Bolthole Index

Cache County, Utah

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

58Index Score / 100
#6 of 29 in Utah

Unincorporated Cache County, Utah requires a building permit for a home, issued by the county Building Department after a county Zoning Clearance12. Incorporated cities, including Logan, issue their own building permits and set their own zoning34. Where sewer is unavailable, septic permits come from the Bear River Health Department56.

At a glance

Building permit
Required in unincorporated county, issued by the county Building Department1
Zoning
Yes; a Zoning Clearance is required for any structure2
Septic permit
Bear River Health Department where sewer is unavailable; fees run $0 to $1,040 by permit type57
Owner-builder exemption
Up to 1 home a year, no more than 3 in five years, on your own property8
RV during construction
Allowed on the same lot as a home under construction, up to 180 days9
Agricultural buildings
Conditional exemption; agricultural-only use and a recorded non-conversion acknowledgement10
Permit fees
$75 primary-use or $30 accessory-use Zoning Clearance, plus project-based building fees11
Tiny home outside an RV park
Unconfirmed for Cache County; local land-use rules govern12

Who to call

Building permits

Cache County Building Department

Building permits and inspections for unincorporated Cache County; also the office that starts a Zoning Clearance application

(435) 755-1650

179 North Main St., Suite 305, Logan, UT 84321

Septic permits

Bear River Health Department, Environmental Health (Logan)

Septic (onsite wastewater) system permits and inspections for Cache County

(435) 792-6570

85 East 1800 North, Logan, UT 84341

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

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

Yes. Unincorporated Cache County requires a building permit for new homes, additions, sheds over 200 square feet, shops, garages, and commercial construction3. A one-story detached storage shed of 200 square feet or less, and a fence no taller than 7 feet, generally do not need one3. County-regulated construction follows the adopted building codes, including the 2021 residential code and current Utah amendments13. An agricultural building can qualify for an exemption only if it remains agricultural and nonresidential, with a recorded non-conversion acknowledgement; trade permits may still be required10. Cache County does not issue building permits inside Clarkston, Hyde Park, Lewiston, Mendon, Newton, Nibley, North Logan, or Logan City3.

Who is the Cache County building department, and how do you reach them?

Cache County's Building Department works at 179 North Main Street, Suite 305, Logan, Utah 8432114. Call (435) 755-1650 and press 1; the office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though permit pickup and payment end at 4:45 p.m.14. A Zoning Clearance comes before the building permit and can require a site plan, floor plans, elevations, and proof of culinary water and septic arrangements2. The published fee schedule lists $75 for primary-use Zoning Clearance and $30 for accessory-use clearance; building fees vary by project type, valuation, area, permit category, and review needs11.

Does Cache County have zoning?

Yes. Cache County requires a Zoning Clearance for any structure in the unincorporated county, including a house, accessory structure, agricultural building, swimming pool, or pump house15. The base districts are Rural 2, Rural 5, Agricultural, Forest Recreation, Commercial, Industrial, and Resort Recreation, with overlays adding possible restrictions16. Subdivision is also regulated: a proposed division must meet its base district's lot and development standards and proceed through the applicable county subdivision steps17. An agricultural subdivision is narrower; land must remain agricultural, and lots created through that process cannot support residential or commercial structures without completing a legal subdivision process18. Inside a city, ask that city about zoning4. Manufactured homes are allowed as single-family dwellings in unincorporated Cache County on a permanent foundation, at least 20 feet wide at the narrowest dimension, and listed as real property19. For accessory dwellings, one attached ADU is allowed per lot in the A10, RU2 and RUS zones, but detached ADUs are not allowed, the ADU may not exceed 1,200 square feet, and the owner must live on the property20.

How do septic permits work in Cache County?

Where sewer lines are unavailable, Bear River Health Department administers Cache County's onsite septic permits, while county requirements also call for compliance with Utah environmental and water authorities5. A permit is required before constructing, altering, or repairing a system, with design and location based on soil conditions, the site plan, and percolation results7. An onsite system can serve an off-grid home, but only through that permitting and site-review process6. Published charges include $200 per lot for feasibility evaluation, $800 for required water-table monitoring, $840 for a conventional permit, $1,040 for a commercial permit, $350 for alteration, and $0 for repair7. Only 0.6% of county soils lack severe conventional drain-field limitations, making site evaluation especially important before purchase21. The health department can approve a vault or earthen pit privy only case by case, in remote locations for temporary or limited use22. A new domestic well needs a water right and a Start Card from the Utah Division of Water Rights before construction, and shallow wells must be built by a licensed driller or licensed constructor23. Call the Logan Environmental Health office at (435) 792-657024.

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

Cache County allows a travel trailer or similar housing vehicle on the same lot as a single-family home under construction for up to 180 days9. A county campground is a different use: it needs at least 2 campsites, is limited to transient stays of 30 days or less, and is conditional only in the Forest Recreation, Resort Recreation, and Commercial zones25. The campground rule does not establish a right to live in one RV on vacant private land. Utah's RV-park rule likewise governs parks, not that single-parcel question26. A mobile home, recreational vehicle or shipping container cannot serve as an ADU20. We could not confirm whether a tiny home is a permitted dwelling on ordinary unincorporated land; ask Cache County's Building Department before relying on one as a residence14.

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

  1. Confirm whether the parcel is in unincorporated Cache County or a city, because cities issue their own permits3.
  2. Confirm that the parcel is legal and buildable; an agricultural-subdivision lot cannot carry a residence without a legal subdivision process18.
  3. Apply for Zoning Clearance with the required site, building, water, and sewage documents2.
  4. If sewer is unavailable, obtain Bear River Health Department approval before installing septic56.
  5. Apply for the building permit through the Cache County Building Department14.
  6. If acting as owner-builder, confirm the home is for your noncommercial, nonpublic use and that everyone doing licensed-trade work is properly licensed; the exemption allows no more than 1 home per year or 3 in five years8. The statute moves to a new section in 2027 without changing those limits27.
  7. Schedule inspections at least 24 hours ahead; bring the signed Public Works and Fire District checklist to the final inspection2829.
  8. Do not move in until the building official issues the certificate of occupancy; the county code requires one for use or occupancy of regulated buildings3031.

What to check before you buy land in Cache County

Start with parcel jurisdiction, zoning, and legal lot status; unincorporated subdivisions must meet county standards, while agricultural-subdivision lots cannot be used for residential or commercial construction1718. Only 32% of county land has a slope of 15% or less, and 38.8% is federal land, so verify usable area and legal access rather than relying on acreage alone3233. Just 0.6% of soils lack severe limits for conventional septic drain fields, so make the site evaluation a purchase contingency where sewer is unavailable21. Confirm the culinary-water right and sewage plan required for Zoning Clearance2. A driveway connecting to a state highway needs a Utah conditional access permit34. Published county charges also include $50 for minor encroachment, $750 for major encroachment, and $25 for a floodplain permit11.

Watch-outs

  • Cache County does not issue building permits inside Clarkston, Hyde Park, Lewiston, Mendon, Newton, Nibley, North Logan, or Logan City; confirm which government has jurisdiction over your parcel before you call the county3.
  • We could not confirm from an accessible Cache County page whether short-term rentals, tiny-home occupancy outside an RV park, or a countywide minimum dwelling size are allowed, limited, or set at all; ask the Building Department directly before you assume an answer14.

Sources

  1. Cache County Building Department (2026 county census)
  2. Build a House, Accessory or Agricultural Building, Etc. (2026 county census)
  3. cachecounty.gov, quoted and re-checked
  4. cachecounty.gov, quoted and re-checked
  5. Environmental Health - Bear River Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  6. Environmental Health - Bear River Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  7. Environmental Health - Bear River Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  8. Utah Code Title 58, Chapter 55, quoted and re-checked
  9. Cache County Code of Ordinances, Title 17 Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  10. Build a House, Accessory or Agricultural Building, Etc., quoted and re-checked
  11. Building Permit Fees for Cache County Building Division, quoted and re-checked
  12. OPRO Accessory Dwellings (ADU's) and other dwelling types (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Cache County Code, Title 15 Buildings and Construction, quoted and re-checked
  14. Cache County Building Department (cachecounty.gov)
  15. Build a House, Accessory or Agricultural Building, Etc., quoted and re-checked
  16. Cache County Code, quoted and re-checked
  17. Cache County Code, Titles 16 and 17, quoted and re-checked
  18. Cache County Code, Titles 16 and 17, quoted and re-checked
  19. Cache County Code, Title 17 Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  20. Ordinance 2023-25, ADU Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  21. 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
  22. Utah Administrative Code R317-560, Rules for the Design, Construction, and Maintenance of Vault Privies and Earthen Pit Privies, quoted and re-checked
  23. Water Well Drilling Information, quoted and re-checked
  24. Bear River Health Department, Environmental Health (Logan) (brhdut.gov)
  25. Cache County Code of Ordinances, Title 17 Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  26. Utah Administrative Code Rule R392-301, Recreational Vehicle Parks (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Utah Code Title 58, Chapter 55, Section 58-55-305, quoted and re-checked
  28. Building Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  29. Building Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  30. Cache County Code, quoted and re-checked
  31. Cache County Code, Title 15, quoted and re-checked
  32. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  33. Federal land share: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 10, 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, Cache County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleCache CountyRich CountyWeber CountyMorgan CountyDavis CountyBox Elder CountySalt Lake County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsBear River Health Dept.Bear River Health Dept.Weber-Morgan Health Dept.Weber-Morgan Health Dept.County Health Dept.Bear River Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Cache County in Utah

58
County map
Cache County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Cache County scores

Seclusion46100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency44100% ev.
Admin Boringness39100% ev.
Durability66100% ev.
Property Autonomy60100% ev.
Carry Cost67100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$477kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$7,620Land / acre
28.6"Annual rain
17.9% of yrsSevere drought
1.9 / yr (+1.8)Mid-century 100°F days
27.7 daysMid-century dry spell
1.38" (+6.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.17×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,054Home insurance / yr
5.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.48%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
73,958People within 30 min
2,457,757People within 2 hr
62,591Radius comparison (15 mi)
122.3People / sq mi
38.8%Federal land
32%Land at 15% slope or less
0.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
4,052 acWorkable land screen
48%Wooded land
26.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
44.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Cache 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: Town of Amalga · Town of Cornish · Hyde Park · Hyrum · Mendon · Millville · Town of Newton · North Logan · Town of Paradise · Providence · River Heights · Smithfield · Town of Trenton

Answers from the rulebook for Cache County

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

Cache County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New homes, additions, sheds over 200 square feet, shops, garages, commercial construction, and other regulated construction in unincorporated Cache County.

    • A zoning clearance is part of the process before applying for a building permit.
    • A permit may be required for remodeling work; applicants must check with the Building Department.
    • Agricultural buildings may qualify for an exception, but a building permit is required if electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work is added, or if the structure will be used outside agriculture.
    • Detached one-story storage sheds not exceeding 200 square feet and fences not exceeding 7 feet may not require a building permit.
    • Incorporated cities may issue their own permits; Cache County states that it does not issue permits for Clarkston, Hyde Park, Lewiston, Mendon, Newton, Nibley, North Logan, or Logan City.

    detached storage shed floor area: > 200 sq ft (One-story detached storage sheds not exceeding 200 square feet may not require a permit.) · fence height: <= 7 ft (Fences not exceeding 7 feet tall may not require a permit.)

    “A permit is required for all new homes, additions to existing homes, sheds exceeding 200 square feet, shops, garages, and all commercial construction.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building construction regulated by Cache County, including the county's unincorporated jurisdiction.

    • Cache County Code Title 15 states that the most current versions are automatically adopted.
    • The adopted codes include Utah legislative amendments and specified appendices.
    • The ordinance states its adoption date was May 24, 2011, with an effective date of June 4, 2011.
    • The current Cache County building page lists the codes followed as 2024 IBC, 2021 IRC, 2024 IPC, 2024 IMC, 2024 IFGC, 2024 IECC, and 2023 NEC.
    • The current page states that the 2021 IRC and 2021 IECC residential codes encompass the listed codes and apply to dwellings up to a duplex-type house; residences requiring special engineering or special features may require a different code on a case-by-case basis.

    international building code: 2024 IBC (with amendments adopted by the Utah Legislature) · international residential code: 2021 IRC (with amendments adopted by the Utah Legislature) · plumbing code: 2024 IPC (with amendments adopted by the Utah Legislature) · mechanical code: 2024 IMC (with amendments adopted by the Utah Legislature) · fuel gas code: 2024 IFGC (with amendments adopted by the Utah Legislature) · energy conservation code: 2024 IECC (with amendments adopted by the Utah Legislature) · electrical code: 2023 NEC (with amendments adopted by the Utah Legislature)

    “In order to promote the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Cache County, the most current version of the following codes are automatically adopted:”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Most construction and typical single-family residences subject to Cache County building permits.

    • Inspections must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance, with a 4:00 PM prior-business-day cutoff; same-day inspections are not allowed.
    • Inspections cannot be made until the permit has been paid for, and projects must be ready by 8:00 AM.
    • A $75 re-inspection fee may be assessed when inspectors arrive and the site is not ready, payable before the next inspection.
    • The typical single-family inspection sequence includes footings, foundation, underground plumbing, permanent power clearance, rough plumbing, rough framing, rough mechanical, rough electrical, and final inspection.
    • Final inspection occurs after completion and before occupancy.
    • For structures built within unincorporated Cache County, a Public Works and Fire District Pre-Occupancy Checklist has been required since 2022-01-01 and must be provided at final inspection.

    advance scheduling: >= 24 hours (same-day inspections are not allowed) · re-inspection fee: 75 USD (may apply when the site is not ready)

    “Several inspections are required on most construction. A general rule is to call for an inspection before you cover anything up.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Most construction, including typical single-family residences, in unincorporated Cache County.
      “Several inspections are required on most construction.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Use or occupancy of buildings and structures regulated by the Cache County Building Code in unincorporated Cache County.

    • The certificate must be issued by the chief building official or the official’s designee before use or occupancy.
    • The ordinance was adopted by Ordinance 2011-04 on 2011-05-24 and became effective 2011-06-04.
    • Cache County’s building application states that owners may not move in before receiving the certificate of occupancy.
    • A signed Public Works/Fire District pre-occupancy checklist is required at final inspection for all residential structures and some accessory structures when noted on the zoning clearance.
    “No building or structure shall be used or occupied until a certificate of occupancy shall have been issued by the chief building official [...]”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Use or occupancy of a building or structure regulated by the Cache County Building Official.
      “No building or structure shall be used or occupied until a certificate of occupancy shall have been issued”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning regulation and zoning-clearance requirements for structures in unincorporated Cache County.

    • The source limits this county requirement to the unincorporated part of Cache County.
    • A zoning-clearance application may require an application, site plan, floor plans, elevations, proof of culinary water right, septic system, and other applicable documents.
    • The source states the requirement applies to any type of structure, including single-family dwellings, accessory structures, agricultural buildings, swimming pools, and pump houses.
    “When building any type of structure within the unincorporated part of the county, you will need to apply for a Zoning Clearance.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local zoning across Cache County, including county zoning for unincorporated areas and municipal zoning within incorporated cities.

    • The county source directs applicants to contact their city for zoning information for property within a city.
    • For unincorporated county areas, Cache County Planning and Zoning determines parcel legality and applicable zoning restrictions.
    • This aggregate conclusion does not claim that Cache County administers zoning inside every incorporated municipality.
    “Contact your city for zoning information. For land in unincorporated county areas, the Planning and Zoning Department can help you determine parcel legality and any zoning restrictions that may apply to your property.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Base and overlay zoning districts administered under the Cache County zoning ordinance for unincorporated Cache County.

    • The zoning chapter states that its provisions are supplemented by other regulations applying to particular uses, development types, and zoning districts.
    • The listed base districts are Rural 2 (RU2), Rural 5 (RU5), Agricultural (A10), Forest Recreation (FR40), Commercial (C), Industrial (I), and Resort Recreation (RR).
    • Overlay districts may alter, restrict, or allow specific development regulations on all or part of a parcel.
    • The cited ordinance text states an effective date of April 9, 2014 for the general zoning-district chapter; later amendments may apply.
    “The following are the base zoning districts: Rural 2 (RU2) Rural 5 (RU5) Agricultural (A10) Forest recreation (FR40) Commercial (C) Industrial (I) Resort recreation (RR)”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    A travel trailer or similar vehicle used for housing on the same lot as a single-family dwelling under construction in unincorporated Cache County.

    • The lot must also contain a single-family dwelling that is under construction.
    • The placement is limited to up to 180 days.

    maximum placement period: <= 180 days

    “A travel trailer or similar vehicle, to be used for housing, may be placed on the same lot as a single family dwelling that is under construction for up to one hundred eighty (180) days.”
  • Camping on your landAllowed (with conditions)

    Temporary camping in a Cache County campground use involving recreational vehicles, motor homes, mobile trailers, or tents.

    • The campground must be in the FR40, RR, or C zoning district.
    • The campground must have 2 or more campsites.
    • Occupancy is for transients and must be for 30 days or less.
    • Water and sewage facilities must comply with State requirements.
    • The zoning schedule marks Campground as a conditional use (C) in FR40, RR, and C; it is marked prohibited (N) in RU2, RU5, A10, and I.

    minimum campsites: >= 2 campsites · maximum duration of stay: <= 30 days

    “CAMPGROUND: Any area with 2 or more campsites in the FR40, RR or C zones that are improved for occupancy by transients using recreational vehicles, motor homes, mobile trailers, or tents for dwelling, lodging, or sleeping purposes with a duration of state for a period of 30 days or less. Water and sewage facilities shall comply with State requirements (see § 17-10.040.3.a.).”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes used as single-family dwellings in unincorporated Cache County.

    • The home must be used as a single-family dwelling and only one dwelling unit is allowed per legal lot or parcel, except for a single accessory apartment.
    • The structure must be on a permanent foundation.
    • The home must be at least twenty feet wide at its narrowest dimension.
    • Exterior and roofing materials must conform to adopted building codes.
    • The minimum roof pitch is 2:12.
    • The home must be connected to required plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical utilities.
    • The manufactured home must be identified as real property on Cache County property assessment rolls.
    • Manufactured homes constructed on or after June 15, 1976 must have the manufacturer's data plate and a HUD label certifying manufacture to HUD standards.
    • Other applicable zoning, building, safety, utility, health, and floodplain requirements may apply.

    minimum width: >= 20 feet (at the narrowest dimension) · minimum roof pitch: >= 2:12 · construction date for HUD-label requirement: >= 1976-06-15

    “MANUFACTURED HOME: A transportable, factory built housing unit constructed on or after June 15, 1976.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units in the A10, RU2, and the ordinance's visibly printed RUS zones of unincorporated Cache County.

    • Only one ADU of any type is allowed per legal lot or parcel in the A10, RU2 or RUS zones; the ordinance text visibly says RUS, and this record does not substitute RU5 by inference.
    • The ADU or primary dwelling must be rented for 30 consecutive days or longer by the same occupant; short-term rentals are prohibited.
    • The primary dwelling or ADU must remain owner occupied, except for a bona fide temporary absence of three years or less for activities such as military service, temporary job assignments, sabbaticals, or voluntary service.
    • Mobile homes, recreational vehicles, and shipping containers cannot be used as ADUs.
    • The primary dwelling and ADU may not be sold or conveyed separately, and no additional parcel or lot may be created for an ADU.
    • Before zoning-clearance approval, the owner must record a County ADU Acknowledgment form as a deed restriction; the language and format are drafted by the County Attorney.
    • Internal ADUs must be within the footprint of the primary dwelling; there is no maximum size or bedroom limit for an internal ADU under the cited state-code provision, subject to other design requirements.
    • Attached ADUs may have no more than two bedrooms, must be less than 50 percent of the primary residence's total square footage, and may not exceed 1,200 square feet.
    • Detached ADUs are not allowed.
    • Attached ADUs generally must share a common wall and roof with the primary dwelling for at least 20 linear feet and include an internal connection, although an administrative exception may be granted for less than 20 feet for the full width of a shared exterior wall elevation.
    • Exterior entrances must be on the side or rear; attached ADUs are limited to two stories; ADUs must be built on a permanent foundation.
    • A zoning clearance must be approved before applying for a building permit, with floor plans and elevations.
    • Approval is also required from the Bear River Health Department, Utah Division of Water Rights, County Development Services, Public Works, and Fire Departments for sanitation, water, drainage, and applicable health requirements; all applicable land-use, building, and safety codes apply.
    • Occupancy of a new accessory or primary dwelling unit may begin no sooner than issuance of a certificate of occupancy after final construction and building-permit inspection.
    • The ordinance amendments take effect no sooner than 15 days from the date of approval.

    ADUs per legal lot or parcel: <= 1 (A10, RU2, or the ordinance's visibly printed RUS zone) · minimum rental term: >= 30 consecutive days (same occupant) · maximum owner temporary absence: <= 3 years (bona fide temporary absence for listed activities) · attached ADU bedrooms: <= 2 bedrooms · attached ADU area: < 50 percent of primary residence square footage (and not more than 1,200 square feet) · attached ADU maximum area: <= 1200 square feet · shared wall and roof: >= 20 linear feet (administrative exception may allow less than 20 feet for the full width of a shared exterior wall elevation) · attached ADU maximum height: <= 2 stories

    “Only one ADU of any type is allowed per legal lot or parcel in the A10, RU2 or RUS zones.”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Septic and onsite wastewater permitting and feasibility review for Cache County.

    • Bear River Health Department is the local health department serving Cache County.
    • The subdivision feasibility instructions identify Cache County as part of the Bear River Health Department service area.
    “The Bear River Health department administers and grants septic feasibility in Cache, Box Elder, and Rich counties.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Septic and onsite wastewater systems in Cache County served by the Bear River Health Department.
      “A septic permit is a legal document required by Bear River Health Department before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system in Cache County where sewer lines are not available.

    • A septic permit is required before construction, alteration, or repair.
    • The system must meet design and location standards based on soil conditions, site plan, and soil percolation test results.
    • Listed fees are $200 per lot for site evaluation feasibility, $800 for water table monitoring, $840 for a conventional septic system permit, $1,040 for a commercial septic system, $350 for an alteration septic system permit, and $0 for a repair septic system permit.

    lot site evaluation feasibility fee: 200 USD/lot · water table monitoring fee: 800 USD · conventional septic system permit fee: 840 USD (Includes $800 permit fee plus $40 Utah Department of Environmental Quality fee) · commercial septic system permit fee: 1040 USD (Includes $1,000 permit fee plus $40 Utah Department of Environmental Quality fee) · alteration septic system permit fee: 350 USD · repair septic system permit fee: 0 USD

    “A septic permit is a legal document required by Bear River Health Department before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system in Cache County where sewer lines are unavailable.
      “A septic permit is a legal document required by Bear River Health Department before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system on a property where sewer lines are not available.”
  • Off-grid sanitationAllowed (with conditions)

    Use of an onsite septic system for residential wastewater treatment and disposal in Cache County where sewer lines are unavailable.

    • A Bear River Health Department septic permit is required before constructing, altering, or repairing the system.
    • The system must satisfy design and location standards based on soil conditions, site plan, and soil percolation test results.
    • Cache County ordinance material also requires compliance with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality and the Office of the State Water Engineer.
    “The permit allows the homeowner to install a system to treat and dispose of wastewater from their home”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural buildings in unincorporated Cache County

    • The building must be used solely in conjunction with agriculture and not for human occupancy, or qualify under the stated 1,500-square-foot sales provision.
    • Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may be required.
    • The exemption does not apply, unless another exemption applies, to structures within a city or town on less than five contiguous acres or within a county-approved subdivision on less than two contiguous acres, subject to the agricultural-protection-area exception stated in the source.
    • The agricultural building must not be converted to residential, commercial, or non-agricultural use.
    • Cache County requires an Agricultural Exemption and Non-Conversion Acknowledgement; the document is recorded with the County Recorder.

    sales-structure maximum area: <= 1500 square feet (Must be used solely for the type of sales described in Utah Code 59-12-104(20).) · city/town acreage threshold: < 5 contiguous acres (No exemption unless located in an agricultural protection area or another exemption applies.) · county-approved subdivision acreage threshold: < 2 contiguous acres (No exemption unless located in an agricultural protection area or another exemption applies.)

    “a structure used solely in conjunction with agriculture use, and not for human occupancy [...] is exempt from the requirements of the State Construction Code.”
  • Subdividing landLimited

    Agricultural parcels undergoing the agricultural subdivision process in unincorporated Cache County

    • The lot must qualify as land in agricultural use under Utah Code 59-2-5.
    • The lot must meet applicable minimum size requirements.
    • The lot must not be used and must not be intended for any nonagricultural purpose.
    • Lots created through this process may obtain clearance for agricultural buildings but may not construct residential or commercial structures.
    • Nonagricultural development requires a legal subdivision from the most recent legal parcel size and configuration before permits are issued.
    • Parent-parcel requirements, conditions, stipulations, and restrictions continue to apply unless specifically cleared by the Director of Development Services or Planning Commission with findings of fact.
    “Lots having been subdivided by this process [...] shall not be permitted to construct residential or commercial structures.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in unincorporated Cache County
      “This title shall govern and apply to the subdivision, platting and recording of all lands lying within the unincorporated area of Cache County, Utah.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Building, land-use, encroachment, and floodplain permit fees administered by Cache County Development Services in unincorporated Cache County.

    • The building fee schedule was adopted on November 6, 2024 as Ordinance 2024-18.
    • Fees vary by project type, valuation, square footage, permit category, and plan-review requirements.
    • Additional fees may be assessed for external consulting or engineering review.
    • The land-use schedule lists $75 for a primary-use zoning clearance, $30 for an accessory-use zoning clearance, $50 for a minor encroachment permit, $750 for a major encroachment permit including a $500 deposit, and $25 for a floodplain permit.

    primary-use zoning clearance fee: 75 USD · accessory-use zoning clearance fee: 30 USD · floodplain permit fee: 25 USD · minor encroachment permit fee: 50 USD · major encroachment permit fee: 750 USD (Includes $250 fee plus $500 deposit)

    “Zoning Clearance - Primary Use $75 Zoning Clearance - Accessory Use $30 [...] Minor Encroachment Permit $50 Major Encroachment Permit $750 ($250 fee + $500 deposit) Floodplain Permit $25”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building and related permit processing for structures in unincorporated Cache County.

    • The county process directs applicants to obtain zoning clearance first and then apply for a building permit.
    • A building permit is required for all new homes, additions to existing homes, sheds exceeding 200 square feet, shops, garages, and all commercial construction.
    • Agricultural buildings should be confirmed with the Zoning or Building Department first.
    • Detached one-story storage sheds not exceeding 200 square feet and fences not exceeding 7 feet may not require a building permit.
    • In unincorporated county areas, rooftop solar panels and ground pedestal solar panels do not need zoning clearance but do need a building permit.
    • Residential applications are submitted digitally with the required application, approved zoning clearance and site plan, applicable Manual J&D form, plans, Owner/Builder Certification when applicable, and REScheck.
    • Incomplete applications are not accepted; average approval normally requires 3-10 working days, larger commercial projects 30-45 working days; after payment, work must begin within 180 days.

    detached storage shed floor area threshold: <= 200 sq ft (One-story detached storage sheds not exceeding this area may not require a building permit.) · fence height threshold: <= 7 ft (Fences not exceeding this height may not require a building permit.) · average approval time: 3-10 working days (Larger commercial projects may require 30-45 working days.) · permit commencement deadline: 180 days (The permit expires if work has not commenced within 180 days after payment, or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days.)

    “The following are the steps to following when building in the unincorporated part of Cache County: Step 1: Apply for a Zoning Clearance (go to Planning and Zoning or Development Services on this county site) Step 2: Apply for a Building Permit”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner-builders and related construction-trade work under Utah Code §58-55-305 as repealed and reenacted by Chapter 42, 2026 General Session, effective/renumbered 1/1/2027.

    • The sole owner may build no more than one residential structure per year and no more than three residential structures per five years on the sole owner's property for noncommercial, nonpublic use.
    • The owner-builder exemption also covers structures incidental to a residential structure, including a shed, carport, or detached garage.
    • A person other than the property owner or a person described in Subsection (1)(e) who engages in building a residential structure must be licensed if otherwise required to be licensed.
    • Volunteers on noncommercial, nonpublic residential buildings must work without compensation other than token compensation and under the property owner's direction.
    • For projects under the separate less-than-$7,000 exemption, plumbing and electrical system work must be performed by licensed electrical or plumbing contractors; gas appliances or combustion systems require certification under §58-55-308; water-based fire protection requires a licensed fire suppression systems contractor or licensed journeyman plumber; alarm work requires licensed alarm personnel; HVAC work must be performed by an HVAC contractor licensed by the division; radon or soil-depressurization work must be performed by a licensed contractor.
    • For a project under the less-than-$7,000 exemption with total value greater than $3,000, the person must file a one-time affirmation concerning public-liability insurance and, if applicable, workers' compensation insurance.

    residential structures per year: <= 1 structure (sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use) · residential structures per five years: <= 3 structures (sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use) · less-than-$7,000 project threshold: < 7000 USD (separate exemption with trade-specific limitations) · insurance affirmation threshold: > 3000 USD (applies to the separate less-than-$7,000 project exemption)

    “Renumbered 1/1/2027 58-55-305 Exemptions from licensure. [...] no more than one residential structure per year [...] and no more than three residential structures per five years”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — A sole owner of property in Cache County, Utah, acting under Utah's statewide construction-trade licensure exemptions.
      “no more than one residential structure per year [...] and no more than three residential structures per five years [...] noncommercial, nonpublic use”
    • 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”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Large Underground Wastewater Systems (LUWDS) operating under Utah operating permits.

    • The annual inspection-report requirement applies to LUWDS operating permits.
    • The report is due August 1st of every year.
    • The source does not establish that the same annual inspection requirement applies to every residential or small onsite wastewater system.

    inspection report frequency: annual · annual inspection report due date: August 1

    “All Large Underground Wastewater Systems (LUWDS) have a responsibility under their Operating Permits to submit an Annual Inspection Report, due August 1st of every year.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Water production wells, including domestic wells, and regulated non-production wells in Cache County, Utah; the statewide Utah Division of Water Rights well-construction authorization applies in Cache County.

    • A shallow water well owner must have a valid water right before well construction; approval of the water right results in a Start Card, which the official page describes 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.
    • A shallow water well constructor cannot construct or work on water wells deeper than 30 feet.
    • A well owner may drill the owner's own shallow water well only if the owner has a valid water right and obtains a shallow water well constructor license.
    • Licensees must obtain the Start Card from the well owner and file it with the Division before constructing or working on a shallow water well.
    • Regulated well activities include construction, renovation, deepening, abandonment, and pump work, and the licensee must submit the applicable well, pump, or abandonment log after completion.
    • Pump installation or repair on wells regulated by the State Engineer must be performed by a Utah licensed well driller or licensed pump installer, except that a person installing or repairing a pump on the person's own property for the person's own use is not required to obtain a pump-installation license.
    • A person performing electrical repairs on a well pump is not required to obtain the well-driller license under Utah Code § 73-3-25.
    • The State Engineer's shallow-well regulation change took effect May 10, 2022, and the revised administrative rules became effective July 22, 2022.

    shallow-water-well depth limit for shallow-water-well constructor: <= 30 feet (A shallow water well constructor cannot construct or work on water wells deeper than 30 feet.) · well driller report deadline: 30 days (Utah Code § 73-3-25(5)(a) requires the report within 30 days after completion or abandonment of the well drilling.)

    “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 — Construction of shallow water wells in Utah.
      “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”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway or local-street connections to Utah state highways and changes in land use or access intensity along state highways.

    • The rule applies along a state highway.
    • A conditional access permit is required whenever a driveway or local street connection is requested.
    • A conditional access permit is also required for a change in land use or a change in the intensity of existing access.
    • The application process includes a pre-application meeting, a complete application packet, a non-refundable review fee, and UDOT technical review.
    “A conditional access permit is required when any of the following is true along a state highway: Whenever a driveway or local street connection is requested. When there is a change in land use (e.g. change in zoning, site plan, or conditional use). When there is a change in intensity of an existing access.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals operated within Utah municipalities.

    • A municipality may require the owner or lessee to obtain a business license or other permit before operation.
    • A municipality may regulate short-term rentals through municipal ordinances and zoning requirements.
    • A municipality may not enact or enforce an ordinance prohibiting an individual from listing or offering a short-term rental on a short-term-rental website.
    • A municipality may not use an ordinance prohibiting the act of renting a short-term rental to punish an individual solely for listing or offering it on a short-term-rental website.
    • The statute does not establish that short-term rentals are allowed in every zone or municipality.
    “A municipality may adopt an ordinance requiring the owner or lessee of a short-term rental to obtain a business license or other permit from the municipality before operating a short-term rental within the municipality.”
  • 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.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size for residential structures in unincorporated Cache County.
  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of a tiny home on private land in unincorporated Cache 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 Cache 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 ↗
  • Groundwater Management Plan valleys (Cache, Tooele, Salt Lake, Utah, Juab, Pahvant, Snyderville, Sand Hollow, Weber Delta)majority of county

    Populated valleys managed under groundwater management plans that protect existing rights and cap withdrawals; new groundwater use requires acquiring and changing existing water rights rather than new appropriation.

    Utah Division of Water Rights — Groundwater Management Plans ↗

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 Cache County, Utah

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

Cache County scores 58/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Cache County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Bear River Health Department (serving Cache, Box Elder, and Rich counties, under Utah DEQ). 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 Cache County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Cache County is allowed on a temporary basis only: A travel trailer or similar vehicle used for housing on the same lot as a single-family dwelling under construction in unincorporated Cache County. The lot must also contain a single-family dwelling that is under construction. The placement is limited to up to 180 days. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Cache County, Utah?

Land in Cache County runs about $7,620 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Cache County?

Cache County gets about 28.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 17.9% of years. On water rights, Cache County lies in the Groundwater Management Plan valleys (Cache, Tooele, Salt Lake, Utah, Juab, Pahvant, Snyderville, Sand Hollow, Weber Delta) — Populated valleys managed under groundwater management plans that protect existing rights and cap withdrawals; new groundwater use requires acquiring and changing existing water rights rather than new appropriation..

How remote is Cache County?

A representative private-land location has about 73,958 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,457,757 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 Cache compares in Utah

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