Director
Judy Anderson

Contact Us
Email

Location
1415 Melody Lane, Building E.
Bisbee, Arizona 85603

Phone (520)432-9240
Fax (520)432-9278

Disclaimer

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Zoning Division

QUESTIONS

1. When do I need a zoning/use permit?

2. Do I need a permit to open a new business in an existing building?

3. Do I need a permit to install or relocate a mobile home on my property?

4. My project needs a new septic system. Do I need to have a septic system designed prior to permit application?

5. When do I need a clearing permit?

6. How long does it take to get a permit?

7. What Building Code should I use?

ANSWERS

1. When do I need a zoning/use permit?

A permit is required for any construction or remodeling with a value over $1000 (market value of materials and labor). In addition, within the Building Safety Code Area (the majority of the western part of the County) a building permit is required for all work not exempt from the Building Code. (Building FAQs)

Residential Permits

2. Do I need a permit to open a new business in an existing building?

Yes. A permit is required to change the use of an existing building, or to erect a new sign.

Commercial/Non-Residential Permits

3. Do I need a permit to install or relocate a manufactured or mobile home on my property?

Yes. All manufactured and mobile homes require an installation permit and must be inspected and approved prior to occupancy. The County enforces Arizona State Installation Standards and inspects blocking and all utility connections for mobile/manufactured homes and factory built buildings in the County.

4. My project needs a new septic system. Do I need to have a septic system designed prior to permit application?

Yes. State law requires a certified site evaluator to design the septic system and leach field prior to permit application. The certified site evaluator will indicate the location and design of your system on a site plan for your project, which is required as part of the permit application.

5. When do I need a clearing permit?

A clearing permit is required before clearing (scraping the land to remove vegetation) 1 acre or more. Dust and erosion control measures must be shown on the Clearing Permit application.

6. How long does it take to get a permit?

Residential permits are generally issued within one week of a complete application. Commercial/Non-residential permits take 4 weeks or more, depending on the size and complexity of the project. A complete application is required to process your permit application.

7. What Building Code should I use?

The County has adopted the Building Safety Code (Cochise County Building Safety Code) for areas within the western portion of the County. In other areas of the County, State rules apply (1997 UBC & 1994 UPC).