Do You Need a Permit to Build a Deck in Utah? Here's What You Should Know

By Warrior Built Company

Let’s cut to it: permits aren’t the most exciting part of building a deck — but they’re one of the most important.

If you’re a Utah homeowner or contractor, and you're about to tear into that backyard project, you need to know this upfront: many decks in Utah require a building permit — and skipping that step could cost you big time later.

At Warrior Built, we build solid, code-compliant decks that are made to last — and that starts with knowing the rules.

So, Do You Need a Permit? The Short Answer:

You DON’T need a permit if your deck is:

• Detached from your home

• Under 200 sq ft in size

• Less than 30 inches above the ground

• No roof, covering, or walls

• Not part of your required exit path (front/back door access)

That kind of deck is often considered a "freestanding platform" and doesn’t typically require a building permit in many Utah cities.

⚠️ BUT you still might need zoning approval or to meet setback rules. Don’t assume. Check with your city.

You DO need a permit if your deck is:

• Attached to your home (even by a ledger board)

• Over 200 sq ft

• More than 30 inches off the ground

• Covered (roof, pergola, shade system, etc.)

• Built over a basement walkout, hot tub, or slope

• Used as a main entry/exit from your house

If you’re building anything that might affect structure, safety, or access — your city’s going to want a look at it.

Local Examples Across Utah

Every city has its quirks, but here’s what we’ve seen:

Salt Lake City:

• Permit needed if over 200 sq ft, attached, or over 30" tall

• Small, low, detached decks might slide through without one

Herriman & South Jordan:

• You’ll need a permit for almost anything attached or elevated

• Plans, site layout, and inspections required

Utah County (Lehi, American Fork, etc.):

• Even freestanding decks need zoning review

• Covered decks = full permit package

Pro Tip: If your deck is visible from the street, someone will call it out if it’s not permitted. Don’t risk it.

What Happens If You Skip the Permit?

You might think you’re saving time or money, but here’s what could hit you:

• Stop work orders (your project gets shut down mid-build)

• Fines and fees from your city

• Tear-it-down notices for non-compliant decks

• Delays in selling your home if the appraiser flags it

• Insurance denial if something goes wrong

We’ve seen it — it’s not worth it.

What the Permit Process Looks Like

Here’s how it usually goes:

1. Create or get drawings of your deck design (we can help)

2. Submit plans to your city’s building department

3. Pay permit fees (usually a few hundred bucks)

4. Schedule inspections for footing, framing, and final walkthrough

In most cities, it takes about 1–2 weeks for approval — depending on the season.

Need help getting through this part? We’ve got your back.

Warrior Built’s Take

We don’t cut corners. We build decks that pass code, inspections, and the test of time. So if you’re wondering whether your project needs a permit, ask us before you build. We’d rather help you prep right than fix something later.

Final Thoughts

Permits aren’t red tape — they’re part of doing it right.
If you’re building a deck in Utah and want peace of mind (and a smooth resale later), make sure you're following the rules from day one.

And if you’re not sure?
Call Warrior Built.
We build decks the right way — from the ground up.