Common Questions

Everything You
Need to Know.

Answers to the questions we hear most often — HOA rules, lot sizes, costs, timelines, and how to finance your build.

General

A casita is a detached accessory dwelling unit — a freestanding backyard structure with its own entrance, kitchen, and bathroom. In Arizona it's the most common term for a backyard ADU.

Yes. HB 2720 (signed May 2024) requires all Arizona cities with 75,000+ population to allow at least one detached ADU on single-family lots. Phoenix, Scottsdale, and all major Valley cities comply as of January 2025.

HB 2720 does not override private HOA CC&Rs. If your HOA restricts additional structures, those rules may still apply. Run our free HOA eligibility check to find out.

The same thing. ADU is the legal term. Casita is the everyday Arizona term for a detached backyard dwelling unit.

Lot & Size

On lots under 10,000 SF: up to 1,000 SF. On lots over 10,000 SF: up to 3,000 SF or 10% of lot area. We confirm your exact eligibility on the first call.

Our Studio (400 SF) fits most Phoenix-area lots. The Sonoran (1,400 SF) requires a lot above 10,000 SF. Exact eligibility depends on your dimensions, setbacks, and jurisdiction.

HB 2720 caps setbacks at 5 feet — cities can't require more. Your city may allow less. We confirm your exact setback requirements for your specific parcel.

Process & Timeline

Most Valley Casita Co. projects complete in 6–9 months from consultation. Permitting: 60–90 days in Phoenix, 120–180 days in Scottsdale. Construction: 4–6 months.

Everything — plat review, HOA submission, architectural drawings, permit application, city correspondence, construction, inspections, and certificate of occupancy. One point of contact start to finish.

No. The casita is built in your backyard. Your main home is unaffected during construction.

Pricing & Financing

Our models start from $133,000 (The Studio, 400 SF) to $325,000 (The Sonoran, 1,400 SF). See our full pricing page.

Architectural drawings, standard permit fees, construction labor and materials, city inspections, and a standard appliance and finish package. Site-specific costs are itemized separately in your proposal.

HELOC, cash-out refinance, or ADU construction loan are the most common options. We connect you with preferred lenders. See our financing page.

Rental & Use

Yes — HB 2720 allows ADU short-term rental use. Scottsdale requires owner-occupancy of the primary residence for STR use. Phoenix is more flexible. STR licensing is handled separately after your CO is issued.

Yes — this is one of the most common uses. A casita provides complete independence while keeping family close. The Hacienda with dual bathrooms is especially popular for this.

No. Many homeowners build casitas for family use, guest hosting, or long-term property value. There is no requirement to rent.

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