ADU Construction Permits in Big Horn County, Wyoming

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit requires complex zoning, structural, and utility permits.

With a population of around 11,828 residents, Big Horn County generally runs a more streamlined permitting process than major urban hubs.

Code Compliance & Inspections

Because of severe winter weather in Wyoming, any exterior structures or footings must be set below the local frost line to prevent shifting, as mandated by the Wyoming State Building Code.

Zoning & Cost Factors

Wyoming zoning is primarily managed at the county level with a strong emphasis on protecting open spaces, ranching operations, and wildlife migration corridors. Fortunately, Wyoming maintains relatively builder-friendly regulations, keeping base permit fees competitive.

In Big Horn County, you can begin your application online through the county's permit portal, or submit blueprints and a property survey in person. Including your contractor's Local County/City Licensing Office license number helps avoid rejections.

Typical Submittal Package

When applying for a ADU Construction permit, you or your contractor will generally need to submit the following documentation for the city's review:

Standard Ordinances & Processing Time

Key code points for a ADU Construction in Big Horn County: ADUs typically have maximum square footage limits (often 800-1200 sq ft), height restrictions, and usually require dedicated off-street parking depending on local zoning.

Typical processing time: a few days to several weeks, depending on current workload and the season. Contact Big Horn County Land Planning & Engineer for a current estimate.