Bolthole Index

Duchesne County, Utah

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Duchesne County, Utah

62Index Score / 100
#2 of 29 in Utah

Unincorporated Duchesne County, Utah requires a building permit for any building designed or intended for human occupancy, regardless of size1. County zoning controls permitted and conditional uses by district, and a building site must meet zoning requirements before a permit is issued21. TriCounty Health Department reviews onsite wastewater plans, issues construction permits and inspects installations3.

At a glance

Building permit
Required in unincorporated areas for any building designed or intended for human occupancy, regardless of size1
Zoning
Yes in unincorporated areas; residential district minimums range from 0.5 acre in R-1/2 to 10 acres in A-10456
Septic authority
TriCounty Health Department reviews plans, issues construction permits and inspects installations3
Owner-builder exemption
Yes, statewide: a sole owner may build up to 1 residential structure per year, no more than 3 in any five-year span, for noncommercial use7
Accessory building exemption
A single-story storage shed 200 sq ft or less needs no permit once a dwelling already exists on the parcel8
RV living
Primary-residence use is barred outside an approved RV park, except for a possible temporary building-permit exception9
Wells
A water-production well needs a Utah water right and a Start Card before construction10
Tiny home and accessory dwelling
A tiny home needs a building permit regardless of size; accessory dwellings are permitted in A-10/A-5, A-2.5 and R-1, conditional in R-1/2, and prohibited in commercial and industrial districts1112

Who to call

Building permits

Duchesne County Department of Building Safety

Building permits, plan review and inspections for construction in unincorporated Duchesne County

(435) 738-1150

building@duchesne.utah.gov

734 North Center Street, Duchesne, UT 84021

Online permits →

Building permits

Duchesne County Department of Building Safety

Building permits, plan review and inspections for construction in unincorporated Duchesne County

Building permits

Duchesne County Department of Building Safety

Publishes the county's Tiny Home Information Sheet, applying the state's tiny-house building code appendix to permit applications

Codes & inspections

Duchesne County Community Development Department

Publishes the county's 'Things to Know Before Purchasing Land' guide covering permits, zoning, septic, water, road classes, subdivisions and the wildfire code

Zoning

Duchesne County Community Development Department

Zoning administration, subdivisions and land-use permits for unincorporated Duchesne County

435-738-1152

planning@duchesne.utah.gov

PO Box 317, Duchesne, UT 84021

Online permits →

Floodplain permits

Duchesne County Community Development Department (Floodplain Management)

Administers Duchesne County's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and floodplain development permits for unincorporated land

(435) 738-1135

mikeg@duchesne.utah.gov

Online permits →

Septic permits

TriCounty Health Department (Roosevelt office)

Septic (onsite wastewater) plan review, construction permits and inspections for Duchesne County, plus well-water testing and approval

(435) 722-6300

roosevelt@tricountyhealth.com

409 South 200 East, Roosevelt, UT 84066

Roads & driveways

Duchesne County Road Department

County road maintenance, approach (driveway) permits and right-of-way crossing permits

435-738-2468

mcasper@duchesne.utah.gov

20800 East River Road, Duchesne, UT 84021

Online permits →

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

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Duchesne County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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

Yes. Unincorporated Duchesne County requires a building permit for any building designed or intended for human occupancy, regardless of size1. Incorporated Altamont, Tabiona, Duchesne, Roosevelt and Myton use separate building departments or inspectors1. An accessory storage shed on a parcel with an established dwelling can avoid a permit only when it is single story and 200 square feet or less; a shed on a vacant parcel needs a permit regardless of size8. A qualifying agricultural structure used solely for agriculture and not for human occupancy may be exempt, but plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits can still apply, subdivision acreage conditions matter, and zoning setbacks still must be met13. A sole owner may use Utah's owner-builder exemption for personal, noncommercial work, but a new home must be the owner's only residential structure that year and the owner may not have built more than 3 residential structures in the preceding five-year period7.

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

The Duchesne County Department of Building Safety is at 734 North Center Street, Duchesne, UT 84021, reachable at (435) 738-1150 or building@duchesne.utah.gov14. Unincorporated Duchesne County applies the International Building Code and the International Residential Code as amended, and detached one- and two-family homes follow the residential code15. Building permit fees are based on the estimated construction cost, a 1% state surcharge applies to every issued building permit, and plan review adds 35% to 65% of the permit fee16. The county offers an online application and PDF forms, including a permit packet and checklist17. Construction documents must be dimensioned and drawn on suitable material, while an approved electronic submission must be a PDF17. A permit expires if work does not begin within 180 days or stops for 180 days after it begins; a written request based on circumstances beyond the permit holder's control can support an extension of up to 180 days17. County-permitted work is inspected against the approved plans, and final approval plus a certificate of occupancy are required before a completed building is occupied or used1819.

Does Duchesne County have zoning?

Yes. Duchesne County's zoning title applies to land, buildings and premises in the unincorporated area shown on the official zoning district map4. The county publishes those districts in the Tax Parcel Viewer zoning layer, and a use may be permitted outright, conditional or restricted depending on the district52. Minimum lots are 10 acres in A-10, 5 acres in A-5, 2.5 acres in A-2.5, 1 acre in R-1 and 0.5 acre in R-1/26. The listed districts use 30-foot front and rear setbacks, while side-yard standards vary20. Residential and agricultural districts cap building height at 40 feet; commercial and industrial districts allow 50 feet, and exceeding 40 feet requires conditional-use approval21. Contact Community Development to verify the parcel's mapped district and proposed use22.

How do septic permits work in Duchesne County?

TriCounty Health Department is the local onsite-wastewater authority for Duchesne County: its environmental health staff reviews system plans, issues construction permits and inspects installations3. An application requires a site assessment, drinking-water proof, a floor plan, fees and a detailed system drawing23. TriCounty must conduct the final inspection before issuing the operating permit, and the system must remain exposed enough to verify construction against the approved plans24. A state-approved sewer connection is required when TriCounty finds a sewer accessible and within 300 feet of the property, with another 150 feet counted for each proposed residential lot or unit25. Only about 9.7% of county soils rate free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so complete the site assessment before assuming a standard system will work26.

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

Unincorporated Duchesne County does not allow an RV to serve as a primary residence unless it is in an approved RV park9. The Community Development Administrator may grant an exception for no more than 1 year when the RV occupancy accompanies a valid building permit for a permanent dwelling and appropriate water and wastewater facilities are provided9. Do not assume occasional camping is allowed on every parcel: campground use is treated differently across the county's zoning districts, and the available rule does not answer informal camping on private land27. Accessory dwellings are permitted in A-10/A-5, A-2.5 and R-1, require conditional-use approval in R-1/2, and are prohibited in commercial and industrial districts12. A tiny home is treated like any other building designed or intended for human occupancy: it needs a building permit regardless of size, and zoning, water and wastewater requirements still apply11. The county does not name a separate tiny-home category, so ask Community Development how a specific tiny home would be classified before buying or placing one22.

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

  1. Confirm the parcel's mapped zoning district, allowed use, minimum lot size, setbacks and height limit with Community Development before designing the house562021.
  1. Establish an approved culinary-water source. If no public system serves the building, obtain private-well approval from the Utah Division of Water Rights and TriCounty Health Department; the state Start Card serves as the well-construction permit2810.
  1. Ask TriCounty whether sewer connection is required; if not, complete the site assessment and obtain the onsite wastewater permit253.
  1. Obtain fire-plan approval, then submit the building application and construction documents to Building Safety117.
  1. Obtain the applicable county-road or state-highway access permit2930.
  1. Complete building and septic inspections, then obtain final approval and the certificate of occupancy before moving in182419.

What to check before you buy land in Duchesne County

Confirm legal access before committing: Duchesne County warns that a parcel is not guaranteed to have legal access, and Community Development can provide a map of nearby roads8. Dividing land into 2 or more lots generally requires county approval, and a minor subdivision of up to 4 parcels must meet lot-size, sanitary approval, legal-access and culinary-water requirements31. Check flood status early because development in the unincorporated county's 1% annual-chance floodplain requires a floodplain permit32. A commercial short-term rental in the A-2½ or A-5 district requires conditional-use approval, a business license, health approvals and a building inspection before guests occupy it33. Check soils and water together: only about 9.7% of county soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, and a water-production well needs a state water right and Start Card2610.

Watch-outs

  • The county's 2019 'Things to Know' PDF lists the TriCounty Health Department's water line as 435-722-6310, but the health department's own current website lists (435) 722-6300 for its Roosevelt office; call ahead and confirm which line reaches the office you need834.
  • The same PDF lists 435-7381151 for the Community Development Department's road-access map request, one digit off from the department's current listed line, (435) 738-1152; try the current number first822.
  • A primary-residence RV is unlawful outside an approved RV park unless the Community Development Administrator grants the temporary building-permit exception9.
  • We could not confirm a countywide minimum dwelling size, and the county does not name a separate tiny-home category; a tiny home still needs a building permit regardless of size, so ask Community Development before relying on any size assumption1122.

Sources

  1. Duchesne County Building Permit Process and Inspection Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  2. Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  3. Things to Know Before Purchasing Land in Duchesne County, quoted and re-checked
  4. Duchesne County Code § 8-1-3: Applicability, quoted and re-checked
  5. Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  6. Duchesne County Code § 8-5-1: Zoning Districts Specified; Purpose, quoted and re-checked
  7. Owner / Builder Certification Agreement To Comply with The Construction Trades Licensing Act, quoted and re-checked
  8. Duchesne County Community Development Department (duchesne.utah.gov)
  9. Duchesne County Zoning Ordinance Amendment Ordinance #22-398, quoted and re-checked
  10. Water Well Drilling Information, quoted and re-checked
  11. Things to Know Before Purchasing Land in Duchesne County, quoted and re-checked
  12. Duchesne County Code § 8-2-1, Terms Defined, quoted and re-checked
  13. Duchesne County Agricultural Exemption Acknowledgement, quoted and re-checked
  14. Duchesne County Department of Building Safety (duchesne.utah.gov)
  15. 7-1C-2: Building and Residential Codes, quoted and re-checked
  16. Building Permit Packet, quoted and re-checked
  17. Building Inspector — Obtaining a Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  18. Duchesne County Building Permit Process and Inspection Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  19. Duchesne County Building Permit Process and Inspection Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  20. Duchesne County Code, Section 8-6-2: Site Development Standards Table, quoted and re-checked
  21. Duchesne County Code, Section 8-6-2: Site Development Standards Table, quoted and re-checked
  22. Duchesne County Community Development Department (duchesne.utah.gov)
  23. TriCounty Health Department Wastewater Regulation, quoted and re-checked
  24. TriCounty Health Department Wastewater Regulation, quoted and re-checked
  25. Duchesne County Code § 8-9-8 Water and Sewage Requirements, 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. Duchesne County Zoning Ordinance Amendment Ordinance #19-373, quoted and re-checked
  28. Duchesne County Code § 8-9-8 Water and Sewage Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  29. Road Department, quoted and re-checked
  30. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Duchesne County Code § 9-1-4: Definitions, quoted and re-checked
  32. Floodplain Management, quoted and re-checked
  33. Short-term Rental Conditional Use Permit Staff Report, quoted and re-checked
  34. TriCounty Health Department (Roosevelt office) (tricountyhealthut.gov)

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, Duchesne County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleDuchesne CountyWasatch CountyCarbon CountySummit CountyUintah CountyDaggett CountyUtah County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsTriCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.Southeast Utah Health DistrictCounty Health Dept.TriCounty Health Dept.TriCounty Health Dept.UT County Health Dept.

County locator

Duchesne County in Utah

62
County map
Duchesne County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Duchesne County scores

Seclusion66100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency4396% ev.
Admin Boringness40100% ev.
Durability58100% 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 →

$376kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$1,649Land / acre
17.5"Annual rain
29.5% of yrsSevere drought
1 / yr (+0.9)Mid-century 100°F days
27.2 daysMid-century dry spell
1.15" (+9.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.2×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,043Home insurance / yr
2.4% / yrInsurance growth
1.01%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
18Radius comparison (15 mi)
6.3People / sq mi
45.2%Federal land
46.9%Land at 15% slope or less
9.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
109,216 acWorkable land screen
33.4%Wooded land
18.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
42.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Duchesne 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 Altamont · Duchesne · Roosevelt · Town of Tabiona

Answers from the rulebook for Duchesne County

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

Duchesne County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New residential building construction in unincorporated Duchesne County administered by the Duchesne County Department of Building Safety.

    • The source states that Town of Altamont, Town of Tabiona, and the cities of Duchesne, Roosevelt, and Myton have separate building departments or inspectors; this claim does not cover those incorporated jurisdictions.
    • All building sites must meet minimum zoning requirements before a building permit is issued.
    • Applicants must provide proof of legal connection to an approved sewer treatment facility or an onsite Waste Water Disposal Permit from Tri-County Health Department.
    • For residential or business uses, evidence of an approved culinary water source or supply is required.
    • A fire protection plan must be reviewed and approved by the County Fire Warden or County Fire Marshal before the building permit is issued.
    • The 2023 packet states that building permit fees are based on estimated construction cost valuation, includes a 1% state surcharge on issued permits, and sets the plan review fee at not less than 35% and up to 65% of the building permit fee.
    • Every permit expires if work is not commenced within 180 days from issuance, or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after commencement; an extension not exceeding 180 days may be requested in writing for circumstances beyond the permit holder's control.

    state surcharge: 1% (required on all issued building permits) · plan review fee: 35%-65% of building permit fee · permit commencement deadline: 180 days (permit becomes null and void if work has not commenced) · permit suspension or abandonment period: 180 days (after work has commenced)

    “Building Permits – Building permits are required for any building that is designed or intended for human occupancy, regardless of size.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    Construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal, and demolition of buildings or structures located in Duchesne County's unincorporated area.

    • The adopted International Building Code and International Residential Code are adopted as amended.
    • Detached one- and two-family dwellings, and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories high with separate means of egress and their accessory structures, comply with the International Residential Code.
    • The code website states it is current through Ordinance 26-433, passed July 13, 2026.
    • Separate county zoning, permit, utility, and health requirements may also apply.

    maximum townhouse height for IRC exception: <= 3 stories (Must have separate means of egress.)

    “Adopted: The provisions of the international building code, as amended, and the international residential code, as amended, shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures located in the county.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Buildings and structures constructed under a Duchesne County building permit in unincorporated Duchesne County.

    • All buildings or structures must be inspected according to approved plans.
    • Minimum notice is 24 hours for afternoon inspections and 48 hours for morning inspections.
    • No work may proceed beyond the point indicated in a successive inspection without inspection and approval by the code official.
    • The packet lists required inspections including pre-site/Wildland Urban Interface, footings, foundation, underground utilities, under-floor slab, framing, sheathing, weather-resistive barrier and flashing, rough electrical/plumbing/mechanical/framing, insulation, drywall, final trade inspections, grading, and final inspection.
    • Inspection scheduling requires calling the Duchesne County Department of Building Safety; voicemail is not considered notice.

    afternoon inspection notice: 24 hours · morning inspection notice: 48 hours

    “ALL BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURE SHALL BE INSPECTED according to the approved plans.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    All buildings and structures constructed under the Duchesne County building-permit process in unincorporated Duchesne County.

    • A final inspection approval must occur before the certificate is issued.
    • The certificate must be issued before the building or structure is occupied or used.
    • An onsite wastewater operating permit is required for the County Building Department to issue a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The source distinguishes incorporated towns and cities with separate building departments or inspectors.
    “THERE SHALL BE A FINAL INSPECTION APPROVAL AND A CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY SHALL BE ISSUED ON ALL BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES PRIOR TO THEIR BEING OCCUPIED OR USED.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning authority and regulations administered by Duchesne County, including separate county zoning districts.

    • Uses may be permitted outright, permitted with conditions, or restricted depending on the separate zoning district.
    • Duchesne County's zoning districts are shown in the County Tax Parcel Viewer zoning layer.
    • Drinking water source protection zones in unincorporated areas have additional permitted and prohibited uses under a separate County ordinance.
    “Code outlining zoning authority, administration, definitions, and regulations. Review this code to see the multiple uses permitted outright, permitted with conditions, or restricted in each, separate zoning district.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land, buildings, and premises in Duchesne County's unincorporated area shown on the county official zoning district map.

    • Uses and structures must comply with Title 8 zoning regulations.
    • The county zoning title establishes minimum requirements and additional requirements may be imposed by the zoning administrator, board of adjustment, planning commission, or county commission.
    • This claim does not establish zoning rules administered by incorporated municipalities.
    • The county code site states that its posted code may not reflect the most current legislation and that the official printed copy should be consulted.
    “The provisions of this title shall apply to all lands within the unincorporated area of the county, as indicated on the county official zoning district map, accompanying and incorporated herein by reference.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    County zoning districts and the County zoning layer for unincorporated Duchesne County.

    • The County publishes zoning districts through its Tax Parcel Viewer/GIS mapping application.
    • The County zoning page instructs users to open the GIS map, select the Layer List, and select the Duchesne County Zoning layer.
    • The zoning page also identifies drinking-water source-protection zones in unincorporated areas and states that permitted and prohibited uses are outlined in the applicable ordinance.
    “Duchesne County's zoning districts are found in its Tax Parcel Viewer mapping application.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots and parcels in unincorporated Duchesne County subject to the county zoning ordinance.

    • A-10 requires a Tri-County Health Department-approved nonpublic water source or public water connection for residential development and a wastewater system permit.
    • A-5 and A-2.5 require a Tri-County Health Department-approved nonpublic water source or public water connection and a wastewater system permit for buildings for human occupancy.
    • R-1 requires a public water source and a Tri-County Health Department wastewater system permit or public sewer connection.
    • R-1/2 requires both a public water source and public sewer system.
    • Proof of public water and/or sewer connections may allow property mapped A-5 or A-2.5 to be treated as R-1 or R-1/2 without rezoning as described in § 8-5-1.
    • Lot sizes within 98.75 percent of the stated minimum may be rounded up.
    • Easements and rights-of-way may count toward required acreage.
    • If a parcel lies in multiple zoning districts, each district applies only to the portion within its boundaries.
    • Minimum lot-size standards do not apply to parcels created for unmanned public or private transportation, utility-service, or telecommunications facilities.

    A-10 minimum lot size: >= 10 acres (No parcel in A-10 may be reduced below 10 acres.) · A-5 minimum lot size: >= 5 acres · A-2.5 minimum lot size: >= 2.5 acres · R-1 minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · R-1/2 minimum lot size: >= 0.5 acre · C minimum lot size: none (No minimum area requirement.) · I minimum lot size: none (No minimum area requirement.) · lot-size rounding threshold: >= 98.75 percent of minimum (May be rounded up to meet the standard.)

    “A-10, ten (10) acre minimum zone[...] A-5, five (5) acre minimum zone.[...] A-2.5, two and one-half (2 1/2) acre minimum zone”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Development subject to Duchesne County zoning districts.

    • Minimum front and rear setbacks are 30 feet in A-10, A-5, A-2.5, R-1, R-1/2, C, and I districts.
    • Minimum side setbacks vary by district: R-1 requires 8 feet with the total distance of both side setbacks 20 feet; R-1/2 is the same as R-1; C uses the Building Code standard; other listed districts generally require 30 feet or the R-1 standard.
    • Corner-lot side setbacks are 30 feet in A-10, A-5, A-2.5, R-1, and I; 20 feet in R-1/2 and C.
    • Accessory structure or dwelling setbacks are 30 feet front and on the side abutting a street, with interior side and rear setbacks per the Building Code in agricultural and residential districts.

    minimum front yard setback: 30 feet (All listed zoning districts) · minimum rear yard setback: 30 feet (All listed zoning districts) · R-1 minimum side yard setback: 8 feet (Total distance of the two side setbacks must be 20 feet)

    “Minimum front yard setback | 30 feet | 30 feet | 30 feet | 30 feet | 30 feet | 30 feet | 30 feet”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Planned Unit Developments treated as their own zoning district in Duchesne County.

    • Lot area, lot width, yard, and coverage regulations are determined through approval of the site plan.
    • PUD applications require a public hearing.
    • A PUD must generally have at least 10 acres, subject to the stated cluster-development provision.
    • Required common or public open space is 25 percent of total acreage.

    PUD minimum area: >= 10 acres (The minimum area may be reduced to a specific minimum lot size for cluster development) · PUD minimum open space: 25 percent of total acreage

    “Area, Width, Coverage: Lot area, lot width, yard and coverage regulations shall be determined by approval of the site plan.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Buildings subject to Duchesne County zoning district standards.

    • Maximum building height is 40 feet in A-10, A-5, A-2.5, R-1, and R-1/2 districts.
    • Commercial and industrial districts have a 50-foot maximum and an 8-foot minimum shown in the table.
    • Any maximum building height exceeding 40 feet requires conditional-use approval.
    • Height limitations do not apply to spires, belfries, cupolas, antennas, water tanks, ventilators, chimneys, or other appurtenances usually required above roof level and not intended for human occupancy.

    maximum building height in A-10, A-5, A-2.5, R-1, and R-1/2: 40 feet (Exceeding 40 feet requires conditional-use approval) · maximum building height in C and I: 50 feet (Subject to the table and conditional-use rule)

    “Maximum/minimum building height (see note below) | 40 feet | 40 feet | 40 feet | 40 feet | 40 feet | 50 feet/8 feet | 50 feet/8 feet”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Primary residential occupancy of a recreational vehicle on land under Duchesne County zoning jurisdiction.

    • Primary residential use is allowed in an approved recreational vehicle park.
    • An exception may be granted by the Community Development Administrator for occupancy of not more than one year.
    • The exception must be associated with a valid building permit for construction of a permanent dwelling.
    • Appropriate water and wastewater facilities must be provided.
    • County zoning regulations apply to unincorporated areas.

    maximum exception occupancy: <= 1 year

    “It is unlawful to place any recreational vehicle on any lot or parcel of land in the County and to use the same as a primary residence, except when located in an approved recreational vehicle park. An exception may be granted by the Community Development Administrator when the occupancy of a recreational vehicle is for not more than one year, is associated with a valid building permit for the construction of a permanent dwelling and appropriate water and wastewater facilities are provided.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Using a recreational vehicle as a primary residence on a lot or parcel in the county's zoning jurisdiction.
      “It is unlawful to place any recreational vehicle on any lot or parcel of land in the County and to use the same as a primary residence, except when located in an approved recreational vehicle park. An exception may be granted by the Community Development Administrator when the occupancy of a recreational vehicle is for not more than one year, is associated with a valid building permit for the construction of a permanent dwelling and appropriate water and wastewater facilities are provided.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Campground use, as the county zoning ordinance's identified camping-related land use, in the county's zoning jurisdiction.

    • The 2019 county table of uses lists campground as CU in A-10/A-5, A-2.5, and R-1 zones, X in R-1/2, P in C, and X in I; the ordinance excerpt does not define the table abbreviations in the published amendment.
    • This claim does not establish that informal or dispersed temporary camping is allowed on every private parcel.
    • Incorporated municipalities may apply separate land-use rules.
    • Ordinance #19-373 states that it becomes effective fifteen (15) days after publication.

    A-10/A-5 campground use: CU · A-2.5 campground use: CU · R-1 campground use: CU · R-1/2 campground use: X · C campground use: P · I campground use: X

    “Code outlining zoning authority, administration, definitions, and regulations. Review this code to see the multiple uses permitted outright, permitted with conditions, or restricted in each, separate zoning district.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    A tiny home or other building designed or intended for human occupancy in unincorporated Duchesne County.

    • A building permit is required regardless of the building's size.
    • Construction must comply with the approved building permit and any approved conditions.
    • The county zoning title applies to all lands within the unincorporated area of the county.
    • Applicable zoning, water, wastewater, and other health requirements still apply.
    • The official county source does not separately define or name a 'tiny home' category.
    “Building permits are required for any building that is designed or intended for human occupancy, regardless of size.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units on parcels in unincorporated Duchesne County zoning districts.

    • An accessory dwelling is defined as a dwelling unit on the same parcel as a permitted principal use and secondary to that use.
    • Accessory dwellings are permitted in A-10/A-5, A-2.5, and R-1 districts.
    • Accessory dwellings require conditional-use approval in the R-1/2 district.
    • Accessory dwellings are prohibited in Commercial and Industrial districts under the table of uses.
    • All applicable building-permit standards still apply.
    • The county zoning title applies to unincorporated areas.
    “Accessory dwelling | P | P | P | CU | X | X”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Onsite wastewater and sanitary sewer authority for Duchesne County parcels using private onsite wastewater systems.

    • Lots within cities and towns are usually served by sanitary sewer systems; most county lots use private onsite wastewater systems.
    • Parcel suitability is not guaranteed and depends on site conditions.
    “Environmental health scientists review and approve system plans, issue construction permits, and conduct inspections to verify that installations meet state and local standards.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Onsite wastewater systems in the Duchesne County portion of the TriCounty Health Department jurisdiction.

    • The regulation applies within all incorporated and unincorporated areas of Duchesne, Uintah, and Daggett Counties.
    • A site assessment must establish feasibility for the specific project.
    • The onsite wastewater construction permit application requires a signed application, proof of drinking water, an official floor plan, a current tax ID form when applicable, appropriate fees, and a detailed system drawing.
    • Construction permits are valid for one year; an additional one-year extension may be requested after payment of the approved fee and demonstration that plans comply with the current rule.
    • If the onsite wastewater system is under construction, the Department will extend construction permits an additional 60 days.
    • A public sewer connection is required when the sewer is accessible under the applicable rule.

    construction permit validity: 1 year (Additional one-year extension may be requested after payment of the approved fee and compliance with the current rule.) · construction extension while under construction: 60 days

    “All onsite wastewater systems must have an operating permit.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Final inspection of onsite wastewater construction in the Duchesne County portion of the TriCounty Health Department jurisdiction.

    • The department must conduct final inspections to verify that construction follows submitted plans and complies with current local and state regulations.
    • Construction must remain sufficiently exposed for inspection; approved methods may be used to verify gravel and groundwater depths.
    • Inspection requests seeking compliance assistance incur a fee approved by the Board of Health.
    • The Department may inspect construction at any point during the permitting process.
    • An operating permit is issued only after the system is inspected and approved, paperwork is complete, drinking water is approved, and all fees are paid.
    “The department must conduct final inspections to ensure that the construction adheres to the submitted plans and complies with current local and state regulations.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Sewer connection and wastewater disposal for development in the Duchesne County portion of the TriCounty Health Department jurisdiction.

    • Connection to a state-approved sewer system is required when sewer lines are accessible as determined by TriCounty Health Department and within 300 feet of any part of the property proposed for development.
    • For residential development, an additional 150 feet per lot or residential unit is added for each lot or dwelling unit proposed in all project phases.
    • When a proposed building or use generates wastewater and is not connected to an existing sewer, wastewater-disposal approval must be obtained from TriCounty Health Department.
    • The county subdivision ordinance separately requires public sewage collection where onsite disposal is infeasible, proposed lots are under one net acre, or the subdivision boundary is within 150 feet multiplied by the number of proposed lots from an existing public sanitary sewer line; a variance may be requested from the land use authority.

    accessible sewer distance: <= 300 feet (Accessibility is determined by TriCounty Health Department.) · additional residential sewer-distance allowance: per 150 feet per lot or residential unit (Applied for each lot or dwelling unit proposed in all phases.)

    “Connection to a State approved sewer system is required if sewer lines are accessible (as determined by the Tri-County Health Department) and within three hundred feet (300') of any part of the property proposed for development.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Culinary water service for development in the Duchesne County portion of the TriCounty Health Department jurisdiction.
      “If culinary water is not provided from a public water system, a proposed building may be served in accordance with the Rules for Non-Public Water Systems adopted by the Tri- County Health Department Board.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Agricultural structures in Duchesne County that qualify under Utah Code Section 15A-1-204(11) and the county agricultural-exemption acknowledgement.

    • The structure must be used solely in conjunction with agriculture and not for human occupancy, or be no more than 1,500 square feet and used solely for the specified agricultural sales.
    • Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may still be required.
    • The agricultural use must involve tilling soil and raising crops or keeping or raising domestic animals.
    • The structure must not be for human occupancy, subject to the stated maintenance, repair, livestock, crop, and equipment-care access.
    • County parcels within county-approved subdivisions must be at least 2 continuous acres.
    • Parcels within cities and towns must have 5 continuous acres; the city/town restriction does not govern the unincorporated scope of this claim.
    • Unless located in an agricultural protection area, the structure is not exempt if in a city or town under 5 contiguous acres or in a county-approved subdivision under 2 contiguous acres.
    • All zoning setback requirements from property lines must be met.

    agricultural sales structure maximum size: <= 1500 square feet (Must be used solely for the sales described in Utah Code Section 59-12-104(20)) · county-approved subdivision parcel minimum: >= 2 continuous acres (Agricultural protection area exception stated in the source)

    “County parcels, within county approved subdivisions, must be 2 continuous acres or more in size.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Division, redivision, or proposed division of land into two or more lots in unincorporated Duchesne County for offer, sale, lease, or development, subject to stated statutory and ordinance exclusions.

    • A subdivision generally requires county approval; applications require applicable fees and plats, drawings, and supplements under the subdivision and zoning ordinances.
    • A bona fide division or partition of agricultural land for agricultural purposes is excluded from the county's subdivision definition.
    • Recorded boundary adjustments, certain parcel joins, utility-facility divisions, road or highway dedications, and other listed exceptions in § 9-1-4 are excluded if their stated conditions are met.
    • A minor subdivision is limited to four or fewer parcels and requires professional survey preparation, required public notice, compliance with minimum lot size or a variance, sanitary-sewer-authority approval, legal access to an official Class D or Class B road or state highway, and an approved culinary water source for each new lot or parcel.
    • For minor subdivisions without culinary-water connections, no further minor division of the same parent parcel is allowed for three years; with culinary-water connections, the period is one year, subject to the standard-subdivision or amendment alternatives stated in § 9-1-4(F).
    • Divisions requiring public roads, public water lines, or public sewer lines must use the standard subdivision process.
    • Minor subdivision maps must be recorded with the county recorder and filed with the county surveyor.
    • The HB 1001 minor-subdivision exemption allows one new parcel of at least one acre, at least 1,000 feet from another parcel created under the exemption, from a parent parcel of at least 100 acres, under Utah Code § 17-27a-605 and amendments.
    • More than one agricultural parcel in a minor subdivision requires greenbelt assessment on the county tax rolls and a recorded agreement limiting the parcels to agricultural use until approved as building lots; agricultural-use parcels are not approved for recreational or other non-agricultural use.
    • For subdivisions with lots of 40 acres or more, a potable water source approved by the culinary water authority is required and may include hauled water and cistern storage.
    • For subdivisions with lots under 40 acres, an approved water source or system, valid water rights, and applicable well or spring protection requirements are required.
    • If the culinary water authorities cannot verify sufficient water for all new lots or parcels, the minimum lot size is 40 acres regardless of zoning district.
    • A public sewage collection system is required where onsite wastewater disposal is infeasible, proposed lot sizes are under one net acre, or the subdivision boundary is within 150 feet multiplied by the number of proposed lots from an existing public sanitary sewer line, subject to a possible variance.
    • The 2025 land-use fee schedule states an effective date of March 6, 2025: subdivision preliminary plat $25 per lot, final plat $25 per lot, minor subdivision $300, and plat amendment requiring a public hearing $650.

    subdivision threshold: >= 2 lots (Subject to § 9-1-4 exclusions.) · minor subdivision maximum: <= 4 parcels · HB 1001 parent parcel minimum: >= 100 acres (One new exempt parcel.) · HB 1001 new parcel minimum: >= 1 acre (Must be at least 1,000 feet from another parcel created under the exemption.) · water-adequacy fallback minimum lot size: 40 acres (Applies regardless of designated zoning district if culinary water authorities cannot verify sufficient water.) · 2025 preliminary plat fee: 25 USD per lot (Fee schedule effective March 6, 2025.) · 2025 final plat fee: 25 USD per lot (Fee schedule effective March 6, 2025.) · 2025 minor subdivision fee: 300 USD (Fee schedule effective March 6, 2025.) · 2025 public-hearing plat amendment fee: 650 USD (Fee schedule effective March 6, 2025.)

    “Per County code, a subdivision is any land that is divided, resubdivided or proposed to be divided into two (2) or more lots”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Installing a driveway or other access-related improvement across or alongside a Duchesne County road.

    • The County Road Department administers the permit requirement for installations across or alongside a county road.
    • The County page links separate Right of Way Crossing and Approach Permit applications.
    • The page states that a cut is inspected after two years and the bond is released if satisfactory.

    post-construction cut inspection: 2 years (Bond is released if the cut is satisfactory.)

    “When ever any one needs to install anything across or along side a county road, a permit is issued for this.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Any proposed structure or land use in the 1% annual-chance floodplain in unincorporated Duchesne County.

    • The Community Development Department administers the Flood Damage Prevention ordinance as part of the zoning regulation throughout the unincorporated County.
    • A floodplain development permit is required for any proposed structure or land use in the 1% annual-chance floodplain.
    • The County's base-flood-elevation estimator is required to determine whether flood mitigation is required.
    • The 2025 land-use fee schedule lists a $75 floodplain development permit fee.

    floodplain probability: 1 percent annual chance (Also described by the County as the 100-year floodplain.) · floodplain development permit fee: 75 USD (2025 County land-use fee schedule.)

    “Duchesne County does require a floodplain development permit for any proposed structure built or land use in the 1% annual-chance floodplain”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Commercial short-term rental use in the A-2½ and A-5 zoning districts in unincorporated Duchesne County, as illustrated by the County's official conditional-use staff report.

    • A conditional use permit is required in the A-2½ and A-5 districts for the cited commercial short-term rental use.
    • A County business license must be obtained before operations and maintained during the permit.
    • The driveway and parking areas must meet Wildland Urban Interface standards before operations and continuously thereafter.
    • Drinking water and wastewater facilities must be approved by TriCounty Health Department.
    • The Building Official's Short Term Rental Restrictions for Single Family Dwellings remain in force, and a Department of Building Safety inspection is required before public occupancy; the inspection has an additional fee.
    • Transient Room Tax must be collected from guests.
    • The cited report concerns a specific parcel and does not establish that every zoning district permits short-term rentals.

    public notice to nearby property owners: 300 feet (For the conditional-use hearing described in the report.) · conditional-use application lead time: >= 21 days (Required information must be provided to the planning office before the Planning Commission meeting.) · permit inactivity period: 18 months (Without substantial action, the conditional use permit is null and void.)

    “As a commercial use the proposed operation is permitted within the A-2½ and A-5 zoning districts with a conditional use permit.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Building permits administered by Duchesne County Department of Building Safety for construction in unincorporated Duchesne County.

    • Fees are based on estimated construction-cost valuation under the County's adopted construction valuation schedule.
    • A 1% state surcharge is required on all issued building permits.
    • Plan review is 35% to 65% of the building permit fee.
    • The cited packet gives an example, not a universal fee amount.

    example project valuation: 295654.18 USD (Typical 1,500-square-foot single-level home with 700-square-foot attached garage.) · example building permit fee: 1744.36 USD (For the example project valuation.) · state surcharge: 1 percent (Applies to all issued building permits.) · plan review fee: 35-65 percent of building permit fee

    “Building permit fees are based on an estimated construction cost valuation. This will be determined by the Counties adopted construction valuation schedule.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Building-permit process administered by Duchesne County Department of Building Safety.

    • A building permit must be approved before covered construction, reconstruction, alteration, or change of use.
    • The County provides an online building permit application and PDF forms, including a building permit packet and application checklist.
    • Construction documents must be dimensioned and drawn on suitable material; electronic submissions must be PDF when approved by the building official.
    • A permit expires if work is not commenced within 180 days of issuance or is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after commencement.
    • An extension may be granted for up to 180 days on written request showing circumstances beyond the permit holder's control.

    permit commencement deadline: 180 days (Six months from issue date.) · permit suspension or abandonment limit: 180 days (Six months after work has commenced.) · maximum extension: <= 180 days (Written request and satisfactory reason required.)

    “Every permit issued by the Department of Building Safety under the provisions of the adopted minimum safety standards shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the building or work authorized by such permit is not commenced within 180 days (6 months) from the issue date of such permit”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Owner-builder construction and residential remodeling performed under Utah's Construction Trades Licensing Act, including work submitted through the Duchesne County Building Department.

    • For new residential construction, the applicant must be the sole owner of the property and construction project.
    • For new residential construction, the project must be the only residential structure the applicant has built that year.
    • The applicant must not have built more than three residential structures in the preceding five years.
    • The improvements must be for the applicant's personal, non-commercial, non-public use.
    • Work may be performed by the sole owner, a licensed contractor, covered employees, or another person under the owner's supervision receiving no compensation or only token compensation.
    • Using an unlicensed contractor or improperly compensating an unlicensed person for work requiring licensure may result in a Class A misdemeanor and an administrative fine of up to $2,000 for each day of violation.
    • The certification must be filed with the city or county building department where the work is performed; the building department forwards it to the Utah Department of Commerce.

    new residential structures built by owner per year: <= 1 structure (The certification states the project must be the only residential structure built by the applicant that year.) · residential structures built by owner in five years: <= 3 structures (The certification states the applicant must not have built more than three residential structures in the past five years.) · administrative fine for violation: <= 2000 USD per day (Maximum stated fine; criminal penalties may also apply.)

    “If the project is to be an owner builder project, an owner builder exemption form will be required.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — A sole owner building a residential structure on the owner's property for the owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use, including work in unincorporated Duchesne County subject to applicable permits and construction requirements.
      “58-55-305. Exemptions from licensure. (1) In addition to the exemptions from licensure in Section 58-1-307, the following persons may engage in acts or practices included within the practice of construction trades, subject to the stated circumstances and limitations, without being licensed under this chapter: [...] (d) 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, except that 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 under this chapter if the person is otherwise required to be licensed under this chapter;”
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner-builder constructing a residential structure in Duchesne County, subject to Utah's statewide construction-trades licensure exemption and the County's permit process.
      “no more than one residential structure per year on the sole owner's property and no more than three residential structures per five years”
    • Available (with conditions) — A sole owner acting as an owner-builder for residential construction on the owner's property, concerning exemption from contractor licensure under the Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act; this does not by itself eliminate applicable building-permit, inspection, or code requirements.
      “a sole owner of property engaged in building: (i) no more than one residential structure per year on the sole owner's property and no more than three residential structures per five years on the sole owner's property for the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use”
  • Well permitRequired

    Water-production wells, including domestic wells, and regulated non-production wells in Duchesne County.

    • A shallow water well owner must have a valid water right before construction.
    • A Start Card is issued after water-right approval and serves as the permit to construct the well.
    • Water-production wells at any depth are regulated.
    • Non-production wells greater than 30 feet deep are regulated.
    • Regulated drilling, construction, deepening, repair, renovation, replacement, or abandonment must be permitted by the Utah Division of Water Rights and completed by a licensed well driller.
    • Cleaning, development, testing, disinfection, and pump installation or repair are regulated but do not require a permit under the cited rule; licensing requirements still apply.
    • A person installing or repairing a pump on their own well on their own property for their own use is exempt from the pump-installer license requirement.

    non-production well depth threshold: > 30 feet (Non-production wells at 30 feet or less are excluded from regulation under R655-4-1.)

    “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.”
  • 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 floor area for a principal dwelling or tiny home in unincorporated Duchesne 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.

Living off-grid in Duchesne County, Utah

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

Duchesne County scores 62/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 18 people within 15 miles. Watch-outs: more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Duchesne County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by TriCounty Health Department (local health district 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 Duchesne County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Duchesne County is allowed on a temporary basis only: Primary residential occupancy of a recreational vehicle on land under Duchesne County zoning jurisdiction. Primary residential use is allowed in an approved recreational vehicle park. An exception may be granted by the Community Development Administrator for occupancy of not more than one year. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Duchesne County, Utah?

Land in Duchesne County runs about $1,649 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Duchesne County?

Duchesne County gets about 17.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 29.5% of years.

How remote is Duchesne County?

A typical private-land location has about 18 people within 15 miles and 3,161,596 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Duchesne compares in Utah

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