Building a custom home in Summit County is exciting, but before you break ground in Park City, or anywhere in the Wasatch Back, there’s a big box to check: permits. While “building permits” might not sound thrilling, they’re the golden ticket to making your dream home real. Here’s a step-by-step guide—practical, playful, and designed to help you move forward without surprises.
Permits aren’t just red tape—they protect your investment, ensure safety, and keep your project aligned with Summit County building codes. Skipping this step can mean costly delays, fines, or worse—being forced to redo work. Think of permits as your project’s permission slip.
Before Summit County even looks at your application, you’ll need complete construction documents. This usually includes:
If you’re building in Park City or Midway, local guidelines may ask for HOA approval letters as well.
Applications are typically filed with the Summit County Building Department. You’ll pay an application fee (based on project size) and submit everything electronically or in person.
You can also double-check the county website for current forms, since they update frequently.
Here’s where patience is key. The county reviews your plans for compliance with zoning, safety, and environmental codes. Depending on workload, the permit timeline in Wasatch and Summit Counties can take anywhere from two to six weeks.
During this stage, the county may request revisions. Don’t panic—it’s common. Work with your builder to make quick adjustments so approval doesn’t stall.
Once your plans are approved, you’ll be asked to pay the full permit fee. This fee is calculated by the size and scope of your project, so a custom mountain retreat in Park City will look different than a cozy remodel in Heber.
After your permit is issued, the county schedules inspections at key stages:
Each inspection must be passed before moving forward. Inspections keep your home safe and your project compliant.
Once you’ve passed the last inspection, you’ll receive a certificate of occupancy—official proof that your home is safe, legal, and ready for move-in.
Getting a building permit in Summit County, Utah doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right builder and a clear roadmap, it’s simply one more step on the way to your dream home. Whether you’re breaking ground in Park City or planning a remodel in Wasatch County, following these steps will keep your project on track.
Ready to start building? Our team at West Fork Construction knows the permit process inside and out. Let’s turn paperwork into progress and get you one step closer to your forever home.