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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Monticello
Building permits are required for all new construction, before moving a trailer or pre-built home onto a lot, and for any addition, remodeling, or demolition.
- Exempt One-story detached accessory structures (tool sheds, storage sheds, playhouses and similar) with floor area of 120 square feet or less
- Exempt Fences not more than 7 feet in height
- Exempt Retaining walls not more than 4 feet in height measured from bottom of footing to top of wall, unless supporting a surcharge
- Exempt Ordinary repair work not altering structural, fire, life-safety, or egress conditions
- Exempt Portable storage containers require a separate permit application
Note: Monticello does not publish a separate expanded exemption list on its website. Contact the Building Official to confirm whether specific project types require a permit before proceeding.
- Complete scaled plans
- Legal property description
- County tax parcel number
- Completed and signed permit application
- Utah contractor DOPL license copies for all contractors and subcontractors
- Proof of property ownership or notarized owner authorization
- Recommended: written bids, contracts, and liability insurance copies
- Building code
- Monticello follows the Utah State Construction Code under Title 15A, which incorporates the 2021 IBC, 2021 IRC, 2021 IMC, 2021 IPC, 2021 IECC, and NEC. Monticello has not posted separate local amendments; statewide codes apply. City zoning and building parameters are set out in Monticello City Code Title 10.
- Permit validity
- Follows Utah statewide default of 180-day inspection intervals. Confirm with Building Official.
- Owner-builder
- Single-family residential property owners may serve as their own contractor if work is performed by themselves, by licensed contractors, or by employees with proper worker's compensation coverage. An Owner/Builder Certification and Agreement form is required and must be submitted before construction begins. Violations of owner-builder requirements may result in Class A misdemeanor charges and fines up to $2,000 per day.
- Contractor requirements
- All commercial project work must be performed by licensed contractors. For residential projects, same Utah DOPL licensing rules apply unless the owner-builder exception is properly invoked.
Application process
Typical processing: Not publicly posted. Contact Megan Gallegos for current review times.
- 01 Confirm the property is within Monticello City limits and not in unincorporated county territory.
- 02 Confirm property is deeded in the applicant's name and recorded in the San Juan County Recorder's Office, or obtain a notarized statement from the legal property owner authorizing the project.
- 03 Register for or log into the iWorQ citizen portal.
- 04 Complete the building permit application and upload a complete set of plans drawn to scale.
- 05 For single-family residences: plans generally do not require an architect or engineer stamp unless the Building Official determines the scope warrants it. For commercial projects: licensed architect or engineer plans are expected.
- 06 Provide property legal description and county tax parcel number.
- 07 List all contractors and subcontractors with Utah DOPL license copies, current contact information, and expiration dates. For single-family residential owner-builder projects, submit the Owner/Builder Certification and Agreement form.
- 08 Submit the application. Incomplete applications will be returned.
- 09 Building Official reviews plans and issues comments or approval.
- 10 Pay fees per the Monticello Consolidated Fee Schedule upon permit approval.
- 11 Permit is issued. Schedule inspections by phone.
- 12 Complete all required inspections and receive a final inspection to close the permit.
Typical processing time: Not publicly posted. Contact Megan Gallegos for current review times.
Fee schedule
Monticello building permit fees
Online through the iWorQ portal or in-person at the city office
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (435) 587-2271 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
- Time windows
- Coordinated through the building official during office hours
Typical sequence: Per standard Utah IBC/IRC construction inspection sequence: footing before pour, foundation, underground plumbing, rough framing, rough electrical/mechanical/plumbing, insulation, final. Specific inspections listed on the permit card.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Monticello permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Monticello, UT? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Monticello, UT? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Monticello, UT? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Monticello, UT? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Monticello, UT? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Monticello, UT? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Monticello City Building and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.