Project Guides
Pool Construction Permits: Navigating Local Rules
Planning to build a pool? Learn about the complex permit requirements involving soil tests...
Read GuideLocal Project Overview
New Home Construction · Davis County, Utah
Permit required
In Utah, a New Home Construction requires a building permit.
Building a new home always requires a building permit, plus separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits and full plan review. Zoning, setback, and impact-fee review also apply. 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
Building a custom home from the ground up requires comprehensive oversight from the city. This involves a master building permit that encompasses zoning, foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. It is the most heavily regulated residential project, ensuring the dwelling is safe for human habitation.
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.
Code Compliance & Inspections
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.
Concurrent Permits & HOAs
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 New Home Construction than the county itself.
Zoning & Cost Factors
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.
Estimated municipal base fee: $1,275–$1,950
This is a planning estimate only — actual fees in Davis County depend on your project valuation. A typical breakdown looks roughly like:
- Application Fee: ~$450
- Plan Review Fee: ~$300
- Inspection Fee: ~$750
Always confirm exact fees with your local building department before applying.
Cost Comparison: Davis County vs State Average
State Average Base Fee
Davis County Estimated Base Fee
*Chart represents median application base fees and does not include project valuation percentages.
Davis County Building Department
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.
How to Apply in Davis County
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.
New Home Construction Requirements in Davis County
Typical Submittal Package
When applying for a New Home Construction permit, you or your contractor will generally need to submit the following documentation for the city's review:
- Complete architectural and structural engineering plans
- Topographical property survey
- Energy code compliance report
- Soil, drainage, and grading plan
Standard Ordinances & Processing Time
Key code points for a New Home Construction in Davis County: Multiple phase inspections are mandatory, including foundation, rough-in (plumbing, electrical, framing), insulation, and a final comprehensive inspection before the Certificate of Occupancy is issued.
Estimated processing time in Davis County: 2 to 4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific penalties for unpermitted New Home Construction work in urban Davis County?
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.
Can a homeowner pull their own New Home Construction permit in Utah?
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.
How much does a New Home Construction permit cost in Davis County?
As a planning estimate, base municipal fees for a New Home Construction permit in Davis County typically fall between $1,275 and $1,950. The final amount depends on your project valuation, so confirm the exact figure with the local building department.
How long does it take to get a New Home Construction permit in Davis County?
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.
Where do I apply for a New Home Construction permit in Davis County?
You can apply through the Davis County Planning Department or online via the county permit portal. For questions, call (801) 451-3279.
Help the Davis County Community
Did you recently pay for a permit here? Anonymously share the fee to help our database stay accurate.
Thank you! Your data has been saved.
Expert New Home Construction Resources
Mistakes to Avoid
7 Critical Mistakes Homeowners Make During the Permitting Process
Starting work before the permit is issued can lead to double fees and stop-work orders.
Read Guide
Permit Guides
The Ultimate Guide to US Building Permits in 2026
Everything you need to know about structural safety, legal compliance, and avoiding fines.
Read GuideOther Permit Types in Davis County
Planning another home improvement project? Check the requirements and fees for:
Nearby Jurisdictions in Utah
Building near the county line? Check requirements for neighboring areas: