Can I Build Garage Conversion in Salt Lake City, UT? (2026)
Find out if you can build a garage conversion in Salt Lake City, UT. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Whether garage conversions to living space are permitted in Salt Lake City, UT has not been confirmed — contact the local building department or see the official source before proceeding.
Converting an attached or detached garage into living space in Salt Lake City, UT is a popular way to add an ADU or additional living area without new construction. Garage conversion regulations in Salt Lake City require verification with the local building department. A key consideration: whether replacement parking is required for a garage-to-ADU conversion has not been confirmed — check with the building department.
Garage Conversion Rules in Salt Lake City
Garage Conversion Rules in Salt Lake City: Allowed: Status not confirmed — see official source. Replacement parking required: Status not confirmed — see official source. All garage conversions to habitable space require a building permit. The converted space must meet minimum habitable room standards (typically 7 ft ceiling height, egress window, insulation, and ventilation).
Costs & Fees
Garage conversion permit fees in Salt Lake City are typically based on project valuation. Contact the local building department through their official website for current fees. Conversion costs typically range $20,000–$80,000 depending on scope (permits, labor, materials, utility connections).
Timeline
Permit timeline: typically 2-6 weeks for plan check. Construction: 2-4 months for a typical garage conversion.
Next Steps
Next steps for converting your garage in Salt Lake City: 1. Determine if the conversion will be an ADU (separate unit with kitchen/bath) or additional living space. 2. Check replacement parking requirements for your zone. 3. Have a contractor assess structural requirements (ceiling height, foundation, utilities). 4. Submit plans and permit application to the local building department. 5. See the full ADU rules page for size limits and requirements if creating an ADU unit.
Salt Lake City Building Services
Phone: See official source
Website: https://www.slc.gov/building/
Online Permits: https://www.slc.gov/building/permits/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Salt Lake City?
Yes. Utah Senate Bill 174 (effective May 2021) requires Salt Lake City to allow internal ADUs by-right on all single-family lots. Salt Lake City's local code also allows detached ADUs in most residential zones. ADUs are limited to 1,000 sqft. No owner-occupancy requirement applies. Internal ADUs qualify for ministerial approval (no discretionary review) per state law.
What does Utah SB 174 require for ADUs?
Utah SB 174 (2021) requires all Utah municipalities to allow at least one internal ADU (within or attached to the primary dwelling) by-right on all single-family lots. Key protections: municipalities cannot require a conditional use permit for internal ADUs, cannot require owner-occupancy, and must approve code-compliant internal ADU applications ministerially. Salt Lake City also allows detached ADUs under local code.
Does Salt Lake City require a permit for short-term rentals?
Yes. Salt Lake City requires a Short-Term Rental License ($110/year) for all Airbnb-style rentals. The license number must be displayed on listings. Properties must meet housing and fire codes. Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit applicable Utah and Salt Lake County taxes on behalf of hosts.
What are the setbacks in an R-1-5000 zone in Salt Lake City?
In an R-1-5000 zone (minimum 5,000 sqft lot single-family), the setbacks are: 15 ft front, 5 ft each side, and 15 ft rear. ADUs must maintain 5 ft side and 10 ft rear setbacks for detached structures. Always verify specific parcel setbacks with the Salt Lake City Division of Planning.
Are solar panels required on new homes in Salt Lake City?
No. Utah does not have a residential solar mandate. Solar is voluntary in Salt Lake City. Rocky Mountain Power (the local utility) offers net metering for solar installations. HOAs have limited ability to prohibit solar under Utah Code Section 57-8a-404.
Source: Salt Lake City Building Services — Building Regulations. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source