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.