection and illuminated signs require an electrical inspection in addition to a final inspection.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- A sign permit is required before the use, construction, reconstruction, or alteration of most sign structures; the Zoning Administrator or designee will not issue the permit until adequate information is submitted showing conformance with Chapter 154's sign regulations (El Mirage Zoning Code SS154.136(A)(2))
- Application must be submitted on the official city form (SS154.136(A)(1)), via the ELM Online Permits portal, with all fees paid per the current City Council-adopted fee schedule before permit issuance (SS154.136(B)(1))
- One attached (wall-mounted) sign per street frontage is permitted per business in non-residential zoning districts; total aggregate wall-mounted sign area for non-residential uses is capped per SS154.131's aggregate sign area formula (SS154.133(A))
- Freestanding/monument signs: one per street frontage (or one per 200 ft of frontage, whichever is greater) for a single-use building/complex on one lot; max height 8 ft; max area 48 sq ft (sites under 5 acres) or 60 sq ft (sites 5+ acres); must sit outside 3 ft of the front property line and 6 ft of side/rear property lines; monument-type masonry (or equivalent architectural-grade) base required (SS154.133(G))
- Temporary yard signs with a sign area of 6 sq ft or less do NOT require a sign permit, provided they comply with the yard-sign standards in SS154.134(G); window decorations/painting signs likewise never require a permit (SS154.134(F))
- Banner signs: max 32 sq ft per development/business street frontage, securely affixed to a wall or fence, displayed a maximum of 9 days per occurrence up to 6 occurrences per calendar year (larger size or longer duration for temporary/non-profit organizations requires sign permit approval) (SS154.134(B))
- Whenever a sign requires an electrical permit (illuminated signs), both the sign permit and the electrical permit must be issued/obtained simultaneously, or may be included under one combined sign permit (SS154.136(A)(6))
- If a sign is erected, constructed, or displayed without first obtaining a required permit, a special investigation is required and an investigation fee equal to the permit fee is charged in ADDITION to the permit fee itself (SS154.136(A)(5))
Required documents
- RequiredSign Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Official city sign permit application form per El Mirage Zoning Code SS154.136(A)(1), submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal
- RequiredSign Plans / DrawingsDimensions, materials, and (for freestanding/monument signs) footing/structural details, plus an electrical wiring diagram for illuminated signs
- RequiredSite PlanShows the proposed sign location relative to property lines and street frontage; freestanding/monument signs must clear 3 ft from the front property line and 6 ft from side/rear property lines
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sign — 0-32 sq ft | $60 each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — SIGNS section (verified by visual render of the fee-schedule PDF) |
| Sign — 33-48 sq ft | $90 each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — SIGNS section |
| Sign — over 48 sq ft | $150 each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — SIGNS section |
| Monument / Pylon Sign | Based on Value (BOV) | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — SIGNS section; billed under the same valuation-based table used for other Building Safety permits rather than a flat sign fee |
| Electrical Connection (sign) | $50 each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — SIGNS section |
| Face Panel Change-Out Only | $25 each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — SIGNS section |
| Temporary Banner (30 days) | $40 each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — SIGNS section |
| Permit Application Deposit (Commercial and Residential) | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section — same general deposit line item applied across Building Safety permit types in this file |
| Comprehensive (Master) Sign Package — optional, multi-tenant developments | $1,000 per request | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Planning & Zoning (P&Z) section — a separate, optional review for a uniform/master sign plan covering a multi-tenant center; not required for a single standard sign permit |
Fire Sprinkler System & Fire Alarm System Permit
VerifiedThe City of El Mirage operates its own municipal Fire Department with its own Fire Marshal (Jason Napier) who conducts fire plan review and inspections directly, rather than deferring to Maricopa County or a regional fire district. Fire protective-system work (automatic fire sprinkler systems and fire alarm systems) is permitted through Building Safety under the 2018 International Fire Code (IFC) as adopted and amended per Resolution R23-05-10, with the Fire Marshal serving as the primary plan reviewer on the City's dedicated 'Fire Permits' review track. Because El Mirage's IRC amendments delete R313 (mandatory residential automatic sprinklers) and R309.5 (garage/carport sprinklers) in their entirety, single-family dwellings are NOT required to have fire sprinklers — the fee schedule's 'Fire Sprinkler Systems - Residential' line applies only to voluntary residential installs.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- Permit required for installation, modification, or replacement of a fire alarm system (manual or automatic) or an automatic fire sprinkler system (NFPA 13/13R commercial, or residential), reviewed under the 2018 IFC as adopted and locally amended per Resolution R23-05-10
- El Mirage operates its own municipal Fire Department / Fire Marshal (Jason Napier, jnapier@elmirageaz.gov, 623-251-3507; Fire Administration Office 623-583-7968) who conducts fire plan review and inspections directly — it does not defer fire plan review to Maricopa County or a regional fire authority
- Per the City's Plan Review Turnaround Times document, 'Fire Permits' are reviewed on their own dedicated project-type track: Building Safety 10 City business days (first review) / 5 (subsequent), and Fire 10 City business days (first review) / 5 (subsequent)
- New fire alarm system and new commercial fire sprinkler (NFPA 13/13R) installs are fee-tiered by system square footage, per submittal; modifications to either system are fee-tiered by number of devices
- A separate flat $100-per-submittal fee applies to new residential fire sprinkler installs/modifications — voluntary in El Mirage, since IRC R313 is deleted by City amendment
- Building Permit Plan Review by the Fire Secondary Reviewer is billed at 10% of the commercial permit fee (per submittal); the Fire Primary Permit Plan Reviewer fee is billed at 65% of the fire construction permit fee (per submittal), per the FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule
- Sprinklered (Yes/No) and Alarm (Yes/No) status is confirmed on the Certificate of Occupancy Sign-Off Sheet before a CO is issued for the associated building or tenant space
Required documents
- RequiredBuilding/Fire Permit Application (ELM Online Permits)Submitted electronically via the ELM Online Permits portal, reviewed on the City's dedicated 'Fire Permits' track
- RequiredFire Protection System Plans / Shop DrawingsSprinkler or alarm system design/shop drawings for Fire Marshal plan review; the City's fee schedule prices this submittal by system square footage (new installs) or device count (modifications), but no separately published plan-content checklist specific to sprinkler/alarm submittals was found as of this review — confirm exact submittal package requirements with the Fire Marshal (623-251-3507) before applying
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Alarm — New Manual/Automatic System Install, 5,000 sq ft or less | $300 per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section (verified by visual render of the fee-schedule PDF; pdftotext -layout scrambled this table's columns) |
| Fire Alarm — New Install, 5,001-10,000 sq ft | $400 per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section |
| Fire Alarm — New Install, 10,001-50,000 sq ft | $500 per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section |
| Fire Alarm — New Install, 50,001-100,000 sq ft | $700 per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section |
| Fire Alarm — New Install, 100,001-150,000 sq ft | $1,000 per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section |
| Fire Alarm — New Install, over 150,000 sq ft | $1,500 per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section |
| Fire Alarm — Modifications (1-5 devices / 6-20 / 21-50 / over 50) | $100 / $150 / $200 / $300 per submittal, respectively | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section |
| Fire Alarm — Miscellaneous (new control panel, change of communication method, other) | $150 per submittal each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section; connection to access-controlled/delayed-egress doors, and sprinkler monitoring/elevator recall, and emergency alarm system are each $200 per submittal |
| Fire Sprinkler Systems 13 & 13R (Commercial) — New Install, 5,000 sq ft or less | $300 per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section — same square-footage fee tiers as fire alarm new installs ($400/$500/$700/$1,000/$1,500 for 5,001-10,000 / 10,001-50,000 / 50,001-100,000 / 100,001-150,000 / over 150,000 sq ft, respectively) |
| Fire Sprinkler Systems 13 & 13R (Commercial) — Modifications (1-5 / 6-20 / 21-50 / over 50 devices) | $100 / $150 / $200 / $300 per submittal, respectively | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section |
| Fire Sprinkler Systems — Residential (voluntary; not required by code) | $100 per submittal, new install or modification | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section; residential sprinklers are voluntary in El Mirage because IRC R313 is deleted in its entirety by City amendment |
| Fire Pump — New / Modification-Replacement | $500 / $100 per submittal, respectively | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, FIRE FEES section |
| Building Permit Plan Review — Fire Secondary Reviewer | 10% of the commercial permit fee, per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, PLAN REVIEW FEES section |
| Fire Primary Permit Plan Reviewer | 65% of the fire construction permit fee, per submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, PLAN REVIEW FEES section |
| Permit Application Deposit (Commercial and Residential) | $150, non-refundable, due at submittal | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety section — same general deposit line item applied across Building Safety permit types in this file |
Certificate of Occupancy / Change of Occupancy Permit (Commercial & Tenant Improvement)
VerifiedEl Mirage's equivalent of a 'change of use' permit is its Certificate of Occupancy (CO) process, administered by Building Safety with mandatory sign-off from multiple departments before the certificate is issued (Building Inspection, Business License, Engineering Inspection, Fire Inspection, and Planning Inspection for a full commercial project; a narrower subset applies to Tenant Improvement and Residential COs). A distinct, low-cost 'Tenant (no work performed)' fee applies specifically when a new tenant occupies an existing commercial space with a compatible use and no construction work is performed — this is El Mirage's closest equivalent to a stand-alone 'change of use' permit in jurisdictions that use that term.
Verified 2026-07-23 · Source
Requirements
- A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is required before occupying any new, altered, or repurposed commercial building or tenant space in El Mirage; a Certificate of Completion is issued instead for speculative/'shell' tenant space with no defined occupancy at the time construction is finished
- Applicant must complete the applicable Certificate of Occupancy Sign-Off Sheet (Residential, Commercial, Tenant Improvement, or Temporary/Not-for-Occupancy variant) and obtain every required department's approval signature before Building Safety will process the certificate
- Commercial CO sign-off requires approval from: Building Inspection, Business License, Engineering Inspection, Fire Inspection, and Planning Inspection
- Tenant Improvement CO sign-off requires approval from: Building Inspection, Business License, and Fire Inspection (no separate Engineering/Planning line on this variant)
- Residential CO sign-off requires approval from: Building Inspection, Engineering Inspection, and Planning Inspection (no Business License or Fire sign-off required for a single-family home)
- A 'Tenant (no work performed)' fee of $50 applies specifically to a change of occupancy/change of tenant where no construction work is performed — this is El Mirage's closest equivalent to a dedicated 'change of use' permit product
- The owner/contractor is solely responsible for coordinating all underlying department inspections; if an inspection fails, that department's inspector leaves a written correction notice for the owner/contractor to resolve — the CO or Certificate of Completion will NOT be issued until ALL required department approvals are received
- Once the fully-signed sign-off sheet is delivered to Building Safety, City office processing time is within 10 business days
- Construction type, occupancy classification, occupant load, number of stories, and Sprinklered/Alarm status (Yes/No) are recorded on the sign-off sheet at the time of issuance, and all applicable fees must be paid before the certificate is issued
Required documents
- RequiredCertificate of Occupancy Sign-Off Sheet — CommercialRequired for full commercial CO applications; routes through Building, Business License, Engineering, Fire, and Planning for sign-off
- OptionalCertificate of Occupancy Sign-Off Sheet — Tenant ImprovementRequired for tenant-improvement CO applications; routes through Building, Business License, and Fire for sign-off
- OptionalCertificate of Occupancy Sign-Off Sheet — ResidentialRequired for single-family residential CO applications; routes through Building, Engineering, and Planning for sign-off
- OptionalCertificate of Completion Sign-Off Sheet — Not for OccupancyUsed instead of a CO for speculative/shell tenant space with no defined occupancy at completion; routes through the same 5 departments as the Commercial CO variant
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Completion (speculative tenant space, no defined occupancy) | $250 per building | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — Certificate (C) of Occupancy (O) section (verified by visual render of the fee-schedule PDF) |
| Commercial Certificate of Occupancy | $200 per building | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — Certificate (C) of Occupancy (O) section |
| Tenant (no work performed) — Change of Occupancy | $50 per change of occupancy | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — Certificate (C) of Occupancy (O) section; this is the fee line item for a pure change-of-tenant/change-of-use with no construction work |
| Residential Certificate of Occupancy | $100 per house | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — Certificate (C) of Occupancy (O) section |
| Multi-Family Certificate of Occupancy | $100 per building | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — Certificate (C) of Occupancy (O) section |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy — first 30-day period | $250 each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — Certificate (C) of Occupancy (O) section |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy — 31-60 days | $500 each | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — Certificate (C) of Occupancy (O) section |
| Temporary Certificate of Occupancy — 61-90 days | $1,000 | City of El Mirage FY26-27 Adopted Fee Schedule, Building Safety — Certificate (C) of Occupancy (O) section; verified by visual render of the fee-schedule PDF (pdftotext -layout had bled this figure into an unrelated row) |
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 El Mirage building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.