Overview
In Utah, the moderate income housing element is a required component of a municipality’s general plan pursuant to §10-20-403 of Utah State Code (as amended). This element is intended to provide a realistic opportunity for municipalities to address the need for additional moderate income housing through long-range planning and implementation strategies.
As discussed in General Plan: Overview, state law requires the moderate income housing element to:
- Provide a realistic opportunity to meet the need for additional moderate income housing within the municipality during the next five (5) years.
- For a town, include a recommendation to implement three (3) or more moderate income housing strategies identified in state law.
- For a specified municipality, include recommendations to implement applicable moderate income housing strategies and include an implementation plan outlining how those strategies will be carried out.
Note: A “specified municipality” is defined in Utah Code §10-21-101 and is subject to additional moderate income housing planning and reporting requirements.
Housing availability has become one of the most significant challenges facing communities throughout Utah. Rapid population growth, increasing housing costs, limited housing supply, and changing demographics have created challenges for many residents seeking housing that is affordable relative to their income.
The moderate income housing element provides communities with a structured opportunity to evaluate these challenges and identify practical strategies to address them. Rather than allowing housing issues to be addressed only through individual development proposals, the general plan process encourages communities to proactively consider housing needs as part of their long-term vision.
The moderate income housing element reinforces an important principle of land use planning: communities should plan intentionally for future needs rather than respond only after challenges arise.
A well-developed housing element helps elected officials, planning commissions, staff, developers, and residents better understand housing conditions and make informed decisions. It provides a foundation for future zoning amendments, development policies, and other actions that support the community’s long-term goals.
Ultimately, the moderate income housing element is not just about meeting a statutory requirement. Rather, it is about helping communities prepare for growth, maintain economic vitality, and provide opportunities for residents at different stages of life and income levels.
Content Contributors: Jones and DeMille Engineering, Inc, Hansen Planning Group, LLC / Rural Community Consultants
Special Note: This material was developed by civiclinQ for the Land Use Academy of Utah (LUAU). Funding for the development of this material was provided by through the Land Use Training Fund, which is administered by the Office of the Property Rights Ombudsman , utilizing a portion of the 1% surcharge on all building permits in the State of Utah.
The role of this organization in administering funding is primarily administrative and should not be viewed as legal advice. Always consult your legal representative when addressing land use activities.
Use the ‘Materials’ tab above to view related course materials, including printable pass-along card and PDF version of this online course.
