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Interactive Property Improvement Diagram
Whether you are opening or remodeling your business, building, adding to or repairing your residence, our goal is to provide you with the best service possible.
The Building Safety’s mission is to facilitate the development process by applying the highest standards of health, safety and construction industry practices. The department also provides professional and courteous customer service to new and existing building owners within the city.
Any project which affects the exterior of the home must go through the Design Review Board approval process prior to permit submittal. Contact Planning at 623-889-6205.
The interactive house below will allow you to click on an area tag-button to learn more about the necessary requirements in the permitting and inspection process. **Note** This page works best on a desktop computer.

Accessory Buildings
General Information
A permit is required for accessory buildings, which include storage sheds, barns, pool houses, detached garages and workshops that are structures in addition to the main structure on a property. These projects also require approval from the Design Review Board prior to submitting for permits.
Submittal requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the installation or repair of a sewer line, which must comply with the requirements of the International Plumbing Code and International Residential Code. Sewer lines being connected into the main located in a street or alley will also require a Right of Way (ROW) permit from Public Works.
Submittal Requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the installation of a carport. Setbacks for carports in front or side yards are significantly more restrictive than carports in rear yards. The setbacks will be verified as part of the Design Review Board approval process. The Patio Handout may be referenced for details and design guidelines.
Submittal Requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the installation of decks over 30 inches in height and for any existing patio being converted into a deck. The Patio Handout may be used as a reference for permit information and details.
Submittal requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is not required for the construction or addition to a driveway, patio slab or other flat concrete work. Lot coverage by paved material is limited by Municipal Code. Check with Planning for additional information 623-889-6205.
Curb cuts and sidewalk work require an Public Works permit for work in the Right of Way (ROW) and must be done by a licensed contractor.
Submittal Requirements
An inspection is not required for concrete slab work. Curb cuts and sidewalk work will require a final inspection.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for an electric repair or service panel change out. Materials and installation procedures must adhere to the currently adopted International Residential Code and National Electric Code.
Submittal Requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the construction of a new fence or replacement fence made of block or ornamental iron and regardless of height. See the Fence Handout for permit information and standard details.
Submittal Requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required when converting a garage into livable space or enclosing an existing carport into a garage or livable space. Approval by the Design Review Board is required prior to submittal. Contact Planning at 623-889-6205.
Submittal Requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the installation of an RV or vehicular access gate in any fence. Driving surfaces adjacent to the gate must be dustproof, such as grass or gravel. Curbs must be rolled or a driveway curb cut. Access gates off an alley are allowed.
Properties that back up to a street or public area may have a non-vehicular access easement (NVAE) at the rear or side of the property. This means an access gate is not allowed in this location. To verify if your property has a NVAE, contact Planning at 623-889-6205.
Submittal Requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the installation of a patio cover or for extending an existing patio cover. Approval from the Design Review Board is required prior to plan review submittal.
Submittal requirements
Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the installation of retaining walls over 24” in height. Walls higher than 48” require an engineering certification.
Submittal Requirements
Notes for New or Reconstructed Retaining Walls
For the purposes of Table 1, the following shall apply:
The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
This information shall be applicable to all new swimming pools and spas which have a depth of 18 inches or more of water at any point.
Please see the Pool, Spas, and Barriers brochure for more information about State of Arizona requirements for swimming pool barriers.
Litchfield Park requires secondary barriers (alarms or closers) on doors leading to the pool yard.
Submittal Requirements
Required Inspections
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the installation or replacement of a water heater. Installation must comply with the requirements of the currently adopted International Plumbing Code and International Residential Code.
Specific Requirements
Gas Water Heaters
All components listed above must be submitted with the Building Permit Application. Application packages must be completed and submitted to Building Safety at 214 W Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340. Permit fees for water heaters are a flat fee and will be due at time of permit issuance.
Inspections
An inspection will be required upon completion of each part of the work. The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is required for the installation of a new water supply line or repair/replacement of an existing supply line, which must comply with the requirements of the International Plumbing Code and International Residential Code. Water line connections to the City main or into the Right of Way (ROW) require an Public Works ROW permit and work in the ROW must be done by a license contractor.
Specific Requirements
1. Piping must be of an approved material.
2. A shut off valve must be installed prior to entering the house.
3. Burial depth of the water line must be a minimum of 12".
4. Piping sized in accordance with the current International Residential Code and International Plumbing Code.
5. Install a backflow preventer (vacuum breaker) at all exterior hose bib locations.
Submittal Requirements
All components listed above must be submitted with the Building Permit Application. Application packages must be completed and submitted to Building Safety at 214 W Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340. Permit fees are a flat rate for water repairs and will be due at time of permit issuance.
Inspections
An inspection will be required upon completion of each part of the work. The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
A permit is not required for window replacements if the width of the window remains the same. Wider windows require a larger header for support of the walls above, therefore a permit is required.
Submittal requirements (if required)
Inspections
An inspection will be required before new headers are covered. The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Approval by the Design Review Board is required prior to submittal. Contact Planning at 623-889-6205. Roof Plan showing layout of the panels, inverter, and panel and disconnect locations. Provide a one-line diagram, module specifications, supports, connection details and required signage information.
All components listed above must be submitted with the Building Permit Application. Application packages must be completed and submitted to Building Safety at 214 W. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340. Fees are based on the valuation of the project and will be due at time of permit issuance.
Inspections
An inspection will be required upon completion of the work. The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
The Building Safety’s mission is to facilitate the development process by applying the highest standards of health, safety and construction industry practices. The department also provides professional and courteous customer service to new and existing building owners within the city.
Any project which affects the exterior of the home must go through the Design Review Board approval process prior to permit submittal. Contact Planning at 623-889-6205.
The interactive house below will allow you to click on an area tag-button to learn more about the necessary requirements in the permitting and inspection process. **Note** This page works best on a desktop computer.
Accessory Buildings
Sheds / Workshop / Detached Garage / Pool House / Barns
General InformationA permit is required for accessory buildings, which include storage sheds, barns, pool houses, detached garages and workshops that are structures in addition to the main structure on a property. These projects also require approval from the Design Review Board prior to submitting for permits.
Submittal requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- Plans detailing the scope of work to be done. Include all structural information, electrical and plumbing (if applicable). Plans must be dimensioned to show all widths, depths and heights of the project.
- (2) Copies of a Site Plan
- If electricity or plumbing will be installed in the accessory structure, additional fees will apply.
Inspections
- Foundation
- Framing
- Electrical (if applicable)
- Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Sewer Line
General InformationA permit is required for the installation or repair of a sewer line, which must comply with the requirements of the International Plumbing Code and International Residential Code. Sewer lines being connected into the main located in a street or alley will also require a Right of Way (ROW) permit from Public Works.
Submittal Requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- Public Works Permit Application
- (2) Copies of a Site Plan showing the area to be repaired or constructed.
Inspections
- Rough plumbing
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Carport
General InformationA permit is required for the installation of a carport. Setbacks for carports in front or side yards are significantly more restrictive than carports in rear yards. The setbacks will be verified as part of the Design Review Board approval process. The Patio Handout may be referenced for details and design guidelines.
Submittal Requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- (2) Copies of a Site Plan with dimensions indicating the location of the carport on the property.
- Provide plans with dimensions indicating the size of the structure and how it will be constructed and anchored. This plan should include footings, materials used and spacing of framing members.
Inspections
- Footings
- Framing and structural connections
- Electrical (if applicable)
- Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Decks
General InformationA permit is required for the installation of decks over 30 inches in height and for any existing patio being converted into a deck. The Patio Handout may be used as a reference for permit information and details.
Submittal requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- (2) Copies of a Site Plan, with dimensions indicating the location of the deck on the property.
- Provide plans that indicate size and how the structure will be constructed and anchored. This plan should include materials used and spacing of framing members. Additionally, it should include the guardrails as required by Code. Such guardrails are required to be a minimum of 36 inches in height, with no opening larger than 4".
- If converting an existing patio, codes may require the addition of or replacement of existing rafters and beams if they are not designed to carry the load (weight) of people walking on the new surface.
Inspections
- Footings
- Framing and structural connections
- Electrical (if applicable)
- Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Driveways / Sidewalks
General InformationA permit is not required for the construction or addition to a driveway, patio slab or other flat concrete work. Lot coverage by paved material is limited by Municipal Code. Check with Planning for additional information 623-889-6205.
Curb cuts and sidewalk work require an Public Works permit for work in the Right of Way (ROW) and must be done by a licensed contractor.
Submittal Requirements
- Public Works Permit Application
- (2) copies of a site plan showing location of work to be done
An inspection is not required for concrete slab work. Curb cuts and sidewalk work will require a final inspection.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Electric Panel Replacement or Repair
General InformationA permit is required for an electric repair or service panel change out. Materials and installation procedures must adhere to the currently adopted International Residential Code and National Electric Code.
Submittal Requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- This type of work generally does not require any type of plans to be submitted.
Inspections
- Electrical rough (with new construction)
- Clearance or Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Fences
General InformationA permit is required for the construction of a new fence or replacement fence made of block or ornamental iron and regardless of height. See the Fence Handout for permit information and standard details.
Submittal Requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- (2) Copies of a Site Plan with dimensions indicating the location of the fence on the property and the length of the new fence.
Inspections
- Footings
- Pilasters (masonry only)
- Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Garage Conversions/Carport or Patio Enclosures
General InformationA permit is required when converting a garage into livable space or enclosing an existing carport into a garage or livable space. Approval by the Design Review Board is required prior to submittal. Contact Planning at 623-889-6205.
Submittal Requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- Provide plans which outline the scope of work to be done. Plans should include all room dimensions, window and door sizes, any existing conditions (such as a water heater in the space) and electrical (outlets and lights) and mechanical (AC) to the new livable areas.
- If converted into a sleeping area, plans must include a smoke detector in the room.
- Rooms must be accessible through the existing house. No exterior only entrances allowed.
Inspections
- Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical rough
- Framing and structural
- Plumbing top out
- Energy (Insulation)
- Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Heating and Air Conditioning Repair or Replacement
General Information- Mechanical System Requirements: Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs to a mechanical system shall conform to the requirements for a new mechanical system without requiring the entire existing system to be brought up to current codes. Additions, alterations or repairs shall not cause an existing mechanical system to become unsafe, hazardous or overloaded.
- Appliance Access: Appliances shall be accessible for inspection, service, repair and replacement without removing permanent construction. A catwalk or passageway in an attic shall have continuous solid flooring or attic access (30 inches wide).
- Clearances from Combustible Construction: There should be no less than a 1-inch space between Type B vent pipe and any combustible surface.
- Installation: Heating and cooling equipment and appliances shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and the requirements of the current adopted code.
- Condensate Disposal: Condensate from all cooling coils or evaporators shall be conveyed from the drain pan outlet to an approved place of disposal. Condensate shall not discharge into a street, alley or other areas so as to cause a nuisance.
- Insulation of Refrigerant Piping: Piping and fittings for refrigerant vapor (suction) lines shall be insulated with ¾” pipe insulation.
- Gas Appliances: Gas connections shall be piped by means of approved flex connector with approved ball valve type stop. Hard black pipe must extend a least 1” from unit.
- Electrical Requirements: A lighting fixture controlled by a switch located at the required passageway opening and a receptacle service outlet shall be provided at or near the appliance location in accordance with current codes. An electrical disconnect is required for equipment. The electric branch circuit should be connected to the HVAC unit with an approved connector or bushing. Over current protection shall comply with manufacturer’s specifications.
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- Plans for this type of permit are generally not required.
Inspections
- Rough Mechanical/ Electric
- Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
RV or Vehicular Access Gates
General informationA permit is required for the installation of an RV or vehicular access gate in any fence. Driving surfaces adjacent to the gate must be dustproof, such as grass or gravel. Curbs must be rolled or a driveway curb cut. Access gates off an alley are allowed.
Properties that back up to a street or public area may have a non-vehicular access easement (NVAE) at the rear or side of the property. This means an access gate is not allowed in this location. To verify if your property has a NVAE, contact Planning at 623-889-6205.
Submittal Requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- Site Plan showing gate location, curb type or access.
Inspections
- Footing
- Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Patio Cover/Ramada/Gazebo
General InformationA permit is required for the installation of a patio cover or for extending an existing patio cover. Approval from the Design Review Board is required prior to plan review submittal.
Submittal requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- (2) Copies of a Site Plan, with dimensions indicating the size and location of the patio cover on the property.
- Provide dimensions for the width, depth and height of the patio and indicate how the structure will be constructed and anchored. This plan should include materials used and spacing of framing members.
Inspections
- Footings
- Framing and structural
- Electrical (if applicable)
- Final
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Retaining Walls
General InformationA permit is required for the installation of retaining walls over 24” in height. Walls higher than 48” require an engineering certification.
Submittal Requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- (2) Copies of a site plan of property with dimensions indicating the location of the retaining wall on the property, including length of wall. Site Plan Template
- If 24” to 48” in height, provide plans which indicate how the wall and footings will be constructed. Above 48”, include engineering designs and calculations.
|
Wall Height |
Engineer Design Required |
Concrete Only (see note 3) |
Approved Materials other than Wood |
Permit Required |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Requirements for Walls Supporting Permanent Construction (see note 1) |
less than 2 ft. |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
2 ft. - 3.99 ft. |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
|
4ft. + |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Notes for New or Reconstructed Retaining Walls
For the purposes of Table 1, the following shall apply:
- Permanent construction is defined as any construction that requires a building permit from the City.
- The retaining wall is assumed to support permanent construction if the setback from the top of the wall to the permanent construction is less than 1.5 times the height of the wall, unless a geotechnical report prepared by a licensed engineer states that a structure closer to the wall does not bear on the wall.
- A multi-tier wall shall be considered a single wall if the base of the upper wall is set back from the top of the lower wall less than 1.5 times the height of the lower wall.
- When an engineered design is required, the building permit shall include a copy of the sealed, signed, and dated design from the engineer. When a building permit is required, but an engineered design is not, the owner shall provide construction drawings indicating the location, height, and material of the retaining wall.
- Prefabricated concrete products may be used upon approval of the Building Official.
- Footing
- Final
The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Swimming Pools/Spas
General InformationThis information shall be applicable to all new swimming pools and spas which have a depth of 18 inches or more of water at any point.
Please see the Pool, Spas, and Barriers brochure for more information about State of Arizona requirements for swimming pool barriers.
Litchfield Park requires secondary barriers (alarms or closers) on doors leading to the pool yard.
Submittal Requirements
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- (2) Copies of a Site Plan, with dimensions indicating the location of the swimming pool including setback dimensions to property lines, utilities and structures.
- Provide an engineer stamped set of pool standards or design plans.
Required Inspections
- Pre-gunite
- PrePlaster
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Water Heaters
General InformationA permit is required for the installation or replacement of a water heater. Installation must comply with the requirements of the currently adopted International Plumbing Code and International Residential Code.
Specific Requirements
Gas Water Heaters
- Upper and lower combustion air must be installed or maintained when a water heater is installed in an enclosed area.
- There must be a 1" clearance on water heater vent from all combustible materials and manufacturer's specifications must be followed.
- The maximum length of flex gas pipe allowed is 36" with 1/2" diameter minimum size.
- Shall be installed per manufacturer’s installation instructions.
- Gas sizing or electrical supply may require an upgraded line. Provide manufacturer’s specification sheets for review and at time of inspection.
- Shall be installed per manufacturer’s installation instructions. Provide specification sheets at time of inspection.
- Water heater pan (where required) must be approved for application and have a 1" drain line to outside or to an approved receptor.
- The temperature and pressure relief valve discharge pipe shall discharge outside not less than 6" above or 24” above or ground/ floor level or into an approved indirect waste receptor.
- There must be an isolation valve on cold water pipe of heater to shut off water.
- If installed in a garage, the source of ignition (pilot light or electrical connection) must be elevated 18” above the floor of the garage.
- Provide an expansion tank on all tank type water heaters.
All components listed above must be submitted with the Building Permit Application. Application packages must be completed and submitted to Building Safety at 214 W Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340. Permit fees for water heaters are a flat fee and will be due at time of permit issuance.
Inspections
An inspection will be required upon completion of each part of the work. The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Water Supply Line Repair
General InformationA permit is required for the installation of a new water supply line or repair/replacement of an existing supply line, which must comply with the requirements of the International Plumbing Code and International Residential Code. Water line connections to the City main or into the Right of Way (ROW) require an Public Works ROW permit and work in the ROW must be done by a license contractor.
Specific Requirements
1. Piping must be of an approved material.
2. A shut off valve must be installed prior to entering the house.
3. Burial depth of the water line must be a minimum of 12".
4. Piping sized in accordance with the current International Residential Code and International Plumbing Code.
5. Install a backflow preventer (vacuum breaker) at all exterior hose bib locations.
Submittal Requirements
All components listed above must be submitted with the Building Permit Application. Application packages must be completed and submitted to Building Safety at 214 W Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340. Permit fees are a flat rate for water repairs and will be due at time of permit issuance.
Inspections
An inspection will be required upon completion of each part of the work. The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Window Replacement
General InformationA permit is not required for window replacements if the width of the window remains the same. Wider windows require a larger header for support of the walls above, therefore a permit is required.
Submittal requirements (if required)
- Permit/Plan Review Application
- Plans showing new window sizes and enlarged header sizes.
Inspections
An inspection will be required before new headers are covered. The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram
Solar PV System
Submittal requirementsApproval by the Design Review Board is required prior to submittal. Contact Planning at 623-889-6205. Roof Plan showing layout of the panels, inverter, and panel and disconnect locations. Provide a one-line diagram, module specifications, supports, connection details and required signage information.
All components listed above must be submitted with the Building Permit Application. Application packages must be completed and submitted to Building Safety at 214 W. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340. Fees are based on the valuation of the project and will be due at time of permit issuance.
Inspections
An inspection will be required upon completion of the work. The inspection request line number is 623-935-1066 or email at building@litchfield-park.org. Our office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any inspection called in before 3:00 p.m. will be made the next business day.
Please contact Building Safety for additional information at 623-935-1066.
>>Back to Interactive Diagram