Scottsdale's ADU policies are restrictive, limiting units to select zones and requiring conditional use permits. The city's focus on preserving residential character makes ADU development more challenging than neighboring Phoenix.
Zoning & Size Requirements
| Allowed Zones | Very limited residential zones |
| Max Size (Detached) | 700 sq ft |
| Max Size (Attached) | Not allowed |
| Max Size (JADU) | Not allowed |
| Max Height | 30 feet |
| Max Units | 1 ADU per lot (if allowed) |
Setback Requirements
| Rear Setback | 25 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Front Setback | 30 feet |
| Parking Required | 2 spaces per lot |
| Owner Occupancy | Often required |
| Min Lot Size | 7,500 sq ft |
Permit Process & Fees
| Approval Process | Conditional use permit + design review |
| Review Timeline | 120-180 days |
| Permit Fees | $5,000-$8,000 |
| Impact Fees | $2,000-$3,000 |
| Plan Check | 6-8 weeks |
| Pre-Approved Plans | Not available |
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Construction Costs
| Average Build Cost | $140,000-$280,000 |
| Cost per Sq Ft | $200-$400 |
| Garage Conversion | $75,000-$170,000 |
| Prefab ADU (Installed) | $110,000-$240,000 (installed) |
Finance Your ADU Project
Most ADU projects are funded through HELOCs, construction loans, or cash-out refinancing. Compare rates from top lenders in minutes.
Compare ADU Financing Options →Rental Income Potential
| Avg Rent (1 Bedroom) | $1,500-$2,000/mo |
| Avg Rent (2 Bedroom) | $1,900-$2,600/mo |
| Short-Term Rental | Not permitted |
| Est. Annual ROI | 4-6% annual return |
Explore Prefab ADU Options
Prefab ADUs can save 20-40% vs. traditional construction and cut build time in half. Compare top prefab manufacturers.
Compare Prefab ADUs →Recent Law Changes
What's Changed Recently
- 2024: Limited expansion of ADU allowance in select neighborhoods
- 2023: Maintained restrictive approach to preserve neighborhood character
- 2024: Extended design review requirements for ADUs
- 2023: Increased conditional use permit standards
Tips for Building an ADU in Scottsdale
- Scottsdale is challenging for ADU development; verify zone compatibility early
- Conditional use permit and design review require 120+ days
- Owner-occupancy often required; limits pure investment strategies
- High property costs with lower ROI make Scottsdale less attractive for ADUs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Scottsdale?
Yes. ADUs are allowed in Very limited residential zones in Scottsdale. The maximum size for a detached ADU is 700 sq ft. No owner-occupancy is required.
How much does an ADU cost in Scottsdale?
ADU construction in Scottsdale typically costs $140,000-$280,000. Garage conversions run $75,000-$170,000, and prefab ADUs cost $110,000-$240,000 (installed).
How much can I rent an ADU for in Scottsdale?
Average ADU rents in Scottsdale are $1,500-$2,000/mo for a 1-bedroom and $1,900-$2,600/mo for a 2-bedroom unit.
Do I need parking for an ADU in Scottsdale?
2 spaces per lot. Check with Scottsdale planning department for the latest Arizona ADU parking rules, as many states have relaxed requirements in recent years.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Scottsdale?
The permit review timeline in Scottsdale is 120-180 days. Fees range from $5,000-$8,000.
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