Bolthole Index

Beaver County, Utah

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Beaver County, Utah

50Index Score / 100
#14 of 29 in Utah

Unincorporated Beaver County, Utah requires a building permit before most construction, alterations, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated trade work1. The county administers zoning and applies Utah's state construction code to unincorporated parcels23. Southwest Utah Public Health Department handles septic permits and inspections4.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for most construction and regulated trade work1
Zoning
County-administered for unincorporated parcels beginning 01- or 02-2
Septic permits
Southwest Utah Public Health Department4
RV living
Temporary owner permit only; May 1 through October 31, up to 180 days yearly5
Owner-builder
Licensing exemption available; permits and inspections still apply6
Private well
Water right and state permission required before drilling7
Manufactured-home width
At least 24 feet; multisectional or multimodular on a permanent foundation8

Who to call

Building permits

Beaver County Building Department

Building permits, zoning, payment and inspection scheduling for unincorporated Beaver County

(435) 438-6484

105 East Center Street, Beaver, UT 84713

Septic permits

Southwest Utah Public Health Department Environmental Health

Reviews septic plans, issues permits, conducts inspections and maintains records for Beaver County

(435) 865-5158

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 15, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Beaver County, Utah?

Yes. Unincorporated Beaver County requires the owner or authorized agent to obtain a permit before covered construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, occupancy changes, or regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing work1. The county has adopted the state construction code for construction it regulates in unincorporated areas3. A detached, single-story storage shed or playhouse no larger than 200 square feet is among the listed permit exceptions, subject to the county's stated limitations1. Utah's agricultural construction-code exemption can cover a structure used solely for agriculture and not for human occupancy, but regulated trade work may still need permits and the exemption narrows on certain smaller tracts9. A building may not be used or occupied until the building official issues a certificate of occupancy after all required inspections are approved10. For commercial buildings and changes of occupancy classification in unincorporated Beaver County, the county cites International Building Code Section 110.1 and likewise issues no certificate of occupancy until every required inspection is approved11.

Who is the Beaver County building department, and how do you reach it?

The Beaver County Building Department handles building permits and inspections for unincorporated Beaver County at 105 East Center Street in Beaver; call (435) 438-648412. For unincorporated parcels beginning with 01- or 02-, the department handles zoning, applications, payment, and inspection scheduling212. Milford requires building permits under its own rules, with applications filed through Beaver County's Building Department; Southwest Utah Public Health Department remains the septic authority134. The county's online application accepts plans, engineering, septic permits, soil-test results, and owner-builder certification; payment follows plan review and zoning approval14. A building permit is not valid until required fees are paid15. Electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and roofing permits cost $75.75; building permit fees differ by the permit issued, and new-home and commercial fees are based on square footage, materials, and labor, with credit-card processing and some additional inspection charges possible16. Required inspections need at least 24 hours' notice17.

Does Beaver County have zoning?

Yes. Beaver County administers zoning for unincorporated parcels whose parcel numbers begin with 01- or 02-2. Minersville administers its own zoning inside town limits; Southwest Utah Public Health Department remains the septic authority, and the town requires written health-department approval of water and waste disposal before a building permit18194. Beaver City handles its own zoning, and Milford and Minersville handle the zoning portion of their permits, so the county's zoning rules here apply to unincorporated land20. The county code publishes district regulations, including an Agricultural 5 District, but the online zoning map is informational rather than legally binding and designations can change, so confirm the parcel's district before relying on the map2122. Minimum lot sizes depend on the district: FR-1 requires at least 1 acre and 120 feet of width23, FR-.5 requires at least 0.5 acre and 80 feet of width24, and any dwelling in the MU-20 Multiple Use District needs at least 20 acres25. Internal accessory dwelling units are permitted in some residential districts and conditional in others, are prohibited on parcels under 6,000 square feet, and may not have a separate utility meter26. Planned unit developments in residential or agricultural districts require at least 5 acres, with lot coverage determined by the approved site-development plan27. Beaver County generally regulates divisions into 2 or more lots, although qualifying minor and simple subdivisions follow alternate procedures28. Agricultural-purpose divisions can be exempt from those subdivision rules without becoming exempt from zoning, building, septic, health, or access requirements29.

How do septic permits work in Beaver County?

Southwest Utah Public Health Department is the septic authority for Beaver County, and its Environmental Health program reviews plans, issues permits, conducts inspections, and keeps system records430. Call the Beaver and Garfield County septic contact at (435) 865-515830. A permit and approved design are required before installing, replacing, or modifying a septic system, and soil and percolation testing must be completed by a Utah-certified onsite professional31. Every septic system needs a final inspection before backfilling32. Only 37.1% of Beaver County soils avoid severe USDA limitations for a conventional drain field, so make septic feasibility part of the land evaluation rather than assuming a standard system will work33. Off-grid wastewater may use an approved onsite system, but it remains subject to district permitting and inspection34.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Beaver County?

Beaver County prohibits residential use of a travel trailer outside approved and licensed travel-trailer parks, except for the temporary owner permit described next5. Travel trailers may be stored in unincorporated areas but may not serve as permanent living quarters35. A property owner may obtain a temporary-use permit in agricultural, multiple use, residential estate, residential, forest/recreation residential, and multiple-family residential districts from May 1 through October 31, for at most 180 days per calendar year, issued again each year5. The temporary residence requires an approved septic tank, culinary water, fire protection, and adequate power5. We could not confirm a specific tiny-home occupancy rule; ask the Beaver County Building Department how the proposed unit will be classified12. A new manufactured house on a single-family-zoned lot in unincorporated Beaver County must be at least 24 feet wide at its smallest dimension, multisectional or multimodular, and installed on a compliant permanent foundation, with applicable zoning and utility approvals8. Detached accessory dwellings must be permanent structures; wheeled trailers do not qualify36. A short-term rental requires a conditional-use permit; the application lists a $100 fee, plus letter and hourly charges when the property is in an Agriculture District and owners within 500 feet must be notified, and it also requires a state transient-room-tax number and safety, parking, and posting standards37.

Building a home in Beaver County: the steps, in order

  1. Identify whether the parcel is unincorporated from its parcel number, then confirm the zoning district and allowed dwelling type with the Beaver County Building Department212.
  2. Verify the district's lot area, width, setbacks, height, access, and subdivision status before designing the home38394028.
  3. Secure a water source; a private well requires a valid water right and state permission to drill7.
  4. Obtain written health-department approval for the culinary-water supply and waste-disposal method, including the septic permit and design when needed4131.
  5. Obtain any required conditional-use permit before applying for the building permit, and begin permitted work within 180 days or a new permit is required41.
  6. Schedule each required county inspection with at least 24 hours' notice, leave the septic system uncovered for final inspection, and obtain the certificate of occupancy before using the building173210.

What should you check before buying land in Beaver County?

Verify septic feasibility early because only 37.1% of county soils avoid severe limitations for a conventional drain field33. Confirm legal water before assuming a well is available, since groundwater use and drilling require a valid water right and state approval7. Sidewalks and driveways are exempt from Beaver County building permits, but a separate county right-of-way encroachment permit may be required when the work crosses a county right-of-way, so ask the Building Department about the proposed connection4212. A connection to a state highway requires a UDOT conditional access permit43. Construction or development in a mapped special-flood-hazard, erosion-hazard, or mudflow-hazard area requires a county flood-control development permit before work starts, and the county may ask for scaled plans and lowest-floor elevations44. Ask the county building inspector for flood-control application forms; the county commission, building inspector, or a designated engineer administers the requirements45. Beaver County averages 2.8 people per square mile, and 76.7% of its land is federally owned4647. The effective property-tax rate is about 0.4%, with a median annual bill of $1,1214849.

Watch-outs

  • A small accessory building may be permit-exempt, but adding electrical work triggers a permit1.
  • The Utah owner-builder exemption concerns contractor licensing only; Beaver County permits, inspections, zoning, and other requirements still apply6.
  • The county zoning map is informational and zoning designations can change, so verify the district with the Building Department before designing or buying2212.

Sources

  1. Building Permit Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  2. Building Department | Beaver County, UT - Official Website, quoted and re-checked
  3. 8-1-1: State Construction Code Adopted | County Code of Beaver County, UT, quoted and re-checked
  4. Septic Systems - Southwest Utah Public Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  5. 9-20-2: Location and Use, quoted and re-checked
  6. Utah Code § 58-55-305, Exemptions from licensure, quoted and re-checked
  7. Water Well Drilling - Utah Division of Water Rights, quoted and re-checked
  8. 9-13-21: Manufactured and Modular Housing, quoted and re-checked
  9. Utah Code § 15A-1-204 (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Inspection Information, quoted and re-checked
  11. Inspection Information, quoted and re-checked
  12. Beaver County Building Department (beaver.utah.gov)
  13. Milford: Building Permits (Beaver County), quoted and re-checked
  14. Building Department, quoted and re-checked
  15. Permits, quoted and re-checked
  16. Fees & Payments, quoted and re-checked
  17. Inspection Information, quoted and re-checked
  18. Town of Minersville: Sec. 28-226. Establishment of zoning districts (Beaver County), quoted and re-checked
  19. Town of Minersville: Sec. 28-7. Building permit required (Beaver County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Building Department | Beaver County, UT - Official Website, quoted and re-checked
  21. Beaver County Zoning Interactive Map, quoted and re-checked
  22. Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  23. 9-6C-5: Area, Width And Yard Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  24. 9-6C-5: Area, Width And Yard Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  25. 9-7-4: Area Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  26. 9-21-4: Permitted and Conditional Uses and Limitations, quoted and re-checked
  27. 9-18-4: Required Conditions, quoted and re-checked
  28. Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  29. 10-3-6: Exemptions and Variations, quoted and re-checked
  30. Southwest Utah Public Health Department Environmental Health (swuhealth.gov)
  31. Septic Systems - Southwest Utah Public Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  32. Septic System Application Checklist v03-2023, quoted and re-checked
  33. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Septic Systems - Southwest Utah Public Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  35. Building Department | Beaver County, UT - Official Website, quoted and re-checked
  36. 9-21-4: Permitted and Conditional Uses and Limitations, quoted and re-checked
  37. CUP - Short-Term Rental / Bed & Breakfast, quoted and re-checked
  38. 9-6C-5: Area, Width and Yard Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  39. 9-6C-5: Area, Width and Yard Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  40. 9-6C-4: Height Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  41. 9-1-7: Building Permit Required, quoted and re-checked
  42. Building Permit Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  43. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  44. 9-10B-4: Permit Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  45. 9-10B-4: Permit Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  46. Population density: Bolthole Index county data
  47. Federal land share: Bolthole Index county data
  48. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  49. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 15, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Beaver County has countywide zoning.

RuleBeaver CountyIron CountyMillard CountyPiute CountyWashington CountySevier CountyJuab County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimited
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsSouthwest Utah Public Health Dept.Southwest Utah Public Health Dept.Central Utah Public Health Dept.Central Utah Public Health Dept.Southwest Utah Public Health Dept.Central Utah Public Health Dept.Central Utah Public Health Dept.

County locator

Beaver County in Utah

50
County map
Beaver County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Beaver County scores

Seclusion89100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency2695% ev.
Admin Boringness40100% ev.
Durability38100% ev.
Property Autonomy60100% ev.
Carry Cost82100% ev.

Evidence strength: 99%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$322kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$3,779Land / acre
12.7"Annual rain
20.3% of yrsSevere drought
7.4 / yr (+6.7)Mid-century 100°F days
34.5 daysMid-century dry spell
0.91" (+7.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.16×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$922Home insurance / yr
2.9% / yrInsurance growth
0.62%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
737People within 30 min
158,643People within 2 hr
2,153Radius comparison (15 mi)
2.8People / sq mi
76.7%Federal land
77.9%Land at 15% slope or less
37.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
259,390 acWorkable land screen
32.8%Wooded land
12.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
49.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Beaver County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Beaver

Answers from the rulebook for Beaver County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Beaver County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, movement, demolition, or occupancy change of a building or structure, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work in unincorporated Beaver County.

    • The owner or authorized agent must first apply to the building official and obtain the required permit.
    • Emergency equipment replacements and repairs require the permit application by the next working business day.
    • No permit is required for listed exceptions including detached single-story accessory structures not exceeding 200 square feet, subject to the page's stated limitations.
    • The Beaver County Building Department handles permits and inspections for unincorporated Beaver County; incorporated municipalities may administer zoning, payment, or permit applications differently.

    detached single-story accessory structure permit threshold: <= 200 square feet (Storage/tool sheds and playhouses are listed as exempt only when single story and detached.) · emergency repair application deadline: next working business day (Emergency equipment replacements and repairs.)

    “shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction regulated by Beaver County in unincorporated Beaver County.

    • The adopted construction code is the state construction code adopted by the Utah Legislature under Utah Code Annotated § 15A-1-204, as amended.
    • The County Building Department handles building permits and inspections for unincorporated Beaver County.
    • The ordinance citation states Ord. 2014-03, dated 2-3-2014; no separate effective date is stated in the cited passage.
    “The state construction code adopted by the legislature in accordance with Utah Code Annotated section 15A-1-204, as amended, is hereby adopted as the construction code for the county. (Ord. 2014-03, 2-3-2014)”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Permitted construction in unincorporated Beaver County.

    • The permit holder or contractor must contact the Beaver County Building Department for all required inspections.
    • The person requesting an inspection must provide access to and means for inspection.
    • At least 24 hours' notice is required.
    • Work may not proceed beyond each successive inspection point without building-department approval; noncompliant portions must be corrected and may not be covered or concealed until authorized.
    • The listed inspections are not conclusive and may vary with project scope.
    • The county also provides contracted inspection services for Beaver City, Milford City, and Minersville Town.

    minimum inspection notice: >= 24 hours · listed residential inspections: footings, foundations, underground electrical and plumbing, framing, rough plumbing, rough electrical, rough mechanical, weather resistive barrier and flashing, insulation and vapor barrier, drywall/firewall, exterior siding/brick/stucco, gas piping, electrical service panel, and final (List may vary depending on project scope.)

    “It shall be the duty of the permit holder or their agent to notify Beaver County Building Department that work is ready for inspection.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Use or occupancy of a building, or a change in existing occupancy classification, under the Beaver County Building Department's jurisdiction.

    • The building official must issue the certificate of occupancy before use or occupancy or a change in occupancy classification.
    • All required inspections must be completed and approved before the certificate of occupancy is issued.
    • Criminal charges may be filed for violation of the ordinance.
    • The county provides contracted inspection services for certain incorporated municipalities, which may have separate administrative arrangements.
    “A certificate of occupancy will not be issued without all required inspections having been completed and approved.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Commercial buildings or structures and changes in existing occupancy classification subject to the International Building Code in unincorporated Beaver County.
      “Please note that the International Building Code Section 110.1 states, "No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing occupancy classification. . .shall be made until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy... A certificate of occupancy will not be issued without all required inspections having been completed and approved."”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land-use zoning administered by Beaver County for unincorporated Beaver County parcels, identified by parcel numbers beginning 01- or 02-.

    • The County Building Department states that, for unincorporated parcels, "Everything goes through Beaver County: zoning, permit application, payment, and scheduling inspections."
    • Incorporated Beaver City, Minersville, and Milford have separate zoning administration as described by the County.
    “Unincorporated Beaver County — Parcel starts with 01- or 02- Everything goes through Beaver County: zoning, permit application, payment, and scheduling inspections.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Zoning administration across unincorporated and incorporated areas of Beaver County.

    • This is an aggregate countywide conclusion; it does not assert that Beaver County administers each municipal zoning ordinance.
    • Unincorporated parcels beginning 01- or 02- are administered by Beaver County for zoning.
    • Beaver City handles zoning; Minersville and Milford handle the zoning portion of permitting.
    “Beaver City handles zoning, permit applications, and scheduling inspections through their own City Inspect website. Currently, payments will need to be made in person at Beaver City. The inspections themselves are completed by Beaver County under contract. Minersville handles the zoning portion of the permit. Everything else — permit application, payment, and inspections — goes through Beaver County's Building Department. Milford handles the zoning portion of the permit and payment of the permit. Everything else — permit application and inspections — goes through Beaver County's Building Department.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    County zoning designations and district regulations for Beaver County, including the Agricultural 5 District (A-5).

    • The county's interactive zoning map is informational and not legally binding; zoning designations are subject to change and should be verified with the appropriate authorities.
    • The county code publishes an Agricultural 5 District with sections for purpose, permitted uses, conditional uses, height regulations, area/width/yard regulations, modifying regulations, other provisions, and qualifying regulations.
    “This zoning map is provided for informational purposes only and is not a legally binding document. While efforts are made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information, the County makes no representations or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or current status of the zoning data. Zoning designations are subject to change.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County-published zoning designations for unincorporated Beaver County.
      “This zoning map is provided for informational purposes only and is not a legally binding document.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Placement of a new manufactured house on a lot zoned for single-family dwellings in unincorporated Beaver County.

    • A building permit may be issued only upon application, payment of a fee, and evidence satisfactory to the building inspector of compliance with the listed conditions.
    • The manufactured house must be placed on a permanent foundation meeting the adopted building code and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
    • The lot must comply with the zoning requirements for its district, including lot size, setbacks, access, enclosures, yard requirements, and structure orientation.
    • The home must be HUD-approved, constructed after July 1, 1976, and not altered in violation of HUD standards.
    • The manufactured house must be multisectional or multimodular.
    • The width is the smallest dimension and the sides must face the side yards; it may not face the addressed street.
    • Permanent utility connections require local-authority approval.
    • The section does not limit or exclude construction or placement of a permanent dwelling on a lot zoned for single-family dwelling as otherwise permitted by existing legislation.

    minimum manufactured-house width: >= 24 feet (Width is the smallest dimension; the house must be multisectional or multimodular.)

    “The manufactured house shall have a minimum width of twenty four feet (24'), with width being the smallest dimension, and be multisectional or multimodular.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots in Beaver County Forest/Recreation Residential districts FR-1 and FR-.5.

    • The cited standards apply specifically to the FR-1 and FR-.5 zoning districts.
    • Other Beaver County zoning districts may have different area requirements.
    • The code page identifies the provision as amended by Ordinance 2019-05 dated 9-3-2019.

    FR-1 minimum lot area: >= 1 acre · FR-.5 minimum lot area: >= 0.5 acre · FR-1 minimum lot width: >= 120 feet · FR-.5 minimum lot width: >= 80 feet

    “District | Area (Acre) | Width (Feet) | Yards In Feet Front | Side | Rear FR-1 | 1 | 120 | 25 | 15 and 15 | 20 FR-.5 | 1/2 | 80 | 25 | 15 and 15 | 15”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Dwellings and development in Beaver County FR-1 Forest/Recreation Residential District.
      “FR-1 | 1 | 120 | 25 | 15 and 15 | 20”
    • Specified — Dwellings and development in Beaver County FR-.5 Forest/Recreation Residential District.
      “FR-.5 | 1/2 | 80 | 25 | 15 and 15 | 15”
    • Specified — Any dwelling in Beaver County MU-20 Multiple Use District.
      “The minimum lot area for any dwelling shall be twenty (20) acres in the MU-20 Zone.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Building setbacks in Beaver County Forest/Recreation Residential districts FR-1 and FR-.5.

    • The cited setbacks apply specifically to the FR-1 and FR-.5 zoning districts.
    • FR-1 requires a 25-foot front yard, 15-foot side yards on each side, and a 20-foot rear yard.
    • FR-.5 requires a 25-foot front yard, 15-foot side yards on each side, and a 15-foot rear yard.
    • The code page identifies the provision as amended by Ordinance 2019-05 dated 9-3-2019.

    FR-1 front yard setback: >= 25 feet · FR-1 side yard setback, each side: >= 15 feet · FR-1 rear yard setback: >= 20 feet · FR-.5 front yard setback: >= 25 feet · FR-.5 side yard setback, each side: >= 15 feet · FR-.5 rear yard setback: >= 15 feet

    “District | Area (Acre) | Width (Feet) | Yards In Feet Front | Side | Rear FR-1 | 1 | 120 | 25 | 15 and 15 | 20 FR-.5 | 1/2 | 80 | 25 | 15 and 15 | 15”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Planned unit developments in Beaver County residential or agricultural districts.

    • A planned unit development must have at least five acres in a residential or agricultural district.
    • Lot coverage is determined through approval of the site development plan.
    • The proposed use must satisfy the other listed planned-unit-development conditions, including required open-space, landscaping, grading and drainage, planting, and nondetriment requirements.

    minimum planned unit development area in residential or agricultural district: >= 5 acres · lot coverage: determined by approved site development plan

    “Lot area, width, yard, height, density and coverage regulations shall be determined by approval of the site development plan.”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Buildings and dwelling structures in the Beaver County Forest/Recreation Residential district.

    • No building may exceed 30 feet.
    • A dwelling structure must be at least one story.
    • The cited section does not state a separate exception in the quoted rule.

    maximum building height: <= 30 feet · minimum dwelling height: >= 1 story

    “No building shall be erected to a height greater than thirty feet (30'), and no dwelling structure shall be erected to a height less than one story.”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Travel-trailer residential occupancy in Beaver County zoning districts, including property-owner temporary residence and approved travel-trailer parks.

    • Residential use of a travel trailer is prohibited outside approved and licensed travel-trailer parks, except as otherwise provided.
    • A property-owner temporary residence is limited to the agricultural, multiple use, residential estate, residential, forest/recreation residential, and multiple-family residential zoning districts.
    • A temporary use permit may be granted only between May 1 and October 31.
    • The permit may not exceed 180 days in each calendar year and must be issued each year.
    • The permit requires an approved septic tank, adequate fire protection, an approved culinary water source, and adequate power.
    • Travel-trailer park development requires an overall plan submitted to the planning commission for review.

    maximum temporary-residence duration: 180 days per calendar year (permit must be issued each year) · temporary-residence season: May 1 through October 31

    “Travel trailers may be stored, but not used for permanent living quarters.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary residential use of travel trailers and temporary camping-related occupancy in unincorporated Beaver County under the county zoning ordinance.

    • Residential use of a travel trailer is generally limited to approved and licensed travel trailer parks, except as otherwise provided by the ordinance.
    • An individual trailer may use one space in a travel trailer park for no more than 180 consecutive days, and the space may not be rented or leased to one individual for longer than 180 days.
    • Travel trailers may be stored but may not be used for permanent living quarters.
    • In an approved and licensed mobile home park, the travel-trailer portion must be separated from mobile homes by barriers, screens, or otherwise; have direct access to a collector or arterial street; and provide separate ingress and egress when required by the planning commission.
    • A property owner may use a travel trailer as a temporary residence in agricultural, multiple use, residential estate, residential, forest/recreation residential, and multiple-family residential zoning districts only with a temporary use permit.
    • A temporary use permit may be granted only between May 1 and October 31, may not exceed 180 days in each calendar year, and must be issued each year.
    • The temporary use permit requires findings of an approved septic tank under state Department of Environmental Quality and building inspector standards, adequate fire protection required by the Beaver County fire district, an approved culinary water source, and an adequate power source approved by the building inspector.
    • The cited county page states that Beaver County handles zoning for unincorporated parcels, while incorporated municipalities handle their own zoning or zoning portions; this claim therefore does not apply countywide to incorporated municipalities.

    maximum occupancy in one travel-trailer-park space: <= 180 consecutive days (The space may not be rented or leased to one individual for longer than 180 days.) · temporary residence permit season: May 1 through October 31 · temporary residence permit maximum: <= 180 days per calendar year (The permit must be issued each year.)

    “Travel trailers may be used as a temporary residence in the agricultural, multiple use, residential estate, residential, forest/recreation residential and multiple-family residential zoning districts by the property owner. A temporary use permit may be granted only between May 1 and October 31. Such permit may not exceed one hundred eighty (180) days each calendar year, and must be issued each year.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Placement and residential occupancy of new HUD-certified manufactured homes on lots zoned for single-family dwellings in Beaver County.

    • Application and payment of a fee are required before a building permit may be issued.
    • The home must be HUD-certified under the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 and constructed after July 1, 1976.
    • The lot must be zoned for single-family dwellings and comply with applicable zoning requirements, including lot size, setbacks, access, enclosures, yard requirements, and structure orientation.
    • The home must be placed on a permanent foundation complying with the adopted building code, with permanent masonry or cement perimeter enclosures and removal of towing hitches and transport running gear.
    • The home must be used only for purposes allowed in the zoning district and be compatible with existing structures.
    • The minimum width is 24 feet, the home must be multisectional or multimodular, and its sides must face the side yards.
    • Corrugated metal, fiberglass, and typical trailer-coach or recreational-vehicle coverings are prohibited.
    • The roof must have at least a 3-inch vertical rise per 12 inches of horizontal run, meet required snow and dead-load engineering, and satisfy the stated eave-overhang requirements.
    • Accessory uses and additions must conform to applicable codes.
    • Permanent utility connections require local-authority approval, including two hose bibs when not contained within the home.
    • The title must be delivered to the county assessor, after which the home is subject to local taxation as real property.

    minimum home width: >= 24 feet (width is the smallest dimension) · minimum roof pitch: >= 3:12 vertical rise:horizontal run · construction date: > after July 1, 1976

    “The manufactured house shall have received an insignia of approval by the U.S. department of housing and urban development”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Detached accessory dwelling units in Beaver County zoning districts.

    • A detached ADU must be a permanent structure; trailers, mobile homes, and other portable structures, especially structures with wheels, are not permitted as detached ADUs.
    • Detached ADUs may not be built on slopes of 30 percent or greater.
    • The rear-yard parcel coverage limit is 25 percent.
    • Side and rear setbacks are 5 feet; heights greater than 16 feet require increased setbacks.
    • The maximum height is 24 feet and all county requirements apply.
    • Two off-street parking spaces are required for the ADU in addition to the principal dwelling's minimum parking requirement.
    • The occupancy limit is one occupant per 210 square feet of habitable space.

    maximum slope: < 30 percent · rear-yard parcel coverage: <= 25 percent · side and rear setback: >= 5 feet (heights greater than 16 feet require increased setbacks) · maximum height: <= 24 feet (must also follow county setback and height requirements) · occupancy limit: per 1 occupant per 210 square feet of habitable space

    “A detached ADU shall be a permanent structure.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Onsite wastewater and septic-system permitting, inspection, and records for Beaver County within the Southwest Utah Public Health Department district.

    • The district also serves Garfield, Iron, Kane, and Washington Counties.
    • Utah DEQ identifies the local health department as the primary contact for septic systems and private wells.
    “Your Local Health Department (LHD) is your primary contact for issues like septic systems (onsite wastewater), private wells (not part of a public water system), food safety, and general sanitation. [...] Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, Washington Southwest Utah Public Health Department”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installing, replacing, or modifying a septic system in Beaver County within the Southwest Utah Public Health Department district.

    • A permit and approved design are required before installing, replacing, or modifying the system.
    • A complete application package is required; incomplete submissions may delay the request.
    • Soil and percolation testing must be completed by a Utah-certified onsite professional before design or installation.
    “A permit and approved design are required before installing, replacing, or modifying a system.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Individual septic systems in Beaver County within the Southwest Utah Public Health Department district.

    • Every septic system must receive a final inspection before backfilling.
    • The inspection is to assure compliance with submitted plans and septic-system regulations.
    • The applicant must call the Environmental Health Office to schedule an appointment.
    • Information about materials used must be available on-site.
    “Every septic system must have a final inspection BEFORE BACKFILLING to assure compliance with submitted plans and septic system regulations.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Off-grid wastewater sanitation using an onsite wastewater/septic system in Beaver County within the Southwest Utah Public Health Department district.

    • An onsite wastewater system is an authorized alternative to a public sewer connection under the cited official guidance.
    • A permit and approved design are required before installing, replacing, or modifying the system.
    • The system remains subject to district review and inspection.
    “Utah law requires wastewater to be handled through a public sewer connection or an onsite wastewater system (septic system). A permit and approved design are required before installing, replacing, or modifying a system.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Bona fide divisions or partitions of agricultural land for agricultural purposes in Beaver County.

    • The exemption is from the county subdivision provisions and regulations cited in Section 10-3-6.
    • The division must be a bona fide division or partition of agricultural land for agricultural purposes as defined in the county code.
    • This claim does not establish an exemption from zoning, building, septic, health, access, or other applicable requirements.
    “Land divisions which are bona fide divisions or partitions of agricultural land for agricultural purposes, as defined herein.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Land divisions in Beaver County that meet the county's subdivision definition, including divisions for offer, sale, lease, or development.

    • The county subdivision page defines a subdivision as land divided, re-subdivided, or proposed to be divided into two or more lots, parcels, sites, units, plots, or other divisions for offer, sale, lease, or development.
    • County subdivision regulations apply generally to land divided into two or more parts.
    • Bona fide divisions or partitions of agricultural land for agricultural purposes are exempt from the cited county subdivision regulations.
    • Bona fide divisions or partitions of commercial land for commercial purposes and industrial land for industrial purposes are also exempt under the cited section.
    • A subdivision of fewer than ten lots is treated as a minor subdivision and need not file or record a final plat before sale by metes and bounds if all listed conditions are met, including ALUA recommendation, approval marking, no mapped proposed-street conflict or dedication requirement, zoning frontage/width/area compliance or variance, precise dimensions, and required improvements.
    • A simple subdivision may divide one parcel into two if the cited requirements are met and all land-use regulations are followed.

    minimum number of lots or divisions for subdivision definition: >= 2 lots or divisions · minor subdivision threshold: < 10 lots (The section states subdivisions of less than ten lots are minor subdivisions subject to the listed conditions.)

    “Any land divided for any purpose into two (2) or more parts after the passage date hereof, shall be subject to the provisions and regulations herein, except the following, which are exempt therefrom:”
  • Driveway accessNot required

    Sidewalks and driveways under Beaver County building-permit requirements.

    • The cited county page places sidewalks and driveways in the work-not-requiring-a-building-permit list.
    • This claim addresses the county building-permit requirement and does not resolve separate right-of-way or access approvals.
    “Work Not Requiring a Permit [...] Sidewalks and driveways”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Not required — Ordinary sidewalk and driveway work under Beaver County building-permit requirements in unincorporated areas.
      “Work Not Requiring a Permit [...] Sidewalks and driveways”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction or development within Beaver County areas of special flood hazard, flood-related erosion hazards, or mudslide/mudflow hazards.

    • A flood control development permit is required before construction or development begins.
    • Applications use forms furnished by the county building inspector, county planning commission, or an engineer designated by the county commission.
    • Applications may require scaled duplicate plans showing the nature, location, dimensions, and elevation of the area; existing or proposed structures; fill; material storage; drainage facilities; lowest-floor elevations; floodproofing elevations; certifications; and watercourse alterations.
    • The county commission, county building inspector, or designated professional engineer administers the article and reviews required state and federal permits, site safety, and flood-carrying-capacity impacts.
    • The cumulative effect of development may not increase base-flood water-surface elevation by more than one foot where the floodway has not been designated.

    maximum cumulative base-flood water-surface increase where floodway is not designated: <= 1 foot

    “A flood control development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any area of special flood hazard, areas of flood related erosion hazards or areas of mudslide (i.e., mudflow) established in section 9-10B-3 of this article.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction or development within Beaver County areas of special flood hazard, flood-related erosion hazards, or mudslide/mudflow hazards.
      “A flood control development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any area of special flood hazard”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals subject to Beaver County conditional-use permitting and standards.

    • The county short-term-rental application is a conditional-use permit application.
    • The application requires a state transient-room-tax identification number and current state transient-room-tax payments.
    • If the property is in an Agriculture District, owners within 500 feet must be notified by letter; the form states an additional fee of $2.50 per letter plus $18.00 per hour.
    • The form lists a $100 fee collected.
    • Short-term rentals must meet fire-extinguisher, smoke-detector, carbon-monoxide-detector, posted-map, parking, guest-information, and license-posting standards.
    • Parking must be provided on the subject property, although street parking immediately in front may be considered depending on street size and location.

    short-term rental application fee: 100 USD · Agriculture District notification radius: 500 feet · Agriculture District notification fee: 2.5 USD per letter · Agriculture District notification administration fee: 18 USD per hour

    “requests a Conditional Use Permit to: _____ Operate a Short-Term Rental _____ Operate a Bed & Breakfast”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit feesVariable

    Beaver County building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and roofing permits.

    • Electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and roofing permits are $75.75.
    • Building permit fees differ depending on the permit issued.
    • Residential dwelling permits for new homes and commercial building permits are based on square footage, including materials and labor.
    • Some inspections may require higher fees because of unforeseen circumstances or additional inspections.
    • Credit-card payments incur a bank processing fee.

    electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and roofing permit fee: 75.75 USD

    “Electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and roofing permits are $75.75. Building permit fees will differ depending on the permit that has been issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — Beaver County Building Department permits.
      “Electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and roofing permits are $75.75. Building permit fees will differ depending on the permit that has been issued. Residential dwelling permits (new homes) and commercial building permits are based on square footage of the structure, including materials and labor.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Building permits and conditional use permits administered under Beaver County regulations.

    • Construction, alteration, repair, or removal of a building or structure cannot begin until the building inspector issues the appropriate permit.
    • A new permit is required if work is not started within 180 days after permit issuance.
    • Before issuance of a building permit, the applicant must submit evidence of an approved culinary water supply and approved waste-disposal method, both approved in writing by the Southwest Utah Public Health Department.
    • Where a conditional use permit is required, it must be issued before a building permit or other county permit or license is issued.
    • Conditional-use applications are filed with the planning commission on county-provided forms and must include the listed application materials.

    permit start deadline: 180 days (If work is not started within this period, a new permit is required.)

    “If work is not started on a structure or building within one hundred eighty (180) days from issuance of a permit, a new permit will be required.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Construction, alteration, repair, movement, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work handled through Beaver County permitting.
      “Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Building permit application, plan review, payment, and inspection process for unincorporated Beaver County.
      “The Beaver County Building Department handles building permits and inspections for unincorporated Beaver County and provides contracted inspection services for Beaver City, Milford City, and Minersville Town. All inspections require at least 24 hours' advance notice.”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A sole owner of property building a residential structure for the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use in Beaver County, for contractor-licensure purposes.

    • The sole owner may build no more than one residential structure per year on the sole owner's property and no more than three residential structures per five years on the sole owner's property.
    • A person other than the property owner or another statutory exempt person who engages in building the residential structure must be licensed if otherwise required to be licensed.
    • Structures incidental to a residential structure, including a shed, carport, or detached garage, are included for the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.
    • A person constructing or renovating a residential building for noncommercial, nonpublic use may qualify when working without compensation other than token compensation and under the property owner's direction.
    • The exemption concerns contractor licensure and does not eliminate Beaver County building-permit, inspection, occupancy, zoning, health, or utility requirements.

    new residential structures per year: <= 1 structure (Sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.) · new residential structures per five years: <= 3 structures (Sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.) · token compensation: allowed only as defined by statute (Must be minimal compared with fair-market value, unrelated to fair-market value, and incidental to providing services.)

    “no more than one residential structure per year on the sole owner's property and no more than three residential structures per five years”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — A sole owner acting as an owner-builder for residential construction on the owner's property, concerning exemption from contractor licensure under the Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act; this does not by itself eliminate applicable building-permit, inspection, or code requirements.
      “a sole owner of property engaged in building: (i) no more than one residential structure per year on the sole owner's property and no more than three residential structures per five years on the sole owner's property for the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction of shallow water wells in Utah.

    • The owner must have a valid water right to beneficially use groundwater before construction.
    • A Start Card is issued upon approval of the water right and is described as essentially the permit to construct the well.
    • Shallow water wells must be constructed by a licensed well driller or licensed shallow water well constructor.
    • The licensee must obtain the Start Card and file it with the Division before constructing or working on the shallow water well.
    • The source does not establish the same Start Card mechanism for every other regulated-well category.
    “A Start Card is issued upon approval of the water right, which is essentially the permit to construct the well.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Water-well construction and use associated with property in Beaver County, Utah.
      “A shallow water well owner must have a valid water right to beneficially use groundwater from a shallow water well prior to well construction. [...] A Start Card is issued upon approval of the water right, which is essentially the permit to construct the well.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Wastewater drainage for dwellings, buildings, and premises covered by Utah's onsite wastewater rule.

    • Connection to a public sewer is required when available and practicable.
    • If public sewer is unavailable or impracticable, connection must be made to an adequate onsite wastewater system or another wastewater system acceptable under the listed Utah rules.
    • When a dwelling served by an onsite wastewater system connects to a public sewer, the septic tank must be abandoned and disconnected or bypassed unless otherwise approved by the regulatory authority.
    “shall have a connection to a public sewer”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Tiny houses in Utah RV parks; the state source also states that tiny-home permission in a particular area depends on local land-use regulations.

    • The tiny house may be allowed in an RV park only with the required data plate or permanent label and either Recreational Vehicle Industry Association certification or qualified third-party inspection certification.
    • The RV park must comply with applicable building, zoning, electrical, health, fire codes and local ordinances.
    • Outside RV parks, whether a tiny home is permitted depends on local land-use regulations and whether the structure is treated as a primary dwelling, accessory dwelling, modular unit, or manufactured home.

    maximum floor area for tiny house under Rule R392-301: <= 400 square feet (The rule defines tiny house for purposes of the rule; this does not establish statewide land-use permission outside RV parks.)

    “A recreational vehicle or a tiny house may be allowed in a recreational vehicle park only if:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Utah counties may enact land-use controls, including zoning ordinances, for land in unincorporated areas statewide.

    • The authority is subject to Utah Code Section 17-79-101(4) and Section 11-41-103.
    • The statutory grant expressly covers the unincorporated area of a county and a designated mountainous planning district.
    • The quoted provision lists uses, density, open spaces, structures, and buildings among the subjects of permissible land-use controls.
    “Subject to Subsection (4) and Section 11-41-103, to accomplish the purposes of this chapter, a county may enact all ordinances, resolutions, and rules and may enter into other forms of land use controls and development agreements that the county considers necessary or appropriate for the use and development of land within the unincorporated area of the county or a designated mountainous planning district”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Utah counties may adopt and enforce building regulations and require building permits for construction in unincorporated areas statewide.

    • The general county building-regulation authority applies outside the limits of cities and towns.
    • Local regulations may not conflict with general laws.
    • Under Utah Code Section 17-79-901, erecting, constructing, reconstructing, altering, or changing the use of a building or other structure within a county requires approval of a building permit.
    • A county may not issue a building permit unless the plans fully conform to regulations then in effect.
    • The county permit authority is subject to the State Construction and Fire Codes Act and other statutory limitations.
    “A county may make and enforce within the limits of the county, outside the limits of cities and towns, all local, police, building, and sanitary regulations that are not in conflict with general laws.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of a tiny home as a dwelling in unincorporated Beaver County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Water rights & wells in Beaver County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Utah’s water agency.

Closed to new supply

New water supply here generally requires a permit, an offset, or buying an existing right — a household well is not automatic.

Household wellPermit required — restricted

Utah has NO exempt domestic well — you must own a water right to drill any well, including a household well. In an open area you file a new appropriation, but because much of Utah is closed to new appropriation a newcomer typically must PURCHASE an existing water right and file a change application to move it to the new well.

Limit: ~0.45 acre-ft/yr indoor domestic (typical allocation); no statutory exempt-well quantity

Utah Division of Water Rights — FAQ ↗

Prior-appropriation state (first in time, first in right). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Utah state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Beaver County, Utah

Is Beaver County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Beaver County scores 50/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 737 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 12.7″ of rain a year, in severe drought 20.3% of years and 76.7% federal land exposure.

Do you need a building permit in Beaver County, Utah?

Beaver County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Southwest Utah Public Health Department. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Beaver County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Beaver County is allowed on a temporary basis only: Travel-trailer residential occupancy in Beaver County zoning districts, including property-owner temporary residence and approved travel-trailer parks. Residential use of a travel trailer is prohibited outside approved and licensed travel-trailer parks, except as otherwise provided. A property-owner temporary residence is limited to the agricultural, multiple use, residential estate, residential, forest/recreation residential, and multiple-family residential zoning districts. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Beaver County, Utah?

Land in Beaver County runs about $3,779 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Beaver County?

Beaver County gets about 12.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 20.3% of years. On water rights, Beaver County lies in the Sevier River Basin (closed to new groundwater since 1997) — Large central-Utah basin closed to new groundwater appropriations since 1997 (surface water since 1946); new development must acquire and change existing valid rights..

How remote is Beaver County?

A representative private-land location has about 737 people within a 30-minute drive and 158,643 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Beaver compares in Utah

Compare side-by-side →See all 29 Utah counties ranked →