Who issues the permit in Kearns?

The local building department for Kearns handles permitting. This page lists its contact details and online portal. Your mailing city is not always the permitting authority, so confirm the jurisdiction before you apply.

How do I find out the exact requirements for my project?

Run the free PermitRoadmap check for your specific project and answers. It returns the likely permits, documents, inspections, and next steps, each linked to its official source.

Do I need a permit for accessory dwelling unit (adu) in Kearns?

Permit required

Yes. In Utah, accessory dwelling unit (adu) generally requires a permit, and Kearns is no exception.

One internal ADU inside the main home is a permitted use in areas zoned primarily residential, and it must comply with all applicable building, health, and fire codes (10-21-303). Starting October 1, 2026, cities the law calls specified municipalities must permit a detached ADU on any lot of 11,000 square feet or more with a single-family home, may not require a conditional use permit for it in a primarily residential zone, and must still require building, health, and fire code compliance (10-21-304). Utah's IRC exempts an ADU from the two-family dwelling separation rules when the walls or floors between units have at least 1/2-inch gypsum board on each side, and Utah deletes the IRC mandate for residential fire sprinklers, so they are optional (15A-3-202).

Get the checklist for your accessory dwelling unit (adu) in Kearns. A free check first, then a free printable Permit Prep Pack.

Local detail for Kearns: Kearns does not run its own building department. Building permits and inspections for Kearns are handled by the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD), the same office that serves unincorporated Salt Lake County.

Documents you may need

Permit application on the standardized Utah building permit formRequired
Site plan with the ADU location, setbacks, parking, and utility connectionsRequired
Construction drawings with floor plan, egress, fire separation, and alarm locationsRequired
Energy compliance information for the building envelopeLikely required
Rental permit or license where the city or county requires one for an internal ADUSometimes required

Possible inspections

Footing and foundation for new construction
Framing with electrical, plumbing, and mechanical rough-ins
Insulation inspection
Final inspection

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for accessory dwelling unit (adu) in Kearns?: Yes. In Utah, accessory dwelling unit (adu) generally requires a permit, and Kearns is no exception. The documents and inspections sections on this page list what the building department typically asks for.
Who issues the permit in Kearns?: The local building department for Kearns handles permitting. This page lists its contact details and online portal. Your mailing city is not always the permitting authority, so confirm the jurisdiction before you apply.
How do I find out the exact requirements for my project?: Run the free PermitRoadmap check for your specific project and answers. It returns the likely permits, documents, inspections, and next steps, each linked to its official source.

PermitRoadmap is an independent informational service and is not affiliated with any city, county, state agency, or permitting authority. Results are informational and do not replace confirming requirements with the local permitting authority.