Bolthole Index

Rich County, Utah

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

61Index Score / 100
#3 of 29 in Utah

Rich County, Utah requires a building permit before regulated construction, placement, alteration, repair, removal, or occupancy begins; most buildings also require inspections, though a structure of 200 square feet or less does not need a building permit.123 Rich County regulates land by zoning district, while Bear River Health Department issues septic permits where sewer is unavailable.45

At a glance

Building permit
Required for most buildings; a structure of 200 square feet or less does not need one13
Zoning
Rich County regulates uses and development by mapped zoning district and the applicable use chart64
Septic permit
Required through Bear River Health Department before constructing, altering, or repairing a system where sewer is unavailable5
Owner-builder
A sole owner may use the licensing exemption for limited noncommercial residential work; permits and inspections still apply7
RV camping
Unincorporated-county parks prohibit permanent camping and cap a patron's stay at 30 days, except a host employee8
Tiny homes
Permission on an ordinary parcel is unconfirmed; ask Planning & Zoning how the unit and use are classified9
Private well
A valid Utah water right and Start Card are required before well construction and beneficial groundwater use10
Septic soils
Only 11.7% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field11

Who to call

Zoning

Rich County Planning & Zoning

Zoning and land-use applications, building-permit forms, and parcel-map access

435-793-2415

Rich County Courthouse, 20 S. Main, Randolph, UT 84064

Building permits

Rich County Building Department

Building-permit submissions, plan review, and inspections for Rich County

801-564-0897

beaconcodeconsultants@gmail.com

564 S Norway Spruce Dr, Layton, UT 84041

Septic permits

Bear River Health Department, Randolph Office

Septic feasibility and permits for Rich County properties where sewer is unavailable

(435) 792-6500

275 North Main Street, Randolph, Utah 84064

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 7, 2026.

Off-grid gear

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

Yes, for most buildings. Rich County requires a written permit before regulated construction, placement, alteration, repair, removal, or occupancy of a structure or improvement begins.1 A structure of 200 square feet or less does not need a building permit.3 Most buildings require county inspections, and Utah's State Construction Code applies to new construction and specified work or use changes in existing buildings.212 Electrical inspection is required; the electrical fee is included with a building permit, while electrical work without a building permit costs $50 and requires a Rocky Mountain Power work-order number.3

A structure used solely for agriculture and not for human occupancy can qualify for Utah's construction-code exemption, but plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permits may still be required.13 The exemption narrows for land inside a city or town and for land in a county-approved subdivision, so an agricultural label alone is not enough.13

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

Rich County Building Department receives building-permit submissions and directs applicants to its online form.14 The county's listed building-inspection contact uses a Layton mailing address, and the official page asks applicants to text or email for the best response.14 Rich County Planning & Zoning is at the courthouse in Randolph and provides building-permit instructions and land-use forms.15

Submit a complete packet together: the instructions call for survey information, zoning clearance or conditional-use approval, a legal description, utility documentation, a signed bid, a plot plan, and plans and specifications.1 Processing begins only after all listed items arrive and takes at least 7 days unless a problem is found.1 Rich County publishes development-application and construction-inspection charges, but the complete current building-permit calculation could not be confirmed; ask the Building Department for a written total before filing.16

Does Rich County have zoning?

Yes. Rich County establishes multiple zoning districts and limits structures to uses allowed in the applicable district.4 The published districts include agriculture, forest-recreation, agriculture-residential, residential, commercial, beach-development, manufacturing, and water-source-protection zones; parcel-specific applicability depends on the zoning map.6 Ask Planning & Zoning to confirm the parcel's district and whether the project needs conditional-use, variance, zone-change, or subdivision approval.15 Residential subdivisions in unincorporated areas are regulated, with special review treatment for property adjacent to Bear Lake.17

Short-term rentals in unincorporated Rich County require both a business license and a conditional-use permit, plus separate applications and licenses for each rented unit.18 The posted schedule lists a $200 conditional-use fee and a $300 zone-change fee, but applicants are told to contact the county clerk before paying because charges may have changed.16

How do septic permits work in Rich County?

Bear River Health Department issues septic permits in Rich County.5 A septic permit is required before constructing, altering, or repairing a system where sewer lines are unavailable, and design and location depend on soil conditions, the site plan, and percolation-test results.5 The listed fees are $840 for a conventional system, $1,040 for a commercial system, $350 for an alteration, and $0 for a repair.5

Only 11.7% of Rich County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.11 For subdivision feasibility, arrange for the assigned health inspector to be present when soil exploration pits are dug; that process does not establish a general inspection rule for every finished septic system.19 Where sewer is unavailable or impractical, subdivision wastewater must use onsite systems.20

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

In unincorporated Rich County RV parks and campgrounds, permanent RV parking or camping is prohibited, a patron's stay is limited to 30 days at a time except for a campground host employee, and RVs must remain readily movable.8 That facility rule does not answer whether long-term RV occupancy is allowed on an ordinary private parcel. A camper placed on a lot requires a written county permit, while temporary parking in an RV park is excepted.1 Ask Planning & Zoning what the parcel's district allows before moving an RV onto the land.415

Rich County's rule for occupying a tiny home on an ordinary parcel could not be confirmed. Utah's RV-park rule allows a qualifying tiny house in a park subject to certification and local rules, but does not create countywide permission outside a park.9 Ask Planning & Zoning how the proposed unit is classified.15

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

  1. Ask Planning & Zoning to verify the parcel's mapped district and required land-use approval.615
  2. Secure water documentation: the county requires State Engineer certification unless city water is available, in which case it asks for a hookup receipt.21 A private well also requires a valid water right and Start Card.10
  3. Obtain sewer-hookup proof or a Bear River Health Department septic permit.215
  4. Submit the survey, legal description, signed bid, plot plan, plans, specifications, approvals, and utility records together.1
  5. Allow at least 7 days for processing unless the county finds a problem.1
  6. Complete required inspections and display permanent building numbers before certificate-of-occupancy approval for covered principal buildings.222

What should you check before buying land in Rich County?

Check septic feasibility first because only 11.7% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field.11 Confirm the parcel's zoning district before relying on an RV, tiny-home, short-term-rental, subdivision, or agricultural plan.231817 Verify water too: a private well requires a valid water right and State Engineer Start Card.10

A sole owner can use Utah's owner-builder licensing exemption for qualifying personal, noncommercial residential work, but must file the signed agreement with the building department and still meet Rich County building-permit, inspection, zoning, septic, and certificate-of-occupancy requirements.7 About 35% of Rich County is federal land, so verify boundaries and legal access rather than assuming nearby open ground is usable.24 A driveway connecting to a state highway requires a UDOT conditional access permit and technical review.25

Watch-outs

  • Permit processing starts only after all required items arrive, and the stated review time is at least 7 days unless a problem is found.1
  • Only 11.7% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field.11
  • Permanent camping is prohibited in unincorporated-county RV parks and campgrounds, where a patron's stay is capped at 30 days except for a host employee.8

Sources

  1. Rich County "Code of the West", quoted and re-checked
  2. Rich County "Code of the West", quoted and re-checked
  3. Rich County Building Permit Information, quoted and re-checked
  4. Rich County Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  5. Environmental Health, quoted and re-checked
  6. Rich County Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  7. Owner / Builder Certification Agreement, quoted and re-checked
  8. Rich County Ordinance no. 23-6: RV Parks and Campgrounds, quoted and re-checked
  9. OPRO Accessory Dwellings (ADU's) and other dwelling types (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  10. Water Well Drilling Information, quoted and re-checked
  11. 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
  12. Utah Legislature HB0532S01, quoted and re-checked
  13. Utah Code § 15A-1-204 (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Rich County Building Department (richcounty.gov)
  15. Rich County Planning & Zoning (richcounty.gov)
  16. Rich County Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  17. Rich County Ordinance Regulating Single-Family, Two-Family, and Townhome Subdivisions, quoted and re-checked
  18. Rich County Short-Term Rental Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  19. Subdivision Septic System Feasibility Application Instructions, quoted and re-checked
  20. Subdivision Septic System Feasibility Application Instructions, quoted and re-checked
  21. Building Permit Application Information, quoted and re-checked
  22. Rich County Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  23. Rich County Development Code, quoted and re-checked
  24. Federal land share: Bolthole Index county data
  25. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written October 7, 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, Rich County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleRich CountyCache CountyWeber CountyMorgan CountySummit CountyDavis CountySalt Lake County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsBear River Health Dept.Bear River Health Dept.Weber-Morgan Health Dept.Weber-Morgan Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Rich County in Utah

61
County map
Rich County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Rich County scores

Seclusion77100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency39100% ev.
Admin Boringness39100% ev.
Durability56100% ev.
Property Autonomy60100% ev.
Carry Cost75100% ev.

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

$589kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$1,451Land / acre
17.4"Annual rain
14.7% of yrsSevere drought
0.1 / yr (+0.1)Mid-century 100°F days
25.7 daysMid-century dry spell
0.96" (+4.6%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.18×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,109Home insurance / yr
4.5% / yrInsurance growth
0.26%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
1,439Radius comparison (15 mi)
2.6People / sq mi
35%Federal land
48.8%Land at 15% slope or less
11.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
62,384 acWorkable land screen
13.3%Wooded land
38 tonsBiomass / forest ac
40.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Rich 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.

Town of Garden City · Town of Laketown · Town of Randolph · Town of Woodruff

Answers from the rulebook for Rich County

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

Rich County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, placement, alteration, repair, removal, or occupancy of structures or improvements governed by the Rich County Development Code.

    • Most buildings require county-issued permits; other approvals may also be required depending on location and use, including conditional use, zone change, or subdivision approval.
    • A temporary recreational-vehicle parking exception applies in a recreational vehicle park.
    • The 2020 Development Code states that a building permit is void if construction is not commenced within one year, the building is not dried in within two years, or the building is not completed and finally approved within five years.
    • A building permit application requires the listed survey, zoning clearance or conditional-use documentation, legal description, sewer or septic documentation, culinary-water certification or city-water hookup receipt, project bid, plot plan, plans and specifications, contractor information, fire-hazard form, completed county permit application, and a dumpster or trash trailer.
    • The 2024 county permit information states that processing begins when all items are received and will require seven days or more unless a problem is found.

    permit commencement deadline: 1 year from issuance (Permit becomes null and void if building is not commenced.) · building dried-in deadline: 2 years from issuance (Permit becomes null and void if the building is not dried in.) · permit completion and final approval deadline: 5 years from issuance (Permit becomes null and void if the building is not completed and has not received final approval.) · permit processing time: >= 7 days or more (Unless there is a problem found.)

    “shall not be commenced, or proceeded with, except after issuance of written permit”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction, placement, alteration, repair, removal, or occupancy of structures or improvements regulated by the Rich County Development Code.
      “The construction, placement, alteration, repair, removal, or occupancy of any structure or improvement [...] shall not be commenced, or proceeded with, except after issuance of written permit”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Construction of most buildings in Rich County.

    • The county's public guidance says construction of most buildings requires county-issued building permits and inspections.
    • The Development Code requires final approval from the Building Inspector within five years of permit issuance; the cited materials do not specify every inspection stage or inspection fee.

    final approval deadline: 5 years from permit issuance (Building permit becomes null and void if the building is not completed and has not received final approval from the Building Inspector.)

    “Construction of most buildings in Rich County requires County issued building permits and inspections.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Most building construction in Rich County.
      “Construction of most buildings in Rich County requires County issued building permits and inspections.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Principal buildings erected or repaired after the effective date of the Rich County addressing ordinance.

    • Final approval for the certificate of occupancy is withheld until permanent and proper building numbers have been displayed.
    • The cited provision addresses principal buildings and does not establish a certificate-of-occupancy requirement for every structure or use.
    “certificate of occupancy of any principal building [...] shall be withheld until permanent and proper numbers have been displayed”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Principal buildings erected or repaired after the effective date of the Rich County addressing ordinance.
      “Final approval for a certificate of occupancy of any principal building erected or repaired after the effective date of this ordinance shall be withheld”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land development within Rich County under the Rich County Development Code and Rich County Zoning Map.

    • Uses and development are regulated by zone and the applicable use chart.
    • The code identifies Agriculture, Forest-Recreation, Agriculture Residential, Residential, Commercial, Beach Development, Manufacturing, and Water Source Protection zones.
    • The official county code page lists a 2026 Development Code with separate documents for establishment of zones, zones and table of uses, rezoning, conditional uses, variances, and supplementary regulations.
    “2026 Rich County Development Code Individual Documents [...] 6. Establishment of Zones [...] 7. Zones and Table of Uses”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Development of land and buildings regulated under the Rich County Development Code and its zoning map.

    • The code establishes multiple zones and district-specific use regulations.
    • The code states that no building or structure may be erected, altered, or converted for uses other than those specified for the district.
    • The cited development-code PDF is identified on the county code page as the Rich County Development Code; the county code page states that the posted ordinance list is not complete.
    “For the purpose of this Code, the following zones are created to be applied as necessary to regulate the development of land, as depicted on the Rich County Zoning Map.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Zoning districts established by the Rich County Development Code for land shown on the Rich County Zoning Map.

    • The code states that zone boundaries are established by the code or zoning map, which is incorporated by reference.
    • The code identifies district variants including A-10, A-20, FR-40, AR-1, AR-2, and AR-5; parcel-specific applicability requires consulting the zoning map.
    • The Water Source Protection Zone prohibits development or activity that would pollute water.

    agriculture zone districts: A-10; A-20 · forest-recreation zone district: FR-40 (40-acre minimum acreage requirement stated for FR-40) · agriculture-residential zone districts: AR-1; AR-2; AR-5 · established zones: A; FR; AR; R; C; BD; M; WS

    “Agriculture Zone A Forest-Recreation Zone FR Agriculture Residential Zone AR Residential Zone R Commercial Zone C Beach Development Zone BD Manufacturing Zone M Water Source Protection Zone WS”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    RV parks and campgrounds in unincorporated Rich County

    • A valid conditional use permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, or improve an RV park or campground.
    • No permanent RV parking or camping is allowed; an RV or camping patron may not stay longer than 30 days at a time, except for a campground host employee.
    • RVs must be maintained in a readily movable condition at all times.
    • A park attendant must be on duty at all times of operation and registration records must be kept for patrons.
    • The ordinance was enacted July 5, 2023 and states that it becomes effective immediately upon posting as provided by law.
    • Existing campgrounds in existence when the ordinance was adopted are regulated as grandfathered conditional uses.
    • The County may consider case-by-case exemptions from specified conditions for unusual topography, access to water, or other circumstances; exemption requests must be submitted in writing with justification.
    • Wastewater must be discharged into a public sewer system when available; otherwise it must use a wastewater disposal system meeting County code.

    maximum patron stay: <= 30 consecutive days (Except for a campground host employee) · maximum campsite density: <= 20 campsites per usable acre · minimum separation from structures and other RVs: >= 12 feet · minimum restroom distance from any campsite: <= 400 feet · minimum shoreline or waterway setback for structures: >= 100 feet · minimum campsite setback from state and county roads: >= 50 feet (Measured from the property line or edge of travel surface, whichever is greater) · minimum road travel surface for adjacent county roads: >= 24 feet

    “This chapter contains the minimum requirements for the application, development, operation, and maintenance of RV parks and campgrounds within the unincorporated areas of Rich County. [...] Permanent RV parking or camping is not allowed. No RV or camping patron shall stay longer than thirty (30) days at a time, except for a campground host employee. [...] RV’s shall be maintained in a readily movable condition at all times.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary camping in RV parks and campgrounds in unincorporated Rich County

    • A valid conditional use permit is required for construction, enlargement, alteration, or improvement of an RV park or campground.
    • Permanent camping is prohibited in the regulated RV park and campground context.
    • A camping patron may stay no longer than thirty (30) days at a time, except for a campground host employee.
    • The ordinance regulates RV parks and campgrounds within unincorporated Rich County.

    maximum camping stay: <= 30 days (except for a campground host employee)

    “Permanent RV parking or camping is not allowed. No RV or camping patron shall stay longer than thirty (30) days at a time, except for a campground host employee.”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Septic feasibility and septic permitting for properties and subdivisions in Rich County.

    • Bear River Health Department serves Rich County as part of its multi-county health district.
    • Where sewer is unavailable, onsite wastewater systems and related feasibility or permits apply.
    “The Bear River Health department administers and grants septic feasibility in Cache, Box Elder, and Rich counties.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system in Rich County where sewer lines are not available, under the Bear River Health District.

    • A septic permit is required before constructing, altering, or repairing the system.
    • The requirement applies where sewer lines are not available.
    • The system must meet specific design and location standards based on the property’s soil conditions, site plan, and soil percolation test results.
    • The Bear River Health District includes Rich County together with Cache and Box Elder Counties.

    lot site evaluation feasibility fee: 200 USD/lot · water table monitoring fee: 800 USD · conventional septic system permit fee: 840 USD (Includes an $800 conventional septic system permit fee and a $40 Utah Department of Environmental Quality fee.) · commercial septic system permit fee: 1040 USD (Includes a $1000 commercial septic system permit fee and a $40 Utah Department of Environmental Quality fee.) · alteration septic system permit fee: 350 USD · repair septic system permit fee: 0 USD

    “A septic permit is a legal document required by Bear River Health Department before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system on a property where sewer lines are not available.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Constructing, altering, or repairing septic systems in Rich County where sewer lines are unavailable.
      “A septic permit is a legal document required by Bear River Health Department before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Health-department inspection during subdivision septic feasibility review in Rich County.

    • For subdivision feasibility, the applicant must coordinate with the assigned health inspector so the inspector is onsite while soil exploration pits are dug.
    • The inspector evaluates soil and site conditions and determines, if applicable, the number and depths of percolation tests.
    • The source does not establish a general inspection requirement for every completed septic system.

    soil pit minimum depth: >= 12 feet (Or until the water table, whichever comes first; deep-basement homes may require 16 feet.) · inspector notice: one week (Notice is required for soil exploration pit digging arrangements.)

    “Coordinate (one week notice) with your assigned health inspector on soil exploration pit digging arrangements so that the inspector can be onsite”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid residential wastewater sanitation in Rich County where sewer is unavailable or impractical.

    • All wastewater from subdivision building developments must connect to onsite wastewater systems where sewer is unavailable or not practical.
    • Planning and zoning agencies require septic feasibility for proposed buildable lots.
    • A septic permit is required before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system where sewer lines are unavailable.
    “Where sewer is not available or practical, the drainage systems of all wastewater [...] from subdivision building developments are required to be connected to onsite wastewater systems”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Utility documentation required for processing a Rich County building permit.

    • For sewer service, provide a receipt of payment to the sewer district for sewer hookup.
    • If sewer is unavailable, provide a Bear River Health Department septic-tank permit.
    • Provide certification of culinary water from the State Engineer’s Office unless city water is available.
    • If city water is available, provide a receipt of payment for the hookup.
    • The page states that sewer, water, electrical, telephone, and other services may have limited availability in certain county areas.
    “A copy of the receipt of payment to the SEWER DISTRICT for sewer hookup or PERMIT FROM THE BEAR RIVER HEALTH DEPARTMENT”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Single-family, two-family, and townhome subdivisions in unincorporated Rich County areas already zoned for residential property

    • The ordinance applies only to single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, or townhomes.
    • The property must already be zoned for residential property.
    • The ordinance does not apply to land-use regulations adopted, approved, or agreed upon by the County Commission when exercising land-use authority in reviewing zoning or other land-use approvals.
    • Review-cycle restrictions and requirements do not apply to subdivision applications affecting property adjacent to Bear Lake, which the County deems a sensitive area.
    • A subdivision application is a land-use application for subdivision of land located within the unincorporated area of the county.
    • A pre-application meeting, if requested, must be scheduled within 15 business days.
    • A complete preliminary residential subdivision application must be reviewed within 30 business days.
    • A complete final residential subdivision application, including subdivision plan reviews, must be reviewed within 40 business days.
    • A final-application review cycle is completed within 40 business days; if the applicant does not submit a revised plan within 40 business days after a modification or information request, the county receives an additional 40 business days to respond.
    • There may be no more than four total review cycles after a subdivision improvement plan is submitted with the final application.
    • Changes necessary to protect public health and safety or enforce state or federal law may not be waived.
    • On a fourth or final review, if the County fails to respond within 40 business days, an appeal panel may be assembled for disputes arising from subdivision improvement plans; the land-use applicant pays 50% of the panel cost and the County's published appeal fee.
    • If a final subdivision application complies with this section and applicable county ordinances, the County shall approve it without requiring planning commission or county commission approval.

    pre-application meeting scheduling deadline: 15 business days (when an applicant requests a pre-application meeting) · preliminary application review deadline: 30 business days (after submission of a complete application) · final application review deadline: 40 business days (after submission of a complete application) · maximum review cycles: 4 cycles (after a subdivision improvement plan has been submitted with the final application) · appeal panel cost paid by applicant: 50 percent (for disputes arising from subdivision improvement plans after a qualifying fourth or final review) · published appeal fee: County's published appeal fee USD (for disputes arising from subdivision improvement plans after a qualifying fourth or final review)

    “This ordinance applies to subdivisions for single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, or townhomes. This ordinance applies only to areas already zoned for residential property. [...] "Subdivision Application" means a land use application for the subdivision of land located within the unincorporated area of the county.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals in unincorporated Rich County.

    • A short-term rental business license and a separate conditional-use permit are required.
    • A separate application and license are required for each rented unit.
    • The application must include ownership, site and floor plans, liability insurance, street address, sales-tax information, local emergency contact, building and fire inspection proof, and required acknowledgements.
    • Short-term rentals are authorized in all county zones only for owners complying with the ordinance.
    • Maximum occupancy is two persons per 100 square feet of sleeping area, excluding children under four; at least one on-site parking space is required per six occupants.
    • The license is valid for one year; renewal requires certification, annual fire inspection, and a renewal fee.
    • The ordinance became effective upon posting as provided by law; the PDF shows adoption in 2026 but the exact adoption date is illegible.

    initial license fee: per 25 USD per approved occupant · renewal fee: per 15 USD per approved occupant · maximum occupancy: <= 2 persons per 100 square feet of sleeping area (children under four are not counted) · minimum parking: >= 1 space per 6 occupants (designated spaces must be on the property and not on public streets)

    “Put rules in place that will govern the business of operating a short-term rental in unincorporated Rich County. [...] Do so by requiring a short-term rental business license in addition to a separate conditional use permit issued by planning and zoning for all persons who engage in the business of operating short-term rentals.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Rich County development-related applications and construction inspection services covered by the posted Rich County Development Code fee schedule.

    • The schedule lists application and development fees, including master plans, preliminary plats, final plats, variances, conditional-use permits, zone changes, construction inspections, special meetings, engineering review, and county road signs.
    • Preliminary-plat fees are paid before placement on the agenda; variance fees are paid before placement on the agenda.
    • Commercial/industrial preliminary plats are charged $10.00 per acre with a $300.00 minimum per proposal.
    • Engineering checking and improvement-plan review fees are at cost; final-plat recording fees require checking with the recorder.
    • All fees are to be paid to the Rich County Clerk before the application is placed on the meeting agenda.
    • No fees are refundable regardless of action taken.
    • The source instructs applicants to contact the county clerk before payment for changes made after the schedule was printed.
    • The county code webpage states that the posted ordinances are not a complete list of the Rich County Code.

    master plan, 50 acres or less: 200 USD · master plan, all others: 400 USD · preliminary plat: per 25 USD per dwelling unit (paid prior to being placed on agenda) · commercial/industrial preliminary plat: per 10 USD per acre (minimum $300 per proposal) · final plat fee: 250 USD · GIS impact fee: per 4.95 USD per lot · variance: 300 USD (paid prior to placement on agenda) · conditional use permit: 200 USD · zone change: per 300 USD per request · special meeting fee: 300 USD · county road sign: 100 USD (installed by county)

    “Rich County Fee Schedule 1. Master Plan 50 Acres or less $200.00 All others $400.00”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Rich County development applications and construction inspections.
      “5. Conditional Use Permit $200.00 6. Zone change (per request) $300.00 7. Construction inspection $actual cost”
    • Published (with conditions) — The electrical fee information stated in Rich County's building-permit information.
      “Electrical has to be inspected, need a work order # from Rocky Mountain Power. With building permit, electrical fee is included. Without permit, electrical is $50.00.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Electrical inspection and electrical fees associated with Rich County building permits, subject to the structure-size exception stated in the county's building-permit information.
      “With building permit, electrical fee is included. Without permit, electrical is $50.00.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building-permit processing in Rich County.

    • All listed items must be furnished at the same time.
    • Processing begins when all items are received.
    • The stated processing time is seven days or more unless a problem is found.
    • Required materials include survey information, zoning clearance or conditional-use approval, legal description, sewer hookup receipt or Bear River Health Department septic permit, culinary-water certification or city-water hookup receipt, signed bid, plot plan, and plans/specifications.

    minimum stated processing time: >= 7 days (unless there is a problem found)

    “PROCESSING THE BUILDING PERMIT WILL BEGIN AS SOON AS ALL ITEMS ARE RECEIVED. It will require 7 days or more, unless there is a problem found, to process a building permit.”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner-builders performing new residential construction or remodel/addition work in Rich County, subject to Utah's Construction Trades Licensing Act and filing the agreement with the 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.
    • For new residential construction, the applicant must not have built more than three residential structures in the past five years.
    • For new residential construction and remodel construction, improvements must be for the applicant's personal, non-commercial, non-public use.
    • Work may be performed by the sole owner, a licensed contractor, qualifying employees covered by workers' compensation with required payroll-tax and employment-law compliance, or persons under the owner's supervision receiving no compensation or only token compensation.
    • Using an unlicensed contractor or compensating an unlicensed person beyond token compensation or employee wages for work requiring licensure may constitute a Class A misdemeanor and may result in an administrative fine of up to $2,000 per day.
    • The signed agreement must be filed with the city or county building department where the work is performed, which forwards it to the Utah Division of Professional Licensing.
    • The agreement is a licensing-law certification and does not waive Rich County building-permit, inspection, zoning, septic, or certificate-of-occupancy requirements.

    maximum residential structures built in prior five years: <= 3 structures (The form states the applicant must not have built more than three.) · maximum administrative fine: <= 2000 USD per day (May apply for violations involving unlicensed construction services.)

    “The improvements being placed on the property are intended to be used and will be used for my personal, non-commercial, non-public use”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — A sole owner performing construction trades on the owner's property in Rich County, under Utah's statewide contractor-licensing exemption.
      “the following persons may engage in [...] construction trades [...] without being licensed under this chapter: [...] (d) a sole owner of property engaged in building”
    • 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”
  • 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) — The Utah State Construction Code applies statewide, including political subdivisions such as Rich County, for new construction and for specified voluntary work on existing buildings.
      “The State Construction Code is the construction codes adopted [...] that the state and each political subdivision of the state shall follow.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

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

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

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

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

    Construction and beneficial use of water wells in Rich County under Utah statewide well rules.

    • A valid water right must be in place before construction of a shallow water well and beneficial use of groundwater.
    • A Start Card issued upon approval of the water right is essentially the permit to construct the well.
    • Water wells must be constructed by a currently licensed well driller or licensed shallow-water-well constructor, as applicable.
    • The State Engineer regulates all water wells regardless of depth; the prior 30-foot exemption was removed effective May 10, 2022, and revised rules became effective July 22, 2022.
    • After regulated well activity, applicable well and pump logs must be submitted to the Division.

    statewide shallow-well regulation effective date: 2022-05-10 (The source states the statutory changes went into effect on May 10, 2022.) · revised well rules effective date: 2022-07-22 (The source states the revised administrative rules became effective July 22, 2022.)

    “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.”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Structures used solely in conjunction with agricultural use and not for human occupancy, under Utah's State Construction Code.

    • A plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit may still be required when that work is included in the structure.
    • The structure is not exempt from a permit requirement if it is within city or town boundaries and on less than five contiguous acres, unless located in whole or in part in an agricultural protection area.
    • The structure is not exempt from a permit requirement if it is within a subdivision for which the county approved a subdivision plat and on less than two contiguous acres, unless located in whole or in part in an agricultural protection area.

    maximum area for alternate sales-structure exemption: <= 1500 square feet (This threshold applies to the separate sales-structure category in § 15A-1-204(11)(a), not to the agricultural-use structure category.) · city or town land threshold: < 5 contiguous acres (The permit exception does not apply when the structure is within city or town boundaries and less than five contiguous acres, unless located in an agricultural protection area.) · subdivision land threshold: < 2 contiguous acres (The permit exception does not apply when the structure is within a county-approved subdivision and less than two contiguous acres, unless located in an agricultural protection area.)

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

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

    • The rule applies along a state highway.
    • A conditional access permit is required whenever a driveway or local street connection is requested.
    • A conditional access permit is also required for a change in land use or a change in the intensity of existing access.
    • The application process includes a pre-application meeting, a complete application packet, a non-refundable review fee, and UDOT technical review.
    “A conditional access permit is required when any of the following is true along a state highway: Whenever a driveway or local street connection is requested. When there is a change in land use (e.g. change in zoning, site plan, or conditional use). When there is a change in intensity of an existing access.”
  • 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 or minimum dwelling size for residential dwellings in Rich County zoning districts.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size requirements for zoning districts in unincorporated Rich County
  • Setbacks — Setback and yard requirements in unincorporated Rich County zoning districts
  • Lot coverage — Lot-coverage limits in unincorporated Rich County zoning districts and planned unit developments
  • Building height — Building-height limits in unincorporated Rich County zoning districts
2 more unanswered
  • Tiny homes
  • Manufactured homes

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 Rich County, Utah

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

Rich County scores 61/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 1,439 people within 15 miles and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: thin water margin (17.4″/yr rainfall) and more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

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

How much does land cost in Rich County, Utah?

Land in Rich County runs about $1,451 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Rich County?

Rich County gets about 17.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 14.7% of years.

How remote is Rich County?

A typical private-land location has about 1,439 people within 15 miles and 1,384,359 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Rich compares in Utah

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