How to Build a Custom Home in Utah: A Step-by-Step Guide from a Local Architect

If you’re dreaming of building a new house in Utah, you’re not alone. From the Wasatch Front to the red rock cliffs of southern Utah, our state offers an incredible range of landscapes and lifestyles. But starting the journey to a custom home can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time.

As a custom home architect in Utah, we’ve helped hundreds of clients design and build homes that reflect their vision, values, and lifestyle. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you understand the home building process in Utah from beginning to end.

1. Define Your Budget and Vision

Before you meet with an architect or builder, take time to define what you want and what you can realistically afford. Consider:

  • Your all-in budget (including land, design, permits, and construction)

  • The size and style of your future home

  • Must-have features (e.g., vaulted ceilings, energy efficiency, mountain views)

Working with a Utah-based architect early on can help you balance your vision with local construction costs and design options.

We’ve created a free guide to help you make those first key decisions and establish a realistic budget for your custom home. Click on the image to print (no email required).

2. Assemble Your Team

Building a house is a team effort. Your core team may include:

  • An architect  to design your home and guide you through zoning and permits

  • A structural engineer (often coordinated by your architect)

  • A general contractor or custom home builder

3. Find and Evaluate Your Lot

Utah’s topography varies wildly, so finding the right land is key. Look for:

  • Zoning and setbacks

  • Utility access (water, sewer/septic, gas, power)

  • Soil conditions (especially in areas like Eagle Mountain or Heber)

  • Views and solar orientation

4. Start the Design Process

This is where the fun begins. A typical Utah home design process includes:

  • Concept Design: Exploring layout options, architectural style, and site orientation

  • Schematic Design: Floor plans and exterior massing

  • Design Development: Refined details, material choices, lighting plans

  • Construction Documents: The full set of drawings for permitting and building

Your architect will also help ensure your design meets Utah building codes, local city requirements, and HOA guidelines if applicable.

We’ve outlined our proven process in a Project Planning Roadmap—a step-by-step guide we use to help clients turn their dream home into reality.

5. Submit for Permits

Each city in Utah has different timelines and requirements, but in general, you’ll need:

  • Architectural drawings

  • Structural engineering plans

  • Site plan and surveys

  • Energy code compliance reports (HERS rating or REScheck)

We regularly submit permit sets to cities like Lehi, Draper, Park City, and St. George and know what each jurisdiction expects.

6. Choose a Builder and Sign a Contract

Now’s the time to get bids or select a builder you trust. Your architect can help review bids and recommend contractors who align with your project goals.

Watch for:

  • Transparent pricing (fixed-price vs. cost-plus)

  • Clear scopes of work

  • Realistic timelines

7. Construction Begins

Your builder will take it from here, but your architect should remain involved. We offer construction observation to make sure the design is executed as intended.

Typical construction phases:

  • Excavation and foundation

  • Framing

  • Mechanical/electrical/plumbing (MEP) rough-ins

  • Insulation, drywall, finishes

  • Final punch list and walkthrough

8. Final Inspections and Move-In

Once construction is complete, you’ll need to pass final inspections and receive your Certificate of Occupancy (CO). This marks the official move-in approval.

We recommend creating a punch list during the final walkthrough to catch any last-minute fixes or finishes.

9. Maintain Your Investment

A well-designed home should serve you for decades—but it still needs upkeep. Schedule regular maintenance and ask your architect or builder about:

  • Home warranties

  • Seasonal maintenance guides

  • Long-term energy savings upgrades

Ready to Build Your Utah Dream Home?

Building a house in Utah is a big investment, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right team and a clear process, you can create a home that’s perfectly tailored to your lifestyle and location.

As a trusted residential architecture firm in Utah, we guide clients from land selection to move-in. If you’re thinking about building in areas like Salt Lake, Utah County, or beyond, we’d love to talk.

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