ADU rules in Provo

Detached ADUs (a detached accessory structure in the rear or side yard, or a unit within one) are an allowed ADU location, but ADU use itself is only permitted in listed residential zones and is prohibited in PRO zones, R2PD, and most RM/R16 through R110 areas; west of I-15 ADUs are permitted in nearly all residential areas except SDP-5 and R2PD.

Internal, over-garage, and addition ADUs are allowed in conjunction with a one-family detached dwelling, subject to the same zone eligibility: permitted use in RA, R1, R2, LDR, MDR, HDR, CMU, VLDR, RM, RC, PRO, and SDP 2-5 areas per 14.30.010(3), then carved back by 14.30.020 prohibitions (all PRO zones, R2PD, most RM/R16-R110 areas).

Chapter 14.30 sets no numeric maximum for any ADU type. The only size rules are for detached ADUs: the accessory structure must have a building footprint and height less than the main dwelling, with a 200 sq ft minimum floor area.

Either the main dwelling or the ADU must be occupied by an owner occupant (50 percent or more recorded ownership plus primary residence, per the 14.06.020 definition), or no ADU is permitted. A temporary absence exception (up to 3 years for job assignments, military, sabbatical, or care-facility placement) applies if the owner lived there at least 1 year first and applies before leaving. Primary residence must be re-established at every annual license renewal.

A one-family dwelling with an ADU must have at least four off-street parking spaces; two tandem (front to rear) spaces are permitted, front-yard driveway spaces count only under listed conditions, and spaces may never be fewer than the vehicles kept on the premises. Must also comply with Chapter 14.37.

ADU use in eligible residential zones is a permitted use; the former Special Use Permit section (14.30.040) was repealed by Ord 2025-60. Approval runs through an annually renewed rental dwelling license (staff-level, Development Services) plus building permits, with a recorded deed restriction.

Operating an ADU requires a rental dwelling license under Chapter 6.26, renewed annually, that automatically expires one year after approval or upon transfer of the property; a deed restriction running with the land must be recorded. ADU occupancy is limited to no more than three related or unrelated adults plus their minor children. Chapter 14.30 sets no minimum lease term.