Accessory Dwelling Units

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a smaller, independent residential dwelling unit located on the same lot as a stand-alone (i.e., detached) single-family home. ADUs go by many different names throughout the U.S., including basement apartments, mother-in-law apartments, casitas, guest houses, or tiny homes.



Types of Accessory Dwelling Units Allowed in North Salt Lake:

  • Basement Apartments
  • Attached 
  • Detached
  • Second Story Detached (ex. above garage)
  • Tiny homes

Regulations:

On November 11, 2018 the City Council approved Ordinance 2018-14, to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on single family lots. ADU regulations were amended on April 1, 2025 and are now located in the North Salt Lake Municipal Code Section 10-19-17. You can download a copy of the regulations here: ADU Regulations

There is no fee for the land use permit.  Owners must certify that the following safety requirements have been met:

  • Each bedroom must have a working smoke detector
  • A working smoke detector and CO detector in hallways outside of bedrooms
  • GFCI outlets have been installed in kitchen and bathrooms
  • The water heater must have earthquake straps
  • All bedroom windows must meet minimum egress requirements
  • For basement apartments handrails and guardrails are installed
  • Additional off street parking, where required

New construction ADUs must meet the above regulations, obtain a land use permit, and a building permit.

Application for a new and existing Accessory Dwelling Units here: ADU Land Use Permit