You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-08-16.
Scottsdale building permits
VerifiedScottsdale, Arizona — as published 2026-08-16.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Codes adopted
Permit types & fees
Residential Building Permit (New Single-Family / Addition / Remodel)
VerifiedA building permit is required for all construction work in Scottsdale including new single-family custom homes, additions, patio covers, carport enclosures, walls and fences, retaining walls, and accessory buildings greater than 200 sq. ft. Smaller residential remodels and additions under 500 sq. ft. (single story, no second-floor additions) may qualify for a Small Scope Review (SSR). All permit applications are submitted through the Scottsdale SPUR planning and permitting portal. Fees are square-footage-based, not valuation-based.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Submit all permit applications through the Scottsdale SPUR portal (cityofscottsdaleaz-energovweb.tylerhost.net/apps/selfservice); create a SPUR account before applying
- Plans must comply with the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) with Scottsdale amendments (effective January 7, 2023) and the 2021 IECC energy code
- Use the 2021 IRC Building Code Plan Review Checklist (PDF published at scottsdaleaz.gov/codes-and-ordinances/building-codes) when preparing residential plans
- Small Scope Reviews (remodels/additions under 500 sq. ft., covered patio additions, carport enclosures, garage conversions, non-habitable accessory buildings under 1,000 sq. ft., and solar compliant with placement guidelines) may be submitted as SSR in SPUR
- Projects in FEMA (A) flood zones or Environmentally Sensitive Lands (ESL) zoning do not qualify for Small Scope Review and must be submitted for full plan review
- Detached non-habitable structures smaller than 200 sq. ft. in floor area do not require a permit but a site plan is required for a courtesy plan review
- Work completed without a permit is fined double the permit fee
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (Excludes Demo, Fire, Pools & Backflow Preventer)Scottsdale's SFR permit application form; available on the Planning and Development Forms page
- Required2021 IRC Building Code Plan Review ChecklistChecklist for residential plan submittals under the 2021 IRC; published on the Building Code Information page
- Required2021 Residential Energy Compliance CertificateRequired for new homes and additions; available on the Building Code Information page
- OptionalMinor Addition / Remodel Submittal PacketFor single-story remodels and additions under 1,000 sq. ft.; available on the Permit Services page (PDF)
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Family Custom (new home) — permit fee | $237 base fee + $0.94/sq. ft. (livable area with A/C) + $0.54/sq. ft. (covered area non-A/C) + $195 Certificate of Occupancy + $379 GIS fee | Permit Fee Schedule – Single Family Residential, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27 effective July 1, 2026; same rates as FY 2025/26 Resolution No. 13391). Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Single Family Addition — permit fee | $237 base fee + $0.94/sq. ft. (livable area with A/C) + $0.54/sq. ft. (covered area non-A/C) + $195 Certificate of Occupancy + $379 GIS fee | Single Family Addition Less than 500 sq. ft. omits the Certificate of Occupancy and GIS fee. Source: Permit Fee Schedule – SFR, Resolution No. 13661. |
| Single Family Remodel — permit fee | $237 base fee + $0.94/sq. ft. × 30% (livable area with A/C) + $0.54/sq. ft. (covered area non-A/C). Remodel with roof modification: $237 base + $0.94/sq. ft. × 70% (livable A/C) + $0.54/sq. ft. (covered non-A/C) | Source: Permit Fee Schedule – SFR, Resolution No. 13661. |
| Plan review fee (Single Family Custom / Addition) | $0.54/sq. ft. (livable area with A/C) + $0.34/sq. ft. (covered area non-A/C) | Plan Review Fee Schedule – SFR, Exhibit A, Resolution No. Show full citationHidePlan Review Fee Schedule – SFR, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026; rates unchanged from FY 2025/26 Resolution No. 13391). Note: Minimum permit projects (water heater, HVAC change-out, electrical minimum work) do not require a plan review. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Re-inspection | $121 per re-inspection | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. |
Electrical Permit
VerifiedAn electrical permit is required to install, alter, reconstruct or repair electrical wiring on any building, structure, swimming pool, or mechanical equipment in Scottsdale. Electrical work must comply with the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) with Scottsdale amendments, effective January 1, 2023. Most single-family residential electrical work qualifies as a 'Minimum Permit' — no plan review is required and the permit can be obtained online through Scottsdale SPUR. Minimum permit examples include: electrical re-wire, service upgrade or change out (400 AMP max.), relocate panel box, raise electrical mast, replace main breaker, temporary power pole, and residential load controller.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical work must comply with the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) with Scottsdale amendments (effective January 1, 2023)
- Submit permit application through Scottsdale SPUR portal
- Most single-family residential electrical work qualifies as a Minimum Permit — no plan review required, apply online
- Service upgrades are limited to 400 AMP maximum for minimum permit classification
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (electrical scope)Scottsdale SFR permit application used for electrical work; submitted through SPUR portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Permit (single discipline — electrical) | $121 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). A plan review is not required for minimum permit residential electrical work. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Minimum Combination Permit (all disciplines — electrical, mechanical, plumbing) | $379 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. |
| Temporary Power Pole | $121 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. |
Plumbing Permit
VerifiedA plumbing permit is required to install, alter, reconstruct, or repair any plumbing system, gas system, lawn sprinkler supply, or water heater replacement in Scottsdale. Plumbing work must comply with the 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC) with Scottsdale amendments, effective January 1, 2023. Most single-family residential plumbing work qualifies as a Minimum Permit — no plan review required, apply online. Minimum permit plumbing examples include: water heater replacement (gas or electric), replace water lines, repair broken water lines, plumbing for water softener or hot water re-circulator, sewer line repair, and connecting a new irrigation system.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Plumbing work must comply with the 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC) with Scottsdale amendments (effective January 1, 2023)
- Submit permit application through Scottsdale SPUR portal
- Most single-family residential plumbing work qualifies as a Minimum Permit — no plan review required, apply online
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (plumbing scope)Scottsdale SFR permit application used for plumbing work; submitted through SPUR portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Permit (single discipline — plumbing) | $121 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). A plan review is not required for minimum permit residential plumbing work. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Minimum Combination Permit (all disciplines) | $379 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. |
Mechanical / HVAC Permit
VerifiedA mechanical permit is required to install, alter, reconstruct or repair any furnace, refrigeration or other air conditioning equipment or system in Scottsdale, except portable or window units. Mechanical work must comply with the 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) and 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) with Scottsdale amendments, effective January 1, 2023. Most single-family residential mechanical work qualifies as a Minimum Permit — no plan review required. Minimum permit HVAC examples include: HVAC change out, ceiling fan (new installation).
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Mechanical work must comply with the 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) and 2021 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) with Scottsdale amendments (effective January 1, 2023)
- Submit permit application through Scottsdale SPUR portal
- Most single-family residential mechanical work qualifies as a Minimum Permit — no plan review required, apply online
- Portable or window A/C units are exempt from the mechanical permit requirement
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (mechanical scope)Scottsdale SFR permit application used for mechanical/HVAC work; submitted through SPUR portal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Permit (single discipline — mechanical) | $121 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). A plan review is not required for minimum permit residential mechanical work. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Minimum Combination Permit (all disciplines) | $379 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. |
Residential Solar PV Permit
VerifiedA residential solar permit is required for roof-mounted solar panel installations in Scottsdale. Roof-mounted solar panels that comply with Scottsdale's placement guidelines qualify for a Small Scope Review (SSR) rather than full plan review. All permits are applied for through the Scottsdale SPUR portal. Scottsdale publishes Solar Panel Placement Guidelines for Commercial Buildings and a 2021 Residential Solar-Ready Requirements document on its building codes page.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Apply through Scottsdale SPUR portal
- Roof-mounted solar panels complying with Scottsdale's placement guidelines qualify for Small Scope Review
- Projects in FEMA (A) flood zones or ESL zoning do not qualify for Small Scope Review
- Scottsdale publishes residential solar-ready requirements; all PV installations must comply with the 2020 NEC with Scottsdale amendments and the 2021 IRC
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (solar scope)SFR permit application used for solar PV; submitted through SPUR portal
- Optional2021 Residential Solar-Ready Requirements (PDF)Scottsdale's solar-ready requirements document; available on the Building Code Information page
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Residential permit fee | $168 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Solar Water Heaters | $90 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. Separate line from Solar Residential (PV). |
EV Charger / EVSE Permit (Electrical Minimum Permit)
VerifiedScottsdale has no dedicated EV charger/EVSE retrofit-permit fee line — confirmed on the City's Permit Services page, which lists explicit Minimum Permit examples (service upgrade/change out, panel relocation, temporary power pole, etc.) but does not name an EV charger circuit. An EV charging station (Level 2, up to 400 AMP service classification) installed on an existing single-family residence qualifies as an Electrical Minimum Permit — no plan review required, applied for online through Scottsdale SPUR — the same no-plan-review classification the electrical-permit entry documents for a service upgrade or change-out. Separately, Scottsdale has adopted 2021 IGCC EV-charging-infrastructure design requirements (branch-circuit capacity and accessible-space minimums) that apply to NEW commercial/multifamily construction, not to a homeowner's retrofit EV charger installation.
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- Electrical work must comply with the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) with Scottsdale amendments (effective January 1, 2023)
- Submit permit application through Scottsdale SPUR portal
- A dedicated EV charger circuit on an existing single-family residence qualifies as a Minimum Permit (no plan review required) provided any associated service upgrade/change-out does not exceed 400 AMP, consistent with the general Minimum Permit electrical classification documented in the electrical-permit entry
- New commercial or multifamily construction is separately subject to Scottsdale's adopted 2021 IGCC EV-charging-infrastructure requirements (e.g., a minimum branch-circuit capacity of 8.3 kVA / 40A at 208/240V per charging space, and a minimum percentage of EV-capable/accessible spaces) — this is a design/build standard enforced at building-permit plan review for new projects, not a separate retrofit permit fee
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (electrical scope)Scottsdale SFR permit application used for electrical work, including an EV charger circuit; submitted through SPUR portal — no dedicated EV-charger form exists
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Permit (single discipline — electrical) | $121 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. Show full citationHidePermit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026) — same fee and no-plan-review classification documented in the electrical-permit entry; applies to an EV charger circuit since no dedicated EV-charger fee line exists. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Minimum Combination Permit (all disciplines — electrical, mechanical, plumbing) | $379 | Applicable if the EV charger installation is combined with other trade work on the same permit |
Swimming Pool / Spa Permit
VerifiedA permit is required for the installation of swimming pools and spas in Scottsdale. Pool and spa work must comply with the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) with Scottsdale amendments. Apply through the Scottsdale SPUR portal using the Application & Checklist for Swimming Pool & Spa (available on the Planning and Development Forms page). Pools include a Planning Inspection Fee in addition to the base fee and square-footage-based fee. Demolition of a residential pool requires a separate demolition permit ($121).
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Apply through Scottsdale SPUR portal using the Application & Checklist for Swimming Pool & Spa
- Work must comply with the 2021 ISPSC with Scottsdale amendments (effective January 1, 2023)
- Provide site plan showing pool location on property
Required documents
- RequiredApplication & Checklist for Swimming Pool & SpaScottsdale's combined permit application and checklist for pools and spas; available on the Planning and Development Forms page
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pools & Spas Attached — permit fee | $237 base fee + $0.61/sq. ft. (pool area) + $195 Planning Inspection Fee | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. Show full citationHidePermit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). Verbatim: 'Pools & Spas Attached: $0.61 sq. ft. + Planning Insp. Fee** + Base Fee*'; Base Fee* = $237; Planning Inspection Fee** = $195. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Stand Alone Spas — permit fee | $237 base fee + $142 + $195 Planning Inspection Fee | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. Verbatim: 'Stand Alone Spas: $142 + Planning Insp. Fee** + Base Fee*'. |
| Demolition Permit — Pool | $121 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. Separate from the construction permit. |
Fence / Wall Permit
VerifiedA building permit is required for fences and walls in Scottsdale (except walls three feet or less, which do not require a permit, though a site plan is required for a courtesy plan review). Retaining walls require a separate permit. Fence walls are permitted under the residential building permit fee schedule using a linear-footage-based fee. A neighbor authorization form is available where a fence or wall is proposed on a shared property line.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Fences and walls over 3 feet in height require a building permit; walls 3 feet or less do not require a permit (but a site plan is required for courtesy plan review)
- Apply through Scottsdale SPUR portal
- Provide site plan showing fence/wall location and neighbor authorization if on a shared property line
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (fence/wall scope)SFR permit application form; submitted through SPUR
- OptionalFence/Wall on Property Line, Neighbor AuthorizationRequired when a fence or wall is proposed on a shared property line; available on the Planning and Development Forms page
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fence walls — permit fee | $237 base fee + $0.27/linear foot | Permit Fee Schedule – Single Family Residential, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Retaining Walls — permit fee | $237 base fee + $2.49/linear foot | Permit Fee Schedule – Single Family Residential, Resolution No. 13661. |
| Plan review fee (fence/retaining wall) | $121/hour + $0.18/linear foot (fence or retaining wall only) | Plan Review Fee Schedule – SFR, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026; rate unchanged from FY 2025/26 Resolution No. 13391). |
Water Heater Permit
VerifiedA plumbing permit is required for water heater replacement (gas or electric) in Scottsdale. Water heater replacements qualify as a Minimum Permit — no plan review required, apply and pay online through Scottsdale SPUR. The dedicated 'Water Heaters (except solar)' fee line in the miscellaneous fee schedule is $63.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Apply through Scottsdale SPUR portal
- Qualifies as a Minimum Permit — no plan review required
- Work must comply with the 2021 IPC with Scottsdale amendments
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (plumbing / water heater scope)SFR permit application for water heater replacement; submitted through SPUR
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater (except solar) — permit fee | $63 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). Verbatim: 'Water Heaters (except solar): $63.' Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
Demolition Permit
VerifiedDemolition permits are required for the demolition of any commercial and residential structures when the work proposed is not in conjunction with new construction. Demolition permits are NOT required for residential pools or for residential detached structures smaller than 200 sq. ft. To apply, submit the completed demolition application and supporting documents to the One Stop Shop permit services counter for review by a plans examiner. A pre-application meeting is required for demolition not in conjunction with new construction. For demolition concurrent with new construction, include the demo scope on the construction documents; a separate demolition permit is not required unless the demolition must occur before final plan approval of the new construction.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Bring the completed demolition application and supporting documents to the One Stop Shop (7447 E. Indian School Road) for review by a plans examiner
- For demolition not in conjunction with new construction: a pre-application meeting is required for review and approval of a post-demolition plan
- Demolition permits are not required for residential pools or for residential detached structures smaller than 200 sq. ft.
- For demolition concurrent with new construction: include the area of demolition on the construction documents; a separate demolition permit is not required unless demolition must occur before final plan approval
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Demolition PermitScottsdale's demolition permit application; available on the Planning and Development Forms page
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition Permit — commercial or residential structure | $379 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Demolition Permit — Pool | $121 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. |
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Permit
VerifiedScottsdale adopted Ordinance 4687 on September 30, 2025 to comply with Arizona state law HB2928, allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on single-family residential lots. Three types are permitted: Attached ADU, Detached ADU, and Restricted-Affordable Detached ADU. ADUs must contain their own kitchen and sanitary facilities and may be rented separately from the main house. Key limits: up to two ADUs per single-family lot (up to three on lots one acre or more if one is affordable); first ADU limited to 1,000 sq. ft. or 75% of main dwelling (whichever is less); second/third ADU limited to 500 sq. ft. The property owner must reside on-premises for any ADU that is rented, leased, or offered as a short-term rental. Apply through the Scottsdale SPUR portal or contact the One Stop Shop.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Lot must have an existing single-family residential dwelling; ADU can only be on a single-family residential lot
- First ADU: maximum of 1,000 sq. ft. or 75% of the existing main dwelling size, whichever is less
- Second (and third, if on 1+ acre with one affordable unit) ADU: maximum 500 sq. ft.
- Up to two ADUs per lot; up to three on lots one acre or more if at least one is affordable housing
- Property owner must reside on the premises for any ADU that is rented, leased, or used as a short-term rental
- ADU must have separately metered electrical and gas utility connections; water/sewer branch from existing tap on private property
- ADU cannot be sold separately from the main dwelling; lot cannot be subdivided to exclusively accommodate an ADU
- Detached ADU may not be in required front yard or side yard; in rear yard, minimum 5-foot side/rear setbacks apply
- Minimum 10-foot separation between an ADU and the main dwelling or another ADU on the lot
- Maximum 6 adults total (main dwelling + all ADUs combined)
- Each ADU requires a separate exterior entrance and a unique address
- Apply through Scottsdale SPUR portal; pre-application meeting available via eServices portal
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Single Family Residential (ADU scope)SFR permit application used for ADU construction; submitted through SPUR
- OptionalADU FAQs (PDF)City of Scottsdale ADU frequently asked questions document; available on the ADU page
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Family Detached Structure — permit fee (applies to detached ADU) | $237 base fee + $0.94/sq. ft. (livable area with A/C) + $0.54/sq. ft. (covered area non-A/C) + $195 Certificate of Occupancy + $379 GIS fee | Permit Fee Schedule – Single Family Residential, Resolution No. Show full citationHidePermit Fee Schedule – Single Family Residential, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27). Scottsdale does not publish a separate ADU-specific fee; detached ADUs are permitted as single-family detached structures. Attached ADUs are permitted under the addition/remodel fee structure. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
Sign Permit
VerifiedA sign permit is required for permanent signs in Scottsdale. Sign permit fees are based on the square footage of each sign, with a single base fee per permit application regardless of the number of signs. Temporary banners have a separate flat fee. Apply through the Scottsdale SPUR portal using the Sign Permit Application.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Apply through Scottsdale SPUR portal using the Sign Permit Application
- Provide sign dimensions (square footage per sign)
- Signs must comply with the Scottsdale Zoning Ordinance sign regulations
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Sign PermitScottsdale's sign permit application; available on the Planning and Development Forms page
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sign permit — base fee (applied once per application) | $237 base fee (applied once per permit application, not per sign) | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661 (FY 2026/27, effective July 1, 2026). |
| Sign permit — per-sign fee by size | 0–10 sq. ft.: $26/sign; 11–20 sq. ft.: $168/sign; 21–30 sq. ft.: $268/sign; 31 sq. ft. and over: $363/sign | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/fees. |
| Temporary Banner | $37 | Permit Fee Schedule – Miscellaneous, Resolution No. 13661. |
Commercial / Multi-Family Building Permit
VerifiedMajor commercial developments and multi-family residential projects in Scottsdale must go through the planning process before a permit is issued. Following planning entitlement, permit options are made available in the Scottsdale SPUR portal. Scottsdale reviews plans across five disciplines: Planning, Building, Engineering, Stormwater, and Fire. The 2021 International Green Construction Code (IgCC) is mandatory for new commercial construction (effective July 1, 2023). Commercial permit fees are square-footage-based: $237 base fee + $0.94/sq. ft. (A/C area) + $0.54/sq. ft. (covered non-A/C area) + $195 Certificate of Occupancy + $379 GIS fee. Plan review is billed separately at $0.54/sq. ft. (A/C) + $0.34/sq. ft. (non-A/C). Apply through Scottsdale SPUR; commercial applications may also use the Application for Commercial/Multi-Family Permit.
Verified 2026-07-16 · Source
Requirements
- Major commercial and multi-family projects must complete the planning/entitlement process before a permit is issued; start with the Pre-Application & Case Submittal process
- Submit through Scottsdale SPUR portal
- Plans reviewed across five disciplines: Planning, Building, Engineering, Stormwater, and Fire
- Comply with the 2021 IBC, 2021 IFC, 2021 IECC, 2021 IgCC (mandatory for new commercial construction), 2021 IFGC, 2021 IMC, and 2020 NEC, all with Scottsdale amendments
- 2021 IgCC (International Green Construction Code) is mandatory for new commercial construction as of July 1, 2023 — use the IgCC development review checklist and building plan review checklist
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Commercial/Multi-Family PermitScottsdale commercial permit application; available on the Planning and Development Forms page
- Required2021 IgCC Development Review ChecklistRequired for new commercial construction; available on the Building Code Information page
- Required2021 IgCC Building Plan Review ChecklistRequired for new commercial building plan submittals; available on the Building Code Information page
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Building Permit — base fee | $237 | Scottsdale Permit Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov (permit-fee-schedule---commercial.pdf). |
| Commercial Building Permit — area with A/C (livable) | $0.94 per sq. ft. | Scottsdale Permit Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. |
| Commercial Building Permit — covered area (non A/C) | $0.54 per sq. ft. | Scottsdale Permit Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. |
| Certificate of Occupancy | $195 | Scottsdale Permit Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. |
| GIS fee | $379 | Scottsdale Permit Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. |
| Lowest Floor Certificate Review | $363 | Scottsdale Permit Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. Applies to new commercial buildings subject to floodplain requirements. |
| Commercial Plan Review — livable area with A/C | $0.54 per sq. ft. | Scottsdale Plan Review Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. Source: scottsdaleaz.gov (plan-review-fee-schedule---commercial.pdf). |
| Commercial Plan Review — covered area (non A/C) | $0.34 per sq. ft. | Scottsdale Plan Review Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. |
| Green Compliance Review (IgCC) — Commercial and Multi-Family | $0.10 per sq. ft. (maximum $600) | Scottsdale Plan Review Fee Schedule – Commercial, Exhibit A, Resolution No. 13661, effective July 1, 2026. Applies to new commercial construction subject to the mandatory 2021 IgCC. |
Fire Sprinkler & Fire Alarm Permit
Scottsdale issues fire permits separately from building permits. The City's own single-family building permit form is titled 'Application for Single Family Residential (Excludes Demo, Fire, Pools, & Backflow Preventer)', and Planning and Development Services publishes a dedicated 'Application for Fire — Plan Review / Permitting' whose scope checkboxes are Access Control, Alarm, Alternative System, Hazardous Materials, Hood, LPG/Compressed Gas & Fuel Storage, Sprinkler Commercial, Sprinkler Residential, and Other. Fire is one of the five disciplines Scottsdale reviews plans against (Planning, Building, Engineering, Stormwater and Fire), and sprinkler, alarm, alternative extinguishing, smoke control, carbon monoxide detection and access control systems are also handled as Deferred Fire Submittals under the City's Digital Submittal Program. Scottsdale's local sprinkler mandate is unusually broad: under Scottsdale Revised Code 36-18 § 903.2 (Ordinance No. 4564), approved automatic sprinkler systems are required throughout all levels of all new Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R, S and U occupancies 'of more than zero (0) square feet.'
Reviewed 2026-08-16 · Source
Requirements
- Submit the 'Application for Fire — Plan Review / Permitting' with the applicable scope checked: Access Control, Alarm, Alternative System, Hazardous Materials, Hood, LPG/Compressed Gas & Fuel Storage, Sprinkler Commercial, Sprinkler Residential, or Other
- The form directs applicants to complete and submit it online at eservices.scottsdaleaz.gov/bldgresources/Plans; all permit requests are filed through the Scottsdale SPUR portal
- The property owner must designate an agent as the applicant, and plans are released only to the person(s) listed as the applicant contact; the application expires 180 days after the last plan submittal
- New construction: approved automatic sprinkler systems throughout all levels of all new Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R, S and U occupancies of more than zero square feet, subject to 14 listed accessory-structure exceptions (SRC 36-18 § 903.2, Ordinance No. 4564)
- Change of occupancy: an approved automatic sprinkler system is required 'in any building that has a change in occupancy as defined in the building code' (SRC 36-18 § 903.2, item 5)
- Existing buildings — retrofit triggers: where additions, alterations or repairs within a twelve-month period exceed 50 percent of the value of an existing building or structure, the building must be made to conform to the requirements for new buildings; the exception requires an approved fire sprinkler system when work exceeds 10 percent of the value for an existing Group A (assembly) building, or 25 percent of the value for an existing building of other occupancies (SRC 36-18 § 903.2.15)
- The City's Fire Code page states that adding 25 percent or more of the existing structure requires fire sprinklers to be installed in the entire structure
- Systems must be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13, 13-R or 13-D as modified by the fire department interpretation and applications manual (SRC 36-18 § 903.3); the City publishes its own interpretations of NFPA 13, 13D, 13R and 72
- Complete the Fire Sprinkler Valuation Worksheet — SFR or Commercial — published on the City's Fire Code and Planning and Development Forms pages
- 'No-plan permit' path: work limited to adding or altering 0–5 sprinklers in an existing sprinklered building, or 0–5 fire alarm initiating devices and notification appliances in a building with an existing fire alarm system (or a cellular communicator installation), may use the signed Five or Less Fire Sprinkler Declaration or Five or Less Fire Alarm Declaration instead of a full plan submittal
- Under both Five or Less declarations, piping and wiring may not be concealed until after the rough inspection is passed, and manufacturer's specifications for installed equipment must be available at the time of inspection
- Fire department connections must be located in accordance with Section 912 or as approved by the fire code official; fire hose threads and fittings used with automatic sprinkler systems must be national standard thread (NST) (SRC 36-18 §§ 903.3.6, 903.3.7)
Required documents
- RequiredApplication for Fire — Plan Review / Permitting (APP_PERMIT_FIRE)Scottsdale Planning and Development Services fire permit application; scope checkboxes cover Access Control, Alarm, Alternative System, Hazardous Materials, Hood, LPG/Compressed Gas & Fuel Storage, Sprinkler Commercial, Sprinkler Residential, and Other. Submit online at eservices.scottsdaleaz.gov/bldgresources/Plans.
- OptionalFire Sprinkler Valuation Worksheet — SFR (XLS) or Commercial (XLS)City-published worksheets used to establish the valuation of a fire sprinkler system; linked from the City's Fire Code page and the Planning and Development Forms page.
- OptionalFive or Less Fire Sprinkler DeclarationSigned by the Arizona-licensed installing contractor to obtain a 'no-plan permit' when the scope is limited to adding or altering 0–5 sprinklers in an existing sprinklered building; certifies compliance with NFPA 13, 13R or 13D and with ten listed criteria.
- OptionalFive or Less Fire Alarm DeclarationSigned by the licensed installing contractor to obtain a 'no-plan permit' when the scope is limited to adding or altering 0–5 fire alarm initiating devices and notification appliances in a building with an existing fire alarm system, or a cellular communicator installation; certifies compliance with NFPA 72.
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|
Change of Use / Change of Occupant Permit
Scottsdale's own name for this is a 'Change of Occupant Permit,' priced at $195 in the adopted Miscellaneous permit fee schedule, alongside a separate $195 'Certificate of Occupancy (visual inspection only)' line. Where the change of use also involves construction, the Commercial Remodel (Existing) or Commercial T.I. permit fees apply. A change of occupancy classification is reviewed under the 2021 International Existing Building Code, adopted by Scottsdale Revised Code § 31-120 (Ordinance No. 4550 / Resolution No. 12504). Applications are filed through the Scottsdale SPUR portal.
Reviewed 2026-08-16 · Source
Requirements
- File through the Scottsdale SPUR portal — all permit requests require a completed application submitted through SPUR (cityofscottsdaleaz-energovweb.tylerhost.net); create a SPUR account, then search the permit type or keywords in the portal's search field
- A change of occupancy classification is reviewed under the International Existing Building Code, 2021 Edition, adopted by reference as part of the City Building Code by SRC § 31-120 (Ordinance No. 4550, Resolution No. 12504)
- A Certificate of Occupancy is issued when all required inspections have been performed and no violations of the codes and ordinances enforced by the City of Scottsdale are found
- SRC 36-18 § 903.2 item 5 (Ordinance No. 4564) requires an approved automatic fire sprinkler system in any building that has a change in occupancy as defined in the building code — confirm sprinkler status before committing to a change of use
- Where the change of use involves construction, the applicable commercial permit is required in addition to or instead of the Change of Occupant Permit (Commercial Remodel (Existing), Commercial T.I. (New) & Multi-Family Build Out, or Commercial Vanilla Shell T.I.)
Required documents
- RequiredScottsdale SPUR permit applicationAll permit requests, including a Change of Occupant Permit, are submitted through the Scottsdale SPUR (Smart Planning, Use and Regulations) portal. The City publishes no separate downloadable change-of-occupant application form on its Planning and Development Forms page.
- OptionalIrrevocable Letter of Credit (for Temporary Certificate of Occupancy only)City-published form required where a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy is sought before completion of the entire work covered by a permit.
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Change of Occupant Permit | $195 | Permit Fee Schedule — Miscellaneous, Exhibit A to Resolution No. 13661, page 12 of 23, effective July 1, 2026, under the 'Miscellaneous Permit Fees' heading. |
| Certificate of Occupancy (visual inspection only) | $195 | Permit Fee Schedule — Miscellaneous, Exhibit A to Resolution No. 13661, page 12 of 23, effective July 1, 2026. A separate line from the Change of Occupant Permit on the same page, at the same amount — easy to conflate. Read from a rendered image of the PDF page. |
| Certificate of Occupancy issued with a commercial permit | $195 | Permit Fee Schedule — Commercial, Exhibit A to Resolution No. Show full citationHidePermit Fee Schedule — Commercial, Exhibit A to Resolution No. 13661, pages 8 and 9 of 23, effective July 1, 2026. A $195 Certificate of Occupancy line appears under Commercial Building Permit, Commercial Addition, Commercial Remodel (Existing), and Commercial T.I. (New) & Multi-Family Build Out; the corresponding line under Shell Only for Commercial & Multi-Family and under Commercial Vanilla Shell T.I. is 'Certificate of Shell — $195.' Read from rendered images of both PDF pages. |
| Commercial Remodel (Existing) — where the change of use involves construction | $237 base fee + $0.94 per sq. ft. of area with A/C × 30% + $0.54 per sq. ft. of covered non-A/C area + $195 Certificate of Occupancy | Permit Fee Schedule — Commercial, Exhibit A to Resolution No. 13661, page 8 of 23, effective July 1, 2026.ed image of the PDF page. |
| Commercial T.I. (New) & Multi-Family Build Out — alternative construction path | $237 base fee + $0.94 per sq. ft. of area with A/C × 30% + $0.54 per sq. ft. of covered non-A/C area + $195 Certificate of Occupancy | Permit Fee Schedule — Commercial, Exhibit A to Resolution No. 13661, page 9 of 23, effective July 1, 2026. Read from a rendered image of the PDF page. |
| Active Permits Records Change — Commercial | $195 | Permit Fee Schedule — Miscellaneous, Exhibit A to Resolution No. 13661, page 12 of 23. Recorded because a change of occupant on an active permit is a records change rather than a new permit; the residential equivalent is $121. |
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-16.
Fee schedules
Codes & ordinances
Department & other records
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 Scottsdale building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.