Shed Permit Requirements in Salt Lake City, UT
Utah adopted 2021 IRC statewide with state amendments.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified March 29, 2026 · How we research →
When you don’t need a Shed permit in Salt Lake City
Detached accessory structures (sheds) 200 sq ft or less and one story are generally exempt from a building permit per IRC R105.2.
When you need a Shed permit in Salt Lake City
Sheds over 200 sq ft require a building permit.
Sheds with electrical wiring require an electrical permit regardless of size.
What Makes Salt Lake City Different
Here's how Salt Lake City's shed rules stack up against the standard IRC baseline that most of the country follows.
Stricter Than the IRC
Sheds over 200 sq ft require a building permit.
Sheds with electrical wiring require an electrical permit regardless of size.
More Lenient Than the IRC
Salt Lake City sets the square footage threshold at 200 sq ft, the IRC standard is 120 sq ft. That gives you more room before a permit kicks in.
Shed Permit Costs: Salt Lake City vs. Nearby
Salt Lake City's fees are right in line with the Utah average, $50 – $300 versus $50 – $168 statewide.
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Salt Lake City | $50 – $300 |
| West Valley City | $42 – $255 |
| West Jordan | $37 – $187 |
| Provo | $40 – $240 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all Salt Lake City permit costs →
Zoning & HOA Considerations
Sheds may be subject to zoning setback requirements and lot coverage limits. Placement near property lines or in front yards may require zoning approval.
If you live in an HOA community: many HOAs restrict or prohibit outbuildings. Check your CC&Rs for rules on shed size, placement, materials, and appearance before purchasing or building.
Estimated Project Timeline in Salt Lake City
Here's a typical timeline for a shed project in Salt Lake City, UT:
Timeline is based on Salt Lake City's typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Shed projects in Salt Lake City, UT range from $50 – $300. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Shed projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit in Salt Lake City can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Typical approval time for Shed permits in Salt Lake City is about 2 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
If you live in an HOA community, you may need architectural review approval in addition to a building permit. HOA rules and city building codes are separate, you may need to satisfy both. Review your CC&Rs and submit to your HOA's architectural review committee before starting work.
Learn More About Shed Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Shed Guide →