On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Richfield
A permit is required for any structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical changes or additions, regardless of project size. All new residential and commercial construction require a permit.
- Exempt Structures under 120 sq. ft. with no electrical or plumbing
- Exempt Repairs or replacement of like-for-like components that do not affect structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems
- Exempt Refinishing work (drywall finishing, flooring, paint)
- Exempt Flat cement work (non-structural sidewalks and patios, confirm with city if structural or within right-of-way)
Note: Confirm specific exemptions and project-specific applicability with Richfield City at (435) 896-6439.
- Richfield City Zoning Permit (approved by city)
- Site plan
- Construction drawings
- Contractor license number (if applicable)
- Owner-builder form (if applicable)
- Building code
- Utah statewide 2021 code package (IBC, IRC, IMC, IPC, IECC, NEC) as adopted under Utah Code Title 15A. Richfield City may have local amendments on file with the UBCC.
- Permit validity
- Permits become null if work does not commence within 180 days of issuance.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builder exemption available for primary residences under Utah Code Section 58-55-305.
- Contractor requirements
- Any work valued at $3,000 or more requires a Utah-licensed contractor unless the owner-builder exemption applies.
Application process
Typical processing: Varies; contact Sevier County at (435) 893-0420 or Richfield City at (435) 896-6439 for status.
- 01 Contact Richfield City Building and Zoning Department at (435) 896-6439 to confirm zoning requirements, setbacks, and land use restrictions.
- 02 Obtain the Richfield City Zoning Permit and have it completed and signed by Richfield City.
- 03 For large permit projects (houses, garages, commercial): submit the building permit application online through CityInspect with the approved zoning permit attached and all required documents.
- 04 For small permit projects (fences, sheds with no electrical/plumbing under 120 sq. ft.): use the small building permit PDF form.
- 05 For any construction or excavation within city right-of-way, obtain an Encroachment Permit from Richfield City.
- 06 Await plan review and approval by the county building official.
- 07 Receive the issued permit. Post it visibly on the job site before work begins.
- 08 Provide the building permit number when scheduling inspections.
- 09 Obtain final inspection before occupying any new structure.
Typical processing time: Varies; contact Sevier County at (435) 893-0420 or Richfield City at (435) 896-6439 for status.
Fee schedule
Richfield building permit fees
Building permit fees are set by Sevier County. Contact county at (435) 893-0420. Richfield City assesses separate impact fees and encroachment permit fees. See impact fees document or contact (435) 896-6439.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (435) 896-6439 - Ask for building inspector Gaylen Matheson (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- At least 24 hours in advance.
Typical sequence: Same as Sevier County standard sequence: footing, foundation, rough framing and trades, insulation, drywall, exterior work, final.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Richfield permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Richfield, UT? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Richfield, UT? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Richfield, UT? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Richfield, UT? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Richfield, UT? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Richfield City Building and Zoning Department; Building permits issued by Sevier County Building Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.