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Utah

Navigating Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder Facility Licensing in Utah: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

You can’t start a compliant and successful mental health or substance use treatment program without first ensuring you are adhering to the state’s licensing requirements. Whether you’re seeking to open an outpatient facility (providing outpatient, intensive outpatient/ IOP, or partial hospitalization/ PHP) or a residential facility (detox/ withdrawal management, high intensity or low intensity residential) navigating Utah’s regulatory landscape can be complex and time-consuming.

At Arrow Consulting, we specialize in guiding providers through every stage of the licensing process – ensuring your facility meets all regulatory standards and is fully prepared to deliver high-quality, legally compliant care.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Licensed in Utah

  1. Decide what service you want to provide and which license you’ll need
    Decide whether your facility will provide mental health services or substance use disorder services. This decision determines the regulations you must follow and guides your application process.
  2. Review the regulations for the service you’ll provide
    Consult the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Office of Licensing to understand the current regulations and requirements for your chosen program type.

Note: While some states require a Certificate of Need (CON) or similar approval before licensing, Utah does not require a CON. You can move directly into the licensing process once you’ve reviewed the regulations and requirements for your program type. (Residential, Detox, PHP, IOP) requires CON approval before you submit your licensing application.

 

  

  1. Get your documents and processes in order
    Compile the documents required for your Utah application. You’ll definitely need:
  • Organizational formation documents
  • Staffing plans
  • Facility floor plans/ building documents 
  • Relevant policies and procedures
  1. Once you finalize your application, submit it to the state

Submit your licensing application to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Licensing:

  • Mental Health Facilities (Residential, PHP, IOP): DHHS, Office of Licensing
  • Substance Use Disorder Facilities (Detox, Residential, PHP, IOP): Submit DHHS, Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH), coordinated with the Office of Licensing
  • See below for more information on these agencies.
  1. Prepare for Inspection
    Depending on the service and level of care you decide, Utah will schedule an on-site inspection to ensure your facility complies with regulatory standards. Make sure your facility is in good shape and your leadership is prepared!
  2. Make any corrections and start providing services
    You may need to make some revisions to policies or other items as discussed with the state. Once you have completed your plan of correction, you will be issued your license and may commence providing services to your community.

 

Understanding Behavioral Health Facility Licensing Requirements in Utah

 

Licensing for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Facilities

Substance use disorder treatment facilities in Utah are licensed by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Office of Licensing, in coordination with the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH).

PHP and IOP for SUD:
PHP and IOP programs for substance use disorder treatment must provide structured, intensive services and comply with Utah requirements for:

  • Qualified staffing
  • Therapeutic programming
  • Patient care standards
  • Emergency preparedness

Detox and Residential Treatment:
Detox programs in Utah must be licensed by DHHS and must meet state standards for:

  • Medically supervised withdrawal management
  • On-site licensed professionals (e.g., physicians and nurses)
  • Patient safety and clinical oversight
  • Staffing qualifications
  • Facility operations and compliance with DHHS/DSAMH regulations

 

Licensing for Mental Health Facilities

Mental health facilities in Utah are licensed by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Office of Licensing, with oversight and support from the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH).

PHP and IOP for Mental Health:
Mental health PHP and IOP programs must meet state standards for:

  • Therapeutic services
  • Staffing qualifications
  • Patient safety
  • Quality care

Residential Treatment Facilities in Mental Health:

Facilities providing residential mental health services must be licensed by the DHHS and are required to meet state standards for:

  • 24/7 care in a structured environment
  • Therapeutic services
  • Staffing qualifications
  • Patient safety
  • Quality care



Let Arrow Consulting handle the entire process for you – ensuring a smooth, compliant, and efficient licensing experience.