Before You Build in St. George, UT: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in St. George. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in St. George. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
3 rules on file
Swimming Pools
3 rules on file
ADUs & Granny Flats
2 rules on file
Sheds & Outbuildings
2 rules on file
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
2 rules on file
Landscaping & Tree Removal
3 rules on file
Fences & Walls
Some RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Some RestrictionsSt. George requires the finished side of fences to face neighbors and public areas. Fences must be built within the owner's property line, and shared fence costs are handled privately.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsSt. George regulates fence heights under Title 10-18-1 of the City Code. Front yard fences are limited to 3 feet, while side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet in residential zones.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsSt. George requires permits for fence installation. Permit applications must include site plans showing the proposed fence location, height, and materials.
Swimming Pools
Heavy RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsSt. George requires all residential swimming pools to have a barrier (fence) at least 5 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates, in compliance with the International Building Code.
Above-Ground Pools
Some RestrictionsAbove-ground pools in St. George must comply with the same barrier and safety requirements as in-ground pools. A building permit may be required depending on the pool size.
Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsSt. George requires swimming pools to comply with safety standards including anti-entrapment drain covers, safety equipment, and proper chemical maintenance under the adopted building codes.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Some RestrictionsAccessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsGarage conversions in St. George require a building permit and must comply with zoning requirements for off-street parking. Converting a garage may require providing replacement parking spaces.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsSt. George allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in certain residential zones under specific conditions per the city's zoning ordinance. ADUs must meet size, setback, and parking requirements.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Some RestrictionsShed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsSt. George regulates carports as accessory structures under Title 10 (Zoning Regulations). Section 10-2-1 defines a carport as a private garage not completely enclosed by walls and a door. Yard-and-setback rules in Section 10-5-6 (Yards Unobstructed - Exceptions), the residential-zone requirements in Chapter 10-7, and the street-setback rules in Section 10-7-5 govern where a carport can be placed. Building permits are required for carport construction, and an attached or detached carport must meet the International Residential Code as adopted by Utah and St. George.
Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsSt. George regulates sheds and accessory structures through the zoning ordinance. Small sheds under a certain size may not require a building permit, but must meet setback requirements.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsOpen burning is generally prohibited in St. George due to the desert climate and fire risk. Permits are required for any authorized burning, and burning of trash or debris is not allowed.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsSt. George allows recreational fire pits subject to safety requirements and current fire conditions. Gas fire pits are preferred over wood-burning due to the desert fire risk environment.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Heavy RestrictionsTree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
Water Restrictions
Heavy RestrictionsSt. George enforces water conservation regulations due to the arid desert climate. Outdoor watering schedules are established seasonally, and waste of water is prohibited.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Some RestrictionsSt. George generally allows property owners to remove trees on their private property without a permit, unless the tree is in a protected area or subject to development conditions.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsSt. George requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not obstruct public sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. Trees must be trimmed to provide adequate clearance over public areas.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for St. George.