Setback Requirements in Salt Lake City, UT (2026)
Front, side, and rear setback requirements by zoning district for Salt Lake City, UT. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Setbacks by Zoning District
| Zone | Front | Side | Rear | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R-1-12000 | 25 feet | 10 feet | 25 feet | SLC Code Title 21A. R-1-12000 — low density single-family, 12,000 sqft minimum lot. |
| R-1-7000 | 20 feet | 6 feet | 20 feet | SLC Code Title 21A. R-1-7000 — standard single-family, 7,000 sqft minimum lot. |
| R-1-5000 | 15 feet | 5 feet | 15 feet | SLC Code Title 21A. R-1-5000 — moderate density single-family, 5,000 sqft minimum lot. |
| R-2 | 15 feet | 5 feet | 15 feet | SLC Code Title 21A. R-2 — two-family residential. |
| RMF-30 | 10 feet | 5 feet | 10 feet | SLC Code Title 21A. RMF-30 — low-rise multi-family, max 30 ft height. |
| RMF-45 | 10 feet | 5 feet | 10 feet | SLC Code Title 21A. RMF-45 — mid-rise multi-family, max 45 ft height. |
All setbacks measured from property line. Verify with Salt Lake City Building Services before submitting permit applications.
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 Zoning Code — Setback Requirements. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source