Bolthole Index

Utah County, Utah

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Utah County, Utah

44Index Score / 100
#18 of 29 in Utah

Unincorporated Utah County, Utah requires a building permit before construction, a change of use, or regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work begins1. Utah County Community Development also administers zoning outside city limits2. Septic approval comes from the Utah County Health Department, while floodplain and county-road access permits come from Public Works345.

At a glance

Building permit
Required before construction, a change of use, or regulated system work in unincorporated Utah County1
Zoning
Yes; Utah County Community Development administers zoning only in unincorporated areas2
Septic permit
Required through Utah County Health Department Environmental Health; system permit and plan review is $1,8006
RV living
County-defined camping is temporary and lasts less than 45 days per calendar year; do not assume year-round RV occupancy is allowed7
Tiny home
No blanket county answer; treatment depends on local land-use rules and whether the unit is a primary, accessory, modular, or manufactured dwelling82
Owner-builder
Conditional for a sole owner building for personal, noncommercial use; the county certification sets project-history and labor limits9
Minimum lot size
Zone-specific; a one-family dwelling generally needs 5 acres in RR-5 and 50 acres in CE-1, subject to listed exceptions1011
Private well
A valid water right and state Start Card are required before well construction12

Who to call

Building permits

Utah County Community Development - Building

Building permits for unincorporated Utah County

801-851-8343

[email protected]

51 South University Avenue, Suite 117, Provo, Utah 84601

Online permits →

Zoning

Utah County Community Development - Planning & Zoning

Zoning and zone-clearance requests for unincorporated Utah County

801-851-8343

[email protected]

51 South University Avenue, Suite 117, Provo, Utah 84601

Online permits →

Septic permits

Utah County Health Department - Environmental Health

Onsite wastewater review and permits for Utah County

(801) 851-7525

Health and Justice Building, 151 S University Ave, Suite 2600, Provo, Utah 84601

Floodplain permits

Utah County Public Works - Floodplain

Floodplain development permits in unincorporated Utah County

801-851-8600

[email protected]

2855 South State Street, Provo, UT 84606

Online permits →

Roads & driveways

Utah County Public Works - Access Permits

Access permits for driveways or street connections to Utah County roads

801-851-8600

[email protected]

2855 South State Street, Provo, UT 84606

Online permits →

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 Utah County, Utah?

Yes. Unincorporated Utah County requires owners or their agents to obtain a building permit before starting construction, changing a building's use, or doing regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work1. The county has adopted the Utah State Construction Code for unincorporated areas, along with the agricultural-building appendix13. A structure used for agriculture and not for human occupancy may qualify for an exemption from applicable building-permit requirements, but separate land-use, health, fire, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical requirements can still apply1415. A qualifying sole owner may use the county's owner-builder certification for personal, noncommercial residential work, subject to limits on project history and who performs the work9. Permitted work must be inspected before it is concealed, and the structure cannot be occupied until final approval1617.

Who issues Utah County building permits, and how do you reach them?

Utah County Community Development's Building Division issues building permits for unincorporated Utah County from 51 South University Avenue, Suite 117, Provo, Utah 8460118. Call 801-851-8343 or email [email protected]18. Property inside a city follows that municipality's codes and permit process instead18. To apply, complete the building permit application, attach the plans and documents required for the project type, and submit the package in person or electronically19. Utah County reviews the materials and may request corrections; after approval, the applicant signs the necessary documents, pays the required fees, and obtains the permit19. The county does not publish a single building-permit price on that application page, so ask the Building Division for a project-specific fee calculation before budgeting.

Does Utah County have zoning?

Utah County Community Development administers zoning throughout unincorporated Utah County; land inside a city is governed by that municipality220. The county publishes a zoning map for general information, but directs parcel-specific questions to Community Development21. In RR-5, a one-family dwelling generally needs at least 5 acres, subject to listed exceptions, and buildings other than a dwelling may cover no more than 15% of the lot1022. In CE-1, a one-family dwelling generally needs at least 50 acres11. Qualifying accessory dwelling units are allowed in zones where that use is listed as permitted; the county generally allows one per parcel and requires building, fire, health, parking, water, and sewage compliance23. Request written zone clearance before relying on a map or listing24.

How do septic permits work in Utah County?

Utah County Health Department Environmental Health administers onsite wastewater review and permitting in Utah County3. The published system permit and plan-review fee is $1,800, including the current state fee; repairs, alternative systems, holding tanks, abandonment, and vault privies have separate entries6. Call Environmental Health at (801) 851-7525 or visit the Health and Justice Building, 151 S University Ave, Suite 2600, Provo, Utah 8460125. Only 9.4% of county soils are rated free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so complete site and soil work before committing to a house location or price26. The available annual-inspection rule concerns operating permits for large underground wastewater disposal systems, not every residential septic system27. A dwelling must connect to public sewer when sewer is available and practicable; otherwise it needs an adequate onsite or approved wastewater system28.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on land in Utah County?

Utah County's unincorporated-area ordinance defines camping as a recreational or temporary activity lasting less than 45 days per calendar year in a tent, trailer, camper, or other recreational vehicle7. County RV courts and commercial campgrounds likewise cannot allow an RV or camp user to remain more than 45 days in a calendar year29. Camping on county-owned property is allowed only in a designated county campground or with prior written county authorization30. These rules do not confirm year-round RV residence on a private parcel. Utah County allows qualifying accessory dwelling units where the zone lists them as permitted23. The county also allows qualifying manufactured homes in specified zones with a federal seal, permanent-foundation features, a building permit, and zoning compliance31. We could not confirm a separate county rule for tiny homes; ask Planning & Zoning for written zone clearance on the exact parcel and proposed unit24.

What are the steps to build a home in Utah County?

  1. Confirm that the parcel is outside city limits; Utah County Community Development serves unincorporated land only18.
  1. Request written zone clearance and verify the applicable zone, dwelling use, lot size, and parcel-specific constraints241011.
  1. Secure a water source. A private well requires a valid water right and a state Start Card before construction12.
  1. Obtain Health Department wastewater approval, or confirm that connection to available, practicable public sewer is required628.
  1. Obtain floodplain approval and road-access approval where applicable; state-highway access requires a UDOT conditional access permit32533.
  1. Submit the building application and plans, respond to corrections, pay the assessed fees, and obtain the permit19.
  1. Schedule inspections before work is concealed and obtain final approval before occupancy1617.

What should you check before buying land in Utah County?

Start with zoning and buildability: Utah County's minimum lot size varies sharply by district, and a recorded planned development or nonconforming-lot status can change the answer101134. Check wastewater feasibility early because only 9.4% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field26. Verify water rights before assuming a domestic well can be drilled; a valid right and Start Card are required before well construction12. Map flood hazards because development in a designated floodplain needs a county permit before work begins32. Confirm legal access: county-road driveways need Public Works approval and must meet county standards for width, spacing, drainage, approach angle, grade, and surfacing535. A state-highway connection instead needs UDOT approval33. Finally, budget around an effective property-tax rate of about 0.5% and a median annual property-tax bill of about $2,2343637.

Watch-outs

  • Utah County rules and offices described here apply to unincorporated land; property inside a city follows that municipality's process20.
  • County-defined camping is temporary and lasts less than 45 days per calendar year, so do not treat a rural parcel as authorization for permanent RV occupancy7.
  • A private well cannot be built merely because groundwater may be present; the owner needs a valid water right and a state Start Card first12.
  • County-road driveways must meet county design standards in addition to obtaining Public Works approval355.

Sources

  1. Building - Utah County Community Development, quoted and re-checked
  2. Utah County Zoning Map, quoted and re-checked
  3. Annual Permits & Certifications, quoted and re-checked
  4. Utah County Public Works - Floodplain (publicworks.utahcounty.gov)
  5. Utah County Public Works - Access Permits (publicworks.utahcounty.gov)
  6. Fee Schedule 2026, quoted and re-checked
  7. Utah County Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  8. OPRO Accessory Dwellings (ADU's) and other dwelling types (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  9. Building - Utah County Community Development, quoted and re-checked
  10. Utah County Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. Utah County Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  12. FAQs, quoted and re-checked
  13. Utah County Code, Chapter 7, Building, quoted and re-checked
  14. Planning & Zoning - Utah County Community Development, quoted and re-checked
  15. Utah Code § 15A-1-204 (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Building - Utah County Community Development, quoted and re-checked
  17. Utah County Building Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  18. Utah County Community Development - Building (codev.utahcounty.gov)
  19. Building - Utah County Community Development, quoted and re-checked
  20. Utah County Zoning Map, quoted and re-checked
  21. Utah County Zoning Map, quoted and re-checked
  22. Utah County Land Use Ordinance Update, quoted and re-checked
  23. Utah County Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  24. Utah County Community Development - Planning & Zoning (codev.utahcounty.gov)
  25. Utah County Health Department - Environmental Health (health.utahcounty.gov)
  26. Share of soils without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field (USDA SSURGO): Bolthole Index county data
  27. Onsite Wastewater Program, quoted and re-checked
  28. DAR File No. 37575, Rule R317-4, Onsite Wastewater Systems (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Utah County Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  30. Utah County Code, Chapter 13-9 Camping, quoted and re-checked
  31. Utah County Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  32. Floodplain - Utah County Public Works, quoted and re-checked
  33. Conditional Access Permit (Utah statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  34. Utah County Land Use Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  35. Utah County Code, Chapter 17-6, quoted and re-checked
  36. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

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.

Found land here? Start a Property Hunt →

County locator

Utah County in Utah

44
County map
Utah County highlighted among the Utah counties · colored by Index score

How Utah County scores

Seclusion27100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency4298% ev.
Admin Boringness39100% ev.
Durability45100% ev.
Property Autonomy60100% ev.
Carry Cost43100% 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 →

$549kTypical home
0.5%Property tax
$15,104Land / acre
19.1"Annual rain
33% of yrsSevere drought
4.8 / yr (+4.3)Mid-century 100°F days
26.1 daysMid-century dry spell
1.03" (+6.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.15×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,044Home insurance / yr
4% / yrInsurance growth
0.87%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
2,057,624People within 2 hr
112,962Radius comparison (15 mi)
358.9People / sq mi
47.5%Federal land
51.1%Land at 15% slope or less
9.4%Septic soil without severe limits
77,396 acWorkable land screen
45.4%Wooded land
23.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
47.2°FAvg temp

Scout Utah County

Camp here before you commitBook a few nights nearby on Hipcamp →Already own land here?Earn money hosting campers — get $100 when you become a Hipcamp host →

Some links are affiliate or referral links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Property hunt

Find land. Bring the promising ones back.

Search live inventory elsewhere, then cost and vet each candidate here. No copied listings, account, or paid data feed.

View your full hunt →
ZillowLand & lotsRealtor.comLand listingsLandSearchRural & vacant land

Each button opens a current land search for Utah County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.

Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances

Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.

Working estimate

—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—

A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.

Before an offer

Parcel due diligence

0/8 checked

Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.

Answers from the rulebook for Utah County

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

Utah County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Building or construction work, changes in use of a building or its portions, and work on electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems regulated by adopted codes in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The Utah County Community Development Building Department serves only unincorporated areas of Utah County.
    • Owners or their authorized agents must apply for and obtain the permit before commencing the covered work.
    • Some exemptions may apply; the page directs applicants to contact the Building Official for details.
    • Properties in a city are directed to the city's specified codes, services, and/or website.
    “This department only serves those within the unincorporated areas of Utah County. If your property is in a city please refer to the city's specified codes, services, and/or website. Before commencing any building or construction work, changing the use of a building or its portions, or performing work on electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems regulated by the adopted codes, owners or their authorized agents must apply for and obtain a building permit. Some exemptions may apply—please contact the Building Official for details ([email protected])”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    Owner/builder certification for new residential construction or remodel/addition construction performed at a property in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The county form is for new residential construction or remodel/addition construction.
    • For new residential construction, the owner must be the sole owner of the property and construction project, the project must be the only residential structure the owner has built that year, and the owner must not have built more than three residential structures in the past five years.
    • For new residential and remodel construction, the improvements must be for the owner's personal, non-commercial, non-public use.
    • Work must be performed by the sole owner, a licensed contractor, qualifying employees with workers compensation coverage and required payroll compliance, or a person supervised by the owner who receives no compensation or only token compensation.
    • Retaining an unlicensed contractor or compensating an unlicensed person outside the stated exceptions may result in a Class A misdemeanor and an administrative fine of up to $2,000 for each day of violation.
    • The certification states that it is made under penalty of perjury and must be filed with the city or county building department where the work is performed.

    maximum residential structures built in past five years: <= 3 structures (For new residential construction only; the project must also be the only residential structure built by the owner that year.) · administrative fine: <= 2000 USD per day (Maximum stated for violations involving an unlicensed contractor or improperly compensated unlicensed person.)

    “For New Residential Construction Only: I am the sole owner of the property and construction project at the above-described location; the project described is the only residential structure I have built this year; I have not built more than three residential structures in the past five years. For New Residential and Remodel Construction: The improvements being placed on the property are intended to be used and will be used for my personal, non-commercial, non-public use and the work performed on the project must be performed by the following: • myself as the sole owner of the property; or • a licensed contractor; or • 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 • any other person working under my supervision as Owner/Builder to whom no compensation or only token compensation is paid;”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Building construction standards in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The county code adopts the Utah State Construction Code as adopted by the Utah State Legislature.
    • The county additionally adopts Appendix C Group U—Agricultural Buildings of the currently adopted International Building Code.
    • The county building department page states that it serves only unincorporated areas; properties in cities should follow the city's specified codes, services, or website.
    • The county building page lists the governing codes as State Construction Code (Utah Code Title 15A and amendments), International Building Code 2024, International Residential Code 2021, National Electrical Code 2023, International Plumbing Code 2024, International Mechanical Code 2024, International Energy Conservation Code 2024, International Fuel Gas Code 2024, International Existing Building Code 2024, and ANSI Standard 117.1A.
    • The county page lists frost depth as 30 inches or an engineer's design if deeper, seismic zone as IBC Section 1613, wind load as IBC Section 1609, and snow load subject to Utah Code Title 15A-3-107 exceptions to IBC 1605.1.

    International Building Code: 2024 · International Residential Code: 2021 · National Electrical Code: 2023 · International Plumbing Code: 2024 · International Mechanical Code: 2024 · International Energy Conservation Code: 2024 · International Fuel Gas Code: 2024 · International Existing Building Code: 2024 · frost depth: 30 inches (or engineer's design if deeper)

    “Utah County adopts the Utah State Construction Code [...] as the construction standard to be adhered to within unincorporated Utah County.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Building-permit work in unincorporated Utah County.

    • Inspections must be requested when the work is ready and before it is concealed.
    • The applicant should refer to the required inspections list provided with the permit.
    • Inspection requests should provide up to three days' advance notice.
    • The permit becomes null and void if no inspections are performed for 180 days, or if construction is suspended or abandoned for 180 days.

    advance inspection notice: 3 days (The county page says to provide up to 3 days' advance notice.) · inspection inactivity period causing permit invalidity: 180 days (Applies if no inspections are performed, or construction/work is suspended or abandoned.)

    “Request inspections when the work is ready and before it is concealed.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Use or occupancy of a structure covered by a Utah County building permit in unincorporated Utah County.

    • Use or occupancy is prohibited until the final inspection is approved and the certificate of occupancy is issued.
    • The requirement is stated on the county building permit application and applies to the permitted structure.
    “USE OR OCCUPANCY OF A STRUCTURE IS PROHIBITED UNTIL AFTER FINAL INSPECTION IS APPROVED”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land-use policies and development regulations, including zoning, in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The county source expressly limits this administration to unincorporated Utah County areas.
    • For property within city limits, the source directs users to the local municipality.
    • The zoning map is for general zoning information only; more detailed information should be obtained from Utah County Community Development.
    “Utah County Community Development manages the land use policies and development regulations (including zoning) for unincorporated Utah County areas only.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    County aggregate of zoning administration: Utah County administers zoning in unincorporated areas, while incorporated areas are governed through the applicable local municipality.

    • This is an aggregate countywide conclusion and does not claim that Utah County administers municipal ordinances.
    • The county source directs users within city limits to the local municipality.
    • The county planning department states that it serves only unincorporated areas.
    “If your property is in a city please refer to the city's specified codes, services, and/or website.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Zoning districts and planning zones in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The Utah County Community Development zoning map is for general zoning information; the map directs users to contact Community Development for more detailed information.
    • Areas within incorporated city limits are governed by the applicable local municipality rather than the county map.
    • The zoning layer is updated using annexation and county ordinances.
    “Planning Zones for Utah County. This information is provided through the Utah County Community Development Office. Updates are made using annexation and county ordinances. Topology is used to check for overlaps and gaps.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Zoning lots and zoning parcels in Utah County's RA-5 Residential Agricultural Zone in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The rule applies to the RA-5 zone and does not establish a single countywide minimum for all zones.
    • One-family dwellings, manufactured homes, nursing homes, planned subdivisions, preschools, primary schools, secondary schools, landscape parks, livestock auction yards, roping and riding arenas, and veterinary facilities require at least five acres.
    • Churches and other religious-worship structures require at least two and one-half acres; a church with a parsonage requires at least five acres.
    • Private, private rescue, commercial, and commercial rescue kennels require at least five acres and must be located on the same parcel as the accessory dwelling.
    • Agricultural equipment and agricultural vehicle repair facilities, including the accessory one-family dwelling, require at least five acres.
    • Equine reproduction or rehabilitation facilities require at least five acres, with or without a one-family dwelling.
    • Reception centers require at least ten acres after any required road right-of-way dedication.
    • Other permitted structures and uses have no minimum area requirement except as necessary to satisfy other provisions of the land use ordinance.

    minimum area for listed residential, institutional, school, park, livestock-auction, arena, and veterinary uses: >= 5 acres · minimum area for churches and other religious-worship structures: >= 2.5 acres (Churches with a parsonage require at least 5 acres.) · minimum area for kennels: >= 5 acres (The kennel must be on the same parcel as the dwelling to which it is accessory.) · minimum area for reception centers: >= 10 acres (Measured following any required road right-of-way dedication.)

    “The minimum area of a Zoning Lot or Zoning Parcel within the RA-5 zone shall be as follows:”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Zoning lots in the RR-5 Rural Residential Zone in unincorporated Utah County.
      “Each one-family dwelling, manufactured home, nursing home, preschool, primary school or secondary school, shall be on a lot containing at least five (5) acres of land”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Zoning lots in the CE-1 Critical Environmental Zone in unincorporated Utah County.
      “Each one-family dwelling, a private dog kennel on the same parcel as the dwelling to which it is accessory, planned subdivision, or major campground”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Individual lots within planned subdivisions in the listed Utah County zoning districts in unincorporated Utah County.
      “RA-5 5 acres 250 feet RR-5 20,000 sq ft 100 feet TR-5 20,000 sq ft 100 feet CE-1 50 acres 330 feet CE-2 20 acres 330 feet”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Buildings other than a dwelling in the county's RR-5 zone in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The 15 percent maximum applies to all buildings except a dwelling.
    • Lot building coverage includes all building areas covered by a roof or roof structure.
    • All buildings must meet adopted building, fire, and health codes and requirements.

    maximum lot building coverage: <= 15 percent (Dwelling buildings are excepted from this maximum.)

    “maximum lot building coverage of fifteen percent (15%)”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Recreational-vehicle occupancy in Utah County recreation-vehicle courts and commercial campgrounds in unincorporated Utah County.

    • No recreational vehicle may remain in the court, and no camp user may remain in the campground, for more than 45 days in any calendar year.
    • The facility must satisfy roadway, parking, setback, water, sewage, electrical, and fire-code requirements.
    • A building permit is required before construction; a zoning compliance permit and current business license are required before operation.
    • Mobile homes, construction equipment, and outdoor storage other than licensed vehicles are prohibited in the facility.

    maximum occupancy duration: <= 45 days per calendar year · recreational vehicle space width: >= 10 feet minimum · recreational vehicle space length: >= 40 feet minimum · setback from public street: >= 30 feet minimum

    “No recreation vehicle shall be allowed in the court (nor camp user in the campground) for more than forty-five (45) days in any calendar year.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping and noncommercial campground use in unincorporated Utah County under the County Land Use Ordinance.

    • The ordinance defines camping as a recreational or temporary activity lasting less than 45 days per calendar year.
    • The ordinance excludes parking or storage of tents, trailers, or recreational vehicles for more than 45 days in any calendar year from noncommercial campground use.
    • Applicable zoning, building, health, sewage-disposal, and fire-code requirements still apply.

    camping period: < 45 days per calendar year

    “Camping: A recreational or temporary activity (less than 45 days per calendar year) which involves staying overnight in the open, in a tent, or in a trailer, camper, or other recreational vehicle.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Camping on Utah County-owned, used, or leased property in unincorporated Utah County.
      “No person may camp or establish a campsite on any County property within the limits of an incorporated city or within unincorporated Utah County except: 1. In a Utah County designated campground and in compliance with all rules of that campground and all other applicable laws; or 2. As specifically authorized beforehand in writing by Utah County or its authorized agent and in compliance with all other applicable laws rules of use.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured homes used as housing in unincorporated Utah County.

    • Only manufactured homes complying with current HUD Federal construction and safety standards and bearing a Federal seal are permitted.
    • Permitted circumstances are: placement in an approved large-scale development; temporary caretaker dwelling while a permitted conventional dwelling is being constructed, subject to a bond of at least $5,000 and a maximum duration of the lesser of the conventional dwelling's permit term, completion date, or 365 days, with one possible extension of up to 365 days; caretaker dwelling in the NC-1 or HS-1 Zones when incidental to a permitted principal use; or single-family dwelling use in the RA-5, RR-5, TR-5, CE-1, CE-2, M&G-1, and A-40 Zones when the ordinance's placement requirements are met.
    • The single-family dwelling placement option requires a frost-protected permanent footing, a permanent perimeter wall, a building permit, compliance with HUD or adopted building-code requirements for additions, and compliance with all applicable zoning-district requirements.

    temporary caretaker bond: >= 5000 USD minimum · temporary caretaker maximum duration: <= 365 days (The duration is the lesser of the current conventional-dwelling building-permit term, completion date, or 365 days; one extension of up to 365 additional days may be granted if construction is proceeding diligently.)

    “only manufactured homes which comply with the current HUD Federal construction and safety standards, and bear a Federal seal certifying to that effect, shall be permitted in Utah County, and only according to one of the following four circumstances:”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The Zoning Administrator shall approve an accessory dwelling unit only in a zone where the use is listed as permitted and after receipt of a complete application.
    • A maximum of one accessory dwelling unit is permitted per lot or parcel.
    • The unit must be subordinate to the main dwelling and comply with adopted building, fire, and health codes.
    • The standard maximum floor area is 1,000 square feet for all habitable stories; an exception allows more than 1,000 square feet with a recorded restrictive covenant and moderate-income-housing rental limitation, and a detached unit is additionally limited to 40% of the primary dwelling's floor area up to 1,500 square feet.
    • The unit must meet water and sewage requirements, use the same street address, provide at least two additional off-street parking spaces, be occupied by one family, have an independent entrance, and be on a lot meeting the applicable single-family dwelling area and width requirements or within an approved and recorded large-scale development.

    maximum accessory dwelling units: 1 per lot or parcel · standard maximum floor area: <= 1000 square feet (A recorded restrictive covenant and moderate-income-housing rental limitation may allow more; detached units remain limited to 40% of the primary dwelling floor area up to 1,500 square feet.) · minimum additional parking: >= 2 off-street spaces

    “Upon receipt of a complete application, the Zoning Administrator shall approve an accessory dwelling unit in any zone in which such use is listed as a permitted use, provided that all of the following standards and requirements are met.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater permitting and review administered by the Utah County Health Department within Utah County.

    • The county program operates under Utah Rule R317-004 and related state requirements.
    • The official county page lists applications for new onsite wastewater systems, existing system review, alternative system maintenance, septic tank abandonment, and subdivision feasibility.
    “Onsite Wastewater [...] New Onsite Wastewater Application [...] Existing Onsite Wastewater System Review [...] Alternative System Maintenance Record Submittal [...] Septic Tank Abandonment and Permit Application”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Onsite wastewater systems in Utah County, including system permitting and plan review.

    • The 2026 fee schedule lists a System Permit and Plan Review and states that the fee includes the current state fee.
    • Alternative systems, repair work, holding tanks, septic tank abandonment, and vault privies have separate permit or review entries and may have additional requirements.

    system permit and plan review fee: 1800 USD (includes current state fee) · plan review resubmittal fee: 150 USD · septic tank abandonment permit: 105 USD

    “System Permit and Plan Review | $1,800.00 (includes current state fee)”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Vault privies and other off-grid sanitation options regulated through Utah County Health Department environmental-health rules.

    • Utah County lists a specific Regulation for the Construction, Use and Operation of Vault Privies.
    • The 2026 fee schedule lists a Vault Privy Review/Permit/Inspection, indicating review, permitting, and inspection are required for that option.
    • Other off-grid sanitation methods were not established by the opened official sources.

    vault privy review/permit/inspection fee: 1805 USD

    “Vault Privy Review/Permit/Inspection | $1,805.00”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    A proposed agricultural structure claimed to be exempt from building-permit requirements under the Utah agriculture-use exemption in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The applicant must file an exemption application with Utah County Community Development.
    • Utah County Community Development and the Building Official review the application and determine whether the structure qualifies.
    • Construction without first applying for and obtaining the necessary exception approval is subject to applicable fines under the most current Utah County Government Fee Schedule.
    • The exemption is tied to the agriculture-use exemption in the cited Utah statute.
    “Any person who asserts that a proposed structure is exempt from the building permit requirements pursuant to the agriculture use exemption contained in Section 58-56-4(5), Utah Code Annotated, 1953 as amended, shall file an application for exemption with the Utah County Community Development Department.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Division of land into two or more lots for sale, lease, or development in unincorporated Utah County.

    • Utah County identifies planned subdivisions as the most commonly utilized subdivision type.
    • Large-scale development types must be approved by the County Administrative Land Use Authority and finalized by recording a plat.
    • The preliminary application requires four hard copies and one electronic copy; the final application requires one hard copy and one electronic copy.
    • Before recording, required improvements and the bond agreement must be executed.
    • Detailed requirements are in Chapter 14 of the Utah County Land Use Ordinance; the ordinance PDF also contains planned-subdivision standards in Chapter 6.
    “Each development type must be approved by the County Administrative Land Use Authority and finalized by recording a plat.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveways giving access to county roads in Utah County.

    • Residential structures may have no more than two driveways, each no more than 30 feet wide.
    • Other access purposes may have no more than two driveways, each no more than 50 feet wide.
    • The County Engineer may permit acceleration and deceleration lanes when necessary for safe access.
    • Curb cuts are limited to 30 feet for residential structures and 50 feet for other access, subject to the County Engineer's safety exception.
    • Drainage facilities at each driveway must be engineered for the 25-year storm.
    • Driveways must cross ditches through standard-design pipes or culverts; no new open ditch is allowed within dedicated rights-of-way, and ditch companies must approve pipes in their ditches.
    • Access points must generally be separated by 600 feet on arterials, 200 feet on collectors, 50 feet on local roads, and 10 feet in subdivisions, except every property may have at least one access point per parcel.
    • Driveways must meet county roads at an 80-to-90-degree angle, subject to stated divided-road and safety exceptions.
    • The driveway grade may not exceed 5 percent for the 10 feet closest to the road right-of-way line.
    • Road frontage and access roads must be paved with asphalt, concrete, or other bound-together hard-surface material, not gravel or dirt.

    maximum residential driveway count: <= 2 driveways · maximum residential driveway width: <= 30 feet · maximum nonresidential driveway count: <= 2 driveways · maximum nonresidential driveway width: <= 50 feet · minimum driveway angle: >= 80 degrees (Maximum angle is 90 degrees; stated exceptions apply.) · maximum driveway grade near right-of-way: <= 5 percent (Applies to the 10 feet closest to the road right-of-way line.)

    “No more than two (2) driveways, each measuring thirty (30) feet or less in width, shall be permitted to give access for any residential structure. No more than two (2) driveways, each measuring fifty (50) feet or less in width, shall be permitted for any other purpose of access, except that the County Engineer may permit acceleration and deceleration lanes to join the county road when necessary to provide safe access.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New access to, or an increase in the extent or degree of access to, a Utah County road in unincorporated Utah County.
      “Upon the effective date of this Article, no person or vehicle shall gain access de novo, or increase the extent and degree of access, to a Utah County road except by a driveway or other means of access for which an access permit has been first issued by the County Engineer in accord with the terms of this Article.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Any man-made development, including construction, grading, excavation, or other land alterations, within a designated floodplain in unincorporated Utah County.

    • A Utah County Floodplain Development Permit is required before work starts.
    • The permit applies within designated floodplains in unincorporated Utah County.
    • Activities must comply with the Utah Flood Protection In Special Flood Hazard Areas Ordinance and FEMA regulations.
    • Applicants must submit detailed plans showing the project's scope, location, and elevation.
    • The page states that the permit protects eligibility for the National Flood Insurance Program.
    “A Utah County Floodplain Development Permit is required for any man-made development—including construction, grading, excavation, or other land alterations—within a designated floodplain in unincorporated Utah County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Any man-made development within a designated floodplain in unincorporated Utah County, including construction, grading, excavation, or other land alterations.
      “A Utah County Floodplain Development Permit is required for any man-made development—including construction, grading, excavation, or other land alterations—within a designated floodplain in unincorporated Utah County.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Building permit applications in unincorporated Utah County.

    • The applicant must complete a Building Permit Application and attach the required plans and documents.
    • Applications may be submitted in person or electronically following the applicable submittal instructions.
    • The County reviews the application and supporting documents and may request additional information, submittals, or corrections.
    • After approval, the applicant must sign necessary documents, pay required fees, and obtain the permit.
    • The page states that some building-permit exemptions may apply and directs applicants to the Building Official for details.
    • Inspection requests must be made when work is ready and before it is concealed, with up to three days' advance notice.
    “Complete a Building Permit Application and attach the required plans and documents (as seen in the submittal requirements above). You can submit your application to the building department in person or electronically, following the instructions provided in the submittal requirements. The County undertakes a review process of the submitted permit application and supporting documents. If any additional information or corrections are needed, the County will notify the applicant and request additional submittals and/or corrections. Upon approval, the applicant will be invited to visit the County's Building Division to sign necessary documents, pay any required fees, and to obtain the requested permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Construction, alteration, or expansion of structures in unincorporated Utah County.
      “A building permit is required before constructing, altering, or expanding any structure to ensure compliance with safety codes and county regulations. Approval must be obtained through Utah County Community Development before any building work begins.”

Utah rules that apply here

  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Annual inspections for operating permits associated with large underground wastewater disposal systems; the source does not establish a universal annual inspection requirement for every residential septic system.

    • The Utah Department of Environmental Quality page specifically ties annual inspections to operating permits.
    • Inspection personnel are identified as Onsite Professional Certification Level 2 and/or Level 3 individuals who requested placement on the maintenance-specialist list.

    inspection frequency: annual (for these operating permits)

    “Operating Permits for Large Underground Wastewater Disposal Systems [...] Individuals who have Onsite Professional Certification Level 2 and/or Level 3 who have requested that their name be put on this list to be called on to perform the annual inspections for these operating permits.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Water production wells, including domestic wells, and regulated non-production wells in Utah County and elsewhere in Utah.

    • A valid water right must exist before constructing a shallow water well and beneficially using groundwater.
    • A Start Card issued after water-right approval is essentially the permit to construct the well.
    • Regulated wells must be constructed by a licensed well driller; shallow wells may also be constructed by a licensed shallow water well constructor.
    • Non-production wells greater than 30 feet are regulated by the State Engineer.

    non-production well depth threshold: > 30 feet (non-production wells greater than 30 feet are regulated)

    “A shallow water well owner must have a valid water right to beneficially use groundwater from a shallow water well prior to well construction. [...] A Start Card is issued upon approval of the water right, which is essentially the permit to construct the well.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Wastewater drainage for dwellings, buildings, and premises covered by Utah's onsite wastewater rule.

    • Connection to a public sewer is required when available and practicable.
    • If public sewer is unavailable or impracticable, connection must be made to an adequate onsite wastewater system or another wastewater system acceptable under the listed Utah rules.
    • When a dwelling served by an onsite wastewater system connects to a public sewer, the septic tank must be abandoned and disconnected or bypassed unless otherwise approved by the regulatory authority.
    “shall have a connection to a public sewer”
  • 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:”
    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:”
  • 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”
  • 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.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of structures described as tiny homes in unincorporated Utah County.
  • Short-term rentals — Short-term rental use in unincorporated Utah County.
  • Permit fees — Building permit fees for construction in unincorporated Utah County.

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.

Water rights & wells in Utah County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Utah’s water agency.

Closed to new supply

New water supply here generally requires a permit, an offset, or buying an existing right — a household well is not automatic.

Household wellPermit required — restricted

Utah has NO exempt domestic well — you must own a water right to drill any well, including a household well. In an open area you file a new appropriation, but because much of Utah is closed to new appropriation a newcomer typically must PURCHASE an existing water right and file a change application to move it to the new well.

Limit: ~0.45 acre-ft/yr indoor domestic (typical allocation); no statutory exempt-well quantity

Utah Division of Water Rights — FAQ ↗
  • Groundwater Management Plan valleys (Cache, Tooele, Salt Lake, Utah, Juab, Pahvant, Snyderville, Sand Hollow, Weber Delta)majority of county

    Populated valleys managed under groundwater management plans that protect existing rights and cap withdrawals; new groundwater use requires acquiring and changing existing water rights rather than new appropriation.

    Utah Division of Water Rights — Groundwater Management Plans ↗
  • Cedar Valley (Utah County) Groundwater Management Planpartial of county

    Cedar Valley / Northern Utah Valley GWMP (adopted 2014); all water fully appropriated and closed to new appropriations. Distinct from Cedar City Valley (Iron County). New supply requires buying and changing existing rights.

    Utah Division of Water Rights — Groundwater Management Plans ↗
  • Goshen Valley Groundwater Management Planlocalized of county

    Goshen Valley (south end of Utah Lake) GWMP; surface and groundwater fully appropriated and closed to new appropriations, with documented declines.

    Utah Division of Water Rights — Groundwater Management Plans ↗

Prior-appropriation state (first in time, first in right). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Utah state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Utah County, Utah

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

Utah County scores 44/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: a weaker property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: about 112,962 people within 15 miles and more administrative friction around building and land use.

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

Utah County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Utah County Health Department - Environmental Health (Onsite Wastewater program). 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.

How much does land cost in Utah County, Utah?

Land in Utah County runs about $15,104 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Utah County?

Utah County gets about 19.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 33% of years. On water rights, Utah County lies in the Groundwater Management Plan valleys (Cache, Tooele, Salt Lake, Utah, Juab, Pahvant, Snyderville, Sand Hollow, Weber Delta) — Populated valleys managed under groundwater management plans that protect existing rights and cap withdrawals; new groundwater use requires acquiring and changing existing water rights rather than new appropriation..

How remote is Utah County?

A typical private-land location has about 112,962 people within 15 miles and 2,978,296 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Utah County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.

How Utah compares in Utah

Compare side-by-side →See all 29 Utah counties ranked →