What to Consider in Utah Zoning Laws For Land
Please note this blog is purely informational and not meant to be taken as advice.
Buying land in Utah is an exciting opportunity, but it’s important to understand how zoning laws may affect what you can do with your property. Whether you're looking to build a home, start a farm, or use the land recreationally, zoning laws will play a key role in your plans. Here's what to consider when reviewing Utah zoning laws—and how to find land that fits your goals.
1. Understand the Zoning Designation
Each parcel of land is assigned a zoning designation by the local county or municipality. Common zoning types include residential, agricultural, commercial, and mixed-use. These designations determine what activities are allowed on the property. Before you purchase, make sure the land's zoning aligns with your intended use. You can explore available properties with a variety of zoning types on our website.
2. County vs. City Zoning
Zoning laws in Utah are handled at both the county and city levels. If your land is located outside city limits, it will likely fall under county zoning ordinances, which can be more flexible for things like off-grid living, livestock, or recreational use.
3. Building and Use Restrictions
Even within a zoning category, there may be specific restrictions related to building size, setbacks, water rights, and land use. For example, agricultural zones may allow farming and livestock but not residential construction without a conditional use permit.
4. Conditional Use Permits and Variances
If your intended use isn’t automatically allowed under the zoning rules, you may be able to apply for a conditional use permit or a zoning variance. This can be a helpful path if you're looking to build something unique or start a business on your property.
5. Long-Term Goals and Land Use
Think about your long-term goals when reviewing zoning laws. Do you want to live on the land full-time? Start a homestead? Open a small business? Make sure the zoning will support your future plans. If you're still looking for land, browse our properties for sale to find parcels that meet your needs—and check our financing options to make your purchase even more accessible.
6. Talk to a Land Specialist
Understanding zoning laws can be tricky, especially if you're new to land ownership. At Mountains West Ranches, we’re here to help. Visit our financing page for details on payment plans or contact us directly for more information!
Final Thoughts
Zoning laws are one of the most important parts of buying land in Utah. By understanding how your land is zoned and what you’re allowed to do with it, you can avoid surprises and make confident decisions. Browse our available properties, explore financing options, or contact us today to get started on your land ownership journey.