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Overview
Arizona has NO statewide building code. Home Rule state - municipalities adopt independently. Most jurisdictions on 2018 I-Codes. Phoenix adopted 2024 PBCC (Ordinance G-7347, effective Aug 2025) with cool roof mandates and EV readiness. State preemptions: Office of Manufactured Housing (OMH), State Fire Marshal (OSFM). Pool barriers statewide via A.R.S. 36-1681 (60-inch height). ROC licenses contractors statewide.
Code Snapshot
Current editions in effect
Code
A.R.S. 36-1681 Statewide
Statewide
Code
ARS-36-1681 custom
custom
Plumbing
IAPMO 2015
2015 Edition
Building Code
IBC 2021
2021 Edition
Code
ICC Local Adoption
Local Adoption
Code
ICCPC Local Adoption
Local Adoption
Effective Date: January 1, 2018
Verified: Mar 2026
Jurisdiction Complexity
Arizona is a MODERATE complexity state
Arizona applies state-level code amendments to ICC base codes, with some variation across local jurisdictions.
SimpleModerateComplex
Wind-Borne Debris
Varies by locality →Key Rules & Requirements
Critical regulations for Arizona restoration work
Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) licensing is required statewide for all construction work exceeding $1,000 (including labor and materials). Unlike building codes which vary by jurisdiction, ROC licensing applies uniformly across Arizona. License verification is available online at roc.az.gov.
Important: A.R.S. Title 32, Chapter 10 requires contractor licensing through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) for any construction, alteration, repair, or improvement work exceeding $1,000 (combined labor and materials). Key requirements: (1) RESIDENTIAL LICENSE CLASSES: B (General Residential), B-1 through B-6 (specialty), KB-1 (handyman <$3,000 per job). (2) BONDING: Performance bond required. Amount varies by license class. (3) WORKERS COMP: Required for contractors with employees. (4) HOMEOWNER RECOVERY FUND: All licensed contractors contribute. Provides up to $30,000 per claim for homeowner losses from licensed contractor misconduct. (5) VERIFY BEFORE HIRING: All license info is public at roc.az.gov. (6) PENALTIES: Contracting without a license is a class 1 misdemeanor. Advertising without a license is also prohibited. The ROC is one of Arizona's most active consumer protection agencies and processes thousands of complaints annually.
Arizona requires pool barriers with a minimum height of 60 inches (5 feet) statewide under A.R.S. 36-1681. This is HIGHER than the 48-inch minimum required by the IRC and most other states. Gates must be self-closing, self-latching, and open outward from the pool. No gaps exceeding passage of a 4-inch sphere.
Important: A.R.S. 36-1681 is a statewide statute that applies to all residential swimming pools and spas regardless of which local building code is adopted. Requirements: (1) Barrier height minimum 60 inches (5 feet) from grade - 12 inches higher than IRC standard of 48 inches; (2) Gates must be self-closing AND self-latching; (3) Gates must open outward from pool area (prevents child pushing open); (4) No openings that allow passage of a 4-inch sphere; (5) Barrier must completely surround pool/spa. Phoenix amendments add: mesh fencing must meet ASTM F2286; vertical post receptacles in patio decks must be non-conductive material to prevent electrical grounding hazards. Pima County requires additional documentation and inspection before pool/spa fill. Violations are a class 2 misdemeanor. Local jurisdictions may adopt stricter requirements.
Arizona monsoon season (July through September) produces severe microbursts, dust storms (haboobs), and flash flooding. Monsoon wind events can produce localized wind speeds exceeding design criteria. Tile roof attachment, underlayment integrity, and flash flood drainage are critical design considerations.
Important: Arizona monsoon season runs from June 15 through September 30 (NOAA definition), with peak activity July through September. Three primary hazards: (1) MICROBURSTS: Localized downdrafts from thunderstorms can produce wind speeds of 80-100+ mph in concentrated areas. These events often cause more roof damage than the design wind speeds suggest because of the sudden, directional nature. Proper tile attachment per TRI manual (March 2024 update incorporating ASCE 7-16) is critical. (2) HABOOBS (dust storms): Massive walls of dust 1-3 miles high that travel at 30-60 mph. Abrasive dust degrades exterior finishes, clogs HVAC filters, infiltrates through gaps in building envelope. Sealed construction and proper weatherstripping are essential. (3) FLASH FLOODING: Desert terrain produces rapid runoff. FEMA flood zones along Salt River, Gila River, and numerous washes. Positive drainage away from foundations is critical - no basement construction in desert zones. Monsoon damage is the primary driver of insurance restoration work in Arizona.
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Code Administration
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Climate Zones
Applicable Codes
Key Codes for Restoration Work
Primary codes for residential restoration projects in Arizona
| Code Type | Current Edition | Effective Date | Base Code | Status | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
International Building Code 2021 Commercial & Multi-Family | IBC 2021 | Aug 1, 2025 | IBC 2021 w/ amendments | Current | View Details |
International Existing Building Code Commercial & Multi-Family | IEBC Local Adoption | Jan 1, 2024 | IBC 2021 w/ amendments | Current | View Details |
International Energy Conservation Code 2018 Energy Efficiency Standards | IECC 2018 | Jan 1, 2019 | IECC 2018 w/ amendments | Current | View Details |
International Energy Conservation Code (Commercial) Energy Efficiency Standards | IECC-C Local Adoption | Jan 1, 2024 | IECC 2021 w/ amendments | Current | View Details |
International Energy Conservation Code (Residential) Single-Family & Townhomes | IECC-R Local Adoption | Jan 1, 2024 | IRC 2021 w/ amendments | Current | View Details |
International Residential Code Single-Family & Townhomes | IRC Local Adoption | Jan 1, 2024 | IRC 2021 w/ amendments | Current | View Details |
National Electrical Code 2020 (NFPA 70) Building Requirements | NEC 2020 | Jan 1, 2020 | NEC 2018 w/ amendments | Current | View Details |
Phoenix Building Construction Code Commercial & Multi-Family | PBCC 2024 | Aug 1, 2025 | IBC 2024 w/ amendments | Current | View Details |
International Building Code 2021
Commercial & Multi-Family
IBC 2021Details
International Existing Building Code
Commercial & Multi-Family
IEBC Local AdoptionDetails
International Energy Conservation Code 2018
Energy Efficiency Standards
IECC 2018Details
International Energy Conservation Code (Commercial)
Energy Efficiency Standards
IECC-C Local AdoptionDetails
International Energy Conservation Code (Residential)
Single-Family & Townhomes
IECC-R Local AdoptionDetails
International Residential Code
Single-Family & Townhomes
IRC Local AdoptionDetails
National Electrical Code 2020 (NFPA 70)
Building Requirements
NEC 2020Details
Phoenix Building Construction Code
Commercial & Multi-Family
PBCC 2024Details
Effective dates reflect when each code edition was formally adopted by the state. Dates may differ across code types when amendments are adopted in separate rulemaking cycles. Base codes reference the ICC model code edition that serves as the foundation for the state's adopted version. Verify current applicability with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
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Enter a Arizona ZIP code for exact applicable codes, special zones, and a compliance checklist.
Special Zones
Special Zones
Geologic
Expansive Soils and Caliche - Arizona
Arizona has widespread expansive soil conditions including: (1) CALICHE - a hard calcium carbonate layer common throughout desert areas that impedes drainage and requires specialized excavation; (2) EXPANSIVE CLAYS - particularly in east Valley (Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler) and Tucson areas that swell when wet and shrink when dry, causing foundation movement; (3) COLLAPSIBLE SOILS - alluvial soils that compact dramatically when saturated. Post-tensioned slab foundations are the dominant foundation type in Phoenix metro specifically to accommodate expansive soil movement. Foundation failure is a leading cause of structural insurance claims in Arizona.
Requirements: Geotechnical investigation recommended for all new construction in known expansive soil areas. Foundation design must account for soil movement potential: (1) Post-tensioned slabs are standard in Phoenix metro and require specialty inspection during construction; (2) Stem wall foundations with void forms used in severe clay areas; (3) Proper drainage away from foundations is critical - positive slope minimum 6 inches in first 10 feet; (4) Landscape irrigation near foundations must be managed to prevent differential moisture; (5) Caliche layers require specialized excavation and may affect drainage system design. For insurance restoration: foundation crack evaluation should distinguish settlement cracking from structural failure.
View sourceWind & Hurricane
Monsoon Dust Storm (Haboob) Risk Zone - Central Arizona
Central and southern Arizona experiences severe dust storms (haboobs) during monsoon season (June 15 through September 30). Haboobs are massive walls of dust 1-3 miles high traveling at 30-60 mph, generated by monsoon thunderstorm outflow boundaries. Primary risk areas: Phoenix metro, Tucson metro, Casa Grande, and desert corridors along I-10 and I-17. Haboobs carry abrasive particulates that damage exterior finishes, clog HVAC systems, infiltrate through building envelope gaps, and reduce visibility to near zero. Monsoon microbursts accompanying haboobs can produce localized wind speeds of 80-100+ mph, causing significant roof damage particularly to tile roofing systems. Dust storms are the unique weather hazard that differentiates AZ insurance restoration from other markets.
Requirements: Building envelope integrity is critical for dust storm resistance: (1) Weatherstripping on all doors and windows must be maintained; (2) HVAC return air filtration should be MERV 11+ in dust-prone areas; (3) Exterior ducts and vents need proper screening; (4) Stucco and exterior finishes degrade faster due to abrasive dust - maintenance cycles shorter than other climates; (5) Pool equipment covers recommended during monsoon season; (6) Tile roofing attachment per TRI manual (March 2024 update with ASCE 7-16 criteria) is critical for microburst wind resistance. For insurance claims: NOAA monsoon storm event data supports damage claims. Document dust infiltration damage to HVAC and interior finishes.
View sourceFlood & Coastal
FEMA Flood Hazard Areas - Arizona Rivers and Washes
Arizona has significant flash flood risk primarily from monsoon storms (July-September). FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas include the Salt River, Gila River, Verde River, Santa Cruz River, Rillito River, and numerous desert washes throughout the state. Flash flooding in desert terrain is rapid and dangerous due to low permeability soils and minimal vegetation. Urban areas in Phoenix and Tucson metros have extensive floodplain mapping. Many desert subdivisions are built near dry washes that become raging torrents during monsoon events.
Requirements: Construction in flood zones must comply with NFIP regulations and local floodplain management ordinances. Elevation certificates required. Lowest floor must be at or above Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Substantial improvement/damage rules (50% threshold) apply. No new residential structures in floodway. Arizona-specific: Maricopa County Flood Control District and Pima County Regional Flood Control District administer local floodplain programs. Flash flood warning systems in metro areas. Verify specific requirements with FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps and local AHJ.
View sourceSeismic
Yuma County Seismic Zone (SDC D0/D1)
Yuma County in southwest Arizona has the highest seismic risk in the state, with Seismic Design Category D0/D1 due to proximity to the San Andreas and Imperial fault systems in neighboring California and Mexico. This is rare for Arizona - the majority of the state is SDC A or B. The elevated seismic designation requires structural detailing and engineering that is atypical for Arizona construction practices.
Requirements: Seismic Design Category D0/D1 requirements: (1) Stricter structural detailing for lateral force resistance; (2) Special moment frames or braced frames may be required; (3) Foundation design must account for seismic forces; (4) Masonry walls require special reinforcement detailing per ACI 530/TMS 402; (5) Wood frame buildings require hold-down hardware, anchor bolts, and shear panels; (6) Cripple wall bracing required; (7) Water heater strapping required. For insurance restoration: seismic damage assessment should be performed by a licensed structural engineer familiar with SDC D requirements. In-kind replacement may not satisfy current seismic code if original construction predates current code.
View sourceWildfire
Wildland-Urban Interface - Northern Arizona Forests
Northern Arizona contains extensive Ponderosa pine forests creating significant WUI fire risk. Affected areas include Coconino County (Flagstaff, Munds Park, Parks), Yavapai County (Prescott, Sedona, Camp Verde), Gila County (Payson, Pine), and portions of Navajo and Apache counties. The 2002 Rodeo-Chediski Fire (468,638 acres) and 2010 Schultz Fire near Flagstaff demonstrated the catastrophic risk. Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs) are in effect for many communities. Flagstaff, Prescott, and Sedona have adopted formal WUI codes with varying stringency levels.
Requirements: WUI code requirements vary by jurisdiction: (1) Flagstaff: Flame Spread Rating approach, 1/8-inch vent mesh, Class A roofing, defensible space 30-100 ft. (2) Sedona Fire District: Class 1 ignition-resistant construction, MANDATORY residential fire sprinklers, retrofit sprinklers if addition exceeds 50% gross sq ft. (3) Prescott: IWUIC Ordinance 6-2-1, defensible space, hardened construction. (4) Coconino County: County-wide WUI for forested unincorporated areas. All zones require: non-combustible vent mesh (openings <= 1/8 inch), Class A fire-rated roofing, non-combustible or ignition-resistant exterior materials, tempered/multi-pane windows, managed vegetation buffers.
View sourceClimate & Energy
Climate Zones
IECC Climate Zones in Arizona
5BCool-Humid
Zone 5B - Cool Dry
dry
2BHot-Humid
Zone 2B - Hot Dry
dry
4BMixed-Humid
Zone 4B - Mixed Dry
dry
3BWarm-Humid
Zone 3B - Warm Dry
dry
Energy Code Requirements
IECC 2018 - Residential Insulation Minimums
| Component | Zone 5B | Zone 2B | Zone 4B | Zone 3B |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Ceiling Attic | 49.0 | NR | NR | NR |
Wood Frame Wall | 20.0 | NR | NR | NR |
Mass Wall | 13.0 | NR | NR | NR |
Floor | 30.0 | NR | NR | NR |
Basement Wall | 15.0 | NR | NR | NR |
Slab Perimeter | 10.0 | NR | NR | NR |
Crawl Space Wall | 15.0 | NR | NR | NR |
Window | 0.300 | NR | NR | NR |
Skylight | 0.550 | NR | NR | NR |
Legend:
Ceiling Attic
Wood Frame Wall
Mass Wall
Floor
Basement Wall
Slab Perimeter
Crawl Space Wall
Window
Skylight
NR = Not Required
Fenestration Requirements
U-Factor (Max)
0.300
SHGC (Max)
0.25
Ice Barrier
Required
R-Value Requirements (Zone 2B - Most Common)
NR
Ceiling
Not Required
NR
Walls
Not Required
NR
Floor
Not Required
NR
Basement
Not Required
NR
Slab
Not Required
NR
Crawlspace
Not Required
Counties
Arizona Counties
15 jurisdictions with code information
Apache
FIPS: 04001
Amendments
30 ZIP codesView
Cochise
FIPS: 04003
Standard
26 ZIP codesView
Coconino
FIPS: 04005
Amendments
28 ZIP codesView
Gila
FIPS: 04007
Standard
13 ZIP codesView
Graham
FIPS: 04009
Standard
11 ZIP codesView
Greenlee
FIPS: 04011
Standard
4 ZIP codesView
La Paz
FIPS: 04012
Standard
9 ZIP codesView
Maricopa
FIPS: 04013
Amendments
204 ZIP codesView
Mohave
FIPS: 04015
Amendments
31 ZIP codesView
Showing 9 of 15 jurisdictions.
Inspection Process
Inspection Process
Standard permit inspection sequence for Arizona residential projects
1
Setback/Footing Inspection
After excavation complete and reinforcement placed, before concrete pour. Verify setback distances from property lines per zoning. In expansive soil areas (common in Phoenix metro): verify geotechnical recommendations are followed. Post-tensioned slab: verify tendon layout matches engineering plans. Caliche layer excavation may require pneumatic equipment - verify proper depth achieved.
2
Stem Wall / Foundation Inspection
Before grouting stem walls and before slab pour. Post-tensioned slabs: tendons inspected before stressing, then stressed tendons verified before backfill. In Flagstaff/mountain zones: verify frost protection depth (36+ inches). Anchor bolts/straps in place. In expansive soil areas: verify void forms installed under grade beams where specified by geotechnical report.
If applicable
3
Post-Tensioned Slab Inspection
Required for all post-tensioned slab foundations (standard in Phoenix metro). Two inspection points: (1) Pre-pour: tendon layout, chairs, edge beam reinforcement, plastic barrier; (2) Post-stress: elongation measurements recorded, stressing log reviewed, anchor pockets grouted. Typically 7-14 days after pour for stressing. PT slab inspections require inspector with specialty knowledge - not all building departments have qualified PT inspectors on staff.
4
Rough Framing / Pre-Drywall Inspection
After framing complete, roof sheathing installed, windows and exterior doors installed, before insulation. Verify structural connections, proper lumber grades, sheathing attachment, header sizes. In WUI zones: verify exterior sheathing and material fire ratings, 1/8-inch vent mesh installed. In desert zones: verify window NFRC labels show SHGC 0.25 or lower. Tile roof: underlayment type and attachment per TRI manual. In Flagstaff: ice barrier installation at eaves and valleys verified.
5
Rough Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing
After rough-in complete, before insulation and drywall. All electrical boxes installed, wiring run, service panel mounted. HVAC ductwork installed - verify cooling capacity adequate for AZ heat loads. Plumbing water supply and DWV systems complete. In Tucson: verify greywater stub-outs installed per mandate. In Flagstaff: verify 90% condensing furnace spec matches approved plans. All penetrations and fire-stopping in place. In Sedona WUI: fire sprinkler rough-in if required.
Before drywall
6
Insulation / Energy Inspection
After insulation installed, before drywall. Zone 2B (desert): verify R-38 ceiling, R-13 walls, SHGC 0.25 windows. No slab insulation required. Zone 3B: verify R-38 ceiling, R-20 walls. Zone 4B (Prescott): verify R-49 ceiling, R-20 walls, R-10 slab. Zone 5B (Flagstaff): verify R-49 ceiling, R-20 or R-13+5ci walls, R-30 floor, R-10 slab at 2 ft depth. Air leakage testing: 5 ACH50 in Zone 2B, 3 ACH50 in Zones 3-5. In Phoenix: verify cool roof product SRI >= 64 for low-slope roofs.
Energy code compliance
Final Inspection
After all work complete and approved by all trades. All mechanical systems operational - VERIFY COOLING SYSTEM OPERATES (life-safety in AZ desert). Smoke detectors and CO detectors installed. Pool barriers verified per A.R.S. 36-1681 (60-inch height, self-closing/self-latching gates). Site grading complete with positive drainage away from foundation. In WUI zones: defensible space vegetation management verified. In Phoenix: RPBI (Residential Permit by Inspector) projects receive final during field review. All required documentation submitted including energy compliance forms and manufacturer certifications.
CO Issued
8
ADVISORY: Monsoon Season Scheduling Considerations
Advisory for all construction phases during June 15 - September 30: (1) Schedule footing/foundation pours to avoid afternoon monsoon storms; (2) Protect open excavations from flash flooding; (3) Secure loose roofing materials before daily monsoon threat period (typically 3-7 PM); (4) Cover exposed ductwork and framing from haboob dust infiltration; (5) Allow for inspection delays due to weather events; (6) Budget 10-15% schedule contingency for monsoon season work. Heat advisory: summer inspections may be limited to morning hours due to extreme temperatures exceeding 115 degrees F.
Important Notes
24-Hour Notice: Schedule inspections at least 24 hours in advance.
Permit Card: Must be posted and visible from street.
Re-Inspection Fees
- First re-inspection
- Often free
- Second re-inspection
- $50-100
- Additional re-inspections
- Varies
* Fees vary by jurisdiction
Contacts & Resources
Mohave County Development Services - Building Division
Kingman
Pinal County Community Development - Building Safety
Casa Grande
Yavapai County Development Services - Customer Service & Permitting
Cottonwood
Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC)
Phoenix
Arizona Office of Manufactured Housing (OMH)
Phoenix
Contractor Licensing
Contractor licensing in Arizona is managed at the state level. Contact the state licensing board or visit your local building department for specific requirements and license verification.
Data last verified: February 2026 · Always verify requirements with the local building department.