Bolthole Index

Daggett County, Utah

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

54Index Score / 100
#9 of 29 in Utah

Unincorporated Daggett County, Utah requires a building permit before most construction, alteration, repair, demolition or mobile-home setup begins.1 County zoning also applies, and TriCounty Health Department handles onsite wastewater permits.23 Start with Daggett County Planning & Zoning for the application and parcel-specific rules.4

At a glance

Building permit
Required for most work in unincorporated Daggett County1
Application deposit
$600 for a dwelling; $200 for an accessory building5
Zoning
County zoning applies; dimensional rules vary by district26
Septic
TriCounty Health reviews plans and issues construction permits37
RV living
Permanent living in an RV is generally prohibited outside authorized settings8
Owner-builder
A limited license exemption is available, but permits still apply9
Minimum home size
Permanent tiny homes generally follow district dwelling standards10
Manufactured home
HUD-code homes may be placed in residential zones with a building permit11

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Daggett County Planning & Zoning

Building-permit applications and county planning and zoning

435-784-3218 ext. 230

95 N 1st W, PO Box 387, Manila, UT 84046

Septic permits

TriCounty Health Department Environmental Health

Wastewater and septic system plan review, construction permits and inspections

(435) 247-1177

vernal@tricountyhealth.com

133 South 500 East, Vernal, UT, 84078

Roads & driveways

Daggett County Road Department

County road maintenance questions

435-784-3208

RoadDepartment@daggettcounty.gov

Airport Road, PO Box 219, Manila, UT 84046

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

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

Yes. In unincorporated Daggett County, a written application and formal permit are required before constructing, altering, repairing, improving, removing or demolishing a structure, or setting up a mobile home.1 Detached accessory buildings smaller than 200 square feet are exempt, while agricultural buildings used only for agriculture and not for human occupancy follow a separate exemption.1213 Plumbing, electrical or mechanical work in an otherwise exempt agricultural building can still require permits.13

Daggett County has adopted building, plumbing, electrical and energy codes for its unincorporated area.14 Permit fees vary with the current International Building Code fee basis, and the county requires a nonrefundable deposit of $600 for a dwelling or $200 for an accessory-building application.155

Who issues building permits in Daggett County?

Daggett County Planning & Zoning provides building-permit applications through its courthouse office.16 The county can mail the application and related forms to applicants who contact that office; Manila town requirements go through the Manila Town Office.4 For unincorporated land, submit a written application with duplicate scaled plans showing enough property, use, dimensional, utility and wastewater information for review.12

The building inspector approves a compliant application or rejects it with the finding attached.12 A permit expires if work does not begin within 180 days, and the applicant must give at least 24 hours' written or electronic notice before starting.12 Residential structures and additions are inspected during construction: the permit holder contacts the building inspector with at least 24 hours' notice, an approved inspection is needed every 180 days or the permit expires, and a final inspection comes before occupancy.17 Owner-builders attach a notarized Owner Builder Certification to the building permit application; Utah's limited owner-builder license exemption does not replace the county permit.189

Does Daggett County have zoning?

Yes. Daggett County divides unincorporated land into zoning districts and applies land-development standards.2 The published code contains 25 district designations, so identify the exact district before judging a proposed use.19 Minimum lot area ranges from 20 to 160 acres in agricultural and multiple-use districts, from 0.5 to 10 acres in rural-residential districts, and from 6,000 to 40,000 square feet in residential districts.6

Single-family homes outside agricultural and multiple-use zones generally need at least 800 square feet.20 In the agricultural and multiple-use districts, main buildings need a 60-foot front yard and a 60-foot rear yard, and a dwelling needs a 60-foot side yard; the rural-residential districts use smaller setbacks.21 Height and lot coverage also vary by district.2223 In the Dutch John town site, a certificate of occupancy is required before a new or altered structure or premises may be occupied.24

How do septic permits work in Daggett County?

TriCounty Health Department is the onsite-wastewater authority serving Daggett County.3 The department reviews system plans, issues construction permits and inspects installations.3 Separate applications may apply to a new wastewater system, drainfield work or septic-tank replacement.7

Utah requires connection to public sewer when connection is available and practicable; otherwise, wastewater must go to an adequate onsite or other acceptable system.25 Only 30% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so make site approval an early purchase contingency.26 TriCounty Health also accepts inspection requests for existing wastewater systems and wells.27

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Daggett County?

Daggett County generally prohibits using an RV, camping trailer, truck camper or motor home for permanent living, sleeping or housekeeping outside authorized parks or another zoning-code allowance.8 Ask Planning & Zoning how that rule applies to a construction stay or proposed temporary use.16

A manufactured home built under the federal HUD Code on or after June 15, 1976, with its data plate and HUD label, may be placed in any residential zone, and still needs a building permit.11

A permanent tiny home treated as a single-family dwelling needs a residential building permit, zoning and setback approval, approved water and wastewater documentation, and a final inspection before occupancy.10 Outside agricultural and multiple-use zones, that dwelling must have at least 800 square feet and measure at least 20 feet on every side.10 A tiny home on wheels is not affirmatively authorized as a dwelling, so ask Planning & Zoning to classify it before buying or building.10 We could not confirm Daggett County's currently operative accessory-dwelling rules; ask Planning & Zoning before designing an internal or detached unit.16

Building a home in Daggett County: what are the steps?

  1. Ask Planning & Zoning to identify the parcel's jurisdiction, district and allowed use.162
  2. Confirm at least 20 feet of street or permanent-easement frontage.12
  3. If access affects a county-road right-of-way, apply for the $50 county driveway permit.28
  4. If public sewer is unavailable or impracticable, obtain TriCounty Health's onsite-wastewater approval.257
  5. Submit the written application, duplicate scaled plans and applicable deposit.125
  6. Obtain the permit, then give at least 24 hours' notice before starting work.112
  7. Call the building inspector for each inspection stage, including the final inspection before occupancy, and obtain a certificate of occupancy if the property is in Dutch John.1724

What should you check before buying land in Daggett County?

Confirm the zoning district because lot size, coverage, height and dwelling-size rules vary across unincorporated Daggett County.262322 Confirm the parcel was lawfully subdivided and recorded, because a division recorded without the required approvals is void for building-permit purposes.29 Check frontage and whether a driveway will affect a county right-of-way or connect to a state highway.122830

Make septic feasibility a contract contingency because only 30% of mapped soils avoid a severe conventional-drain-field limitation.26 For flood-prone property, the county may require elevations and grading plans that reduce flood damage.31 A short-term rental needs a conditional-use permit application, business-license information, inspections and health approvals when applicable.32 If its site plan does not show direct access to a public street, notarized temporary access easements are required from affected owners.33 Daggett County is 84.1% federal land, so verify private boundaries and legal access.34

Watch-outs

  • County-road right-of-way work, including a driveway or utility connection, requires a Daggett County Road Department encroachment permit.28
  • A driveway connection to a Utah state highway requires a conditional access permit, including when land use or access intensity changes.30
  • Short-term-rental materials list a $300 application fee, a $100 renewal fee, a $202 safety inspection fee, and additional fire and health-review costs.35

Sources

  1. Daggett County Code § 8-3-4: Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  2. Planning and Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  3. Wastewater & Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  4. Building Permit Applications, quoted and re-checked
  5. daggettcounty.gov, quoted and re-checked
  6. Daggett County Title 8 Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  7. Wastewater & Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  8. Title 8: Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  9. Utah Code § 58-55-305: Exemptions from licensure, quoted and re-checked
  10. Title 8: Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  11. Title 8, Manufactured Home Definition, quoted and re-checked
  12. Building Permit Applications, quoted and re-checked
  13. Daggett County Title 8 Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  14. Uniform Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  15. 8-3-4: Building Permits, quoted and re-checked
  16. Daggett County Planning & Zoning (daggettcounty.gov)
  17. Building Permit Applications, quoted and re-checked
  18. Building Permit Applications, quoted and re-checked
  19. 8-6-1: Establishment Of Zoning Districts, quoted and re-checked
  20. Daggett County Title 8 Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  21. Uniform Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  22. Daggett County Title 8 Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  23. Daggett County Title 8 Land Use Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  24. Dutch John Zoning Regulation, quoted and re-checked
  25. DAR File No. 37575, Rule R317-4, Onsite Wastewater Systems (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. 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
  27. Wastewater & Septic Systems, quoted and re-checked
  28. Driveway Encroachment Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  29. Daggett County Title 8 Amended, quoted and re-checked
  30. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. daggettcounty.gov, quoted and re-checked
  32. Short Term Rental Renewal Application, quoted and re-checked
  33. Daggett County Short Term Rental Documentation, quoted and re-checked
  34. Federal land share: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Updated County Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 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, Daggett County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleDaggett CountyDuchesne CountySummit CountyUintah CountyWasatch CountyCarbon CountyRich County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsTriCounty Health Dept.TriCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.TriCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.Southeast Utah Health DistrictBear River Health Dept.

County locator

Daggett County in Utah

54
County map
Daggett County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Daggett County scores

Seclusion94100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency3594% ev.
Admin Boringness40100% ev.
Durability30100% ev.
Property Autonomy60100% ev.
Carry Cost81100% 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 →

$368kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$3,609Land / acre
14.6"Annual rain
23.1% of yrsSevere drought
0.8 / yr (+0.8)Mid-century 100°F days
26 daysMid-century dry spell
1.06" (+7.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.21×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,158Home insurance / yr
3.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.95%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
60People within 30 min
16,762People within 2 hr
905Radius comparison (15 mi)
1.4People / sq mi
84.1%Federal land
59.6%Land at 15% slope or less
30%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
50,620 acWorkable land screen
52%Wooded land
19.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
42.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Daggett 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 Dutch John

Answers from the rulebook for Daggett County

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

Daggett County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, alteration, repair, improvement, removal, demolition, or setup of a mobile home, building, structure, or industrial facility in unincorporated Daggett County.

    • A written application must be filed with the building inspector and a formal permit obtained before the work begins.
    • Agricultural buildings are exempt to the extent exempted by Daggett County Code §§ 8-6A-1A and 8-6A-1B.
    • Detached accessory buildings of less than 200 square feet are exempt.
    • The rule applies to state- and federally-financed construction projects in which the County has an interest to inspect for health, safety, and general welfare.
    • Permits apply to development and construction regardless of whether the project is government- or privately financed and owned.
    • A permit for work not commenced within 180 days after issuance expires.
    • A permit may not be issued for an unrecorded subdivision until the subdivision is approved and recorded.
    • A lot or parcel must adjoin a street or permanent easement for at least 20 feet.

    detached accessory building exemption threshold: < 200 square feet (Agricultural buildings are governed by separate exemptions.) · permit commencement deadline: 180 days (Permit expires if work is not commenced within this period.) · minimum street or permanent easement frontage: >= 20 feet

    “BUILDING PERMITS: Building Permits are Required for building in any unincorporated area of the county per section 8-3-4 of the County Code”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, alteration, repair, improvement, removal, demolition, or setup of a mobile home, building, structure, or industrial facility in an unincorporated area of Daggett County.
      “BUILDING PERMITS: Building Permits are Required for building in any unincorporated area of the county per section 8-3-4 of the County Code : "It shall be unlawful to construct, alter, repair or improve, remove or demolish, or to commence the construction of, or the set up of a mobile home, alteration, removal or demolition of a building or structure, or any industrial facility, without first filing with the building inspector an application in writing and obtaining a formal permit. Agricultural buildings (see subsections 8-6A-1A and B of this title) and detached accessory buildings of less than two hundred (200) square feet (see ICC-IRC Code R105.2) are exempt.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Owner-builders applying for Daggett County building permits in unincorporated areas.

    • The county provides an Owner Builder Certification and Agreement to Comply with Construction Trades Licensing Act.
    • The document must be attached with all building permit applications.
    • The document must be notarized.
    • The available county page does not state that the certification waives the building-permit requirement; it appears to be a compliance certification used with a permit application.
    “I understand that work performed on the project must be performed by the following: a. myself as the sole owner of the property; or b. a licensed contractor;”
  • Building code adoptedPartial

    Building-code adoption stated in Daggett County's zoning ordinance for the unincorporated area.

    • The ordinance states that Daggett County adopts and enforces the Uniform Building Code in its most recent editions, as editions are updated from time to time.
    • The same provision also identifies the Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Electrical Code, Model Energy Code, and Utah State regulations applying to handicapped access.
    • The ordinance is titled and scoped as the zoning ordinance for the Unincorporated Area of Daggett County; this evidence does not establish countywide application or the currently operative code edition for incorporated areas.
    • The source identifies the ordinance as amended last by Ordinance 11-28 on October 28, 2011, but that amendment date is not treated as a current code-edition effective date.
    “Daggett County adopt and enforce the provisions of the Uniform Building Code in its most recent editions, as editions are updated from time to time, as well as the Uniform Plumbing Code and the Uniform Electrical Code, the Model Energy Code, and the Utah State regulations which apply to the handicapped.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Residential building construction in unincorporated Daggett County, including manufactured or stick-built residential structures and additions subject to a county building permit.

    • The county residential permit packet requires the permit holder to contact the Building Inspector for inspections and to allow at least 24 hours notice.
    • An approved inspection is required every 180 days from the date of permit issuance or the permit expires and becomes null and void; extensions may be requested from the Building Official.
    • Required inspection stages include foundation; rough plumbing, mechanical, gas, and electrical systems before covering or concealment and before fixtures or appliances are installed and before framing inspection; floodplain inspections where construction is in a flood hazard area; frame and masonry; other inspections the building official requires; fire-resistance-rated construction where required; and final inspection after permitted work is complete and before occupancy.
    • For ground-source heat pump loop systems, backfilling before inspection is permitted when the systems have been tested in accordance with Section M2105.28.
    • For flood hazard areas, elevation documentation prepared and sealed by a registered design professional is required before further vertical construction and, as applicable, before final inspection.
    • Special inspections are required for fire-resistance-rated construction, reinforced masonry, insulation concrete, and conventionally formed concrete walls.
    • Agricultural buildings and detached accessory buildings of less than 200 square feet are exempt from the county building-permit requirement; the county page separately directs applicants to the Town of Manila for that town's requirements.

    inspection notice: >= 24 hours (Permit holder must allow at least 24 hours notice.) · permit inspection interval: 180 days (An approved inspection is required every 180 days from permit issuance; extensions may be requested.) · detached accessory-building exemption threshold: < 200 square feet (Agricultural buildings are also exempt under the cited county-code provisions.)

    “ALL RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES/ADDITIONS MUST OBTAIN A BUILDING PERMIT [...] YOU MUST CONTACT THE BUILDING INSPECTOR FOR INSPECTIONS. PLEASE ALLOW AT LEAST 24 HOURS NOTICE!! [...] SECTION R109 OF THE 2015 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE REQUIRES THAT YOU HAVE INSPECTION DURING CONSTRUCTION.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Permitted commercial building construction in Daggett County; the county commercial permit application also states inspection timing requirements.
      “An approved inspection is required every 180 days from the date of issuance or permit will expire and be null & void. I may enquire with the Building Official for any request for extensions.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Structures or premises within the Dutch John town site regulated by the Daggett County Dutch John Zoning Regulation.

    • A certificate of occupancy is required before a structure or premises, or any part of it, may be used or occupied after being erected, changed, converted, moved, altered, or enlarged.
    • Human occupancy before obtaining the required certificate is prohibited and constitutes a violation.
    • A temporary certificate may be issued when the building, structure, development, or portion is substantially complete and occupancy presents no substantial hazard.
    • A temporary certificate expires 30 days after issuance.
    • A temporary certificate may be renewed for good cause for no more than an additional 30 days upon application and payment of the renewal fee.
    • The temporary certificate fee is $25 or another amount established by County Commission resolution.
    • A permanent certificate must be issued before expiration of the temporary certificate or a delinquency notice is recorded.

    temporary certificate duration: 30 days (May be renewed for good cause for no more than an additional 30 days.) · temporary certificate fee: 25 USD (Or another amount established by County Commission resolution.) · delinquency release fee: 45 USD (Release also requires compliance and issuance of a permanent certificate.)

    “A certificate of occupancy shall be required before any structure or premises, or part thereof, hereafter erected, changed, converted, moved, altered or enlarged wholly or in part, may be used or occupied.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Daggett County zoning in the unincorporated area.

    • The ordinance is expressly titled for the Unincorporated Area of Daggett County.
    • The county planning page states that the county zoning ordinance includes land-use and building requirements and establishes the Planning and Zoning Commission.
    “This document is an amended Zoning Ordinance for the unincorporated area of Daggett County, Utah, dividing the unincorporated area of said county into zoning districts appropriate for various classes of residential, business, and industrial uses; it also provides for the establishment of land development standards and requirements.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    The zoning districts established by Daggett County Title 8 for the local jurisdiction covered by that title.

    • The ordinance states that the zoning map is filed in the custody of the County Clerk and may be examined by the public.
    • The code page attributes the district list to Ordinance 17-16, passed July 26, 2017.
    • The online code publisher warns that its text may not reflect the most current legislation; the official printed copy should be consulted.

    published zoning district count: 25 district designations · zoning district designations: MU-40; MU-80; MU-160; A-20; A-40; RR-1/2; RR-1; RR-5; RR-10; R1-40; R1-20; R1-12; R1-10; R1-8; R1-6; RM-7; RM-15; CN; CS; CH; CG; MD; MG; CD; PUD

    “For the purposes of this title, the territory of the local jurisdiction to which this title applies is divided into the following zoning districts:”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Single-family and multi-family dwellings in Daggett County zoning districts.

    • Single-family dwellings outside agriculture and multiple-use zones require at least 800 square feet.
    • Multi-family dwelling units require at least 800 square feet.
    • Agriculture and multiple-use zones are excepted from the quoted single-family minimum.

    single-family minimum floor area outside agriculture and multiple-use zones: >= 800 square feet (Agriculture and multiple-use zones are excepted.) · multi-family dwelling-unit minimum living quarters area: >= 800 square feet

    “Each single-family dwelling (except in agriculture and multiple use zones) shall have a minimum of eight hundred (800) square feet and shall be a minimum twenty feet (20') on all sides, not including nondwelling space.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Main uses in Daggett County multiple-use, agricultural, and rural-residential zoning districts in unincorporated Daggett County.

    • The ordinance states that planned unit developments and cluster subdivisions may modify certain lot-width requirements; subdivision approval and other applicable requirements still apply.

    M-U-40 minimum lot size: 40 acres · M-U-80 minimum lot size: 80 acres · M-U-160 minimum lot size: 160 acres · A-20 minimum lot size: 20 acres · A-40 minimum lot size: 40 acres · R-R-1/2 minimum lot size: ½ acre · R-R-1 minimum lot size: 1 acre · R-R-5 minimum lot size: 5 acres · R-R-10 minimum lot size: 10 acres

    “A. M-U-40, Minimum Lot Size: 40 acres B. M-U-80, Minimum Lot Size: 80 acres C. M-U-160, Minimum Lot Size: 160 acres”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Main uses and single-family dwelling lots in Daggett County zoning districts.
      “The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this article shall be 40 80 160 20 40 1/2 1 5 10”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Main and accessory buildings in Daggett County multiple-use, agricultural, and rural-residential zoning districts in unincorporated Daggett County.

    • Accessory buildings may use the same front-yard depth as main buildings if they have the same required side yard; otherwise they must be set back at least six feet behind the main building.
    • Corner-lot yard configurations are separately specified.

    main-building front-yard depth: 60 ft in M-U-40, M-U-80, M-U-160, A-20, A-40; 30 ft in R-R-1/2 and R-R-1; 60 ft in R-R-5 and R-R-10 · main-building rear-yard depth: 60 ft in M-U-40, M-U-80, M-U-160, A-20, A-40; 30 ft in R-R-1/2 and R-R-1; 50 ft in R-R-5; 60 ft in R-R-10 · dwelling side-yard depth: 60 ft in M-U-40, M-U-80, M-U-160, A-20, A-40; 10 ft in R-R-1/2; 15 ft in R-R-1; 20 ft in R-R-5; 25 ft in R-R-10 feet

    “Accessory buildings may have the same minimum front-yard depth as main buildings if they have the same side yard required for main buildings, otherwise they shall be set back at least six (6) feet in the rear of the main building”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Maximum lot coverage in Daggett County zoning districts.

    • Coverage limits vary by zoning district.
    • The agricultural/multiple-use table provides maximum coverage percentages of 25, 20, 10, and 5 percent by district.
    • The residential/multiple-residential table provides maximum coverage percentages of 20, 20, 30, 35, 35, 35, 35, and 50 percent by district.

    maximum lot coverage in agricultural/multiple-use districts: 5-25 percent · maximum lot coverage in residential/multiple-residential districts: 20-50 percent

    “The maximum coverage in percent for any lot in the districts regulated by this article shall be 20 20 30 35 35 35 35 50”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Maximum building and structure height in Daggett County zoning districts.

    • Height limits vary by zoning district.
    • Agricultural/multiple-use/rural-residential districts generally list 25 or 35 feet and 2.5 stories.
    • Residential/multiple-residential districts list 35 feet or 55 feet and 2.5 stories.
    • Airport-area height restrictions may also apply.

    maximum height in agricultural/multiple-use/rural-residential districts: 25-35 feet (Varies by district.) · maximum height in residential/multiple-residential districts: 35-55 feet (Varies by district.) · maximum stories in listed residential districts: 2.5 stories

    “The maximum height for all buildings and structures in districts regulated by this article shall be In feet 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 55 In number of stories 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles, camping trailers, truck campers, motor homes, and related listed vehicles used for living purposes in unincorporated Daggett County outside mobile home parks and recreational vehicle parks.

    • The rule is limited to the unincorporated area of Daggett County.
    • The restriction applies unless the use is permitted under Title 8 chapters 7 or 12 or by the use regulations for a specific zoning district.
    • At no time may the listed recreational vehicle or similar unit be occupied or used for permanent living, sleeping, or housekeeping purposes.
    • The cited section does not establish a general prohibition on temporary camping or non-dwelling storage; other zoning-district and park regulations may apply.
    “This title may be cited as the AMENDED ZONING AND SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE FOR THE UNINCORPORATED AREA OF DAGGETT COUNTY. [...] Unless permitted under the regulations set forth in chapters 7 and 12 of this title, or unless permitted by the use regulations for a specific zoning district, the location or storage of mobile homes and recreational vehicles outside of mobile home parks, recreational vehicle parks and the location or storage of aircraft, boats, camping trailers, truck campers and motor homes shall be subject to the following: At no time shall the recreational vehicle, aircraft, boat, camping trailer, truck camper or motor home be occupied or used for permanent living, sleeping or housekeeping purposes.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A tiny home used as a permanent single-family dwelling in unincorporated Daggett County.

    • Daggett County's Title 8 zoning ordinance applies to the unincorporated area; incorporated municipalities may have separate rules.
    • The ordinance does not define "tiny home" as a separate use. If the unit is a single-family dwelling, it must meet the ordinance's minimum of 800 square feet and minimum 20-foot dimension on all sides, except in agriculture and multiple use zones.
    • A building permit is required for residential construction; the county page states that agricultural buildings and detached accessory buildings under 200 square feet are exempt, but a habitation unit is not identified as an agricultural building or detached accessory building.
    • The county residential permit materials require zoning and setback authorization, approved water/sewer or wastewater documentation, and final inspection before occupancy.
    • The zoning ordinance defines a dwelling as a permanent building and excludes tents and recreational vehicles; a tiny home on wheels or an RV may therefore require separate classification and was not affirmatively authorized by the reviewed sources.

    minimum floor area for single-family dwelling: >= 800 square feet (Except in agriculture and multiple use zones.) · minimum dimension for single-family dwelling: >= 20 feet on all sides (Nondwelling space is excluded from the measurement.) · residential building permit: true (Agricultural buildings and detached accessory buildings of less than 200 square feet are exempt under the county permit page.)

    “Each single-family dwelling (except in agriculture and multiple use zones) shall have a minimum of eight hundred (800) square feet”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Manufactured homes meeting Daggett County's Title 8 definition and placed in residential zones.

    • The home must be constructed on or after June 15, 1976 under the federal HUD Code.
    • It must meet the dimensional definition in Title 8: at least 8 feet in body width, 40 feet in body length, or 400 square feet when erected on site.
    • It must be built on a permanent chassis and attached to an approved permanent foundation.
    • Required utilities, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems must be provided.
    • A data plate must be attached to the interior and a HUD label to the exterior.
    • A building permit is required for construction or setup in an unincorporated area, subject to the county's stated agricultural-building and under-200-square-foot detached-accessory-building exemptions, which do not ordinarily apply to a dwelling.

    minimum body width: >= 8 feet · minimum body length: >= 40 feet · minimum on-site area: >= 400 square feet

    “All manufactured homes shall have a data plate attached to the interior of the home and a HUD label attached to the exterior of the home. Manufactured homes meeting this definition may be placed in any residential zone.”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Onsite wastewater and septic systems in Daggett County, which is served by the TriCounty Health Department across Daggett, Duchesne, and Uintah Counties.

    • The department reviews and approves system plans, issues construction permits, conducts installation inspections, monitors failing systems, and enforces wastewater regulations.
    “Environmental health scientists review and approve system plans”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New onsite wastewater systems, drainfields, septic-tank replacements, and other septic construction activity in Daggett County.

    • TriCounty Health Department reviews and approves system plans and issues construction permits.
    • A wastewater permit or letter of approval from TriCounty Health may be submitted for wastewater systems as part of Daggett County's building-permit process.
    • Separate permit types and applications may apply to wastewater construction, drainfield construction, and septic-tank replacement.
    “Apply for wastewater construction permit”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Inspections of onsite wastewater installations and existing wastewater systems in Daggett County.

    • TriCounty Health Department conducts inspections to verify that installations meet state and local standards.
    • The department provides a process to request inspection for a well or existing wastewater system.
    • The cited page does not establish a universal inspection interval for every existing septic system.
    “Request inspection for well or existing wastewater”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Wastewater disposal for properties in Daggett County where a public sanitary or combined sewer is unavailable, and wastewater facilities in areas served by public sewer.

    • Where public sewer is unavailable, the building sewer must connect to a private wastewater disposal system complying with state code and wastewater disposal regulations.
    • It is unlawful, except as otherwise provided, to construct or maintain a privy, privy vault, septic tank, cesspool, or other wastewater-disposal facility in an area served by public sewer.
    • When a public sewer becomes available to a property served by a private wastewater disposal system under § 4-4-4(A), direct connection is required within sixty (60) days after notice, and septic tanks, cesspools, and similar private facilities must be cleaned of sludge and filled.
    • TriCounty Health Department reviews and approves wastewater system plans, issues construction permits, and conducts inspections.

    connection period after notice when public sewer becomes available: 60 days

    “the building sewer shall be connected to a private wastewater disposal system”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Properties in Daggett County situated on a street, alley, or right of way where a public sanitary or combined sewer is located or becomes located.

    • Connection is required at the owner's expense within sixty (60) days after official notice when the sewer is within three hundred feet (300') of the property line.
    • Single-family dwellings and accessory structures existing and connected to an approved private sewage disposal system may remain on that system when no hazard, nuisance, or insanitary condition is evidenced and insufficient grade or fall prevents gravity drainage to the sewer.
    • The district may extend the connection time to accommodate county road-cut prohibitions or other county-imposed regulations.
    • The district operating the public sewer may impose additional rules, including fees and waste-type requirements.
    • A person connecting to public sewer must notify the operating district and allow inspection before covering the facilities and connection.

    sewer distance from property line: <= 300 feet · connection period after official notice: 60 days

    “within sixty (60) days after the date of official notice to do so”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural buildings in Daggett County multiple-use and agricultural zoning districts.

    • The building must be used solely in conjunction with agriculture use.
    • The building must not be for human occupancy.
    • A site plan is required unless otherwise exempted.
    • Permits for plumbing, electrical, and mechanical work are required when that work is included in the structure.
    “Agricultural buildings are not required to obtain a building permit when used solely in conjunction with agriculture use, and are not for human occupancy; notwithstanding this and unless otherwise exempted, a site plan is required and permits for plumbing, electrical and mechanical work will be required when that work is included in the structure.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision, platting, and recording of land in the unincorporated area of Daggett County.

    • No person may subdivide land or obtain a building permit for a lot or parcel in the unincorporated area except in compliance with the subdivision chapter, zoning ordinance, and all applicable local, state, and federal laws.
    • A plat or metes-and-bounds subdivision recorded without required approvals is void for development or building-permit purposes.
    • Subdivision transfers before approval and recording may violate the ordinance and Utah Code section 17-27a-611.
    “This chapter shall govern and apply to the subdivision, platting and recording of all lands lying within the unincorporated area of the county.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Installation or upgrading of a driveway affecting a Daggett County road right-of-way.

    • A driveway encroachment permit application is required for the county-road access process.
    • The application must include a map showing driveway access and the county road, plus a plan and profile showing existing grade, ditches, flow direction, right-of-way fences, proposed pipes, and proposed driveway grade.
    • The driveway must slope 2% away from the county road for at least 30 feet or until surface water is diverted to side drainage.
    • No surface water may drain from the proposed or upgraded driveway to the county road.
    • The permit applicant must notify the county roads foreman 24 hours before construction.
    • The permit application lists a $50 fee.

    minimum driveway cross-slope away from county road: >= 2 percent · minimum distance for slope requirement: >= 30 feet (Or until surface water is diverted to side drainage) · construction notice: >= 24 hours · driveway permit fee: 50 USD

    “Road Encroachment Permit. (this is a permit from the Dagge County Road Department that is required whenever there is going to be ANY work done in the county right-of-way i.e. driveways, ulity connecons, etc.)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Short-term-rental applications in unincorporated Daggett County when direct vehicular access to a public street is not shown on the site plan.
      “If direct vehicular access from the Property to a public street is not shown on the Site Plan, the Application must include a Temporary Access Easement from the owners of each property over which vehicles must pass to access the Property. All Temporary Access Easements shall be signed and notarized by the owner or owners of the property or properties granting the Temporary Access Easements.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Conditional-use development in unincorporated Daggett County where property may be subject to flooding or lies in a floodplain or other listed special site condition.

    • The Planning Commission may impose additional conditions for safety, health, sanitation, environmental, master-plan, neighborhood, performance, and administrative concerns.
    • Where property may be subject to flooding, the Planning Commission may require building elevations and grading plans to prevent or minimize flood-water damage.
    • The Commission may impose appropriate design, construction, location, limitations, or restrictions because of special site conditions including flood plains, fault zones, and landslide areas.
    “Building elevations and grading plans which will prevent or minimize flood water damage, where property may be subject to flooding.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rental of residential property regulated by Daggett County.

    • A conditional-use permit application is required.
    • A business license number is requested on the application.
    • The application requires proof of ownership, zone designation and street address, insurance, fire inspection, and acknowledgement of county regulations.
    • Safety inspection by a Building Inspector and Tri County Health approval of wastewater and water are required when applicable or when changes from the original application require them.
    • If direct vehicular access to a public street is not shown, a signed and notarized temporary access easement is required; failure to obtain a replacement easement may terminate the license.
    • The application states that incomplete applications will not be accepted.
    • Application fee is $300; renewal fee is $100; safety inspection fee is $202 plus $100 for each additional inspection; fire inspection fee is $100 paid to the Flaming Gorge Fire District; Tri County Health review is at cost.
    • The renewal form states that septic systems allow only two occupants per bedroom under Tri-County Health requirements.
    • Occupancy beyond the amount specified in the license, unauthorized commercial activities, and on-site food preparation for persons other than allowed occupants and guests are prohibited; sale of alcohol on the premises is prohibited.

    application fee: 300 USD · renewal fee: 100 USD · safety inspection fee: 202 USD (plus $100 for each additional inspection required) · fire inspection fee: 100 USD (paid to Flaming Gorge Fire District) · septic occupancy limit: 2 occupants per bedroom (per Tri-County Health when on a septic system)

    “Application fee: $300 / Renewal $100 Safety Inspection: Fee: $202 plus $100 for each additional inspection required Fire Inspection: $100 (Paid to Flaming Gorge Fire District)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Residential short-term rentals of less than 30 days in Daggett County zoning districts governed by Title 8.
      “It shall be unlawful for any person to rent for less than thirty (30) days a residence without possessing and maintaining a conditional use permit as required by this chapter.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Short-term-rental conditional-use permit applications administered by Daggett County.

    • The county fee schedule states that all fees are non-refundable.
    • The short-term-rental application states an application fee of $300, renewal fee of $100, safety inspection fee of $202 plus $100 for each additional inspection, fire inspection fee of $100 paid to Flaming Gorge Fire District, and Tri County Health charges at cost.

    short-term-rental application fee: 300 USD (Renewal fee is $100) · short-term-rental safety inspection fee: 202 USD (Plus $100 for each additional inspection required) · short-term-rental fee schedule listing: 50 USD (County fee schedule lists Short Term Rental (AIRBNB); application materials separately state permit application fees)

    “Application fee: $300 / Renewal $100 Safety Inspection Fee: $202 plus $100 for each additional inspection required Fire Inspection: $100 (Paid to Flaming Gorge Fire District) Letter Received __yes ___no Tri County Health At Cost (Paid to Tri County Health) Letter Received __yes ___no”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — Building permit issuance in unincorporated Daggett County.
      “M. Fees: Any fee charged for the issuance of building permits shall be based upon the current International Building Code as recommended therein.”
    • Published (with conditions) — County building-permit applications for accessory buildings and dwellings in unincorporated Daggett County.
      “A non refundable deposit will be due at the time an application is turned in. This will apply to the total cost of the building permit. Deposit-$200 for any accessory building Deposit-$600 for any dwelling-Deposit”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Development and construction requiring a building permit in unincorporated Daggett County.

    • Agricultural buildings and detached accessory buildings of less than 200 square feet are exempt.
    • The application must be filed in writing with the building inspector and accompanied by scaled plans and the required property, use, dimensional, utility, disposal-system, and other information.
    • The building inspector examines the application and approves and issues the permit as soon as practicable if the work complies; otherwise the application is rejected with the finding attached.
    • A permit expires if no work commences within 180 days after issuance.
    • A building permit requires the parcel to adjoin a street or permanent easement for at least 20 feet.
    • At least 24 hours' written or electronic notice of starting work is required.

    detached accessory building exemption threshold: < 200 square feet · minimum street or permanent-easement frontage: >= 20 feet · permit commencement deadline: 180 days after issuance · notice before starting work: >= 24 hours (Written or electronic notice)

    “Application for a building permit shall be accompanied by a plan in duplicate drawn to scale of the proposed construction or use containing sufficient information for the enforcement of this title.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Building-permit applications for development and construction in unincorporated Daggett County.
      “The Building Permit application and forms listed below can all be mailed to you by contacting the Planning & Zoning Office at the Daggett County Courthouse at 435-784-3222 ext. 230. For information about the Town of Manila’s requirements please contact the Manila Town Office at 435-784-3143.”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    One internal accessory dwelling unit within a primary dwelling in county areas of Utah zoned primarily for residential use.

    • The unit must be an internal accessory dwelling unit within a primary dwelling and the area must be zoned primarily for residential use.
    • The unit must comply with all applicable building, health, and fire codes.
    • A county may prohibit a separate utility meter; require the unit not to change the appearance of the primary dwelling as a single-family dwelling; and require one additional on-site parking space, except when the county land use ordinance requires four off-street parking spaces. Garage or carport parking spaces converted to habitable space must be replaced.
    • A county may prohibit an internal accessory dwelling unit within a mobile home; require a permit or license for renting it; prohibit units in a zoning district covering an area equivalent to 25% or less of the total unincorporated area zoned primarily for residential use, except that newly constructed units with final plat approval dated on or after October 1, 2021, and complying with applicable land use regulations may not be prohibited; prohibit units served by a failing septic tank; prohibit units on lots of 6,000 square feet or less; prohibit rental for fewer than 30 consecutive days; and prohibit rental when the dwelling is not occupied as the owner's primary residence.
    • A county may hold a lien and record an accessory-dwelling-unit notice under the procedures in § 17-80-303(4)-(5).
    • This claim does not determine additional municipality-specific ordinances under Utah's municipal land-use statute.

    minimum rental period: >= 30 consecutive days · small-lot threshold: <= 6000 square feet (A county may prohibit creation at or below this lot size) · restricted county residential zoning area: <= 25 percent of total unincorporated residentially zoned area (Newly constructed units with final plat approval dated on or after October 1, 2021 and compliance with applicable land use regulations may not be prohibited) · additional parking: 1 on-site space (Not permitted if the county land use ordinance requires four off-street parking spaces)

    “In any area zoned primarily for residential use: (a) the use of an internal accessory dwelling unit is a permitted 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.”
  • 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.”

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.

Living off-grid in Daggett County, Utah

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

Daggett County scores 54/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 60 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: elevated current hazard exposure and weak self-sufficiency basics: only 14.6″ of rain a year, in severe drought 23.1% of years.

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

Daggett County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by TriCounty 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 Daggett County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Daggett County is limited to specific cases: Recreational vehicles, camping trailers, truck campers, motor homes, and related listed vehicles used for living purposes in unincorporated Daggett County outside mobile home parks and recreational vehicle parks. The rule is limited to the unincorporated area of Daggett County. The restriction applies unless the use is permitted under Title 8 chapters 7 or 12 or by the use regulations for a specific zoning district. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Daggett County, Utah?

Land in Daggett County runs about $3,609 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Daggett County?

Daggett County gets about 14.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 23.1% of years.

How remote is Daggett County?

A representative private-land location has about 60 people within a 30-minute drive and 16,762 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 Daggett compares in Utah

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