Do I Need a Permit to Pour Concrete in Utah?
Quick Answer
Only if it connects to the street, modifies drainage, or is a structural element.
Utah-specific rules
Adopted code: 2021 IRC, adopted statewide under Utah Code § 15A-2-103 (in force through June 30, 2026; the IRC edition does not change on July 1, 2026). Footings, foundations, and structural flatwork are governed by the IRC's foundation provisions (Chapter 4), and Utah's statewide amendments add an exception permitting vertical foundation steel to be placed while concrete is still plastic — foundation and footing work is generally permit-triggering under the adopted code even where surface flatwork like a driveway or walkway may not be.
Sources: Utah State Construction and Fire Codes Act (Title 15A)
When You Don't Need a Permit
Simple concrete flatwork on your own property — a backyard patio, a walkway, or a small pad — typically does not require a building permit in most cities, as long as it doesn't alter drainage patterns or connect to the public right-of-way.
When You Do Need a Permit
A permit is required for: new driveways or driveway widenings (curb cut modification), sidewalk work in the public right-of-way, any concrete that changes drainage patterns, and structural concrete (retaining walls, foundations). Driveway permits may also require a refundable right-of-way bond ($500-$2,000).
Drainage Is Key
The biggest issue with concrete work isn't the concrete itself — it's drainage. Most cities prohibit directing water runoff onto neighboring properties. If your new concrete changes how water flows on your lot, you may need a drainage plan even for otherwise exempt work.
ADA at the Sidewalk
If your driveway crosses a public sidewalk, the approach must meet ADA slope requirements. This is enforced during the permit process and is a common reason driveway permits are revised.
Bottom Line
Backyard patio? Probably no permit. Driveway or anything touching the street? Yes. Always check drainage impact.
Permit fees by city in Utah
Verified from each city’s published fee schedule. Where a city has no separate fee listed for this project, open the city page for the current requirements and amount.
| City | Permit fee | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Bountiful | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Draper | $500.00Verified | Retaining Wall Permit → |
| Eagle Mountain | Valuation-based per Eagle Mountain Consolidated Fee Schedule, Section 13.1Verified | Retaining Wall Permit → |
| Herriman | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Layton | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Lehi | $250Verified | Retaining Wall Permit → |
| Logan | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Millcreek | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Ogden | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Provo | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Riverton | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Salt Lake City | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| South Jordan | $610Verified | Retaining Wall Permit → |
| Spanish Fork | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| St. George | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Taylorsville | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Unincorporated Cache County | $250Verified | Retaining Wall Permit → |
| Unincorporated Davis County | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Unincorporated Salt Lake County | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Unincorporated Utah County | $101.00Verified | Grading & Excavation Permit → |
| Unincorporated Washington County | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| Unincorporated Weber County | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| West Jordan | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |
| West Valley City | Permitted under the general building permit — see city page | Residential Building Permit → |