Bolthole Index

Grand County, Utah

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

49Index Score / 100
#16 of 29 in Utah

Grand County, Utah requires a building permit before construction, alteration, repair, demolition or a change of occupancy in the area its Building Department serves, which includes Castle Valley and unincorporated land1. Grand County sets zoning for unincorporated land, while the City of Moab governs development inside city limits under its own Moab Municipal Code, including zoning and building and construction rules23. Septic permits, with plan-design approval, come from the Southeast Utah Health Department wherever public sewer is unavailable, in a city or not45.

At a glance

Building permit
Generally required before covered construction, alteration, repair, demolition, or occupancy changes1
Zoning
Grand County zones unincorporated areas; Moab and Castle Valley administer their own rules6
Septic
Permit and plan-design approval required through Southeast Utah Health where public sewer is unavailable45
RV living
Camping is prohibited outside permitted RV parks, campgrounds, or travel-trailer parks in every zone7
Tiny homes and ADUs
Category and zoning matter; HUD-approved tiny homes follow manufactured-home rules, not blanket parcel approval89
Owner-builder
Available conditionally for an owner's personal, noncommercial residential project1011
Private well
A valid water right and Start Card are required before constructing a regulated well12
Minimum home size
We could not confirm a countywide minimum; ask Planning & Zoning for the parcel's current district standards13

Who to call

Building permits

Grand County Building Department

Building permits, plan review, inspections, certificates of occupancy, and county floodplain questions

435-259-4134

building@grandcountyutah.net

59 N 200 E, Moab, UT 84532

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Grand County Planning & Zoning Department

General inquiries about planning, zoning, engineering, and building review

Planning@GrandCountyUtah.gov

59 N 200 East, Moab, UT 84532

Septic permits

Southeast Utah Health Department — Moab Office

Onsite wastewater permits and plan-design approval for Grand County

435-259-5602

575 S. Kane Creek Blvd., Moab, UT 84532

Floodplain permits

Grand County Floodplain Administration

Flood-map information, flood-risk consultations, and floodplain development permits

435-259-4134

building@grandcountyutah.net

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

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

Yes. Grand County generally requires a building permit before erecting, constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, improving, removing, converting, or demolishing a building or structure1. The Building Department serves all of Grand County, including Castle Valley and unincorporated areas, and conducts inspections during construction1415. Utah's statewide construction code governs covered construction, alteration, remodeling, and repair, together with state and local amendments16. Inside Moab city limits, Moab Planning and Zoning staff enforce the city's building and construction title and zoning title instead3. A few limited jobs are permit-exempt, including a qualifying detached accessory structure no larger than 200 square feet1. Even exempt building work still needs a zoning development permit and must comply with applicable codes and ordinances1. A written Certificate of Occupancy is required before a completed covered building is used17.

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

The Grand County Building Department reviews plans, issues permits, and schedules inspections for county projects, including work in Castle Valley and unincorporated areas15. Building permit applications are submitted through the county's online portal15. For appointments or permit questions, call 435-259-4134 or email building@grandcountyutah.net; the office is at 59 N 200 E, Moab, UT 8453215. Planning and zoning questions go to the Grand County Planning & Zoning Department at Planning@GrandCountyUtah.gov or 59 N 200 East, Moab, UT 8453213. Residential new-construction applications carry a $130 plan-review deposit, while solar applications carry a $65 deposit1. An owner-builder exemption is available for a qualifying sole owner building for personal, noncommercial use, but the certification and statutory conditions still apply1011.

Does Grand County have zoning?

Yes, in unincorporated areas. Grand County administers land-use controls there, while Moab and Castle Valley administer their own municipal zoning rules6. Inside Moab, Title 17 of the Moab Municipal Code is the zoning portion, and its districts set allowed uses, height and setbacks3. Identify the jurisdiction and zoning district before relying on a listing description1813. Grand County allows one accessory dwelling unit with an otherwise allowed primary residence on a lot of at least 5,000 square feet; the ADU is capped at 1,000 square feet and cannot be a travel trailer, boat, or similar recreational vehicle19. Internal ADUs require owner occupancy of either unit and a recorded deed restriction before the building permit is issued20. We could not confirm a countywide minimum dwelling size, so ask Planning & Zoning for the current district standard13. Agricultural buildings used solely for agriculture and not human occupancy may qualify for an exemption, but zoning setbacks apply and plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work can still require permits21.

How do septic permits work in Grand County?

Where public sewer is unavailable, the Southeast Utah Health Department requires a permit and plan-design approval for an onsite wastewater system serving a home or business45. Contact the Moab office at 435-259-5602 or visit 575 S. Kane Creek Blvd., Moab, UT 8453222. The regulatory authority must inspect the full installation before backfilling, and final approval is required before operation23. Conventional drain fields may be difficult: only about 18.6% of Grand County soils are rated without severe limitations for that use, so make septic feasibility an early contingency rather than a post-purchase detail24. If accepted public sewer becomes available and notice is served, the private system must be discontinued and the plumbing connected after 20 days25. Greywater is not a permit-free workaround; it requires a permit and certified professionals for evaluation and design26.

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

Grand County prohibits camping outside a permitted recreational vehicle park, campground, or travel-trailer park in every zone, so camping in an RV on vacant private land is not a general option while building27. RVs and travel trailers may be placed in a manufactured housing park on a concrete or gravel pad under the park rules, and relocatable housing that is not a manufactured home is limited to 30% of the community's units28. Sand Flats allows temporary camping only in designated sites under posted rules; campsites are first-come, first-served29. Grand County's older tiny-home guidance describes paths for some units as primary homes, ADUs, manufactured homes, or campground units, but current parcel-specific permission could not be confirmed8. HUD-approved tiny homes follow the same regulations as other manufactured homes, which does not make them permissible on every parcel9. Ask Planning & Zoning to classify the proposed unit before buying or placing it13.

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

  1. Ask Grand County Planning & Zoning to confirm the parcel's jurisdiction, zoning district, allowed residential use, and applicable development standards3013.
  1. If public sewer is unavailable, obtain septic plan-design approval and a construction permit from the Southeast Utah Health Department before installation5.
  1. If the home will use a private well, secure a valid water right and the Start Card that serves as the well-construction permit12.
  1. If construction is in or touches the Special Flood Hazard Area, obtain a Floodplain Development Permit and preconstruction Elevation Certificate3132.
  1. Submit the building application through the county portal and complete plan review15.
  1. Schedule required phase inspections with the Building Department, and have the septic installation inspected before backfilling1423.
  1. Obtain the written Certificate of Occupancy before using the completed home17.

What should you check before buying land in Grand County?

Start with legal access, zoning, water, wastewater, and flood exposure rather than the view. A driveway connecting to a Utah state highway requires a conditional access permit, including when land use or access intensity changes33. For covered commercial projects, Grand County also requires the scaled site plan to show driveway access34. A private well requires an approved water right and Start Card, so groundwater alone does not establish a legal water supply12. Only about 18.6% of Grand County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field, making septic feasibility an early purchase contingency24. Grand County averages about 11.9 inches of annual precipitation and has experienced severe drought in about 34.3% of years, reinforcing the need to verify dependable legal water3536. A parcel touching a mapped Special Flood Hazard Area may require floodplain documents and elevation certificates31.

Watch-outs

  • A building-permit exemption does not waive Grand County's zoning development permit or allow work that violates other codes1.
  • Camping outside a permitted recreational vehicle park, campground, or travel-trailer park is prohibited in every Grand County zone7.
  • Only about 18.6% of Grand County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so confirm septic feasibility before closing24.
  • A parcel touching the Special Flood Hazard Area can require a floodplain permit and elevation certificates in addition to the building permit31.
  • Grand County allows short-term rentals and overnight accommodations only in its Overnight Accommodations Overlay zone, which a developer must apply for as a rezone, so do not buy unincorporated land counting on nightly-rental income37.

Sources

  1. Building Permit Process, quoted and re-checked
  2. Grand County Land Use & Development Management Code Rewrite RFP, quoted and re-checked
  3. Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  4. Southeast Utah Health Department, quoted and re-checked
  5. Onsite Wastewater (Septic) - Southeast UT Health, quoted and re-checked
  6. Adopted Grand County High Density Housing Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  7. Code Enforcement, quoted and re-checked
  8. Accommodating Tiny Houses in the Grand County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  9. Accommodating Tiny Houses in the Grand County Land Use Code, quoted and re-checked
  10. Owner / Builder Certification Agreement to Comply with the Construction Trades Licensing Act, quoted and re-checked
  11. Utah Code Title 58, Chapter 55, Construction Trades Licensing Act exemptions (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. Water Well Drilling Information, quoted and re-checked
  13. Grand County Planning & Zoning Department (grandcountyutah.net)
  14. Building Inspector, quoted and re-checked
  15. Grand County Building Department (grandcountyutah.net)
  16. Utah Code § 15A-2-103, effective July 1, 2026, quoted and re-checked
  17. Building Permit Process, quoted and re-checked
  18. Maps | Grand County, UT, quoted and re-checked
  19. Article 3: USE REGULATIONS - County of Grand, UT, quoted and re-checked
  20. Internal Accessory Dwelling Unit (IADU) Application and Associated Deed Restriction, quoted and re-checked
  21. Agricultural Exemption Acknowledgement, quoted and re-checked
  22. Southeast Utah Health Department — Moab Office (seuhealth.gov)
  23. R317-4 Onsite Wastewater Systems, quoted and re-checked
  24. 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
  25. grandcountyutah.net, quoted and re-checked
  26. Onsite Wastewater (Septic) - Southeast UT Health, quoted and re-checked
  27. Code Enforcement, quoted and re-checked
  28. Article 3: USE REGULATIONS - County of Grand, UT, quoted and re-checked
  29. Camping, quoted and re-checked
  30. Grand County Land Use & Development Management Code Rewrite RFP (2026 county census)
  31. FEMA/Floodplain Administration | Grand County, UT, quoted and re-checked
  32. Grand County Floodplain Administration (grandcountyutah.net)
  33. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  34. Grand County, Utah Commercial New Construction, Additions, Change of Use, and Alterations Permit Submittal Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  35. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Moab Area Affordable Housing Plan, quoted and re-checked

Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleGrand CountyEmery CountyCarbon CountyUintah CountyWayne CountySan Juan CountyDuchesne County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedLimitedRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsSoutheast Utah Health Dept.Southeast Utah Health Dept.Southeast Utah Health DistrictTriCounty Health Dept.Central Utah Public Health Dept.County Health Dept.TriCounty Health Dept.

County locator

Grand County in Utah

49
County map
Grand County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Grand County scores

Seclusion87100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency2898% ev.
Admin Boringness34100% ev.
Durability37100% ev.
Property Autonomy60100% ev.
Carry Cost7596% 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 →

$586kTypical home
0.4%Property tax
$1,110Land / acre
11.9"Annual rain
34.3% of yrsSevere drought
21.3 / yr (+15.9)Mid-century 100°F days
32.8 daysMid-century dry spell
0.78" (+6.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.15×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,060Home insurance / yr
2.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.39%Nonrenewal rate
single ZIP shrunk to state medianInsurance basis
741Radius comparison (15 mi)
2.6People / sq mi
73.7%Federal land
59.8%Land at 15% slope or less
18.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
253,413 acWorkable land screen
24.7%Wooded land
13.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
51.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Grand 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 Castle Valley

Answers from the rulebook for Grand County

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

Grand County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, movement, improvement, removal, conversion, demolition, or occupancy change involving buildings or structures and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems in Grand County, including Castle Valley and unincorporated areas.

    • A permit is generally required before covered work begins.
    • Permit exemptions include one-story detached accessory structures other than storm shelters with floor area not exceeding 200 square feet; fences not over 7 feet high; retaining walls retaining less than 4 feet of unbalanced fill unless supporting a surcharge or requiring design under Section R404.4; certain water tanks not exceeding 5,000 gallons and with height-to-diameter or width ratio not exceeding 2:1; sidewalks and driveways; painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work; prefabricated swimming pools less than 24 inches deep; swings and other playground equipment; qualifying window awnings projecting no more than 54 inches and requiring no additional support; and qualifying decks not more than 30 inches above grade, not requiring guardrails, and not serving the required exit door under Section R311.4.
    • Additional listed exemptions apply to specified temporary decorative lighting, receptacle reinstallation, same-location overcurrent-device replacement, certain low-voltage electrical work, minor electrical repairs, portable heating/cooking/clothes-drying appliances, certain minor gas repairs, portable fuel-cell appliances, portable heating/ventilation/cooling appliances, certain piping within heating or cooling equipment, minor mechanical repairs, portable evaporative coolers, certain small self-contained refrigeration systems, and specified plumbing leak or stoppage repairs.
    • Exemption from permit requirements does not authorize work that violates the building code or other applicable laws or ordinances.
    • While building permits are not required for listed exempt work, zoning development permits are required.
    • Residential new-construction applications require a $130 plan-review deposit; solar applications require a $65 plan-review deposit; commercial applications require a $260 non-refundable plan-review deposit, or for large commercial new construction a deposit equal to 10% of the estimated building permit fee.
    • All work must be performed by a Utah State licensed contractor under the county's Building Permit Process page, subject to the owner-builder certification described in the separate official form.

    residential new-construction plan-review deposit: 130 USD · solar plan-review deposit: 65 USD · commercial plan-review deposit: 260 USD (Large commercial new construction uses 10% of the estimated building permit fee.) · detached accessory structure exemption floor area: <= 200 square feet (Does not apply to storm shelters.) · fence exemption height: <= 7 feet · retaining-wall exemption unbalanced fill: < 4 feet (Not exempt if supporting a surcharge or requiring design under Section R404.4.) · water-tank exemption capacity: <= 5000 gallons (Height-to-diameter or width ratio must not exceed 2:1.) · window-awning exemption projection: <= 54 inches (Must be supported by an exterior wall and require no additional support.) · deck exemption height: <= 30 inches (Must not require guardrails and must not serve the required exit door under Section R311.4.)

    “A Building Permit is required before you erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or demolish any building or structure in Grand County.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction regulated by the Grand County Building Department throughout Grand County, including Castle Valley and unincorporated areas.

    • The county conducts scheduled inspections during each phase of construction.
    • The department's building-related functions cover all of Grand County, including Castle Valley and unincorporated areas.
    • Inspection scheduling and phase requirements may vary by project and applicable code.
    “This department performs building-related functions for all of Grand County, including Castle Valley and unincorporated areas. [...] Conduct scheduled inspections during each phase of construction”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    New construction and changes of use or occupancy in Grand County when the structure is ready to be occupied.

    • A written Certificate of Occupancy must be issued before the completed building can be used.
    • The certificate is issued when construction or work is completed and the structure is ready to be occupied.
    • Inspectors must verify compliance with applicable codes before issuance.
    • The Building Inspector's Office may require other inspections to assure compliance with the laws and ordinances of the jurisdiction.
    “When the construction or work is completed and the structure is ready to be occupied, a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued. The completed building cannot be used until a written Certificate of Occupancy has been issued.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Grand County land-use regulation and zoning in the unincorporated area of the county.

    • The county administers land-use regulations across its county jurisdiction, including unincorporated communities; incorporated municipalities have their own local authority and rules.
    • The county provides a zoning map identifying county zoning districts.
    • County map materials are informational and users are directed to check with the local elected official for official information.
    “WHEREAS, Utah Code § 17-27a-102 enables a county to enact all ordinances, resolutions, and rules and various 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;”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning within Grand County, aggregated across county-regulated unincorporated areas and separately administered incorporated municipalities.

    • Grand County administers zoning and land-use controls in unincorporated areas through its Land Use Code and zoning districts.
    • The county ordinance states that county land-use controls apply to land within the unincorporated area of the county.
    • Moab City and the Town of Castle Valley are incorporated municipalities identified separately by Grand County; their local zoning rules must be checked with the respective municipal authorities.
    • The cited HDHO overlay applies only to property within the HDHO boundaries upon application to and approval by the County Council; approved HDHO zoning, development agreement, and master plan control development of the property.
    “All development in the City of Moab is governed by Titles 12, 15, 16, and 17 of the Moab Municipal Code (MMC). Planning and Zoning staff members enforce pertinent sections of the Moab Municipal Code.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning and land-use regulation administered by Grand County in unincorporated Grand County.
      “WHEREAS, the previously named Grand County Council adopted the Grand County Land Use Code (“LUC”) on January 4, 1999 with Ordinance No. 299, as amended, for the purpose of regulating land use, subdivision and development in Grand County in accordance with the General Plan;”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate zoning status across Grand County, including Grand County zoning in unincorporated areas and Moab City zoning within municipal limits.
      “TJ Moab Enterprises LLC is the owner of the parcel of land located at approximately 1082 South Highway 191 in unincorporated Grand County. The total size of the property to be annexed is approximately .52 acres. The current Grand County zoning district for the property is HC Highway Commercial, with an existing commercial use. If the property were to be annexed into the City of Moab jurisdiction, the applicant has requested they be designated in C-4 General Commercial Zone.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Zoning districts administered by Grand County for applicable unincorporated county areas.

    • The official county Maps page provides a Zoning Map PDF identified as showing the county's zoning districts.
    • Incorporated areas may be subject to municipal zoning administered by the City of Moab or Town of Castle Valley.
    “Zoning Map (PDF) Discover the zoning districts of the county.”
  • Living in an RVAllowed (with conditions)

    RV camping at designated Sand Flats Recreation Area campsites.

    • Camping is limited to designated sites.
    • Campgrounds Alcove, Bobcat, Echo, and Juniper have campsites suitable for RVs but no hookups.
    • Only 30 of 140 individual campsites can accommodate RVs 35-40 feet in length.
    • No campsite can accommodate vehicles longer than 40 feet.
    • All posted rules apply.

    maximum RV length: 35-40 feet (No campsites accommodate vehicles longer than 40 feet)

    “Campgrounds Alcove (A), Bobcat (B), Echo (E), and Juniper have campsites suitable for RVs but there are no hook- ups. Please note out of 140 individual campsites 30 can accommodate RVs 35-40 feet in length. There are no campsites that can accommodate vehicles longer than 40 feet.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Prohibited — Camping involving an RV outside a permitted Recreational Vehicle Park, Campground, or Travel Trailer Park in Grand County.
      “Camping outside of permitted areas in Grand County is prohibited in all zones.”
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Recreational vehicle or travel-trailer occupancy within a manufactured housing park in Grand County.
      “Recreational Vehicles/Travel Trailers. Recreational vehicles/travel trailers shall be allowed in any manufactured housing park subject to the requirements of this subsection. [...] Each recreational vehicle/travel trailer shall be placed on a 4 inch concrete or gravel pad. No recreational vehicle/travel trailer with a footprint larger than the pad shall be placed on a site.”
  • Camping on your landProhibited

    Camping outside permitted areas in Grand County.

    • The prohibition applies in all zones.
    • The landowner allowing the camping is treated as the responsible party for enforcement.
    “Camping outside of a permitted Recreational Vehicle Park, Campground, or Travel Trailer Park is prohibited in all zones.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Temporary camping at designated Sand Flats Recreation Area campsites.
      “Camping is in designated sites only, and visitors are required to abide by all posted rules. Sand Flats has over 140 individual campsites in eight campgrounds marked 'A' through ‘G’ and Juniper. Campsites cannot be reserved, but are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.”
    • Prohibited — Camping outside permitted areas in Grand County, including unincorporated areas.
      “Camping outside of permitted areas in Grand County is prohibited in all zones.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny homes addressed in the Grand County Land Use Code staff report, including IRC-approved primary residences, ADUs, HUD-approved units, and non-IRC/non-HUD units in commercial campgrounds.

    • The official county staff report states that certain categories can be permitted as primary residences on approved lots, as ADUs with use-specific standards, or within commercial campgrounds.
    • The report states that non-IRC/non-HUD units are accommodated only by commercial RV/campgrounds.
    • The source is a 2016 planning staff report and does not itself establish later amendments or current parcel-specific approvals.
    • Building, zoning, health, utility, and campground requirements may also apply.
    “Although certain sub-categories of “tiny homes” can be permitted in Grand County as primary residences on approved lots (1 or 4 in Table 1), ADUs with use-specific standards (2 or 4 in Table 1), or within commercial campgrounds (3 or 5 in Table 1), there is potential to further specify, and in some cases modify, regulations in order to better accommodate “tiny homes” in the LUC (see Table 2).”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    HUD-approved tiny homes treated as manufactured homes under the Grand County land-use discussion.

    • The official county staff report states that HUD-approved tiny homes use the same regulations as other manufactured homes.
    • This source does not establish that every manufactured home is allowed on every parcel.
    • Zoning district, siting, building, utility, septic, and other applicable approvals remain unresolved.
    “Moderate: GC permits HUD approved “tiny homes” using the same regulations as other manufactured homes”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwelling units as accessory uses to otherwise allowed residential dwelling units in Grand County residential zone districts.

    • The principal residential dwelling must be an otherwise allowed use.
    • The lot or parcel must be at least 5,000 square feet.
    • Only one accessory dwelling unit is permitted per lot or parcel of record.
    • The ADU must meet the setback and building-height requirements applicable to the principal structure in the underlying zone district.
    • The ADU may not exceed 1,000 square feet.
    • A scaled site plan showing existing and proposed structures, building elevation, color and materials, setbacks, parking, easements, and driveways is required before issuance of a building permit.
    • The ADU must be a permanent structure meeting the currently adopted International Residential Code standards.
    • A travel trailer, boat, or similar recreational vehicle may not be used as an ADU.
    • The ADU must preserve or complement the primary single-family dwelling's architectural design, including roof pitch, siding materials, color, and window treatment.
    • Any separate external entrance must be screened from view of the street and, where possible, located on the internal side or rear.
    • ADUs may not be condominiumized or sold separately.
    • Neither the primary nor secondary dwelling unit may be occupied for periods of less than 30 consecutive days.
    • The owner must sign and record a restricted use covenant before issuance of the ADU building permit.

    minimum lot or parcel area: >= 5000 square feet · maximum ADUs per lot or parcel of record: 1 ADU · maximum ADU area: <= 1000 square feet · minimum occupancy period: >= 30 consecutive days (applies to both the primary and secondary dwelling unit where an ADU exists)

    “An ADU may be permitted as an accessory use to an otherwise allowed residential dwelling unit that is the principal use on a lot or parcel of at least 5,000 square feet. Only one accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted per lot/parcel of record.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Allowed (with conditions) — Internal accessory dwelling units in Grand County subject to the county application and deed-restriction requirements.
      “The property owner must occupy either the primary dwelling or the internal accessory dwelling unit. Neither the primary dwelling unit nor the IADU shall be condominiumized or sold separately, and shall not be rented to guests for periods of less than 30 consecutive days. A Deed Restriction (attached) shall be signed and recorded prior to issuance of the building permit for the IADU, affirming the aforementioned requirements.”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Onsite wastewater systems in incorporated and unincorporated Grand County within the Southeast Utah Health Department service area.

    • The Southeast Utah Health Department service area covers Carbon, Emery, and Grand Counties.
    • Utah Rule R317-4 assigns administration to local health departments.
    “Onsite wastewater systems are privately owned personal sewer systems that are installed on private land to serve individual homes and businesses in areas where public sewer is not available. A permit and plan design approval is required.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Onsite wastewater systems serving individual homes and businesses in Grand County where public sewer is not available.

    • A permit and plan design approval are required.
    • Construction may not begin until a construction permit has been issued by the regulatory authority.
    • Plans for domestic wastewater systems must be submitted to the regulatory authority.
    • If public sewer is available, Grand County Code prohibits issuance of a permit for installation, alteration, or repair of a private sewage disposal system.
    • A variance is required for a noncompliant system.

    public sewer availability distance: <= 300 feet from any property line with a building used for human occupancy (The code excepts lots below the sewer level when no public lift station is available.)

    “A permit and plan design approval is required.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation and operation of onsite wastewater systems in Grand County.

    • The regulatory authority must inspect the entire installation before backfilling.
    • Each tank must be tested for watertightness before backfilling and the test must be supervised by the regulatory authority.
    • Final approval must be issued before operation.
    • Alternative systems are subject to additional inspection and servicing requirements; inspection frequency may be increased by the regulatory authority.
    “The regulatory authority shall inspect the entire installation before backfilling to determine compliance with this rule.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid wastewater sanitation, including onsite wastewater and greywater systems, in Grand County.

    • Onsite wastewater is described as serving areas where public sewer is unavailable and requires a permit and plan design approval.
    • Construction requires a regulatory-authority permit before work begins and final approval before operation.
    • Greywater systems require a permit, a Level 1 certified professional for soil evaluation, and a Level 2 certified professional for design.
    • Wastewater may not be discharged to surface waters, the ground surface, abandoned or unused wells, crevices, sinkholes, or similar openings.
    “There are also special certifications required to design a greywater system and a permit required.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Buildings with plumbing fixtures in Grand County, including properties subject to the county sewer article.

    • Every building with plumbing fixtures must connect to a public or private sewer.
    • If no public sewer is available in the abutting thoroughfare or right-of-way, drainage must connect to a private sewage disposal system.
    • When an accepted public sewer is ready to receive connections and notice is served, private systems must be discontinued after 20 days and plumbing connected to the public sewer.
    • After the 20-day period, the applicable sewer provider may charge service fees whether or not the property is connected.

    public sewer availability distance: <= 300 feet from any property line with a building used for human occupancy (The code excepts lots below the sewer level when no public lift station is available.) · connection deadline after notice: 20 days

    “When a public sewer, intended to service any lot or premises is available in any thoroughfare or right-of-way abutting any lot or premises, drainage piping from any building or works shall be connected to the public sewer.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural structures in Grand County seeking exemption from the building-permit and State Construction Code requirements

    • The building must be used solely in conjunction with agriculture and not for human occupancy, or must be no more than 1,500 square feet and used solely for the specified sales described in Utah Code Section 59-12-104(20).
    • Agricultural use means a use relating to tilling soil and raising crops, caring for livestock, or raising domestic animals.
    • Not-for-human-occupancy structures may be entered for maintenance and repair and for care of livestock, crops, or agricultural equipment kept there.
    • Unless located wholly or partly in an agricultural protection area, the structure is not exempt if within a city or town and on less than five contiguous acres.
    • If the parcel is in a recorded subdivision, it must contain at least two contiguous acres.
    • Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits are required when that work is included unless otherwise exempted.
    • All zoning setback requirements from property lines must be met.
    • An exempt agricultural building may not be converted to residential, non-agricultural storage, or another non-agricultural use without obtaining a building permit and complying with applicable zoning and codes.

    minimum parcel size within a recorded subdivision: >= 2 acres (Unless otherwise covered by an agricultural protection area exception) · minimum parcel size within city or town boundaries: >= 5 contiguous acres (Unless located in whole or in part in an agricultural protection area) · maximum structure size for specified sales exemption: <= 1500 square feet (The structure must be used solely for the sales described in Utah Code Section 59-12-104(20))

    “In order to qualify for an agricultural exemption, the following requirements shall be met:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural buildings in Grand County that are used solely in conjunction with agriculture and are not for human occupancy, or qualifying agricultural sales structures no more than 1,500 square feet.
      “A structure used solely in conjunction with agriculture use, and not for human occupancy, or a structure that is no more than 1,500 square feet and used solely for the type of sales described in Subsection 59-12-104(20), is exempt from the requirements of the State Construction Code.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and development in the unincorporated area of Grand County under the County Land Use Code

    • The cited county agenda packet is an official county document from 2022 and states that the Land Use Code is amended from time to time.
    • The county published a later official notice describing updates to Article 7, Subdivision Standards, under SB 174 (2023); current procedural details should be confirmed from the latest adopted Article 7.
    “This revision to the Subdivision Standards is mandated by SB 174 (2023) which created a new framework for the review and approval of subdivisions.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Commercial new construction, additions, changes of use, and alterations requiring the Grand County commercial building permit submittal checklist.

    • The requirement is to show the location of driveway access on the required site plan.
    • The site plan must be to scale and also show buildings, lot and building square footage, setbacks, drainage, easements, and utility locations.
    “The Site Plan MUST be to scale showing: [...] Location of driveway access”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Construction projects in or touching the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) in Grand County.

    • A copy of the plat with the floodplain layer showing where construction will take place is required if the property touches the SFHA.
    • A Floodplain Development Permit Application and preconstruction Elevation Certificate completed by a Utah-licensed surveyor are required when construction is in or touches the SFHA.
    • A post-construction Elevation Certificate is required before issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The Floodplain Development Permit must be uploaded as a supporting document with the Building Permit Application.
    • Grand County identifies Ordinance 598 as its Floodplain Management ordinance.
    “If your construction project is in or touches the SFHA, a Floodplain Development Permit Application [...] is required.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Residential short-term rentals and overnight accommodations regulated by Grand County land-use rules in the unincorporated county.

    • A short-term rental is a residential unit rented for less than 30 days.
    • An overnight accommodation is a commercial-zoning unit inhabited for 30 days or less.
    • Grand County's official housing plan states that STRs and overnight accommodations are allowed only in the specified Overnight Accommodations Overlay zone.
    • The overlay is a rezone that must be applied for by a developer and reviewed by the County Commission.
    • The County business-license page separately requires a different business-license number for each nightly rental and assesses a one-time $500 OAO permit fee for qualifying nightly-rental properties within an OAO district that have not previously operated as nightly rentals.
    • Moab City and the Town of Castle Valley administer licenses within their own municipal limits rather than Grand County.

    maximum rental duration for short-term rental: < 30 days · OAO permit fee: 500 USD (One-time fee for nightly-rental properties within an OAO district that have not previously been operated as a nightly rental.)

    “Grand County only allows STRs and Overnight Accommodations in the specified ‘Overnight Accommodations Overlay’ zone”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Grand County building permit plan-review deposits for residential new construction, solar permits, and commercial construction in the unincorporated county.

    • Residential new construction applications require a $130 plan-review deposit.
    • Solar permit applications require a $65 plan-review deposit.
    • Commercial construction requires a $260 non-refundable plan-review deposit; for large commercial new construction, the deposit is 10% of the estimated building permit fee.
    • Payment details are emailed after receipt of a complete application.
    • Deposits are payable to Grand County via the Grand County Clerk's Office.

    residential new construction plan review deposit: 130 USD · solar permit plan review deposit: 65 USD · commercial construction plan review deposit: 260 USD (For large commercial new construction, 10% of the estimated building permit fee applies instead.)

    “A Plan Review deposit of $130 is required for all residential new construction permit applications.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Grand County building permit application and plan-review process in the unincorporated county.

    • A building permit is required before the listed construction or alteration activities.
    • All work must be performed by a Utah State licensed contractor, including work that does not require a building permit.
    • Contractors working or soliciting work in Grand County must have an active Utah State contractors license and comply with Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act Rule R156-55a.
    • Architects and engineers working on commercial designs must possess a Utah Professional License.
    • The Building Department requires an online building permit application.
    • Plans must be submitted for review by the Building Department.
    • An approved plan review remains valid from the approval date until the beginning of a new code cycle; after that, a new plan review is required.
    “The Building Department now requires an online building permit application.”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (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.

    • The sole owner may build no more than one residential structure per year on the owner's property and no more than three residential structures per five years.
    • The use must be the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.
    • A person other than the property owner or the specified volunteer exemption persons who engages in building the residential structure must be licensed if otherwise required by the chapter.
    • Incidental structures such as a shed, carport, or detached garage are covered when for the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.
    • For persons working under the owner, work must be without compensation other than qualifying token compensation and under the direction of the property owner.
    • Token compensation must be minimal compared with fair market value, unrelated to fair market value, and incidental, including meals, refreshments, or reasonable transportation costs.

    residential structures per year: <= 1 structure (For the sole owner's property and sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.) · residential structures per five years: <= 3 structures (For the sole owner's property and sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.)

    “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”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-builders performing new residential construction or residential remodeling/additions in Grand County under the Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act.
      “For New Residential and Remodel Construction: The improvements being placed on the property are intended to be used and will be used for my personal, non-commercial, non-public use and the work performed on the project must be performed by the following:”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building construction, alteration, remodeling, and repair, and regulation of those activities throughout Utah, subject to the State Construction Code's statewide and local amendments and statutory exceptions.

    • The code version cited is effective July 1, 2026 and is superseded January 1, 2027.
    • The adopted codes operate together with Chapter 3 statewide amendments and Chapter 4 local amendments incorporated into the State Construction Code.
    • Compliance is required when new construction is involved.
    • For an existing building, compliance is required when the owner or agent voluntarily undertakes repair, renovation, remodeling, alteration, enlargement, rehabilitation, conservation, or reconstruction, or changes the character or use in a way that increases occupancy loads, other demands, or safety risks.
    • The 2006 Utah Wildland Urban Interface Code may be adopted by a local compliance agency by local ordinance or similar action as a local amendment.
    • Historic-property plaster standards apply only when the owner receives a government tax subsidy based on historic status, the property is wholly or partially funded by public money, or the property is owned by a government entity.

    International Building Code edition: 2024, including Appendices C and J · International Residential Code edition: 2021, including Appendix AQ · International Plumbing Code edition: 2024 · International Mechanical Code edition: 2024 · International Fuel Gas Code edition: 2024 · National Electrical Code edition: 2023 · International Energy Conservation Code edition: 2024 · International Existing Building Code edition: 2024 · effective date: 2026-07-01 · superseded date: 2027-01-01

    “the following construction codes are incorporated by reference [...] (a) the 2024 edition of the International Building Code, including Appendices C and J”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building construction, alteration, remodeling, and repair in Grand County as part of Utah's statewide State Construction Code.
      “Subject to the other provisions of this part, the following construction codes are incorporated by reference, and together with the amendments specified in Chapter 3, Statewide Amendments Incorporated as Part of State Construction Code, and Chapter 4, Local Amendments Incorporated as Part of State Construction Code, are the construction standards to be applied to building construction, alteration, remodeling, and repair, and in the regulation of building construction, alteration, remodeling, and repair in the state:”
  • Well permitRequired

    Water production wells and regulated non-production wells in Grand County under Utah Division of Water Rights jurisdiction.

    • A valid water right must exist before construction and beneficial use of a shallow water well.
    • A Start Card, issued after water-right approval, is the permit to construct the well.
    • Water production wells include public supply, domestic, stockwater, irrigation, industrial/commercial, recharge/recovery, and open-loop heat-exchange wells.
    • Non-production wells deeper than 30 feet are regulated.
    • Construction must be performed by a licensed well driller or, for shallow wells, a licensed shallow-water-well constructor.
    • For pumps on regulated wells, a licensed pump installer is generally required, except an owner installing or repairing a pump on the owner's own property for personal use.

    non-production well depth threshold: > 30 feet (Shallow-water-well rules now regulate all water wells regardless of depth.)

    “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.”

Inside cities and towns in Grand County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Development and zoning within the municipal limits of the City of Moab, Grand County, Utah.

    • Moab City Planning and Zoning staff enforce pertinent sections of the Moab Municipal Code.
    • Title 17 is the zoning portion of the Moab Municipal Code; zoning districts specify allowed uses and area regulations for height and setbacks.
    • The City provides a zoning map PDF and a Moab zoning information map; the cited municipal-code page states that the City Recorder's Office has the official version of the code.
    “All development in the City of Moab is governed by Titles 12, 15, 16, and 17 of the Moab Municipal Code (MMC). Planning and Zoning staff members enforce pertinent sections of the Moab Municipal Code. Staff enforces Title 15, Building and Construction, that includes flood damage prevention, the sign code, and manufactured home development and Title 16 contains the regulations and standards for Subdivisions. Title 17 is the Zoning portion of the Moab Municipal Code.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Grand County
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size in unincorporated Grand County
  • Setbacks — Setbacks in unincorporated Grand County
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in unincorporated Grand County
  • Building height — Building height in unincorporated Grand 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 Grand County, Utah

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

Grand County scores 49/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 741 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 11.9″ of rain a year, in severe drought 34.3% of years and more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Grand County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Southeast Utah Health Department (Moab office). 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 Grand County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Grand County is allowed: Recreational vehicle or travel-trailer occupancy within a manufactured housing park in Grand County. Each recreational vehicle or travel trailer must be placed on a 4-inch concrete or gravel pad. No recreational vehicle or travel trailer with a footprint larger than the pad may be placed on a site. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Grand County, Utah?

Land in Grand County runs about $1,110 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Grand County?

Grand County gets about 11.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 34.3% of years.

How remote is Grand County?

A typical private-land location has about 741 people within 15 miles and 388,043 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Grand compares in Utah

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