Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, Orem, Utah faces unique permitting challenges. The city enforces strict permitting standards to ensure every project meets Utah’s building codes and Orem’s local regulations.
Whether you’re managing a multifamily project in Utah Valley, a commercial renovation downtown, or residential upgrades across the foothills, understanding Orem’s permitting process early helps you save time, prevent rework, and stay compliant.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Orem building permits, including what projects require them, how to apply, what it costs, and how to keep your approvals moving smoothly.
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What requires a building permit in Orem?
You’ll need an Orem building permit for nearly all construction, remodel, or repair projects that involve structural, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing changes. Here's a breakdown of work that typically requires permitting:
Interior:
- Heating/AC (HVAC) installations or replacements; water heaters; boilers
- Gas logs/gas lines; fireplaces (wood/pellet/gas)
- Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work
- Structural changes or repairs
- Basement finishes, room finishes, remodels, moving walls/windows/doors
- Window/door replacements when increasing size
Exterior:
- Porch/patio covers and awnings
- Decks over 30 in. above grade (with or without a roof)
- Storage sheds >200 sq ft on one-/two-family lots; >120 sq ft on commercial or multifamily (4+ units)
- Masonry or concrete fences
- Pools, hot tubs, spas
- Room additions: detached or attached garages, patio enclosures
- Solar panels
- Plumbing (new or replacing lines), electrical, siding, and reroofing
- Window/door replacements when changing size
- Retaining walls >4 ft measured from the bottom of the footing
What doesn’t require a building permit in Orem?
Orem does not require permits for minor cosmetic or maintenance work, such as:
- General landscaping
- Concrete sidewalks on private property; concrete porches/patios without roofs
- Wood decks <30 in. above grade (no roof)
- Painting, minor roof repairs, fence repairs
- Floor coverings; wallpapering; adding insulation
- Replacing plumbing fixtures (like-for-like)
- Replacing cabinets/countertops
- Changing light fixtures/switches/outlets (like-for-like)
- One-story detached sheds <200 sq ft (1–2 family lots); <120 sq ft (commercial or multifamily); site plan approval may still be needed on commercial/multifamily
- Retaining walls <4 ft (measured from bottom of footing)
- Prefabricated pools <24 in. deep
To learn more about what projects don't require a building permit, visit the “When do I need a building permit?” page.
Orem building permit cost
Unfortunately, Orem doesn’t make its building permit fees available online. It’s also unclear how the city charges permit fees — whether based on construction value or per a flat fee schedule.
How to get a building permit in Orem, UT
Step 1: Prepare plans & documents
Use the City’s Forms & Applications page to find your specific checklist with the required documents. Typical items include a completed application, stamped construction drawings (PDF), site plan/survey, energy-code forms when required, and a clear scope/valuation.
Step 2: Submit your Orem city building permit application (online portal)
Orem requires a full online submission. Create an account and apply through the city’s permitting system; from there, you can upload documents and manage your application. (Fence permits are handled separately unless it involves masonry/ a retaining wall.)
If you need help with your application, call 801-229-7000 or email help@orem.gov.
Step 3: Plan review
Once submitted, your application will be processed within the corresponding departments. You’ll be notified in the portal if corrections are needed.
Step 4: Permit issuance & fees
After all reviews are approved, the City will issue the permit and provide instructions to pay the fees (handled through the City’s systems/links from your portal account).
Step 5: Inspections
You must pass the inspections listed on your permit/inspection card. Schedule and view inspections in the portal; you can also call 801-229-7198 for inspection scheduling/questions.
Orem permitting resources
- City of Orem Development Services
- Phone: 801-229-7000
- Email: help@orem.gov
- Address: 56 N State St, Orem, UT 84057
- Office Hours: Mon–Fri, 8 AM – 5 PM
- When do I need a building permit?
- City’s Forms & Applications
- Consolidated fee schedule
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