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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Graham County
A building permit is required to erect, construct, reconstruct, alter, place, or use any building within Graham County land-use jurisdiction without first obtaining a building permit, per County Zoning Ordinance Section 5.6.2.
Note: Consult County Planning and Zoning at (928) 428-0410 to determine if your proposed work requires a permit.
- Completed building permit application
- Sketch showing proposed construction and compliance with land-use ordinance
- Proof of approved septic system (for residential permits) or assurance it will be installed before occupancy
- Proof of property ownership or authorization to apply
- Any applicable state or federal agency approvals
- Building code
- Graham County zoning ordinance references 2003 International Building Code, 2003 International Residential Code, 2003 International Existing Building Code, 2003 International Mechanical Code, 2003 International Fire Code, 2003 ICC Electrical Code, 2002 National Electrical Code, 1994 Uniform Plumbing Code, and 2003 International Energy Conservation Code (for county buildings only). However, ordinance also requires adherence to most recent editions of IBC, UPC, UMC, and NEC. Applicants should confirm current enforcement edition with County Planning and Zoning.
- Permit validity
- A building permit is valid for one year from issuance to start construction. Renewals are handled as new permits.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold a valid Arizona Contractor License.
Source: Graham County Planning and Zoning / Community Development ↗
Application process
Typical processing: 5-10 business days, depending on application completeness and county review workload.
- 01 Determine if your property is in unincorporated Graham County (not within Safford, Thatcher, or Pima city/town limits).
- 02 Verify that the parcel is not on San Carlos Apache Indian Tribe land.
- 03 Prepare a sketch of the proposed construction showing compliance with Graham County land-use ordinance.
- 04 Submit the permit application and all required documents through the county's online portal.
- 05 County staff reviews the application and routes for Planning and Zoning approval.
- 06 Pay the permit fee.
- 07 Receive building permit and schedule required inspections.
- 08 Comply with inspection requirements and obtain a certificate of occupancy after final inspection.
Typical processing time: 5-10 business days, depending on application completeness and county review workload.
Source: Graham County Planning and Zoning / Community Development ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (928) 428-0410 (phone)
Typical sequence: Typical sequence includes rough plumbing, framing/roof, MEP, drywall, and final inspections. A certificate of occupancy is issued after final inspection confirms ordinance compliance and required health and safety conditions.
Source: Graham County Planning and Zoning / Community Development ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Graham County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Graham County, AZ? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Graham County, AZ? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Graham County, AZ? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Graham County, AZ? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Graham County Planning and Zoning / Community Development before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.