City Building Permits

Safford, AZ Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Safford, Arizona. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Arizona Graham County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Safford.

Department
City of Safford Planning & Community Development
Address
808 S. 8th Avenue, PO Box 272, Safford, AZ 85548
Phone
(928) 432-4140

Online Permit Portal

Platform: City Online System • Account required: Yes • Submission: Online only

Application Process

  1. Contact City of Safford Planning & Community Development at (928) 432-4140.
  2. Download and complete the Building Permit Application.
  3. Prepare scaled plans showing lot dimensions, existing and proposed buildings, and proposed off-street parking layout.
  4. Submit application and all required documents through the city's online system or in person.
  5. City staff reviews completeness and routes for Planning and Community Development, Utilities, Public Works, and/or Engineering approval.
  6. Pay the permit fee.
  7. Receive building permit and schedule required inspections with city staff.
  8. Comply with inspection requirements and obtain final approval before occupancy.

Typical processing time: 5-10 business days for initial review; varies based on project complexity and required departmental reviews.

Source: City of Safford Planning & Community Development

General Requirements

A building permit is required for any person desiring to construct, remodel, or move a building or structure within the City of Safford before commencing construction, per the city's zoning code.

Required Documents

  • Completed Building Permit Application
  • Scaled plans showing lot dimensions, existing and proposed buildings, and proposed off-street parking layout
  • Proof of property ownership or authorization to apply
  • Development review forms as applicable
Permit validity
Per city zoning code, no building or structure may be constructed, reconstructed, altered, or moved without a permit from the Building Inspector or Zoning Administrator.
Building code
2015 International Building Code, 2015 International Existing Building Code, 2015 International Residential Code, 2015 International Plumbing Code, 2015 International Mechanical Code, 2015 International Fuel Gas Code, 2015 International Fire Code, 2014 National Electrical Code, ADA standards, and Arizona swimming pool safety statute.
Contractor requirements
Contractors must hold a valid Arizona Contractor License and maintain current city business license.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the City of Safford Planning & Community Development to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

  • (928) 432-4140 (phone)

Typical inspection sequence: Inspections may be required by Planning and Community Development, Utilities, Public Works, and/or Engineering depending on project scope. Common inspection types include rough plumbing, framing/roof, MEP, and final building inspection.

Additional Resources

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the City of Safford Planning & Community Development before applying.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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