Bolthole Index

Mohave County, Arizona

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Mohave County, Arizona

41Index Score / 100
#10 of 15 in Arizona

Unincorporated Mohave County, Arizona requires building permits for construction unless a specific exemption applies.1 County zoning controls allowable uses, setbacks and building height.23 Mohave County Development Services handles conventional and some alternative septic systems under ADEQ delegation, with construction authorization and inspection required before discharge.456

At a glance

Building permit
Required for most construction in unincorporated Mohave County; only specified minor work is exempt17
Zoning
County zoning applies to unincorporated land; uses, setbacks and height limits depend on the district823
Septic permit
County authorization and a post-installation inspection are required before discharge56
Owner-builder
The county allows owner-builders, subject to Registrar of Contractors limits9
RV living on your land
Incidental stays: 30 days/year, 14 consecutive; longer stays require special approval and approved wastewater disposal10
Tiny house
Appendix Q standards cover dwellings up to 600 sq ft, but zoning permission for a site-built tiny house must be confirmed for the parcel11
Water well permit
ADWR Notice of Intent to Drill required before drilling12
Minimum lot size & setbacks
District-specific -- e.g., 5 acres in the 'A' zone down to 6,000 sq ft in R-113

Who to call

Building permits

Mohave County Building Division

Building permits, inspections, manufactured-home installation permits, and owner-builder applications for unincorporated Mohave County

928-757-0903

700 W. Beale Street, Kingman, AZ 86401

Online permits →

Zoning

Mohave County Planning & Zoning Division

Zoning classification, zoning permits, setbacks, RV/park-model/manufactured-home occupancy rules, and code enforcement for unincorporated Mohave County

928-757-0903

codeenforcement@mohave.gov

700 W. Beale Street, Kingman, AZ 86401

Septic permits

Mohave County Environmental Quality (Septic & Well Permitting)

Septic (on-site wastewater) system permits and environmental-health review for Mohave County, administered under authority delegated by ADEQ

928-757-0903

eqpermits@mohave.gov

700 W. Beale Street, Kingman, AZ 86401

Floodplain permits

Mohave County Flood Control District (Floodplain Administration)

Floodplain Use Permits and floodplain administration for unincorporated Mohave County

928-757-0925

3250 E. Kino Ave., Kingman, AZ 86409

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 Mohave 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 Mohave County, Arizona?

Unincorporated Mohave County requires a building permit for construction unless a specific code or ordinance exemption applies.1 Mohave County uses the 2018 International building-code family and 2017 National Electrical Code, with local amendments.14 A detached, one-story storage shed or similar accessory structure is exempt only up to 300 square feet and without utilities; fences and block walls may be exempt up to 7 feet measured from the lowest adjacent property grade.7 Shipping containers are exempt only for residential storage without utilities, and all other rules and ordinances still apply.7 Every manufactured-home installation separately requires a building permit.15 Mohave County allows owner-builders without a licensed contractor, subject to Registrar of Contractors limits; the state exemption requires owner occupancy rather than a project intended for sale, rent, employees or business visitors.916 Inside Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City and Kingman, city offices handle building permits.171819 Mohave County Development Services retains delegated septic permitting for conventional and some alternative systems; Bullhead City also controls construction/install permits, with ADEQ or applicable county approval required for private systems serving multifamily, commercial or industrial property.420

Who handles building, zoning and septic permits in Mohave County, and how do you reach them?

The Mohave County Building Division issues building permits and inspections; call 928-757-0903 or visit the county offices at 700 W. Beale Street, Kingman, AZ 86401.21 The Planning & Zoning Division handles zoning classification, zoning permits and code enforcement; email codeenforcement@mohave.gov or call 928-757-0903.22 County Development Services processes permits for conventional and some alternative septic systems under authority delegated by ADEQ; email eqpermits@mohave.gov or call 928-757-0903.234 For a Floodplain Use Permit, contact the Flood Control District at 928-757-0925, based at 3250 E. Kino Ave., Kingman, AZ 86409.24

Does Mohave County have zoning?

Mohave County zoning governs unincorporated land under the Board of Supervisors’ jurisdiction; ask Planning & Zoning for the parcel’s mapped district, allowable uses and setbacks.82 Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City and the Town of Colorado City set their own zoning.252627 County Development Services retains delegated septic permitting for conventional and some alternative systems.4 Minimum lot sizes include 5 acres in A and 6,000 square feet in R-1; specific ordinance provisions take precedence.13 Single-family residential lot coverage, including accessory buildings and storage, cannot exceed 60% except as Section 35 provides; open swimming pools are excluded.28

Unincorporated Mohave County allows an attached and a detached accessory residence where single-family dwellings are permitted, plus another detached residence on lots of at least 1 acre.29 Allowed accessory residences have no size limit on residential lots of at least 5 gross acres; smaller lots require an administrative Accessory Residence Permit up to 75% of the primary home’s size, or a Special Use Permit above that, subject to section requirements.29 A second septic/leach system and water supply require at least 26,500 square feet of lot area, potentially more at Environmental Quality or ADEQ’s direction.29

How do septic permits and wells work in Mohave County?

A septic project in Mohave County starts with a Notice of Intent to Discharge; construction cannot begin until the county issues a Construction Authorization, and discharge cannot begin until it issues a separate Discharge Authorization.5 Construction and the request for discharge authorization must be completed within 2 years, and the request must document a passed tank watertightness test; the county then inspects the installation before authorizing discharge.6 County Development Services processes conventional and some alternative systems under authority delegated by ADEQ.4 Composting toilets and vault-and-haul systems are listed alternatives, but limiting site conditions can trigger county processing, site investigation, authorization and inspection rather than creating an exemption from sanitation review.30 Before the site investigation, the sewer provider must complete the Sewer Availability Information Sheet.31 For a well, file an ADWR Notice of Intent before drilling, deepening or modifying it; domestic wells on 5 acres or less also need local environmental-health review first.12 Only 18.7% of Mohave County soils are rated “not very limited” for a conventional drain field; a site evaluation may identify the need for an engineered system, rather than rule out septic.32

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

An RV is not an unrestricted full-time residence on ordinary residential land: occupancy is capped at 30 cumulative days a year and 14 consecutive days unless a special permit and approved wastewater system apply.1033 Permanent RV residence is limited to an R-RV zone, an RV park or an approved part of a manufactured-home park.10 A temporary RV residence may be permitted while a permanent home is under construction, and separate renewable permits are available in A-R or R-E zones.10 Do not assume every tiny home is a park model: Mohave County defines an Appendix Q tiny house as a dwelling of 600 square feet or less excluding lofts, with minimum room dimensions and ceiling heights, but we could not confirm the parcel-level zoning permission for a site-built tiny house; ask Planning & Zoning.11 A park model follows the county's park-model and RV placement rules, including required septic facilities where applicable.34

What are the steps to build a home in Mohave County?

  1. Confirm the parcel's zoning classification with the Planning & Zoning Division because it controls allowed uses, lot size and setbacks.2
  2. Apply through the Building Division's online permitting system; fees vary by project, square footage and sometimes value, and every permit carries a $40 automation fee.3536
  3. Start work within 180 days of issuance and avoid a suspension or abandonment lasting 180 days.36
  4. Have the sewer provider complete the availability form before a septic site investigation, then obtain construction and discharge authorizations as applicable.315
  5. File a Notice of Intent to Drill with ADWR before well work begins.12
  6. Obtain any required county right-of-way and Floodplain Use permits before disturbing the affected land.3738
  7. Schedule building and septic inspections at the applicable phases.396 A manufactured home needs an approved final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy before occupancy, and a structure brought through the Building Amnesty Permit process also needs a Certificate of Occupancy before use.4041 Ask the Building Division about final approval for other projects because we could not confirm a general countywide rule.21

What should you check before buying land in Mohave County, Arizona?

About 54.8% of Mohave County land is at a slope of 15% or less, and 71.8% is federal land; verify the parcel's ownership, legal access and usable building area.4243 In unincorporated Mohave County, work within county-maintained rights-of-way requires a Right-of-Way permit, and changes to land in special flood hazard areas require a Floodplain Use Permit before work begins.3738 Severe drought occurs in about 29.1% of years, making well feasibility and water storage practical due-diligence items.44 A minor land division creating 5 or fewer interests, at least one under 36 acres, without a zoning change requires a Public Works application; the County Surveyor has 30 calendar days for a written determination.45 Mohave County's effective property-tax rate is 0.5%, and the median annual bill is $1,229.4647

Watch-outs

  • In unincorporated Mohave County, incidental RV occupancy requires an RV-allowing district, is limited to 30 days a year and 14 consecutive days, and requires an approved wastewater connection or regular trips to an approved dump station; longer stays require a special permit and approved wastewater disposal.10
  • A manufactured home needs its own installation permit and is barred in R-O and R-O/A zones.15
  • Mohave County's agricultural exemption requires at least 5 contiguous commercial acres, Assessor agricultural classification and a Development Services exemption certificate, with annual review; nonagricultural uses remain regulated.48

Sources

  1. Building Ordinance 2021-03, quoted and re-checked
  2. Planning & Zoning Division | Mohave County, quoted and re-checked
  3. Section 35 Setbacks and Area Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  4. Septic & Well Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  5. Notice of Intent to Discharge On-Site Wastewater Treatment Facility, quoted and re-checked
  6. Notice of Intent to Discharge On-Site Wastewater Treatment Facility, quoted and re-checked
  7. Work Exempt from a Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  8. Planning & Zoning Division | Mohave County, quoted and re-checked
  9. mohave.gov, quoted and re-checked
  10. Section 37.K — Establishment of Recreational Vehicles and Park Model Units, quoted and re-checked
  11. MOHAVE COUNTY ORDINANCE 2021-03 (Rev 02-02-2026), quoted and re-checked
  12. Well Drilling in Arizona, quoted and re-checked
  13. Section 35 Setbacks and Area Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Division | Mohave County, quoted and re-checked
  15. Mohave County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  16. A.R.S. § 32-1121; Persons not required to be licensed, quoted and re-checked
  17. Lake Havasu City: Building Permits | Lake Havasu City (Mohave County), quoted and re-checked
  18. Bullhead City: Bullhead City Code § 15.04.030—Building permit required; fees (Mohave County), quoted and re-checked
  19. Kingman: Article II Building Code (Mohave County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Bullhead City: Bullhead City Code § 13.08.020—Private sewage systems (Mohave County), quoted and re-checked
  21. Mohave County Building Division (mohave.gov)
  22. Mohave County Planning & Zoning Division (mohave.gov)
  23. Mohave County Environmental Quality (Septic & Well Permitting) (mohave.gov)
  24. Mohave County Flood Control District (Floodplain Administration) (mohave.gov)
  25. Lake Havasu City: Lake Havasu City Development Code, § 14.01.05 (Mohave County), quoted and re-checked
  26. Bullhead City: Bullhead City Code § 17.06.270, Temporary buildings, structures and uses (Mohave County), quoted and re-checked
  27. Town of Colorado City: Chapter 152: Zoning Code (Mohave County), quoted and re-checked
  28. Section 35 Setbacks and Area Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  29. Mohave County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  30. Septic & Well Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  31. Sewer Availability Information Sheet, quoted and re-checked
  32. 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
  33. Section 37.K — Establishment of Recreational Vehicles and Park Model Units, quoted and re-checked
  34. Mohave County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  35. mohave.gov, quoted and re-checked
  36. Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  37. Mohave County Public Works Pre-Acknowledgment Right-of-Way Work Form, quoted and re-checked
  38. Permitting, quoted and re-checked
  39. Single Family Dwelling Inspection Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  40. MH Inspection Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  41. Building Ordinance 2021-03, quoted and re-checked
  42. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Federal land share: Bolthole Index county data
  44. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  45. Minor Land Division Regulations - Parcel Plats, quoted and re-checked
  46. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  47. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  48. Mohave County Zoning Ordinance, 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, Mohave County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleMohave CountyYavapai CountyCoconino CountyLa Paz CountyMaricopa CountyYuma CountyNavajo County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Development ServicesCounty Development ServicesCounty Community DevelopmentCounty Community Development Dept.County Env. Services Dept.County Development ServicesCounty Planning & Development Services

County locator

Mohave County in Arizona

41
County map
Mohave County highlighted among the Arizona counties · colored by Index score

How Mohave County scores

Seclusion73100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1697% ev.
Admin Boringness49100% ev.
Durability36100% ev.
Property Autonomy65100% ev.
Carry Cost83100% 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 →

$356kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$1,045Land / acre
9.8"Annual rain
29.1% of yrsSevere drought
59.9 / yr (+25.9)Mid-century 100°F days
54.2 daysMid-century dry spell
0.99" (+6.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.1×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,028Home insurance / yr
1.9% / yrInsurance growth
2.41%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
222People within 30 min
2,785Radius comparison (15 mi)
16.8People / sq mi
71.8%Federal land
54.8%Land at 15% slope or less
18.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
1,156,936 acWorkable land screen
10%Wooded land
9.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
63.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Mohave 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 Mohave County

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

Mohave County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Specified minor building, electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing, and residential reroof or roof-decking work identified by Mohave County as exempt from a building permit; all other rules and ordinances still apply.

    • The page identifies the governing provision as Section R105.2 of the 2018 International Building Code.
    • One-story detached accessory structures used as tool or storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses are exempt only when no larger than 300 square feet and without utilities.
    • Fences and block walls must not exceed 7 feet, measured from the lowest adjacent property grade.
    • Retaining walls must not exceed 4 feet measured from footing bottom to wall top and must not support a surcharge or impound Class I, II, or IIIA liquids.
    • Water tanks must be on grade, no larger than 5,000 gallons, and have a height-to-diameter or width ratio no greater than 2:1.
    • Sidewalks and driveways must be no more than 30 inches above adjacent grade, not over a basement or story, and not part of an accessible route.
    • Swimming pools must be accessory to Group R-3 occupancy, less than 18 inches deep, no wider than 8 feet, no larger than 5,000 gallons, and entirely above ground.
    • Shipping containers are exempt only for residential storage with no utilities.
    • Residential reroofs are exempt only when using the same existing roofing material.
    • Residential structural roof-decking replacement is limited to the greater of 128 square feet or 10 percent of the roof surface.
    • Electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing exemptions are limited to the repairs, maintenance, portable equipment, temporary testing systems, minor part replacements, and other specific items listed on the county page.
    • For concealed defective plumbing requiring removal and replacement, the work is new work and a permit and inspection must be obtained.
    • The page states: ALL OTHER RULES AND ORDINANCES STILL APPLY.

    accessory structure floor area: <= 300 square feet (must be one-story, detached, used for a tool/storage shed, playhouse, or similar use, and have no utilities) · fence or block wall height: <= 7 feet (measured from the lowest adjacent property grade) · retaining wall height: <= 4 feet (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall; surcharge or Class I, II, or IIIA liquid exceptions apply) · water tank capacity: <= 5000 gallons (must be supported directly on grade and height-to-diameter or width ratio must be no greater than 2:1) · swimming pool depth: < 18 inches (must be accessory to Group R-3 occupancy and meet the page's width, capacity, and above-ground requirements) · swimming pool width: <= 8 feet (measured at any point) · swimming pool capacity: <= 5000 gallons (must be installed entirely above ground) · roof decking replacement: 128 square feet or 10% of roof surface, whichever is greater (residential structural roof decking only) · residential reroof material: same existing roofing material (otherwise a permit is required)

    “Permits shall not be required for the following: [...] One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area is not greater than 300 square feet and has no utilities to the structure. [...] Residential reroofs utilizing the same existing roofing material. [...] The replacement of residential structural roof decking (such as plywood or OSB sheathing) with a maximum of 128 square feet or ten percent (10%) of the roof surface, whichever is greater.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction in the unincorporated areas of Mohave County subject to the Mohave County Building Safety Code.
      “Permits shall be required for all construction, unless specifically exempted, as set forth in the "Permit" sections of each of the referenced Codes, and Section 3 "Applicability" of this Ordinance.”
    • Required — Construction regulated by the Mohave County Building Safety Code in the unincorporated areas of Mohave County.
      “The Mohave County Building Safety Code, as adopted herein, shall apply to the unincorporated areas of Mohave County per Resolution 2007-249, adopted May 7, 2007. [...] Permits shall be required for all construction, unless specifically exempted, as set forth in the "Permit" sections of each of the referenced Codes, and Section 3 "Applicability" of this Ordinance.”
    • Limited — Specific work exempt from building-permit requirements under Mohave County's adopted 2018 International Building Code provisions.
      “Exemption 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: [...] One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area is not greater than 300 square feet and has no utilities to the structure.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Owner-builders applying for building permits through Mohave County Development Services.

    • Mohave County states that an owner-builder may build a home without a licensed contractor.
    • The Registrar of Contractors limits how many an individual can build; the county directs applicants to check with the Registrar of Contractors.
    • The county building permit application requires the applicant to identify the applicable Arizona contractor-license exemption.
    “No; you can do owner/builder. The Registrar of Contractors limits how many an individual can build and you would need to check with their office.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction and related building activities within the unincorporated areas of Mohave County.

    • The ordinance adopts the 2018 International Building, Residential, Fire, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fuel Gas, Existing Building, Property Maintenance, Swimming Pool and Spa, and Energy Conservation Codes, plus the 2017 National Electrical Code, with local amendments.
    • The code applies only within unincorporated Mohave County; incorporated cities and towns may have their own adopted building codes.
    • The code does not apply to federal land, except land leased or used for private and/or commercial development.
    • The code does not apply to Indian Tribal Reservation lands.
    • The code does not apply to construction, operation, repair, or maintenance incidental to irrigation and drainage ditches or appurtenances of regularly constituted or reclamation districts; farming, dairying, agriculture, viticulture, horticulture, stock or poultry-raising; or clearing or other work upon land for fire prevention purposes.
    • Uses exempted by Arizona Revised Statutes 11-865 and 11-812 are excluded.
    • Installation of a manufactured home is excluded, except electrical services and all attachments and/or affixtures must comply with the applicable portions of the code.
    • Devices used in manufacturing, processing, or fabrication normally considered involved in industry, and construction, operation, and maintenance of electric, gas, water, or other public utility systems operated by public service corporations under a franchise or certificate of convenience and necessity, are excluded.
    • Building Permit Amnesty applies to structures outside the building overlay constructed before December 31, 2007 without the required zoning permit, subject to the ordinance's eligibility requirements, applicant proof of construction date and ownership, compliance with Addressing, Environmental Health, Flood, and Zoning requirements, applicable fees, and inspections.
    • For Building Permit Amnesty, inspection fees are based on travel time and man hours, with a minimum charge of $65.00; incomplete or non-compliant structures may require multiple special inspections.
    • Building Permit Amnesty structures may not be used or occupied, and occupancy may not be changed, until a Certificate of Occupancy is issued. The Certificate of Occupancy is not approval of a violation or other ordinance noncompliance.
    • Permits are required for all construction unless specifically exempted by the referenced code permit provisions or Section 3 of the ordinance.
    • The ordinance is coordinated with other county regulations, and where differing requirements exist, the most restrictive applies.
    • The ordinance states it becomes effective thirty days from final passage and approval. Structures under construction under valid building or zoning permits obtained before the effective date may proceed under the regulations in force when the permit was issued, provided the permits do not expire by limitation before issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. A ninety-day transition period accepts the 2012 codes and prior amendments; afterward, those codes are no longer accepted.
    • The official county webpage identifies the ordinance as revised 02/02/2026; that revision notation is not treated as an effective date.

    International Building Code edition: 2018 · International Residential Code edition: 2018 · International Fire Code edition: 2018 · International Mechanical Code edition: 2018 · International Plumbing Code edition: 2018 · National Electrical Code edition: 2017 · Building Permit Amnesty construction date: < 2007-12-31 (Structure must be outside the building overlay and otherwise satisfy the ordinance's Amnesty requirements.) · Building Permit Amnesty minimum inspection charge: >= 65 USD (Includes one-half hour travel time and one-half hour inspection time.)

    “ADOPTING THE 2018 BUILDING CODES AND THE 2017 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS FOR THE UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF THE COUNTY”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Permitted single-family residential construction in the unincorporated areas of Mohave County, with inspections at applicable phases of construction.

    • The county inspection outline identifies items requiring inspection at each phase of construction.
    • Final agency approvals include Environmental Health and Flood Control, and the project-specific inspection requirements may vary by construction scope.
    “This outline is not intended as an inspections checklist. The purpose of the outline is to give the general parameters of the items requiring inspections at each phase of construction.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Manufactured homes installed in the unincorporated areas of Mohave County.

    • A final inspection must be scheduled after the manufactured home is completely installed, including required code-compliant exterior stairways and skirting where applicable.
    • The County Building Inspector must approve the final inspection and occupancy before the manufactured home may be occupied.
    • All manufactured homes must be completely installed and inspected within six months of permit issuance; the county states a $100 permit extension fee if required.
    • The owner is responsible for calling for all required inspections.

    installation and inspection deadline: 6 months after permit issuance · permit extension fee: 100 USD (If required)

    “No one may occupy any Manufactured Home prior to the County Building Inspector approving the final inspection and occupancy with the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Structures qualifying for a Mohave County Building Amnesty Permit.
      “No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing occupancy of a structure or portion thereof shall be made until a Certificate of Occupancy is issued.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County planning and zoning regulation administered by Mohave County's Planning and Zoning Division.

    • The division states that its General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and Subdivision Regulations are maintained to comply with Title 11, Chapter 6 of the Arizona Revised Statutes.
    • Allowable property uses depend on the parcel's zoning classification.
    • Structural setbacks depend on the parcel's zoning classification.
    “These Regulations shall govern all land within the boundaries of Mohave County, under the jurisdiction of the Board.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Local zoning and related land-development matters administered by Mohave County's Planning and Zoning Division.

    • The division identifies rezone, special-use permit, home-occupation, subdivision, site-plan, mobile-home and RV-park, agricultural-exemption, and zoning-question matters as within its services.
    • Allowable property uses depend on the parcel's zoning classification.
    • The claim concerns Mohave County-administered zoning; incorporated municipalities may administer separate local regulations.
    “The division develops and maintains a General Plan, a Zoning Ordinance, and Subdivision Regulations to comply with the statutes.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County-administered parcels in Mohave County where allowable uses and setbacks are determined by parcel zoning classification.
      “Setbacks depend on the parcel’s zoning classification. See ‘What is the zoning for a certain parcel?’ above. Allowable property uses are dependent on the parcel’s zoning classification. See ‘What is the zoning for a certain parcel?’ above.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Zoning districts and classifications published for the unincorporated portions of Mohave County.

    • The ordinance states that its regulations govern all land within the boundaries of Mohave County under the jurisdiction of the Board.
    • The ordinance states that the official land-use zoning regulations are for the unincorporated portions of Mohave County.
    • The listed zoning classifications include A, A-D, A-R, R-E, R-1, R-2, R-MH, R-RV, R-M, R-O, R-CL, R-O/A, S-D, PAD, C-1, COR, C-2, C-2H, C-RE, C-MO, M-1, M-2, M-X, R-P, C-P, N-P, and E.
    • Parcel-specific zone classifications and zone boundaries are shown on the Zoning Maps rather than in the written portion of the ordinance.
    • Each Zoning Map and each change to a Zoning Map must be established through public hearings at both the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board levels.
    • Combining zones may be created in any zone if the minimum lot size is not less than the minimum lot size stipulated in Section 35.
    • The current official ordinance states that it contains zoning information in effect on the date listed as revised above, with revisions listed through December 1, 2025.
    • The ordinance states that it is not the Development Services Department's responsibility to update the information contained in the document.

    latest listed revision: December 1, 2025

    “Official Land Use Zoning Regulations for the unincorporated portions of the County of Mohave are herein adopted and established [...] Section 11 ESTABLISHMENT OF ZONES A. Zones. In order to classify and segregate the uses of land and buildings, the following zones are hereby established:”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Tiny houses constructed under IRC Appendix Q in the unincorporated areas of Mohave County.

    • The county defines a tiny house as a dwelling that is 600 square feet or less in floor area excluding lofts.
    • The 65-square-foot minimum applies to each habitable room, excluding lofts, in a tiny house constructed per Appendix Q; it is not stated as a minimum total dwelling floor area.
    • Habitable spaces, hallways, bathrooms, toilet rooms, and kitchens must have a ceiling height of at least 6 feet 4 inches, except loft ceilings may be lower but not below 4 feet.
    • Habitable rooms excluding lofts must be at least 6 feet 6 inches in any horizontal dimension.

    maximum tiny-house floor area excluding lofts: <= 600 square feet · minimum floor area per habitable room excluding lofts: >= 65 square feet (Tiny Houses constructed per IRC Appendix Q) · minimum horizontal dimension of habitable rooms excluding lofts: >= 6 feet 6 inches · minimum ceiling height: >= 6 feet 4 inches (Loft ceilings may be lower but not below 4 feet)

    “The Mohave County Building Safety Code, as adopted herein, shall apply to the unincorporated areas of Mohave County [...] Habitable spaces, hallways, bathrooms, toilet rooms and kitchens shall have a ceiling height of not less than 6 feet 4 inches. [...] Exception: Ceiling heights in lofts are permitted to be less than 6 feet 4 inches but no lower than 4 feet. [...] TINY HOUSE. A dwelling that is 600 square feet or less in floor area excluding lofts. [...] Habitable rooms excluding lofts shall have a floor area of not less than 65 square feet for Tiny Houses constructed per Appendix Q. [...] Habitable rooms excluding lofts shall be not less than 6 feet 6 inches in any horizontal dimension for Tiny Houses constructed per Appendix Q.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots and parcels subject to the Mohave County zoning ordinance in unincorporated Mohave County; the applicable minimum depends on the zoning classification.

    • Specific provisions in other ordinance sections take precedence over the general setbacks and area requirements.
    • S-D, PAD, and R-CL minimum lot areas are to be determined with approval of design.
    • A 10,000-square-foot minimum lot size is allowable in C-2H or C-MO zones when the property is serviced by a public, franchised water supply.
    • A 20,000-square-foot minimum lot size is allowable in A-D zones when the property is serviced by a public, franchised water supply.
    • The ordinance permits a minor lot-size waiver only for minor land divisions in areas zoned for a minimum lot size of one acre or more, limited to the greater of 0.03 acre or one percent below the required minimum, with Environmental Health approval.

    zone minimum lot area schedule: A: 5 acres; A-D: 1 acre; A-R: 1 acre; R-E: 20,000 sq ft; C-RE: 20,000 sq ft; R-O: 6,000 sq ft; R-O/A: 1 acre; R-1: 6,000 sq ft; R-2: 4,000 sq ft per dwelling unit; R-RV: 2,500 sq ft, or 3,200 sq ft for a manufactured home; R-MH: 6,000 sq ft; R-M: 6,000 sq ft; C-1: 6,000 sq ft; COR: 6,000 sq ft; C-2: 6,000 sq ft; C-2H: 1 acre; C-MO: 1 acre; M-1: 1 acre; M-2: 1 acre; M-X: 1 acre; S-D, PAD, R-CL: to be determined

    “ZONE | MINIMUM LOT AREA | MAXIMUM (HEIGHT) | FRONT | SIDE | REAR --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- A | 5 Acre | (35') | 20' | 5' | 25'”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Front, side, rear, and related setbacks for properties subject to the Mohave County zoning ordinance in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • Any specific provisions for setbacks in other ordinance sections take precedence over the general setbacks.
    • Distances between dwellings or between a dwelling and another main structure on a single lot are 20 feet where buildings face front-to-front, rear-to-rear, or front-to-rear; otherwise regular side yards apply.
    • A corner lot's street side that is not the front is a secondary frontage with a minimum 10-foot setback.
    • A 10-foot rear-yard setback is allowed with a mobile or manufactured home.
    • No rear setback applies when the rear property line is adjacent to commercially or manufacturing-zoned property; a 15-foot rear setback applies when adjacent to residentially zoned property or an alley adjacent to residentially zoned property.
    • Buildings from 61 to 100 feet in height, or portions above 60 feet, require 25-foot front, side, and rear setbacks.
    • Zero-lot-line or single-family attached projects may have a 0-foot setback along common walls and a 10-foot side-yard setback not along a common wall.

    general setback schedule: A: front 20 ft, side 5 ft, rear 25 ft; A-D: front 25 ft, side 25 ft, rear 15 ft or 25 ft as footnoted; A-R, R-E, C-RE, R-O, R-O/A, R-1, R-M: front 15 ft, side 5 ft, rear 15 ft; R-2: front 15 ft, side 5 ft, rear 15 ft; R-RV: front 15 ft, side 5 ft, rear 10 ft; R-MH: front 15 ft, side 5 ft, rear 10 ft; C-1, COR, C-2, C-2H, C-MO: front 10 ft, side 0 ft, rear 0 to 15 ft or 20 ft as footnoted; M-1 and M-2: front 10 ft, side 0 ft, rear 20 ft; M-X: front 10 ft, side 0 ft, rear 20 ft; S-D, PAD, R-CL: determined with approval of design

    “Any specific provisions for setbacks in the sections of this Ordinance shall have precedence over the general setbacks herein specified.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Single-family residential uses, including accessory buildings and storage, in any Mohave County residential zone classification.

    • The 60 percent maximum applies except as provided elsewhere in Section 35.
    • An open swimming pool is not included when calculating lot coverage.

    maximum lot coverage: <= 60 percent (An open swimming pool is excluded from the calculation.)

    “Except as provided in this Section, the maximum density of lot coverage for single family residential uses (including accessory buildings and storage), in any residential zone classification, shall not exceed sixty percent (60%).”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Maximum building heights for properties subject to the Mohave County zoning ordinance in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • The maximum height varies by zoning classification.
    • In M-X zones, heights are determined by building and fire code requirements and the general requirements of the zone.
    • For buildings from 61 to 100 feet in height, or portions above 60 feet, front, side, and rear setbacks must be 25 feet or more.
    • The Director may approve a 20 percent height increase when justified by function and design; increases above 20 percent require a Zoning Use Permit approved by the Board of Supervisors after a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission.
    • Within commercial sub-zones of PAD, building height up to 60 feet may be approved.
    • S-D, PAD, and R-CL height requirements are determined with approval of design.

    maximum height schedule: A: 35 ft; A-D: 60 ft, or 100 ft as shown in the ordinance table; A-R: 35 ft; R-E: 35 ft; C-RE: 45 ft; R-O: 35 ft; R-O/A: 35 ft; R-1: 35 ft; R-2: 40 ft; R-RV: 35 ft; R-MH: 35 ft; R-M: 40 ft; C-1: 45 ft; COR: 60 ft; C-2: 60 ft; C-2H: 60 ft; C-MO: 60 ft; M-1: 60 ft; M-2: 120 ft; M-X: determined by building and fire code requirements and general zone requirements; S-D, PAD, R-CL: determined with approval of design feet

    “ZONE | MINIMUM LOT AREA | MAXIMUM (HEIGHT) | FRONT | SIDE | REAR --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- A | 5 Acre | (35') | 20' | 5' | 25'”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Occupancy of recreational vehicles on property governed by the Mohave County Zoning Ordinance, including temporary and permanent residence uses in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • A recreational vehicle temporarily parked and occupied on residentially zoned property must be in a zoning district allowing recreational vehicles; no more than one may be occupied at a time; occupancy may not exceed 30 cumulative days in a calendar year or 14 consecutive days; and the vehicle must be connected to an approved wastewater system or regularly taken to an approved dump station.
    • Occupancy exceeding 14 consecutive days or 30 cumulative days requires an approved wastewater disposal system and a special permit.
    • Permanent RV residence is limited to an R-RV zone, an RV park, or approved portions of a manufactured-home park; it is not permitted as a permanent residence in other zones or circumstances.
    • A temporary RV residence may be permitted for one year in conjunction with construction of a permanent residence or commercial structure, with a building permit for the permanent construction; six-month extensions may be granted for good cause.
    • A temporary RV residence may be permitted for one year, renewable annually, in A-R or R-E zones.
    • Except for specified incidental uses and RV-park uses, a temporary zoning permit is required before locating the RV; permitted temporary or permanent residences must have kitchen and bathroom facilities, an approved wastewater connection, and temporary residences must remain roadworthy.
    • No attached structural additions are allowed except manufacturer-designed additions for park model homes. RVs in Special Flood Hazard Areas must comply with the Mohave County Flood Control Ordinance and additional permitting requirements.
    • The property owner is responsible for renewing a temporary permit.

    incidental occupancy cumulative limit: <= 30 days per calendar year · incidental occupancy single-period limit: <= 14 consecutive days · temporary residence permit term: 1 year (Six-month extensions may be granted for good cause; A-R and R-E permits are renewable annually.)

    “A recreational vehicle may be issued a zoning permit as a single family dwelling (permanent residence) in an R-RV (Single Family Residential/Recreational Vehicle) zone, in RV parks and in portions of manufactured home parks approved for recreational vehicles. Recreational vehicles are not permitted as permanent residences in any other zone or under any other circumstances.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary camping or temporary occupancy in a recreational vehicle on residentially zoned property in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • The zoning district must allow recreational vehicles.
    • Only one RV may be occupied at a time.
    • Without a special permit, occupancy is limited to 30 cumulative days per calendar year and no single period may exceed 14 consecutive days.
    • The RV must be connected to an approved wastewater system or regularly taken to an approved dump station.
    • Longer occupancy requires an approved wastewater disposal system and a special permit.
    • A temporary zoning permit is otherwise required before locating the RV, and temporary residences must have kitchen and bathroom facilities and remain roadworthy.

    maximum incidental camping period: <= 14 consecutive days (Total occupancy may not exceed 30 cumulative days per calendar year without a special permit.) · maximum incidental camping total: <= 30 days per calendar year (Occupancy beyond this limit requires a special permit and approved wastewater disposal.)

    “No more than one (1) recreational vehicle is parked and occupied on the property at any time, the period of time does not exceed a cumulative total of more than thirty (30) days during any calendar year, and no single period of occupancy exceeds fourteen (14) consecutive days.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Park-model units, a tiny-home-like category under the Mohave County Zoning Ordinance, in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • A dependent park model may be permitted as a permanent single-family dwelling in an RV subdivision, R-RV zone, RV park, or manufactured-home park where allowed by park management.
    • Dependent park models may also be permitted as temporary or accessory residences in the manner provided for recreational vehicles, with required on-site facilities including septic.
    • An independent park model unit may be established in the manner provided for a travel trailer, subject to the applicable RV rules and permits.

    minimum RV subdivision lot size: 2500 square feet

    “Dependent park models may also be permitted as a temporary residence or as an accessory residence in the manner provided for a recreational vehicle with required on-site facilities, including septic.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured-home placement and residential occupancy in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • Manufactured homes are allowed as single-family dwellings in zones that permit them, including the R-1 zone, subject to the applicable zoning rules.
    • Manufactured homes are prohibited in the R-O and R-O/A zones, except that RV rules may separately apply to recreational vehicles.
    • A building permit is required for every manufactured-home installation and the application must include the Arizona agency insignia number, installer license number, and HUD number or data-plate number.
    • The unit must generally have been built after June 15, 1976, comply with HUD standards, and have a HUD label or verifiable data plate.
    • State-approved skirting is required within 90 days of installation, except for manufactured homes permitted before April 7, 2016.
    • Manufactured-home parks are allowed in C-RE and R-MH zones and may be allowed by special-use permit in A, A-R, C-2H, and R-M zones; parks require county permits, wastewater approval, and additional dimensional and parking standards.

    manufactured-home construction cutoff: > 1976-06-15 (Certain nonconforming and relocation exceptions are stated in Section 37.H and Section 37.F.) · skirting deadline: 90 days after installation (Homes permitted before 2016-04-07 are exempt from the skirting requirement.)

    “A building permit is required for all manufactured home installations.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory residences on lots or parcels where single-family dwellings are permitted in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • At least one attached and one detached accessory residence are allowed in addition to the primary residence on any lot or parcel where single-family dwellings are permitted.
    • Lots allowing single-family dwellings that are one acre or larger may have one additional detached accessory residence.
    • On residential lots of five gross acres or more, the allowed accessory residences are permitted by right without size limitation.
    • On property under five gross acres, Development Services may issue an Accessory Residence Permit administratively when all section requirements are met and the accessory residence does not exceed 75% of the primary residence.
    • A Special Use Permit is required for an accessory residence on a lot under five gross acres when it exceeds 75% of the primary residence.
    • The accessory residence must comply with base-zone setbacks, including a five-foot side and rear setback, and may require buffers.
    • The residence must have a living room of at least 120 square feet, plus 70 square feet for each occupant over two; a separate closet; specified kitchen facilities if detached; and a separate bathroom.
    • No additional off-street parking is required.
    • The primary residence must be site-built, modular single-family, or manufactured home.
    • The section applies to all zones allowing single-family residences, including special development zones, regardless of prior approvals.
    • A lot requiring a second septic, leach system, and water supply must be at least 26,500 square feet, with additional area potentially required by Mohave County Environmental Quality or ADEQ.

    additional detached accessory residence threshold: >= 1 acre · administrative accessory residence size limit: <= 75 percent of primary residence (Larger accessory residences on lots under five gross acres require a Special Use Permit.) · minimum living room: >= 120 square feet (An additional 70 square feet is required for each occupant over two.) · minimum lot size when second septic/leach/water system is required: >= 26500 square feet (Additional lot area may be required by Mohave County Environmental Quality or ADEQ.)

    “At least one attached Accessory Residence and one detached Accessory Residence in addition to the primary residence are allowed on any lot or parcel where single family dwellings are permitted. Lots that allow single family dwellings and are one (1) acre or larger are allowed one (1) additional detached Accessory Residence.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Accessory residences in zones governed by the Mohave County Zoning Ordinance where single-family dwellings are permitted.
      “At least one attached Accessory Residence and one detached Accessory Residence in addition to the primary residence are allowed”
  • Who permits septicMixed

    On-site septic wastewater systems in Mohave County.

    • Mohave County Development Services administers the environmental program under authority delegated by ADEQ.
    • The program covers conventional and some alternative on-site septic wastewater systems.
    “Development Services offers application processing and permitting for conventional and some alternative 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 monitoring transfers of septic systems to new property owners. [...] The authority for the environmental programs is delegated to Development Services by ADEQ.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction and operation of septic tanks and disposal fields in Mohave County.

    • A Notice of Intent to Discharge and required application materials must be submitted.
    • Payment is due at application and is nonrefundable.
    • A Construction Authorization must be issued before construction may begin.
    • A Discharge Authorization must be issued before discharge may begin.
    • Permits are not transferable.
    “Submit Notice of Intent to Discharge (NOI) to obtain authorization to construct and operate a septic tank and disposal field under a Type 4.02-4.22 General Aquifer Protection Permit in accordance with Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R18-9-Article 3. [...] Construction of the facility CANNOT take place until the Construction Authorization is issued. 2. Discharge CANNOT take place until the Discharge Authorization is issued.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Newly installed on-site wastewater facilities requiring discharge authorization in Mohave County.

    • Construction must be completed and a Request for Discharge Authorization submitted within two years.
    • The request must include certification that the septic tank passed the post-installation watertightness test.
    • A final as-built plot plan is required if the project differs from the proposed plan.
    • An additional Certificate of Completion or ECC is required for alternative systems.
    • Discharge Authorization is issued only if the facility complies with the approved plan, applicable state laws, and local regulations.

    construction completion and RDA deadline: 2 years

    “Construction MUST be completed, and a Request for Discharge Authorization (RDA) must be submitted within 2 years to request an inspection of the facility. [...] When the above documents are received, an inspector will inspect the facility. If the facility was constructed according to the approved plan in compliance with all applicable State laws and local regulations, a Discharge Authorization (DA) will be issued.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Alternative on-site sanitation systems, including composting toilets and vault-and-haul systems, in Mohave County.

    • Alternative systems require county application processing, permitting, site investigation, construction authorization, inspection, and discharge authorization as applicable.
    • A limiting condition such as a high water table, high percentage of rock, or excessively fast-draining soils may support use of an alternative system.
    • The county fee schedule separately lists composting toilets and vault-and-haul systems.
    “An alternative system is used when there are limiting conditions found on your property during the site investigation. The limiting condition could be a high water table, high percentage of rock, or soils that drain too fast. [...] 4.03 Composting Toilet $518 4.14 Vault and Haul System $518”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Properties applying for an on-site wastewater system in Mohave County where sanitary sewer availability must be verified.

    • The sewer provider must complete the Sewer Availability Information Sheet before the site investigation and the sheet must accompany the application.
    • If sewer is available, the form provides for connection to sewer.
    • If the sewer connection exceeds the fees referenced in A.A.C. R18-9-A309(A)(5)(b), an engineer or contractor estimate is required.
    • If there is no sewer provider in the subdivision, the form identifies the property as N/A.
    • In North Kingman, New Kingman Addition, and Butler, using on-site wastewater where the property is more than 100 feet but less than 500 feet from City of Kingman sewer may result in denial of water service if no existing water meter exists when the septic permit is issued.
    • A temporary individual wastewater system requires later connection to the municipal sewer system when servicing the location, subject to A.A.C. R18-9-A309.A.5.

    North Kingman/New Kingman Addition/Butler sewer distance condition: greater than 100 ft and less than 500 ft (City of Kingman sewer and no existing water meter at septic permit issuance)

    “Per an inquiry with the above-referenced service provider regarding the availability of sanitary sewer to serve the above-referenced location, sewer is available at property: Yes, sewer is available and will be connected to No, sewer connection exceeds fees of R18-9-A309(A)(5)(b) (Engineers/Contractor’s Estimate req.) N/A, no sewer service provider in subdivision”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural or grazing land and qualifying agricultural structures subject to the Mohave County Zoning Ordinance and Building Codes.

    • The tract must be five or more contiguous commercial acres; one commercial acre equals 35,000 square feet.
    • The property must be classified as agriculture by the Mohave County Assessor and certified by the Development Services Director as used for grazing or general agricultural purposes.
    • The property is exempt only when Development Services issues a certificate of exemption.
    • The applicant must submit an application, an Assessor certificate showing the code classification, and a plot plan showing dimensions and percentages of land designated agricultural or grazing, with supporting documentation.
    • The exemption applies only to areas classified as agricultural or grazing; other uses remain subject to the Zoning Ordinance and Building Codes.
    • Buildings and structures not used for agricultural or grazing purposes remain subject to the Zoning Ordinance and Building Codes.
    • Habitable structures remain subject to those requirements unless occupied solely by persons engaged in agricultural or grazing purposes.
    • Agricultural exemptions are reviewed annually by Development Services.
    • A $250 fee is required for processing an agricultural exemption request; the fee takes effect upon completion of the legal requirements to assess new fees and is evaluated annually by the Board of Supervisors.
    • If the Assessor or Development Services Director revokes the qualifying classification, the property is no longer exempt.

    minimum contiguous commercial acreage: >= 5 commercial acres (One commercial acre equals 35,000 square feet.) · agricultural exemption processing fee: 250 USD (Effective upon completion of all legal requirements to assess new fees; evaluated annually by the Board of Supervisors.)

    “Only properties of five (5) contiguous commercial acres or larger, classified as agriculture by the Mohave County Assessor, and certified by the Development Services Director as land used for grazing or general agricultural purposes are eligible for an agricultural exemption.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Division of land in Mohave County for sale or lease, including subdivisions and minor land divisions.

    • A subdivision is generally land divided or proposed to be divided for sale or lease into six or more lots, parcels, or fractional interests.
    • The definition excludes divisions into lots or parcels each 36 acres or more, leasehold offerings of one year or less, and certain agricultural, commercial, residential rental, and cemetery situations stated in the county definition.
    • For five or fewer lots, parcels, or fractional interests, where one or more is less than 36 acres and no zoning change is involved, an application for a minor land division must be submitted to the Public Works Department with a parcel plat and processing fee.
    • The County Surveyor reviews the submission and makes a written determination within 30 days.
    • The Director may withhold approval for a resulting subdivision, noncompliance with minimum county zoning requirements, or lack of legal access unless deficiencies are noticed on the deeds.
    • A minor land division may qualify for a lot-size waiver only in areas zoned for at least one acre, limited to the greater of 0.03 acre or one percent below the required minimum, with Environmental Health approval.

    subdivision threshold: >= 6 lots, parcels, or fractional interests (The county definition includes stated exclusions, including certain 36-acre-or-more divisions and one-year-or-less leasehold offerings.) · minor land division threshold: <= 5 lots, parcels, or fractional interests (At least one resulting lot, parcel, or fractional interest must be less than 36 acres for the cited process.) · review period: 30 calendar days (The County Surveyor makes a written determination; if verification is not completed within 30 calendar days, the land division is deemed approved under the regulation.)

    “Any person dividing land in Mohave County into five (5) or fewer lots, parcels, or fractional interests, any one or more of which are less than thirty-six (36) acres and that does not involve or require a change in zoning, shall submit an application for a minor land division to the Public Works Department.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway construction or modification affecting a County-maintained right-of-way in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • A Right-of-Way permit is required for work within County-maintained right-of-way.
    • Public Works must inspect and approve associated work before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued.
    • Failure to obtain the permit may result in delays, penalties, or removal of unauthorized improvements.
    “Right-of-Way (ROW) permit is required for any work within County-maintained right-of-way, and that a Certificate of Occupancy (COO) will not be issued until a ROW permit has been obtained and all associated work has been inspected and approved by Public Works.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Changes to land and development within special flood hazard areas in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • A Floodplain Use Permit is required before changes to land begin, including new construction, additions, grading, and solid walls or fencing.
    • An Elevation Certificate is required for new buildings and substantial improvements in all identified Special Flood Hazard Areas.
    • The Flood Control District reviews permit applications through the One Stop permitting process.
    • The ordinance applies in addition to other applicable laws.

    substantial improvement threshold: >= 50 percent of structure market value (improvements made within a five-year period are cumulatively counted)

    “A Floodplain Use Permit (FUP) is required for any changes to land in a special flood hazard area, including but not limited to, new construction, additions, grading, or installation of solid walls or fencing.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    County Development Services building permit fees for projects in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • Fees vary depending on the project, square footage, and sometimes value.
    • The published building fee schedule includes valuation-based permit fees, plan review fees, and a $40 automation fee on all permits.
    • Credit-card payments incur transaction fees.

    fee basis: project, square footage, and sometimes value · automation fee: 40 USD (charged on all permits)

    “Permit fees vary depending on the project, square footage and sometimes value. You would need to contact our office for quotes.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County building permit applications and inspections in unincorporated Mohave County.

    • Applications may be submitted through the county online permitting system.
    • Inspections may be scheduled through the county permitting page.
    • Owner-builders may build their own homes, subject to Arizona Registrar of Contractors limits.
    • Permits generally become invalid unless work begins within 180 days after issuance or is not suspended or abandoned for 180 days; extensions must be requested before the applicable deadline.

    permit commencement deadline: 180 days (unless work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after commencement) · inspection scheduling: available through county permitting page

    “MOHAVE COUNTY'S PERMITTING SYSTEM Visit Site SCHEDULE AN INSPECTION Schedule Here Online Permitting Resources & Guides Online Portal Log In And Inspection Steps”

Arizona rules that apply here

  • Well permitRequired

    New wells and the deepening, replacement, or modification of existing water-producing wells in Mohave County, subject to Arizona well-type and Active Management Area distinctions.

    • A Notice of Intent to Drill must be filed with ADWR before drilling a new well or deepening or modifying an existing well.
    • The filing must include the applicable fee.
    • Authority is valid for one year; after that, a new Notice of Intent is required.
    • A licensed well-drilling contractor must perform the work.
    • Form DWR 55-40 applies outside Active Management Areas to wells that will pump water and to exempt wells inside Active Management Areas; a different form applies to non-exempt wells inside an Active Management Area.
    • For domestic use on a parcel of five acres or less, county environmental health or another applicable local health authority must review the NOI before filing with ADWR.
    • Drilling may not begin until ADWR issues a drill card.

    domestic parcel review threshold: <= 5 acres or less

    “Form DWR 55-40 must be filed prior to drilling, deepening, replacing or modifying any well located outside of an Active Management Area (AMA) that will pump water, and prior to drilling, deepening, replacing or modifying an exempt well inside of an AMA. [...] After the form is filed, the proposed action may not begin until ADWR issues a drill card to the well driller.”
  • 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.

  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental land-use permission or prohibition in Mohave 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 Mohave County

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

Managed area

Groundwater is actively managed here, but a small household well is generally still available.

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 ↗
  • Hualapai Valley Irrigation Non-Expansion Arealocalized of county

    Newest INA (designated Dec 2022); irrigation of new acreage prohibited; no AMA-style Assured Water Supply requirement; domestic exempt wells (≤35 gpm) still allowed.

    Arizona Dept of Water Resources — Hualapai INA FAQ ↗

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 Mohave County, Arizona

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

Mohave County scores 41/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 222 people within a 30-minute drive. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 9.8″ of rain a year, in severe drought 29.1% of years and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

Do you need a building permit in Mohave County, Arizona?

Mohave County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Mohave County Development Services, Environmental Quality. 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 Mohave County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Mohave County is limited to specific cases: Occupancy of recreational vehicles on property governed by the Mohave County Zoning Ordinance, including temporary and permanent residence uses in unincorporated Mohave County. A recreational vehicle temporarily parked and occupied on residentially zoned property must be in a zoning district allowing recreational vehicles; no more than one may be occupied at a time; occupancy may not exceed 30 cumulative days in a calendar year or 14 consecutive days; and the vehicle must be connected to an approved wastewater system or regularly taken to an approved dump station. Occupancy exceeding 14 consecutive days or 30 cumulative days requires an approved wastewater disposal system and a special permit. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Mohave County, Arizona?

Land in Mohave County runs about $1,045 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Mohave County?

Mohave County gets about 9.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 29.1% of years. On water rights, Mohave County lies in the Hualapai Valley Irrigation Non-Expansion Area — Newest INA (designated Dec 2022); irrigation of new acreage prohibited; no AMA-style Assured Water Supply requirement; domestic exempt wells (≤35 gpm) still allowed..

How remote is Mohave County?

A typical private-land location has about 2,785 people within 15 miles and 3,064,182 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Mohave compares in Arizona

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