The Land Entitlement Process in Utah

Utah is developer-friendly but each city has its own zoning ordinances and review procedures.

LUDMA Framework

Municipal and County Land Use Acts set minimum standards. Cities have strong home-rule authority.

Conditional Uses

LUDMA 10-9a-507: conditional uses SHALL be approved if reasonable conditions can mitigate impacts. Mandatory, not discretionary.

Timelines by City

Salt Lake City: 6-12 months. Lehi: 3-6 months. St. George: 4-8 months. Provo: 4-8 months.

Impact Fees

Total $6,000-$20,000 per unit. Water, sewer, transportation, parks, fire/police.

Common Pitfalls

Annexation assumptions, utility infrastructure costs, water rights, 10-day appeal window.