Whether you’re planning to build your dream home, open a new business location, or expand an existing building, one question comes up early: Do I need to hire an architect?

As a Utah-based architecture and engineering firm, we hear this question all the time — from homeowners, business owners, and even experienced developers. The short answer? It depends on what you’re building, where you’re building it, and how involved your project will be.

This guide will help you understand when you legally need an architect in Utah, when it’s highly recommended, and how architects can make your project smoother from start to finish.

Residential Projects: When Is an Architect Required in Utah?

If you’re building a custom home in Utah, hiring an architect isn’t always legally required — but it’s usually a smart move.

You’ll likely need an architect if:

• You’re designing a custom home from scratch

• Your city or county requires stamped architectural drawings for permitting

• You’re working with a difficult site (slope, setbacks, tight lots)

• You’re adding onto or significantly altering your home’s structure

Many cities along the Wasatch Front — including Salt Lake City, Provo, and Park City — require signed and stamped architectural drawings for new builds, large additions, and complex remodels. We’re familiar with most Utah municipalities and can help navigate local requirements.

Commercial Projects: Hiring an Architect Is Almost Always Required

In Utah, if you’re building a commercial, industrial, educational, religious, or multifamily structure, state law requires you to work with a licensed architect.

Common commercial projects that require an architect:

• Retail and office buildings

• Restaurants, breweries, and cafes

• Churches and religious facilities

• Apartment buildings and townhomes (over 4 units)

• Schools and medical clinics

• Manufacturing or industrial facilities

In addition to design, an architect is often needed to submit code-compliant, stamped construction drawings for commercial building permits. We also help coordinate engineering, fire protection, ADA compliance, and egress plans — all of which are required by Utah code.

Permitting Requirements in Utah: What to Know

Every city or county in Utah has its own building permit process, but the general flow looks like this:

1. Site plan and code review

2. Architectural drawings (often required to be sealed by a licensed Utah architect)

3. Structural engineering drawings

4. Energy compliance reports (REScheck or COMcheck)

5. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing coordination (MEP)

6. Submission to the city or county building department

Working with an architect ensures that your plans are complete, coordinated, and ready for permitting. This helps you avoid costly delays or rejections during review.

We’ve worked with dozens of municipalities throughout Utah and can help streamline the submittal process based on local expectations.

So, Who Needs an Architect in Utah?

Here’s a simple breakdown:

What Architects Actually Do (That Google Might Not Tell You)

• Turn your goals and ideas into code-compliant, buildable plans

• Navigate zoning laws and permitting requirements

• Coordinate with engineers and other consultants

• Review construction progress and respond to contractor questions

Need Help Figuring It Out?

Not every project requires a full architectural team — but most benefit from at least a consultation. If you’re planning to build, remodel, or develop in Utah, Iridium AE can help you figure out what you need and how to move forward with clarity.

We’re based in Salt Lake County and work on residential, commercial, and institutional projects across Utah. Whether you’re just getting started or deep into planning, we’ll meet you where you are.