Can I Build ADU in Ogden, UT? (2026)
Find out if you can build a adu in Ogden, UT. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Ogden, UT. California state law ensures by-right approval.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a residential lot — also called a granny flat, in-law suite, or backyard cottage. In Ogden, UT, ADUs are permitted by right under state law, making them one of the most accessible ways to add housing on your property. ADUs can be detached, attached to the main home, or created by converting an existing garage or accessory structure.
ADU Rules in Ogden
ADU Rules in Ogden: Detached ADU max size: 1000 sq ft. Attached ADU max size: Up to 50% of primary dwelling floor area, not to exceed 1,000 sqft. Setbacks: 5 ft side, 10 ft rear. Owner-occupancy: No state-mandated owner-occupancy requirement for ADU approval per Utah SB 174. Ogden may impose owner-occupancy requirements for STR licensing but not for the ADU permit itself.. State preemption applies: UT law requires Ogden to approve compliant ADUs by right.
Costs & Fees
ADU permits in Ogden: Total estimated permit cost: $700–$3,500 total fees. Contact the Ogden Community and Economic Development — Building for current fee schedule.
Timeline
Ogden Community and Economic Development: plan review typically 3-5 weeks. Internal ADUs processed ministerially. Construction 3-8 months.
Next Steps
Next steps for building an ADU in Ogden: 1. Review full ADU rules including size limits, setbacks, and parking. 2. Apply for an ADU permit through the Ogden Community and Economic Development — Building at https://www.ogdencity.com/254/planning. 3. Hire a licensed contractor familiar with UT ADU requirements.
Ogden Community and Economic Development — Building
Phone: (801) 629-8930
Website: https://www.ogdencity.com/254/planning
Online Permits: https://www.ogdencity.com/254/planning
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Ogden property?
Yes. Utah SB 174 (2021) requires Ogden to allow internal ADUs by-right without a conditional use permit. Detached ADUs are also permitted in most residential zones with a building permit. ADUs are limited to 1,000 sqft. No owner-occupancy requirement for the ADU permit itself. Contact Ogden Community and Economic Development for zone-specific requirements.
How does Ogden differ from Salt Lake City and Provo?
Ogden is in Weber County, about 30 miles north of Salt Lake City. It has a distinct identity as a former railroad hub and manufacturing city that has reinvented itself as an outdoor recreation gateway. Ogden has better access to world-class skiing (Snowbasin, Powder Mountain) than Salt Lake City. Housing is generally more affordable than SLC. The Ogden-Clearfield metro includes Hill Air Force Base, Utah's largest single-site employer. Provo is in Utah County to the south and is shaped by BYU — quite different from Ogden.
What ski resorts are near Ogden?
Ogden has excellent ski resort access: Snowbasin Resort (30 min, host of 2002 Olympic downhill), Powder Mountain (40 min, largest ski area in the US by acreage), and Nordic Valley (30 min). This outdoor recreation access is a major driver of Ogden's growth and short-term rental market. Ogden can be a more affordable base than Salt Lake City for ski season renters.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Ogden?
Yes. Short-term rentals are allowed in Ogden with a permit ($125/year). Ogden's outdoor recreation proximity makes it a growing STR market for ski season and summer adventure tourism. Utah Transient Room Tax applies to all STR rentals. Permit number must be displayed in all listings.
What is the significance of Ogden's railroad history for current development?
Ogden was the junction point of the First Transcontinental Railroad (completed 1869). The city grew rapidly as a railroad hub — much of the historic building stock in the 25th Street area dates to the 1880s-1920s. This history created a walkable downtown with historic commercial buildings. Today, Ogden's Union Station (1924) is a landmark and houses several museums. The railroad heritage creates unique historic preservation considerations for development — the Historic 25th Street District is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Source: Ogden Community and Economic Development — Building — Building Regulations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source