The simple answer
A permit plan set usually includes drawings that explain the site, layout, exterior, structure, construction notes, and code-related items. It should answer the reviewer's basic questions without forcing them to guess.
Common parts of a residential plan set
Not every project needs every sheet. A Phoenix custom home, a Mesa addition, a Scottsdale remodel, and a Queen Creek detached RV garage may each require different levels of detail.
Site plan
A site plan usually shows the property, proposed work location, setbacks, existing structures, access, and other site information needed for review.
Floor plans
Floor plans show room layout, dimensions, doors, windows, fixtures, walls, and how the proposed work is organized.
Elevations and roof information
Exterior elevations, roof plans, heights, openings, and exterior notes help reviewers understand the building form and exterior changes.
Sections and details
Sections and details explain vertical relationships, assemblies, construction conditions, and areas that cannot be understood from the floor plan alone.
Code and construction notes
Notes may address fire separation, insulation, egress, ventilation, structural coordination, and other items tied to the project scope.
Engineering coordination
Some projects need structural engineering, truss drawings, calculations, or other consultant information coordinated into the permit package.
Why the contents vary
The plan set should match the scope. More complex projects usually need more drawings because there are more questions to answer about use, structure, site placement, utilities, and existing conditions.
- A custom home usually needs a broader plan set than a small interior remodel.
- An addition needs existing-to-proposed coordination and site placement information.
- A garage conversion may need existing-condition drawings plus proposed layout and utility notes.
- A detached shop, RV garage, or casita often needs stronger site planning and exterior information.
- Unpermitted or existing work may need as-built documentation before proposed corrections are clear.
Permit drawings are communication
The goal is not just to make a pretty plan. The drawings need to communicate the project clearly enough for review, coordination, and construction conversations.
Local review matters
Arizona jurisdictions can have different submittal expectations. The property location and project type should guide what information goes into the plan set.
Related planning guides
If you are not sure whether drawings are needed, start with when you need plans for a permit in Arizona. For custom homes, see what plans are needed for a custom home permit.
Need a residential permit plan set?
Residential Design prepares permit-ready residential plan sets for custom homes, remodels, additions, detached structures, as-built documentation, and existing-work projects in Arizona.