The property and receiving route determine the questions.
A drain entirely within a private yard, a public stormwater connection and excavation across a right-of-way can involve different requirements. Do not assume that one municipality's rule applies throughout Utah.
Start with the property address, proposed route and receiving location. Identify the city, county, utility or other authority that controls any public feature.
Ask about the actual scope.
- Is the work confined to private property?
- Does it cross an easement, sidewalk, roadway or public right-of-way?
- Will it connect or discharge to a public drainage system?
- Is the work within a regulated flood area or part of a larger development?
- Does an infiltration design fall under groundwater-protection requirements?
Utility locating is separate from permit approval.
Blue Stakes of Utah811 explains the notice and marking process. Follow the legal start time on the locate request and arrange any needed private-line locating. A permit does not identify every buried utility, and a utility mark is not permission for a receiving connection.
Infiltration needs its own review.
EPA describes stormwater infiltration designs that meet Class V well criteria and others that do not. The classification depends on the actual arrangement, not simply whether the project is called a dry well.
Ask the relevant authority about the design and site. Soil acceptance, groundwater, nearby structures and the water source remain technical decisions even when a permit is not required.
Keep the approval responsibilities in writing.
The estimate should identify who obtains permits, who coordinates utility and private-line locating and what inspections apply before work is covered. Ask which drawings or site information remain outstanding.
Use the city-specific resources on the service-area pages as a starting point. Confirm current requirements with the jurisdiction before construction; this guide is not a permit determination for your address.
Common questions
Does every backyard French drain require the same permit?
No statewide assumption is appropriate. Scope, location, receiving system and jurisdiction affect the requirements.
Does811 approval allow a storm-drain connection?
No. Utility locating and receiving-system approval are separate matters.
Can I use a neighbor's permit or installation as guidance?
It does not establish the requirements for your address and proposed work.