Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Moving to Salt Lake City, UT?

Here are the local rules you need to know before you unpack.

Every city has its own set of local ordinances that go beyond state and federal law. From when you can mow your lawn to whether you can park your RV in the driveway, these rules affect daily life in ways most people do not expect. This guide covers the key ordinances in Salt Lake City across 41 categories and 198 specific rules we track.

41 Permissive100 Moderate57 Strict

πŸ”Š Noise Ordinances

Noise rules affect everything from weekend parties to lawn care schedules. Quiet hours, construction restrictions, and barking dog limits vary widely between cities.

Aircraft Noise

Few Restrictions

Aircraft noise preempted by FAA under 49 USC 40103. Salt Lake City International Airport operates a voluntary noise abatement program and Part 150 study.

Preemption: FAA / 49 USC 40103Airport: SLC Intl Noise Office

Leaf Blower Rules

Some Restrictions

Leaf blowers permitted 7 AM-8 PM weekdays and 8 AM-8 PM weekends. Salt Lake City has adopted voluntary transition away from gas-powered blowers to reduce air pollution.

Hours: 7 AM-8 PM weekday; 8 AM-8 PM weekendGas Ban: No current ban; voluntary transition

Amplified Music & Events

Heavy Restrictions

Amplified sound audible beyond 50 feet from the source between 10 PM and 7 AM violates SLC 9.28. Special event permits required for public amplification.

50-ft Rule: Audible beyond 50 ft after 10 PM prohibitedPermit: Required for public outdoor amplification

Vehicle Noise

Some Restrictions

Modified exhaust, tire squealing, and loud stereos violate SLC 9.28 and Utah Code 41-6a-1626. Stereo audible 50+ feet is cited.

Stereo Rule: Audible 50+ feet = violationMuffler: Required per Utah 41-6a-1626

Industrial Noise

Some Restrictions

Commercial properties limited to 65 dBA daytime and 55 dBA at night at residential property lines per SLC 9.28. HVAC and loading dock noise regulated.

Day Limit: 65 dBA at residential lineNight Limit: 55 dBA

Quiet Hours

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM weekdays and 10 PM to 9 AM weekends per SLC Code 9.28. Residential noise limit is 55 dBA at night.

Quiet Hours: 10 PM-7 AM (weekdays); 10 PM-9 AM (weekends)Night Limit: 55 dBA residential

Barking Dogs

Some Restrictions

Habitual barking for 15+ minutes continuously or 30+ minutes intermittently is a nuisance under SLC Code 8.04. Enforced by Salt Lake County Animal Services.

Threshold: 15 min continuous or 30 min intermittentEnforcement: Salt Lake County Animal Services

Construction Hours

Some Restrictions

Construction noise allowed 7 AM to 8 PM weekdays and 8 AM to 8 PM weekends/holidays per SLC Code 9.28.060. After-hours work requires a noise variance.

Weekday Hours: 7 AM-8 PMWeekend Hours: 8 AM-8 PM

🏠 Short-Term Rentals

If you plan to rent out your home on Airbnb or VRBO - even occasionally - you need to know the local STR rules before listing.

Insurance Requirements

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City requires $1,000,000 liability insurance per SLC Code Chapter 5.90 for all short-term rentals. Proof of coverage is submitted with conditional use permit and business license applications.

Minimum Coverage: $1,000,000 liabilityCode Section: SLC 5.90.070

Occupancy Limits

Some Restrictions

STR occupancy limited by building code (2 per bedroom + 2) and home occupation rules restricting customer traffic.

Fact: 2 persons per bedroom + 2 guidelineFact: Must comply with IPMC adopted by city

Registration Rules

Heavy Restrictions

STR operators must register for a business license, home occupation permit, and transient room tax account.

Fact: Home occupation business license requiredFact: State sales tax registration required

Host Presence Rule

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City Title 21A treats short-term rentals as accessory uses tied to a primary residence in most zones, meaning the host must occupy the home as their primary residence even when renting rooms to guests.

Code: SLC Title 21A.36Hosted stays: Allowed in most zones

Primary-Residence-Only Rule

Heavy Restrictions

Short-term rentals in Salt Lake City must operate from the host's primary residence, with the dwelling serving as the host's domicile for a majority of the calendar year before any STR activity is permitted.

Domicile required: Majority of yearInvestor-only STRs: Not allowed residentially

Extended Home Share

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City distinguishes short-term rentals from longer home-share arrangements at thirty days, with stays beyond that threshold treated as standard residential leases under Utah's URLTA rather than transient lodging.

Threshold: 30 consecutive daysUnder threshold: STR rules apply

Repeat Violator Strikes

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City escalates penalties on hosts who accumulate repeated short-term rental code violations within a rolling period, moving from warning letters to license suspension and zoning-court referrals on later strikes.

Lookback: Rolling 12 monthsStrike 1: Warning + deadline

Host Platform Liability

Few Restrictions

Utah Code 10-9a-401 sharply limits how Salt Lake City can hold listing platforms like Airbnb and VRBO accountable, restricting cities to registration-style obligations rather than direct platform fines for unlicensed hosts.

State law: UT 10-9a-401 preemptsPlatform fines: Not directly allowed

Night Caps

Few Restrictions

No specific annual night cap for permitted STRs, but primary residence requirement limits rental activity.

Fact: No explicit night cap ordinanceFact: Primary residence requirement applies

Noise Rules

Heavy Restrictions

STR operators in Salt Lake City must follow all residential noise rules in Chapter 9.28 β€” 10 PM–7 AM quiet hours, 55 dB residential limit. STR noise complaints can trigger conditional use permit revocation.

Quiet Hours: 10 PM – 7 AMDay Limit: 65 dB(A)

Parking Rules

Some Restrictions

STRs must provide off-street parking per underlying dwelling requirements; on-street guest parking subject to neighborhood permit zones.

Fact: Meet underlying zoning parking minimumsFact: Typically 2 off-street spaces for SFR

Permit Requirements

Heavy Restrictions

Short-term rentals under 30 days are only allowed in the operator's primary residence; a conditional use permit and business license are required.

Fact: Must be operator's primary residenceFact: Non-owner-occupied STRs prohibited

Taxes & Fees

Some Restrictions

STRs must collect Utah sales tax, Salt Lake County transient room tax, and city business license fees.

Fact: Utah state sales tax ~7.75%Fact: County TRT ~4.25%

πŸ”₯ Fire Regulations

Fire pit rules, fireworks restrictions, and brush clearance requirements are especially important if you are coming from a state with different fire risk profiles.

Brush Clearance

Heavy Restrictions

Defensible space required around structures in wildland-urban interface per SLC Fire Code and IWUIC adoption.

Fact: Zone 1: 0-30 ft cleared of dead fuelFact: Zone 2: 30-100 ft reduced fuel

Backyard Fires

Some Restrictions

Backyard recreational fires allowed in approved pits or devices with 25-foot setback and attendance requirement.

Fact: Approved device requiredFact: 25 ft setback from structures

Wildfire Zones

Heavy Restrictions

Wildland-urban interface mapped for east bench and canyon neighborhoods with enhanced construction and vegetation standards.

Fact: IWUIC adopted citywideFact: Class A roofing required in WUI

Smoke Detectors

Heavy Restrictions

Smoke alarms required in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level per Utah IRC and SLC Building Code.

Fact: Every bedroom requires alarmFact: Outside sleeping areas

Propane Storage

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City enforces International Fire Code chapter 61 propane storage limits via SLC Title 18, capping residential cylinder storage and requiring permits for large tanks, with the Salt Lake City Fire Department conducting inspections.

Code basis: IFC Chapter 61Residential limit: Two 100-pound cylinders

Outdoor Burning

Heavy Restrictions

Open burning generally prohibited; Utah DAQ burn windows apply only to agricultural parcels (SLC Code 18.60, UAC R307-202).

Fact: Open burning banned citywideFact: No trash or yard waste burning

Fire Pit Rules

Some Restrictions

Recreational fires allowed with restrictions per Salt Lake City Fire Code (SLC Code Title 18.60 adopting IFC 307).

Fact: 3 ft diameter max for recreational firesFact: 25 ft setback from structures

Fireworks

Heavy Restrictions

Fireworks banned in wildland-urban interface and foothills; legal aerial/ground fireworks allowed only on July 2-5 and July 22-25 (SLC Code 18.60).

Fact: Banned in foothills and WUI zonesFact: Legal only on designated holidays

πŸš— Parking Rules

Parking rules catch more new residents off guard than almost any other ordinance. RV storage, overnight parking bans, and driveway regulations vary significantly.

Abandoned Vehicles

Heavy Restrictions

Vehicles left on public or private property for 72+ hours without being moved may be tagged and towed as abandoned.

Fact: 72-hour tag-and-tow processFact: Expired registration over 6 months is evidence of abandonment

EV Charging

Few Restrictions

EV charging is encouraged; SLC requires EV-ready wiring in new multifamily and commercial developments.

Fact: EV-ready wiring required in new multifamily/commercialFact: Home chargers need electrical permit

Overnight Parking

Some Restrictions

Overnight on-street parking is generally allowed in SLC except in RPP zones, snow routes during storms, and posted areas.

Fact: No citywide overnight banFact: Snow emergency routes cleared during storms

Street Parking Limits

Some Restrictions

Street parking is generally limited to 72 hours in the same location under SLC Code 12.56.160; signed zones may be shorter.

Fact: 72-hour max in one location citywideFact: Residential Permit Parking zones require permits

RV & Boat Parking

Heavy Restrictions

RVs, trailers, and boats may not be parked on city streets more than 48 hours and face restrictions on front yards.

Fact: 48-hour on-street limit for RVsFact: Oversize vehicles barred from residential overnight parking

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

Commercial vehicles over 9,000 lbs GVWR may not be parked overnight in residential zones under SLC 12.56.

Fact: 9,000 lbs GVWR thresholdFact: No overnight parking 10 PM-6 AM residential

Driveway Rules

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City requires paved driveways under Β§21A.44.050. Curb cuts require a Public Way permit; maximum width 24 ft for single-family; surface must be concrete, asphalt, or approved pavers.

Max Width: 24 ft single-familySurface: Concrete, asphalt, approved pavers

🧱 Fence Regulations

Planning to put up a fence? Height limits, material restrictions, and permit requirements differ by city - and sometimes by which side of the property the fence sits on.

πŸ” Animal Ordinances

Pet owners and aspiring chicken keepers should check local animal ordinances before signing a lease or closing on a home.

Wildlife Feeding

Heavy Restrictions

Intentional feeding of deer, raccoons, coyotes, and other wildlife prohibited in Salt Lake City per SLC 8.04. Bird feeding allowed but must not attract rodents or big game.

Prohibited: Deer, elk, coyote, raccoon feedingFine: $100+

Animal Hoarding

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City Animal Services responds to suspected hoarding under Title 6 cruelty and welfare provisions, working with mental health partners when residents accumulate animals beyond their ability to provide adequate food, sanitation, and veterinary care.

Code title: SLC Title 6 + UT 76-9-301Lead agency: SLC Animal Services

Cat Rules

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City requires every cat over four months to be licensed and rabies vaccinated under Title 6, and prohibits owners from allowing cats to trespass on neighboring property or run at large in public areas.

License age: Four months and upRequired vaccine: Rabies, current

Mandatory Spay/Neuter

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City does not blanket-mandate spay or neuter, but Title 6 sharply discounts licenses for altered pets and requires sterilization for animals adopted from the city shelter or impounded multiple times for running at large.

Adoption rule: Mandatory pre-release alterLicense markup: About 5x unaltered

Microchipping

Few Restrictions

Salt Lake City does not universally mandate microchipping, but Animal Services microchips every animal adopted, redeemed, or licensed at the shelter and requires chips before release for repeat at-large impound cases.

Universal mandate: No, encouraged onlyAdoption requirement: Yes, included in fee

Coyote Management

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City defers most coyote management to Utah Division of Wildlife Resources under state code Title 23A, but Animal Services responds to aggressive incidents and the city actively promotes hazing techniques to keep urban coyotes wary.

Lead agency: Utah DWR statewideCity response: Animal Services hazing tips

Pet Store Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City prohibits pet stores from selling commercially bred dogs, cats, and rabbits, restricting retail to animals sourced from shelters or 501c3 rescues, mirroring a model used by Sandy and other Utah cities.

Allowed sources: Shelter or rescue onlyCovered species: Dogs, cats, rabbits

Veterinary Clinic Zoning

Few Restrictions

Salt Lake City zoning Title 21A allows veterinary offices and small-animal clinics by right in most commercial and mixed-use districts, with conditional-use review when overnight boarding, kennels, or large-animal practices are involved.

Code chapter: Title 21A.33By right: Most commercial zones

Bird Protection

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City defers to the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Utah wildlife code to protect native birds, prohibiting take or nest disturbance, while local Title 6 covers bird-keeping nuisance and sanitation.

Primary law: Federal MBTAState backstop: Utah Code 23A-3

Wildlife Rescue Permits

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City does not issue wildlife rehabilitation permits; residents who find injured wildlife must contact a Utah Division of Wildlife Resources licensed rehabilitator, since possession of native wildlife without a state permit is unlawful under Utah Code 23A.

Permit issuer: Utah DWR onlyCitizen rule: No keeping wildlife

Pet Limits

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City limits households to 2 dogs and 4 cats (6 total) per dwelling unit under SLC 8.04.280. Kennel license required beyond these limits.

Dogs: 2 per householdCats: 4 per household

Dog Leash Laws

Heavy Restrictions

Dogs must be leashed (max 6 ft) in all public areas in Salt Lake City per SLC 8.04.390. Off-leash only in designated dog parks like Memory Grove, Parley's, and Tanner.

Leash Max: 6 feetCode: SLC 8.04.390

Breed Restrictions

Few Restrictions

Salt Lake City has NO breed-specific legislation. Dangerous dog designation is behavior-based under SLC 8.04.340 and Utah Code 18-1-3.

BSL: NoneDangerous Dog Code: SLC 8.04.340

Exotic Pets

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City prohibits keeping wild, dangerous, or exotic animals including big cats, bears, primates, venomous reptiles, and constrictors over 8 ft under SLC 8.04.230.

Code: SLC 8.04.230Banned: Big cats, bears, primates, venomous reptiles

Beekeeping

Some Restrictions

Beekeeping allowed on residential lots in Salt Lake City under SLC 8.08. Up to 2 hives on lots under 10,000 sq ft; registration with Utah Dept of Ag required.

Hive Limit: 2 on lots under 10,000 sq ftSetback: 10 ft from property line

Chickens & Livestock

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City may allow backyard chickens with limits. Roosters typically banned in residential areas. Livestock requires agricultural zoning.

Hens: Typically 4 to 6 allowedRoosters: Usually prohibited

🌿 Landscaping Rules

From grass height limits to tree removal permits, landscaping rules can surprise new homeowners, especially in drought-prone areas with water restrictions.

Artificial Turf

Some Restrictions

Artificial turf allowed in rear/side yards; restricted in front yards and park strips per SLC zoning (21A.48).

Fact: Prohibited in front yard and park stripFact: Allowed in side/rear yards

Native Plants

Few Restrictions

Salt Lake City actively encourages native and water-wise plantings through the Flip Your Strip program and Chapter 21A.48 landscaping standards. Utah Code Β§10-9a-530 prohibits cities from banning xeriscape.

Code Section: SLC 21A.48 LandscapingRebate: Flip Your Strip: $1.25/sq ft

Rainwater Harvesting

Some Restrictions

Rainwater harvesting is legal in Salt Lake City under Utah Code Β§73-3-1.5, but users must register with the Utah Division of Water Rights. Limited to 2,500 gallons with registration; 200 gallons without.

No Registration: Up to 200 gallons (2 containers)With Registration: Up to 2,500 gallons

Weed Ordinances

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City Code Chapter 9.20 requires property owners to remove noxious weeds and vegetation over 12 inches. Violations carry $150 first-offense fines and city abatement costs are billed back.

Code Section: SLC Municipal Code 9.20Height Trigger: Over 12 inches

Tree Trimming

Heavy Restrictions

Public street trees managed by Urban Forestry; private pruning of park-strip trees requires a permit (SLC Code 2.26).

Fact: Park-strip trees are city propertyFact: Permit required to prune public trees

Water Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

Watering restricted by season; no watering 10 AM-6 PM May-October per Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities.

Fact: No watering 10 AM-6 PM May-OctFact: No runoff onto streets

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Heavy Restrictions

Removing public/park-strip trees requires Urban Forestry permit and replacement; private tree removal generally unregulated (SLC 2.26).

Fact: Public tree removal needs permitFact: Replacement required

Grass Height Limits

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City enforces a 12-inch maximum grass/weed height under Municipal Code Β§9.20. Violations start at $150. Exemptions exist for approved water-wise and natural landscapes.

Max Height: 12 inchesCode: SLC 9.20.010

πŸ’Ό Home Business

Working from home is common, but running a business from home often requires permits and must comply with zoning restrictions on customer traffic and signage.

🏊 Swimming Pools & Spas

Pool ownership comes with safety fencing requirements, permit obligations, and drainage rules that vary by jurisdiction.

πŸ—οΈ Accessory Structures

Thinking about an ADU, shed, or garage conversion? Local rules on accessory structures have changed rapidly in recent years, especially in California.

Tiny Homes

Some Restrictions

Tiny homes on foundations treated as dwellings; tiny homes on wheels treated as RVs and not allowed as permanent residences.

Fact: Foundation tiny homes legalFact: IRC Appendix Q adopted

Carport Rules

Some Restrictions

Carports allowed as accessory structures with standard setbacks; front-yard carports require special review.

Fact: Rear/side yard preferredFact: Front yard usually prohibited

Garage Conversions

Some Restrictions

Garage conversions require building permit; replacement parking must be provided if required by zone.

Fact: Building permit requiredFact: Egress and insulation to code

ADU Impact Fees

Some Restrictions

ADUs in Salt Lake City pay the city's residential impact fees (parks, fire, police, transportation, water, sewer, stormwater) assessed under SLC Code Chapter 18.98, with exemption pathways available for affordable units under 18.98.060.

Governing Code: SLC Code Chapter 18.98; Utah Code Title 11, Chapter 36aFee Categories: Parks, fire, police, transportation, water, sewer, stormwater

ADU Permits

Few Restrictions

One ADU (internal, attached, or detached) is allowed by right on any lot containing a single-family dwelling under Salt Lake City Code 21A.40.200, in alignment with Utah HB 82 (2021). Building permits are required for all three configurations.

Governing Code: SLC Code 21A.40.200; Utah Code 10-9a-530 (HB 82, 2021)Permitted By Right: Yes β€” one ADU per single-family lot (internal, attached, or detached)

ADU Rental Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

SLC Code 21A.40.200 expressly prohibits renting an ADU as a short-term rental. ADUs are restricted to long-term rentals of 30 consecutive days or longer; under Utah Code 10-9a-530 internal ADUs must be offered for rentals of 30 days or more.

Governing Code: SLC Code 21A.40.200; Utah Code 10-9a-530Short-Term Rentals: Prohibited β€” explicit ban in 21A.40.200

ADU Owner Occupancy

Some Restrictions

Per Utah Code 10-9a-530 (HB 82, 2021), Salt Lake City requires the property owner to occupy either the primary dwelling or the internal ADU as their principal residence. The owner-occupancy requirement can be enforced via affidavit.

Governing Code: SLC Code 21A.40.200; Utah Code 10-9a-530Owner Occupancy Required: Yes β€” owner must occupy primary dwelling OR the ADU

Shed Rules

Some Restrictions

Sheds under 200 sq ft and 12 ft tall exempt from building permit but must meet setbacks (SLC 21A.40).

Fact: 200 sq ft exempt from permitFact: 12 ft height limit for exempt sheds

ADU Rules

Few Restrictions

ADUs (internal, attached, and detached) allowed citywide in single-family zones per SLC 21A.40.200 (2018, expanded 2021).

Fact: One ADU per single-family lotFact: Up to 650-720 sq ft detached

πŸ– Outdoor Cooking

πŸŽ„ Holiday Decorations

🌍 Environmental Rules

Stormwater Management

Heavy Restrictions

SLC requires stormwater management plans for development and prohibits illicit discharge under Chapter 17.81.

Fact: SWPPP required for 1+ acre disturbanceFact: First inch treatment on redevelopment

Erosion Control

Heavy Restrictions

Erosion and sediment control BMPs are required on all construction sites under SLC 17.81 and the Utah CGP.

Fact: BMPs required on all constructionFact: Post-storm inspections mandatory

Grading & Drainage

Some Restrictions

Grading over 50 cubic yards or 2 feet of cut/fill requires a permit under SLC Building Code and Foothill overlay.

Fact: Permit for 50 CY or 2 ft cut/fillFact: Foothill overlay has stricter triggers

Climate Emergency Mobilization

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City adopted Climate Positive 2040 declaring net-zero municipal emissions by 2030 and community-wide carbon neutrality by 2040, plus 100% renewable electricity by 2030 under the city's Climate Action 1.5 Plan.

Net-zero year: 2040 community-wideRenewable target: 100% by 2030

Vehicle Idling Restrictions

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City Code Title 12 limits non-essential vehicle idling to two minutes citywide, with stricter enforcement during winter inversions when the Utah Air Quality Board declares mandatory action days under R307 air quality rules.

Idling limit: Two minutes per hourFirst offense: Warning issued

Sustainable Procurement

Few Restrictions

Salt Lake City's sustainable procurement policy requires departments to prefer recycled-content, energy-efficient, and locally-sourced goods, supporting Climate Positive 2040 goals through purchasing decisions across municipal operations.

Policy type: Internal procurement ruleLead office: Finance and Sustainability

Gas Leaf Blower Ban

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City has begun phasing out gas-powered leaf blowers on city property and is studying a residential phase-out modeled on California's law, prioritizing electric replacements to reduce PM2.5 and noise during winter inversion season.

Status: Municipal phase-out activeResidential: Under study

Flood Zones

Heavy Restrictions

SLC participates in the NFIP; flood zones along the Jordan River, City Creek, and Emigration Creek are mapped by FEMA.

Fact: NFIP participant, CRS Class 8 (10% discount)Fact: 1-foot freeboard above BFE required

🌱 Cannabis Regulations

Home Cultivation

Heavy Restrictions

Home cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Salt Lake City and throughout Utah; only state-licensed facilities may grow cannabis for medical purposes.

Fact: Home grow illegal under Utah state lawFact: Only licensed producers may cultivate

Buffer Zones

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City Title 21A zoning restricts medical cannabis pharmacies to specific zones with a 600-foot buffer from schools. Recreational cannabis remains illegal in Utah; only medical pharmacies licensed by the state may operate.

State law: Utah Code Β§26-61aBuffer: 600 feet from schools

Cannabis Delivery Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Utah allows limited medical cannabis home delivery only through state-licensed courier services tied to specific medical cannabis pharmacies. Recreational delivery is illegal. Patients must hold a valid Utah Medical Cannabis Card to receive deliveries.

Authority: Utah Code Β§26-61aEligible: Medical cardholders only

Commercial Cannabis Zoning

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City Title 21A confines medical cannabis pharmacies to commercial and manufacturing zones. Cultivation and processing facilities are similarly limited. No social-use lounges, retail recreational cannabis, or commercial home cultivation are permitted anywhere in Utah.

Allowed zones: Commercial, manufacturing onlyLicense caps: Set by state statute

Dispensary Zoning

Heavy Restrictions

Medical cannabis pharmacies are licensed by the state and subject to Salt Lake City zoning requiring minimum distances from schools, parks, and residential uses.

Fact: Medical cannabis pharmacies state-licensed onlyFact: Permitted in select commercial/manufacturing zones

β˜€οΈ Solar Energy

πŸͺ§ Sign Regulations

🏚️ Property Maintenance

πŸ’‘ Outdoor Lighting

πŸ”‘ Rental Property Rules

Just Cause Eviction

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City does not have a just-cause eviction ordinance; Utah state law governs terminations, which generally allow no-cause nonrenewal with proper notice.

Fact: No local just-cause ordinance in Salt Lake CityFact: Utah allows 15-day no-cause termination for month-to-month

Rent Control

Few Restrictions

Utah state law (UCA 10-8-85.5) prohibits municipal rent control; Salt Lake City cannot cap rent increases.

Fact: Rent control preempted by state lawFact: No vacancy control

Security Deposit Rules

Some Restrictions

Utah Code 57-17 governs residential security deposits in Salt Lake City, requiring landlords to return deposits within thirty days of move-out with an itemized statement of any deductions for cleaning, damage, or unpaid rent.

Return window: 30 days after move-outItemization: Required in writing

No-Fault Evictions

Few Restrictions

Utah law permits landlords in Salt Lake City to end a month-to-month tenancy without specifying a reason, requiring only a fifteen-day written notice and following Utah Code 78B-6 procedures rather than any local just-cause framework.

Notice required: 15 days writtenCause required: No (month-to-month)

Tenant Anti-Harassment

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City tenants rely on Utah URLTA and federal fair-housing law for protection against landlord harassment, with the city limited by Utah Code 57-20 from passing a standalone tenant anti-harassment ordinance like those in California cities.

Self-help eviction: Banned by URLTADiscrimination: Federal + state law

Source-of-Income Discrimination

Few Restrictions

Unlike many large cities, Salt Lake City does not prohibit landlords from refusing to accept Section 8 vouchers because Utah's Antidiscrimination Act does not list source of income, and Utah Code 57-20 limits local expansion of the protected classes.

State law: No SOI protectionLocal ordinance: Limited by 57-20

Section 8 Voucher Acceptance

Some Restrictions

The Housing Authority of Salt Lake City and the Housing Authority of the County administer the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, helping low-income renters cover roughly thirty percent of income toward rent on participating units.

Tenant share: About 30% of incomeAdministrator: HASLC

Relocation Assistance

Few Restrictions

Salt Lake City does not require landlords to pay relocation assistance when ending a tenancy because Utah Code 57-20 partially preempts city rent regulation, leaving displacement support to voluntary programs and limited state demolition rules.

Mandatory payments: Generally nonePreemption: UT Code 57-20

Pass-Through Charges

Few Restrictions

Salt Lake City does not regulate how landlords pass through utilities, taxes, or capital costs to tenants because Utah Code 57-20 leaves rent and fee structures to the lease itself, with disclosure required only for nonrefundable deposits.

Cap on pass-throughs: None at city levelPreemption: UT Code 57-20

Rental Registration

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City requires all rental housing operators to obtain a business license and participate in the Good Landlord Program or pay a disproportionate rental fee under Chapter 5.14.

Fact: Business license required for all residential rentalsFact: Good Landlord training reduces annual fee

πŸ—‘οΈ Trash & Recycling

🚁 Drone Rules

πŸ” Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors

πŸšͺ Soliciting & Door-to-Door

πŸŒ™ Curfew Laws

πŸ“ Building Setbacks & Zoning

🌳 Tree Protection

🏷️ Garage & Yard Sales

🏘️ HOA Rules

πŸ”§ Building Safety

Pest Control

Some Restrictions

Property owners must keep premises free of rodents and vermin under Salt Lake City Code Chapter 18.60 (Property Maintenance).

Fact: Owners responsible for exterminationFact: IPMC adopted by reference

Fire Sprinkler Requirements

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City requires NFPA 13 or 13R automatic sprinkler systems in nearly all new multifamily, townhouse, and commercial construction under the International Building Code adopted through Utah Code 15A, with SLC Building Services performing plan review and inspection.

Code basis: IBC plus Utah 15ANew multifamily: Sprinklers required

Childcare Center Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City requires childcare centers to obtain a Utah Department of Health & Human Services license, comply with IBC Group E or I-4 occupancy standards, and secure a city business license and zoning approval before serving children.

State license: Utah DHHS ChildcareBuilding class: IBC E or I-4

Door Locking Hardware

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City enforces IBC chapter 10 egress hardware standards through Title 18, requiring exit doors to operate with a single motion without keys or special knowledge so occupants can escape in emergencies.

Code source: IBC Chapter 10Operation rule: Single motion required

Anti-Mansionization

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City Title 21A applies form-based zoning controls including height, setback, lot coverage, and bulk-plane standards that limit mansionization of small lots, especially within historic districts and traditional neighborhoods.

Lot coverage: Around 40 percentHeight cap: 28 to 35 feet

Green Building Code

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City requires LEED Gold or equivalent green building certification on city-owned new construction and major renovations, while encouraging private projects to follow IECC energy code and the Climate Positive 2040 plan.

City projects: LEED Gold targetPrivate floor: IECC energy code

Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed

Some Restrictions

Scaffolding over public right-of-way requires a permit from Salt Lake City Engineering and must meet IBC and OSHA standards.

Fact: Public right-of-way encroachment permit requiredFact: Pedestrian canopy required when over sidewalks

Elevator Maintenance

Heavy Restrictions

Elevators in SLC are regulated by Utah Labor Commission; annual inspection and state certificate required.

Fact: Utah Labor Commission regulatesFact: Annual inspection required

Lead Paint

Heavy Restrictions

Pre-1978 homes in Salt Lake City are subject to federal lead-based paint disclosure under 42 USC Β§4852d. EPA RRP certification required for renovations disturbing >6 sq ft interior/20 sq ft exterior.

Applies To: Pre-1978 housingDisclosure: EPA pamphlet + written form

🚬 Tobacco & Vaping

πŸ›οΈ Single-Use Items

πŸ’Ό Employment Preemption

πŸ›‚ Immigration Policy

πŸ›οΈ Homelessness & Encampment Rules

πŸ›΄ Mobility & Curb Rules

πŸ’§ Water Use Rules

πŸ—ΊοΈ Zoning Overlays & Bonuses

🩺 Public Health Rules

Food Handler Certification

Some Restrictions

Utah requires food handlers in restaurants and food service to obtain a state food handler permit within thirty days of hire. Permits are issued through approved online courses and last three years statewide.

Authority: Utah Code Β§26-15aDeadline: Within 30 days of hire

Restaurant Grade Cards

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake County Health Department inspects Salt Lake City restaurants two to four times yearly. Utah uses a violation-point system rather than letter grades, with inspection results published online for public review by patrons.

Inspector: Salt Lake County Health DeptSystem: Violation points, not grades

Rodent Control

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City Code Title 8 health and safety requires property owners to keep premises free of rodent harborage. Salt Lake County Health Department investigates complaints, particularly along Jordan River corridors and older Avenues neighborhoods.

Authority: SLC Title 8, SLVHD Reg 5Investigator: Salt Lake County Health

Bed-Bug Rules

Some Restrictions

Utah Fit Premises Act and Salt Lake City Title 5 require landlords to maintain habitable units, including treating bed bug infestations. Tenants must cooperate with treatment and avoid moving infested furniture between units.

Authority: Utah Β§57-22-3Landlord duty: Treat verified infestations

Syringe Disposal

Few Restrictions

Utah authorized syringe exchange programs through House Bill 308 in 2016. Salt Lake County Health Department operates exchange sites. Improperly discarded sharps in trash or parks can be reported to county environmental health for cleanup.

Authorized by: Utah HB 308 (2016)Operator: Salt Lake County Health

Healthy Food Retail

Few Restrictions

Salt Lake City partners with Salt Lake County Health Department on healthy food access, supporting farmers markets, mobile produce, and double-up SNAP programs. No menu calorie posting mandate exists locally beyond federal Affordable Care Act chain restaurant rules.

Lead: SLC Sustainability DeptSNAP doubling: Double Up Food Bucks

🏨 Hotels & Lodging

πŸͺ Business Licensing & Operations

Tobacco Retail License

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City requires a state-issued tobacco retail permit plus local business license to sell cigarettes, vape, and nicotine products, with strict zoning buffers from schools, parks, and churches under SLC Code Title 5.

State law: UT 26B-7-501 permitBuffer zone: 1,000 feet schools

Massage Establishments

Some Restrictions

Salt Lake City regulates massage establishments under SLC Code Title 5 with mandatory state therapist licensure (UT 58-47b), background checks, and zoning approval to operate in commercial districts.

State license: UT 58-47b requiredTraining hours: 600 minimum

Adult Entertainment

Heavy Restrictions

Salt Lake City restricts sexually oriented businesses under SLC Code Title 5.61 with strict 1,000-foot buffers from schools, churches, parks, and residences, plus state licensing under UT 10-8-41.5 and employee permits.

Buffer zone: 1,000 feet residentialLocal code: SLC 5.61

Tattoo & Body Modification

Some Restrictions

Tattoo and body modification studios in Salt Lake City need a Title 5 business license plus Salt Lake County Health Department body art permit under UT 26B-7-119, with mandatory bloodborne pathogen training and sterilization standards.

Health permit: Salt Lake County issuedMinor tattoos: Banned even with consent

Secondhand Dealers

Some Restrictions

Pawnshops, secondhand dealers, and metal recyclers in Salt Lake City must register under Utah Pawnshop Act (UT 13-32a) and report all transactions daily to SLCPD via the Regional Automated Pawn Information Database for theft tracking.

State law: UT 13-32a Pawnshop ActHold period: 15 days minimum

🚷 Public Conduct

Overall: What to Expect in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City has 198 ordinances on file across 41 categories. Of these, 41 are rated permissive, 100 moderate, and 57 strict. This gives you a general sense of how tightly regulated daily life is in Salt Lake City compared to other cities.

Rules can change, and enforcement varies. Always verify specific requirements with the city directly before making major decisions like building a fence, listing on Airbnb, or starting a home business.

Also Moving Nearby?