Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Bountiful, Utah
Required for construction of a secondary dwelling unit on a residential property in Bountiful, including basement apartments, detached cottages, and garage conversions.
Verified 2026-06-27 · Source
When you need this permit
- Property zoned for ADU use (check {city} zoning map)
- Owner-occupancy of primary or accessory unit (varies by city)
- Maximum size limits (typically 50-65% of primary dwelling or 1,000 sq ft)
- Adequate parking (typically one additional off-street space)
- Separate entrance from primary dwelling
Required documents
- Req
Building Plans
Full construction drawings including floor plan, elevations, and sections
- Req
Site Plan
Property layout showing both units, setbacks, parking, and access
- Req
Zoning Compliance Letter
Verification that the property qualifies for an ADU under {city} zoning code
- Req
Fire Separation Details
1-hour fire separation between units if attached/internal
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit | Valuation-based per current ICC data | — |
| Plan Review (Residential SFD) | 29% of permit fee | — |
| South Davis Metro Fire Impact Fee | $644 per unit | — |
| State Surcharge | 1% of permit fee | — |
Review timeline
~14–30 business days
Typical estimate — confirm current times with the Bountiful building department
Inspection process
- 1
Foundation
Footings, forms, rebar — before concrete pour
- 2
Framing
Structure, fire separation, egress windows
- 3
MEP Rough-In
Mechanical, electrical, plumbing rough-ins before walls closed
- 4
Insulation
Insulation and vapor barrier before drywall
- 5
Final
All work complete, smoke/CO detectors, address posted, ready for occupancy
Tips
- Utah HB 82 (2021) requires most cities to allow at least internal ADUs — but Bountiful may have additional local rules.
- Basement apartments in Bountiful must have egress windows in every bedroom (5.7 sq ft minimum opening).
- ADU impact fees in Utah are often reduced or waived — ask Bountiful about current fee schedules.
- A rental business license from Bountiful is typically required before renting an ADU.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I build an ADU in Bountiful?
- Most likely yes. Utah state law (HB 82) requires cities to allow internal ADUs. Bountiful may also allow detached ADUs depending on zoning. Contact Bountiful planning department to confirm your property qualifies.
- How much does an ADU permit cost in Bountiful?
- ADU permit fees in Bountiful follow the city fee schedule: Building Permit — Valuation-based per current ICC data; Plan Review (Residential SFD) — 29% of permit fee; South Davis Metro Fire Impact Fee — $644 per unit; State Surcharge — 1% of permit fee. Under Utah law, impact fees for internal or attached ADUs may be reduced or waived — confirm with the building department.
Sources & verification
Key facts verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-06-27.
- Bountiful City Building Department — official building department
- Bountiful City Consolidated Fee Schedule (Ord. 2023-01)
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Bountiful building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.
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