Bolthole Index

La Paz County, Arizona

Building permits, zoning and land rules in La Paz County, Arizona

32Index Score / 100
#12 of 15 in Arizona

Unincorporated La Paz County, Arizona requires building permits for construction and regulated building work, with limited exemptions.1 County zoning clearance is also required before regulated land use or structural work.2 Quartzsite issues its own building permits; septic applications throughout La Paz County go to La Paz County Community Development under ADEQ-delegated authority.345

At a glance

Building permit
Required before construction in unincorporated areas6
Zoning
County zoning applies in unincorporated areas2
Septic
County approval is required before construction7
RV living
Allowed conditionally in RVS and Rural Agricultural districts89
Tiny home
Park-model residence depends on zoning, wastewater and a placement permit10
Owner-builder
Contractor-license exemption is conditional; building permits still apply11
Private well
File with ADWR and obtain county well approval12

Who to call

Building permits

La Paz County Building and Safety Department

Building permits, plan review and inspections in unincorporated La Paz County

comdev@lapaz.gov

Septic permits

La Paz County Community Development

Onsite-wastewater applications, inspections, discharge authorizations and system transfers

(928) 669-6138

Floodplain permits

La Paz County Community Development

Floodplain Use Permits and floodplain-development review

928-669-6139

comdev@lapaz.gov

1112 S. Joshua Ave., Ste. 202 Parker, AZ 85344

Roads & driveways

La Paz County Public Works

Encroachment permits for driveways and other work in county rights-of-way

PO Box 3580 | Parker, AZ 85344

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in La Paz County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in La Paz County, Arizona?

Unincorporated La Paz County requires building permits for construction and regulated building work, although limited exemptions apply.1 The county building code covers unincorporated areas excluding Indian Reservations and adopts the 2018 International Residential Code and 2020 National Electrical Code, among other codes.13 A nursery or agricultural shade-cloth structure without service systems is exempt from the building permit, but must still comply with other applicable codes and ordinances.14

Zoning clearance and applicable permits must be obtained before regulated work or a change of use, and construction must remain accessible for required building inspections.215

Who issues building permits in La Paz County, Arizona?

The La Paz County Building and Safety Department regulates development activity and land use in unincorporated La Paz County.16 Send building questions and submittals to comdev@lapaz.gov.16 Inside Quartzsite, the town’s Building Safety Department issues building permits for covered work.3 Septic applications still go to La Paz County Community Development.45

A county application must be complete, accurate and signed by the authorized owner or designated agent.17 The application must describe the work, locate the property, state the intended use and occupancy, include required construction documents and valuation, and supply other information requested by the code official.17 La Paz County publishes a current Community Development fee schedule, and the amount varies with the service, permit type, valuation, plan review and inspections.18

Does La Paz County, Arizona have zoning?

La Paz County zoning clearance is required before regulated land use or structural activity in unincorporated areas.2 Parker and Quartzsite have their own zoning ordinances; septic applications remain with La Paz County Community Development.192045

In the Rural Agricultural districts, up to 2 single-family dwellings per lot—including site-built homes, manufactured homes and park models—are allowed with a building or placement permit and compliance with development and wastewater standards.21 Rural Agricultural setbacks are generally 20 feet front and 10 feet side and rear; buildings housing commercially raised poultry or animals require 50-foot side and rear setbacks, while no setback is required along a property line abutting the Colorado River.22

La Paz County defines a guesthouse as a separate residential area with sleeping, cooking and bathroom facilities: friends or family may use it without compensation, an unattached unit cannot exceed 1,000 square feet, and a conditional use permit is required where the district does not allow the accessory use by right.23

How do septic permits work in La Paz County, Arizona?

La Paz County Community Development processes conventional onsite-septic applications, construction authorizations, inspections, discharge authorizations and system transfers.5 ADEQ delegates onsite-wastewater permit authority to Arizona counties, so submit the application to La Paz County for property located here.4 An off-grid property without sewer service is not exempt: a conventional or alternative onsite system still needs county permitting, Approval to Construct, installation inspection and discharge authorization.24

A complete application includes a Notice of Intent to Discharge, a Uniform Site Investigation Report, and a scaled site plan showing required setbacks and relevant site data.7 After installation, the system requires an inspection and written discharge-authorization materials.25 Only 39.8% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so soil evaluation can materially affect system design.26 Call Community Development at (928) 669-6138 for the county septic process.27

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in La Paz County, Arizona?

La Paz County allows an RV as a principal dwelling in the Recreational Vehicle Subdivision district with a placement permit; a second RV dwelling requires a conditional use permit.8 Rural Agricultural districts allow up to 2 occupied RVs per lot when licensed and operative, with placement permits and compliance with wastewater standards.9 The separate Rural Agricultural temporary-hookup allowance lasts no more than 180 days per calendar year and requires a lawful permanent dwelling, an installed wastewater system, or an approved building or placement permit.28

For a tiny home classified as a park model, permanent residence in unincorporated La Paz County is allowed only where the zoning table permits it; the unit must remain licensed and operative, meet development and wastewater standards, and have a placement permit before placement or use.10 The county defines park models as having 320–400 square feet of gross trailer area when set up, while manufactured homes must have at least 320 square feet when erected; these definitions are not a universal minimum floor area for every home.2930 Accessory structures cannot be used as dwellings in the Recreational Vehicle Subdivision or Manufactured Home Subdivision districts.3132

What are the steps to build a home in La Paz County?

For a home in unincorporated La Paz County, use this order:

  1. Ask Building and Safety to confirm the parcel's zoning district, allowed dwelling type and required zoning clearance.2
  2. If the property needs septic, submit the site investigation, site plan and wastewater application and wait for Approval to Construct.7
  3. If a new well is planned, file the Notice of Intent to Drill with ADWR and obtain the county's separate well approval.12
  4. Submit complete building plans and the signed county application, then obtain the building permit before starting work.617
  5. Obtain a Floodplain Use Permit for development in a mapped floodplain and an encroachment permit for a driveway or other work in county right-of-way.3334
  6. Keep the site accessible for required building and septic inspections.1525 In a Special Flood Hazard Area, the county will not issue a Certificate of Occupancy until the final building inspection is approved and compliant final-elevation certification is submitted.35

What should you check before buying land in La Paz County?

Start with jurisdiction and zoning: county rules govern unincorporated land, while incorporated municipalities may have their own rules.36 Confirm legal and physical access, because a driveway or other work in a county right-of-way needs an encroachment permit before work begins.34 A proposed division into 6 or more sale lots is regulated as a subdivision unless every lot exceeds 36 acres, and a subdivision permit is required.37 Check the flood map early; mapped-floodplain development needs a separate Floodplain Use Permit even when another activity is exempt from zoning or building codes.33

Water deserves equal attention in this dry county. Annual precipitation averages 5.7 inches, and severe drought has occurred in 22.8% of years.3839 A new, deepened or modified well requires an ADWR filing plus county well approval.12 Countywide water and sewer connection requirements could not be confirmed, so identify the serving utility or proposed onsite source before closing. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.7%, and the median annual property-tax bill is $831.4041

Watch-outs

  • The owner-builder exemption concerns contractor licensing: qualifying work must be for the owner’s sole occupancy, not intended for sale, rent, or occupancy by employees or business visitors; covered work still requires a building permit.11
  • A Floodplain Use Permit is separate from other county, state and federal permits, including for projects otherwise exempt from county zoning or building codes.33
  • When a property with a septic system transfers, the seller must obtain a qualifying inspection and the buyer must submit the Notice of Transfer within 15 calendar days after transfer.42
  • A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy lasts 30 days and must be renewed before expiration; the initial request and each renewal carry a non-refundable $500 fee.43
  • The Rural Agricultural temporary-RV allowance is conditional and limited to 180 days per calendar year; it is not blanket permission to camp on every parcel.28

Sources

  1. BUILDING, SAFETY, & PERMITS, quoted and re-checked
  2. La Paz County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  3. Town of Quartzsite: § 150.02 Building permit; fees; posting (La Paz County), quoted and re-checked
  4. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Facility | ADEQ, quoted and re-checked
  5. SANITATION & SEPTIC | La Paz County, AZ, quoted and re-checked
  6. BUILDING, SAFETY, & PERMITS (2026 county census)
  7. General Procedures for Installing Onsite Wastewater (Septic System), quoted and re-checked
  8. La Paz County Ordinance No. 2019-03, quoted and re-checked
  9. La Paz County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  10. BUILDING, SAFETY, & PERMITS, quoted and re-checked
  11. A.R.S. § 32-1121 — Persons not required to be licensed; penalties; applicability, quoted and re-checked
  12. SANITATION & SEPTIC | La Paz County, AZ, quoted and re-checked
  13. 2018 BUILDING CODE - LA PAZ COUNTY, quoted and re-checked
  14. lapaz.gov, quoted and re-checked
  15. APPLICATIONS & CHECKLISTS, quoted and re-checked
  16. La Paz County Building and Safety Department (lapaz.gov)
  17. BUILDING, SAFETY, & PERMITS, quoted and re-checked
  18. FEE SCHEDULE | La Paz County, AZ, quoted and re-checked
  19. Town of Parker: 10-1-1: Short Title (La Paz County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Town of Quartzsite: § 155.01 Zoning regulations adopted by reference (La Paz County), quoted and re-checked
  21. La Paz County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  22. La Paz County Zoning Regulations 2012, quoted and re-checked
  23. La Paz County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  24. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Facility, quoted and re-checked
  25. General Procedures for Installing Onsite Wastewater (Septic System), quoted and re-checked
  26. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  27. La Paz County Community Development (lapaz.gov)
  28. La Paz County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  29. La Paz County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  30. lapaz.gov, quoted and re-checked
  31. La Paz County Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  32. 2012 Zoning Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  33. Floodplain Use Permit Information Guide & Application, quoted and re-checked
  34. Encroachment Permits, quoted and re-checked
  35. CHECKLIST FOR CONSTRUCTION IN A FLOOD ZONE, quoted and re-checked
  36. Building, Safety, & Permits | La Paz County, AZ, quoted and re-checked
  37. Subdivision Permit Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  38. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  39. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  40. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Inspection and Notice of Transfer, quoted and re-checked
  43. REQUEST FOR TEMPORARY CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY, quoted and re-checked

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, La Paz County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleLa Paz CountyYuma CountyMaricopa CountyYavapai CountyMohave CountyPinal CountyCoconino County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Community Development Dept.County Development ServicesCounty Env. Services Dept.County Development ServicesCounty Development ServicesCounty Air Quality & Env. HealthCounty Community Development

County locator

La Paz County in Arizona

32
County map
La Paz County highlighted among the Arizona counties · colored by Index score

How La Paz County scores

Seclusion77100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1296% ev.
Admin Boringness49100% ev.
Durability23100% ev.
Property Autonomy65100% ev.
Carry Cost85100% ev.

Evidence strength: 99%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$268kTypical home
0.7%Property tax
$2,604Land / acre
5.7"Annual rain
22.8% of yrsSevere drought
124.7 / yr (+29.7)Mid-century 100°F days
84.9 daysMid-century dry spell
0.82" (+5.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.09×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$826Home insurance / yr
2% / yrInsurance growth
3.38%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
2,974People within 30 min
1,061,799People within 2 hr
2,499Radius comparison (15 mi)
3.7People / sq mi
76.3%Federal land
66.6%Land at 15% slope or less
39.8%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
1,125,074 acWorkable land screen
0.1%Wooded land
4.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
72.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in La Paz County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Answers from the rulebook for La Paz County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

La Paz County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction and regulated building, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing work in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • The La Paz County Building and Safety Department regulates development activity and land use within the unincorporated areas of the county.
    • The owner or authorized agent must first apply to the code official and obtain the required permit for regulated repairs, additions, alterations, relocations, demolitions, occupancy changes, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work.
    • Permits are not required for listed exemptions including sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above grade and not over a basement or story below, painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work, temporary motion-picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery, qualifying nursery or agricultural shade-cloth structures without service systems, qualifying window awnings, and movable cases, counters, and partitions not over 69 inches in height.
    • Permit exemptions do not authorize work violating the building code or other applicable laws or ordinances.
    • For emergency equipment replacements and repairs, the permit application must be submitted by the next working business day.
    • Ordinary repairs listed in Section 105.2 do not require application or notice, but ordinary repairs exclude structural-beam or load-bearing-support work, required-egress changes, specified utility piping or wiring work, and work affecting public health or general safety.

    sidewalk or driveway height exemption: <= 30 inches (Must not be over any basement or story below and must not be part of an accessible route.) · movable case, counter, or partition height exemption: <= 69 inches · emergency repair permit application deadline: next working business day

    “The La Paz County Building and Safety Department is responsible for regulating development activity and land use within the unincorporated areas of La Paz County. Obtaining the necessary permits is the first step in ensuring your development activity is successful. The value and safety of your structure rely heavily on obtaining a building permit prior to construction.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner-builders constructing or improving structures in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • The owner may build or improve the structure personally, with the owner's employees, or with duly licensed contractors.
    • The structure must be intended for occupancy solely by the owner.
    • The structure must not be intended for occupancy by the public, the owner's employees, or business visitors.
    • The structure must not be intended for sale or rent.
    • A building permit is still required; the ordinance states that a permit may be issued to qualifying owners, and the county application separately requires a building permit before work starts.
    • A manufactured home or factory-built building installed under this owner provision must be installed by an installer licensed by the Arizona Department of Housing.
    • If the property is sold or rented within one year after completion or issuance of a certificate of occupancy, that is prima facie evidence that the project was undertaken for sale or rent under Arizona law.

    sale or rent restriction: 1 year after completion or issuance of certificate of occupancy (sale or rent within that period may be treated as evidence the project was undertaken for sale or rent)

    “if the structure(s) are intended for occupancy solely by the owner, are not intended for occupancy by the public or employees or business visitors”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    The La Paz County Building Code Ordinance applies to the unincorporated areas of La Paz County, Arizona.

    • Ordinance No. 2024-02 replaced all previously adopted county building codes in their entirety.
    • The ordinance became effective October 17, 2024, thirty-one days after adoption on September 16, 2024.
    • The ordinance defines the county coverage as unincorporated areas of La Paz County excluding Indian Reservations.
    • Arizona Revised Statutes exemptions under §§ 11-812 and 11-865 remain applicable.
    • If the ordinance conflicts with Arizona state law, Arizona state law prevails.
    • The adopted publications include the 2018 International Building Code, 2020 National Electrical Code, 2018 International Existing Building Code, 2018 International Mechanical Code, 2018 International Plumbing Code, 2018 International Fuel Gas Code, 2018 International Property Maintenance Code, 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2018 International Residential Code, and 2018 International Fire Code, with the appendices listed in Section 101.1.

    adoption date: 2024-09-16 · effective date: 2024-10-17 (thirty-one (31) days from the date of adoption) · International Building Code edition: 2018 (including Appendices C, H, I and J) · National Electrical Code edition: 2020 · International Residential Code edition: 2018 (including Appendices A, B, G, H, P and Q)

    “BUILDING CODE ORDINANCE FOR THE UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF LA PAZ COUNTY ARIZONA [...] The following publications are adopted by reference: 1.) International Building Code, 2018 Edition”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Permitted construction in unincorporated La Paz County

    • The project site must remain accessible to the Building Inspector for required inspections.
    • If construction is inconsistent with approved plans or site plan, the Building Inspector may issue a Stop Work order.
    • In flood zones, the applicant must call the Community Development Department for all required inspections; the first inspection verifies elevation and final inspections verify finished flood elevation.
    “The project site must remain accessible to the Building Inspector for required inspections. If construction is determined to be inconsistent with the approved plans or site plan, the Building Inspector may issue a “Stop Work” order.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Construction in a designated Special Flood Hazard Area in unincorporated La Paz County

    • The final inspection must be completed and approved by the building inspector.
    • Final elevation certification must be submitted to the Community Development Department.
    • The certification must comply with the County’s Floodplain Ordinance and the conditions of the Floodplain Use Permit.
    • The source establishes this condition specifically for construction in a flood zone; it does not establish a countywide certificate-of-occupancy rule for all construction.
    “A Certificate of Occupancy will not be issued until the final inspection has been completed and approved by the building inspector, and the final elevation certification has been submitted to the Community Development Department and found to be in compliance with the County’s Floodplain Ordinance and the conditions of the Floodplain Use Permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Temporary occupancy of a structure under a La Paz County Temporary Certificate of Occupancy.
      “the Temporary Certificate of Occupancy ("TCO") is valid for thirty (30) days from the date of issuance”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land use and structures in unincorporated La Paz County subject to the La Paz County Zoning Regulations.

    • Except as otherwise provided in the regulations, land and structures must conform to the regulations.
    • Zoning Clearance and all applicable permits must be obtained from the Director or an authorized deputy before the regulated action occurs.
    • The county ordinance page identifies the 2012 Zoning Regulations as adopted on December 5, 2011, rescinding all prior zoning regulations.
    “Except as otherwise provided herein, no structure shall hereafter be used, created, constructed, enlarged, repaired, improved, removed, converted, demolished, reconstructed, moved, or structurally altered, nor shall any land be used, or changed in use, except in conformity with these regulations; and before such action is taken, Zoning Clearance, and all applicable permits must be obtained from the Director or an authorized deputy.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across La Paz County: county zoning applies in unincorporated areas, while incorporated municipalities may administer their own local land-use rules.

    • This is an aggregate conclusion and does not assert that La Paz County administers each municipal ordinance.
    • For the county-administered area, zoning clearance and applicable permits are required before regulated land use or structural activity.
    • Municipal rules should be checked separately for incorporated areas.
    “The official zoning map of the Town of Quartzsite, Arizona is hereby amended by changing the zoning classification of properties located as set forth below from SR (Suburban Ranch) and RA-5 (Rural Area) to C-2 (Commercial):”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning districts and associated regulations in unincorporated La Paz County

    • The official county page publishes the 2012 zoning regulations and separate regulation documents by zone.
    • The listed districts include commercial, industrial, manufactured-home, planned-development, public-utility, recreational-vehicle, residential, rural-agricultural, site-built-residential, suburban-ranch, and transitional-residential categories.
    • District-specific permitted uses and development standards must be checked in the applicable zoning regulation and setback documents.
    “ZONING REGULATIONS 2012 ZONING REGULATIONS -(whole book) 2012 ZONING REGULATIONS BY ZONE COMMERCIAL (C-1) COMMERCIAL (C-2) HEAVY INDUSTRIAL (HI) LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (LI) MANUFACTURED HOME PARK (MHP) MANUFACTURED HOME SUBDIVISION (MHS)”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Manufactured homes used as dwellings in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • The definition applies to a manufactured home as further defined in A.R.S. §41-2142.
    • The home must be built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling when connected to required utilities.
    • The dimensions include expandable rooms, cabinets, and other projections containing interior space, but exclude bay windows.
    • A manufactured home is distinct from a mobile home, recreational vehicle, factory-built building, and park model.
    • The home must be built to the IRC label.

    minimum erected size: >= 320 square feet

    “Manufactured Home. A structure, as further defined in A.R.S. §41-2142, manufactured off-site after June 15, 1976, transportable in one or more sections, which in the traveling mode, is eight (8) feet or more in width and forty (40) feet or more in length, and when erected on site is three hundred twenty (320 ) square feet or more in size, and which is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein. These dimensions will include all expandable rooms, cabinets, and other projections containing interior space, but do not include bay windows. A “manufactured home” is not a mobile home”, a “recreational vehicle”, a “factory-built” building, nor a “park model”. Manufactured Home is built to the IRC label.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Park model dwellings subject to La Paz County zoning regulations in unincorporated La Paz County.
      “not less than three hundred twenty (320) square feet”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Manufactured Home Subdivision (MHS) zoning districts in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • With a septic system and on-site well, the minimum parcel size is one net acre.
    • With a septic system and community water system, parcels may be less than one acre down to one fourth acre (10,000 square feet).
    • With both sewer and community water systems, parcels may be less than one fourth acre down to one sixth acre (7,000 square feet).

    minimum parcel size with septic and on-site well: 1 net acre · minimum parcel size with septic and community water: >= 10,000 square feet (one fourth acre) · minimum parcel size with sewer and community water: >= 7,000 square feet (one sixth acre)

    “609.06 DIMENSIONAL LIMITS: A. MINIMUM PARCEL SIZE: 1. One (1) net acre with septic system and on-site well. 2. Less than one (1) net acre to one fourth (1/4) acre (10,000 square feet), with septic system required and a community water system. 3. Less than one fourth (1/4) acre to one sixth (1/6) acre (7,000 square feet), if both sewer and community water systems are used.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Structures in the RA-5, RA-10, RA-20, and RA-40 Rural Agriculture zoning districts.

    • Front yard setbacks are designated along the shortest street frontage side.
    • Detached structures must maintain at least three feet from property lines and six feet between structures, except where special construction to meet fire codes has been approved by the La Paz County Building Inspector.
    • Buildings used to house commercially raised poultry or animals require 50-foot side and rear setbacks.
    • No setback is required from a property line abutting the Colorado River.
    • Accessory structures in required rear yards may not occupy more than 30 percent of the required rear yard or be closer than three feet to a side or rear lot line or street setback.

    front setback: 20 feet · side setback: 10 feet (50 feet for buildings used to house commercially raised poultry or animals) · rear setback: 10 feet (50 feet for buildings used to house commercially raised poultry or animals)

    “ALL RA ZONES FRONT SIDES REAR 20’ 10’ 10’”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Structures in Transitional Residential (TR) zoning districts in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • On one-acre lots or parcels, structures including roofs and shades may cover 55 percent of the lot or parcel.
    • On lots or parcels smaller than one acre down to 4,500 square feet, structures including roofs and shades may cover 65 percent of the lot or parcel.

    maximum lot coverage on one-acre lots or parcels: <= 55 percent (includes roofs and shades) · maximum lot coverage on lots smaller than one acre to 4,500 square feet: <= 65 percent (includes roofs and shades)

    “1. On (1) acre lots or parcels, fifty-five (55) percent of the lot or parcel may be covered by structures, including roofs and shades. 2. On less than one (1) acre to four thousand five hundred (4,500) square foot lots, sixty-five (65) percent of the lot or parcel may be covered by structures, including roofs and shades.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Dwellings, garages, storage structures, and shades in Transitional Residential (TR) zoning districts in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • Dwellings, garages, storage structures, and shades are limited to 25 feet.
    • Chimneys, church steeples, antennas, and flagpoles may be erected to any safe and lawful height with a zoning variance, subject to the fall-distance condition stated in the regulation.
    • No structure may intrude into FAA-required airspace.
    • Special airport height limits apply around airports.

    maximum height for dwellings: <= 25 feet · maximum height for garages, storage structures, and shades: <= 25 feet

    “C. HEIGHT LIMITS: TR ZONE 1. Twenty-five (25) feet for dwellings 2. Twenty-five (25) feet for garages, storage structures and shades.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    RV occupancy on lots in La Paz County RA-5, RA-10, RA-20, and RA-40 Rural Agricultural zoning districts.

    • Up to two recreational vehicles per lot may be occupied by the property owner or renter.
    • Vehicles must remain licensed and operative.
    • All applicable development standards must be met, including wastewater and wastewater-disposal requirements.
    • A placement permit is required for RVs placed on privately owned parcels before placement or use.

    recreational vehicles per lot: <= 2 vehicles

    “Two (2) Recreational Vehicles per lot occupied by the property owner/renter, provided the vehicles remain licensed and operative and provided all applicable development standards can be met, including those related to wastewater and wastewater disposal.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Recreational vehicles used as principal dwellings or permitted second dwellings in La Paz County's Recreational Vehicle Subdivision (RVS) zoning district.
      “FOR A RECREATIONAL VEHICLE USED AS A PRINCIPAL DWELLING.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary use of an RV hookup by a non-commercial vehicle in La Paz County RA zoning districts.

    • The use is limited to no more than 180 days per calendar year.
    • A permanent dwelling must have been legally built, or a wastewater and wastewater-disposal system installed, or a building or placement permit approved for the lot or parcel.

    temporary RV use: <= 180 days per calendar year

    “One RV hookup for use by non-commercial vehicles for not more than one hundred eighty (180) days per calendar year, providing that a permanent dwelling has been legally built or wastewater and wastewater disposal system has been installed or a building or placement permit has been approved for that lot or parcel.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Permanent residential occupancy of recreational vehicles, including park models, on privately owned parcels in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • The county zoning schedule recognizes recreational vehicles, including park models, as a principal permanent residence only where the applicable zoning table permits the use.
    • The vehicle must remain licensed and operative.
    • All applicable development standards must be met, including wastewater and wastewater-disposal requirements, and the use must otherwise comply with approved development plans.
    • A placement permit is required before placement or use on privately owned parcels.
    • The county building-permit page states that a home manufactured before June 15, 1976, cannot be placed anywhere in La Paz County.
    “Recreational vehicles, including park models, one per lot, used as a principal permanent residence for a property owner/ renter, provided that the vehicle remains licensed and operative and provided all applicable development standards can be met, including those relating to wastewater and wastewater disposal, and otherwise in accordance with approved development plans.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured-home occupancy in La Paz County RA-5, RA-10, RA-20, and RA-40 Rural Agricultural zoning districts.

    • Up to two residential single-family dwellings, including manufactured homes, are permitted with a building or placement permit.
    • All applicable development standards must be met, including wastewater and wastewater-disposal requirements.
    • Manufactured homes and park models require a placement permit before placement or use.

    residential single-family dwellings per lot: <= 2 dwellings (including site-built homes, park models, and manufactured homes)

    “Two (2) residential single family dwellings, including site built homes, park models and manufactured homes, with a building or placement permit and provided all applicable development standards can be met, including those related to wastewater and wastewater disposal.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — One single-family manufactured home, modular home, park model, or site-built home as a residential unit in the Transitional Residential (TR) zoning district.
      “Transitional Residential Zoning District (TR) - is applied to properties which are intended to be developed to accommodate manufactured, modular and site-built homes on individually owned small lots as the principal use, and it is intended to foster the orderly development of such areas. 607.02 PERMITTED USES: A. One (1) single family residential unit per lot or parcel, in a manufactured or modular home, Park Model or site-built home; with a building or placement permit.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units, also called guest houses, guest quarters, or casitas, in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • The unit must contain at least a sleeping area, kitchen or cooking area, and bathroom or partial bathroom.
    • A guesthouse may be used by friends or family, but compensation may not be paid.
    • An unattached guesthouse is limited to no more than 1,000 square feet.
    • A conditional use permit is required in zoning districts where the accessory use is not allowed by right.
    • A residential area attached to the initial residence by a common wall is not considered a guesthouse.

    maximum size of unattached guesthouse: <= 1000 square feet

    “Accessory Dwelling Unit (also guest house, guest quarters, casita) A separate residential area on the lot or parcel which contains at least a sleeping area, a kitchen or cooking area, and a bathroom or partial bathroom. A guesthouse may be used for friends and/or family, but no compensation may be paid for the use of the guesthouse. Guesthouses not attached to the initial residence are limited to not more than one thousand (1,000) square feet, and require a conditional use permit in zoning districts where such accessory use is not allowed by right. Residential areas attached to the initial residence by a common wall are not considered guest houses.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Prohibited — Using an accessory structure as a dwelling in the Recreational Vehicle Subdivision (RVS) zoning district.
      “B. Accessory structures shall not be used”
    • Prohibited — Use of an accessory structure as a dwelling in the La Paz County MHS Manufactured Home Subdivision zoning district, within unincorporated La Paz County.
      “B. Accessory structures shall not be used for any dwelling or commercial purpose.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Conventional on-site septic wastewater systems in La Paz County, including application processing, permitting, construction authorizations, inspections, discharge authorizations, and transfers.

    • La Paz County Community Development administers the environmental programs under authority delegated by ADEQ.
    • The county page specifically describes conventional on-site septic wastewater systems.
    • Applications, questions, and inquiries are directed to La Paz County Community Development at (928) 669-6138 or comdev@lapaz.gov.
    “The Community Development Department offers application processing and permitting for conventional on-site septic wastewater systems. Services include monitoring site investigations, reviewing applications and installation plans, issuing construction authorizations, inspecting newly installed septic systems, issuing authorizations for discharge from septic systems, and processing transfers of septic systems to new property owners. The authority for the environmental programs is delegated to Community Development by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, often referred to as ADEQ.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Environmental onsite-wastewater programs and permitting administered in La Paz County.
      “The authority for the environmental programs is delegated to Community Development by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, often referred to as ADEQ.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of conventional or alternative onsite wastewater/septic systems in La Paz County.

    • Construction is not authorized until an Approval to Construct is given.
    • A complete application requires the Notice of Intent to Discharge, Uniform Site Investigation Report, and a scaled plot/site plan with required setbacks and relevant data.
    • The system must be installed within two years or the application and Approval to Construct become void.
    • Fees listed by the county include $200 for a standard residential system, $300 for a standard commercial system, and $450 for an alternative system.
    • Installing without a permit is subject to listed fees of $1,000 for a standard system and $1,500 for an alternative system.

    standard residential septic system fee: 200 USD · standard commercial septic system fee: 300 USD · alternative septic system fee: 450 USD · Approval to Construct validity: 2 years (The application and Approval to Construct become void if the system is not installed within two years.)

    “Construction is not authorized until an Approval to Construct is given. See fee structure below for installing a septic system without a permit.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    New septic-system installation inspections in La Paz County.

    • Inspection is required after the tank is set and leach lines are installed.
    • The tank must be water tested and passed or repaired.
    • The Request for Discharge Authorization and Certificate of Water Tightness Test must be submitted by email.
    • A verbal request is not valid and an inspection will not be conducted.
    • A Red Card requires reinspection; the listed Red Card reinspection fee is $100.

    Red Card reinspection fee: 100 USD

    “An inspection is required after the tank is set and the leach lines are installed.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Conventional or alternative onsite wastewater treatment systems used where sewer service is unavailable in La Paz County.

    • Onsite wastewater systems require county permitting and Approval to Construct before construction.
    • County installation inspection and discharge authorization requirements apply.
    • ADEQ statewide rules and delegated-county requirements continue to apply.
    “Onsite Wastewater Treatment Facilities (OWTFs) are commonly known as septic systems and are widespread throughout Arizona. Today, there are estimated to be more than 600,000 systems in the State providing wastewater treatment for locations that do not have a sewer connection.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes under the county building-permit exemption rules.

    • The exemption applies to shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes.
    • Service systems are excluded from the exemption.
    • The exemption does not authorize work that violates the building code or other applicable laws or ordinances.
    “105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following: 4. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, and not including service systems.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision developments, RV parks, and developments meeting the La Paz County Zoning Regulations' definition of subdivision in unincorporated La Paz County.

    • A subdivision permit is required.
    • Cooperatives where land is undivided are considered subdivisions.
    • Land divided into 6 or more lots to be sold is considered a subdivision unless each lot is greater than 36 acres.
    • The final map must be approved by the Board before approval to construct is issued.
    • ADEQ approval of water and wastewater systems is required before a permit to construct.

    lot-count threshold: >= 6 lots (unless each lot is greater than 36 acres) · traffic-report threshold: >= 50 dwelling units (see subdivision regulations for definition of dwelling unit)

    “The following items are required for a permit for a subdivision development. This permit is applicable for subdivisions, RV Parks, and any development meeting the definition of subdivision per the La Paz County Zoning Regulations. Cooperatives where land is undivided shall be considered a subdivision, and land divided into 6 or more lots to be sold shall be considered a subdivision unless greater than 36 acres each.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveways and other work within a La Paz County right-of-way

    • An encroachment permit is required for work within any La Paz County right-of-way, including driveways.
    • Applications with drawings or site plans must be submitted before work starts.
    • Payment must be received before the application can be processed.
    • Work must not begin until the permit is received; work without a permit is subject to a fee of double the permit fee.
    • A 2.95% or minimum $1.95 card-payment service fee applies when paying by debit or credit card.

    unauthorized work fee: 2 times permit fee · card payment service fee: 2.95 percent of payment amount (minimum fee of $1.95)

    “Encroachment Permits are required for any work being done within any La Paz County Right-of-Way, such as utility installation or maintenance and repair, driveways, grading, fence removal or replacement, etc.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development within mapped floodplains regulated by the La Paz County Flood Control District

    • A Floodplain Use Permit is required in addition to all other county, state, and federal permits.
    • Projects exempt from the La Paz County Zoning Ordinance or building codes are not exempt from Floodplain Use Permit requirements; examples include fences, agricultural activities, sand and gravel operations, and government projects.
    • Applicants must obtain required permits and approvals before construction begins.
    • Floodplain Use Permit applications must include the required application, site plan, applicable hydrology and hydraulic reports, elevation certifications, and current fees.
    • Colorado River Floodway projects require U.S. Bureau of Reclamation approval or clearance.
    • A final elevation certificate and final inspection approval are required before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued.

    stand-alone Floodplain Use Permit administrative completeness review: 15 business days · minimum elevation for structures: >= 1 foot above base flood elevation (as stated in the application checklist for structures)

    “Floodplain development requires a Floodplain Use Permit in addition to all other county, state, and federal permits.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Community Development Department permit and related service fees for construction and development in La Paz County's unincorporated, non-tribal lands.

    • The county's official fee-schedule page publishes a link to Resolution No. 2026-11, the current Community Development fee schedule.
    • Fees vary by service, permit type, project valuation, plan review, inspections, and other stated conditions.
    • Resolution No. 2025-05 stated an implementation date of August 6, 2025 and included fees for plan review and inspections, including a $60.00 reinspection fee per inspection after an initial failed inspection.
    “Resolution No. 2026-11 ComDev Fee Schedule.pdf”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building permit applications and construction in unincorporated La Paz County

    • Applications must be complete, accurate, and signed by the authorized owner or designated agent.
    • The application must identify and describe the work, locate the property, state intended use and occupancy, include required construction documents, state valuation, be signed, and provide other data required by the code official.
    • Applications are deemed abandoned after 180 days unless pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; extensions may be granted for periods not exceeding 90 days each.
    • A permit is not valid until prescribed fees are paid.
    • A building permit or copy must remain at the work site until project completion.

    application abandonment period: 180 days (unless pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued) · maximum extension period: <= 90 days per extension (extension must be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated)

    “To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing on a form furnished by the Department of Building Safety for that purpose.”

Arizona rules that apply here

  • Well permitRequired

    Drilling a new well, or deepening or modifying an existing well, in La Paz County.

    • A Notice of Intent to Drill must be filed with the Arizona Department of Water Resources before drilling, deepening, or modifying the well.
    • La Paz County Community Development separately charges a $100 Well Approval fee in addition to the ADWR fee.

    La Paz County Well Approval fee: 100 USD (In addition to the Arizona Department of Water Resources fee.)

    “Prior to drilling a new well, or deepening or modifying an existing well, a Notice of Intent to Drill must be filed with Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR).”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    The Arizona Recreational Vehicle Long-Term Rental Space Act applies to a recreational-vehicle space rented in a recreational-vehicle park or mobile-home park by the same tenant for more than 180 consecutive days, and to park-model or park-trailer spaces rented by the same tenant for more than 180 consecutive days.

    • For an ordinary recreational-vehicle space, the space must be rented under a rental agreement.
    • For a park model or park trailer, the chapter applies without regard to whether a rental agreement is executed.
    • The chapter does not apply to mobile homes, manufactured homes or factory-built buildings.
    • The chapter does not apply to a property with one or two recreational-vehicle rental spaces.

    occupancy duration: > 180 consecutive days · same tenant: required · property recreational-vehicle rental spaces: <= 2 spaces (The chapter does not apply to a property with one or two recreational-vehicle rental spaces.)

    “This chapter applies to, regulates and determines rights, obligations and remedies for a recreational vehicle space that is rented in a recreational vehicle park or”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy or use of a mobile home brought into Arizona, or movement of a mobile home from one Arizona mobile-home park to another Arizona mobile-home park.
      “unless it meets the standards adopted pursuant to this chapter and displays the proper state certificate.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Arizona county boards of supervisors adopting zoning for the county area outside incorporated municipalities, including unincorporated land.

    • The statutory definition of county area of jurisdiction is the part of the county outside the corporate limits of any municipality.
    • The zoning ordinance and rezonings and zoning-regulation amendments must be consistent with and conform to the adopted comprehensive plan.
    • The board must consider individual property rights and personal liberties before adopting a zoning ordinance.
    • The statute does not authorize dedications, exactions, fees, or other requirements not otherwise authorized by law.
    • The statute does not authorize regulation or restriction of railroad, mining, metallurgical, grazing, or general agricultural uses on tracts of five or more contiguous commercial acres, subject to the statutory cannabis and marijuana qualification.
    “Pursuant to this article, the board of supervisors may adopt a zoning ordinance in order to conserve and promote the public health, safety, convenience and general welfare.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Arizona county boards of supervisors requiring building permits and adopting building, related, and fire-prevention codes for construction in unincorporated areas, including residential construction.

    • Except in cities and towns with an ordinance relating to building permits, the board of supervisors shall require a permit for construction or additions exceeding $1,000 within its jurisdiction.
    • A county building code under section 11-861 applies to unincorporated areas of the county so zoned, and the board may exempt areas zoned rural or unclassified.
    • Building codes may be adopted by reference only after notice and hearings before the county planning and zoning commission and board of supervisors.
    • Authorized building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical codes must be adopted by a qualifying national code organization or by the largest city in the county; if a city code is adopted, the county must adopt notified changes within 90 days or terminate the adopted city code.
    • A fire-prevention code may be adopted in unincorporated areas where a fire district has not adopted a nationally recognized fire code; it remains effective until a fire district is established and adopts an applicable code.
    • The board may adopt a current wildland-urban interface code using written public-participation procedures.
    • Certain single-family and two-family residential sprinkler requirements are restricted, subject to the statutory exception for codes adopted before December 31, 2009.
    • A county may not deny a building permit based on the proposed capable and authorized utility provider, and may not require a transaction privilege tax or business license as a permit condition.
    • A county may recover reasonable costs associated with reviewing and issuing a building permit.

    building permit construction-cost threshold: > 1000 USD (The requirement does not apply in cities and towns that have an ordinance relating to issuance of building permits.) · city-code change adoption deadline: 90 days (If the county adopts a city code and does not adopt the same notified change within 90 days, it must terminate the adopted city code.) · preexisting sprinkler-code exception date: 2009-12-31 (The statutory sprinkler restriction does not apply to a code or ordinance requiring sprinklers in a residence that was adopted before December 31, 2009.)

    “In any county that has adopted zoning pursuant to this chapter, the board of supervisors may adopt and enforce, for the unincorporated areas of the county so zoned, a building code and other related codes to regulate the quality, type of material and workmanship of all aspects of construction of buildings or structures, except that the board may authorize that areas zoned rural or unclassified may be exempt from the provisions of the code adopted.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and sewer connection requirements for property in La Paz County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in La Paz County

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Water rights & wells in La Paz County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Arizona’s water agency.

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

Small non-irrigation 'exempt' wells (pump capacity 35 gpm or less) are allowed statewide, including inside Active Management Areas and INAs, but must be registered with ADWR; outside any AMA/INA groundwater is essentially rule of capture. Inside an AMA a new subdivision or large use must show an Assured Water Supply.

Limit: exempt well = pump capacity 35 gpm or less (A.R.S. §45-454)

Arizona Dept of Water Resources — Exempt Well ↗
  • Ranegras Plain Active Management Arealocalized of county

    Arizona's 8th AMA (Director's order Jan 9, 2026); ADWR data show withdrawals ~900% over natural recharge; new large/subdivision uses become subject to ADWR authorization; small domestic exempt wells (≤35 gpm) still allowed.

    Arizona Dept of Water Resources — Ranegras Plain AMA ↗
  • Harquahala Irrigation Non-Expansion Arealocalized of county

    Irrigation of new acreage is prohibited; no AMA-style Assured Water Supply requirement; domestic exempt wells (≤35 gpm) still allowed.

    Arizona Dept of Water Resources — Harquahala INA ↗

Prior-appropriation state (first in time, first in right). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Arizona state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in La Paz County, Arizona

Is La Paz County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

La Paz County scores 32/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 2,974 people within a 30-minute drive. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 5.7″ of rain a year, in severe drought 22.8% of years and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

Do you need a building permit in La Paz County, Arizona?

La Paz County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by La Paz County Community Development Department (ADEQ-delegated environmental program). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in La Paz County?

Living in an RV on your own land in La Paz County is limited to specific cases: RV occupancy on lots in La Paz County RA-5, RA-10, RA-20, and RA-40 Rural Agricultural zoning districts. Up to two recreational vehicles per lot may be occupied by the property owner or renter. Vehicles must remain licensed and operative. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in La Paz County, Arizona?

Land in La Paz County runs about $2,604 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in La Paz County?

La Paz County gets about 5.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 22.8% of years. On water rights, La Paz County lies in the Ranegras Plain Active Management Area — Arizona's 8th AMA (Director's order Jan 9, 2026); ADWR data show withdrawals ~900% over natural recharge; new large/subdivision uses become subject to ADWR authorization; small domestic exempt wells (≤35 gpm) still allowed..

How remote is La Paz County?

A representative private-land location has about 2,974 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,061,799 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How La Paz compares in Arizona

Compare side-by-side →See all 15 Arizona counties ranked →