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Site Plans vs. Full Construction Plans: What's the Difference?
June 5, 2026 6 min read
The Quick Distinction
A site plan shows where your home sits on the property. A full construction plan set shows how to build the home itself. Most Utah building departments require both for a complete permit submission.
What a Site Plan Includes
A residential site plan typically shows:
- Property boundaries and dimensions
- Existing and proposed structures
- Setbacks from property lines
- Driveways and access
- Utility connections (water, sewer, power, gas)
- Grading and drainage direction
- Erosion control measures (SWPPP)
- North arrow and scale
What a Full Construction Plan Set Includes
A complete plan set for a custom home includes:
Architectural Plans
- Floor plans (all levels)
- Exterior elevations (all sides)
- Interior elevations (kitchens, baths)
- Door and window schedules
- Roof plan
Structural Plans
- Foundation plan and details
- Framing plans
- Beam and column schedules
- Lateral design (for seismic/wind)
Civil Plans
- Site plan (as above)
- Grading and drainage plan
- Utility plan
- SWPPP (erosion control)
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (MEP)
- HVAC layout and load calculations
- Electrical plan and panel schedule
- Plumbing layout and riser diagrams
Compliance Documents
- RESCheck (energy code compliance)
- Manual S & J (HVAC sizing — required in Utah)
- Structural calculations
Which Do You Need?
You Need a Site Plan If:
- You're applying for a building permit
- You're planning a septic system
- You need a grading permit
- Your HOA requires plan approval
You Need a Full Plan Set If:
- You're building a new home
- You're adding significant square footage
- You're doing a major remodel
- Your jurisdiction requires engineered plans
Cost Comparison
- Site plan only: $1,500–$4,000
- Full construction plan set: $8,000–$25,000+ (depending on home size and complexity)
Pro Tip
Start with a site plan. It's required first in most jurisdictions, and the process of creating it often reveals site constraints that affect your home design — before you've invested in full architectural plans.
