I can see you now, about to pull the trigger on a new backyard adventure. You’ve been eyeing up your dream greenhouse, seeing where it would fit in your yard, thinking about all the wonderful things that you will grow. . .
Then someone brings up the dreadful question: “do you need a permit?”
Permitting can be daunting, and if not that, annoying. Jumping through hoops and ladders with the city to build something that you’ve been dreaming of? Definitely a vibe killer.
Alas, hope is not lost! There is good news! Not all greenhouses need a permit! And even better news? If your dream growing space does need one, Monarch Greenhouse Solutions can do the work to obtain it for you. Saving you the hassle and headache while bringing that dream greenhouse to life.
In this article we’re going to discuss the general permitting requirements throughout Utah, and tell you some of the work arounds, with visual references.
When is a permit not required?
If the greenhouse that you are planning to build fits in these categories, you will not need a permit.
If it is:
- Under 200 square feet
- Does not have utility hookups (gas, electricity, water)
- Is less than 17 feet tall
- Does not need a concrete foundation.
These are some pretty easy work arounds, especially if you are looking for a hobby greenhouse, which is usually a smaller size. They typically are not used for year round growing, taking away the need for utility hook-ups as well.
To visualize a greenhouse that fits these standards, you can look at a space that is 10’ x 20’ rectangular or 14’ x 14’ square. BC Greenhouses has several size options and make it very easy to fit in this requirement.
Also Planta Greenhouses are a great option for strength and value in this size range. They are designed to withstand wind making a concrete foundation not necessary.
Concrete foundations are not always required for greenhouses or similar structures. Using wood or gravel are cheaper foundation options that work well for hobby size greenhouses.
Ways getting a permit will add value to your greenhouse
Getting a permit has many benefits. It will allow you to really customize your greenhouse whether through the size of the structure or adding systems that allow you to grow what you want.
The common backyard greenhouse is probably going to be 10’ x 20’or smaller, but if you are wanting something that isn’t common, getting a permit is necessary. With a design and a permit, you can get the structure you want without size restrictions.
It will also give you more options for heating and cooling systems. This is a must if you want to grow year round, especially in Utah’s climate. Running utilities changes your greenhouse from a beautiful effective potting shed into a powerful producing conservatory.
Another benefit could be the use of a concrete foundation. Concrete can add value to your property while making sure your greenhouse is anchored to the ground. Wood foundations are usable and can be effective, but they wear down quickly over the years. Using concrete if installed correctly will increase the lifespan of your investment.
Permitting process through Monarch Greenhouse Solutions
To make permitting easier, we offer to handle the permitting process for people that don’t want to deal with the hassle.
We will fill out the application and submit the required paperwork to the county. Usually a permit for a greenhouse will require a site plan, engineered drawings, and Utility hook up diagrams.
If you don’t already have these documents, we will help you get/make them. We like to work with our manufacturers to gather engineered drawings. This can be easy depending on the customization of your greenhouse.
Permitting fees will be included in our bid for the project.
Because we are a Utah based company, getting permits out of state can take more time because we have to be authorized to work in other states. That isn’t a problem, just something another hoop that we are willing to jump through to make your dream come to life.
What if I build without a permit?
If you choose to go ahead on a project that would require permitting without it, you are taking a risk. If the city or county finds out, you can be fined, ordered to stop the project until permits are acquired, or even forced to tear it down.
There are other ways that carrying on without a permit can come back to harm you as well, so it is best to play it safe. We always recommend getting permits for projects that would require them.
Final thoughts
Not getting a permit can definitely save you time and money. However, there is a limited degree of freedom that you will have in the size and capabilities of your greenhouse. Thus not getting a permit is a great option for hobby gardeners looking to extend their growing seasons.
Getting a permit can increase the life of your greenhouse and the value of your property. It allows you to really customize and design your growing space into something that isn’t a chore, it can be your place of peace.
If you’re ready to start growing and don’t want to deal with getting permits and installing your greenhouse, give us a call and we will happily take care of your project, from start to finish.
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