You are viewing the permanent link for the record currently in effect, published 2026-08-16.
Sedona building permits
VerifiedSedona, Arizona — as published 2026-08-16.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Codes adopted
Permit types & fees
Single-Family Residential Building Permit (New Construction)
VerifiedRequired for new single-family and duplex dwelling construction within Sedona city limits (both the Yavapai County and Coconino County portions of the city). Reviewed against the 2018 IRC and City of Sedona amendments (effective for submittals on/after October 25, 2019). Applications are submitted at the Community Development front counter with 3 complete sets of plans plus 1 electronic link.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for new single-family and duplex dwelling construction within Sedona city limits
- Plans must comply with the 2018 IRC and City of Sedona amendments, including Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria (115 mph Vult wind speed; Seismic Design Category C; 25 psf ground snow load; 12-inch frost line depth; 16°F winter design temperature; moderate-to-heavy termite potential)
- A soils classification prepared by an Arizona-registered geotechnical engineer is required for all new structures (waived for non-habitable accessory structures 400 sq ft or less, with a recorded non-conversion agreement)
- A soils engineering & engineering geology report is additionally required if the soils classification shows a plasticity index of 15 or greater
- Unless exempt under A.R.S. § 32-1121 (owner-occupied, not for sale/rent), all work must be performed by an Arizona-licensed general or specialty contractor
- 3 complete sets of plans plus 1 electronic link required; plan sheets no larger than 30" x 42"
Required documents
- RequiredResidential Building Permit ApplicationCity of Sedona Single-Family Residential Building Permit Packet application, submitted at the Community Development front counter (102 Roadrunner Dr.) or downloaded from sedonaaz.gov/cd
- OptionalOwner-Builder/Developer StatementRequired if claiming the A.R.S. § 32-1121 owner-builder exemption from contractor licensing
- RequiredSite and Grading PlanMinimum 1"=20' scale; north arrow, property lines, easements, setbacks, existing/proposed structures, utilities, drainage, cut/fill quantities, finished floor elevations
- RequiredSoils Classification / Soils Engineering & Geology ReportPrepared by an Arizona-registered geotechnical engineer; full engineering report required if plasticity index is 15 or greater
- RequiredColor and Material Sample Sheet8.5x11 paint/material samples, light-reflecting-value compliant
- RequiredOutdoor Lighting Application (Residential)City of Sedona outdoor lighting compliance form
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (Based on Valuation) | Per City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule, Valuation/Permit Fee Schedule | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 — building permit fees for construction valuation are calculated per the Consolidated Fee Schedule's Valuation/Permit Fee Schedule table, not the ICC codes' own fee tables |
| Plan Review Fee | 65% of the calculated Building Permit Fee | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 — collected in full at time of application submittal; a separate, additional fee from the building permit fee itself |
Residential Remodel / Addition Building Permit
VerifiedRequired for room additions, remodels, and structural/plumbing/electrical/mechanical alteration work to existing one- and two-family dwellings in Sedona, including installation or relocation of water heaters, furnaces, evaporative coolers, air conditioners, electrical outlets, lighting, wiring, panels, or services, and replacement of a wood/asphalt shingle roof with a tile roof. Reviewed against the 2018 IRC as adopted and amended by the City of Sedona.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for remodels or additions involving structural, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work
- Specifically required for: installation/relocation of water heaters, furnaces, evaporative coolers, air conditioners; relocation/installation of electrical outlets, lighting, wiring, panels, or services; and replacement of a wood or asphalt shingle roof with a tile roof
- Exempt work includes: interior painting/paneling/finish work; repair/replacement of non-structural glass, doors, hardware, cabinets, carpeting, or flooring; portable shelves/cases/partitions under 5'-9" high; one-story detached sheds/playhouses under 120 sq ft and 7 ft high with no electrical/plumbing; fences/walls not over 30 inches high outside flood hazard areas
- Construction Envelope Fence (CEF) required to protect native vegetation during construction
- Plans must comply with City of Sedona Climatic/Geographic Design Criteria (115 mph Vult wind, Seismic Design Category C)
Required documents
- RequiredResidential Building Permit ApplicationSubmitted at the Community Development front counter or downloaded from sedonaaz.gov/cd
- RequiredConstruction Envelope Fence (CEF) InstructionsNative vegetation preservation fencing plan, part of the Remodel/Addition Permit Packet
- RequiredColor and Materials Sample SheetExterior color/material compliance samples
- RequiredStormwater Pollution Prevention GuidelinesGeneral stormwater compliance information included in the packet
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (Based on Valuation) | Per City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule, Valuation/Permit Fee Schedule | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 — remodel/addition fees are calculated on construction valuation the same as new construction |
| Plan Review Fee | 65% of the calculated Building Permit Fee | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 |
Fence Building Permit
VerifiedRequired for fences and freestanding walls in Sedona above the City's narrow no-permit exemption threshold (30 inches). Governed by Sedona City Code § 15.05.040(P) and Land Development Code Articles 6 and 9, with dedicated prescriptive fence/wall design details published by the City.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for fences and freestanding walls not supporting a structure, except those 30 inches high or less located outside flood hazard areas (exempt)
- No fence may exceed 6 feet high unless approved by the Zoning Inspector
- Solid, opaque fences cannot exceed 36 inches high within front or street-side setbacks
- Fences cannot obstruct or alter drainage swales or washes
- Fences in excess of 6 feet require design/wind-load calculations by an Arizona-licensed engineer
- Materials/colors must have a light reflecting value (LRV) not exceeding 38% (Munsell value) to blend with the natural environment; chain-link must be painted or vinyl-coated
- 4 complete sets of plans required, drawn to scale and dimensioned
Required documents
- RequiredFence Building Permit ApplicationCity of Sedona Fence Building Permit Packet application
- RequiredPrescriptive Detail / Wall Specs DetailCity of Sedona prescriptive fence and wall design details (in lieu of engineered calculations, for fences within prescriptive limits)
- RequiredSample Site PlanShowing exact location, height, and materials of the proposed fence, property lines, easements, and edge of street pavement
- RequiredColor and Material Sample Sheet8.5x11 paint/material samples demonstrating LRV compliance (38% or less)
- OptionalOwner-Builder/Developer StatementRequired if claiming the A.R.S. § 32-1121 owner-builder exemption
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plan Review Deposit — Fences | $50 | City of Sedona Fence Building Permit Packet, 'Plan Review Deposit' section; Show full citationHideCity of Sedona Fence Building Permit Packet, 'Plan Review Deposit' section; this deposit is required at time of application and usually covers the total permit cost. Additional plan review/permit/grading fees per the City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule may apply if the project involves substantial grading, retaining walls, or plan revisions |
Solar / Photovoltaic Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of Photovoltaic Electrical Power Systems in Sedona. Governed by the 2017 NEC as adopted and amended by the City of Sedona, with Sedona-specific aesthetic requirements (panel frame color, light-reflectance limits) tied to the City's scenic-beauty provisions.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Photovoltaic permit required for all rooftop or ground-mount solar PV installations
- 2 full sets of plans plus 2 additional site plans required
- Site plan must show locations of array, inverter, DC disconnect, PV system utility disconnect, and battery banks (if used)
- One-line and three-line electrical diagrams required
- Roof plan required showing panel layout, wiring method, make/model of panels, panel wattage and total array wattage
- Roof load information (weight of rooftop equipment per sq ft) and mounting/attachment details required
- Solar panel frames must be black matte finish (or natural aluminum/silver with perimeter frames painted black); all hardware, brackets, and support structures must meet a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 38% or less; conduit and panel boxes must be painted to match the adjacent wall/roof surface
Required documents
- RequiredPhotovoltaic Permit ApplicationCity of Sedona Solar/Photovoltaic Permit Packet application
- RequiredSite PlanShowing array, inverter, DC disconnect, utility disconnect, and battery bank locations
- RequiredOne-Line and Three-Line DiagramsElectrical system diagrams per 2017 NEC as adopted by the City of Sedona
- RequiredInverter and Module Cut SheetsManufacturer specification sheets for inverter(s) and PV modules; charge controller/battery charger cut sheets as applicable
- RequiredRoof Plan and ElevationsPanel layout, wiring method, mounting/attachment details, panel angle and total height
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photovoltaic Permit Fee | $75.00 for the first 10 kW, plus $5.00 for each additional kW over 10 kW | City of Sedona Solar/Photovoltaic Permit Packet, fee schedule stated directly on the application form |
Solar Water Heater Permit
VerifiedRequired for installation of solar water heating systems in Sedona, published by the City as a distinct permit type from the standard photovoltaic (electric) solar permit, and processed through the same building permit application and A.R.S. § 9-836 review time frame as other residential permit types.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for solar water heater installation, separate from the photovoltaic (electric) solar permit type
- Site plan and equipment specification sheets required for the solar thermal collector and storage tank installation
- Unless exempt under A.R.S. § 32-1121, installation must be performed by an Arizona-licensed contractor
Required documents
- RequiredSolar Water Heater Permit ApplicationCity of Sedona Solar Water Heater Permit Packet application, submitted at the Community Development front counter or downloaded from sedonaaz.gov/cd
- RequiredEquipment Cut SheetsManufacturer specification sheets for the solar collector, storage tank, and associated plumbing/mechanical components
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (Based on Valuation) | Per City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule, Valuation/Permit Fee Schedule | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 — no separately itemized flat fee for solar water heaters was found distinct from the general valuation-based building permit fee structure that governs plumbing/mechanical equipment installations |
| Plan Review Fee | 65% of the calculated Building Permit Fee | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 |
Swimming Pool, Spa / Hot Tub Permit
VerifiedRequired for construction of swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs (and their associated safety barriers) in Sedona, governed by the 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as adopted and amended by the City, plus IBC/IRC pool-barrier provisions.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for in-ground and above-ground swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, and fountains, including associated pool safety barriers
- Exempt: prefabricated above-ground pools/spas less than 18 inches deep and less than 8 feet in any dimension, accessory to Group R-3 occupancies
- Unless exempt under A.R.S. § 32-1121, must be constructed by a licensed swimming pool contractor (public/semi-public pools always require a licensed swimming pool contractor)
- Professional engineering/architectural design is recommended but not required for private pools; the plans examiner may require engineering for specific structural elements
- 4 complete sets of plans required, drawn to scale and dimensioned, including site/grading plan, pool location, fence/gate locations, and setback dimensions
- A soils classification prepared by an Arizona-registered geotechnical engineer is required for all new structures
Required documents
- RequiredResidential Building Permit Application (Pool/Spa)City of Sedona Swimming Pool and Spa Building Permit Packet application
- RequiredColor and Material Sample Sheet (for pool barriers)Required for pool safety barrier materials/colors
- RequiredSite and Grading PlanPool location, fences, gates, distance from property lines, cut/fill quantities, pool equipment location/screening
- OptionalOwner-Builder/Developer StatementRequired if claiming the A.R.S. § 32-1121 owner-builder exemption
- RequiredConstruction Envelope Fence (CEF) InstructionsNative vegetation preservation fencing plan
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| In-Ground Swimming Pool Plan Review Deposit / Permit Fee | $200 total ($50 deposit due at application) | City of Sedona Swimming Pool and Spa Building Permit Packet, 'Plan Review Deposit & Fees' section — deposit usually covers the total permit cost; additional fees may apply for substantial grading, retaining walls, or plan revisions |
| Above-Ground Pool, Spa, Hot Tub, or Fountain Plan Review Deposit / Permit Fee | $50 total ($50 deposit due at application) | City of Sedona Swimming Pool and Spa Building Permit Packet |
Commercial / Residential Demolition Permit
VerifiedRequired for demolition of any residential or commercial structure in Sedona. Structures over 50 years old require additional documentation under Land Development Code § 8.7.F(3) (historic preservation review).
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required before demolishing a residential or commercial structure within Sedona city limits
- If the structure is more than 50 years old, documentation pursuant to Land Development Code § 8.7.F(3) must be provided (historic preservation review)
- 4 sets of a plat of survey or site plan identifying all structures on the property, specifically what is to be demolished, protective site fencing and gate locations, spoils locations/types, and erosion control measures
- Utility disconnection letters/approvals required for all applicable utilities (electric, water, sewer, septic, gas) before demolition
- A description of the post-demolition site condition and any proposed redevelopment (with anticipated start date) must be provided
- Demolishing a legal nonconforming structure or use may remove the property's legal nonconforming status — applicants are advised to meet with staff to discuss potential effects before proceeding
Required documents
- RequiredCommercial/Residential Demolition Building Permit ApplicationCity of Sedona demolition permit application; $50.00 fee stated directly on the form
- RequiredStructure Demolition ChecklistCity of Sedona checklist of submittal requirements and conditions for all structure demolition permits (does not apply to interior-only demolitions)
- RequiredPlat of Survey or Site Plan (4 sets)Showing all structures, demolition scope, protective fencing, spoils, and erosion control
- RequiredUtility Disconnection LettersConfirmation of disconnection for electric, water (city or well), sewer, septic, and gas as applicable
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial/Residential Demolition Building Permit Application Fee | $50.00 | Stated directly on the City of Sedona Commercial/Residential Demolition Building Permit Application form |
Manufactured or Factory-Built Home Permit
VerifiedRequired for placement of manufactured homes, mobile homes, and factory-built buildings within Sedona city limits. Construction/installation standards for the unit itself are regulated directly by the State of Arizona; the City issues a separate permit for on-site placement, foundation, and site-related zoning compliance under Sedona City Code § 15.05.090.
Verified 2026-07-06 · Source
Requirements
- Manufactured homes must comply with the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 and Title VI of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as implemented by the Arizona Office of Manufactured Housing (A.R.S. Title 41, Chapter 16)
- Mobile homes (built before June 15, 1976, on a permanent chassis) and factory-built buildings are separately defined and regulated under Sedona City Code § 15.05.090
- City permit required for site placement: foundation/tie-down, utility connections, and zoning compliance (setbacks, lot coverage) distinct from the unit's state-regulated construction standards
- Recreational vehicles are explicitly excluded from the manufactured/mobile home definitions and are not eligible for this permit type
Required documents
- RequiredManufactured or Factory-Built Home Permit ApplicationCity of Sedona Manufactured or Factory Built Home Permit Packet application
- RequiredSite PlanShowing placement location, foundation/tie-down details, setbacks, and utility connection points
- RequiredState Insignia / Installation DocumentationDocumentation of compliance with Arizona Office of Manufactured Housing construction/installation standards
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (Based on Valuation) | Per City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule, Valuation/Permit Fee Schedule | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 — no separately itemized flat fee for manufactured/factory-built home placement was found distinct from the general valuation-based building permit fee structure |
| Plan Review Fee | 65% of the calculated Building Permit Fee | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 |
EV Charger / Electric Vehicle Charging Station Permit
VerifiedSedona does not publish a standalone electrical permit type or a distinct EV-charger/EVSE fee line. Per the City's own Permits page and the Residential Remodel/Addition Building Permit Packet (which this record already documents as covering all electrical work in the City, including 'relocation/installation of electrical outlets, lighting, wiring, panels, or services'), installing a new circuit for an EV charging station is processed as electrical work under the Residential Remodel/Addition Building Permit -- the same permit type used for panel upgrades, new circuits, and other electrical alterations to one- and two-family dwellings. No City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule line item, permit packet, or press material naming 'EV charger,' 'EVSE,' or 'electric vehicle charging station' as a distinct permit type or fee could be found; the City is not a listed SolarAPP+ (gosolarapp.org) participating jurisdiction.
Verified 2026-07-20 · Source
Requirements
- A building permit is required for installation of a new dedicated circuit or panel work for an EV charger, processed under the Residential Remodel/Addition Building Permit (Sedona does not publish a distinct 'electrical permit' or 'EV charger permit' type)
- If the EV charger is a UL-listed unit plugging into an existing 120V receptacle with no new wiring, industry-standard practice (and the City's general work-exemption pattern for cosmetic/no-new-circuit work) suggests no permit would be triggered -- confirm directly with Community Development for any specific installation
- Unless exempt under A.R.S. § 32-1121 (owner-occupied, not for sale/rent), the electrical work must be performed by an Arizona-licensed contractor
- If the installation includes new structural work (e.g., a carport to house the charger), the Single-Family Residential Building Permit or Remodel/Addition process applies to that structural scope as well
Required documents
- RequiredResidential Building Permit Application (Remodel/Addition)Same application used for other electrical alteration work in Sedona; submitted at the Community Development front counter (102 Roadrunner Dr.) or downloaded from sedonaaz.gov/cd
- RequiredElectrical Circuit / Load CalculationDocumentation of the new EV charging circuit, breaker sizing, and panel capacity, consistent with the City's general electrical-alteration submittal expectations
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (Based on Valuation) | Per City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule, Valuation/Permit Fee Schedule | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 -- no separately itemized flat fee for EV charger/EVSE installation was found distinct from the general valuation-based building permit fee structure that governs other… Show full citationHideSedona City Code § 15.05.060 -- no separately itemized flat fee for EV charger/EVSE installation was found distinct from the general valuation-based building permit fee structure that governs other electrical alteration work processed under the Residential Remodel/Addition Building Permit |
| Plan Review Fee | 65% of the calculated Building Permit Fee | Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 |
Commercial Building Permit
VerifiedRequired for new commercial building construction, multi-family residential construction, and additions to existing commercial buildings in Sedona, per the City's dedicated Commercial Building Permit Packet. Reviewed against the 2018 IBC and City of Sedona amendments. Unlike Sedona's residential permit types (which all share a flat 21/21/42 business-day A.R.S. § 9-836 time frame), the Commercial Building Permit Packet publishes a project-size-tiered review schedule, and larger/qualifying projects require Design Review approval through the City's Development Review process (Land Development Code Article 8, Table 8.2) rather than through a separate 'Design Review Board' -- Sedona has no such board. Interior-only remodel work to an existing commercial building is instead processed under the separate Tenant Improvement Permit (see commercial-tenant-improvement-permit).
Verified 2026-08-01 · Source
Requirements
- Building permit required for new commercial building construction, new multi-family residential construction, and additions/alterations to existing commercial buildings within Sedona city limits
- Design Review approval by the City's Planning and Zoning Commission is required for all new commercial projects and additions to existing structures greater than 2,000 sq ft or containing 5 or more dwelling units or guest rooms; projects below that threshold may be approved administratively by zoning staff -- this is conducted as part of Development Review under Land Development Code Article 8.4.A and the thresholds in LDC Table 8.2, not by a separate 'Design Review Board' (none exists in Sedona's LDC)
- Fire sprinkler systems are required for all new commercial and multi-family structures; for additions/remodels to an existing non-sprinklered structure, sprinklers are required if the valuation of the proposed improvements exceeds 10% of the valuation of the existing structure. Fire Department plan review is conducted by the Sedona Fire District (2860 Southwest Drive, 928-282-6800)
- State regulations require professional (architect/designer) design and construction drawings for any structure exceeding 3,000 sq ft or with an occupant load of more than 20; professional engineering is additionally required for electrical services greater than 600 amps (single phase) or 225 amps, 120/208 volts (three phase)
- All new structures must be built by a licensed general contractor; improvements to existing structures may use specialty contractors hired individually by the owner
- Exterior building colors and materials must meet the City's light-reflectance-value (LRV)/chroma standards (LDC § 5.7.F) so the building blends with the natural red-rock landscape; reflective or shiny surfaces (including untreated metallic surfaces) are prohibited; an Outdoor Lighting Application inventory is required per LDC § 5.8 (fully shielded fixtures; maximum 70,000 initial lumens per net acre for non-residential uses, 3,850 lumens/acre if only partially shielded; maximum 4,000K color temperature, 2,700K for Class 2 security lighting)
- A soil and geology report identifying areas of unstable slope may be required for any portion of the site with a slope greater than 30%
- A property that is a historic building or located within a Historic District is subject to additional approvals
- 3 complete sets of plans plus 1 electronic link; site and grading plan at minimum 1"=20' scale; floor, foundation, framing, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing plans, exterior elevations, and building cross-sections required
- Development Impact Fees (non-residential) and, where the property connects to City sewer, a Sewer Capacity Fee based on Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFUs) are due at/before permit issuance in addition to the building permit and plan review fees
- A Notice of Intent to comply with the City's general stormwater pollution prevention guidelines may be used for projects disturbing less than one acre that are not part of a larger common development
Required documents
- RequiredCommercial Building Permit ApplicationCity of Sedona Commercial Building Permit Packet application (item 1 of the packet contents list), with New Construction / Demo / Addition / Alteration / Tenant Improvement checkboxes
- RequiredCommercial Preliminary QuestionnairePacket item 2 -- use/occupancy questionnaire submitted with the application
- RequiredColor and Material Sample SheetPacket item 3 -- 8.5x11 exterior color/material samples demonstrating LRV/chroma compliance
- RequiredOutdoor Lighting Application (Commercial)Packet item 4 -- City of Sedona commercial outdoor lighting compliance form, per LDC § 5.8
- OptionalDevelopment Impact Fees SchedulePacket item 5 -- informational schedule of applicable non-residential Development Impact Fees
- RequiredConstruction Envelope Fencing InstructionsPacket item 6 -- native vegetation preservation fencing plan, same CEF requirement used on Sedona's residential remodel/addition and pool permits
- RequiredStormwater Pollution Prevention Guidelines / Notice of IntentPacket item 7 -- general stormwater compliance guidelines or Notice of Intent for sites disturbing less than one acre
- OptionalSign Permit ApplicationPacket item 8 -- required only if new signage is part of the project scope
- RequiredSite and Grading PlanMinimum 1"=20' scale; property lines, easements, setbacks, existing/proposed structures, utilities, drainage, cut/fill quantities
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit Fee (Based on Valuation) | $30.00 (valuation $1-$500); $30.00 for the first $500 plus $2.75 per additional $1,000 to $2,000; $62.25 for the first $2,000 plus $12.50 per additional $1,000 to $25,000; $349.75 for the first $25,000 plus $9.00 per additional $1,000 to $50,000; $574.75 for the first $50,000 plus $6.25 per additional $1,000 to $100,000; $887.25 for the first $100,000 plus $5.00 per additional $1,000 to $500,000; $2,887.25 for the first $500,000 plus $4.25 per additional $1,000 to $1,000,000; $5,012.25 for the first $1,000,000 plus $2.75 per additional $1,000 thereafter; Minimum Building Permit Fee $50.00 | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule (Community Development, Valuation/Permit Fee Schedule), cross-referenced by Sedona City Code § 15.05.060; the same table applies to both residential and commercial construction |
| Plan Review Fee | 65% of the calculated Building Permit Fee | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule; Sedona City Code § 15.05.060 -- collected in full at time of application submittal |
| Development Impact Fee -- Commercial (non-residential, per sq ft of floor area) | $18.47 per sq ft (Commercial); other non-residential categories on the same schedule: Industrial $4.35/sq ft, Office/Other Services $9.55/sq ft, Institutional $12.17/sq ft, Lodging $8,863 per room | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule, Development Impact Fees -- Non-Residential table; payable upon permit issuance per the Commercial Building Permit Packet |
| Sewer Capacity Fee (2025), if connecting to City sewer | 0-8 WSFUs: $4,753.00; 8.1-17 WSFUs: $12,160.00; 17.1-29 WSFUs: $21,579.00; 29.1-42 WSFUs: $32,355.00; 42.1-55 WSFUs: $43,386.00; over 55 WSFUs: $848.55 per additional WSFU (Water Supply Fixture Unit) | City of Sedona Commercial Building Permit Packet, Sewer Capacity Fee (2025) table; individual on-site wastewater treatment systems instead require a separate county permit (Yavapai or Coconino County Environmental Services) |
Tenant Improvement Permit
VerifiedRequired for interior remodeling of an existing commercial building in Sedona -- published by the City as a distinct permit packet, separate and separately linked from the Commercial Building Permit Packet used for new construction, with its own scope limits and its own flat (non-tiered) review timeline. A Tenant Improvement Permit does NOT authorize any exterior modifications to the existing structure; those instead fall under the Commercial Building Permit (Alteration/Addition scope). Sedona also separately publishes a Tenant Occupancy Permit for any new business occupying commercial space or an existing business changing locations, which covers only minor work (relocating a register/counter, display cases, or up to 3 light fixtures with no ceiling/wall rewiring) -- any work beyond that narrow scope requires this Tenant Improvement Permit instead.
Verified 2026-08-01 · Source
Requirements
- Tenant Improvement Permit required for remodeling the interior of an existing commercial building; this permit does not authorize any exterior modifications to the existing structure (exterior work requires the Commercial Building Permit's Alteration/Addition scope instead)
- Applied for on the same Commercial Building Permit Application used for new construction, with the 'Tenant Improvement' box checked rather than 'New Construction'
- Fire sprinklers are required if the valuation of the proposed improvements exceeds 10% of the valuation of the existing structure
- Per ADAAG (Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines), at least 20% of the cost of the alterations must be used to remove existing accessibility barriers
- Professional (architect/designer) design and construction drawings required for any structure exceeding 3,000 sq ft or with an occupant load of more than 20; professional engineering required for electrical services greater than 600 amps (single phase) or 225 amps, 120/208 volts (three phase)
- 3 sets of plans plus electronic link, minimum sheet size 18" x 24", drawn to scale and dimensioned; floor, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing plans required
- A Color and Material Sample Sheet is required only if exterior painting occurs; an Outdoor Lighting Application and/or Sign Permit Application are required only if those scopes apply
- A final inspection must be requested and passed, with Certificate of Occupancy issued (Building Department and Sedona Fire District sign-off), before opening for business or occupying the space; operating without a valid Certificate of Occupancy is illegal
- Progress inspections must occur at least every 180 days to keep the permit active; the permit expires 180 days after issuance unless work has commenced and is being diligently pursued to completion
Required documents
- RequiredCommercial Building Permit ApplicationSame application form used for new commercial construction, with 'Tenant Improvement' selected instead of 'New Construction'
- RequiredCommercial Preliminary QuestionnaireUse/occupancy questionnaire submitted with the application
- OptionalColor and Material Sample SheetRequired only if the tenant improvement scope includes exterior painting
- OptionalOutdoor Lighting Application (Commercial)Required only if the scope includes new/altered exterior lighting
- OptionalSign Permit ApplicationRequired only if new signage is part of the project scope
- RequiredConstruction / Floor, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing Plans3 sets plus electronic link, minimum 18" x 24" sheet size, drawn to scale and dimensioned
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tenant Improvement Building Permit Fee | $50.00 per sq. ft. or actual construction cost estimate, as determined by the Building Official | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule, 'Other Inspections and Fees' table, 'Tenant Improvements' line item, quoted verbatim from the current 'Current Base Fee' column. Show full citationHideCity of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule, 'Other Inspections and Fees' table, 'Tenant Improvements' line item, quoted verbatim from the current 'Current Base Fee' column. The document does not explicitly state whether the $50.00/sq ft figure is itself the permit fee or an assumed construction-valuation-per-square-foot used as the input to the standard percentage-of-valuation Building Permit Fee table (Sedona City Code § 15.05.060) when no contractor cost estimate is provided -- both readings are consistent with how the figure is presented, and the Fee Schedule itself does not resolve the ambiguity. Confirm the applicable calculation method with Community Development (928-282-1154) before budgeting. |
| Permit Extension Fee | $50.00 | City of Sedona Tenant Improvement Permit Packet, stated directly on the application: 'The fee for an extension is $50.00' |
Sign Permit
VerifiedRequired by the City of Sedona Community Development Department 'when installation of a new permanent or temporary sign or substantial alteration of an existing sign is proposed.' Sedona prices signs per sign rather than by valuation: $150 per permanent sign, $50 for a directory sign panel replacement, $75 per sign where the property has a Master Sign Plan approved after October 2017, and $30 for a temporary sign permit. Master Sign Plans are reviewed and priced separately. Standards for the uses, locations, types, heights, colors and illumination of signs are set out in the adopted Sign Regulations of the City of Sedona; properties within the Sedona Main Street District are subject to additional review. New businesses and new business owners must separately obtain a Tenant Occupancy Permit before occupying any building.
Verified 2026-08-16 · Source
Requirements
- A sign permit is required when installation of a new permanent or temporary sign, or substantial alteration of an existing sign, is proposed (City of Sedona Sign Permit Requirements)
- A completed application addressing all required submittal information must be provided before permit fees or deposits will be accepted
- Two complete sets of plans (site plan, building elevation, and sign plan) plus the sign permit fee
- Site plan drawn to scale showing property lines with dimensions, abutting street right-of-way, easements, driveway, curbs and sidewalks with street frontage dimensions; building dimensions and parking areas; adjacent buildings or structures; utility lines, poles and outdoor lighting fixtures; the location of all existing and proposed signs with signs to be removed identified; and landscape areas and existing trees
- Building elevation — a fully dimensioned profile view from the street toward the building showing rooflines, windows, doors, awnings and site features; the location of existing and proposed wall signs; signs to be removed; the dimension of the wall the sign is located on; the frontage of buildings facing streets in feet; and the height of signs measured from grade
- Sign plan showing sign elevation, dimensions, foundation detail, colors, materials, letter style, copy and illumination — including the length, width and depth of the sign area and of individual letters, structural and foundation details of freestanding signs, electrical connections and wiring detail, source of illumination and combined wattage, and color and material samples for all colors and materials used
- A licensed sign contractor or other approved contractor may be required for installation of permitted signs; the application collects the sign contractor's license and class numbers
- If the applicant is not the business owner or the property owner, a letter of authorization from the business and/or property owner is required
- The application requires all proposed and existing signs to be listed by type and quantity across eight categories — Freestanding, Marquee, Directory, Under Canopy, Wall, Directional, Awning/Canopy and Other — with new/existing status, whether lighted, materials, and a total valuation for all new signs
- The application also collects the applicant's Business License number and Occupancy Permit number
- New businesses or new business owners must obtain a Tenant Occupancy Permit prior to occupancy of any building (City of Sedona Sign Permit Requirements)
- Properties located within the Sedona Main Street District are subject to additional review
Required documents
- RequiredSign Permit Application (City of Sedona)Two-page Community Development Department form ('sign permit app 03-2020'); page 1 is the application, page 2 is the Sign Permit Requirements sheet. Collects business owner and business license details, occupancy permit number, applicant, sign contractor license and class, sign type/quantity table, and total valuation for all new signs.
- RequiredTwo complete sets of plansSite plan, building elevation, and sign plan, each drawn to scale and meeting the itemized plan requirements. The application and any exhibits become property of the City.
- RequiredColor and material samplesSamples for all colors and materials to be used in construction of the sign.
- OptionalLetter of authorization from the business and/or property ownerRequired when the applicant is neither the business owner nor the property owner.
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent sign | $150 per sign | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, 'Sign Permit' block, PDF page 33. Show full citationHideCity of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, 'Sign Permit' block, PDF page 33. The rows and amounts in this table do not pair correctly when copied out of the PDF — read the figures from the page as published rather than from a copy-paste. The City's Sign Permit Requirements sheet corroborates them, stating the sign permit fee as '$150 per sign; $50 for directory panel replacement; $75 for signs in compliance with a Master Sign Plan approved after October 2017.' |
| Temporary sign permit | $30 | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, 'Sign Permit' block, PDF page 33 — read from a rendered page image. Show full citationHideCity of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, 'Sign Permit' block, PDF page 33 — read from a rendered page image. This is the first line of the block and is the only one of the block's figures not also restated on the Sign Permit Requirements sheet. Separate temporary sign permit forms exist for commercial districts and for residential districts (open houses, garage sales, non-profit activities). |
| Directory sign panel replacement | $50 | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, PDF page 33 — read from a rendered page image; corroborated verbatim by the City's Sign Permit Requirements sheet ('$50 for directory panel replacement'). |
| Sign permit for a property with a Master Sign Plan adopted after October 2017 | $75 per sign | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, 'Sign Permit' block; Show full citationHideCity of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, 'Sign Permit' block; this is the final sub-item of the block, whose label continues onto PDF page 34 while its amount sits at the foot of page 33 — both pages were rendered and read as images. Corroborated verbatim by the City's Sign Permit Requirements sheet ('$75 for signs in compliance with a Master Sign Plan approved after October 2017'). |
| Master Sign Plan — Administrative Review | $100 | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, 'Sign Permit' block, PDF page 33. Show full citationHideCity of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, 'Sign Permit' block, PDF page 33. The 'Master Sign Plan' bullet is a heading with two sub-items (Administrative Review, and Planning & Zoning Commission Review) and carries no fee of its own: the block lists seven labels and six amounts, and the three per-sign amounts ($150, $50, $75) are independently fixed by the City's Sign Permit Requirements sheet, which leaves $30 for Temporary Sign Permit and $100/$450 for the two Master Sign Plan review paths. |
| Master Sign Plan — Planning & Zoning Commission Review (1 meeting) | $450 | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, 'Sign Permit' block, PDF page 33; see the note on the Administrative Review line for how the row-to-amount pairing was resolved across the page break. |
| Temporary Sign Permit retrieval | First offense: $25 per sign; second offense: $50 per sign; third offense: $100 per sign | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, PDF page 34. |
| Doubling penalty — work performed or use/occupancy without permits | All fees doubled | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section standing note: 'All fees doubled for review of application(s) for work performed or use/occupancy without permits.' PDF page 38. |
Change of Use / Tenant Occupancy Permit
Sedona's instrument for a change of occupant or use of an existing commercial space is the Tenant Occupancy Permit, issued by the City of Sedona Community Development Department. The City's Permits page files it under 'Businesses — Moving into or renovating a new location?', and the City's Sign Permit Requirements sheet states that new businesses or new business owners are required to obtain a Tenant Occupancy Permit prior to occupancy of any building. The Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026 prices 'Tenant occupancy' at $50 under Community Development 'Other Inspections and Fees.' The packet warns in red that 'It is illegal to operate a Business without a valid Certificate of Occupancy (A Tenant Occupancy Permit is not a Certificate of Occupancy).' Where the change of use also involves construction, the City issues a separate Tenant Improvement permit.
Reviewed 2026-08-16 · Source
Requirements
- Complete the Tenant Occupancy Permit Application and the Commercial Preliminary Questionnaire, both included in the City's Tenant Occupancy Permit Packet
- New businesses and new business owners must obtain a Tenant Occupancy Permit prior to occupancy of any building (City of Sedona Sign Permit Requirements sheet)
- A Tenant Occupancy Permit is not a Certificate of Occupancy — the packet states in red that it is illegal to operate a business without a valid Certificate of Occupancy
- The application can be downloaded from the Community Development website at sedonaaz.gov/cd under the 'Permits' button, or a paper copy obtained at 104 Roadrunner Drive or by calling 928-282-1154
- The packet directs applicants to contact the agencies whose requirements may apply to the specific project: City of Sedona Building Safety Division 928-282-1154; Yavapai County 928-639-8100; Coconino County 928-774-5011; Sedona Fire District 928-282-6800; Arizona Public Service 928-284-4000; AZ Water Company 928-282-5555; and Unisource Gas Company 928-282-3919
- Where the change of use involves construction or build-out, file the City's separate Tenant Improvement permit; tenant improvement valuation is set at $50.00 per sq. ft. or the actual construction cost estimate as determined by the building official
Required documents
- RequiredTenant Occupancy Permit ApplicationFirst component of the City of Sedona Tenant Occupancy Permit Packet (14 pages).
- RequiredCommercial Preliminary QuestionnaireSecond component of the Tenant Occupancy Permit Packet.
- OptionalSign Permit ApplicationThird component of the Tenant Occupancy Permit Packet — bundled because a new tenant normally applies for signage at the same time; required only if signage is proposed.
- OptionalCustomer Survey FormFourth component of the Tenant Occupancy Permit Packet.
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tenant occupancy | $50 | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, under the 'Other Inspections and Fees' heading, PDF page 26. |
| Tenant improvements — valuation basis (where the change of use involves construction) | $50.00 per sq. ft., or the actual construction cost estimate as determined by the building official | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, 'Other Inspections and Fees,' PDF page 26 — read from a rendered page image. Show full citationHideCity of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, 'Other Inspections and Fees,' PDF page 26 — read from a rendered page image. This is a valuation input, not a permit fee: the resulting building permit fee is then computed from the Valuation/Permit Fee Schedule, with the plan review fee at 65 percent of the building permit fee per Sedona City Code § 15.05.060. |
| Fee for temporary certificate of occupancy — commercial | $500 | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, PDF page 27. The residential equivalent is $300. |
| Fee for temporary certificate of occupancy — residential | $300 | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section, PDF page 27 — read from a rendered page image. |
| Doubling penalty — use/occupancy without permits | All fees doubled | City of Sedona Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026, Community Development section standing note: 'All fees doubled for review of application(s) for work performed or use/occupancy without permits.' PDF page 38. |
Fire Sprinkler & Fire Alarm Permit (Sedona Fire District)
IMPORTANT — THIS PERMIT IS NOT ISSUED BY THE CITY OF SEDONA. Fire protection system plan review and permitting inside Sedona is performed by the SEDONA FIRE DISTRICT (SFD), a separate special district, through its Community Risk Reduction (CRR) division, whose Division Chief serves as Fire Marshal. The City of Sedona's own Tenant Occupancy Permit Packet lists 'Sedona Fire District • 928-282-6800' as a distinct agency alongside the City's Building Safety Division, Yavapai County and Coconino County. The City's Community Development Permits page lists no fire sprinkler or fire alarm permit, its adopted code list (2018 I-Codes plus the 2017 NEC) includes no fire code, and the Community Development section of the City's Consolidated Fee Schedule effective January 1, 2026 contains no fire sprinkler or fire alarm fee. SFD has adopted its own fire code — the International Fire Code, 2012 edition, titled 'the Fire Code of Sedona Fire District' by SFD Resolution #2017-03, together with the International Urban-Wildland Interface Code, 2018 edition — with amendments approved by the Arizona State Fire Marshal's Office. Because SFD's boundaries span the City of Sedona and both Coconino and Yavapai Counties, CRR works with all three building departments during plan review.
Reviewed 2026-08-16 · Source
Requirements
- Submit fire protection system plans and permit applications to the Sedona Fire District, not to the City of Sedona: Community Risk Reduction, Sedona Fire District, 2860 Southwest Drive, Sedona, AZ 86336; 928-282-6800 (CRR general) or 928-204-8926 (CRR division line); crr@sedonafire.org
- SFD uses electronic submittals — submit all plans and supporting documents online as a PDF file to crr@sedonafire.org; plans may be submitted as a.zip file or via file-sharing if too large for email
- All additions and new construction must go through SFD's permitting and review process to ensure plans and fire systems meet SFD's adopted fire code; this applies to new developments and subdivisions, fire hydrant and water distribution systems, water supplies, and commercial and residential construction, and plans must also be submitted for remodels and improvements
- Plans and permit applications must contain all pertinent information required by the fire code and NFPA; they may be returned for correction or clarification, and are not complete until the appropriate review and permit fees have been received. The review process does not begin until the application is complete, and any additional fees owed must be paid in full before plans or permits are released for construction (CRR Policy 1331)
- Permits are specific to the designer and/or contractor for a specific project: a new project using the same design requires a separate permit, and where a new contractor takes over a job started by another, a new permit application is required and a new submittal and review may be required if permission to use the existing approved plans cannot be secured (CRR Policy 1331)
- Reduced submittal path for small sprinkler work: any addition or modification involving fewer than 21 sprinkler heads to an EXISTING automatic sprinkler system does not require a complete plan submittal, provided the applicant supplies a completed permit application, a check for the appropriate fee, and a letter from the Arizona-licensed fire sprinkler contractor stating that the hydraulic water supply will be sufficient and the work will not negatively impact the existing hydraulics; that the added or modified sprinklers are not adding to nor creating a new remote area; the exact number of sprinklers being added, moved or modified and why; the start date and projected completion; and that the system will be installed in accordance with all applicable codes and standards (CRR Policy 1309)
- The same reduced path applies to additions or modifications involving flexible sprinkler hose, provided the system was originally designed with flexible sprinkler hose and all the letter requirements are met (CRR Policy 1309)
- Paint booths, pipe-schedule designed systems and other special application sprinkler systems ALWAYS require a complete plan submittal, no exceptions, and there is a limit of ONE 'less than 21 sprinkler head' construction permit per sprinkler system before a complete plan submittal is required (CRR Policy 1309)
- SFD publishes distinct CRR policies for NFPA 13D and NFPA 13R fire sprinkler system requirements, NFPA 13D sprinkler installations in new manufactured homes, criteria triggering NFPA 13D installation, building additions that trigger automatic fire sprinkler system requirements, fire sprinkler contractor certifications, painted fire sprinkler heads, fire flow reductions in sprinklered buildings, underground fire line plan submittals, underground fire line inspection and testing, battery load testing for fire alarm systems, and construction permits for kitchen hood suppression systems
- SFD has a fire sprinkler requirement for residential properties based on various conditions — contact Community Risk Reduction at 928-282-6800 or crr@sedonafire.org for clarification on a specific property
- Permits issued 'after the fact' are charged at twice the original permit fee; sprinkler modifications and kitchen hood suppression system modifications are exempt from that doubling. Working without a permit is prohibited unless prior approval is granted by the Fire Marshal, is subject to a stop-work order, and the contractor or company will be reported to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (CRR Policy 1331)
Required documents
- RequiredSedona Fire District fire permit applicationSubmitted electronically as a PDF to crr@sedonafire.org. SFD publishes its permit forms and applications on its own Forms & Applications page; that page could not be opened during this pass (see confidenceNote).
- OptionalArizona-licensed fire sprinkler contractor letter (fewer than 21 sprinkler heads)In lieu of a complete plan submittal for an addition or modification of fewer than 21 sprinkler heads to an existing system; must address hydraulic sufficiency, remote-area impact, the exact number of sprinklers added/moved/modified and why, the work schedule, and code compliance (SFD CRR Policy 1309).
- OptionalComplete fire sprinkler / fire alarm plan submittalRequired for all new systems and for any paint booth, pipe-schedule designed, or other special application sprinkler system. Fire protection system plans and calculations are required at the fire code official's discretion under IFC § 901.2 as adopted by SFD.
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-07-06.
Fee schedules
Applications & forms
Checklists & handouts
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 Sedona building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.