Converting a Shed To A House in Arizona

✅ Step-by-Step Guide: Converting a Shed to a Legal House in Arizona

1. Check Local Zoning Laws

Before you start, check:

• 🏡 Zoning: Does your property allow an ADU or guest house?

• 📏 Size & Placement: Are there setback, height, or square footage limits?

• 🧱 HOA Rules: If applicable, review what’s allowed in your subdivision.

💡 Tip: Arizona passed HB 2720 (effective 2025) requiring many cities to allow ADUs on single-family lots.

2. Choose a Shed That Can Be Converted

A typical Home Depot/Lowe’s shed is not ready for occupancy. You’ll either need:

• A high-quality shell you upgrade (e.g., Tuff Shed “Pro Studio” or “Premier Barn”);

• Or a prefab shed-to-house kit built for residential code (many local builders offer this now).

3. Hire a Licensed Contractor (Optional but Strongly Advised)

You can DIY, but you’ll likely need licensed trades for:

• Electrical wiring

• Plumbing connections

• HVAC installation

• Roofing and insulation

You’ll also need:

• Architectural plans (simple ones can cost $1,000–$3,000)

• Structural engineer (if modifying walls/roof)

4. Apply for Building Permits

Permits are required for:

• Electrical

• Plumbing

• Mechanical (heating/cooling)

• Structural work (framing, windows, roofing)

• Septic system (if no sewer connection)

Cities like Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Flagstaff now have permit processes for ADUs.

5. Meet Arizona Residential Building Code

Your converted shed must include:

You must pass inspections at various stages (framing, rough-in, final).

6. Get a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)

Once completed and inspected, the local building department will issue a C of O—this legally allows someone to live in the structure.

💰 Estimated Costs (as of 2025)

Prefab companies like Tuff Shed, Studio Shed, or Tiny Home Builders may offer kits that include code-compliant plans.

📝 Arizona Cities That Support Shed-to-Home Projects

• Phoenix: ADUs up to 1,000 sq ft allowed (2025+)

• Tucson: ADUs allowed on most R-1/R-2 zoned properties

• Flagstaff: Prefab and modular ADUs permitted

• Mesa, Chandler, Tempe: Also adapting to statewide ADU law

🔍 What To Ask Your Local Planning Department

• Can I build a detached ADU on my property?

• What are the required setbacks, height, and square footage limits?

• What building codes are enforced in my area?

• Do you offer expedited permits for ADUs or tiny homes?

🛠️ Final Tip

Treat a shed-to-house conversion as a full construction project, not a hack. With the right permits and upgrades, it can become a legal, comfortable living space—or even a source of rental income.