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 1000 sq ft (max height: 25 feet). Attached ADU: Up to 50% of primary dwelling floor area, not to exceed 1,000 sqft. 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 | 1000 sq ft | 25 feet |
| Attached ADU | Up to 50% of primary dwelling floor area, not to exceed 1,000 sqft | Per zone height limit |
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: $700–$3,500 total fees. Ogden has lower construction costs and permit fees than Salt Lake City. Contact Ogden Community and Economic Development for current fee schedule.
| 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 | $700–$3,500 total fees |
Permit Timeline
Ogden ADU Permit Timeline: Ogden Community and Economic Development: plan review typically 3-5 weeks. Internal ADUs processed ministerially. Construction 3-8 months. 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: Same as zone standard. Side setback: 5 feet. Rear setback: 10 feet. ADUs must comply with zone setback standards. Minimum 5 ft side and 10 ft rear setbacks for detached ADUs. Ogden City Code Chapter 29.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: Utah SB 174 and Ogden local code: 1 parking space per ADU. Internal ADUs may have waived parking requirements under state law. UTA FrontRunner commuter rail serves Ogden — proximity to Ogden station may affect parking requirements.
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
State 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/254/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 1,000 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Ogden?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Ogden is Ogden Community and Economic Development: plan review typically 3-5 weeks. Internal ADUs processed ministerially. Construction 3-8 months.. Total estimated permit fees are $700–$3,500 total fees.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Ogden?
No, Ogden does not require additional parking for ADUs.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Ogden?
No, owner-occupancy is not required for ADUs in Ogden.
Source: Ogden City Code Chapter 29 — Zoning; Utah SB 174 (2021). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source