Do I Need a Permit?
Plain-English answers to the most common permit questions Utah homeowners ask. Pick your project below.
Window Replacement
Usually no — but yes if you change the size of the opening.
Fence
Yes — most Utah cities require a fence permit for new construction.
Deck
Yes — unless it's a small ground-level platform under 200 sq ft.
Water Heater
Yes — even for a like-for-like replacement.
Basement Finish
Yes — any framing, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work requires a permit.
Solar Panels
Yes — both a building and electrical permit are required.
Roof Replacement
Yes — all roof replacements and re-roofing projects require a permit.
Hot Tub
Yes — at minimum an electrical permit for the 240V circuit.
Shed
Under 200 sq ft and under 10 feet tall? Usually no. Bigger? Yes.
Furnace Replacement
Yes — even a like-for-like furnace swap requires a mechanical permit.
EV Charger
Level 2 (240V) chargers yes. Level 1 (120V plug-in) no.
Patio Cover / Pergola
Solid roof covers yes. Open-lattice pergolas may be exempt.
Home Business
Yes — most Utah cities require a home occupation permit.
ADU / In-Law Suite
Yes — Utah state law requires most cities to allow internal ADUs.
Concrete / Driveway
Only if it connects to the street, modifies drainage, or is a structural element.