Room Addition Permit in Salt Lake City (2026)
Room Addition permit requirements, fees, and process for Salt Lake City, UT. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a Room Addition permit is required in Salt Lake City, UT.
A Room Addition permit is required in Salt Lake City, UT. The Salt Lake City Building Services handles permit applications for Salt Lake City. Below you will find the current thresholds, fees, and process for obtaining a room addition permit in Salt Lake City.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a Room Addition Permit Is Required in Salt Lake City: All structural additions require permit
Permit Fees
Room Addition Permit Fees in Salt Lake City: Valuation-based — typically $1,500-$7,000. Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks.
Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks
How to Get a Room Addition Permit in Salt Lake City
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Salt Lake City: All structural additions require permit.
Prepare your permit application and plans. Contact the Salt Lake City Building Services at https://www.slc.gov/building-services/ for required documentation.
Submit your application online at https://www.slc.gov/building-services/permits/ or in person at the Salt Lake City Building Services.
Pay the permit fee: Valuation-based — typically $1,500-$7,000.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks.
Schedule required inspections through https://www.slc.gov/building-services/inspections/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: Full structural addition requires building permit with architectural plans. SLC Building Services processes.
Salt Lake City Building Services
Phone: (801) 535-6000
Website: https://www.slc.gov/building-services/
Online Permits: https://www.slc.gov/building-services/permits/
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
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 Building Code — Room Addition Requirements. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source