Provo, UT Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

Provo City Code Chapter 14.30 ("Accessory Dwelling Units") governs ADUs in conjunction with one-family detached dwellings. As required by Utah Code Section 10-9a-530, the use of an accessory dwelling unit in areas zoned primarily for residential use (RA, R1, R2, LDR, MDR, HDR, CMU, VLDR, RM, RC, certain PRO zones, and SDP overlay zones 2-5) is a permitted use except as otherwise provided in the chapter, and internal ADUs are a permitted use in all areas west of Interstate 15. Under Section 14.30.030, no more than one ADU is allowed per one-family detached dwelling, and an ADU may be located only over an attached garage, inside the dwelling, in an addition that preserves one-family character, or in a detached accessory structure in the rear and/or side yard. A detached ADU structure must be at least 200 square feet but have a footprint and height less than the main dwelling, be set back from any property line no less than 10 feet (or the existing dwelling setback if less), be architecturally compatible, sit on a site-built foundation, and have independent utility connections; shipping containers are prohibited unless they meet building codes and are clad to match. The ADU may not alter the home's appearance as a one-family dwelling, and either the main unit or the ADU must be occupied by an owner occupant as defined in Section 14.06.020. The ADU may not house more than three related or unrelated adults plus minor children. A one-family dwelling with an ADU must have at least four off-street parking spaces (two may be tandem), and the operator must obtain a Rental Dwelling License under Chapter 6.26, which expires one year after approval or upon transfer of the property and is tied to a recorded deed restriction.