Utah ADU laws are giving homeowners new ways to make better use of their properties, and it’s no surprise they’re gaining popularity. With the obvious rise in housing costs and the need for more flexible living options, ADUs offer a real solution. Whether you’re looking to create rental income, house family members, or add extra space for visitors, these units are a great choice to upgrade your living situation.
What is an ADU?
You may have heard of an ADU but didn’t really know what it was. An ADU, or accessory dwelling unit, is a smaller living space on the same property as a main house. Some common types include basement apartments, backyard cottages, or tiny detached homes. ADUs are perfect for creating rental income or providing housing for family members like aging parents or adult kids.
What are the Regulations for Height and Size?
● Height Restrictions: Many cities limit the height of ADUs, especially detached units. For example, they might need to be single-story or shorter than the main house. This ensures that ADUs don’t overshadow neighboring properties or disrupt the neighborhood’s aesthetic.
● Size Limits: ADUs typically have maximum size restrictions, often based on a percentage of the main home or a set square footage cap, such as 1000 square feet in Utah. These limits keep ADUs proportionate to the primary residence and the lot size.
● Setbacks: Setback rules determine how far the ADU must be from property lines, streets, or neighboring structures. These requirements help maintain privacy and proper spacing between buildings.
● Lot Coverage: Some areas have rules about how much of a property can be covered by structures. ADUs must fit within these limits to leave adequate open space.
● Design Standards: Many cities require ADUs to match the style of the primary house. This includes using similar materials, colors, and architectural features to maintain neighborhood consistency.
Are There Utah ADU Grants?
If you’re wondering whether Utah ADU grants are available to help fund your project, the answer is yes—but a lot depends on where you live.
These grants are designed to encourage affordable housing and can help cover some of the costs of building or renovating an accessory dwelling unit. It’s a great way to make adding an ADU more manageable if you’re worried about the price tag.
That said, most grants come with strings attached. For example, you might need to rent the unit at an affordable rate for a few years or use it for family housing. Some programs are geared toward specific groups, like moderate-income homeowners or areas where housing is in short supply. Understanding these details upfront is key to deciding if a grant is the right fit for your ADU plans.
Many cities, counties, and organizations in Utah offer these programs to encourage housing options like ADUs. These grants often include specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so you’ll want to review all the details carefully before applying.
Are the Laws State, County, or City Based?
When it comes to ADU laws in Utah, the rules aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re primarily set at the city and county levels, not by the state. While Utah encourages cities to allow ADUs as a way to address housing needs, it’s up to local governments to create specific regulations. This means the requirements for ADUs can vary widely depending on where you live. For example, one city might allow detached backyard cottages in residential zones, while another might only permit basement apartments. Counties often regulate ADUs in rural areas, with different rules for things like lot size or utility hookups.
Utah ADU Requirements
● Owner Occupancy Stipulations Covenant Agreements
One of the main requirements for ADUs in Utah is the owner occupancy rule. This means the property owner must live on-site for at least six months of the year, either in the primary home or the ADU itself. This rule helps maintain accountability and ensures the property is well-managed. To solidify this commitment, owners are also required to sign a legal agreement, known as an owner occupancy covenant, which formally states their agreement to these terms.
● Utah ADU Zoning Laws
Utah ADU zoning laws play a big part in shaping how and where these units can be built. Each city or county has specific rules that outline what’s allowed, ensuring ADUs fit seamlessly into the surrounding neighborhoods. These zoning regulations are designed to preserve the character of residential areas while also making space for much-needed housing options. By following these guidelines, homeowners can not only add value to their property but also help address Utah’s growing demand for affordable housing in a way that benefits their communities.
● ADU Eligibility
In Utah, whether a property can have an ADU depends on its zoning designation, which varies by community. Some common zones that allow ADUs include residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, downtown areas, and locations near transit hubs. Each zone comes with its own set of rules, such as lot size and building standards, to make sure ADUs fit in smoothly with the surrounding area. These requirements help keep neighborhoods well-planned and maintain a balance between growth and community character.
● Safety Regulations and Codes for ADUs in Utah
Building an ADU in Utah involves more than just adding extra space—it requires meeting specific utility, fire code, and safety standards. Homeowners need to make certain the ADU is properly connected to utilities in line with local infrastructure requirements. Before construction begins, the project must also comply with fire codes and building safety regulations.
ADU Laws and Regulations in Utah
● Parking Requirements: Parking is a big consideration for ADUs. Many cities require off-street parking for ADU tenants, especially in areas where street parking is already hard to come by. Some cities allow flexibility, like shared parking spaces or reduced requirements if the ADU is near public transit.
● Residential Density: Zoning laws often limit how many ADUs can be built within a neighborhood or on a specific property. This helps maintain the balance of housing types and prevents overcrowding.
● Exterior Design Rules: To maintain the look and feel of neighborhoods, many cities require ADUs to match the exterior design of the primary home. This might include similar materials, colors, rooflines, or window styles. These rules help ensure ADUs blend well with the existing community.
Types of ADUs in Utah
While there are several different types of ADUs in Utah, they tend to fit under five basic categories. Here are five common types to consider:
1. Internal Units: These are built within an existing single-family home, like converting a basement into a separate apartment. Examples include a basement dwelling with its own entrance or a reconfigured attic space. These units are a popular option for homeowners wanting to maximize their home’s existing layout.
2. Detached Accessory Buildings: This style of ADU stands alone on the property, separate from the main house. A backyard cottage or a tiny house on the property is a great example. These units offer more privacy and flexibility for renters or family members.
3. Attached Additions: These are built as extensions of the main house, often sharing a wall but with a separate entrance. A side addition that creates a one-bedroom living space is a good example. These units blend with the home while still feeling distinct.
4. Garage Conversions: Converting a garage into an ADU is another option, turning an underused space into a functional living area. For example, a two-car garage could become a compact apartment with a kitchenette and bathroom.
5. Units in New Construction: If you’re building a new home, incorporating an ADU into the design is a smart way to plan ahead. This could include a detached unit above a detached garage or a private suite on the property.
ADU Permitting Process in Utah
Starting an ADU project in Utah means navigating the permitting process, which includes your initial application, conditional use permits, and building permits. Each one of these steps ensures your project meets local guidelines and stays on track. Understanding these requirements upfront will no doubt make the process much smoother.
The first step is submitting an application with detailed information about your ADU plans. This includes site plans, floor plans, and documents that show your project complies with zoning laws. Some cities provide an ADU Handbook to help guide you through eligibility and what’s required to get started.
In some cases, a conditional use permit may be needed, depending on your property’s zoning. Once the application and any necessary permits are approved, you’ll move on to obtaining a building permit. This final step allows construction to begin and confirms your ADU will meet safety and building codes.
Utah ADU Laws Conclusion
ADUs offer Utah homeowners a flexible way to enhance their properties, whether by creating extra living space, generating rental income, or addressing housing needs. With the variety of options available and a range of local regulations to navigate, planning an ADU requires careful thought and attention to detail.
At S&R Masonry, while we don’t handle the construction of ADUs, we specialize in adding the perfect finishing touch. Our expert brick and stonework can seamlessly match your main home, tying the entire property together with a polished, cohesive look. Let us help bring your vision to life with craftsmanship that enhances both style and value.