Unincorporated Cochise County

Cochise County states that permits are generally required for construction, structural remodeling, or grading projects, and that under state law any new structure or renovation with a value of $1,000 or more requires a permit.

• Exempt Reroofing without structural changes or heavier materials
• Exempt Re-siding or replacement of exterior trim
• Exempt Gutters and downspouts
• Exempt Soffit/gable/roof ventilation
• Exempt Replacing existing windows or doors with no structural changes
• Exempt Replacing cabinets or countertops
• Exempt Painting or wallpapering

Note: Exempt work must still comply with County regulations and state law, and a floodplain permit may still be required depending on location. Permit exemptions are almost never needed for buildings, structures, structural remodel or repair, or grading projects; certain minor single-family residential work is exempt.

Building code

The County states it currently applies the 2015 International Building Code, with local amendments, for plan review and construction inspections. The Building Safety Code also incorporates plumbing, electrical, fire, mechanical, and energy conservation standards.

Permit validity

Construction may start only after the permit placard is posted at the site.

Owner-builder

Cochise County offers a Rural Residential Owner-Builder Amendment in eligible rural zoning districts. Option 1 includes plan review and limited inspections and may qualify for a conditioned certificate of occupancy. Option 2 has no plan review and no building inspections and is not eligible for a certificate of occupancy.

Source: Cochise County Development Services, Building Safety Division ↗

1. 01
   Confirm the parcel is in unincorporated Cochise County and verify zoning, floodplain, drainage, access, septic or sewer, well, and fire district requirements.
2. 02
   Create an account in the County permitting portal and apply under the correct permit type.
3. 03
   Upload the required application, site plan, plan checklist items, contractor information if applicable, and any location-specific approvals.
4. 04
   Pay processing fees and any separate septic, right-of-way, or floodplain permit fees if those permits are triggered.
5. 05
   After issuance, post the permit placard and inspection record card before starting work.
6. 06
   Request inspections through the permitting portal and obtain final inspection to close the permit.

Source: Cochise County Development Services, Building Safety Division ↗

Septic, right-of-way, and floodplain permits are separate when applicable.

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• CitizenServe portal (online)

Typical sequence: All required inspections are listed on the permit or inspection record card. The work area must be accessible, the card must be posted, and the work must be ready on the inspection day.

Source: Cochise County Development Services, Building Safety Division ↗