ADU Rules in Ogden, UT (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Ogden, UT. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Ogden, UT.
Ogden, UT permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential properties. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. State and local law actively preempts local restrictions, making ADU approval a streamlined ministerial process. In Ogden, the Ogden Community and Economic Development — Building handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Ogden.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Ogden: Detached ADU: up to 800 sq ft (max height: 35 feet). Attached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source. Ogden City Code Chapter 29 limits ADUs to 1,000 sqft maximum. Utah does not use the JADU designation from California law. Internal ADUs permitted by-right under SB 174. Detached ADUs permitted in residential zones with building permit.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | 800 sq ft · Verified June 1, 2026 · Source | 35 feet · Verified June 1, 2026 · Source |
| Attached ADU | See official source | See official source |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Ogden: Plan check fee: $150–$700. Building permit fee: Based on construction value — typically $400–$2,000. Impact fees: Varies — Ogden charges utility connection fees. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $150–$700 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $400–$2,000 |
| Impact Fees | Varies — Ogden charges utility connection fees |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Ogden ADU Permit Timeline: Not specified in Ogden City Code §15-13-39; permit processing time not codified in ordinance Apply through the Ogden Community and Economic Development — Building online permit portal. Phone: (801) 629-8930.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Ogden: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: single-family dwelling with an accessory dwelling unit shall have in existence the required two (2) off street parking spaces; no additional off street parking in the front or side yard for the ADU is to be provided
Restrictions & Requirements
- ADU must be on same lot as primary residence
- Internal ADUs permitted by-right per Utah SB 174 — no CUP required
- Detached ADUs require building permit
- ADU cannot be sold separately from the primary lot
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Ogden: Single-family lots: 1 ADU per single-family lot. Multifamily properties: Subject to zone density provisions. Utah SB 174 establishes the minimum. Ogden complies with state law.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1 ADU per single-family lot
- Multifamily Properties
- Subject to zone density provisions
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
Utah state law preempts local ADU rules — local governments cannot impose stricter standards.
View Utah preemption detailsState Law & Preemption
State Preemption: Utah Senate Bill 174 (effective May 5, 2021) requires all Utah municipalities to allow at least one internal ADU by-right on all single-family lots without a conditional use permit. Ogden complies with state law. HB 572 (2024) has further expanded statewide ADU incentives. Utah does not use the California JADU concept.
Historic District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: Ogden has 3 historic districts where additional design review may be required for ADU construction. Design review approval is required before obtaining a building permit for properties in historic overlay zones. Ogden has significant historic resources reflecting its railroad heritage. The Union Station (1924) is a major historic landmark housing museums. The Historic 25th Street corridor is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Ogden Historic Preservation Commission reviews exterior changes to designated properties. Certificate of Appropriateness required in historic overlay districts. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://www.ogdencity.com/planning
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Ogden?
Yes. Ogden, UT allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1 ADU per single-family lot.
How big can an ADU be in Ogden?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Ogden is 800 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Ogden?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Ogden is Not specified in Ogden City Code §15-13-39; permit processing time not codified in ordinance. Total estimated permit fees are Total ADU project cost not codified; all-in construction and permit cost unknown — fee schedule maintained externally by Ogden Building Services Division.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Ogden?
Ogden parking rules for ADUs: single-family dwelling with an accessory dwelling unit shall have in existence the required two (2) off street parking spaces; no additional off street parking in the front or side yard for the ADU is to be provided
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Ogden?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Ogden: Owner-occupancy required: property owner must occupy either the primary or accessory dwelling as the property owner's permanent and principal residence in order to qualify for an ADU.
Source: Ogden City Code Chapter 29 — Zoning; Utah SB 174 (2021). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source