The zoning code sets the city’s rules on how land can be used — what can and can’t be done on a property. –> 21A

• The zoning code is the rulebook that helps the City grow in a safe, organized, and fair way while protecting the character of your neighborhoods.

• Different zones allow or prohibit different uses.

• Most enforcement cases come from this part of the code.

• Common violations include open outdoor storage and debris, inoperable vehicles on a property, parking on non paved surfaces, not maintaining landscaping, operating short-term rentals, and creating unpermitted dwelling units.

• Short Term Rentals are prohibited in all residential zones.

The housing code sets the city’s rules that landlords are required to follow. –> 18.50

• All rental dwellings must be licensed.

• Salt Lake City requires a multi-unit inspection every four years for buildings with three or more units.

• For Single Family/Duplexes, landlords can self-certify.

• The city can enforce these rules on any rental property.

• Common violations include missing or non-functioning smoke alarms, lack of GFCI-protected outlets, broken windows, exit/escape issues, and plumbing/mechanical systems not meeting code standards.

The weeds code sets the city’s rules for controlling weeds/overgrown vegetation. –> 9.16

• Weeds are defined as any vegetation that could become a fire hazard when dry, or that is otherwise harmful, a nuisance, or dangerous, as determined by the City.

• Property owners must keep their yards, park strips, and vacant lots maintained.

• Weeds and grass cannot exceed six inches in height, and invasive or harmful plants such as puncturevine, poison ivy, and bindweed must be removed regardless of height.

• If weeds are not cut and cleared after proper notice, the City’s contractor will do the work.

The snow removal code sets the city’s rules for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks bordering the property. –> 14.20

• Salt Lake City requires property owners to remove snow and ice from their whole sidewalk within 24 hours after a storm.

• A path at least 42 inches wide must be cleared. If the sidewalk is narrower than 42 inches, the entire width must be cleared.

• This applies to all properties in the city.

• The National Weather Service is used to determine when snowfall or ice accumulation has ended.

The vacant and boarded buildings code sets the city’s rules for maintaining, securing and registering such buildings. –> 18.48

• If a building is not properly secured — lacking intact windows, doors, or functioning locks — it must be boarded and registered with the City unless those issues are corrected within 10 days of Notice.

• If property remains unsecure after proper notice, the City’s contractor will board and secure the building.

• Registration fees for a boarded building are required to be paid yearly.

• The fee amounts and registration form can be found here.

• Secured but vacant buildings are monitored by the City until they are reoccupied to ensure they remain protected against entry.