Building Permits in Scottsdale, AZ: A Remodeler’s Playbook

To get a building permits in Scottsdale, confirm zoning and desert‑plant rules, upload digital plans, pay review fees of 1–4 % of project value, and allow 10–15 business days for first review. Partner with a licensed pro like ArDan Construction to cut revisions and pass inspections the first time.

Why Building Permits in Scottsdale Feel Like Red Tape—And How to Cut Through

Homeowners dread paperwork, code jargon, and stalled crews. ArDan Construction has steered Scottsdale clients through almost 20 years of permit hurdles and over 50 residential approvals since 2007. We translate rules into plain English, so you spend time choosing finishes, not decoding plan‑check comments.

Step‑by‑Step Building Permits in Scottsdale Process & Timeline

1. Feasibility & Code Check (Day 0 – 2)

Verify zoning setbacks, hillside restrictions, and the Scottsdale Native Plant Program. A 15‑minute GIS lookup can flag view‑corridor limits before you pay for drawings.

2. Digital Plan Prep (Day 3 – 10)

Your architect bundles structural, energy, and truss sheets in a single PDF.

3. Application & Fee Estimate (Day 11)

Upload plans to the City’s secure portal—https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development/permit-services—then receive an instant fee quote. Expect about $1.60 per sq ft plus plan‑check fees. Pay online to start the clock.

4. Plan Review Rounds (Day 12 – 25)

City reviewers check structural, drainage, fire, and “Green Building Code” items. Average first review: 10 business days.

5. Building Permits in Scottsdale Issuance & Pre‑Construction (Day 26 – 30)

After approval, download the stamped set, print two copies for site use, and post the yellow card. We schedule a pre‑slab meeting to confirm sewer tap and erosion controls.

6. Inspection Milestones

• Footing & stem wall
• Under‑slab MEP
• Framing/rough‑in
• Insulation & blower‑door
• Final
  Book inspections 24 hours ahead; mid‑week slots are fastest. Our project manager walks each inspector through the set, saving re-inspections.

Portfolio Highlights

Permitted projects command higher resale value and peace of mind. See how our projects have turned out over the years—see our recent work.

Pricing & ROI Overview for Building Permits in Scottsdale

• Permit fees: ~1–4 % of construction cost.
• Design & engineering: $30–$50 per sq ft.
• Permitting payoff: Homes with documented permits sell 8–10 % higher than comparable unpermitted properties (2024 ARMLS data).

Hidden‑Gem Insight

Desert Drainage Rule: If your lot lies within 50 ft of a Natural Area Open Space easement, Scottsdale requires a $275 drainage clearance letter. DIY applicants often miss this, delaying framing by up to two weeks.

Schedule Your Consultation

ArDan Construction—2024 NARI Contractor of the Year and Scottsdale’s only NKBA Certified Luxury Remodeler—handles drawings, submittals, and every inspection. Call 480‑608-4944 or book online to start your stress‑free remodel.

FAQ

How long does a Scottsdale building permit take?
Most residential remodels clear first review in 10–15 business days; add 5–10 days if structural changes trigger a second round.

What are typical permit fees?
Plan‑check plus permit fees usually land between $0.70 and $1.60 per sq ft, scaled to project cost.

Can I pull my own permit?
Yes, but depending on your situation, hiring ArDan Construction’s process and the peace of mind and time saving that it offers may offset the cost.

Do I need a permit for interior‑only work?
You do if you move plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or load‑bearing walls. Paint, trim, and flooring are generally exempt.

Where can I learn more?
Visit Scottsdale’s permit portal or read our planning guide for home additions.