Box Elder County, UT Building Permits, Zoning & Septic Rules

Unincorporated Box Elder County, Utah requires a building permit before you construct, alter, move, or change the use of a building or structure, enforced under the county's own adopted code¹. The county also zones unincorporated land, and the parcel's district controls lot size, coverage, setbacks and height²³⁴⁵⁶. Septic permits go through the Bear River Health Department⁷⁸.

At a glance

Building permit: Required for most construction, additions and alterations in unincorporated Box Elder County⁹¹
Zoning: Yes in unincorporated areas; district rules can set lot size, coverage, setbacks and building height²³⁴⁵¹⁰⁶
Septic permits: Bear River Health Department: Brigham office for south-county parcels, Tremonton office for north-county parcels; conventional permit fee $840⁷⁸¹¹
RV / tiny home living: Permanent RV living is banned outside a licensed park, with a 365-day exception while an active building permit is in hand¹²
Owner-builder: Available to a sole owner building for personal, noncommercial use, capped at 1 structure a year and three in five years¹³¹⁴¹⁵
Agricultural buildings: A structure used solely for agriculture and not for human occupancy is generally exempt from the State Construction Code, but the county still wants its own agricultural-building form filed¹⁶¹⁷
Driveway access: One residential driveway per lot, up to 20 feet wide at the street line; a new connection to a state highway needs a UDOT conditional access permit¹⁸¹⁹
Building permit fees: Set by the state ICC fee structure plus a 1% state fee; dwelling plan review is 50% of the permit fee and a $1,700 deposit is due upfront²⁰

Who to call

Building permits

Box Elder County Building Permits/Inspections (Chief Building Official)

Building permit applications, plan review and inspections for unincorporated Box Elder County

435-734-2634

[email protected]

1 S Main Street, Room 19, Brigham City, UT 84302

Online permits →

Planning & zoning

Box Elder County Community Development/Planning & Zoning

Zoning administration, land use permits, subdivision and conditional use review for unincorporated Box Elder County

435-734-3354

1 S Main Street, Room 34, Brigham City, UT 84302

Septic permits

Bear River Health Department, Brigham Office (Environmental Health)

Onsite wastewater (septic) permits, site evaluations and inspections for the south end of Box Elder County

(435) 792-6500

817 West 950 South, Brigham City, Utah 84302

Septic permits

Bear River Health Department, Tremonton Office (Environmental Health)

Onsite wastewater (septic) permits, site evaluations and inspections for the north end of Box Elder County

(435) 792-6500

440 West 600 North, Tremonton, Utah 84337

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 29, 2026.

Do you need a building permit in Box Elder County, Utah?

Yes. Box Elder County requires a valid permit before any building or structure is constructed, reconstructed, altered, or moved, or before the use or status of land changes, anywhere in the unincorporated county¹. Utah counties have general authority to make and enforce building regulations outside city and town limits, and Box Elder County exercises that authority through its own adopted code²¹. The county's building-permit page lists the 2024 International Building and Residential Codes among the adopted construction codes, matching what Utah's State Construction Code incorporates statewide²²²³. A permit isn't required only when the County Code or an applicable construction code doesn't call for one, so don't assume a small project is automatically exempt without checking first¹. Once construction is finished, using or occupying a building without a certificate of occupancy is a violation of the County Code, and a building without one can be declared a public nuisance²⁴. A structure used solely for agriculture and not for human occupancy is exempt from the State Construction Code's permit requirement, though Box Elder County still asks that you file its own agricultural-building application and site plan¹⁶¹⁷. Building your own home doesn't require a licensed contractor if you're the sole owner building for your own noncommercial use, capped at 1 structure a year and three in five years, but that exemption doesn't waive the county's permit, plan review, or inspection requirements¹³¹⁴¹⁵.

Who is the Box Elder County building department, and how do you reach them?

Box Elder County's Building Permits/Inspections office is at 1 S Main Street, Room 19, Brigham City, UT 84302, phone 435-734-2634, and the Chief Building Official can be reached at [email protected]²⁵. Once the office has every required document, standard processing for all permits runs 7 to 10 business days, so apply well before you want to break ground²⁵²⁶. The office requires 24-hour notice to schedule any inspection, and no part of the work may be covered until an inspection is approved²⁵²⁷. Fees follow the state's ICC fee structure rather than a flat dollar figure, plus a 1% state fee on the building permit fee; plan review runs 50% of the building permit fee for a dwelling and 65% for commercial work, and the county collects a $1,700 deposit for a dwelling permit or $2,500 for a commercial one²⁰. Zoning is a separate department one floor over: Community Development/Planning & Zoning is at 1 S Main Street, Room 34, Brigham City, UT 84302, phone 435-734-3354²⁸. Confirm your zoning district, minimum lot size, and any subdivision requirements with Planning & Zoning before you design anything, since the building office reviews your plans against zoning that already applies to your parcel²⁸².

Does Box Elder County have zoning?

Yes. Box Elder County administers zoning districts across unincorporated land, and work exempt from a building permit remains subject to land-use rules². Minimum lot area for a main use is 160 acres in MU-160, 80 in MU-80, 40 in MU-40, 20 in A-20, one-half acre in A-1/2, 10 in RR-10, 5 in RR-5, 2 in RR-2 and 1 in RR-1³²⁹³⁰³¹³²³³³⁴³⁵³⁶. An R-1-8 single-family lot requires 8,000 square feet⁴. Coverage also changes by district: the maximum is 40% in A-1/2, 5% in RR-10, 10% in RR-5, 25% in RR-2 and 20% in RR-1; accessory buildings in any residential district may cover no more than 25% of the parcel⁵¹⁰. Buildings in the minimal-use, agricultural and rural-residential districts are capped at 35 feet or 2.5 stories, except agricultural buildings⁶. Ask Community Development/Planning & Zoning to identify the parcel's zone before designing²⁸.

How do septic permits work in Box Elder County?

Septic permits in Box Elder County go through the Bear River Health Department, the multi-county local health district that also covers Cache and Rich counties, under Utah's statewide onsite wastewater rule⁷³⁷. The district splits Box Elder County by geography: south-county applications go through the Brigham office, and north-county applications go through the Tremonton office⁸. The Brigham office is at 817 West 950 South, Brigham City, Utah 84302, and the Tremonton office is at 440 West 600 North, Tremonton, Utah 84337, both reachable at (435) 792-6500³⁸³⁹. A septic permit is required before you construct, alter, or repair a system, and the district's published fees are $840 for a conventional system, $1,040 for a commercial system, $350 for an alteration, and no charge for a repair permit¹¹. Utah's rule requires a dwelling to connect to a public sewer where one is available and practicable, and only allows an onsite system when public sewer is unavailable or impracticable⁴⁰. Where sewer isn't available, a septic feasibility letter from the Bear River Health Department is required before subdivision development can proceed⁴¹. Only 10.5% of the county's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so evaluate the site before buying and allow for a possible engineered or alternative system⁴². We could not confirm a routine residential inspection interval for existing systems; ask the Bear River Health Department about the property in question.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Box Elder County?

Permanent living in a recreational vehicle is prohibited on a lot or parcel in unincorporated Box Elder County, except in a designated and permitted mobile home or recreational vehicle park¹². Once you hold a building permit for a single-family dwelling, you can live in an RV on-site while building for up to 365 days or until the certificate of occupancy is issued, whichever comes first¹²²⁵. Otherwise, recreational use is capped at 14 consecutive days and 90 total days in a calendar year⁴³. Agritourism RV facilities are a separate conditional use on at least 5 acres in qualifying areas; they may have no more than 5 sites and cannot be used for permanent living⁴⁴. Utah's statewide RV and tiny-house rule addresses licensed RV parks and does not create occupancy rights on land outside a park⁴⁵. We could not confirm a separate Box Elder County occupancy rule for tiny homes, so ask Community Development/Planning & Zoning whether a proposed unit will be treated as a dwelling, accessory structure, manufactured home, or RV before planning to live in it⁴⁶²⁸.

Building a home in Box Elder County: the steps, in order

First, ask Community Development/Planning & Zoning to identify the parcel's district and confirm its lot-size, coverage, height and subdivision standards before you design²⁸². Second, order a septic feasibility review from the Bear River Health Department, using the Brigham office for south-county parcels or the Tremonton office for north-county parcels, since only 10.5% of the county's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field³⁸³⁹⁴². Third, if your driveway will connect to a state highway, apply for a UDOT conditional access permit, required for any new connection, land-use change, or increase in access intensity along a state highway¹⁹; on other lots, plan for no more than one residential driveway, up to 20 feet wide at the street lot line, unless your frontage exceeds 100 feet¹⁸. Fourth, submit your building permit application to the county's Building Permits/Inspections office, and file the county's Owner/Builder Certification too if you're building it yourself without a licensed contractor²⁵¹⁵. Fifth, budget for plan review at 50% of the dwelling permit fee, a $1,700 dwelling deposit and a 1% state fee²⁰. Sixth, expect 7 to 10 business days of processing after the documents are complete, then give at least 24 hours' notice for inspections²⁶²⁷. Finally, obtain the certificate of occupancy before moving in²⁴.

What to check before you buy land in Box Elder County

Soils are the biggest thing to verify here: only 10.5% of Box Elder County's land is free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so arrange a Health Department site evaluation before buying⁴². Terrain is more forgiving, with 76.4% of the county at 15% slope or less⁴⁷. Water is a real planning factor in a dry county: annual precipitation runs about 12.4 inches a year, with roughly 30.3% of years landing in severe drought⁴⁸⁴⁹. Federal land covers 34.9% of the county, affecting what is available to buy and potentially affecting access or neighboring uses⁵⁰. If you're buying into an existing or planned subdivision, Box Elder County requires the plat to be approved before recording, and where no zoning applies the Bear River Health Department can set density or minimum-lot-size requirements for septic or well needs⁵¹. Typical property tax is about a 0.5% effective rate, with a median bill near $1,828 a year against a typical home value around $456,712⁵²⁵³⁵⁴. We could not confirm when Box Elder County requires a floodplain-development permit or what rules govern short-term rentals; ask Community Development/Planning & Zoning about both before committing to the parcel²⁸.

Watch-outs

Box Elder County prohibits permanent living in an RV on unincorporated land outside a designated mobile home or RV park; the only exception is up to 365 days while you hold an active building permit for a home¹².
We could not confirm a Box Elder County-specific minimum dwelling floor area or tiny-home occupancy rule outside RV parks; ask Planning & Zoning before assuming you can occupy one on raw land⁴⁶.
Only 10.5% of the county's soils are free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so budget for a site evaluation, and possibly an engineered system, before you count on a standard drain field⁴².
We could not confirm when Box Elder County requires a floodplain-development permit or what rules govern short-term rentals; verify both with Community Development/Planning & Zoning²⁸.

Sources

Written September 29, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

How Box Elder County scores

Seclusion71100% ev.

Self-Sufficiency17100% ev.

Admin Boringness40100% ev.

Durability38100% ev.

Property Autonomy60100% ev.

Carry Cost79100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$457kTypical home

0.5%Property tax

$2,495Land / acre

12.4"Annual rain

30.3% of yrsSevere drought

11 / yr (+9.7)Mid-century 100°F days

30.8 daysMid-century dry spell

0.69" (+8.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain

1.15×Wildfire change factor

100%Forward climate coverage

$1,119Home insurance / yr

6.5% / yrInsurance growth

0.94%Nonrenewal rate

county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis

107Radius comparison (15 mi)

10.9People / sq mi

34.9%Federal land

76.4%Land at 15% slope or less

10.5%Septic soil without severe limits

269,637 acWorkable land screen

4.2%Wooded land

11.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac

48.4°FAvg temp

Answers from the rulebook for Box Elder County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Box Elder County rules

Building permitLimited
Agricultural structures in Box Elder County used solely in conjunction with agriculture and not for human occupancy, or qualifying agricultural-sales structures of no more than 1,500 square feet.
- Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may still be required.
- The exemption does not apply, unless another exemption applies, to land within a city or town of less than five contiguous acres.
- The exemption does not apply, unless another exemption applies, to land within a county-approved subdivision of less than two contiguous acres.
- The city/town and subdivision acreage exclusions do not apply when the structure is located in whole or in part in an agricultural protection area created under Utah Title 17, Chapter 41.
- The agricultural building form states that the building may not be used for residential or commercial purposes other than agriculture; future change of use requires Building Department and Planning & Zoning Department review.
maximum qualifying agricultural-sales structure area: <= 1500 square feet (Must be used solely for the type of sales described in Utah Code Section 59-12-104(20)) · city or town land threshold: < 5 contiguous acres (Permit exclusion applies unless located in an agricultural protection area) · county-approved subdivision land threshold: < 2 contiguous acres (Permit exclusion applies unless located in an agricultural protection area)
“Except as provided in Subsection (11)(b), a structure used solely in conjunction with agriculture use, and not for human occupancy, or a structure that is no more than 1,500 square feet and used solely for the type of sales described in Subsection 59-12-104(20), is exempt from the permit requirements of the State Construction Code.”
Agricultural Building Application and Statement ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Required — Construction, reconstruction, alteration, or movement of a building or structure, and changes in the use or status of land, in unincorporated Box Elder County.
  “This Code shall apply to all property within the unincorporated areas of Box Elder County except property expressly exempted therefrom by the provisions of this Code or other lawful exemption. [...] No building or structure shall be constructed, reconstructed, altered, or moved, nor shall the use or status of land be changed except after the issuance of valid permits which conform to the requirements of this Code, unless no permit is required by this Code or by the construction codes applicable to the County.”
  Chapter 1 – General Provisions ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
- Required — New residential construction requiring county building-permit review in unincorporated Box Elder County.
  “Use the check list below to ensure you provide to the county all required items when turning in plans for building permits. [...] BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION – THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETE WHEN SUMITTED.”
  Building Permits / Inspection ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)
Owner-builders performing new residential construction, remodels, or additions in unincorporated Box Elder County and filing the County-hosted Utah Owner/Builder Certification with the Building Department.
- For new residential construction, the owner must be the sole owner of the property and construction project.
- For new residential construction, the project must be the only residential structure the owner has built that year.
- The owner must not have built more than three residential structures in the past five years.
- The improvements must be intended for and used as the owner's personal, non-commercial, non-public use.
- Work may be performed by the sole owner, a licensed contractor, qualifying employees covered by workers compensation insurance with required payroll taxes, or another person under the owner's supervision receiving no compensation or only token compensation.
- Retaining or compensating an unlicensed contractor or unlicensed person for work requiring licensure may constitute a Class A misdemeanor and may result in an administrative fine of up to $2,000 per day.
- The signed certification is filed with the Building Department.
maximum prior residential structures built in past five years: <= 3 structures (For new residential construction only; the form states the owner has not built more than three.) · new residential structures built in current year: 1 structure (The project must be the only residential structure the owner has built that year.) · maximum administrative fine for violation: <= 2000 USD per day (The form states the maximum administrative fine.)
“I understand that work performed on the project must be performed by the following: a. myself as the sole owner of the property; or b. a licensed contractor; or c. my employee(s) on whom I have Workers Compensation Insurance coverage, on whom I withhold and pay all required payroll taxes, and with respect to whom I comply with all other applicable employee/employer laws; or d. any other person working under my supervision as Owner/Builder to whom no compensation or only token compensation is paid; and”
Owner Builder Form New Fillable PDF ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
Building-code administration by Box Elder County for unincorporated Box Elder County.
- The county building-permit page identifies a 2024 Adopted Code document among its forms and applications.
- The adopted-code document lists the 2024 International Building Code, including Appendix J; the 2024 International Residential Code; the 2024 International Plumbing Code; the 2024 International Mechanical Code; the 2024 International Fuel Gas Code; the 2026 National Electrical Code; the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code; and the 2024 International Existing Building Code.
- The International Existing Building Code is subject to §15A-2-104(2) of the Utah Code and the HUD Code.
permit processing time: 7 to 10 business days (Once the office receives all required documents.) · inspection notice: >= 24 hours (Required for all inspections.)
“2024 edition of the International Building Code, Including Appendix J, issued by the International Code Council.”
Building Permits / Inspection ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
InspectionsRequired
Typical residential building projects reviewed by Box Elder County.
- A 24-hour advance notice is required for scheduling.
- The county states that unique project conditions may require inspections beyond the general list.
- Construction portions must not be covered until inspections are approved.
- Listed inspections include footing, foundation, foundation insulation, sub-rough plumbing/mechanical/electrical, rough 4-way, rough trade inspections, insulation, temporary power, power to panel, final 4-way, and final trade inspections.
inspection scheduling notice: >= 24 hours
“This is a general list of the inspections typically required for a residential project. There may be unique conditions in your individual project that may require inspections beyond those outlined here. Do not cover any portion on the construction until inspections have been approved.”
Building Permits / Inspection ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Required — Residential building projects requiring County building inspections in unincorporated Box Elder County.
  “To schedule an inspection, please call 435-734-2634 and allow for 24 hour advance scheduling. REQUIRED RESIDENTIAL BUILDING INSPECTIONS This is a general list of the inspections typically required for a residential project. There may be unique conditions in your individual project that may require inspections beyond those outlined here. Do not cover any portion on the construction until inspections have been approved.”
  Building Permits / Inspection | Box Elder County, UT ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
Certificate of occupancyRequired
Use or occupancy of any lot, parcel, building, or structure governed by the Box Elder County Land Use Management & Development Code in unincorporated Box Elder County.
- The building and the lot or parcel must conform to applicable provisions of the County Code and other building codes and regulations adopted by the County.
- Using or occupying a building or structure without a certificate of occupancy is unlawful.
- Using or occupying a building or structure for a use or occupancy different from the certificate is unlawful.
- Failure to obtain a certificate is a violation of the Code.
- A premises without an issued certificate is declared a public nuisance and may be abated.
“No lot, parcel, or building shall be used or occupied until a certificate of occupancy has been issued pursuant to applicable provisions of building codes and regulations adopted by the County. No certificate of occupancy shall be issued unless the building and the lot or parcel on which the building is located conform to applicable provisions of this Code and other building codes and regulations adopted by the County.”
Chapter 1 – General Provisions ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Projects in unincorporated Box Elder County subject to the county outdoor-lighting standards, including projects with existing lighting directly impacted by a building-permit application and projects with proposed lighting output of at least 100,000 lumens.
  “These outdoor lighting standards apply to all areas of unincorporated Box Elder County. [...] For all projects where the total initial output of the proposed lighting equals or exceeds 100,000 lumens, certification that the lighting, as installed, conforms to the approved plans shall be provided by a certified engineer before the certificate of occupancy is issued.”
  Chapter 5-9 Outdoor Lighting Standards ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)
County-administered zoning in unincorporated Box Elder County.
- The County Land Use Management & Development Code establishes zoning districts and an Official Zoning Map.
- Each lot or parcel within the unincorporated boundaries is subject to the requirements of its mapped zone.
- The County does not oversee land-use development within municipalities.
- The County has significant areas of unzoned land, and proposed zoning for those parcels was under countywide review as of September 15, 2026.
- Parcel-specific applicability requires checking the Official Zoning Map.
“Each lot or parcel within the unincorporated boundaries of Box Elder County shall be subject to the requirements of the zone, or zones, in which the lot or parcel is located as shown on the Official Zoning Map.”
Land Use Management & Development Code ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Local zoningVaries (with conditions)
Aggregate local-zoning conclusion for territory within Box Elder County, including county-administered unincorporated areas and incorporated municipalities.
- The county administers land-use development only in unincorporated Box Elder County.
- Land-use inquiries, applications, and development matters within a municipal boundary must be directed to the specific municipality.
- Within unincorporated areas, zoning varies by mapped zone and significant areas were officially identified as unzoned as of September 15, 2026.
- A parcel-specific determination requires checking the applicable county or municipal zoning authority and map.
“No, Box Elder County only oversees land use development for unincorporated Box Elder County. For land use questions within a municipality, we would refer you to the specific municipality.”
Community Development FAQ ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning across Box Elder County, including county regulation of unincorporated areas and separate municipal land-use regulation within municipalities.
  “No, Box Elder County only oversees land use development for unincorporated Box Elder County. For land use questions within a municipality, we would refer you to the specific municipality.”
  Does the Box Elder County Community Development Department have jurisdiction over the whole county? ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)
Single-family dwelling structures on parcels in the R-1-8 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
- The chapter states that it applies to residential-zone real property shown on the Official Zoning Map.
- The R-1-8 zone is described as an existing-parcel zone and is not an option for rezoning.
- Other applicable county code and land-use requirements may also apply.
zone: R-1-8 · minimum lot area: 8000 square feet
“R-1-8 3-3-080-1 AREA REGULATIONS 3-3-080-1.1 The minimum lot area in square feet for a single-family dwelling structure in the district regulated by this chapter shall be: 8,000”
Chapter 3-3 – Residential District ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
17 more reviewed findings on this topic
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the MU-160 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the MU-80 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the MU-40 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the A-20 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the A-1/2 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the RR-10 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the RR-5 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the RR-2 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the RR-1 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “MU 160 MU 80 MU 40 A 20 A 1/2 RR 10 RR 5 RR 2 RR 1 [...] The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 – Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the RR-20 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “RR-20 & R-1-20 3-7-080-1 AREA REGULATIONS 3-7-080-1.1 The minimum lot area in square feet for any main use shall be: 20,000 sq. ft.”
  Chapter 3-7 – Rural Residential District RR-20 and Residential District R-1-20 ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses on parcels in the R-1-20 zone shown on the Box Elder County Official Zoning Map.
  “RR-20 & R-1-20 3-7-080-1 AREA REGULATIONS 3-7-080-1.1 The minimum lot area in square feet for any main use shall be: 20,000 sq. ft.”
  Chapter 3-7 – Rural Residential District RR-20 and Residential District R-1-20 ↗Re-checked Sep 23, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses in Box Elder County minimal-use, agricultural, and rural-residential districts.
  “The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 Multiple Use, Agriculture, & Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
- Specified — Single-family dwelling structures in the existing R-1-8 residential district.
  “The minimum lot area in square feet for a single-family dwelling structure in the district regulated by this chapter shall be: 8,000”
  Chapter 3-3 Residential District ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
- Specified — Recreational vehicle facilities for agritourism in unzoned areas and Box Elder County zones with a density of five acres or greater.
  “Recreational vehicle facilities for agritourism shall be allowed in all unzoned areas and zones of a density of five (5) acres or greater. A minimum of five (5) acres is required for a recreational vehicle facility for agritourism. A single owner across contiguous parcels may count all their acreage used for agricultural production towards the minimum acreage requirement.”
  Chapter 3-6 – Recreational Vehicle Facilities for Agritourism ↗Re-checked Sep 27, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Residential lots and residential development in Box Elder County's Agricultural Heritage Zone (AHZ).
  “AHZ Residential 20,000 sq. ft. unless the lot is on a well. [...] The base density for the AHZ shall be 5 acres if the lots will be connected to a culinary tap from a water company and is located along a paved road. The base density for lots that are connected to a well or that are along a gravel road shall be 10 acres.”
  Chapter 3-10 Agricultural Heritage Zone (AHZ) ↗Re-checked Sep 27, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main uses in Box Elder County MU-160, MU-80, MU-40, A-20, A-1/2, RR-10, RR-5, RR-2, and RR-1 districts.
  “The minimum lot area in acres for any main use in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 160 80 40 20 1/2 10 5 2 1”
  Chapter 3-2 Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential District ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
- Specified — Any main use in the RR-20 and R-1-20 districts.
  “The minimum lot area in square feet for any main use shall be: 20,000 sq. ft.”
  Chapter 3-7 Rural Residential District RR-20 and Residential District R-1-20 ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)
Buildings and structures in the Chapter 3-4 C-N, C-S, C-H, C-G, M-FP, M-G, and C-E districts.
- The ordered district columns are C-N, C-S, C-H, C-G, M-FP, M-G, and C-E.
- The front-yard minimum is 25 feet in all listed districts except the manufacturing distribution front yard, which is 150 feet in M-FP.
- The side-yard minimum is 10 feet in all listed districts.
- Corner-lot side yards are 25 feet in C-N, C-S, C-H, C-G, M-FP, and C-E, and 10 feet in M-G.
- The rear-yard minimum is 20 feet in all listed districts.
- The document footer states it was updated 07-30-2026; this is a revision stamp, not an effective date.
side yard: 10 feet (all listed commercial and manufacturing districts) · corner-lot side yard: 25 feet (C-N, C-S, C-H, C-G, M-FP, and C-E) · corner-lot side yard: 10 feet (M-G) · rear yard: 20 feet (all listed commercial and manufacturing districts)
“Front yard for Manufacturing Distribution Structures 25 25 25 25 150 25 25 Front Yard 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 Side Yard 10 10 10 10 10 10 10”
Chapter 3-4 Commercial Zone & Manufacturing ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- Specified — Main and accessory buildings in the existing R-1-8 district.
  “The minimum depth in feet for the front yard for main buildings in districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 30 [...] The minimum depth in feet for the rear yard in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 25”
  Chapter 3-3 Residential District ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main buildings in the Chapter 3-2 MU-160, MU-80, MU-40, A-20, A-1/2, RR-10, RR-5, RR-2, and RR-1 districts in unincorporated Box Elder County.
  “The minimum side yard in feet for any main building in districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: 60 60 60 60 15 60 20 20 15”
  Chapter 3-2 Multiple Use, Agriculture, & Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
- Specified — Main and accessory buildings in the RR-20 and R-1-20 districts.
  “The minimum depth in feet for the front yard for main buildings and accessory buildings shall be: 30 feet Where the existing minimum right-of-way on which the lot front is less than 66 feet, the setback shall be measured from the center line and in feet shall be no less than: 66 feet”
  Chapter 3-7 Rural Residential District RR-20 and Residential District R-1-20 ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Main and accessory buildings in MU, A, and RR districts regulated by Chapter 3-2.
  “The minimum depth in feet for the front yard for main buildings and accessory buildings in districts regulated by this chapter shall be: 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30”
  Chapter 3-2 Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential District ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)
Lot coverage in MU, A, and RR districts regulated by Chapter 3-2.
- The source lists coverage values in table order: MU-160, MU-80, MU-40, A-20, A-1/2, RR-10, RR-5, RR-2, RR-1.
- A dash indicates no numeric coverage value in the displayed table; it is not treated as proof of absence.
maximum lot coverage by district: MU-160: not numerically stated; MU-80: not numerically stated; MU-40: not numerically stated; A-20: not numerically stated; A-1/2: 40%; RR-10: 5%; RR-5: 10%; RR-2: 25%; RR-1: 20% percent
“The maximum coverage in percent for any lot in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: - - - - 40 5 10 25 20”
Chapter 3-2 Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential District ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
- District specific (with conditions) — Maximum lot coverage in Box Elder County minimal-use, agricultural, and rural-residential districts regulated by Chapter 3-2.
  “The maximum coverage in percent for any lot in the districts regulated by this Chapter shall be: - - - - 40 5 10 25 20”
  Chapter 3-2 Multiple Use, Agriculture, & Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
- Specified — Accessory buildings or groups of accessory buildings in any Box Elder County residential district.
  “No accessory building or group of accessory buildings in any residential district shall cover more than twenty-five (25) percent of the lot or parcel.”
  Chapter 5-1 Regulation Applicable to all Zones ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
- Specified — Lots in the RR-20 and R-1-20 districts.
  “The maximum coverage in percent for any lot shall be: 40%”
  Chapter 3-7 Rural Residential District RR-20 and Residential District R-1-20 ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)
Non-agricultural buildings and structures in the Chapter 3-2 MU-160, MU-80, MU-40, A-20, A-1/2, RR-10, RR-5, RR-2, and RR-1 districts.
- The ordered district table gives 35 feet or 2½ stories for each listed district.
- Agricultural buildings are excepted from this maximum-height rule.
maximum building height: 35 feet (agricultural buildings) · maximum building height: 2½ stories (agricultural buildings)
“Except for agricultural buildings, the maximum height for all buildings and structures in districts regulated by this chapter shall be: 35 feet or 2½ stories”
Chapter 3-2 Multiple Use, Agriculture, & Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
- District specific (with conditions) — Buildings and structures in Box Elder County minimal-use, agricultural, and rural-residential districts regulated by Chapter 3-2.
  “Except for agricultural buildings, the maximum height for all buildings and structures in districts regulated by this chapter shall be: 35 feet or 2½ stories”
  Chapter 3-2 Multiple Use, Agriculture, & Rural Residential ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — All buildings and structures in the RR-20 and R-1-20 districts regulated by Chapter 3-7.
  “The maximum height for all buildings and structures shall be: 35 feet or 2 ½ stories”
  Chapter 3-7 Rural Residential District RR-20 and Residential District R-1-20 ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
- District specific (with conditions) — Buildings and structures in MU, A, and RR districts regulated by Chapter 3-2, excluding agricultural buildings.
  “Except for agricultural buildings, the maximum height for all buildings and structures in districts regulated by this chapter shall be: 35 feet or 2½ stories”
  Chapter 3-2 Minimal Use, Agricultural, and Rural Residential District ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
- Specified — Buildings and structures in the RR-20 and R-1-20 districts.
  “The maximum height for all buildings and structures shall be: 35 feet or 2 ½ stories”
  Chapter 3-7 Rural Residential District RR-20 and Residential District R-1-20 ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Living in an RVLimited
Occupancy and residential use of recreational vehicles on lots or parcels in unincorporated Box Elder County.
- Recreational vehicles may not be used as permanent living in unincorporated Box Elder County.
- Occupancy is limited to no more than 14 consecutive days and no more than 90 total days in a calendar year, for recreational use only.
- An individual with an issued building permit may reside in an RV during construction of a single-family dwelling, beginning on permit issuance and ending after 365 days or issuance of the certificate of occupancy, whichever is less.
- Long-term permanent RV living may occur in a designated and permitted mobile home or recreational vehicle park.
- Agricultural workforce housing is an exception.
- RV dumping is allowed only at approved dumping facilities; unused RVs may be stored on a private residential lot if code-compliant and not in the public right-of-way or front yard.
maximum consecutive occupancy: <= 14 days (Recreational use only; permanent living is prohibited.) · maximum annual occupancy: <= 90 days per calendar year (Recreational use only.) · construction-period occupancy: <= 365 days (Ends earlier upon certificate of occupancy.)
“Recreational vehicles shall not be occupied on a lot or parcel for more than 14 consecutive days and no more than 90 total days of any single calendar year.”
Chapter 5-1 Regulation Applicable to All Zones ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Camping on your landLimited
Temporary recreational-vehicle camping on a lot or parcel in unincorporated Box Elder County.
- The County Code limits recreational-vehicle occupancy to recreational use only.
- Occupancy is limited to 14 consecutive days and 90 total days in a single calendar year.
- Permanent living is prohibited, except in designated and permitted mobile home or recreational vehicle parks, and the listed construction and agricultural-workforce exceptions apply.
- Dumping is allowed only at approved dumping facilities.
maximum stay: <= 14 consecutive days (recreational use only) · annual maximum: <= 90 days (single calendar year)
“more than 14 consecutive days and no more than 90 total days”
Chapter 5-1: Regulation Applicable to All Zones ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
Accessory dwellingsLimited
Detached accessory dwelling units on parcels in unincorporated Box Elder County located in a zone that allows a single-family residence.
- An administrative conditional use permit from the zoning administrator is required.
- The property owner must occupy either the principal unit, the ADU, or the IADU as a permanent residence, and the application must include evidence of owner occupancy.
- The ADU may not be sold separately from the main unit and may not be rented for periods of less than 30 days.
- Only one ADU or IADU may be created per lot or property in zones allowing single-family dwellings.
- The ADU must comply with applicable building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fire, health, and other codes; separate utility meters and separate addresses are prohibited.
- The minimum lot size is 20,000 square feet.
- The ADU may not be located in a front or corner-lot side yard and must meet the primary residence's zoning setbacks.
- The ADU and main dwelling must be on the same parcel and may not be subdivided.
- The ADU must be compatible with surrounding exterior colors and materials; its maximum height may not exceed the roof elevation of the primary structure.
- At least one off-street parking space is required.
- More restrictive subdivision CC&Rs govern where applicable.
- The zoning administrator may impose additional or more stringent conditions under Section 2-2-110.
- Multi-family homes, mobile homes, RVs, trailers, campers, tents, and other temporary structures or vehicles do not qualify as an ADU or IADU.
- The owner must record an affidavit and notice against the property; a future purchaser must sign and record a new affidavit and reauthorize the ADU.
- The county page lists an Administrative Conditional Use Permit application fee of $375 for 2026.
- All ADUs must be reviewed and approved for septic feasibility by the Bear River Health Department.
minimum lot size: >= 20000 square feet (applies in all zones that allow single-family dwellings) · maximum ADU area: < 40 percent of primary residence square footage · minimum off-street parking: >= 1 space (for the ADU or IADU) · transient rental period: >= 30 days (rentals for periods less than 30 days are prohibited) · administrative conditional use permit fee: 375 USD (2026 county fee schedule)
“An ADU meeting the regulations and standards, as specified in this chapter, may be allowed in any zone that allows a single-family residence after approval of an administrative conditional use permit (§2-2-110) by the zoning administrator.”
Chapter 5-6 Accessory Dwelling Units ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Who permits septicLocal
Septic feasibility and septic permitting for Box Elder County properties served by the Bear River Health Department.
- The Bear River Health Department serves Cache, Box Elder, and Rich counties.
- Box Elder County South applications are handled through the BRHD Brigham City office; Box Elder County North applications are handled through the BRHD Tremonton office.
“Bear River Health department [...] septic feasibility in [...] Box Elder”
Subdivision Septic System Feasibility Application instructions ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
Septic permitRequired
Constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system in Box Elder County where sewer lines are not available.
- The Bear River Health Department page states the requirement applies where sewer lines are not available.
- The page lists fees of $840 for a conventional septic system permit, $1,040 for a commercial septic system, $350 for an alteration permit, and $0 for a repair permit.
- The permit must meet design and location standards based on soil conditions, site plan, and soil percolation test results.
conventional septic system permit fee: 840 USD (includes $800 conventional septic system permit plus $40 Utah Department of Environmental Quality fee) · commercial septic system permit fee: 1040 USD (includes $1,000 commercial septic system permit plus $40 Utah Department of Environmental Quality fee) · alteration septic system permit fee: 350 USD · repair septic system permit fee: 0 USD
“A septic permit is a legal document required by Bear River Health Department before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system on a property where sewer lines are not available.”
Environmental Health - Bear River Health Department ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Onsite wastewater sanitation for subdivision development in unincorporated Box Elder County when public sewer is unavailable or impractical.
- Where sewer is not available or practical, wastewater from subdivision building developments must be connected to onsite wastewater systems.
- A septic feasibility letter from the Bear River Health Department is required for any development unless it is serviced by a sanitary sewer system.
- A septic permit is required before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system where sewer lines are unavailable.
- This claim does not establish permission for composting toilets, holding tanks, or other non-septic sanitation systems.
“Where sewer is not available or practical, [...] connected to onsite wastewater systems (septic systems).”
Subdivision Septic System Feasibility Application instructions ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Off-sewer residential wastewater disposal through an onsite wastewater system in Box Elder County.
  “A septic permit is a legal document required by Bear River Health Department before constructing, altering, or repairing a septic system on a property where sewer lines are not available.”
  Environmental Health - Bear River Health Department ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Mandatory utility hookupConditional
Wastewater disposal for subdivision building developments in Box Elder County where sewer service is unavailable or impractical.
- Where sewer is available and practical, the cited source does not state a specific connection-distance threshold or mandatory connection procedure.
- Where sewer is unavailable or impractical, wastewater drainage must connect to an onsite wastewater system.
- Subdivision feasibility requires information about the nearest sewer, sewer owner, service boundary, and sewer size.
“Where sewer is not available or practical, the drainage systems of all wastewater (kitchen, bathroom, laundry, etc.) from subdivision building developments are required to be connected to onsite wastewater systems (septic systems).”
Subdivision Septic System Feasibility Application instructions ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Agricultural exemptionConditional
Agricultural buildings in Box Elder County submitted through the County agricultural-building application process.
- The structure must be used solely in conjunction with agriculture and must not be for human occupancy, or must be no more than 1,500 square feet and used solely for the specified sales described in Utah Code § 59-12-104(20).
- Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits may still be required when that work is included.
- Unless otherwise exempted, the structure is not exempt when located within a city or town and on less than five contiguous acres, or within a county-approved subdivision and on less than two contiguous acres.
- The County application states that the building may not be used for residential or commercial purposes other than agriculture and that a site plan identifying the structure and setbacks from property lines must be submitted.
sales-structure maximum size: <= 1500 square feet (Used solely for the type of sales described in Utah Code § 59-12-104(20)) · city or town acreage threshold: < 5 contiguous acres (Not exempt unless located in an agricultural protection area or otherwise exempted) · county-approved subdivision acreage threshold: < 2 contiguous acres (Not exempt unless otherwise exempted)
“Except as provided in Subsection (11)(b), a structure used solely in conjunction with agriculture use, and not for human occupancy, or a structure that is no more than 1,500 square feet and used solely for the type of sales described in Subsection 59-12-104(20), is exempt from the permit requirements of the State Construction Code.”
Agricultural Building Application and Statement ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Conditional — Agricultural buildings requiring county building-permit processing in Box Elder County.
  “Agricultural Exemptions Form A site plan showing where on the property the agricultural building will be located and how many feet it will be from each property line needs to be submitted with the application.”
  Building Permits / Inspection ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Division, re-subdivision, or proposed division of land in unincorporated Box Elder County for offer, sale, lease, or development.
- Subdivision review may involve Roads, Building, GIS, Fire, Engineer/Surveyor, and Planning Departments.
- Required materials include a Utah-licensed professional surveyor's plat, utility will-serve letters, Bear River Health Department septic feasibility letter, current title report, and county application.
- Property within 1/2 mile of an existing municipal boundary may be subject to the county annexation policy before county processing.
- Small subdivisions are no more than three new building lots without public improvements and remain subject to all applicable code requirements.
“It shall be unlawful for any person to subdivide any tract or parcel of land which is located wholly or in part in the County except in compliance with this Code.”
Subdivisions ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Driveway accessRequired
Access to residential and nonresidential lots and uses in unincorporated Box Elder County.
- Adequate ingress and egress must be provided to and from all uses.
- For each residential lot, no more than one access driveway is allowed and it may be no more than 20 feet wide at the street lot line.
- A residential lot with frontage greater than 100 feet may provide two access driveways, each up to 12 feet wide, for circular driveways and other special circulation and parking.
- For nonresidential lots, no more than two driveways may be used per 100 feet of frontage.
- Nonresidential driveways must be at least 12 feet apart and at least 3 feet from a side property line.
- Nonresidential driveways may be no more than 35 feet wide, subject to the stated curb-return exception.
- Additional corner and frontage marking requirements apply.
residential access driveways: <= 1 per residential lot (lots with frontage greater than 100 feet may provide two driveways) · residential driveway width: <= 20 feet at street lot line (frontage greater than 100 feet permits two driveways up to 12 feet each) · nonresidential driveways: <= 2 per 100 feet of frontage · nonresidential driveway separation: >= 12 feet · side property line clearance: >= 3 feet · nonresidential driveway width: <= 35 feet (may be increased by permissible curb return radii)
“Adequate ingress and egress to and from all uses shall be provided as follows:”
Chapter 5-2 Off-Street Parking Requirements ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Building permits and related building inspections, plan reviews, deposits, and state fees administered by Box Elder County Buildings and Grounds.
- The consolidated county fee schedule is effective 01/01/2026.
- The building permit fee adopts the State ICC Fee Structure rather than stating one flat county amount.
- Dwellings have a plan-review fee of 50% of the building permit fee; commercial projects have a plan-review fee of 65%; miscellaneous plan review is 50%.
- Dwelling deposits are $1,700 and commercial deposits are $2,500.
- A state fee of 1% of the building permit fee applies.
- Mobile inspection, solar inspection, generator/battery, pump, meter-upgrade, travel, and other listed charges may apply as separately scheduled.
building permit fee: Adopt State ICC Fee Structure · dwelling plan review: 50 percent of building permit fee · commercial plan review: 65 percent of building permit fee · miscellaneous plan review: 50 percent of building permit fee · dwelling deposit: 1700 USD · commercial deposit: 2500 USD · state fee: 1 percent of building permit fee
“CONSOLIDATED FEE SCHEDULE EFFECTIVE 01/01/2026 [...] Building Permit Fee | Adopt State ICC Fee Structure [...] Dwellings | 50% of Building Permit Fee Commercial | 65% of Building Permit Fee Misc. | 50% of Building Permit Fee [...] Dwellings | $1,700.00 Commercial | $2,500.00 State Fee | 1% of Building Permit Fee”
2026 Fee Schedule for Buildings & Grounds ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Building permit applications and inspections administered by Box Elder County.
- Applicants must submit all required documents.
- The county states that standard processing takes 7 to 10 business days after receiving all required documents.
- The county contacts applicants if additional information is required, so a valid email address and phone number should be provided.
- Inspections require 24-hour notice.
- A building permit application and supporting documents are available through the county page.
standard processing time: 7 to 10 business days (after the office receives all required documents) · inspection notice: >= 24 hours
“Once our office receives all required documents, the standard processing time for all permits is 7 to 10 business days.”
Building Permits / Inspection ↗Re-checked Sep 24, 2026

Utah rules that apply here

Well permitRequired
Domestic and other water-production wells in Box Elder County, under Utah State Engineer and Division of Water Rights regulation.
- A valid water right must exist before construction and beneficial use of a shallow water well.
- A Start Card issued upon water-right approval is the permit to construct the well.
- Water production wells, including domestic wells, are regulated under Utah Administrative Code R655-4.
- A licensed well driller or licensed shallow-water-well constructor must perform applicable construction work.
- The State Engineer may restrict or deny new water-right applications depending on whether the area is open, restricted, or closed to new water rights.
“A Start Card is issued upon approval of the water right, which is essentially the permit to construct the well.”
Water Well Drilling Information ↗Re-checked Sep 29, 2026
Campground & park staysLimited
Temporary RV occupancy in Utah recreational vehicle parks providing temporary living quarters for two or more recreational vehicles.
- The location must be an RV park as defined by Rule R392-301.
- The operator must comply with all applicable building, zoning, electrical, health, fire codes and local ordinances.
- Each RV must satisfy the required data-plate or permanent-label and certification or qualified third-party inspection requirements.
- Wastewater must comply with the rule, applicable Utah Department of Environmental Quality requirements, local health department regulations, and the local sewer district having jurisdiction.
minimum number of recreational vehicles: >= 2 vehicles
“A recreational vehicle or a tiny house may be allowed in a recreational vehicle park only if:”
Utah Administrative Code Rule R392-301, Recreational Vehicle Parks ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
One more reviewed finding on this topic
- Limited — Tiny houses in Utah RV parks; the state source also states that tiny-home permission in a particular area depends on local land-use regulations.
  “A recreational vehicle or a tiny house may be allowed in a recreational vehicle park only if:”
  OPRO Accessory Dwellings (ADU's) and other dwelling types ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
county zoning authorityGeneral
Utah counties may enact land-use controls, including zoning ordinances, for land in unincorporated areas statewide.
- The authority is subject to Utah Code Section 17-79-101(4) and Section 11-41-103.
- The statutory grant expressly covers the unincorporated area of a county and a designated mountainous planning district.
- The quoted provision lists uses, density, open spaces, structures, and buildings among the subjects of permissible land-use controls.
“Subject to Subsection (4) and Section 11-41-103, to accomplish the purposes of this chapter, a county may enact all ordinances, resolutions, and rules and may enter into other forms of land use controls and development agreements that the county considers necessary or appropriate for the use and development of land within the unincorporated area of the county or a designated mountainous planning district”
Utah Code, Title 17, Chapter 79, Section 17-79-101 ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026
county building authorityGeneral
Utah counties may adopt and enforce building regulations and require building permits for construction in unincorporated areas statewide.
- The general county building-regulation authority applies outside the limits of cities and towns.
- Local regulations may not conflict with general laws.
- Under Utah Code Section 17-79-901, erecting, constructing, reconstructing, altering, or changing the use of a building or other structure within a county requires approval of a building permit.
- A county may not issue a building permit unless the plans fully conform to regulations then in effect.
- The county permit authority is subject to the State Construction and Fire Codes Act and other statutory limitations.
“A county may make and enforce within the limits of the county, outside the limits of cities and towns, all local, police, building, and sanitary regulations that are not in conflict with general laws.”
Utah Code Section 17-60-204, County safety and welfare regulations ↗Re-checked Sep 21, 2026

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size requirements in unincorporated Box Elder County.
Tiny homes — Occupancy of tiny homes in unincorporated Box Elder County.
Manufactured homes — Occupancy of manufactured homes in unincorporated Box Elder County, distinct from the Code's provisions expressly addressing mobile homes and recreational vehicles.
Septic inspection — Inspection of residential septic systems in Box Elder County.
Building in a floodplain — Development activities and Floodplain Development Permit requirements governed by Box Elder County Chapter 5-4, Flood Damage Prevention.

1 more unanswered

Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Box Elder County, Utah

Is Box Elder County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Box Elder County scores 41/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 107 people within 15 miles. Watch-outs: weak self-sufficiency basics: only 12.4″ of rain a year, in severe drought 30.3% of years and elevated mid-century heat, water, rain, or wildfire exposure.

Do you need a building permit in Box Elder County, Utah?

Box Elder County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Bear River Health Department. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Box Elder County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Box Elder County is limited to specific cases: Occupancy and residential use of recreational vehicles on lots or parcels in unincorporated Box Elder County. Recreational vehicles may not be used as permanent living in unincorporated Box Elder County. Occupancy is limited to no more than 14 consecutive days and no more than 90 total days in a calendar year, for recreational use only. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Box Elder County, Utah?

Land in Box Elder County runs about $2,495 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Box Elder County?

Box Elder County gets about 12.4" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 30.3% of years.

How remote is Box Elder County?

A typical private-land location has about 107 people within 15 miles and 2,777,364 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Box Elder County, Utah

At a glance

Who to call

Do you need a building permit in Box Elder County, Utah?

Who is the Box Elder County building department, and how do you reach them?

Does Box Elder County have zoning?

How do septic permits work in Box Elder County?

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Box Elder County?

Building a home in Box Elder County: the steps, in order

What to check before you buy land in Box Elder County

Watch-outs

Sources

Box Elder County in Utah

How Box Elder County scores

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Parcel due diligence

Answers from the rulebook for Box Elder County

Box Elder County rules

Utah rules that apply here

Still unanswered

Living off-grid in Box Elder County, Utah

Is Box Elder County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Do you need a building permit in Box Elder County, Utah?

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Box Elder County?

How much does land cost in Box Elder County, Utah?

What is the water situation in Box Elder County?

How remote is Box Elder County?

How Box Elder compares in Utah