Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Sandy, Utah
Required for construction of a secondary dwelling unit on a residential property in Sandy, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit (valuation < $50,000) | $553 | — |
| ADU Permit (valuation $50,000-$100,000) | $1,524 | — |
| ADU Permit (valuation $100,000-$250,000) | $2,042 | — |
| ADU Permit (valuation $250,000-$500,000) | $2,930 | — |
| ADU Permit (valuation > $500,000) | $3,753+ | — |
Review timeline
~14–30 business days
Typical estimate — confirm current times with the Sandy 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 Sandy may have additional local rules.
- Basement apartments in Sandy must have egress windows in every bedroom (5.7 sq ft minimum opening).
- ADU impact fees in Utah are often reduced or waived — ask Sandy about current fee schedules.
- A rental business license from Sandy is typically required before renting an ADU.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I build an ADU in Sandy?
- Most likely yes. Utah state law (HB 82) requires cities to allow internal ADUs. Sandy may also allow detached ADUs depending on zoning. Contact Sandy planning department to confirm your property qualifies.
- How much does an ADU permit cost in Sandy?
- ADU permit fees in Sandy follow the city fee schedule: ADU Permit (valuation < $50,000) — $553; ADU Permit (valuation $50,000-$100,000) — $1,524; ADU Permit (valuation $100,000-$250,000) — $2,042; ADU Permit (valuation $250,000-$500,000) — $2,930; ADU Permit (valuation > $500,000) — $3,753+. 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.
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 Sandy building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.
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