The simple answer
RV garage plans usually need to show the garage location, size, height, door layout, exterior appearance, structural approach, and any utilities or interior features. Taller walls, large openings, plumbing, and site constraints can all affect the plan set.
Helpful information to gather first
Property address and jurisdiction
Rough garage size and desired ceiling height
RV size, garage door width, and garage door height
Whether the garage will include a bathroom, storage, shop space, or conditioned area
Preferred location on the lot and driveway access
Any HOA, subdivision, floodplain, septic, or site constraints you already know about
What RV garage plans usually need to show
Exact requirements vary by jurisdiction and site conditions, but most RV garage plan sets need to answer the same basic questions: where is it going, how big is it, how tall is it, how is it accessed, and what is included inside?
Site plan
The site plan should show where the RV garage sits on the lot, including property lines, setbacks, existing structures, access, and other site constraints where known.
Floor plan and size
The floor plan should show the garage footprint, bay depth, wall layout, storage or shop areas, plumbing fixtures, openings, and key dimensions.
Door and height coordination
RV garages often need larger garage doors, taller walls, and roof coordination. Door height, vehicle clearance, and roof design should be considered early.
Permit notes and coordination
Depending on the project, the plan set may need structural notes, electrical information, plumbing/mechanical notes, exterior elevations, roof information, and engineering coordination.
Common issues to avoid
RV garages are often simple in concept, but small planning misses can turn into redesigns, review comments, or layout problems. It is better to confirm the big items before the drawings get too far along.
- Choosing a garage door size before confirming RV clearance and wall height
- Ignoring setbacks, easements, septic areas, drainage, or floodplain constraints
- Forgetting about driveway access and vehicle turning space
- Adding a bathroom or conditioned space without considering added permit review items
- Assuming a shop/RV garage is reviewed like a simple shed
Garage only or mixed use?
A simple RV garage is different from an RV garage with a bathroom, shop, laundry area, storage loft, or casita-style space. Added uses can change the level of detail needed in the plans.
Jurisdiction matters
Phoenix, Mesa, Queen Creek, Maricopa County, Pinal County, and other Arizona jurisdictions may handle detached structures differently. A good plan set should match the project location and review path.
How this relates to detached structure plans
An RV garage is one type of detached residential structure. For a broader overview of detached garages, shops, casitas, and accessory structures, see our guide on detached structure plan basics in Arizona.
Planning an RV garage in Arizona?
Residential Design can help prepare permit-ready plan sets for RV garages, detached garages, shops, and casita-style structures in the Phoenix Metro area and surrounding Arizona communities. Send the property address, rough size, door height needs, and intended use to get started.