ADU Rules in Provo, UT (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Provo, UT. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Provo, UT.
Provo, 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 Provo, the Provo Community Development Department — Building handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Provo.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Provo: Detached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source (max height: varies — see official source). Attached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | See official source | See official source |
| Attached ADU | See official source | See official source |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Provo: Plan check fee: $150–$700. Building permit fee: Based on construction value — typically $400–$2,000. Impact fees: Varies — Provo 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 — Provo charges utility connection fees |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Provo ADU Permit Timeline: Not codified; permit processing time not specified in Provo §14.30.030 Apply through the Provo Community Development Department — Building online permit portal. Phone: (801) 852-6400.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Provo: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: 10 feet. Rear setback: 10 feet.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: A one (1) family dwelling with an ADU must have at least four (4) off-street parking spaces
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 and may be subject to design standards
- ADU cannot be sold separately from the primary lot
- BYU housing office has its own off-campus housing standards for student rentals — different from city ADU regulations
- Some residential areas near BYU have deed restrictions or HOA standards
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Provo: Single-family lots: 1 ADU per single-family lot (internal by-right; detached with permit). Multifamily properties: Subject to zone density provisions. Utah SB 174 establishes the minimum. Provo has updated its code to comply. Near BYU, many properties already have multiple rental units — verify zone and legal non-conforming status.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1 ADU per single-family lot (internal by-right; detached with permit)
- 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 (within or attached to the primary dwelling) by-right on all single-family lots without a conditional use permit. Municipalities cannot prohibit internal ADUs with a CUP. HB 572 (2024) has further expanded ADU incentives statewide. Provo complies with state law and its local code provides for both internal and detached ADUs in most residential zones. Utah does not use the California JADU concept.
Historic District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: Provo has 2 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. Provo has a historic downtown district along Center Street and other locally-designated historic structures including many early LDS (Latter-day Saints) religious and civic buildings. The Provo Tabernacle (now Provo City Center Temple) is a National Historic Landmark. Certificate of Appropriateness may be required for exterior changes to designated properties. Contact Provo Community Development for historic overlay boundaries. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://provo.org/departments/community-development/planning/historic-preservation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Provo?
Yes. Provo, UT allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1 ADU per single-family lot (internal by-right; detached with permit).
How big can an ADU be in Provo?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Provo is No explicit sqft cap in §14.30.030; detached ADU must have footprint and height less than the main dwelling; minimum 200 sqft square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Provo?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Provo is Not codified; permit processing time not specified in Provo §14.30.030. Total estimated permit fees are Not codified; fee shown in Provo Consolidated Fee Schedule (external document).
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Provo?
Provo parking rules for ADUs: A one (1) family dwelling with an ADU must have at least four (4) off-street parking spaces
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Provo?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Provo: Owner-occupancy required: either the main dwelling unit or the ADU must be occupied by an owner occupant
Source: Provo City Code Title 14 — Zoning; Utah SB 174 (2021); Utah HB 572 (2024). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source