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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Sevier County
No building shall be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, converted, or demolished unless a permit has first been obtained. Structures exceeding 120 square feet require a permit. All structures with any electrical or plumbing require a permit regardless of size.
- Exempt Single-story detached structures 120 square feet or less with no electrical or plumbing
- Exempt Legitimate agricultural buildings for qualifying agricultural use (permit required but fee is waived)
- Exempt Repairs or replacement of equivalent existing components (like-for-like) that do not involve structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical changes
Note: Enclosed storage containers (shipping containers, cargo containers) are regulated separately under Section 150.21 of Sevier County Code. Confirm specific requirements with the building department.
- Completed building permit application
- Unincorporated Area Signature Sheet (with Utah Power, Division of Water Rights, and Central Utah Public Health signatures) for residential new construction
- Road Encroachment and Addressing Permit (if new driveway or address)
- Site plan showing property lines, structure location, setbacks
- Two sets of construction drawings
- Owner-builder form if applicable
- Contractor license number if applicable
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code, 2021 International Residential Code, 2021 International Mechanical Code, 2021 International Plumbing Code, 2021 International Fuel Gas Code, 2021 International Energy Conservation Code, National Electrical Code (current edition), Utah Wildland Urban Interface Code
- Permit validity
- Permits become null if work does not commence within 180 days of issuance. Permits may also expire if work is suspended or abandoned for more than 180 days after commencement.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builder exemption available for primary residences under Utah Code Section 58-55-305. Requires DOPL Owner/Builder Certification Agreement. Specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas) must still be performed by licensed contractors.
- Contractor requirements
- Any work valued at $3,000 or more requires a Utah-licensed contractor unless the owner-builder exemption applies.
Source: Sevier County Building, Planning and Zoning Department ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Two weeks for plan review; varies based on project complexity.
- 01 Determine that the project is in unincorporated Sevier County (not within a city/town boundary).
- 02 For new residential construction: obtain signatures on the Unincorporated Area Signature Sheet from Rocky Mountain Power/Utah Power, Utah Division of Water Rights, and Central Utah Public Health Department.
- 03 Obtain Road Encroachment and Addressing Permit from Sevier County if the project involves a new driveway access or address assignment.
- 04 Prepare two sets of construction drawings (plans) per residential or commercial project requirements.
- 05 Register for a CityInspect account and submit the building permit application online with all required attachments.
- 06 County staff reviews completeness and all required documentation.
- 07 Plans are reviewed by the Building Official. Submit plans at least two weeks prior to desired start date.
- 08 Pay the applicable permit fee. Double fees apply if work has already begun without a permit.
- 09 Upon approval, receive the issued permit. Post the permit card visibly on the job site before work begins.
- 10 Call in required inspections at least 24 hours in advance via the CityInspect portal or by phone.
- 11 Obtain final inspection approval before occupying any new structure.
Typical processing time: Two weeks for plan review; varies based on project complexity.
Source: Sevier County Building, Planning and Zoning Department ↗
Fee schedule
Sevier County building permit fees
Fee schedule not publicly published online. Contact Sevier County Building Department at (435) 893-0420 for current fees.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- CityInspect portal (online)
- (435) 893-0420 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- At least 24 hours before the desired inspection date.
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Typical sequence: Typical sequence: footing reinforcement, foundation wall reinforcement, under-slab plumbing, rough framing and rough trades, insulation, rough drywall, exterior work, utility lines, masonry, final inspection. The inspection list may not be inclusive of all required inspections; confirm project-specific requirements with the Building Official.
Source: Sevier County Building, Planning and Zoning Department ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Sevier County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Sevier County, UT? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Sevier County, UT? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Sevier County, UT? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Sevier County, UT? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Sevier County, UT? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Sevier County Building, Planning and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.