ADU, Duplex Conversion, and Off-Street Parking Rules for Landlords in Salt Lake City, Utah

Introduction

In Salt Lake City, Utah, landlords must navigate various zoning and lease requirements when converting their properties into ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) or duplexes. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the rules and regulations applicable to landlords in Salt Lake City, ensuring compliance with local laws.

Permitting, Zoning, or Statutory Basis

Zoning Regulations

Salt Lake City’s zoning regulations are governed by the Salt Lake City Zoning Ordinance (SLCZO). According to SLCZO, ADUs are permitted in certain districts, including residential districts. Landlords must ensure that their property is zoned for ADU conversions and obtain the necessary permits before proceeding.

Key Points:

• Residential Districts: ADUs are permitted in residential districts.
• Approval Board Review: Landlords must submit their conversion plans to the Salt Lake City Planning Commission for approval.

Reference:

• Salt Lake City Zoning Ordinance

Permits and Approvals

To convert a property into an ADU or duplex, landlords must obtain specific permits from the Salt Lake City Planning Commission. The process involves submitting detailed plans and adhering to certain requirements.

Key Points:

• Application Requirements: Landlords must provide detailed plans, including floor plans and elevations.
• Approval Timeline: The Planning Commission typically reviews applications within 30 days.

Reference:

• Salt Lake City Planning Commission

Lease Clauses, Notice Periods, and Timing Requirements

Lease Agreements

Landlords must include specific clauses in their lease agreements when renting an ADU or duplex. These clauses should address terms such as rent, maintenance responsibilities, and eviction procedures.

Key Points:

• Rent Clauses: Leases must specify the rent amount and payment terms.
• Maintenance Responsibilities: Landlords should outline who is responsible for maintenance of the ADU or duplex.

Reference:

• Lease Agreement Template

Notice Periods

Landlords must provide proper notice periods for various actions, such as eviction or lease termination. The length of these notice periods is typically specified in the lease agreement.

Key Points:

• Eviction Notice: Landlords must give tenants a minimum of 30 days’ notice before eviction.
• Lease Termination Notice: Landlords must provide tenants with a minimum of 60 days’ notice before terminating a lease.

Reference:

• Eviction Notice Template

Timing Requirements

Landlords must adhere to specific timing requirements when converting their properties into ADUs or duplexes. These requirements include obtaining necessary permits and adhering to the approval process.

Key Points:

• Permit Timeline: Landlords must obtain permits within 30 days of submitting their application.
• Conversion Timeline: The conversion process must be completed within 120 days of obtaining the necessary permits.

Reference:

• Salt Lake City Planning Commission

Defensible Record-Keeping & Compliance Checklist

To ensure compliance with Salt Lake City’s zoning and lease requirements, landlords must maintain detailed records of all transactions and approvals. The following checklist provides a comprehensive guide to defensible record-keeping:

1. Zoning Compliance:

   • Verify that your property is zoned for ADU conversions.
   • Obtain necessary permits from the Salt Lake City Planning Commission.

2. Lease Agreements:

   • Ensure that your lease agreements include all required clauses.
   • Maintain copies of signed lease agreements for at least seven years.

3. Notice Periods:

   • Provide proper notice periods for eviction or lease termination.
   • Maintain records of all notices sent to tenants.

4. Timing Requirements:

   • Adhere to the approval and conversion timelines.
   • Maintain records of all approvals and completed conversions.

Reference:

• Salt Lake City Zoning Ordinance
• Lease Agreement Template

Conclusion

Landlords in Salt Lake City must adhere to specific zoning, lease, and record-keeping rules when converting their properties into ADUs or duplexes. By following the guidelines provided in this guide, landlords can ensure compliance with local laws and avoid potential legal issues.