Bolthole Index

Navajo County, Arizona

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

54Index Score / 100
#3 of 15 in Arizona

Unincorporated Navajo County, Arizona requires building permits for regulated construction, including structures over 200 square feet or with utilities or sleeping quarters; specified small accessory structures and minor work are exempt12. Planning & Development Services administers county zoning and delegated septic permits34. County zoning excludes incorporated towns and reservation land outside county authority5.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for regulated construction; small accessory structures and specified minor work can be exempt12
Zoning
County zoning applies only in unincorporated areas; municipal rules may apply in towns and cities6
Septic permits
Planning & Development Services, delegated by Arizona DEQ7
Owner-builder
State licensing exemption for an owner-occupied project; permits and inspections still apply89
RV on your land
Seasonal or temporary permit only; permanent power required, generators prohibited10
Guest houses
One attached plus one or two detached where single-family dwellings are allowed, depending on lot size11
Wells
Notice of Intent to Drill required; county must endorse it for a domestic well on 5 acres or fewer12

Who to call

Building permits

Navajo County Planning & Development Services

Building, manufactured-home, and septic (onsite wastewater) permits, inspections, and zoning administration for unincorporated Navajo County

928-532-6040

1100 E. Thornton Rd., Show Low, AZ 85901

Online permits →

Roads & driveways

Navajo County Public Works

Right-of-way and driveway/culvert access permits for county-maintained roads in unincorporated Navajo County

1100 E Thornton Road, Show Low, AZ 85901

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 Navajo 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 Navajo County, Arizona?

Unincorporated Navajo County requires a building permit before regulated construction, alterations, occupancy changes, or electrical, gas, mechanical and plumbing work; structures over 200 square feet or with utilities or sleeping quarters require a permit1. A one-story detached accessory structure at or under 200 square feet can be exempt if it meets setback and fire-separation requirements; interior remodeling costing no more than $1,000 in labor and materials is also listed as exempt2. Navajo County uses amended versions of the 2018 International Residential Code and International Building Code13. Arizona's owner-builder licensing exemption applies to work solely for the owner's occupancy, without public business use or an intent to sell or rent; building permits and inspections still apply8. Offering the home for sale or rent within one year after completion or a Certificate of Occupancy is prima facie evidence of a sale-or-rent purpose8.

Who issues building permits in Navajo County, and how do you reach the office?

Navajo County Planning & Development Services handles building, manufactured-home and delegated septic permits for unincorporated land14154. Call 928-532-6040 or visit 1100 E. Thornton Rd., Show Low, Monday through Thursday, 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.16. Plan review costs 35% of the building-permit fee, which varies by valuation and formula17. Inspections occur at every construction phase, generally with 24 hours' notice; property lines and setbacks must be marked for footing, foundation and septic inspections18.

Snowflake19, Holbrook20, Taylor21, Pinetop-Lakeside22 issue their own building permits. Show Low requires a city building permit plus a state installation permit for manufactured homes and factory-built buildings23. Delegated septic permits remain with county Planning & Development Services; Snowflake requires the county sanitary permit when town sewer is unavailable424.

Does Navajo County have zoning?

Navajo County zoning applies to unincorporated land, excluding reservation land outside county authority5. Winslow25, Snowflake26, Holbrook27, Taylor28, Pinetop-Lakeside29 administer their own zoning; delegated septic permits remain with county Planning & Development Services4.

A-General generally requires 1 acre, with smaller parcels possible through the specified soils evaluation or approved sewer access; RU-20, RU-10, RU-5 and RU-1 require 20, 10, 5 and 1 acre respectively3031. R1-43 and R1-10 require 43,000 and 10,000 square feet respectively32. R-2 and R-3 require 6,000-square-foot parcels, with 2,000 and 1,000 square feet of lot area per dwelling unit respectively33. C-R requires 6,000 square feet per parcel and 1,000 per dwelling unit; these are land-area standards, not dwelling floor areas34. District maps and district-specific setbacks control the parcel3536. Qualifying agricultural uses on at least 5 contiguous acres in C-R, Ind-1 and Ind-2 can receive a zoning exemption, which does not remove building, septic, floodplain or health requirements37.

How do septic and well permits work in Navajo County?

Septic systems within Navajo County's delegated authority go through Planning & Development Services, which acts under a delegation agreement with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality for systems under 3,000 gallons a day74. You apply with a Notice of Intent to Construct, and once approved you have two years to build; after construction, inspection, and testing, you file a Notice of Intent to Discharge and need a Discharge Authorization before use38. Only about 22.1% of Navajo County's soils lack a severe USDA limitation for a conventional drain field, so the site evaluation can materially shape the system design39. Arizona requires a septic inspection within six months before a property transfer and a buyer's Notice of Transfer within 15 calendar days after closing40. Composting toilets and other listed alternatives still require county review and construction and discharge authorization41. For a well, file a Notice of Intent to Drill with the Arizona Department of Water Resources; domestic wells on parcels of 5 acres or fewer also need county or local-health-authority endorsement12.

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

Outside approved RV parks, unincorporated Navajo County allows a single RV temporarily in A-General, RU, R1 and qualifying Special Development districts; permanent placement and rental use are prohibited10. Seasonal RV Permits allow placement once per calendar year for up to 120 days, with a good-cause renewal provision; Temporary RV Permits allow up to one year, renewable for good cause42. RVs need permanent power, approved sewage disposal and zoning setbacks plus 10 feet from property lines; generators are prohibited42. Stored RVs cannot be used for living, sleeping or housekeeping unless another zoning provision allows it; storage is not an occupancy authorization43. Primitive camping on vacant property is a code violation44.

Manufactured homes are allowed dwelling types in A-General and Rural districts, but placement requires a manufactured/mobile-home permit and a stored home cannot be occupied4515. We could not confirm a general tiny-home classification; ask Planning & Development Services whether the proposed unit is a site-built dwelling, factory-built building, manufactured home, park model or RV16.

Can you build a guest house or park-model ADU in Navajo County?

Where single-family dwellings are allowed in unincorporated Navajo County, lots under 1 acre may have one attached and one detached guest house; lots of at least 1 acre may have one attached and two detached11. Guest houses need at least 5 feet of rear and side setback, with front setbacks following the primary dwelling's district11. Detached applications require site and preliminary building plans; attached units need no separate guest-house permit, but applicable building, environmental and engineering permits remain11. A-General separately lists an Administrative Permit, so ask Planning & Development Services which approvals apply46.

RVs and travel trailers cannot serve as guest houses; park models require a permanent or semi-permanent foundation11. Arizona also allows qualifying 320–400-square-foot park-model ADUs for single-family residences where zoning specifies one dwelling per three acres or greater, subject to foundation, utility, drainage, wastewater and other zoning requirements; special restrictions apply in high-noise or accident-potential zones47. Arizona bars county prohibitions on short-term rentals but allows specified health, safety and licensing regulation; we could not confirm Navajo County's local rental application requirements, so ask Planning & Development Services4816.

What are the steps to build a home in Navajo County, Arizona?

  1. Ask Planning & Development Services to confirm county jurisdiction, district, allowed dwelling type and setbacks16535.
  2. Resolve county-road driveway or culvert access with Public Works and obtain a floodplain Development Permit before work in a mapped hazard area495051.
  3. Obtain septic construction approval and file a well Notice of Intent with Arizona Water Resources if needed; domestic wells on 5 acres or fewer need local endorsement3812.
  4. Submit construction documents and the building-permit application, then schedule required inspections918.
  5. Obtain septic Discharge Authorization before using the system38.

What should you check before buying land in Navajo County?

Navajo County receives about 10.8 inches of rain annually and has experienced severe drought in about 41% of years, making a verified water source a priority before buying5253. Navajo County's effective property tax rate is about 0.6%, with a median annual bill around $1,126; those figures do not establish a particular parcel's tax bill5455. In A-General, a subdivision requires rezoning before approval56. Confirm jurisdiction, district and land-division history with Planning & Development Services before committing to a parcel16535.

Watch-outs

  • Navajo County zoning excludes incorporated towns and reservation land outside county authority; confirm parcel jurisdiction with Planning & Development Services before relying on county standards516.
  • Primitive camping on vacant property is a code violation, and an RV cannot be used permanently; use the applicable seasonal or temporary permit instead445758.
  • Mobile homes at least 20 years old at application generally cannot be placed in unincorporated Navajo County after March 1, 2024; lawful-existing and HUD-rehabilitation exceptions apply, but relocation can end the existing-location exception59. Relocating a home lawfully present on that date within the unincorporated county requires rehabilitation verification and relevant Building Division permits before a Certificate of Occupancy60.
  • We could not confirm a specific tiny-home occupancy rule or a minimum dwelling floor area in Navajo County's zoning ordinance; ask Planning & Development Services directly before you plan around either3.

Sources

  1. Navajo County Questions & Answers Packet, quoted and re-checked
  2. Navajo County Questions & Answers Packet, quoted and re-checked
  3. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance (2026 county census)
  4. Construction Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  5. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  6. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  7. Construction Permit Application (2026 county census)
  8. A.R.S. § 32-1121, Persons not required to be licensed; penalties; applicability, quoted and re-checked
  9. Navajo County Building Information FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  10. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. navajocountyaz.gov, quoted and re-checked
  12. Well Drilling in Arizona, quoted and re-checked
  13. Resolution 9-2022: Navajo County Building Code Adoption, quoted and re-checked
  14. Navajo County Planning & Development Services - Building FAQ (2026 county census)
  15. Article 19 - General Provisions, quoted and re-checked
  16. Navajo County Planning & Development Services (navajocountyaz.gov)
  17. Planning and Development Fees, quoted and re-checked
  18. Construction Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  19. Town of Snowflake: 9-1-2: Building Permit (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Holbrook: Permit Required (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  21. Town of Taylor: official source (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Town of Pinetop-Lakeside: Chapter 15.04 Building Code (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  23. Show Low: City Permits & Applications (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  24. Town of Snowflake: Building Permit Requirements (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  25. Winslow: City of Winslow, AZ Municipal Code Table of Contents (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  26. Town of Snowflake: official source (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  27. Holbrook: Holbrook City Code § 6-1-5, R-7, R-10 and R-14 Single Family Residential Zone (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  28. Town of Taylor: Planning & Zoning (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  29. Town of Pinetop-Lakeside: Chapter 17.08 General Provisions (Navajo County), quoted and re-checked
  30. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  31. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  32. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  33. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  34. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  35. Article 2 – Zoning Districts, quoted and re-checked
  36. Article 3 - A-General Zoning District, quoted and re-checked
  37. Article 25 - General Provisions, quoted and re-checked
  38. Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Type 4.02–4.23 General Permit, quoted and re-checked
  39. 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
  40. Notice of Transfer and Inspection, quoted and re-checked
  41. Construction Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  42. Article 15 - Recreational Vehicle Placement (RV), quoted and re-checked
  43. Article 19 - General Provisions, quoted and re-checked
  44. navajocountyaz.gov, quoted and re-checked
  45. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  46. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  47. A.R.S. § 11-820.03 – Accessory dwelling unit; park model trailer; definitions, quoted and re-checked
  48. azleg.gov, quoted and re-checked
  49. Navajo County Public Works (navajocountyaz.gov)
  50. Right-of-Way, quoted and re-checked
  51. Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  52. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  53. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  54. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  55. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  56. Subdivision Regulations and Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  57. Article 15 – Recreational Vehicle Placement (RV), quoted and re-checked
  58. Article 15 – Recreational Vehicle Placement (RV), quoted and re-checked
  59. Navajo County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  60. Navajo 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, Navajo County has countywide zoning.

RuleNavajo CountyApache CountyCoconino CountyGila CountyYavapai CountyGreenlee CountyGraham County
Building permitRequiredLimitedRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Planning & Development ServicesCounty Public Health Env. Div.County Community DevelopmentCounty Community Development Div.County Development ServicesCounty Health Dept.County Dept. of Health & Human Services

County locator

Navajo County in Arizona

54
County map
Navajo County highlighted among the Arizona counties · colored by Index score

How Navajo County scores

Seclusion81100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency25100% ev.
Admin Boringness48100% ev.
Durability47100% ev.
Property Autonomy65100% ev.
Carry Cost80100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$402kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$325Land / acre
10.8"Annual rain
41% of yrsSevere drought
9.1 / yr (+7.8)Mid-century 100°F days
42 daysMid-century dry spell
0.83" (+5.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.17×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,251Home insurance / yr
3.5% / yrInsurance growth
1.78%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
6,523Radius comparison (15 mi)
11People / sq mi
9.5%Federal land
73.1%Land at 15% slope or less
22.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
1,052,323 acWorkable land screen
16.1%Wooded land
12.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
52.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Navajo 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 Navajo County

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

Navajo County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Specified exempt work in unincorporated Navajo County.

    • One-story detached accessory structures must not exceed 200 square feet and must meet property-line, septic-system, and other-building setbacks and fire separations.
    • Deck exemptions require no more than 200 square feet, no more than 30 inches above grade, no attachment to a dwelling, no service to the required exit door, 10 feet of separation from septic components, and compliance with zoning and property-line setbacks.
    • Interior remodeling is exempt only when materials and labor do not exceed $1,000.
    • The packet directs applicants to consult the building official for gas, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and emergency repairs.

    detached accessory structure area: <= 200 sq ft (Must satisfy the stated setbacks and fire separations.) · deck area: <= 200 sq ft (Additional height, attachment, exit-door, septic, zoning, and property-line conditions apply.) · interior remodeling materials and labor: <= 1000 USD (The exemption is for remodeling not exceeding this amount.)

    “One story detached(a) accessory structures, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet, provided it meets all setbacks from property lines, septic system and other buildings, and achieves fire separations.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, movement, conversion, enlargement, occupancy changes, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work in unincorporated Navajo County.
      “Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, alter, repair, move, convert, enlarge or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or erect, install, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code. or if the structure is greater than 200 square feet, has any utilities or sleeping quarters, shall first make application and obtain the required permit.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Building one's own house in Navajo County.

    • All federal, state, and local building codes and requirements must be followed.
    • Routine inspections must be conducted.
    • Construction documents are required when applying for the building permit.
    • Subcontractors are preferred for specialty work such as concrete, electrical, and plumbing.
    “Yes. You are allowed to build your own house given that all federal, state, and local building codes and requirements are followed and routine inspections are conducted. A set of construction documents is required once you apply for the building permit. Subcontractors are preferred for specialty work such as concrete, electrical, plumbing, etc.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction in the unincorporated portions of Navajo County.

    • Navajo County amended its addenda and additions to the 2018 IBC and IRC.
    • The approved document is used in conjunction with construction in the unincorporated portions of Navajo County.
    • The resolution states an effective date of June 22, 2022.

    adopted residential code: 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) · adopted building code: 2018 International Building Code (IBC) · effective date: 2022-06-22

    “NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Supervisors that the amendments to Navajo County Addenda and Additions to the 2018 International Building Code and the 2018 International Residential Code are APPROVED and the attached document shall be used in conjunction with construction in the unincorporated portions of Navajo County with an effective date of June 22, 2022.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction covered by a Navajo County construction permit in unincorporated Navajo County.

    • Inspections are required for all listed construction phases, including footings, foundations, under-floor, rough frame, shear wall, roof sheathing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, meter-loop, gas line, septic systems, and signs.
    • Footing, foundation, and septic inspections require property lines and required yard setbacks to be clearly marked.
    • Inspections can generally be scheduled with 24-hour notice, Monday through Friday.
    • After a building is totally enclosed, someone must be on the premises for further inspections.
    • All utilities must be on and working for the final inspection.

    general inspection notice: 24 hours (The county says inspections can generally be scheduled within this notice period, Monday through Friday.)

    “Inspections are required for all phases of construction; footings, foundations, under- floor, rough frame, shear wall, roof sheathing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, meter-loop, gas line, septic systems, and signs.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Relocation within unincorporated Navajo County of a mobile home lawfully located there as of March 1, 2024.

    • The owner must obtain rehabilitation verification and any relevant permits from the Navajo County Building Division before issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The ordinance states that the rule applies when the mobile home is thereafter relocated to another location within the unincorporated area.
    • The ordinance’s exception for a mobile home certified as rehabilitated to HUD standards by the State Office of Manufactured Housing or its designee applies to the age-based placement prohibition.

    ordinance date: 2024-03-01

    “If a Mobile Home lawfully located in the unincorporated area of Navajo County as of March 1, 2024, is thereafter to be relocated to another location within the unincorporated area of Navajo County, the owner shall obtain rehabilitation verification and any relevant permits from the Navajo County Building Division prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy (COO).”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning regulation in the unincorporated areas of Navajo County, Arizona.

    • The ordinance does not apply to land within the boundary of a reservation and outside Navajo County authority.
    • The ordinance excludes areas within incorporated towns and cities.
    • The ordinance establishes zoning districts and development standards, including setbacks, lot coverage, yards, and open spaces.
    “The Navajo County Zoning Ordinance is an enactment for the unincorporated areas of Navajo County, Arizona, except land within the boundary of a reservation and outside the authority of Navajo County, including those areas within incorporated towns and cities. This Ordinance divides the unincorporated areas of Navajo County into Zoning Districts appropriate for various classes of residential, commercial, and industrial uses.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Navajo County, including county zoning in unincorporated areas and separate zoning authority in incorporated towns and cities.

    • Navajo County zoning applies to unincorporated areas.
    • The county ordinance expressly excludes incorporated towns and cities, where municipal zoning rules may apply instead.
    • The county ordinance also excludes reservation land outside Navajo County authority.
    “If your property is within the yellow overlay, you are within the nearest municipal boundary, if not - you are within the unincorporated area of Navajo County.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Published Navajo County zoning districts for unincorporated land.

    • The ordinance classifies unincorporated Navajo County into A-General, RU-20, RU-10, RU-5, RU-1, R1-43, R1-10, R-2, R-3, C-R, IND-1, IND-2, and SD districts.
    • Zoning district boundaries are shown on official zoning district maps incorporated into the ordinance.
    • Lands not previously zoned by another jurisdiction are subject to the A-General district until zoning hearings are held.
    • Lands previously zoned by another jurisdiction retain that zoning until the county holds hearings to zone them under the ordinance.

    RU-20 minimum area per dwelling unit: 20 acres · RU-10 minimum area per dwelling unit: 10 acres · RU-5 minimum area per dwelling unit: 5 acres · RU-1 minimum area per dwelling unit: 1 acre · R1-43 area per dwelling unit: 43000 square feet · R1-10 area per dwelling unit: 10000 square feet

    “For the purpose of this Ordinance, the unincorporated area of Navajo County is hereby classified into the following zoning districts.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    R-2 and R-3 Multi-Family Zoning Districts in unincorporated Navajo County.

    • The ordinance also specifies lot area per dwelling unit of 2,000 square feet in R-2 and 1,000 square feet in R-3.
    • The ordinance excludes reservation land outside Navajo County authority and incorporated towns and cities.

    R-2 minimum parcel size: 6000 square feet · R-3 minimum parcel size: 6000 square feet · R-2 lot area per dwelling unit: 2000 square feet · R-3 lot area per dwelling unit: 1000 square feet

    “R-2 R-3 Minimum Parcel Size (Square Feet) 6,000 6,000 Minimum Parcel Width (Feet) 60 60 Lot Area Per Dwelling Unit (Square Feet) 2,000 1,000”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — A-General Zoning District in the unincorporated areas governed by the Navajo County Zoning Ordinance.
      “Minimum Parcel Size (Acres) 1* [...] *Parcels below one (1) acre in size will be allowed if the parcel has a certified percolation or soils evaluation rate of one-hundred and twenty minutes per inch (120 min/in) or if the parcel has access to an approved sewer system.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — RU-20, RU-10, RU-5, and RU-1 Rural Zoning Districts in unincorporated Navajo County.
      “RU-20 RU-10 RU-5 RU-1 Minimum Parcel Size (Acres) 20 10 5 1”
    • District specific (with conditions) — R1-43 and R1-10 Single-Family Zoning Districts in unincorporated Navajo County.
      “R1-43 R1-10 Minimum Parcel Size (Square Feet) 43,000 10,000”
    • District specific (with conditions) — C-R Commercial-Residential Zoning District in unincorporated Navajo County.
      “C-R Minimum Parcel Size (Square Feet) 6,000 Minimum Parcel Width (Feet) 60 Lot Area Per Dwelling Unit (Square Feet) 1,000”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Required building yards and setbacks in unincorporated Navajo County zoning districts.

    • A-General requires 20-foot front, 20-foot rear, and 10-foot side setbacks.
    • RU-20, RU-10, RU-5, and RU-1 each require 20-foot front, rear, and side setbacks.
    • R1-43 requires 20-foot front, rear, and side setbacks; R1-10 requires 20-foot front, rear, and 10-foot side setbacks.
    • R-2 and R-3 require 20-foot front, 15-foot rear, and 5-foot side setbacks.
    • C-R requires 20-foot front, 15-foot rear, and 5-foot side setbacks.
    • Article 25 contains additional yard rules, projections, corner-lot visibility restrictions, accessory-building rules, and a discretionary administrative waiver of up to 15%.

    A-General front/rear/side setback: 20 / 20 / 10 feet · RU districts front/rear/side setback: 20 / 20 / 20 feet · R1-43 front/rear/side setback: 20 / 20 / 20 feet · R1-10 front/rear/side setback: 20 / 20 / 10 feet · R-2/R-3 front/rear/side setback: 20 / 15 / 5 feet · C-R front/rear/side setback: 20 / 15 / 5 feet

    “Front Yard Setback (Feet) 20 20 Rear Yard Setback (Feet) 20 20 Side Yard Setback (Feet) 20 10”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Placement and occupancy of a single recreational vehicle outside an approved RV park in unincorporated Navajo County.

    • The county article regulates RV placement outside approved RV parks and provides for temporary placement; it does not regulate RVs within approved RV parks, National Forests, National Parks, State Parks, or County Parks.
    • A single RV is allowed only in A-General, Rural (RU), Single-Family (R1), or qualifying Special Development zoning districts.
    • An RV may not be placed in Industrial (IND), Commercial-Residential (C-R), or Multi-Family (R) districts except in an approved RV Park; the Director may waive this restriction case-by-case and grant a Temporary RV Permit upon a showing of good cause.
    • No RV may be placed on a permanent basis or as a rental unit.
    • The RV must comply with parcel zoning regulations and setbacks and be placed an additional ten feet from all property lines.
    • Floodplain requirements apply and a separate Floodplain Use Permit may be required.
    • Garbage and sewage must be disposed of in an approved system; the RV must be connected to permanent power; generators are prohibited; site-built additions may not be attached; and required building permits must be obtained.
    • A Seasonal RV Permit allows one placement once per calendar year for up to 120 days and may be renewed once per calendar year for good cause.
    • A Temporary RV Permit allows one RV for up to one year and may be renewed for good cause. A permit may run with a building permit for a principal dwelling and expires when the building permit expires, a certificate of occupancy is issued, or one year elapses, whichever comes first.
    • Temporary RV Permit fees are set by a Board of Supervisors fee schedule.

    additional property-line setback: 10 feet · seasonal placement duration: <= 120 days (one time each calendar year with Seasonal RV Permit) · temporary placement duration: up to one year (with Temporary RV Permit)

    “This Article provides for the temporary placement of an RV.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Placement and occupancy of a single recreational vehicle outside an approved RV Park in unincorporated Navajo County.
      “This Article provides for the temporary placement of an RV. [...] No RV shall be placed on a permanent basis. No RV shall be placed as a rental unit.”
    • Limited — Temporary occupancy and placement of a single recreational vehicle outside an approved RV park in Navajo County zoning districts where RV placement is allowed.
      “Subject to the provisions of Section 1502, a single RV may be placed one time each calendar year, for a period not to exceed one hundred and twenty (120) days, upon acquiring a Seasonal RV Permit.”
    • Prohibited — Occupancy or residential use of an RV stored outside an approved RV park, RV park, or manufactured-home subdivision unless another zoning provision expressly permits it.
      “At no time shall a stored Manufactured Home, RV, aircraft, or boat, be occupied or used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes.”
  • Camping on your landProhibited

    Primitive camping on vacant property and one-time RV use exceeding 30 consecutive days within the same calendar year.

    • The county FAQ identifies both listed activities as code violations.
    • The statement does not establish rules for camping in approved campgrounds, parks, or occupied residential parcels.

    RV one-time use duration: > 30 consecutive days (within the same calendar year)

    “Recreational Vehicle (one-time use for more than 30 consecutive days within the same calendar year) or primitive camping on vacant property.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary RV camping or temporary RV occupancy outside approved RV parks in the unincorporated areas of Navajo County.
      “a single RV may be placed for a period of up to one year upon the issuance of a Temporary RV (TRV) Permit”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Occupancy of manufactured homes as single-family dwellings, and storage of manufactured homes, in unincorporated Navajo County.

    • Manufactured homes are listed as allowed dwelling types for one single-family dwelling in the A-General and Rural zoning districts.
    • A stored manufactured home outside a Manufactured Home Park, RV Park, or Manufactured Home Subdivision may not be occupied or used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping; it also may not be stored on a parcel without a principal dwelling.
    • From and after March 1, 2024, a mobile home 20 years old or older at the time of application for a mobile-home/manufactured-home permit may not be located in unincorporated Navajo County.
    • The older-mobile-home prohibition has exceptions for homes lawfully located as of March 1, 2024, subject to relocation rules, and homes certified rehabilitated to HUD standards. Relocation requires rehabilitation verification and relevant Building Division permits before a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • Other parcel-specific zoning, building, environmental-quality, engineering, utility, and septic requirements apply.

    older mobile-home threshold: >= 20 years (ordinance exceptions apply) · older mobile-home prohibition effective date: 2024-03-01

    “One single-family dwelling. Allowed dwelling types include: a. Site-built homes. b. Manufactured homes. c. Rehabilitated mobile homes. d. Factory-built homes provided they are approved models with the Arizona Department of Housing. [...] At no time shall a stored Manufactured Home, RV, aircraft, or boat, be occupied or used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Prohibited — Mobile homes 20 years old or older at the time of application for a mobile-home/manufactured-home permit in unincorporated Navajo County, subject to stated exceptions.
      “Notwithstanding any other provision of the Zoning Ordinance, from and after March 1, 2024, no Mobile Home 20 years old or older at the time of application for mobile home/manufactured home permit shall be located within the unincorporated area of Navajo County.”
    • Limited — Occupancy of manufactured homes outside manufactured-home parks, RV parks, and manufactured-home subdivisions in unincorporated Navajo County.
      “At no time shall a stored Manufactured Home, RV, aircraft, or boat, be occupied or used for living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Guest houses/accessory dwelling units on lots in unincorporated Navajo County zoning districts where single-family dwellings are allowed.

    • Maximum one attached and one detached guest house on a lot under one acre; maximum one attached and two detached guest houses on a lot of one acre or more.
    • Guest houses are permitted in all zoning districts where single-family dwellings are allowed.
    • Rear and side setbacks are at least five feet; front setbacks follow the primary dwelling's zoning-district requirements.
    • Site-built homes, manufactured homes including rehabilitated mobile homes, and factory-built buildings may be used as guest houses where those structures are allowed as primary dwelling units.
    • Travel trailers and recreational vehicles are prohibited as guest houses.
    • Park models require a permanent or semi-permanent foundation and all other permitting requirements apply.
    • Applications require an accurate site plan/property description and preliminary floor plans/elevations. No guest-house permit is required for an attached guest house, but applicable Building, Environmental Quality, and Engineering Permits apply to all guest houses.
    • The A-General district separately lists guest houses as requiring an Administrative Permit.

    guest houses on lot under 1 acre: 1 attached and 1 detached · guest houses on lot 1 acre or more: 1 attached and 2 detached · minimum rear/side setback: >= 5 feet (front setback follows primary dwelling requirements)

    “One attached and one detached guest house are permitted on any lot under one (1) acre in size. One attached and two detached guest houses are permitted on any lot that is one (1) acre or more in size. Guest Houses shall be permitted in all zoning districts in which single-family dwellings are an allowed use.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Guest houses/accessory dwelling units in Navajo County zoning districts where single-family dwellings are allowed.
      “One attached and one detached guest house are permitted on any lot under one (1) acre in size. One attached and two detached guest houses are permitted on any lot that is one (1) acre or more in size.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    On-site wastewater treatment facilities in Navajo County that fall within the county's delegated authority.

    • Navajo County acts through a delegation agreement with ADEQ.
    • For the 4.02 permit, the delegated county authority covers septic systems with design flow less than 3000 gallons per day.
    • Projects presenting a conflict of interest if reviewed by the local authority are not delegated and ADEQ reviews those projects.

    delegated 4.02 design flow: < 3000 gallons per day (Projects presenting a conflict of interest are reviewed by ADEQ.)

    “THEREFORE, the Director of ADEQ delegates to the Navajo County Planning and Development Services as LA, and the LA accepts the delegation”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction and operation of residential conventional or alternative on-site wastewater treatment facilities in Navajo County.

    • Applicants must submit a Notice of Intent to Construct that meets state design requirements.
    • After approval, construction is authorized and must be completed within two years.
    • After construction, inspection, and testing, the applicant must submit a Notice of Intent to Discharge.
    • A Discharge Authorization is required before operation.
    • County review fees may differ from ADEQ fees.

    construction period after approval: 2 years · delegated conventional 4.02 design flow: < 3000 gallons per day (Higher-flow or non-delegated projects may require ADEQ review.)

    “The permitting process requires applicants to submit a Notice of Intent to Construct an onsite wastewater treatment facility that meets state design requirements.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Alternative on-site sanitation systems, including composting toilets, in Navajo County.

    • Composting toilets and listed alternative systems are subject to county application review and construction/discharge authorization.
    • The county's delegated authority is conditional and includes issuance or denial, inspections, compliance, and enforcement.
    • The cited county delegation materials do not establish unrestricted off-grid sanitation without approval.

    listed alternative system design flow: < 3000 gallons per day (Some alternative systems or projects may be reviewed by ADEQ rather than the county.)

    “Also, Navajo County does permit some alternative systems as well. [...] 4.03 Composting Toilet”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Homes built through Navajo County's A Home of My Own program.

    • The program requires either permitting and installing a septic system or providing evidence of a connection to a wastewater system.
    • The page states that the requirement applies before submitting for a permit through the A Home of My Own Program.
    • This source does not establish a countywide sewer-connection requirement outside that program.
    “will need to permit and install a septic system or provide evidence of a connection to a wastewater system.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Use or occupation of land or improvements for railroad, mining, metallurgical, grazing, or general agricultural purposes under Navajo County zoning regulations.

    • The exemption applies only when the lot is five or more contiguous acres.
    • The qualifying zones named are C-R, Ind-1, and Ind-2.
    • The paragraph does not affect uses or zones where the use is expressly permitted.
    • The ordinance specifically states that the exemption has no effect on agricultural uses allowed in the A-General Zone.
    • Other applicable regulations, including subdivision, septic, floodplain, building, and health requirements, may still apply.

    minimum contiguous acreage: >= 5 acres · qualifying zoning districts: C-R, Ind-1, and Ind-2 (No effect where the use or zone is expressly permitted; no effect on agricultural uses allowed in A-General.)

    “This Ordinance shall not prevent, restrict or otherwise regulate [...] general agricultural purposes, if the lot concerned is five or more contiguous acres [...] C-R, Ind-1, and Ind-2.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision of land in Navajo County, including subdivision activity in the county's unincorporated area.

    • The county subdivision regulations were approved and adopted by the Navajo County Board of Supervisors.
    • In the A-General Zoning District, no subdivision may be conducted or approved without prior rezoning of the land intended to be subdivided.
    • Subdivision regulations include plat, improvement, utility, sewage, floodplain, engineering, approval, and recording requirements.
    • The regulations state that a subdivision developer is a person or entity that initiates proceedings for a subdivision of six or more lots; applicability of other subdivision and land-division rules may depend on the specific proposal.

    subdivider threshold stated in definitions: >= 6 lots (Definition in the subdivision regulations; other land-division rules may apply separately.)

    “Any land or lands in the unincorporated territory of Navajo County [...] shall be subject to all of the provisions of the Subdivision Regulations.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Permanent construction, improvements, culvert installation, or new access involving a Navajo County road right-of-way in unincorporated Navajo County.

    • A right-of-way permit is required before permanent construction or improvements within the Navajo County road right-of-way.
    • For county-maintained roads, the permit process coordinates with Highway Maintenance for installing culverts and reviewing new access.
    • Routine maintenance on a public easement that is not a county-maintained roadway may not need a permit unless more than 50 cubic yards of roadway material is moved, permanent improvements are performed, or permanent obstructions are created.
    • Applications require job prints and a traffic control plan; failure to provide them may cause significant delays or denial.

    roadway material threshold for routine-maintenance permit exception: > 50 cubic yards (routine maintenance on a non-county-maintained public easement)

    “Prior to performing any permanent construction or improvements within the Navajo County Road right-of-way, a permit shall be applied for at the Navajo County Public Works Department.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development, including manufactured-home placement, within an Area of Special Flood Hazard under the jurisdiction of the Navajo County Flood Control District.

    • A Development Permit must be obtained before development begins in an Area of Special Flood Hazard.
    • The application may require scaled plans showing the nature, location, dimensions, elevations, structures, fill, storage, drainage facilities, and related locations.
    • Required information includes proposed lowest-floor elevations; floodproofing elevation for nonresidential structures; professional certification of nonresidential floodproofing; and a description of any watercourse alteration or relocation.
    • Floodway encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements, and other development, are prohibited unless a registered professional engineer or architect certifies that they will not increase flood levels during the base flood discharge.

    maximum permitted cumulative increase in base-flood water-surface elevation where no floodway is designated: <= 1 foot

    “A Development Permit shall be obtained before Development, including placement of a Manufactured Home, begins within any Area of Special Flood Hazard.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Navajo County Planning and Development Services building permits for new dwellings, remodels, commercial projects, additions, garages, accessory buildings, towers, and tower additions.

    • Building permit fees vary according to IBC/UBC Building Valuation Data and IRC 2018 charts and formulas adopted by Resolution 9-2022.
    • Plan review/check is 35% of the total building permit fee.
    • The Board of Supervisors adopted a new Planning and Development Services fee schedule on July 15, 2025, and the county page states that it is now in effect.

    plan review/check: 35 percent of total building permit fee

    “Building Permit New Dwelling, Remodel, Commercial, Addition, Garage, Accessory Buildings, Towers, Tower Additions Fees will vary in accordance with IBC/UBC Building Valuation Data- IRC 2018 Charts and Formulas adopted by Resolution 9-2022 Plan Review/Check Plans review 35% of the total building permit fee.”

Arizona rules that apply here

  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    County zoning regulations in Arizona's unincorporated county zoning districts.

    • A county board of supervisors may establish the percentage of a lot or parcel that may be covered by buildings.
    • The applicable percentage depends on the county zoning ordinance and district; this record does not supply a universal numeric percentage.

    maximum building lot coverage: percentage established by applicable county zoning ordinance percent

    “May establish the percentage of a lot or parcel that may be covered by buildings”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    County zoning regulations governing the height and location of buildings in Arizona county zoning districts.

    • The applicable height standard depends on the county zoning ordinance and zoning district.
    • No universal statewide residential height limit was established by the reviewed statute.

    building height: regulated by applicable county zoning regulations

    “the height and location of buildings”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Properties in Navajo County served by a conventional septic system or alternative onsite system when the home is transferred after resale.

    • The inspection requirement is triggered by resale of a home by an owner or with the assistance of a real estate professional.
    • The seller must retain a qualified inspector.
    • The inspection must occur within six months before the property transfer.
    • The buyer must submit a Notice of Transfer within 15 calendar days after transfer.

    inspection timing: 6 months before property transfer · Notice of Transfer deadline: 15 calendar days after transfer

    “The seller of a property served by a conventional septic system or alternative system shall retain a certified inspector”
  • Well permitRequired

    Drilling a new groundwater well or deepening or modifying an existing well in Arizona, including Navajo County.

    • A Notice of Intent to Drill must be filed with ADWR before drilling, deepening, or modifying a well.
    • The application must include the appropriate filing fee.
    • The authority to deepen or drill is valid for one year; after that, a new Notice of Intent is required.
    • A licensed well-drilling contractor must perform the work.
    • A Notice of Intent is not required for an exploration or specialty well that is less than 100 feet deep and not expected to hit water; if water is encountered, an NOI must be filed.
    • An NOI is also not required for oil, gas, or helium wells regulated by the Oil and Gas Commission.
    • For domestic use on a parcel of five acres or fewer, the applicable county or local health authority must endorse the NOI before submission to ADWR and a site plan must be attached.

    domestic parcel threshold for county health review: <= 5 acres · exploration or specialty well exemption depth: < 100 feet (The well must not be expected to hit water; an NOI is required if water is encountered.) · drilling authority validity: 1 year (A new NOI is required after expiration.)

    “Prior to drilling a new well, or deepening or modifying an existing well, a Notice of Intent to Drill must be filed with ADWR.”
  • Short-term rentalsAllowed (with conditions)

    Vacation rentals and short-term rentals in Arizona, including unincorporated Navajo County.

    • A county may not prohibit vacation rentals or short-term rentals.
    • A county may regulate them in unincorporated areas for public health and safety, qualifying use and zoning ordinances, specified prohibited activities, emergency contact information, local regulatory permits or licenses, notice to neighboring properties, advertising identification, liability insurance, and certain accessory-dwelling-unit owner-residency requirements.
    • A local regulatory permit or license fee may not exceed the actual cost of issuance or $250, whichever is less.
    • A county requiring a local regulatory permit or license must issue or deny it within seven business days after receiving the required information, subject to statutory denial grounds.
    • Short-term rentals may not be used for nonresidential uses such as special events requiring a permit, retail, restaurants, banquets, or similar uses.

    maximum local regulatory permit or license fee: <= 250 USD (fee may not exceed the actual cost of issuing the permit or license if lower) · permit or license decision deadline: 7 business days (applies after receipt of information required by statute) · minimum liability insurance: >= 500000 USD (unless offered through an online lodging marketplace providing equal or greater coverage)

    “A. A county may not prohibit vacation rentals or short-term rentals.”
  • 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.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in the unincorporated areas of Navajo County, excluding reservation land outside county authority and incorporated towns and cities.
  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of structures described as tiny homes in the unincorporated areas of Navajo 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 Navajo 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 ↗

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 Navajo County, Arizona

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

Navajo County scores 54/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 6,523 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 10.8″ of rain a year, in severe drought 41% of years.

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

Navajo County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Navajo County Planning & Development Services (ADEQ-delegated). 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 Navajo County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Navajo County is allowed on a temporary basis only: Placement and occupancy of a single recreational vehicle outside an approved RV park in unincorporated Navajo County. The county article regulates RV placement outside approved RV parks and provides for temporary placement; it does not regulate RVs within approved RV parks, National Forests, National Parks, State Parks, or County Parks. A single RV is allowed only in A-General, Rural (RU), Single-Family (R1), or qualifying Special Development zoning districts. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Navajo County, Arizona?

Land in Navajo County runs about $325 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Navajo County?

Navajo County gets about 10.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 41% of years. On water rights, Navajo County lies in the Joseph City Irrigation Non-Expansion Area — Irrigation of new acreage is prohibited; no AMA-style Assured Water Supply requirement; domestic exempt wells (≤35 gpm) still allowed..

How remote is Navajo County?

A typical private-land location has about 6,523 people within 15 miles and 280,381 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Navajo compares in Arizona

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