Utah ADU Builder
How an ADU project works
The Utah ADU build process
A clear path from “can I?” to “we’re living in it.” Timelines below are illustrative planning ranges. Confirm the scope and schedule with your partner.
From planning questions to a partner conversation
Use our tools to organize your questions, then discuss the scope with an independent design or construction partner. Partners are responsible for their own services and contracts.
Prefer the scoring deep-dive? See how eligibility scoring works. Prefer a checklist? See before you build.
Internal total
4–7 mo
Kickoff → final (typical)
Detached total
6–10 mo
Kickoff → final (typical)
Design package
2–6 wk
Stock vs custom engineering
Permit window
3–14 wk
City + path dependent
Assumption · Illustrative Wasatch Front planning bands — not a contract schedule. HOA negotiations, utility upgrades, and hillside engineering can extend any phase.
Where the calendar goes
Share of calendar · illustrative detached project
Evaluate
~1–2 wk
Design
~3–5 wk
Permit
~6–12 wk
Build
~12–20 wk
Final
~1–2 wk
Assumption · Widths show relative time weight for a mid-complexity detached casita, not guaranteed week counts. Internal conversions usually compress the build segment.
Six phases, end to end
- 1
Evaluate the property
Week 0–1
Address map, lot signals, internal vs detached pathway, and city context. Edge cases (HOA, hillside, septic, historic overlay) get flagged before design spend.
- 2
Choose a path & budget
Week 1–2
Internal conversion, garage conversion, or new detached unit — each has different cost, timeline, and permit load. Align finish level and a working budget band.
- 3
Design & engineering
Week 2–6
Floor plans, elevations, structural notes, and energy/code packages tailored to your city. Stock packages move faster; steep-slope sites add engineering time.
- 4
Permitting & approvals
Week 4–12
Building permit, zoning clearances, and any owner-occupancy or parking documentation. City backlog and review cycles drive the calendar more than drawing complexity alone.
- 5
Build & inspections
Week 8–24
Site work (if detached), framing, MEPs, insulation, finishes, and city inspections at each milestone. Weather and long-lead materials can stretch the on-site window.
- 6
Final & handoff
Closeout
Certificate of occupancy / final sign-off where required, walkthrough, and warranty orientation — a livable unit for family use or long-term rental.
On-site build duration · illustrative
Internal / conversion
~8–16 weeks
New detached unit
~12–24 weeks
Assumption · Once permitted. Weather, inspections, and material lead times move these ranges.
Same lot, three pathways
Internal suites reuse the primary shell; garage conversions trade parking for living space; detached casitas need setbacks, utilities, and often a longer permit cycle.
Ready to place your lot on the timeline?
Start with the property map or book a free review — we’ll tell you which phase will drive your calendar.
What happens after final
You leave with a livable unit ready for family use or long-term rental (commonly 30+ day stays where ADU rules apply). Warranty orientation covers the installed systems; city conditions of approval stay on the recorded documents.
Next step: check your address, run a cost estimate, or book a property review. Pair with the cost guide and financing overview.