Before You Build in South Jordan, UT: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Retaining walls in South Jordan over 4 feet (measured bottom of footing to top) require a building permit and stamped engineering per IRC Section R404.

Pools in South Jordan require a minimum 48-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates per the International Residential Code Appendix G as adopted by Utah.

Live hedges in South Jordan are generally not regulated as fences under Title 17, except within the corner-lot sight-distance triangle where height limits apply.

South Jordan Title 17 zoning limits fences to 4 ft in front yards and 6 ft in side/rear yards in standard residential zones. Taller fences require a zoning approval.

South Jordan requires residential pools to be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches tall with self-closing, self-latching gates, per Utah-adopted International Residential Code.

All pool and spa drains in South Jordan must comply with the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Act — anti-entrapment covers and, where required, secondary safety systems.

South Jordan regulates above-ground residential swimming pools through the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) adopted by the City Building Department, with Utah State amendments under Title 15A. The barrier around an above-ground pool must be at least 48 inches high above grade, must not allow passage of a 4-inch-diameter sphere, and must surround the entire perimeter. The pool wall itself may serve as the barrier under ISPSC Section 305.5 only if it is at least 48 inches above grade for the entire perimeter and any ladder or steps used to access the pool can be secured, locked, or removed so that the resulting opening will not pass a 4-inch sphere. Public/community above-ground pools (HOA, apartment, hotel) are also subject to Utah Admin Code R392-302, which requires a 6-foot perimeter fence with self-closing, self-latching gates.

South Jordan allows ADUs (accessory apartments) per the city's Accessory Dwelling Unit Guidebook and Utah Code §10-9a-530 (HB 462, 2022). ADU Affidavit required. Owner occupancy required for internal ADUs. Internal ADUs cannot be used as short-term rentals. Building permit required for all ADU construction.

Garage conversions in South Jordan require building permits and Utah Residential Code compliance. If converting to an ADU, ADU rules apply including owner-occupancy requirement and prohibition on STR use. Certificate of occupancy required before habitation.

South Jordan requires building permits for accessory structures including sheds. Structures must comply with zoning setback and placement requirements. Utah Residential Code §R105.2 may exempt structures under 200 sq ft at state level, but South Jordan permit requirements should be verified.

Outdoor burning in South Jordan is regulated by the Utah Division of Air Quality and Salt Lake Valley Health Department. Burn bans are frequently implemented in the Wasatch Front due to air quality inversions. Open burning is prohibited on red/yellow air action days. South Jordan is served by Unified Fire Authority (UFA).

Recreational fire pits in South Jordan are subject to Unified Fire Authority (UFA) guidelines and Utah DAQ air quality rules. On red/yellow air action days, all outdoor burning including fire pits is prohibited. Gas fire pits may be less restricted. Check UFA guidelines before lighting.

Secondary (irrigation) water restricted to 2-3 days per week during drought; no daytime watering 10am-6pm May through October.

Trees on private property may be removed without permit; park strip and protected trees in development zones require city approval.