ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Salt Lake City (2026)
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit requirements, fees, and process for Salt Lake City, UT. Find out if you need a permit and how to apply.
Yes, a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit is required in Salt Lake City, UT.
A ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) 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 adu (accessory dwelling unit) permit in Salt Lake City.
When Is a Permit Required?
When a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Is Required in Salt Lake City: All ADUs require building permit; internal ADUs qualify for ministerial approval under UT SB 174
Permit Fees
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit Fees in Salt Lake City: $1,500-$6,000 typical. Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks (internal ADU may be faster per SB 174 ministerial mandate).
Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks (internal ADU may be faster per SB 174 ministerial mandate)
How to Get a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Permit in Salt Lake City
Verify whether your project meets the permit threshold in Salt Lake City: All ADUs require building permit; internal ADUs qualify for ministerial approval under UT SB 174.
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: $1,500-$6,000 typical.
Wait for plan check approval. Estimated timeline: 4-8 weeks (internal ADU may be faster per SB 174 ministerial mandate).
Schedule required inspections through https://www.slc.gov/building-services/inspections/. All inspections must pass before project is finalized.
Important: UT SB 174 requires ministerial approval for internal ADUs. SLC Building Services processes ADU permits. Online portal available.
Additional Requirements
- SLC Public Utilities connection fees may apply
- Compliance with Utah Energy Code required
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 — ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Requirements. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source