Can I Build Shed in Provo, UT? (2026)
Find out if you can build a shed in Provo, UT. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
You can build a shed in Provo, UT. Whether a permit is required depends on whether you need a permit.
Sheds and storage buildings in Provo, UT govern accessory storage structures. The Provo Community Development Department — Building enforces building permit requirements for shed projects. The key factor determining whether you need a permit is whether you need a permit.
Shed Rules in Provo
Shed Rules in Provo: Permit required: Conditional. When permit is required: Accessory structures under 120 sqft may be exempt. Provo Community Development. Must meet setback requirements.
Costs & Fees
Shed permit fees in Provo: $100–$350.
Timeline
2-3 weeks
Next Steps
Next steps for building a shed in Provo: 1. Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold. 2. If a permit is required, contact the Provo Community Development Department — Building at (801) 852-6400 or https://provo.org/departments/community-development. 3. Submit plans and pay applicable fees. 4. Schedule required inspections through the Provo Community Development Department — Building.
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