Permit Application Process
The City of South Tucson is proud to announce that, effective March 2, 2026, the City’s first-ever Online Permit Portal and Online Code Complaint Portal are now live.
Permit Management Portal
Residents, contractors, and business owners can now conveniently submit permit applications and file code compliance complaints online. This new system streamlines the submission process, improves efficiency, and enhances accessibility by allowing users to submit requests anytime, from anywhere.
The launch of these portals marks a significant milestone in the City’s ongoing commitment to modernizing services, increasing transparency, and improving customer service for the South Tucson community.
For more information and to access the new portals, please visit the City’s official website or contact City Hall during regular business hours.
Permits and Inspections for Residential Projects
Most residential construction projects require a permit and inspections. This includes work such as porches, additions, and mechanical equipment installations like air conditioners and water heaters. If the project involves new work, such as replacing gas piping, a detailed plan may be required to obtain the permit.
Responsibility of the Property Owner
It is the responsibility of the homeowner or property owner to submit plans and secure permits for the following types of work:
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Construction of all new residential buildings
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Electrical work including service reconnections, service upgrades, and panel replacements or repairs
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Gas line pressure tests (for new or replacement lines)
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Installation or replacement of water heaters
- Furnaces, Heat Pumps, Air Conditioners (new or replacement) & Evaporative Coolers (new only) NOTE: Load and sizing calculations are required for new AND replacement HVAC equipment
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All residential walls or fences (require site plan review for Zoning Compliance)
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Walls or fences over 7 feet tall require a building permit and a structural engineered design
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Detached accessory structures larger than 200 square feet (e.g., storage sheds)
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Porches, additions, and garages
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Remodeling of existing structures
Design and Plan Requirements
Planning and Development Services can review plans submitted by customers, but we do not offer design services. If you need assistance with creating construction plans, please consult a licensed design professional. All submitted plans must be neat, legible, and well-organized.
Rental Units and Commercial Permits
Rental properties are considered commercial. All commercial permits require the involvement of a licensed contractor.
Plan Review Process
Submitted plans are reviewed by staff across various departments to ensure compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, floodplain requirements, fire safety standards, and other applicable codes. Be sure to review all relevant codes as you develop your project plans.
Work Started Without a Permit
Permits can be issued for work that has already begun or been completed, but all standard requirements still apply, including submission of full construction drawings and successful completion of inspections. However, if your project is already in progress without a permit, you must stop work immediately and obtain the necessary approvals before continuing.
Submittal Checklist
To facilitate the timeliness of the plan review process, the checklists below (PDF) has been provided for the convenience of our customers. Please utilize this information to prepare your submittal package and include a completed copy of this form with your application. The submittal of complete and accurate plan sets will generally lead to fewer delays and staff requests for revision. Only submittals found to be complete will be accepted into the building review process. Incomplete submittals will be returned to the applicant.
Sign Permitting
The City of South Tucson reviews and issues permits for permanent building-mounted and freestanding signs, and conducts related sign permit inspections. Please click the link below to apply for a permanent sign permit.