Arizona, Gila County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Gila County Building & Safety Division

The Gila County Community Development Department, which includes the Building & Safety Division, is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for building permits and safety in Gila County. They are responsible for reviewing plans, issuing permits, and conducting inspections to ensure compliance with building codes and ordinances. For specific inquiries or to obtain permit applications, you can contact them via email at [email protected] or visit their offices.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

The regulations and permit requirements discussed apply to properties located in the unincorporated areas of Gila County. It is the property owner's responsibility to obtain all necessary permits. Beginning work without a permit can result in investigation fees double the permit fee.

Permit Triggers for Demolition Work During a Remodel

A permit is generally required for any demolition work as part of a remodel or renovation project. According to the International Residential Code (IRC) adopted by Gila County, a permit is needed to "demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure." Demolition plans may need to be submitted for review, and an asbestos review might be necessary prior to commencing demolition activities, especially if asbestos-containing materials are suspected.

Permit Requirements for Converting Non-Living Spaces

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas typically requires a building permit. This is because these conversions involve significant alterations to the structure and systems of the home, necessitating compliance with building codes for safety and occupancy.

Garages: Converting a garage into living space often requires a permit, especially if it involves adding insulation, installing drywall, running new electrical circuits, or plumbing. The garage must meet the same safety standards as other habitable rooms, including minimum ceiling heights, proper egress, adequate insulation, and professionally installed electrical and HVAC systems.
Attics: Attic conversions that create habitable space (e.g., bedrooms, offices) almost always require a permit. This is due to the need to meet specific building codes for safety and occupancy, which include minimum ceiling heights (often 7 feet for at least 50% of the space), minimum room dimensions, and adequate egress (typically a staircase and an egress window). Structural changes to the roof or framing will also necessitate a permit and potentially an engineering review.
Unfinished Basements: Converting an unfinished basement into a habitable area generally requires a permit. This is because it involves structural changes, adding utilities (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), and ensuring the space meets minimum ceiling height requirements (not less than 7 feet for habitable spaces, though obstructions can be lower).

Resources to Learn More

Gila County Community Development Department: https://www.gilacountyaz.gov/government/community_development
Gila County Building Safety Department Contact Information: 928-474-1076
Gila County Building Safety Department Addresses: 745 N Rose Mofford Way, Globe, Arizona 85501 and 608 East Hwy 260, Payson, Arizona 85541
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Find Remodeler Contractors in Arizona

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Arizona, including Gila County.

Arizona Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Arizona State Building Codes and Legislation for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

Arizona's approach to building codes for remodelers and residential renovations is characterized by a "home rule" system, meaning that building codes are adopted and enforced at the local level by individual cities, towns, and counties. While there isn't a single, statewide building code mandated for all jurisdictions, most localities base their codes on the International Code Council's (I-Code) family of model codes, such as the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC). The specific version of these codes adopted can vary, with many jurisdictions transitioning from the 2018 I-Codes to the 2021 versions. It is crucial for remodelers and homeowners to verify the currently adopted codes with the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for any given project.

The International Existing Building Code (IEBC) is also adopted by some jurisdictions, such as Maricopa County, which adopted the 2018 IEBC. Phoenix has also amended the International Existing Building Code, with their adopted version being part of the Phoenix Building Construction Code.

Primary State Boards or Agencies Setting Standards

While local AHJs are the primary enforcers of building codes, certain state agencies have authority over specific areas:

Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC): The ROC licenses and regulates contractors in Arizona. They establish rules and standards for workmanship and professional conduct, which must be followed in conjunction with applicable building codes.
Office of the State Fire Marshal: This office establishes minimum statewide standards for electrical safety, recently adopting the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC).
Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH): The ADOH regulates factory-built buildings and adopts minimum codes for manufactured housing.

Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines

The distinction between cosmetic and structural alterations, and the applicability of demolition guidelines, is generally determined by the scope of work and local AHJ requirements.

Cosmetic Remodels: These typically involve aesthetic changes that do not affect the structural integrity or essential systems of a building. Examples include painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, and replacing countertops or hardware. Generally, purely cosmetic work does not require a permit.
Structural Alterations: These involve changes to the building's structure, such as removing or altering load-bearing walls, modifying the foundation, converting attics or basements to habitable spaces, or making significant changes to plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems. These types of renovations almost always require a building permit. Converting attics or basements to habitable living spaces, for instance, is considered a structural alteration and requires permits.
Demolition Guidelines: A demolition permit is required before the demolition of any part of a building, whether interior or exterior. Demolition plans may be required, and an asbestos review is often part of the process. Specific requirements for demolition permits, including potential plan reviews and notification periods, can vary by jurisdiction and the nature of the demolition (e.g., historic properties, commercial vs. residential). Demolition work that involves wrecking any load-supporting structural member of a facility requires a permit.

It's important to note that even for projects that might seem minor, local ordinances can dictate permit requirements. For example, some municipalities may require permits for finishing a basement or for certain window and door replacements if the size or configuration is changed.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Gila County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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