You have the exact estate lot in mind that you want to purchase. You’re ready to hit the ground running with construction. But before breaking ground, you need a building permit. There are tons of laws and building codes to understand and obtaining a building permit is the first step.
What is a building permit?
Before you can start building something, you need an official approval from the local government in which you reside. While our real estate development is minutes away from the downtown Tucson area, we’re actually located in the Town of Marana. When you want to build something here, the permit process goes through Marana.
Building permits ensure that everyone is in compliance with local zoning, construction, and land use laws. Some rural areas don’t require building permits but that’s because there are so few people. When planning for more people, such as in a town or city, things like city water and the sewage system need to be included in building plans.
Having consistency and building permits also allows for better visuals and curb appeal, as well as safety. Curb appeal might seem like a silly reason to follow building permits, but when you’re ready to sell your home, trust that you’ll struggle to get your money’s worth (or even offers) if your home isn’t up to code or doesn’t look like it’s in great shape.
What is the process of getting a building permit in Marana?
There are a few things specific to Saguaro Ranch that lead into the process of getting a building permit in Marana.
Visit our real estate development. See what estate lots are still available by setting up a visit. Someone from Saguaro Ranch will meet with you and set you up with a copy of our design guidelines.
Submit blueprints to the DRC. Once your architect has come up with a plan that also follows those guidelines, you’ll submit the building plan to our Design Review Committee.
Submit to the Town of Marana. You’ll hopefully get approval within 2 to 3 months.
Town of Marana Permit Guidelines
Permit Required
Demolition work
Construction on a structure more than 200 square feet
House building
In-ground pool
Temporary trailers
Utility connection
Replacing windows
Permit Not Required
One-story storage shed or playhouse, no more than 200 square feet
Prefab swimming pools no more than 18 inches deep
Painting interior walls
Permit Sometimes Required
Exterior repairs
HVAC replacements
Fencing or walls
Temporary canopy or tent
What is the penalty for building without a permit in Arizona?
There are a few things you can expect to happen if you build without a permit in Arizona.
City citation
Fees
Withdrawn homeowners insurance coverage
Asked to take down construction and pay out of pocket for removal
If you don’t comply with the above list, you could be charged with a misdemeanor. Other legal consequences could ensue.
Don’t worry too much about not following code, however. Especially when you come to our real estate development we will provide you and your architect and/or team of builders everything you need to be successful. We’ve been in this industry for decades and are well-versed with the permit process in Tucson and Marana. Set up an estate lot tour at Saguaro Ranch today to get started!
Speaking of building permits and construction, take a look at the progress our real estate development is making on the Clubhouse! Check in with the Saguaro Ranch YouTube channel to see how construction is going.
