The Complete Guide to Building an ADU in Utah — Costs, Permits, and Jobsite Cleanup

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have exploded in popularity across Utah as homeowners look for ways to increase property value, create rental income, or provide private living space for family members. Whether you’re imagining a modern backyard suite, a guest house, or a long-term rental, building an ADU requires the right planning, budgeting, and jobsite coordination from start to finish.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know — including permits, construction phases, design choices, and even the often-overlooked cleanup requirements that come with any residential build.

1. What Exactly Is an ADU?

An ADU is a fully functioning living space built on the same lot as your main home. These include:

• Detached backyard casitas
• Above-garage apartments
• Basement conversions
• Add-on suites with their own entrance

Most Utah cities now allow ADUs, but with zoning rules and permitting requirements that must be followed.

If you’re planning to Build an ADU in Utah, it’s important to work with a licensed builder who understands city codes, lot spacing, fire-setback requirements, utility connections, and long-term structural planning.

2. How Much Does an ADU Cost in Utah?

ADU pricing varies based on size, materials, and whether the unit is attached or detached. On average:

• Basement ADU: $75,000–$150,000
• Attached ADU: $120,000–$200,000
• Detached Casita / Backyard Unit: $150,000–$350,000+

Factors affecting price include:

• Excavation and foundation
• Utility tie-ins (water, sewer, electrical)
• Framing and roofing
• Kitchen and bathroom installation
• Inspections and engineering

Homeowners working with a high-end licensed builder — such as Prestigious Home Builders — benefit from accurate budgeting, professional project management, and long-term value that cheaper contractors often fail to deliver.

3. Permit Requirements for ADUs in Utah

City-to-city laws vary, but in general Utah cities require:

• ADU building permit
• Zoning approval
• Architectural plans
• Electrical & plumbing permits
• Fire separation compliance
• Parking space verification

Skipping permit steps can lead to:

• Fines
• Forced demolition
• Restrictions on renting the ADU

Working with a licensed contractor streamlines this process and ensures everything is filed correctly the first time.

4. Key Construction Stages of an ADU

Building an ADU typically includes:

Site Prep & Excavation

Clearing vegetation, leveling soil, and preparing utilities.

Foundation & Framing

Pouring footings, raising walls, installing trusses.

Mechanical Installations

Plumbing, HVAC, electrical, insulation, and air sealing.

Interior Builds

Drywall, flooring, cabinets, tilework, and bathroom fixtures.

Exterior Finishes

Siding, stucco, roofing, and landscaping.

If your ADU includes a luxury bathroom layout, connecting it with a remodel or finishes similar to a Bathroom Remodel ensures design consistency between the main home and the new unit.

5. Jobsite Cleanup: The Most Overlooked Cost

Every construction project produces debris — lumber scraps, drywall, old materials, concrete, packaging, roofing waste, and demolition leftovers.

That’s why every ADU project needs a Dumpster Rental on-site.

Utah homeowners rely on companies like Dumpster Rental services from A to Z Construction to handle:

• Construction debris disposal
• Daily or weekly haul-offs
• Recycling of concrete, metal, and wood
• Safe, compliant waste removal

Without proper dumpster management, you risk:

• Delayed inspections
• Safety hazards
• Larger cleanup costs at the end of construction

Dumpster rentals keep projects moving efficiently and ensure your jobsite passes inspections easily.

6. How Long Does It Take to Build an ADU?

Typical timelines in Utah are:

• Planning & Permits: 4–10 weeks
• Construction: 4–7 months
• Inspections & Final Approval: 2–6 weeks

Detached ADUs and casitas take longer, especially when foundation work is required.

7. Is an ADU Worth It in Utah?

Absolutely — ADUs provide:

• Extra long-term rental income
• Higher property value
• Flexible living space for family
• Tax advantages
• Multi-generational living potential

Utah’s growing population and housing demand make ADUs one of the strongest property investments homeowners can make right now.

Final Thoughts

Building an ADU is a major project — but the payoff can be tremendous when done properly. With the right team managing design, construction, and jobsite cleanup, Utah homeowners can create beautiful, compliant, long-lasting ADUs with exceptional value.

Whether you’re planning a basement conversion, a detached casita, or a full backyard guest home, start by working with experienced builders who understand Utah regulations — and make sure your jobsite stays clean, safe, and productive with a dedicated dumpster rental service.