Tucson’s Planning & Development Services Department (PDSD) coordinates building permits, planning and zoning review, site engineering, and inspections. Most applications are handled through Tucson Development Center Online (TDC Online), the City’s self-service permitting portal. The system also connects permitting work involving Tucson Fire, Tucson Water, Transportation and Mobility, and Code Enforcement, allowing applicants to submit applications, track reviews, pay fees, and schedule inspections.
Land-development review is shaped by Tucson’s Unified Development Code (UDC), which applies to development and land uses throughout the city. Larger or site-related projects may require a Development Package rather than only a building permit. That review can combine site planning, landscaping, native plant preservation, water harvesting, grading, stormwater, and floodplain requirements, making site conditions especially important in Tucson.
Historic areas create another approval layer. Exterior development or modifications within a Historic Preservation Zone or on a Historic Landmark property require historic design review, including some work that might not otherwise need a conventional building permit. Tucson also uses special zoning overlays and design-review processes that can affect property-specific requirements.
Flood hazards and public right-of-way work are reviewed separately when applicable. Work within a regulated floodplain requires a Floodplain Use Permit, while Transportation and Mobility issues permits for construction affecting streets, sidewalks, curb cuts, utilities, and other City right-of-way. Applicants should begin with TDC Online and verify the property’s zoning, historic status, floodplain conditions, and site-development requirements before filing.