Inside Salt Lake City’s Exciting New ADU Regulations
Residents of Salt Lake City are likely familiar with the evolving legal landscape concerning Accessory Dwelling Units. Over the past year, these legislative modifications were proposed, subsequently subjected to a city council vote, and successfully ratified this past April. It is essential to recognize that these updated regulations are now active. Our team is elated to see Salt Lake City’s proactive stride in addressing housing challenges and streamlining property owners’ capacity to expand housing options, often leading to supplementary income avenues.
The changes have now been successfully integrated into the system. Despite the fact that they have yet to be formally published on the city’s official website, we have proactively engaged with our esteemed municipal associates to procure the recently revised Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) handbook, along with other indispensable insights pertaining to the revised legislative framework. We are enthusiastic about the prospect of disseminating this valuable information to a wider audience.
The proposed revisions to Salt Lake City’s ADU regulations introduce significant changes to promote housing adaptability. While only one ADU is allowed per property, exceptions apply, requiring homeowners to remain on-site, except for special circumstances. Internal ADUs face no maximum size, diverging from the previous 50% cap based on the principal structure’s square footage. Detached units, on the other hand, are now limited to 1,000 square feet, allowing for more spacious living. Adjustments in height regulations for detached ADUs accommodate structures up to 24 feet tall, with greater setbacks, or 17 feet tall if located closer to corner side lot lines. These changes extend ADU permission to properties with nonresidential or multi-family use, breaking free from the single-family dwelling constraint. The conditional use requirement for detached ADUs in single-family residential zones is being eliminated, with size and location adherence retained. Height limitations have also been revised, mirroring those of accessory buildings like garages. Setbacks are now linked to ADU height, enhancing the code’s usability. The size limit adjustment replaces the former 50% footprint cap with a fixed 720 square feet for ADUs, potentially increased to 1,000 square feet based on the Planning Commission’s favorable suggestion. Moreover, the adjustments harmonize ADU regulations with Utah state codes and ban short-term rentals on properties with ADUs, underscoring the city’s housing goals.
We are highly enthusiastic about these revisions due to our direct experience of their positive impact. Over the last five or so years, the Bay Area has witnessed the significant ease brought about by local and state regulations, resulting in a surge of permitted and constructed ADUs. These units have seamlessly integrated into backyards, underutilized garages, and new residential developments.
Creates Cool has had the privilege of contributing to over 40 ADU projects within the past few years, and personally, I’ve personally been engaged in the creation of more than 50 ADUs before founding our company. This exposure has equipped us with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse array of ADU designs.
Having already engaged in various projects, ranging from renovations in Sugar House to new constructions in 9th and 9th, and scattered endeavors across the larger region, we are now eagerly anticipating a multitude of ADU projects in the area. Drawing from our years of experience, we’re enthusiastic about extending our efficient and distinctive ADU design and permitting approach to Salt Lake City. We’ve dedicated extensive time refining processes and templates to deliver impeccably smooth and precise ADU drawings for both our clients and local regulatory bodies. Our ongoing feedback loop incorporates insights from clients regarding visuals and comprehension of plans, city agencies seeking specific details, and on-site contractors offering insights for optimal construction practices. While some of these lessons are specific to California’s distinct legal framework, many can be readily applied to ensure the excellence of drawings and projects in Salt Lake City.
For those contemplating the possibility of constructing an ADU — whether within their property, home, or adjacent to their business — we encourage you to connect with us. Collaborating with our team ensures a swift and effective process tailored precisely to your needs. We provide transparent and informed guidance on codes and limitations, drawing from previous client preferences and concerns. Our services align with your timeline and budget, offering assistance in contractor selection and construction oversight as desired. In essence, our commitment is to shape this process and project to meet your exact aspirations. Ultimately, what holds paramount significance is your vision and the successful realization of your project.
