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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Clifton
A building permit is required for any construction, alteration, repair, or demolition within the Town of Clifton unless the work falls within listed exemptions.
- Exempt Storage structures not over 200 square feet
- Exempt Fences not over 6 feet in height
- Exempt Retaining walls not over 4 feet
- Exempt Sidewalks and driveways
- Exempt Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work
- Exempt Certain window awnings
- Exempt Decks not over 200 square feet and not more than 30 inches above grade
- Exempt Portable heating, ventilation, or cooling units
- Exempt Replacement of minor parts that do not alter equipment approval or make equipment unsafe
Note: Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from other town requirements or codes. Confirm edge cases with the Building Department before proceeding.
- Completed building permit application
- Site plan (scaled)
- Footing and foundation plan
- Floor plan
- Framing plans
- Elevations
- Electrical plans
- Plumbing information
- Building code
- 2009 International Building Code
Application process
Typical processing: Varies; consult with Building Inspector for specific project timeline.
- 01 Review Clifton's exempt work categories and determine if your project requires a building permit.
- 02 Download the residential permit checklist and building permit application from the town website.
- 03 Prepare all required scaled drawings including site plan, footing and foundation plan, floor plan, framing plans, elevations, electrical plans, and plumbing information.
- 04 Create a MyGov account and submit permit application with all required documents online.
- 05 Town staff reviews the application for completeness and permits.
- 06 Contact the Building Inspector at least two days before inspections are needed.
- 07 Receive permit approval and proceed with construction.
Typical processing time: Varies; consult with Building Inspector for specific project timeline.
Fee schedule
Clifton building permit fees
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (928) 322-7913 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Notify building inspector at least two days before inspection is needed.
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Frequently asked
Common questions about Clifton permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Clifton, AZ? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Clifton, AZ? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Clifton, AZ? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Clifton, AZ? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Clifton, AZ? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Clifton, AZ? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Department / Code Enforcement before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.