Zoning Secrets Every Investor in Salt Lake County Should Know
Introduction
When it comes to buying commercial property in Salt Lake County, most investors focus on price, location, and tenant potential. But there’s another factor that can make or break your deal: zoning laws. Whether you’re buying, selling, or redeveloping a property, zoning regulations control what you can (and can’t) do with the asset. Understanding these rules is one of the fastest ways to uncover hidden opportunities — or avoid costly mistakes.
Why Zoning Matters in Commercial Real Estate
Zoning dictates how land can be used, from retail, office, and industrial spaces to mixed-use developments. For investors, zoning has three critical impacts:
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Property Value – A change in zoning can significantly increase the resale value of your building or land.
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Tenant Mix & Income Potential – Certain zones allow a wider variety of tenants, which diversifies income streams.
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Redevelopment Opportunities – Understanding zoning can reveal chances to expand, repurpose, or even reposition a property entirely.
Key Zoning Secrets in Salt Lake County
1. Not All Commercial Zones Are Equal
Salt Lake County includes multiple cities (Salt Lake City, Murray, Sandy, Draper, West Jordan, and more), each with different zoning codes. Two properties sitting across the street from each other may have completely different permitted uses. Smart investors compare city zoning ordinances before making offers.
2. Mixed-Use Zones Are a Goldmine
Most, if not all municipalities in Utah are pushing for walkable, mixed-use developments to support population growth. If you find a property zoned for both residential and commercial, you may be able to add housing units, create live/work spaces, or attract higher-value tenants.
Pro Tip: Watch areas near TRAX stations and downtown cores — they’re often targeted for zoning updates.
3. Zoning Variances Can Unlock Hidden Value
Many investors avoid properties that don’t perfectly fit their business plan. But zoning boards often grant variances or conditional use permits for creative proposals. A simple application could transform a restricted-use property into a high-demand asset.
Example: Turning a warehouse zoned light industrial into a trendy brewery with community space.
4. Parking Ratios Can Make or Break a Deal
Salt Lake County cities have different parking requirements for offices, retail, and restaurants. A property with insufficient parking may struggle to attract tenants — unless the city is willing to approve a parking variance or allow shared parking agreements.
5. Future Zoning Changes = Investment Opportunity
Cities like South Salt Lake, West Valley, and Draper are actively updating zoning maps to encourage development. Investors who anticipate these changes can buy ahead of the curve and benefit when zoning shifts in their favor.
How Investors Can Stay Ahead
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Review City Codes: Each municipality posts zoning maps and codes online.
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Work With Local Experts: Partner with a Salt Lake commercial real estate consultant to interpret zoning and spot opportunities.
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Monitor City Council Agendas: Rezoning proposals are often previewed months before changes take effect.
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Think Creatively: Look beyond current use — zoning flexibility can unlock higher rents and appreciation.
Final Takeaway
Zoning isn’t just red tape — it’s a powerful tool that can shape your investment returns. By understanding Salt Lake County’s zoning secrets, you can spot undervalued assets, reposition properties for greater income, and get ahead of the market.
With my experience working for Salt Lake City, Corp. I am very familiar with the various processes involved with land use in Salt Lake City as well as critical contacts in the Planning and Zoning Division. Are you looking to buy or sell commercial property in Salt Lake County and want to make sure zoning works in your favor? Please reach out to me at www.danripcre.com for local expertise, insights, and strategies to maximize your investment.
