Bolthole Index

Salt Lake County, Utah

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Salt Lake County, Utah

37Index Score / 100
#25 of 29 in Utah

Unincorporated Salt Lake County, Utah requires a building permit for most construction, issued through the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD) under Utah's State Construction Code1. The county sets zoning for the unincorporated area under Title 19, while the Salt Lake County Health Department issues septic permits for new onsite wastewater systems23. A sole owner may use Utah's owner-builder contractor-licensing exemption for limited residential construction on the owner's property for noncommercial, nonpublic use4.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for most construction in unincorporated Salt Lake County, issued by the Greater Salt Lake MSD1
Zoning
Yes, under county Title 19 for unincorporated land; municipalities use their own zoning codes2
Septic permits
Salt Lake County Health Department for systems up to 5,000 gallons/day3
Owner-builder
Contractor-licensing exemption for limited residential construction on the owner's property for noncommercial, nonpublic use4
Accessory dwelling unit
Allowed in qualifying residential zones on a 6,000-7,000+ sq ft lot, owner-occupied, one per lot5
Minimum lot size
District-specific: 6,000 sq ft in MRZ-Village; 5,000 sq ft for a one-family dwelling in R-M67
Agricultural buildings
Exempt from the state permit requirement if solely agricultural and not for human occupancy, with acreage conditions8

Who to call

Building permits

Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD), Building Services

Building permit applications, plan review, and inspections for unincorporated Salt Lake County and MSD member communities

(385) 910-5600

inspections@msd.utah.gov

860 W. LeVoy Dr., Suite 300, Taylorsville, UT 84123

Zoning

Salt Lake County Planning & Development Services

Zoning administration under Title 19 for unincorporated Salt Lake County

2001 S State St, North Bldg, Room N1-110, Salt Lake City, UT 84114

Health department

Salt Lake County Health Department, Water Quality Bureau

Review and permitting of new onsite wastewater system (septic) construction countywide, for systems up to 5,000 gallons per day

385-468-3862

788 East Woodoak Lane (5380 South), Murray, UT 84107

Roads & driveways

Salt Lake County Public Works Department

Permits for altering the public sidewalk, curb and gutter, or driveway approach in unincorporated Salt Lake County

385-468-6600

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 11, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Salt Lake County, Utah?

Most construction in unincorporated Salt Lake County requires a building permit1. A building permit must be purchased from the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District for building expansions, alterations, detached structures 200 square feet or larger, any structure with plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work, retaining walls taller than 4 feet, and several other listed project types9. A handful of small projects are exempt: a detached accessory structure under 200 square feet (120 for commercial use) with no plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work, a fence 7 feet or under, and a deck under 18 inches high and 200 square feet, though each still needs zoning approval for its location9. Utah's State Construction Code sets the substantive standard behind that permit, currently built on the 2024 International Building Code and 2021 International Residential Code as adopted for Salt Lake County10. A qualifying agricultural building used solely for agriculture and not for human occupancy is exempt from the state permit requirement, though a plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit can still apply, and the exemption narrows on land under 5 contiguous acres inside a city or under 2 contiguous acres in an approved subdivision8.

Who issues building permits in Salt Lake County, and how do you reach them?

The Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD) Building Services team issues permits and runs inspections for unincorporated Salt Lake County and several member communities11. Reach MSD Building Services at 860 W. LeVoy Dr., Suite 300, Taylorsville, UT 84123, main phone (385) 910-560011. To schedule an inspection, call the Building Inspection Hotline or email inspections@msd.utah.gov before 3:00 p.m. to book the following business day12. Fees are published for FY2026: an over-the-counter building permit site plan review runs $110, and an accessory dwelling unit review runs $175, while a larger site plan review runs $990 under 3 acres or $1,640 at 3 acres or more13.

Does Salt Lake County have zoning?

Title 19 governs zoning in unincorporated Salt Lake County; municipalities use their own zoning codes2. Bluffdale sets its own zoning, while septic permits there remain with the Salt Lake County Health Department, subject to the state flow and wastewater exceptions1415. The county's Foothills and Canyons Overlay adds rules in environmentally sensitive areas16.

In MRZ-Village, single-family lots need 6,000 square feet and 60 feet of width; dwelling setbacks are 20 feet front and rear, with side yards at least 8 feet each and 18 feet combined617. In R-M, a one-family dwelling needs 5,000 square feet; main-building setbacks are generally 25 feet front and 30 feet rear, with dwelling side yards at least 8 feet each and 18 feet combined718. R-M front setbacks have a developed-frontage exception, and taller dwellings need additional side yards18. R-M building coverage is capped at 60%; buildings cannot exceed 6 stories or 75 feet, and accessory buildings have a 20-foot cap with additional setbacks above 14 feet1920. These are district-specific standards; ask Planning & Development Services about the parcel's district, accessory-building exceptions and minimum dwelling floor area, which we could not confirm21187.

How do septic permits work in Salt Lake County?

The Salt Lake County Health Department permits new septic systems up to 5,000 gallons/day; larger or nondomestic systems go to Utah DEQ322. Installing or modifying a Salt Lake County septic system requires a Health Department permit first23. If any part of the public sewer conveyance system is within 300 feet of the property line, the county can require connection within 60 days of written notice, and once connected, the septic tank must be pumped, abandoned, and documented within 30 days24. USDA data shows only about 3.8% of Salt Lake County's land is free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so budget for a site evaluation and likely an alternative system on unsewered land25. Systems must be inspected by the department before backfilling, and alternative systems, pressure-distribution systems, and holding tanks need a yearly-renewed operating permit on top of the construction permit26. A privy or any place other than a permitted toilet for depositing human waste is unlawful in the county except under a narrow state rule, so a composting or off-grid toilet does not bypass this system27. Any domestic well also needs a valid water right and a Start Card from the State Engineer before construction, regardless of depth28.

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

We could not confirm a general rule for RV occupancy or temporary camping on private land in unincorporated Salt Lake County; ask Planning & Development Services about the parcel's district21. In mapped Zones A1-30, AH and AE outside a migratory bird production area, an RV may stay fewer than 180 consecutive days if licensed, highway-ready, connected only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and without permanent additions; otherwise county permit, elevation and anchoring requirements apply29. That floodplain rule does not establish general residential zoning permission29.

Unincorporated Salt Lake County allows qualifying ADUs on single-family detached residential lots: internal ADUs need 6,000 square feet, detached ADUs generally need 7,000, and owner occupancy, parking, setbacks and building permits apply5. Kearns City's separate ADU provisions allow qualifying units on single-family lots of at least 5,000 square feet, with no more than 4 residents; the cited provisions do not expressly define tiny homes and do not apply to unincorporated land30. RV-park certification rules likewise do not answer whether a tiny home may serve as a dwelling on a private residential parcel3132.

What are the steps to build a home in Salt Lake County?

  1. Confirm the parcel is unincorporated Salt Lake County, or inside a municipality, since municipal zoning codes apply inside city limits33.
  2. Confirm zoning, lot size and setbacks with Planning & Development Services216.
  3. Contact the Health Department Water Quality Bureau about septic approval and soil/percolation evaluation before finalizing the site plan3423.
  4. If a domestic well is needed, secure a water right and Start Card from the State Engineer before construction28.
  5. If the driveway will alter the public sidewalk, curb and gutter, or driveway approach, get a permit from the Salt Lake County Public Works Department first35.
  6. Apply to MSD Building Services; confirm eligibility if using the owner-builder contractor-licensing exemption114.
  7. Schedule and pass each required inspection, and do not backfill the septic system until the Health Department approves it1226.
  8. Obtain all departmental approvals and final inspection approval and/or a certificate of occupancy before using or occupying the home36. For projects requiring special inspections, hire an independent inspection agency and submit the required forms before building permit issuance; MSD must accept all special inspection reports, including the final report, before issuing the certificate of occupancy37.

What should you check before buying land in Salt Lake County?

Confirm whether the parcel is unincorporated or inside a municipality first, since that changes which zoning code applies33. Check the base zoning district, any Foothills and Canyons overlay, and mapped flood hazards (a floodplain development permit applies in FEMA special flood hazard areas) before choosing a homesite163839. A roofless driveway or patio does not need a building permit, but altering a public sidewalk, curb and gutter, or driveway approach requires a Salt Lake County Public Works permit before work begins40. A connection to a state highway instead requires a conditional access permit from UDOT41. Get a septic site evaluation early: only about 3.8% of the county's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field25. Typical property tax bills run around $2,726 a year at an effective rate near 0.6%4243.

Dividing unincorporated Salt Lake County land is regulated under Title 18; ask the MSD Planning Team for current subdivision requirements rather than relying on the proposed replacement ordinance444546. The County Surveyor must approve subdivision plats before recording, and the Health Department must approve subdivision water and sewer arrangements4647. Work within 20 feet of a county flood control facility also requires a Flood Control Permit48.

Watch-outs

  • We could not confirm minimum dwelling floor area or general RV and temporary-camping permission for unincorporated Salt Lake County; ask Planning & Development Services about the parcel before planning residential occupancy21.
  • R-M lot size, coverage and height limits are district-specific, and Kearns City's ADU provisions do not establish tiny-home permission on unincorporated Salt Lake County land7192030.

Sources

  1. Building Services, quoted and re-checked
  2. Title 19 Comprehensive Zoning Update, quoted and re-checked
  3. Septic & Onsite Wastewater Systems - Waste | Salt Lake County (2026 county census)
  4. Utah Code § 58-55-305, Exemptions from licensure, quoted and re-checked
  5. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), quoted and re-checked
  6. Salt Lake County Zoning Ordinance Material, quoted and re-checked
  7. Title 19 Comprehensive Zoning Update, quoted and re-checked
  8. Utah Code, Title 15A, Chapter 1, Section 15A-1-204, quoted and re-checked
  9. Building Services | Greater Salt Lake MSD, quoted and re-checked
  10. Utah Code § 15A-2-103, Specific editions adopted of construction code, quoted and re-checked
  11. Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD), Building Services (msd.utah.gov)
  12. Building Services | Greater Salt Lake MSD, quoted and re-checked
  13. Building Permit Fee Schedules, quoted and re-checked
  14. Bluffdale: Land Use Ordinances (Salt Lake County), quoted and re-checked
  15. Bluffdale: Septic & Onsite Wastewater Systems (Salt Lake County), quoted and re-checked
  16. Title 19 Comprehensive Zoning Update, quoted and re-checked
  17. Salt Lake County Zoning Ordinance Material, quoted and re-checked
  18. saltlakecounty.gov, quoted and re-checked
  19. Salt Lake County, UT Code of Ordinances — R-M Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  20. Salt Lake County, UT Code of Ordinances — R-M Residential Zone, quoted and re-checked
  21. Salt Lake County Planning & Development Services (saltlakecounty.gov)
  22. Septic & Onsite Wastewater Systems - Waste | Salt Lake County, quoted and re-checked
  23. Salt Lake County Health Regulation #13: Onsite Wastewater Systems, quoted and re-checked
  24. Salt Lake County Health Regulation #13: Onsite Wastewater Systems, quoted and re-checked
  25. 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
  26. Septic & Onsite Wastewater Systems - Waste | Salt Lake County, quoted and re-checked
  27. Salt Lake County Health Regulation #13: Onsite Wastewater Systems, quoted and re-checked
  28. Water Well Drilling Information, quoted and re-checked
  29. Salt Lake County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  30. Kearns City Ordinance No. 2025-O-__ / OAM2025-001501, quoted and re-checked
  31. Utah Administrative Code Rule R392-301, Recreational Vehicle Parks (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  32. OPRO Accessory Dwellings (ADU's) and other dwelling types (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Land Use & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  34. Salt Lake County Health Department, Water Quality Bureau (saltlakecounty.gov)
  35. Salt Lake County Public Works Department (msd.utah.gov)
  36. Utility Connection Agreement, quoted and re-checked
  37. Special Inspection Agreement, quoted and re-checked
  38. Salt Lake County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  39. Development Application Checklist, quoted and re-checked
  40. Do I Need a Building Permit?, quoted and re-checked
  41. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  42. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  44. Title 18 Subdivisions Comprehensive Update Staff Report, quoted and re-checked
  45. Title 19 Comprehensive Zoning Update, quoted and re-checked
  46. FAQ - Surveyor, quoted and re-checked
  47. Subdivision Approval, quoted and re-checked
  48. Permits - Flood Control, quoted and re-checked

Written October 11, 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, Salt Lake County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleSalt Lake CountyDavis CountyMorgan CountyUtah CountyWeber CountyWasatch CountySummit County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Health Dept.County Health Dept.Weber-Morgan Health Dept.UT County Health Dept.Weber-Morgan Health Dept.County Health Dept.County Health Dept.

County locator

Salt Lake County in Utah

37
County map
Salt Lake County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Salt Lake County scores

Seclusion17100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency40100% ev.
Admin Boringness40100% ev.
Durability43100% ev.
Property Autonomy60100% ev.
Carry Cost46100% 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 →

$576kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$13,993Land / acre
22.3"Annual rain
28% of yrsSevere drought
9.3 / yr (+8.1)Mid-century 100°F days
28 daysMid-century dry spell
1.06" (+5.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.15×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,082Home insurance / yr
4% / yrInsurance growth
0.89%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
665,183People within 30 min
3,081,536People within 2 hr
1,014,943Radius comparison (15 mi)
1,598People / sq mi
23.2%Federal land
53.1%Land at 15% slope or less
3.8%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
13,818 acWorkable land screen
50.3%Wooded land
22.9 tonsBiomass / forest ac
49.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Salt Lake 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: Copperton · Draper · Emigration Canyon · Kearns · Magna · Midvale · White City

Answers from the rulebook for Salt Lake County

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

Salt Lake County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction projects requiring a building permit in unincorporated Salt Lake County and MSD-served communities.

    • A building permit is required for the listed construction projects, while specified minor work is exempt.
    • A building permit is required for expanding or remodeling structures, detached structures exceeding 200 square feet (120 square feet commercial), structures with plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work regardless of size, retaining walls taller than 4 feet, specified plumbing/electrical/mechanical work, hot tubs, window replacement, and reroofing or reshingling.
    • The page states that detached accessory structures under 200 square feet, or under 120 square feet commercial, may be exempt only if one story and without plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work; location still requires planning/zoning approval.

    detached structure residential permit threshold: > 200 square feet (120 square feet for commercial structures) · retaining wall permit threshold: > 4 feet (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall)

    “(A building permit must be purchased from the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District for the following construction projects: )”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction projects served by the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District in unincorporated Salt Lake County, including building expansions, alterations, detached structures exceeding 200 square feet, structures with plumbing, mechanical, or electrical work, retaining walls taller than 4 feet, and listed electrical, mechanical, plumbing, heating, fireplace, window, and reroofing work.
      “(A building permit must be purchased from the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District for the following construction projects: )”
  • InspectionsLimited

    Building-permit and business-license projects served by the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District in unincorporated Salt Lake County.

    • Inspection requests must be made by calling the Building Inspection Hotline or emailing inspections@msd.utah.gov before 3:00 p.m. to schedule the following business day.
    • The request must include the building permit number or business license number, property address, inspection type, requested date, and contact name and daytime phone number.
    • Footing, foundation, and other concrete inspections require an approximate time between 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.; other inspections do not receive a time frame.
    • The source states that failure to coordinate with the inspector may result in a failed inspection and a re-inspection fee.
    • MSD-stamped plans must be onsite printed full size.
    • The source describes MSD service for unincorporated Salt Lake County and named municipalities/towns; incorporated municipalities may have separate inspection authorities.

    inspection request deadline: 3:00 p.m. (Requests before the deadline are scheduled for the following business day.) · concrete inspection time window: 8:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (Applies to footing, foundation, and other concrete inspections.)

    “To schedule an inspection, please call the Building Inspection Hotline (385) 910-5830 or email a request to inspections@msd.utah.gov before 3:00 pm to schedule your inspection for the following business day.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Use or occupancy of a building or structure connected to utilities under the MSD Utility Connection Agreement.

    • Use or occupancy is not permitted until all departmental approvals have been granted.
    • The final inspection must be approved and/or a certificate of occupancy issued.
    • The agreement references Salt Lake County Ordinances 15.08.015 and 15.16.030.
    • Violation may result in denial of other utility approvals, licensing action, legal action, or removal of utility connections.
    “Use and/or occupancy shall not be permitted until all approvals from all departments have been granted, and the final inspection has been approved and/or a certificate of occupancy issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Projects requiring special inspections under the currently adopted International Building Code and MSD special-inspection procedures.
      “The Building Department will issue a Certificate of Occupancy only after all special inspection reports and the final special inspection report, have been submitted and accepted.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning under Title 19 for property in unincorporated Salt Lake County.

    • Title 19 determines the use and development of property in the unincorporated county.
    • Properties within Salt Lake County municipalities are governed by municipal zoning codes instead.
    “Title 19 of the Salt Lake County Code is the county's zoning ordinance, which balances property rights with the general health, safety, and welfare of the community. The zoning ordinance (also known as the zoning code) determines the use and development of property in the unincorporated county.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Salt Lake County, aggregated across unincorporated county areas, MSD member communities, and incorporated municipalities.

    • Unincorporated Salt Lake County and MSD member communities use the applicable local zoning information and ordinances.
    • For properties in other cities, the municipality must be contacted for zoning information.
    • The conclusion aggregates local zoning authorities and does not mean Salt Lake County administers every municipal ordinance.
    “The Title 19 update only affects land in unincorporated Salt Lake County. Properties located within the boundaries of one of the 23 municipalities in Salt Lake County will continue to be governed by the zoning codes of those municipalities.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Zoning districts and zoning regulations governing unincorporated Salt Lake County; incorporated municipalities use their own zoning codes.

    • Title 19 is the county zoning ordinance for unincorporated county land.
    • The Title 19 update page states that the zoning district applying to every property in the unincorporated county remains the same during the proposed text update.
    • The Foothills and Canyons Overlay Zone applies in environmentally sensitive mountainous, foothill, and canyon areas within unincorporated Salt Lake County in addition to primary/base zones.
    • Properties within Salt Lake County municipalities are governed by municipal zoning codes.
    “Title 19 of the Salt Lake County Code is the county's zoning ordinance, which balances property rights with the general health, safety, and welfare of the community.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Single-family residential lots in the Salt Lake County MRZ-Village District in unincorporated Salt Lake County.

    • The cited standard is district-specific and applies to single-family residential use.
    • All other uses have no minimum lot area unless otherwise specified in the ordinance.
    • The same district material specifies a 60-foot minimum lot width for single-family residential use.
    • The county states that Title 19 zoning determines the use and development of property in the unincorporated county.

    minimum lot area: 6000 sq ft · minimum lot width: 60 feet

    “1. Minimum Lot Area a. Single-family residential: 6,000 Sq. Ft. b. All other uses, unless lot area otherwise specified in the Ordinance: No minimum lot area. 2. Minimum Lot Width a. Single-family residential: 60 feet.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — One-family dwellings and other residential structures in Salt Lake County's R-M Residential Zone, unincorporated county.
      “The minimum lot area in the R-M zone shall be five thousand square feet for each one-family dwelling, with seven hundred fifty additional square feet for each additional dwelling unit”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Single-, two-, three-, and four-family dwellings and related accessory buildings in the Salt Lake County MRZ-Village District in unincorporated Salt Lake County.

    • Front setback is 20 feet for the listed dwellings and related accessory buildings; other uses are 0 feet unless otherwise specified.
    • Side setback is 8 feet for the listed dwellings, with total required side yards of at least 18 feet.
    • Accessory-building side setback is 8 feet, except 3 feet when located at least 10 feet from the rear of the dwelling.
    • Rear setback is 20 feet for the listed dwellings.
    • Accessory-building rear setback is 3 feet, except 8 feet where the accessory building rears on the side yard of a lot adjacent to a corner lot.
    • An applicant may locate a structure closer to the property line if the land use authority finds no additional burden on neighboring properties after addressing snow load, drainage, access, fire protection, and building code.
    • The county states that Title 19 zoning determines the use and development of property in the unincorporated county.

    front setback for listed dwellings: 20 feet · side setback for listed dwellings: 8 feet (Total of two required side yards not less than 18 feet) · rear setback for listed dwellings: 20 feet · accessory-building side setback: 8 feet (3 feet when located at least 10 feet from the rear of the dwelling) · accessory-building rear setback: 3 feet (8 feet where accessory building rears on side yard of a lot adjacent to a corner lot)

    “3. Setbacks a. Front yard i. Single, two, three, and four-family dwelling: 20 feet. ii. Accessory building related to the above: 20 feet. iii. All other uses, unless front yard setback otherwise specified in the Ordinance: 0 feet. b. Side yard i. Single, two, three, and four-family dwelling: 8 feet, with a total of two required side yards of not less than 18 feet. ii. Accessory building related to the above: 8 feet, except 3 feet when located at least 10 feet from the rear of the dwelling. iii. All other uses, unless side yard setback otherwise specified in the Ordinance: 0 feet. c. Rear yard i. Single, two, three, and four-family dwelling: 20 feet. ii. Accessory building related to the above: 3 feet, except 8 feet where accessory building rears on side yard of a lot that lies adjacent to a corner lot. iii. All other uses, unless rear yard setback otherwise specified in the Ordinance: 0 feet. d. Exceptions. An applicant may locate a structure closer to the property line than specified by the above setbacks if applicant can demonstrate to the land use authority that the structure will not place additional burden on neighboring properties by addressing the following factors: snow load, drainage, access, fire protection, and building code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings and accessory buildings in Salt Lake County's R-M Residential Zone, unincorporated county.
      “the minimum depth of the front yard for main buildings [...] shall be twenty-five feet [...] In R-M zones, the minimum depth of the rear yard for any building shall be thirty feet, and for accessory buildings one foot”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Buildings and accessory buildings in Salt Lake County's R-M Residential Zone, unincorporated county.

    • The combined building coverage may not exceed 60 percent of lot area.
    • The cited rule is specific to the R-M zone; other zones may have different standards.

    maximum lot coverage: <= 60 percent

    “No building or group of buildings in an R-M zone, with their accessory buildings, shall cover more than sixty percent of the area of the lot.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Buildings and structures in Salt Lake County's R-M Residential Zone, unincorporated county.

    • No building or structure may exceed six stories or 75 feet in height.
    • A dwelling structure must contain at least one story.
    • Accessory buildings may not exceed 20 feet; for each foot over 14 feet, an additional foot of setback from property lines is required, subject to the stated maximum.

    maximum building height: <= 75 ft (Also limited to six stories) · maximum stories: <= 6 stories · maximum accessory-building height: <= 20 ft (Additional property-line setback required above 14 ft)

    “No building or structure in an R-M zone shall contain more than six stories or exceed seventy-five feet in height [...] No building which is accessory to a dwelling shall exceed twenty feet in height.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles placed on sites within Zones A1-30, AH, and AE on the County's FIRM in unincorporated Salt Lake County outside a migratory bird production area.

    • Chapter 19.73 applies only to unincorporated areas of Salt Lake County that are not within a migratory bird production area.
    • The recreational vehicle must either be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days and be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the permit requirements of Salt Lake County Code 19.74.060(D) and the elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes in the cited section.
    • Ready for highway use means the vehicle is on its wheels or jacking system, attached only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, with no permanently attached additions.
    • A Floodplain Development Permit is required for covered development; standard fees may be charged, including engineering-review fees.

    maximum stay under temporary alternative: < 180 consecutive days (The permit-and-elevation alternative may apply instead.)

    “This chapter only applies to unincorporated areas of Salt Lake County that are not within a migratory bird production area as defined by State statute.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Manufactured homes placed or substantially improved in flood hazard areas within unincorporated Salt Lake County outside a migratory bird production area.

    • Chapter 19.73 applies only to unincorporated areas of Salt Lake County that are not within a migratory bird production area.
    • In Zone A, manufactured homes must use methods and practices minimizing flood damage and must be elevated and anchored to resist flotation, collapse, or lateral movement.
    • In Zones A1-30, AH, and AE, specified placements must be elevated on a permanent foundation with the lowest floor 1 foot above BFE and securely anchored.
    • In existing manufactured-home parks in A1-30, AH, AO, and AE zones, the lowest floor must be 1 foot above BFE, or the chassis must be supported by reinforced piers at least 36 inches above grade and securely anchored.
    • A building permit and Floodplain Development Permit are required for covered development; standard fees may be charged, including engineering-review fees.

    minimum elevation above BFE: >= 1 foot (Existing manufactured-home parks may use reinforced piers at least 36 inches above grade.) · minimum reinforced pier height: >= 36 inches above grade (Alternative to the 1-foot-above-BFE option in specified existing parks.)

    “This chapter only applies to unincorporated areas of Salt Lake County that are not within a migratory bird production area as defined by State statute.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Internal or detached accessory dwelling units on lots in unincorporated Salt Lake County, subject to Salt Lake County Title 19 and site-specific review.

    • The property must be zoned residential, including R, A, Forestry, or PC zones.
    • The property must contain a single-family detached residence, not a townhome or part of a PUD.
    • All setbacks, parking, lot coverage, and design requirements must be met.
    • Internal ADUs require a lot of at least 6,000 square feet.
    • Detached ADUs require a lot of at least 7,000 square feet, except in the PC Zone where a detached ADU may be allowed on a 6,000-square-foot lot.
    • Detached ADUs must be at least 10 feet from the rear property line and 6 feet from the main house; side-yard setbacks depend on zoning and public utility easements.
    • At least one on-site parking space must be available for the ADU.
    • The primary dwelling or ADU must be owner-occupied, with short exceptions of up to two years for military deployment, medical services, or religious missions.
    • Only one ADU per lot is permitted; ADUs cannot be sold or subdivided into separate lots.
    • Water and sewer availability must be confirmed; internal ADUs cannot have separate utility meters, while detached ADUs may be separately metered if the owner receives both bills.
    • Before renting, an owner-occupancy affidavit must be recorded and a business license obtained.
    • A building permit is required before construction or conversion, and ADUs must comply with applicable building, fire, and health codes.

    minimum internal-ADU lot area: >= 6000 square feet · minimum detached-ADU lot area: >= 7000 square feet (PC Zone may allow detached ADUs on 6,000-square-foot lots.) · detached ADU rear setback: >= 10 feet · detached ADU setback from main house: >= 6 feet · maximum owner-occupancy exception period: <= 2 years (Military deployment, medical services, or religious missions.) · ADUs per lot: 1 ADU (Internal or detached.)

    “You may be eligible to build or convert an ADU if: Your property is zoned residential (including R, A, Forestry, or PC zones)”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    New onsite wastewater system construction in Salt Lake County.

    • The Salt Lake County Health Department administers review and permitting for new onsite wastewater system construction in the county.
    • Projects with daily flow greater than 5,000 gallons per day or nondomestic wastewater flows are permitted by the Utah Department of Environmental Quality instead.

    county permitting threshold: <= 5000 gallons per day (The Utah Department of Environmental Quality permits projects with a daily flow greater than 5000 gallons per day, or that include nondomestic wastewater flows such as agricultural or industrial processing or manufacturing.)

    “Salt Lake County Health Department is responsible for reviewing and permitting new onsite wastewater system construction in Salt Lake County.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installing, constructing, altering, replacing, enlarging, extending, or otherwise modifying an onsite wastewater system in Salt Lake County.

    • A valid onsite wastewater permit or alternative onsite wastewater system permit must be issued by the Salt Lake County Health Department before the covered work.
    • A building with an onsite wastewater disposal system, a wastewater holding tank, a replacement septic tank, a replacement absorption system, or a bedroom-count-increasing remodel requires prior written approval and a corresponding valid permit.
    • The county permitting page states that sewer connection is required if sewer is available within 300 feet of the property.
    • Application materials include a completed application, applicable fees, sewer-service documentation, water-availability documentation, soil/percolation work, and certified plans and specifications.
    • Watershed projects require a watershed construction letter from Salt Lake City Public Utilities; drinking-water-source-protection-zone projects require written approval from the drinking water system.

    sewer availability distance: <= 300 feet (Connection may be excepted when sewer is not available or practicable for use, subject to the regulation's onsite-system requirements.)

    “No person shall install, construct, alter, replace, enlarge, extend, or otherwise modify any onsite wastewater system unless a valid onsite wastewater permit or alternative onsite wastewater system permit is issued by the Department.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    New onsite wastewater systems and alternative systems in Salt Lake County.

    • Salt Lake County Health Department inspects systems before backfilling.
    • Systems must be installed according to approved plans; changes require county Health Department review and approval.
    • Alternative systems, pressure-distribution systems, and holding tanks require operating permits renewed yearly and maintenance documentation.
    • The county regulation requires required inspection results to be submitted within 30 days; inspection frequency varies by system type and may be increased by the Department.

    inspection timing for new systems: before backfilling · operating permit renewal for alternative systems, pressure distribution, and holding tanks: per yearly · inspection-result submission deadline: 30 days (After the inspection.)

    “Systems must be inspected by the department prior to backfilling.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid wastewater and toilet sanitation in Salt Lake County.

    • Onsite wastewater systems may be used where public sewer service is not available or practicable, but require an adequate system constructed under Utah Administrative Code R317-4 and county permitting.
    • A privy, vault privy, or place other than a toilet for depositing human waste is unlawful except as provided in Utah Administrative Code R317-560.
    • Where sewer connection becomes required, continued use of private wastewater disposal systems is prohibited and un-abandoned systems are declared a public nuisance.
    “It shall be unlawful for any person to establish or maintain any privy, vault privy, or place other than a toilet for the deposit of human waste except as provided in Utah Administrative Code R317-560.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupSewer (with conditions)

    Wastewater service for dwellings, buildings, premises, and subdivisions in Salt Lake County.

    • Each dwelling, building, or premises must connect to a public sewer unless the sewer is unavailable or impracticable; in that exception, an adequate onsite wastewater system constructed under Utah Administrative Code R317-4 may be used.
    • The owner must connect within 60 days after written notice of sewer availability when any part of the sewer conveyance system is within 300 feet of any point of the property line.
    • The Department may waive the connection requirement for substantial and unusual hardship that does not present a significant public health risk.
    • For subdivisions, sewer service must be extended by multiplying the number of lots by 300 feet per lot; if any point of the parcel lies within the resulting extension, all lots must connect.
    • Within 30 days after required sewer connection, the owner must pump and abandon septic or holding tanks, remove outhouses, fill cesspools, and submit abandonment documentation.

    connection deadline after written notice: 60 days (The sewer conveyance system must be within 300 feet of any point of the property line.) · property-line sewer distance: <= 300 feet (The Department may waive for substantial and unusual hardship without significant public health risk.)

    “The owner of real property shall connect the building to the sewer system within 60 days after receiving written notice of the sewer connection availability, if any part of the sewer conveyance system is situated within 300 feet of any point of the property line.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Construction of new subdivisions in Salt Lake County requiring county health approval related to water and sewer systems.

    • Salt Lake County Health Department is one of the agencies that must approve a new subdivision's plat.
    • Applicants must obtain a referral from the planning agency of the municipality where the subdivision will be located.
    • Applicants must submit subdivision plans, proof of an adequate drinking water supply, proof of adequate wastewater disposal, and the subdivision plan review fee.
    • The Health Department may perform inspections, reviews, and investigations.
    • Failure to comply is stated to be a class B misdemeanor and may result in civil enforcement action or criminal prosecution.
    • If individual drinking water or septic systems will serve the subdivision, additional documentation and requirements apply.
    • Service availability letters must be issued within one year of the subdivision application, on official utility letterhead, and include the subdivision name and address matching the plat.
    “Salt Lake County Health Department is one of the agencies that must approve a new subdivision's plat (mylar). Health Department approval requires documentation of water and sewer service as described in Salt Lake County Health Regulation #12: Subdivisions.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plats in unincorporated Salt Lake County.
      “Review Subdivision Plats within unincorporated Salt Lake County, and final local entity plats (annexations) countywide. Approval is required prior to recording.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision regulation administered under Salt Lake County Title 18 for unincorporated Salt Lake County.
      “Titles 18 Subdivisions, and 19 Zoning, constitute Salt Lake County’s land use regulations. Title 18 is the portion of Salt Lake County’s code regulating subdivisions within Salt Lake County.”
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision of land in unincorporated Salt Lake County.
      “Titles 18 Subdivisions, and 19 Zoning, constitute Salt Lake County’s land use regulations. Title 18 is the portion of Salt Lake County’s code regulating subdivisions within Salt Lake County.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveways, patios, and driveway approaches in unincorporated Salt Lake County.

    • Driveways and patios without roof coverings are exempt from building permit requirements.
    • Altering the public sidewalk, curb and gutter, or driveway approach requires a permit from Salt Lake County Public Works before construction or demolition.
    “Driveways and patios without roof coverings are exempt from permit requirements. Note: Altering the public sidewalk, curb and gutter, or driveway approach requires a permit from the Salt Lake County Public Works Department prior to construction or demolition 385-468-6600.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Activities within 20 feet of the top of bank, the right of way, or the channel bank of a Salt Lake County Flood Control Facility, including structures or bridges, storm water discharges, utility line crossings, bank stabilization, landscaping, and other activities.

    • The requirement is established under Title 17 of the Salt Lake County Code of Ordinances.
    • The county page states that the listed activities are examples and not an exhaustive list.
    • The Watershed page states that the relevant flood control facility includes most streams in Salt Lake County.
    • Work altering the bed or banks of a natural stream in Utah must also obtain written authorization from the State Engineer and may require additional permitting from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
    • Work along the banks of the Jordan River may require a Sovereign Lands General Permit.
    • Salt Lake City properties may require a separate Riparian Protection Permit for work within 100 feet of the annual high-water level of City Creek, Red Butte Creek, Emigration Creek, Parleys Creek, and the Jordan River within Salt Lake City municipal boundaries.

    distance from top of bank or right of way: <= 20 feet (Flood Control Facility) · distance from top of channel bank: <= 6.1 meters (Flood control facility)

    “Flood Control Permits are required for any activity occurring within 20 feet of the top of bank or the right of way of a Flood Control Facility.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — MSD engineering development applications when the subject parcel is in a FEMA special flood hazard area.
      “Floodplain Development Permit needed if the subject parcel is in a FEMA special flood hazard area.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Published FY2026 fee schedules for Salt Lake County and related Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District land-use and building-permit services in unincorporated areas.

    • The MSD page lists separate FY2026 fee schedules for White City, Magna, Kearns, Emigration, Copperton, Salt Lake County, and Brighton.
    • The Salt Lake County fee schedule includes different fees by application type and review scope.

    building permit site plan: 110 USD (Over-the-counter staff review; permitted uses not requiring separate land use permit) · accessory dwelling unit: 175 USD (Includes limited agency review) · site plan review less than 3 acres: 990 USD (Includes agency review meeting and technical review) · site plan review 3 acres or more: 1640 USD (Includes agency review meeting, technical review, and Planning Commission meeting)

    “Building permit site plan Over-the-counter staff review. Permitted uses not requiring separate land use permit. $110.00”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A sole owner constructing on the owner's property in Salt Lake County for the owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use, including qualifying incidental structures, under Utah's statewide contractor-licensing exemption.

    • The owner may build 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 that property.
    • The use must be the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.
    • A person other than the property owner or a person described in Subsection (1)(e) who engages in building a residential structure must be licensed if otherwise required by the chapter.
    • Incidental structures must be related to a residential structure on the property and may include a shed, carport, or detached garage.
    • A person assisting with construction or renovation must work 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 to services; the statute includes meals or refreshments and reasonable transportation costs as examples.
    • The official code compilation states that § 58-55-305 was repealed and re-enacted by Chapter 42, 2026 General Session and renumbered effective 2027-01-01; the post-renumbering provision should be checked for work occurring on or after that date.

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

    “(d) a sole owner of property engaged in building: (i) no more than one residential structure per year on the sole owner's property and no more than three residential structures per five years on the sole owner's property for the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use, except that a person other than the property owner or a person described in Subsection (1)(e), who engages in building a residential structure must be licensed under this chapter if the person is otherwise required to be licensed under this chapter; or (ii) structures on the sole owner's property for the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use that are incidental to a residential structure on the property, including a shed, carport, or detached garage;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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) — Building construction, alteration, remodeling, and repair in Salt Lake County under Utah's State Construction Code, including unincorporated areas administered by the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District.
      “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

    Construction and regulated construction-related work on domestic and other water production wells in Salt Lake County, under Utah statewide well rules.

    • A valid water right must be in place before constructing a shallow water well and beneficially using groundwater.
    • A Start Card issued upon approval of the water right is essentially the permit to construct the well.
    • Water production wells, including domestic wells, are regulated by the State Engineer through the Utah Division of Water Rights.
    • Regulated work must be completed by a licensed well driller; shallow wells may also be constructed by a licensed shallow-water-well constructor.
    • The State Engineer's regulation of shallow wells applies statewide; the prior exemption for wells 30 feet deep or less was removed effective May 10, 2022, and revised rules became effective July 22, 2022.
    • Pump installation or repair on an owner's own property for the owner's own use does not require a pump installer's license, but this exception does not eliminate the well-construction permit requirement.

    shallow-well statutory change effective date: 2022-05-10 (State Engineer authority to regulate all water wells regardless of depth.) · revised well rules effective date: 2022-07-22 (Utah Administrative Code R655-4.)

    “A shallow water well owner must have a valid water right to beneficially use groundwater from a shallow water well prior to well construction. [...] 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 exemptionConditional

    Agricultural structures in Salt Lake County that are used solely in conjunction with agriculture and are not for human occupancy, and certain qualifying sales structures.

    • The exemption applies to a structure used solely in conjunction with agriculture and not for human occupancy, or a structure no more than 1,500 square feet used solely for the specified sales described in Utah Code 59-12-104(20).
    • Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may still be required when that work is included.
    • Unless another exemption applies, the structure is not exempt from a permit requirement when located within a city or town on less than five contiguous acres, or within a subdivision for which the county approved a subdivision plat on less than two contiguous acres, unless the land is wholly or partly in an agricultural protection area created under Title 17, Chapter 81.
    • This is a statewide construction-code exemption and does not establish an exemption from county zoning, subdivision, septic, or health requirements.

    qualifying sales-structure size: <= 1500 sq ft (Must be used solely for the type of sales described in Utah Code 59-12-104(20)) · city or town acreage threshold: < 5 contiguous acres (Permit exemption exception does not apply if the land is wholly or partly in an agricultural protection area) · approved-subdivision acreage threshold: < 2 contiguous acres (Permit exemption exception does not apply if the land is wholly or partly in an agricultural protection area)

    “Except as provided in Subsection (11)(b), 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. [...] Unless exempted by a provision other than Subsection (11)(a), a plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permit may be required when that work is included in a structure described in Subsection (11)(a). [...] Unless located in whole or in part in an agricultural protection area created under Title 17, Chapter 81, Agriculture, Industrial, and Critical Infrastructure Materials, a structure described in Subsection (11)(a) is not exempt from a permit requirement if the structure is located on land that is: (A) within the boundaries of a city or town, and less than five contiguous acres; or (B) within a subdivision for which the county has approved a subdivision plat under Title 17, Chapter 79, Part 7, Subdivisions, and less than two contiguous acres.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Structures used solely in conjunction with agricultural use and not for human occupancy, under Utah's State Construction Code.
      “a structure used solely in conjunction with agriculture use, and not for human occupancy, [...] is exempt from the requirements of the State Construction Code.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term rentals operated within Utah municipalities.

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

    Tiny houses in Utah RV parks; the state source also states that tiny-home permission in a particular area depends on local land-use regulations.

    • The tiny house may be allowed in an RV park only with the required data plate or permanent label and either Recreational Vehicle Industry Association certification or qualified third-party inspection certification.
    • The RV park must comply with applicable building, zoning, electrical, health, fire codes and local ordinances.
    • Outside RV parks, whether a tiny home is permitted depends on local land-use regulations and whether the structure is treated as a primary dwelling, accessory dwelling, modular unit, or manufactured home.

    maximum floor area for tiny house under Rule R392-301: <= 400 square feet (The rule defines tiny house for purposes of the rule; this does not establish statewide land-use permission outside RV parks.)

    “A recreational vehicle or a tiny house may be allowed in a recreational vehicle park only if:”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Utah counties may enact land-use controls, including zoning ordinances, for land in unincorporated areas statewide.

    • The authority is subject to Utah Code Section 17-79-101(4) and Section 11-41-103.
    • The statutory grant expressly covers the unincorporated area of a county and a designated mountainous planning district.
    • The quoted provision lists uses, density, open spaces, structures, and buildings among the subjects of permissible land-use controls.
    “Subject to Subsection (4) and Section 11-41-103, to accomplish the purposes of this chapter, a county may enact all ordinances, resolutions, and rules and may enter into other forms of land use controls and development agreements that the county considers necessary or appropriate for the use and development of land within the unincorporated area of the county or a designated mountainous planning district”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Utah counties may adopt and enforce building regulations and require building permits for construction in unincorporated areas statewide.

    • The general county building-regulation authority applies outside the limits of cities and towns.
    • Local regulations may not conflict with general laws.
    • Under Utah Code Section 17-79-901, erecting, constructing, reconstructing, altering, or changing the use of a building or other structure within a county requires approval of a building permit.
    • A county may not issue a building permit unless the plans fully conform to regulations then in effect.
    • The county permit authority is subject to the State Construction and Fire Codes Act and other statutory limitations.
    “A county may make and enforce within the limits of the county, outside the limits of cities and towns, all local, police, building, and sanitary regulations that are not in conflict with general laws.”

Inside cities and towns in Salt Lake County

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

  • Tiny homesLimited

    A tiny home used as an accessory dwelling unit on a single-family lot within Kearns City, Salt Lake County.

    • The unit must qualify as an internal, attached, or detached accessory dwelling unit.
    • The lot must be a single-family lot with at least 5,000 square feet.
    • The use is subject to the applicable residential-zone requirements.
    • An ADU is not permitted in a townhome, multi-family PUD, or other attached residential unit type.
    • The lot must satisfy applicable parking, setback, and lot-coverage requirements.
    • The ADU may not be occupied by more than four persons.
    • The cited ordinance material does not expressly define “tiny home”; building-code and permit requirements may also apply.

    minimum lot area: >= 5000 sq ft · maximum ADU residents: <= 4 persons

    “C. Number of Residents. ADU’s may not be occupied by more than four (4) persons.”

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 other minimum dwelling-size requirement for residential dwellings in unincorporated Salt Lake County.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in Salt Lake County, including unincorporated areas.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Water rights & wells in Salt Lake County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Utah’s water agency.

Closed to new supply

New water supply here generally requires a permit, an offset, or buying an existing right — a household well is not automatic.

Household wellPermit required — restricted

Utah has NO exempt domestic well — you must own a water right to drill any well, including a household well. In an open area you file a new appropriation, but because much of Utah is closed to new appropriation a newcomer typically must PURCHASE an existing water right and file a change application to move it to the new well.

Limit: ~0.45 acre-ft/yr indoor domestic (typical allocation); no statutory exempt-well quantity

Utah Division of Water Rights — FAQ ↗
  • Groundwater Management Plan valleys (Cache, Tooele, Salt Lake, Utah, Juab, Pahvant, Snyderville, Sand Hollow, Weber Delta)majority of county

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

    Utah Division of Water Rights — Groundwater Management Plans ↗

Prior-appropriation state (first in time, first in right). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Utah state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Salt Lake County, Utah

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

Salt Lake County scores 37/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: about 665,183 people within a 30-minute drive and more administrative friction around building and land use.

Do you need a building permit in Salt Lake County, Utah?

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

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Salt Lake County is limited to specific cases: Recreational vehicles placed on sites within Zones A1-30, AH, and AE on the County's FIRM in unincorporated Salt Lake County outside a migratory bird production area. Chapter 19.73 applies only to unincorporated areas of Salt Lake County that are not within a migratory bird production area. The recreational vehicle must either be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days and be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet the permit requirements of Salt Lake County Code 19.74.060(D) and the elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes in the cited section. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Salt Lake County, Utah?

Land in Salt Lake County runs about $13,993 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Salt Lake County?

Salt Lake County gets about 22.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 28% of years. On water rights, Salt Lake County lies in the Groundwater Management Plan valleys (Cache, Tooele, Salt Lake, Utah, Juab, Pahvant, Snyderville, Sand Hollow, Weber Delta) — Populated valleys managed under groundwater management plans that protect existing rights and cap withdrawals; new groundwater use requires acquiring and changing existing water rights rather than new appropriation..

How remote is Salt Lake County?

A representative private-land location has about 665,183 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,081,536 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Salt Lake compares in Utah

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