What You Need to Know About Permitting a PEMB in Utah
Building a pre-engineered metal building (PEMB) in Utah is a smart move for developers and business owners — but like any structure, it starts with a permit. And in Utah, where jurisdictional requirements vary and timelines can impact your entire schedule, understanding the permitting process is crucial.
Whether you're constructing a warehouse, agricultural building, or commercial facility, here's what you need to know before breaking ground.
Every Municipality Is Different
There’s no universal permitting process in Utah. Each city and county has its own building department, review times, zoning restrictions, and required documentation.
Some areas — like Salt Lake City or Utah County — have well-established processes with online submittals and regular review cycles. Others, particularly rural counties, may still require in-person applications and longer wait times.
Before you start design work, check with the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) to understand:
Required submittals
Zoning restrictions
Plan review timelines
Whether agricultural exemptions apply
At A.D. Constructors, we help clients confirm these details early so the process doesn’t stall later.
You’ll Need a Full Permit Set
A common misconception is that PEMBs are simple enough to “skip” full engineering. Not true. To get a building permit in Utah, you’ll need stamped construction documents from licensed professionals — even for pre-engineered systems.
Your submittal typically includes:
Civil drawings (site layout, grading, utility plans)
Structural drawings (foundation and steel framing)
Architectural drawings (elevations, door/window schedules, etc.)
Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) plans if applicable
Energy compliance documentation (Utah follows IECC standards)
Most cities will not accept manufacturer-only PEMB drawings without integration into a full site plan.
Don’t Forget Site Plan Approval
In most Utah jurisdictions, your project must pass a site plan review before the building permit is issued. This can take several weeks and often involves coordination with multiple departments (planning, fire, engineering, public works).
Common site plan considerations:
Setbacks and height limits
Drainage and grading plans
Fire lane access and hydrant spacing
Parking and ADA compliance
Landscaping or lighting requirements
Failing to meet one of these requirements can trigger a resubmittal — which could delay your project weeks or more.
Some Agricultural Structures May Qualify for Permit Exemptions
Utah allows some exemptions for agricultural-use buildings on land zoned exclusively for farming or ranching. But exemptions are strict and often misunderstood.
To qualify, the structure must:
Be used strictly for ag purposes (e.g., hay, livestock, equipment storage)
Be located on property zoned for agricultural use
Not be open to the public or involve commercial activities
Even if your building is exempt from a full permit, it may still require:
Zoning approval
Utility coordination
Fire code compliance
Stormwater management
When in doubt, ask your local building department — or let your contractor confirm for you.
Plan Review Takes Time — Build It Into Your Schedule
In many Utah cities, plan review for commercial projects can take 3 to 6 weeks, and resubmittals may add more time. Some rural counties can be faster, but that’s not guaranteed — especially during the summer construction rush.
To stay on schedule:
Submit complete plans with all required documents
Use a contractor familiar with PEMB submittals
Respond to review comments promptly
Consider phased permitting (e.g., site work first) if time-sensitive
At A.D. Constructors, we coordinate directly with the local AHJ to reduce delays and keep projects moving.
Final Thoughts
Permitting a PEMB in Utah isn’t complicated — but it is detailed. A missed document or zoning misstep can push your project back by weeks. That’s why it’s essential to work with a contractor who understands both metal buildings and Utah’s permitting landscape.
From early site planning to final inspections, A.D. Constructors helps clients navigate the full process with clarity and confidence.