Frequently Asked Questions

What is cohousing?
Cohousing is a deliberately created neighborhood intended for a sense of community.
In general, cohousing communities are typified physically by
and socially by

For more, including FAQ about cohousing, see What Is Cohousing? and Related Links.

Who runs the community?
We are self-managed. We don't have a formal leader. We have an elected Management Committee who is in charge of making sure the community's bills get paid, its taxes filed, the budget is balanced, and so on. Minor decisions are delegated to committees. Important decisions are made by the full community using consensus decision-making.
What sort of people live at Wasatch Commons?
We have families with children, singles, couples, and empty-nesters. Ages range from infant to elderly and occupations from professional to blue collar.
What expenses are there to live in the community?
The community assesses a monthly condominium association fee that varies by unit, averaging around $300. Residents are responsible for their mortgage or rent, property taxes, utilities, condo insurance, and all personal expenses.
What other requirements are there?
Residents are expected to do a minimum of two hours work a month on community upkeep; attend monthly community meetings; join a community committee; do work team chores two months of the year; volunteer for other community work; and abide by all community agreements. Attendance at meals or community celebrations is optional but encouraged.
Is there someplace I can garden?
8Each resident is in charge of caring for the area immediately around their unit, and we have community vegetable gardens.
Do you allow pets?
Yes. City ordinances allow (per household) two dogs and three cats. Dogs and cats must be registered; there is no fee to register neutered animals. A dog is required to be under the owner's direct control when outside. The owner is responsible for cleaning up after the dog. We encourage use of dog leashes and tethers. Outdoor cats should be belled. Ferrets are not legal in Salt Lake City.
What about other animals?
City ordinances allow chickens and bees.
I hear Utah is awfully conservative. Is that true?
Utah is; Salt Lake is not. Utah as a whole is a little more than 50% Republican. Salt Lake breaks the other direction, at slightly more than 50% Democratic.
What is the procedure to become a resident?
We don't choose new residents; new residents choose us. Would-be residents purchase or rent a unit. We urge people thinking about joining our community to attend several meals and meetings, meet residents, familiarize themselves with our community agreements, and spend some time asking questions before making any commitment.

2019