Salt Lake City Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Salt Lake City, UT. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
199,723
Total Zone Types
30
Planning Department
Salt Lake City Division of Planning
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Salt Lake County
Metro Area
Salt Lake City-Provo-Orem
Salt Lake City Zoning System
The Salt Lake City zoning system includes 30 total zone classifications: 12 residential zones (FR-1/43560, FR-2/21780, FR-3/12000, R-1-5000, R-1-7000, and others) and 6 commercial zones (CN, CB, CC, CG, and others), as well as 5 mixed-use zones (MU, D-1, D-2) and 2 industrial zones (M-1, M-2). Salt Lake City uses Title 21A of the Salt Lake City Code (Zoning), administered by the Division of Planning. Residential zones range from very low density (FR-1/43560 — one acre minimum) through high-density multifamily (RMF-75). Single-family zones use a lot-size designation format (R-1-5000 = minimum 5,000 sqft lots). The Residential Office (RO) zone allows a mix of residential and office uses. Salt Lake City's planning reflects Utah SB 174 (2021) ADU preemption requirements and has its own progressive housing policies. The Sugar House Business District (CSHBD) has specialized standards for that historic commercial corridor. Salt Lake City is the state capital of Utah and a major regional center. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Salt Lake City Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Salt Lake City Building Department (Salt Lake City Building Services) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (801) 535-6000 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Salt Lake City Division of Planning at (801) 535-7700. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Salt Lake City?
Yes. Utah Senate Bill 174 (effective May 2021) requires Salt Lake City to allow internal ADUs by-right on all single-family lots. Salt Lake City's local code also allows detached ADUs in most residential zones. ADUs are limited to 1,000 sqft. No owner-occupancy requirement applies. Internal ADUs qualify for ministerial approval (no discretionary review) per state law.
What does Utah SB 174 require for ADUs?
Utah SB 174 (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. Key protections: municipalities cannot require a conditional use permit for internal ADUs, cannot require owner-occupancy, and must approve code-compliant internal ADU applications ministerially. Salt Lake City also allows detached ADUs under local code.
Does Salt Lake City require a permit for short-term rentals?
Yes. Salt Lake City requires a Short-Term Rental License ($110/year) for all Airbnb-style rentals. The license number must be displayed on listings. Properties must meet housing and fire codes. Airbnb and VRBO collect and remit applicable Utah and Salt Lake County taxes on behalf of hosts.
What are the setbacks in an R-1-5000 zone in Salt Lake City?
In an R-1-5000 zone (minimum 5,000 sqft lot single-family), the setbacks are: 15 ft front, 5 ft each side, and 15 ft rear. ADUs must maintain 5 ft side and 10 ft rear setbacks for detached structures. Always verify specific parcel setbacks with the Salt Lake City Division of Planning.
Are solar panels required on new homes in Salt Lake City?
No. Utah does not have a residential solar mandate. Solar is voluntary in Salt Lake City. Rocky Mountain Power (the local utility) offers net metering for solar installations. HOAs have limited ability to prohibit solar under Utah Code Section 57-8a-404.
Source: Salt Lake City Code Title 21A; Utah Code Section 10-9a-534 (SB 174 ADU requirements). Last verified April 5, 2026. View source