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Whether you are tearing down an old shed, removing a swimming pool, or executing a full structural demolition, local regulations require strict oversight. Tearing down structures involves managing hazardous waste and shutting off municipal utilities, which is why pulling a permit is almost always a mandatory first step.
In Utah, demolishing a structure requires a permit.
Demolishing a building, or any structure with utilities or a foundation, requires a demolition permit, plus utility disconnects and often an asbestos check before work begins. Very small accessory structures such as a shed under 200 sq ft with no utilities may be exempt; confirm locally. Plans are reviewed under the Statewide (local may vary) code (IRC 2024); apply through Davis County Planning Department before work begins.
Source: Statewide (local may vary), IRC 2024 · Verified 2026 by StateDataIndex
With a growing population of around 370,924 residents, Davis County maintains a relatively streamlined permitting process compared to major urban hubs. Processing typically takes 1 to 3 weeks.
Because of severe winter weather in Utah, any exterior structures or footings must be set below the local frost line to prevent shifting, as mandated by the Utah State Building Code.
For Davis County residents, we highly recommend reviewing your neighborhood HOA covenants before paying any municipal fees. Often, homeowners associations maintain stricter rules regarding materials and dimensions for your Demolition than the county itself.
Utah zoning is heavily influenced by rapid population growth and water availability, with local governments increasingly adopting high-density transit-oriented zoning. Fortunately, Utah maintains relatively builder-friendly regulations, keeping base permit fees competitive.
This is a planning estimate only — actual fees in Davis County depend on your project valuation. A typical breakdown looks roughly like:
Always confirm exact fees with your local building department before applying.
*Chart represents median application base fees and does not include project valuation percentages.
Office: Davis County Planning Department
Address: 61 N Main St #304, Farmington, UT 84025, USA
Phone: (801) 451-3279
Source: official Davis County government records. Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.
In Davis County, applications and fees are usually handled through an online permit portal. Your contractor should include their Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing license number to avoid rejections.
When applying for a Demolition permit, you or your contractor will generally need to submit the following documentation for the city's review:
Key code points for a Demolition in Davis County: Most municipalities mandate that all utility lines must be safely capped, inspected, and signed off by the utility providers prior to any physical demolition work to prevent public safety hazards.
Estimated processing time in Davis County: 2 to 4 weeks.
Building without authorization is considered a code violation. The local government can issue a Stop Work Order, forcing you to halt construction immediately. You may be subject to retroactive permit fees (often double the original cost), daily fines, or even a mandate to tear down the unpermitted work at your own expense.
Yes. Utah generally allows property owners to act as their own general contractor under an Owner-Builder exemption. If you take this route, you assume full legal and financial liability and must ensure all work complies with the Utah State Building Code.
As a planning estimate, base municipal fees for a Demolition permit in Davis County typically fall between $128 and $195. The final amount depends on your project valuation, so confirm the exact figure with the local building department.
Based on the size of Davis County, the typical processing time is 2 to 4 weeks. Times vary with the season and the building department application volume.
You can apply through the Davis County Planning Department or online via the county permit portal. For questions, call (801) 451-3279.
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