Can I Build Garage in Salt Lake City, UT? (2026)
Find out if you can build a garage in Salt Lake City, UT. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Building a detached garage in Salt Lake City, UT requires a building permit. Setback requirements and lot coverage limits apply.
Building a detached or attached garage in Salt Lake City, UT typically requires a building permit through the local building department. Garages are governed by the same structural permit requirements as room additions, plus setback requirements that vary by zone. Detached garages must comply with accessory structure setbacks in Salt Lake City, and total lot coverage (all covered structures combined) must not exceed zone limits.
Garage Rules in Salt Lake City
Garage Construction Rules in Salt Lake City: Permit required: Conditional depending on size. R-1-12000 zone setbacks (typical): Front varies ft, Side varies ft, Rear varies ft. Check your zone's lot coverage limits — adding a garage may push total coverage over the maximum.
Costs & Fees
Contact the local building department through their official website for current permit fee information.
Next Steps
Next steps for building a garage in Salt Lake City: 1. Verify your zone setback requirements and lot coverage limits. 2. Prepare site plan showing garage location relative to property lines. 3. Submit a building permit application to the local building department. 4. Once approved, begin construction with required inspections at foundation, framing, and final.
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