What Marana Homebuyers Should Know About Local Permit Laws

Marana, Arizona is one of the fastest-growing communities in Southern Arizona, offering scenic desert living, newer developments, and custom homes on acreage. But whether you're buying a brand-new build in a planned community or a rural property with recent renovations, one thing remains critical: understanding local permit laws.

Before you sign on the dotted line, here’s what every Marana homebuyer should know about permits and how they can impact your home purchase.

Why Permits Matter in Marana

Permits exist to ensure that any construction, modification, or major repair on a property meets Pima County building codes and safety standards. This includes work on:

• Additions and guesthouses

• Garages and carports

• Electrical or plumbing upgrades

• Roof replacements

• Pools, fences, and retaining walls

Buying a home with unpermitted work can expose you to unexpected liabilities—including the cost of tearing out or redoing the work to bring it up to code.

Common Permit Issues in Marana

With a mix of rural properties and newer subdivisions, these are common situations where permits can be a concern:

• Garage or patio enclosures converted to living space without permits

• Unpermitted septic modifications on acreage homes

• Backyard workshops or sheds with uninspected electrical work

• Casitas or RV hookups added without zoning clearance

Some work may “look” professional but still be out of compliance—especially in rural areas where homeowners may have taken a DIY approach.

How to Check Permits in Marana

In Marana, most permits are handled through Pima County Development Services. You can search a property’s permit history using their online tools or request records directly from the county.

Your Realtor and inspector can also help identify signs of unpermitted work during the inspection period.

Can You Buy a Home with Unpermitted Work?

Yes—but it comes with caveats. If the home has work that wasn’t permitted or finalized, the responsibility may fall on you as the new owner. This could mean:

• Applying for retroactive permits

• Paying for updates or code corrections

• Facing fines or delays if you try to remodel or sell later

That’s why it’s crucial to know what you’re walking into and negotiate accordingly.

Tips to Protect Yourself as a Marana Buyer

• Ask questions about recent renovations or additions

• Hire a qualified home inspector familiar with rural and suburban homes

• Request permits and inspection reports for any major updates

• Work with a local Realtor who knows Marana's zoning and permitting process

Need Help Navigating the Marana Market?

Local expertise matters—especially in a community with such a wide variety of home types and zoning rules. Ryan Comstock is a trusted Realtor in the Marana area and can help you navigate every aspect of your purchase, from inspections to permits and beyond.

📞 Call Ryan at (520) 261-4669
🌐 Visit www.ryancomstock.com

Whether you're buying in a golf course community or on a few acres of land, Ryan will make sure you're protected—and informed—every step of the way.