Can I Build ADU in Provo, UT? (2026)
Find out if you can build a adu in Provo, UT. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Provo, 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 Provo, 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 Provo
ADU Rules in Provo: 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: Utah SB 174 allows owner-occupancy requirements for short-term rentals but not for ADU approval itself. Provo may impose owner-occupancy requirements on STR licensing for ADUs — verify with Community Development.. State preemption applies: UT law requires Provo to approve compliant ADUs by right.
Costs & Fees
ADU permits in Provo: Total estimated permit cost: $800–$4,000 total fees. Contact the Provo Community Development Department — Building for current fee schedule.
Timeline
Provo Community Development: plan review typically 3-6 weeks. Internal ADUs per SB 174 processed ministerially. Construction 3-8 months.
Next Steps
Next steps for building an ADU in Provo: 1. Review full ADU rules including size limits, setbacks, and parking. 2. Apply for an ADU permit through the Provo Community Development Department — Building at https://provo.org/departments/community-development/building. 3. Hire a licensed contractor familiar with UT ADU requirements.
Provo Community Development Department — Building
Phone: (801) 852-6400
Website: https://provo.org/departments/community-development
Online Permits: https://provo.org/departments/community-development/building
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Provo property?
Yes. Utah SB 174 (2021) requires Provo to allow internal ADUs by-right without a conditional use permit. Detached ADUs are also allowed in most residential zones with a building permit. ADUs are limited to 1,000 sqft. There is no owner-occupancy requirement for ADU approval. Near BYU, ADUs are in high rental demand from students. Contact Provo Community Development for zone-specific requirements.
How does BYU's presence affect Provo housing?
BYU's approximately 33,000 students create extraordinary rental demand in Provo. Properties near BYU (within walking distance of campus) command premium rents. BYU has its own off-campus housing standards — properties marketed to BYU students are expected to uphold BYU's Honor Code standards. However, the City of Provo's zoning and ADU rules apply to all properties regardless of tenant affiliation. Many investors buy Provo properties specifically for BYU student rental income.
What are the ADU rules near BYU campus?
ADU rules near BYU are governed by Provo City Code Title 14 — not by BYU. The city's R1.6 and R2 zones near campus follow standard ADU rules: internal ADUs allowed by-right per Utah SB 174, detached ADUs with permit. However, parking near campus is scarce — if your zone allows an ADU parking waiver near transit, you may face challenges with BYU student tenants who need cars. BYU's housing list requires off-campus housing to meet certain standards for listing.
Are short-term rentals allowed in Provo?
Yes. Short-term rentals are allowed with a license ($150/year). License number must be displayed in all listings. Owner-occupancy requirements may apply in residential zones — verify with Provo Community Development. Utah Transient Room Tax applies. The BYU-area rental market is primarily long-term student rentals — STR competition is less intense than in tourist-oriented Utah markets (Park City, St. George).
Is Provo in Salt Lake County?
No. Provo is in Utah County, not Salt Lake County. Provo is the county seat of Utah County. Salt Lake City is in Salt Lake County (to the north). The two counties are separate jurisdictions with different governments. The broader metropolitan area (Salt Lake City-Provo-Orem MSA) spans both counties. Utah County has grown rapidly due to the Silicon Slopes tech corridor and BYU's presence.
Source: Provo Community Development Department — Building — Building Regulations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source