Maricopa County is located in central Arizona. It covers an area of more than 9,000 square miles that includes scenic mountain ranges and wide open desert spaces. Maricopa County government offices are located in Phoenix, which is the county seat. Other municipalities in Maricopa County include Tempe, Gilbert and Scottsdale, as well as several others.

Maricopa has a population of more than 3 million people. It's one of the most populated counties in the nation and has experienced steady growth through recent decades. Its inexpensive housing, steady growth, climate and scenery make it an attractive location for residents and businesses. Current and prospective residents can get access to information online. Maricopa County government provides several Internet resources, including:

1. Access to Maricopa County government records;

2. Online resources for starting a business in Maricopa;

3. Internet access to local laws.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Access Maricopa County public records

Many online services are offered by local government. Maricopa web resources include access to Maricopa County court records and land records.

I recommend: Look up parcel data by name, address, or parcel number at the Maricopa Office of the Assessor. At the Maricopa Superior Court site you can search for Maricopa County criminal records and court case histories. The Arizona Supreme Court site allows you to search all courts within the county. Sealed and juvenile cases are excluded from the search.

Get Maricopa County government and business news and information

Use online news and information outlets to plan a move to the area, get information about starting a business or keep informed about local news and events.

I recommend: The Maricopa Economic Development site provides information about small business and industrial assistance. Guidance and information about local events for small businesses are listed at the Arizona Department of Commerce. Keep up to date on business and local news with the Phoenix Business Journal or the Arizona Republic.

Find local Maricopa County government agencies

Individual municipalities within Maricopa County enact ordinances and zoning laws, set tax rates and process building permits and business licenses.

I recommend: You can link directly to municipalities within Maricopa from the front page of the county's website. With the Maricopa County personalization feature, choose your city or zip code to get local government information as well as news and weather. Many municipalities in the county use either American Legal Publishing or Municode to codify their ordinances. These companies provide online access to ordinances. You can view each article or search for specific phrases.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Keep in mind that municipalities within Maricopa County may enact their own laws, taxes and zoning ordinances that are separate from the county or state. Before you build or renovate property or start a business, call your local Maricopa County government agency to find out if there are any requirements or restrictions.