Bolthole Index

Wayne County, Utah

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

40Index Score / 100
#23 of 29 in Utah

Unincorporated Wayne County, Utah requires either a land-use application or a building-permit application for covered uses, construction and structural changes, unless an adopted exemption applies.1 County zoning applies throughout the unincorporated area but not inside incorporated towns, which set their own land-use rules.23 Septic permits come from the Central Utah Public Health Department, and land-use and building applications start with Planning and Zoning and the Clerk's Office.456

At a glance

Building permit
A land-use or building-permit application is required for covered work, subject to exemptions1
Zoning
County land-use districts and use controls apply in unincorporated areas78
Septic
Central Utah Public Health Department issues the onsite wastewater permit49
RV living
Campgrounds have district-specific approval rules and temporary occupancy limits101112
Tiny home
A tiny home qualifying as a manufactured home follows the rules for manufactured dwellings1314
Owner-builder
A conditional contractor-license exemption is available, but permits still apply15
Water and sewer
Accessible sewer within 300 feet requires connection; otherwise use an approved private system16

Who to call

Building permits

Wayne County Clerk’s Office — Building Permits

Building permit applications and the county building-permit contact

435-836-1302

18 S Main, PO Box 189, Loa, Utah 84747

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Wayne County Planning and Zoning

Land-use applications, zoning review and subdivision questions

435-836-1303

18 S Main Loa, UT 84747

Septic permits

Central Utah Public Health Department — Wayne Office

Onsite wastewater permitting and local environmental-health review

(435) 836-1317

18 South Main Loa, Utah

Online permits →

Roads & driveways

Wayne County Road Department

Encroachment permits for work entering or leaving established county roads

(435) 691 0173

P.O. Box 189 Loa, Utah 84747

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

Off-grid gear

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

These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.

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

For covered uses, expansions, construction and structural changes in unincorporated Wayne County, the county requires either a land-use application or a building-permit application unless an adopted land-use or building-code exemption applies.1 Required forms and fees must be complete, and work cannot start until the necessary approvals, permits and licenses have been issued.17 A governed building generally cannot be occupied or used until the Building Official issues a Certificate of Occupancy, unless the adopted building code provides an exemption.18

Utah’s State Construction Code also governs covered new construction and specified work on existing buildings.19 A structure used solely for agriculture and not for human occupancy can qualify for a state construction-code exemption, but plumbing, electrical or mechanical permits may still be required and location-based exceptions apply.20 Ask the Clerk’s Office and Planning and Zoning to classify the project before treating a barn, shed or other farm structure as exempt.65

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

Wayne County directs building-permit applicants to the Clerk’s Office at 435-836-1302, and the county’s documents page provides the building permit application.6 Wayne County Planning and Zoning can be reached at 435-836-1303 at 18 S Main in Loa for land-use and zoning review.5

For unincorporated property, begin with Planning and Zoning to identify the zoning district, use category and required application, then coordinate any construction permit with the Clerk’s Office.817 The county reviews an application for completeness after the form and required fees are submitted; unresolved deficiencies prevent review and cause withdrawal after 30 calendar days from written notice.17 Subdivision-application fees can cover processing, reviews, inspections and other county services, and the County Commission may change them by resolution; the source does not give a general building-permit price.21

Does Wayne County, Utah have zoning?

Yes. Wayne County zoning governs land uses, buildings, structures and activities throughout the county’s unincorporated area, not inside incorporated municipalities.2 The published districts are A, RA, BC, RR, I and SP, and uses are permitted, conditional or prohibited.8 A use omitted from the Table of Uses is prohibited, so a large or remote parcel is not automatically unrestricted.8 In the A and RA districts the minimum front yard is 24 feet and the minimum side yard is 12 feet, and maximum lot coverage is 60% including all structures in A, RA and RR.2223 An accessory dwelling for an owner or employee is a conditional use in the A district, must share the primary building's utility meters, needs two off-street parking spaces, cannot be an RV, and is prohibited in the SP district.2425

A manufactured home cannot be excluded from a district where a single-family residence is permitted if it has a compliant permanent foundation and meets the same land-use rules, building codes and restrictive covenants.26 A manufactured dwelling erected on site must be at least 400 square feet, at least 24 feet wide at its narrowest dimension and have at least a 2:12 roof pitch, in addition to the county’s other manufactured-home requirements.14 Wayne County’s manufactured-dwelling threshold does not establish a minimum floor area for every site-built primary dwelling; ask Planning and Zoning about the proposed design.5

How do septic permits work in Wayne County, Utah?

Central Utah Public Health Department issues onsite wastewater permits in Wayne County, and construction of any part of the system cannot begin until the department issues a construction permit.9 The Wayne office is at 18 South Main in Loa and can be reached at (435) 836-1317.27 Local health departments administer Utah’s onsite wastewater rule and may impose stricter requirements, fees, servicing rules and variance procedures.28

A construction application needs the completed soil classification form, site plan, system design and the non-refundable permit fee together.29 Only 13.2% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so evaluate the proposed house site early.30 A building with plumbing must connect to an accessible public sewer within 300 feet of the property line; when that condition does not apply, an approved private sewage-disposal system may be used.16 Limited graywater-only drainage may instead use a code-compliant graywater system, but the rule does not authorize unrestricted off-grid sanitation methods.16

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

Wayne County treats a campground as at least two tent or RV sites occupied for no more than 90 calendar days.10 In unincorporated areas, campgrounds require conditional-use approval in the A and BC districts, permitted-use review in RR, and are prohibited in RA, I and SP.113132123334 These campground rules do not establish permission to live indefinitely in a single RV on an ordinary parcel, and an RV may not serve as an accessory building.35 Ask Planning and Zoning for a parcel-specific answer.5

In unincorporated Wayne County, a tiny home that qualifies as a manufactured home may be placed in a zoning district where a single-family residence is permitted if it meets the land-use rules, building codes and restrictive covenants that apply there.13 A manufactured dwelling erected on site must be at least 400 square feet and satisfy the county’s other manufactured-home specifications.14 Ask Planning and Zoning how the county will classify a tiny home that is not a manufactured home.5

Building a home in Wayne County, Utah: what are the steps?

  1. Ask Planning and Zoning to confirm the parcel’s district, allowed residential use, setbacks and land-use application at 435-836-1303.58
  2. Confirm legal access; county-road work involving entry onto or departure from an established Wayne County road requires an encroachment permit, while a driveway connection along a state highway requires UDOT’s conditional access permit.3637
  3. Resolve water and wastewater with Central Utah Public Health before finalizing the site plan.3827
  4. Submit the applicable land-use or building-permit application and required fees; construction must wait until all required approvals are issued.117 If acting as owner-builder, confirm the conditional contractor-license exemption, which does not waive permits or inspections.15
  5. Obtain the required Certificate of Occupancy before occupying or using the completed governed building, unless a building-code exemption applies.18

What should you check before buying land in Wayne County?

Confirm zoning, legal-lot status, setbacks and the proposed use with Wayne County Planning and Zoning before closing.75 Check whether road access is from a county road or state highway because the permitting authority changes with the road.3637

Test wastewater feasibility early: only 13.2% of Wayne County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field.30 Verify a lawful water source as well: a private well needs a valid water right, and the Utah Division of Water Rights issues a Start Card that works as the permit to construct it.39 Where public potable water is unavailable, an individual source must meet Utah water-law requirements and receive local health approval.38 Wayne County receives about 9.4 inches of precipitation annually, and severe drought occurred in 34.4% of measured years, making water reliability a central land question.4041 Finally, map hazards and buildable terrain: 46.5% of county land has a slope of 15% or less, and a hazard-prone site may trigger a geotechnical report.4243

Watch-outs

  • Do not start construction in unincorporated Wayne County until the required land-use approvals and permits have been issued.17
  • The county’s 90-day campground limit does not answer whether one RV may be occupied on an ordinary parcel; get a written answer from Planning and Zoning.105
  • A county-road encroachment permit costs $100 for a noncommercial application or $300 for a commercial application, while state-highway access follows UDOT’s permit path.4437
  • A potential flood, soil, earthquake or other natural hazard can lead the Land Use Authority to require an applicant-paid geotechnical report.43

Sources

  1. Wayne County Administrative Manual, quoted and re-checked
  2. Wayne County Land Use Ordinances & Resolutions, quoted and re-checked
  3. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  4. Central Utah Public Health Department - Onsite Wastewater Permit (2026 county census)
  5. Wayne County Planning and Zoning (waynecountyutah.gov)
  6. Wayne County Clerk’s Office — Building Permits (waynecountyutah.gov)
  7. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance (2026 county census)
  8. Wayne County Land Use Ordinances and Resolutions, quoted and re-checked
  9. DAR File No. 37575, Rule R317-4 Onsite Wastewater Systems, quoted and re-checked
  10. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  12. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  13. Wayne County Land Use Ordinances and Land Use Resolutions, quoted and re-checked
  14. Wayne County Land Use Ordinances and Land Use Resolutions, quoted and re-checked
  15. Utah Code Title 58, Chapter 55, Section 305 — Exemptions from licensure, quoted and re-checked
  16. Utah Legislature HB0064, quoted and re-checked
  17. Wayne County Administrative Manual, quoted and re-checked
  18. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  19. Utah Code § 15A-1-204, Adoption of State Construction Code (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  20. Utah Code § 15A-1-204 (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. Wayne County Subdivision Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  22. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  23. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  24. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  25. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  26. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  27. Central Utah Public Health Department — Wayne Office (centralutahhealth.gov)
  28. DAR File No. 39821, Rule R317-4, Onsite Wastewater Systems (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Onsite Wastewater Permit Instructions, quoted and re-checked
  30. 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
  31. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  32. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  33. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  34. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  35. Wayne County Zoning Ordinance – A Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  36. Wayne County Road Department (waynecountyutah.gov)
  37. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  38. Utah Legislature HB0064, quoted and re-checked
  39. Water Well Drilling Information, quoted and re-checked
  40. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  41. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  42. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  43. Wayne County Land Use Ordinances and Resolutions, quoted and re-checked
  44. Wayne County Road Department, quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Wayne County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleWayne CountyGarfield CountyEmery CountySevier CountyPiute CountySan Juan CountySanpete County
Building permitLimitedRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredLimitedRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCentral Utah Public Health Dept.Southwest Utah Public Health Dept.Southeast Utah Health Dept.Central Utah Public Health Dept.Central Utah Public Health Dept.County Health Dept.Central Utah Public Health Dept.

County locator

Wayne County in Utah

40
County map
Wayne County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Wayne County scores

Seclusion90100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency1898% ev.
Admin Boringness40100% ev.
Durability29100% ev.
Property Autonomy60100% ev.
Carry Cost61100% 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 →

$452kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$10,311Land / acre
9.4"Annual rain
34.4% of yrsSevere drought
19.4 / yr (+13.8)Mid-century 100°F days
37.9 daysMid-century dry spell
0.75" (+8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.16×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$947Home insurance / yr
1.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.76%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
165People within 30 min
13,598People within 2 hr
1,891Radius comparison (15 mi)
1.1People / sq mi
86.5%Federal land
46.5%Land at 15% slope or less
13.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
120,032 acWorkable land screen
11.4%Wooded land
11.3 tonsBiomass / forest ac
51.7°FAvg temp

Scout Wayne County

Camp here before you commitBook a few nights nearby on Hipcamp →Already own land here?Earn money hosting campers — get $100 when you become a Hipcamp host →

Some links are affiliate or referral links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Search live inventory elsewhere, then cost and vet each candidate here. No copied listings, account, or paid data feed.

View your full hunt →
ZillowLand & lotsRealtor.comLand listingsLandSearchRural & vacant land

Each button opens a current land search for Wayne County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.

Working estimate

—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—

A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.

Cities and towns in Wayne County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Town of Bicknell · Town of Hanksville · Town of Loa · Town of Lyman

Answers from the rulebook for Wayne County

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

Wayne County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    Uses, expansions of uses, and construction or modification of any proposed or existing building or structure in unincorporated Wayne County.

    • The county requires either a Land Use Application or a Building Permit Application; the source does not establish that a building permit specifically is required for every covered activity.
    • The requirement is subject to exemptions provided by the County’s Land Use Ordinances or the adopted Building Codes.
    • The ordinance and administrative manual state an effective date of January 1, 2011.
    “A Land Use Application or a Building Permit Application shall be required for all uses, the expansion of all uses, and the construction or modifications for any building or structure proposed or existing, and located within the unincorporated areas of Wayne County (“County”), unless exempt, as provided by the County’s Land Use Ordinances or the Building Codes, as adopted.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Occupation or use of a building or structure governed by the Wayne County Zoning Ordinance in unincorporated Wayne County.

    • The requirement does not apply when exempted by the adopted Building Code(s).
    • A Certificate of Occupancy must be issued by the Building Official before occupation or use.
    • The ordinance states that it is unlawful to occupy or use the building or structure before issuance.
    • The ordinance states an effective date of January 1, 2011.
    “Unless exempted by the Building Code(s), as adopted, no building or structure shall be occupied, or used, until a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued by the Building Official. 2) It is unlawful to occupy or use a building or structure until a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued for such building or structure.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Wayne County zoning districts governing land use, intensity, and other requirements on unincorporated lands within the county.

    • The ordinance applies to unincorporated lands located within Wayne County; incorporated municipalities may administer their own land-use rules.
    • Zoning is administered by district under the Wayne County Zoning Districts Map.
    • The ordinance is identified in the source as effective January 1, 2011.
    “In accordance with the requirement of the Act, that zoning within counties be by districts, Wayne County, as shown on the Wayne County Zoning Districts Map, is divided into Zoning Districts that govern the use, intensity and other requirements for the use or activities occurring on all unincorporated lands located within the County.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land uses, buildings, structures, and activities in all unincorporated areas within Wayne County.
      “activities occurring on all unincorporated areas located within the boundaries of Wayne County.”
    • Present (with conditions) — Wayne County zoning regulation of unincorporated lands.
      “The provisions of this Ordinance shall apply to all unincorporated lands located within the boundaries of Wayne County”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County-administered local zoning in Wayne County's unincorporated areas.

    • The cited ordinance governs unincorporated lands within the county.
    • The ordinance establishes zoning by districts and incorporates the Wayne County Zoning Districts Map.
    • The ordinance is identified in the source as effective January 1, 2011.
    “The provisions of this Ordinance shall apply to all unincorporated lands located within the boundaries of Wayne County, unless exempted by the provisions of this Ordinance, or other lawful exemption.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County-administered zoning in Wayne County's unincorporated areas.
      “The Board of County Commissioners of Wayne County, Utah [...] adopts this Ordinance”
    • Present (with conditions) — County-administered zoning districts governing land use, intensity, and other requirements on unincorporated lands in Wayne County.
      “Wayne County [...] is divided into Zoning Districts”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Zoning districts and use controls in unincorporated Wayne County.

    • The ordinance classifies uses as P-1 permitted, P-2 permitted, C conditional, or X prohibited.
    • Uses not included in the Table of Uses are prohibited within Wayne County.
    • Development standards are provided in Appendix B, and detached accessory-building standards are provided in Appendix B-1.
    • The ordinance states an effective date of January 1, 2011.

    published zoning districts: A; RA; BC; RR; I; SP

    “The Appendix A, Table of Uses identifies uses allowed as a Permitted Use”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Manufactured dwelling units in unincorporated Wayne County.

    • The 400-square-foot threshold applies when the manufactured dwelling is erected on site.
    • The unit must be constructed on or after June 15, 1976, under the federal HUD Code.
    • The unit must be built on a permanent chassis and connected to required utilities, including plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems.
    • When erected on site, the home must be at least 24 feet wide at the narrowest dimension, use exterior and roofing materials acceptable to the adopted International Building Code, have a minimum roof pitch of 2:12, and be located on a permanent foundation.
    • All appendages must comply with the International Building Code, and the unit must have the manufacturer's data plate and HUD label.

    minimum floor area when erected on site: >= 400 square feet (manufactured dwelling definition) · minimum width at narrowest dimension when erected on site: >= 24 feet (manufactured dwelling requirement) · minimum roof pitch: 2:12 (manufactured dwelling requirement) · construction date: >= June 15, 1976 (manufactured dwelling must be constructed on or after this date)

    “or when erected on site, is four hundred (400) or more square feet”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Manufactured dwelling units in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “which, in the traveling mode, is eight (8) feet or more in width or forty (40) feet or more in length, or when erected on site, is four hundred (400) or more square feet, and which is built on a permanent chassis”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Primary buildings and structures in unincorporated Wayne County zoning districts Agricultural (A), Residential Agriculture (RA), Business-Commercial (BC), Resort & Recreation (RR), Industrial (I), and Special Purpose (SP).

    • An approved site plan is required and must be approved by the Land Use Authority.
    • For BC, RR, I, and SP, minimum side-yard, corner-lot side-yard, and rear-yard setbacks are determined by the Land Use Authority for site-plan approval.
    • Required yards and setbacks are subject to the ordinance's unobstructed-yard rules and stated exceptions, including permitted and approved accessory buildings and specified projections.
    • The ordinance is effective January 1, 2011.

    minimum front yard - A: 24 feet · minimum front yard - RA: 24 feet · minimum front yard - BC: 20 feet · minimum front yard - RR: 20 feet · minimum front yard - I: 20 feet · minimum front yard - SP: 20 feet · minimum side yard - A: 12 feet · minimum side yard - RA: 12 feet · minimum corner-lot side yard - A: 24 feet · minimum corner-lot side yard - RA: 24 feet · minimum rear yard - A: 24 feet · minimum rear yard - RA: 24 feet

    “AGRICULTURAL (A) RESIDENTIAL AGRICULTURE (RA) BUSINESS – COMMERCIAL (BC) RESORT& RECREATION (RR) INDUSTRIAL (I) SPECIAL PURPOSE (SP) [...] Minimum Front Yard 24 feet 24 feet 20 feet 20 Feet 20 feet 20 feet Minimum Side Yard 12 feet 12 feet [...] Minimum Side Yard – Corner Lots 24 feet 24 feet [...] Minimum Rear Yard 24 feet 24 feet”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Maximum lot coverage for primary buildings and structures in unincorporated Wayne County zoning districts Agricultural (A), Residential Agriculture (RA), Business-Commercial (BC), Resort & Recreation (RR), Industrial (I), and Special Purpose (SP).

    • An approved site plan is required and must be approved by the Land Use Authority.
    • The stated percentages include all structures.
    • The ordinance also requires applicable culinary-water and sanitary-sewer feasibility approval, fire-authority recommendations, and clear-view compliance.
    • The ordinance is effective January 1, 2011.

    maximum lot coverage - A: 60 percent (includes all structures) · maximum lot coverage - RA: 60 percent (includes all structures) · maximum lot coverage - BC: 80 percent (includes all structures) · maximum lot coverage - RR: 60 percent (includes all structures) · maximum lot coverage - I: 80 percent (includes all structures) · maximum lot coverage - SP: 80 percent (includes all structures)

    “Maximum Lot Coverage 60% includes all structures. 60% includes all structures. 80% includes all structures. 60% includes all structures. 80% includes all structures. 80% includes all structures.”
  • Living in an RVProhibited

    Use of a mobile home, travel trailer, or similar recreational vehicle as an accessory building in Wayne County.

    • This claim addresses use as an accessory building, not campground occupancy.
    “No [...] recreational vehicle shall be used as an accessory building.”
    6 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Campground occupancy by tents or recreational vehicles in the Agriculture (A) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “Campground. An area of land upon which two (2) or more sites are established and maintained for occupancy by a tent or recreational vehicle for a limited period not to exceed ninety (90) calendar days. C X C P-2 X X”
    • Prohibited — Campground occupancy by tents or recreational vehicles in the Residential Agriculture (RA) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “Campground. An area of land upon which two (2) or more sites are established and maintained for occupancy by a tent or recreational vehicle for a limited period not to exceed ninety (90) calendar days. C X C P-2 X X”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Campground occupancy by tents or recreational vehicles in the Business Commercial (BC) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “Campground. An area of land upon which two (2) or more sites are established and maintained for occupancy by a tent or recreational vehicle for a limited period not to exceed ninety (90) calendar days. C X C P-2 X X”
    • Temporary only — Campground occupancy by tents or recreational vehicles in the Resort and Recreation (RR) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “Campground. An area of land upon which two (2) or more sites are established and maintained for occupancy by a tent or recreational vehicle for a limited period not to exceed ninety (90) calendar days. C X C P-2 X X”
    • Prohibited — Campground occupancy by tents or recreational vehicles in the Industrial (I) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “Campground. An area of land upon which two (2) or more sites are established and maintained for occupancy by a tent or recreational vehicle for a limited period not to exceed ninety (90) calendar days. C X C P-2 X X”
    • Prohibited — Campground occupancy by tents or recreational vehicles in the Special Purpose (SP) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “Campground. An area of land upon which two (2) or more sites are established and maintained for occupancy by a tent or recreational vehicle for a limited period not to exceed ninety (90) calendar days. C X C P-2 X X”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Temporary camping by tent or recreational vehicle at a defined campground on county-zoned land in Wayne County.

    • A campground must have at least two sites.
    • Camping occupancy may not exceed 90 calendar days.
    • The campground remains subject to the applicable zoning-district designation and other applicable approvals.

    maximum camping period: <= 90 calendar days · minimum campground sites: >= 2 sites

    “Campground. An area of land upon which two (2) or more sites are established and maintained for occupancy by a tent or recreational vehicle for a limited period not to exceed ninety (90) calendar days.”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Tiny homes in unincorporated Wayne County that qualify as manufactured homes under the County's ordinance.

    • The manufactured home may not be excluded only in a zoning district where a single-family residence would be permitted.
    • The home must comply with all applicable Wayne County land-use ordinances, building codes, and restrictive covenants for a single-family residence in that zoning district.
    • The ordinance defines zoning districts as governing unincorporated lands in Wayne County.
    • The ordinance states that land-use approval and a building permit are required before construction.
    “A manufactured home may not be excluded from any Zoning District in which a single-family residence would be permitted, provided the manufactured home complies with all Land Use Ordinances, building codes, and any restrictive covenants, applicable to a single-family residence within the Zoning District.”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Manufactured-home occupancy in any Wayne County zoning district where a single-family residence is permitted.

    • The manufactured home must be attached to a permanent foundation.
    • The foundation plans must provide for vertical loads, uplift, lateral forces, and frost protection in compliance with the applicable building code.
    • Associated accessory buildings and structures must comply with the applicable building code.
    • The manufactured home must comply with all land-use ordinances, building codes, and restrictive covenants applicable to a single-family residence in the zoning district.
    “A manufactured home may not be excluded from any Zoning District in which a single-family residence would be permitted, provided the manufactured home complies with all Land Use Ordinances, building codes, and any restrictive covenants, applicable to a single-family residence within the Zoning District.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory Dwelling Unit for an Owner or Employee in the Agriculture (A) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.

    • The unit may not be rented, leased, or sold separately from the primary building.
    • An existing or approved primary structure must exist before the application is considered.
    • Required district setbacks apply.
    • The unit must use the same water, sewer, electrical, and gas meters as the primary building; separate utility lines, connections, or meters are prohibited.
    • At least two off-street parking spaces are required.
    • Construction must comply with the adopted Building Code.
    • Mobile homes, travel trailers, boats, and similar recreational vehicles may not be used as the unit.
    • Land Use Application approval is required before a Building Permit is issued.
    • A deed restriction prohibiting separate rental, lease, or sale must be recorded before the Certificate of Occupancy is issued.
    • The use is conditional in the A district.

    minimum off-street parking spaces: >= 2 spaces per dwelling unit

    “Section 1709—Accessory Dwelling Unit for an Owner or Employee: 1) An Accessory Dwelling Unit for an Owner or Employee shall not be rented, leased, or sold separately from the rental, lease, or sale of the primary building located on the same lot.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Accessory Dwelling Unit for an Owner or Employee in the Business Commercial (BC) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “An Accessory Dwelling Unit for an Owner or Employee shall be connected to, and served by, the same water, sewer, electrical, and gas meters that serve the primary building. No separate utility lines, connections, or meters shall be allowed”
    • Prohibited — Accessory Dwelling Unit for an Owner or Employee in the Special Purpose (SP) zoning district in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “Accessory Dwelling Unit for a Relative or Employee. An attached, or detached dwelling unit for the occupancy by the owner, or a relative or employee of the owner, and incidental and C C C C C X”
  • Who permits septicLocal (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater construction permits for Wayne County properties administered by Central Utah Health District.

    • Central Utah Health District must issue the construction permit before any portion of the wastewater system is constructed.
    • The statewide Utah Administrative Code R317-4 framework applies.
    • Required application materials include an application, soil classification form, site plan, system design, and a non-refundable permit fee.
    • An operation and maintenance plan or contract is required for alternative systems.
    “Construction of any portion of the wastewater system may not begin until a construction permit has been issued by CUHD (UAC R317-4).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Local — Onsite wastewater systems in Wayne County served by the Central Utah Health District.
      “Construction of any portion of the wastewater system may not begin until a construction permit has been issued by CUHD (UAC R317-4).”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction of onsite wastewater systems in Wayne County within the Central Utah Health Department jurisdiction.

    • Construction of any portion of the wastewater system may not begin until CUHD issues a construction permit.
    • Before issuance, the completed application, completed soil classification form, site plan, system design, and non-refundable permit fee must be submitted together.
    • An operation and maintenance plan or contract is required for alternative systems only.
    • After submission, the soil classification, site plan, and system design are reviewed for code compliance; construction may begin only after the materials are deemed acceptable and the permit is issued.
    • The 2026 application identifies permit fees of $600 for conventional systems, $900 for alternative systems, and $200 for repair/replacement systems.

    conventional permit fee: 600 USD · alternative permit fee: 900 USD · repair/replacement permit fee: 200 USD

    “Construction of any portion of the wastewater system may not begin until a construction permit has been issued by CUHD (UAC R317-4).”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Agricultural buildings in unincorporated Wayne County that are not used for human occupancy.

    • The maximum-building-height requirement does not apply only if the agricultural building is not used for human occupancy.
    • The ordinance defines an agricultural building as a structure used with an allowed agriculture use, not for human occupancy, complying with Utah Code section 58-56-4, meeting all requirements of section 58-56-4(1), and clearly associated with and necessary to support an agricultural use.
    • This is a height-limit exception, not a general exemption from all building, zoning, or permitting requirements.
    • The ordinance is effective January 1, 2011.
    “The requirement for maximum building height shall not apply to: [...] 2) Agricultural buildings, provided such buildings are not used for human occupancy.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Division, resubdivision, or proposed division of land into two or more lots, parcels, sites, units, plots, or other divisions for offer, sale, lease, or development in unincorporated Wayne County.

    • A final subdivision plat must be approved as required by the ordinance and the Act before it may be filed or recorded and before lots or parcels may be sold.
    • The ordinance includes divisions for residential and nonresidential uses, including commercial, agricultural, and industrial purposes, except as provided in the Act and Section 107.
    • Specified exclusions include qualifying agricultural partitions joined to contiguous unsubdivided agricultural land and certain recorded boundary adjustments where no new lot or dwelling lot is created and applicable land-use ordinances are not violated.
    • The ordinance is effective January 1, 2011.
    “Any land that is divided, resubdivided or proposed to be divided into two (2) or more lots, parcels, sites, units, plots, or other division of land for the purpose, whether immediate or future, for offer, sale, lease, or development [...] a Final Subdivision Plat shall be approved, as required herein, complying with all requirements of this Ordinance, and the Act, before such Final Subdivision Plat may be filed or recorded”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development proposed on land or a parcel in unincorporated Wayne County with potential flood or other natural hazards.

    • The geotechnical report is required only if the Land Use Authority requires it for land with potential soil, earthquake, flood, or other natural hazards.
    • The applicant pays for the report.
    • The report must be prepared by a registered or licensed geologist, soils engineer, or civil engineer.
    • The report must identify site suitability, development constraints, limitations, conditions, mitigation actions, and best management practices.
    “all Land Use Applications may be required to provide a geotechnical report”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Wayne County Road Department encroachment permits involving entry onto or leaving established county roads, including driveway-related work.

    • A detailed PDF work plan, drawing or map, property description, parcel number, and construction contractor information are required.
    • The permit remains active for 90 days after approval, payment, and issuance.
    • Commercial applications have a $300 fee.

    application fee: 100 USD (Commercial applications: $300)

    “an application fee of $100.00 payable to Wayne County. ($300 Commercial)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — Fees and charges for applications required by the Wayne County Subdivision Ordinance in unincorporated Wayne County.
      “The BOCC, by Resolution, may establish all necessary fees and charges payable for any Applications required by this Ordinance including application processing, application reviews, inspections, and any additional services provided by the County or required of this Ordinance. Such fees and charges may be amended from time to time, as considered necessary, by the BOCC.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Uses, expansions, construction, and building or structural modifications in unincorporated Wayne County.

    • Applications must use the applicable forms available from the Wayne County Treasurer/Recorder.
    • The Treasurer/Recorder determines completeness after reviewing the form and payment of all required fees.
    • Incomplete applications are not considered by the Land Use Authority until deficiencies are corrected.
    • If deficiencies are not corrected within 30 calendar days after written notice, the application is deemed withdrawn and returned with applicable fees.
    • No use, activity, or construction may commence until required approvals, permits, and licenses are issued.

    deficiency correction period: 30 calendar days

    “located within the unincorporated areas of Wayne County (“County”), unless exempt”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    A sole property owner engaging in specified residential construction activities in Utah, including Wayne County.

    • The sole owner may build no more than one residential structure per year on the sole owner's property.
    • The sole owner may build no more than three residential structures per five years on the sole owner's 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 such as a shed, carport, or detached garage are covered when built for the sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.
    • The exemption concerns licensure under Utah's Construction Trades Licensing Act and does not establish an exemption from county building permits, inspections, certificates of occupancy, or other approvals.

    residential structures per year: <= 1 structure (Sole owner's property and sole owner's noncommercial, nonpublic use.) · residential structures per five years: <= 3 structures (Sole owner's property and 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”
    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) — State Construction Code requirements applicable to new construction and specified work on existing buildings in Wayne County and throughout Utah.
      “The State Construction Code is the construction codes adopted with any modifications [...] that the state and each political subdivision of the state shall follow.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Large Underground Wastewater Systems (LUWDS) operating under Utah operating permits.

    • The annual inspection-report requirement applies to LUWDS operating permits.
    • The report is due August 1st of every year.
    • The source does not establish that the same annual inspection requirement applies to every residential or small onsite wastewater system.

    inspection report frequency: annual · annual inspection report due date: August 1

    “All Large Underground Wastewater Systems (LUWDS) have a responsibility under their Operating Permits to submit an Annual Inspection Report, due August 1st of every year.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Conventional onsite wastewater systems statewide, including systems in Wayne County.
      “A septic tank that receives normal loading should be inspected as indicated in Section R317-4-11 to determine if it needs emptying. Although there are wide differences in the rate that sludge and scum accumulate in tanks, a septic tank for a private residence will generally require emptying every three to five years. Actual measurement of scum and sludge accumulation is the only sure way to determine when a tank needs to be emptied.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid sanitation for buildings with plumbing fixtures or drainage piping in Wayne County.

    • If a public sewer is accessible and within 300 feet of the property line, connection is required.
    • If that sewer condition does not apply, an approved private sewage disposal system under UAC R317-4 may be used.
    • Graywater-only sanitary drainage from bathtubs, showers, lavatories, clothes washers, and laundry trays may use a system complying with IRC Sections P2910 or P2911 instead of a public sewer or private sewage disposal system.
    • The cited rule does not establish unrestricted permission for all off-grid sanitation methods.

    public sewer distance threshold: <= 300 feet from property line (connection requirement applies when sewer is accessible) · approved private sewage disposal: required alternative where public sewer connection is not required (must comply with UAC R317-4)

    “or an approved private sewage disposal system”
  • Well permitRequired

    Drilling, construction, deepening, repair, renovation, replacement, or abandonment of regulated water wells in Wayne County, including all water production wells at any depth and non-production wells deeper than 30 feet.

    • The work must be permitted by the Utah Division of Water Rights and completed by a licensed well driller.
    • Water production wells at any depth, including domestic, irrigation, stockwater, public supply, commercial, industrial, open-loop heat exchange, open-loop heat exchange injection, and recharge-recovery wells, are covered.
    • Non-production wells completed to a depth greater than 30 feet are covered, including cathodic protection, certain closed-loop heat exchange, monitor, piezometer, test, and other potentially aquifer-interfering wells.
    • Cleaning, development, testing, and disinfection are regulated but do not require a permit; they must be completed by a licensed well driller or licensed pump installer.
    • Pump installation and repair are regulated but do not require a permit, subject to the rule's licensing requirements and the exemption for a person working on their own well on their own property for their own use.
    • Non-production wells completed to a final depth of 30 feet or less are excluded from regulation under R655-4.
    • High-temperature geothermal wells are excluded from R655-4 but remain subject to Utah Code Title 73, Chapter 22 and state engineer Rule R655-1; drilling and construction still require a current well driller's license.
    • Water appropriation approval may also be required for diversion and beneficial use of groundwater from production wells.

    non-production well depth threshold: > 30 feet (Non-production wells at 30 feet or less are excluded from R655-4.) · water production well depth: any depth

    “The drilling, construction, deepening, repair, renovation, replacement, or abandonment of the following types of wells [...] must be permitted by the Utah Division of Water Rights”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Water production wells, including domestic wells, and regulated non-production wells in Wayne County.
      “A Start Card is issued upon approval of the water right, which is essentially the permit to construct the well.”
    • 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.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Buildings with plumbing fixtures and premises with drainage piping in Wayne County.

    • A public sewer connection is required when the sewer is accessible and within 300 feet of the property line.
    • Otherwise, an approved private sewage disposal system under UAC R317-4 may be used.
    • Where potable public water is unavailable, an individual potable water source must comply with Utah Code Sections 73-3-1 and 73-3-25 and receive approval from the local health department.
    • The source must supply sufficient quantity of water to comply with the applicable chapter.

    public sewer accessibility distance: <= 300 feet from property line (public sewer connection requirement applies when sewer is accessible) · individual water source: required where potable public water is unavailable (must comply with Utah Code Sections 73-3-1 and 73-3-25 and local health approval)

    “public sewer where the sewer is accessible and is within 300 feet”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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.”
  • 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.”

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 Wayne 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 ↗

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 Wayne County, Utah

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

Wayne County scores 40/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 165 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 9.4″ of rain a year, in severe drought 34.4% of years and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

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

Wayne County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Central Utah Public 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 Wayne County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Wayne County is prohibited: Use of a mobile home, travel trailer, or similar recreational vehicle as an accessory building in Wayne County. This claim addresses use as an accessory building, not campground occupancy. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Wayne County, Utah?

Land in Wayne County runs about $10,311 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Wayne County?

Wayne County gets about 9.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 34.4% of years. On water rights, Wayne County lies in the Sevier River Basin (closed to new groundwater since 1997) — Large central-Utah basin closed to new groundwater appropriations since 1997 (surface water since 1946); new development must acquire and change existing valid rights..

How remote is Wayne County?

A representative private-land location has about 165 people within a 30-minute drive and 13,598 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 Wayne compares in Utah

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