Utah ADU questions, answered

Often yes for an internal unit in many single-family zones under statewide rules, with local conditions. Detached units depend on city class, lot size, and timing around S.B. 284 (statewide detached floor for qualifying lots begins October 1, 2026). Check your address on the map, then verify with the city.

ADU is the legal umbrella. Granny flat usually means a secondary home for family or aging-in-place (internal or detached). Casita usually means a detached backyard cottage. Cities regulate the ADU type — marketing words still need the right permit path.

Planning bands we publish: internal suites often roughly $55k–$145k; garage paths roughly $70k–$175k; new detached often roughly $95k–$250k+, before unusual site work. Use the estimator for a scoped band.

Assumption: many internal projects finish in about 4–7 months; many detached projects in about 6–10 months from kickoff, including design and permits. City backlog and custom engineering can extend that.

Common patterns are HELOC, cash-out refinance, renovation-style loans, or cash. We do not lend; see the financing guide and talk to your lender with a clear scope.

City approval does not override CC&Rs. Assumption: many HOAs restrict exterior buildings, rentals, or parking — read governing documents early and budget time for architectural review.

Often ADU rules emphasize longer stays (commonly 30+ days). City STR programs are separate. Do not assume Airbnb use is allowed because an ADU permit exists.

Yes — Utah ADU Builder evaluates the lot, designs to a buildable package, and constructs. Start with the map, estimate, or a property review.

It creates a statewide detached-ADU floor for specified municipalities on qualifying single-family lots (commonly discussed around 11,000+ sq ft), operative October 1, 2026. Local setbacks, height, and design standards still apply. Smaller lots may still have local detached paths.

Many Utah ADU pathways expect owner-occupancy in the primary home or the ADU, sometimes with a recorded declaration. Confirm with your city before planning a fully absentee rental.