ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Provo (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Provo, UT. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Provo, UT.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Provo, UT. The Provo Community Development Department — Building handles permit applications for Provo. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Provo.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Provo: All ADU construction (internal ADUs processed ministerially per SB 174)
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Provo: $800–$4,000. Estimated timeline: 3-6 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 3-6 weeks
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Provo
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Provo: All ADU construction (internal ADUs processed ministerially per SB 174).
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the Provo Community Development Department — Building at https://provo.org/departments/community-development for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://provo.org/departments/community-development/building or in person at the Provo Community Development Department — Building.
Pay the permit fee: $800–$4,000.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 3-6 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://provo.org/departments/community-development/building. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Provo Community Development. Internal ADUs cannot require a CUP under Utah SB 174. Detached ADUs follow standard permit process.
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
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
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 Building Code — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source