Utah Statewide Rule

Utah State Water Use and Drought Restrictions

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Utah (2026)

Utah water rights are administered by the State Engineer under prior appropriation. During declared droughts, the Governor and Division of Water Resources may impose statewide conservation measures, while secondary water suppliers must meter connections under recent legislation requiring reduced outdoor use.

Key Facts

Governing Title: Utah Code Title 73
Secondary Meter Deadline: 2030
Doctrine: Prior appropriation
Drought Authority: Governor and DWRe

Source: Utah State Legislature

Full Breakdown

Utah Code Title 73 governs water rights and use, with the State Engineer holding exclusive jurisdiction over appropriation. House Bill 242 (2022) requires secondary (non-potable) water suppliers to install meters on residential connections by 2030, enabling enforcement of conservation tiers. The Governor may declare a state of drought emergency under Title 53, Chapter 2a, triggering watering schedules and bans on non-essential use. Local water districts implement day-of-week irrigation rules consistent with state guidance from the Division of Water Resources. Wasting water onto pavement or during precipitation is broadly prohibited.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties from water suppliers, fines up to $500, service disconnection for repeat violations, and loss of water right for non-use under beneficial use doctrine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Utah have statewide watering restrictions?

Yes. The Division of Water Resources publishes a weekly lawn watering guide, and during declared droughts, mandatory restrictions apply. Local suppliers enforce specific day-of-week schedules consistent with state guidance.

Are secondary water meters required in Utah?

Yes. Under HB 242 (2022), secondary water suppliers must meter all residential connections by 2030, with state cost-share funding available to support installation and conservation billing tiers.

Can I be fined for watering during rain?

Yes. Most Utah water providers prohibit irrigation during measurable precipitation, and violators may be fined under local utility ordinances aligned with state conservation policy.

Sources

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Utah State Water Use and Drought Restrictions

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Utah (2026)

Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Utah have statewide watering restrictions?

Are secondary water meters required in Utah?

Yes. Under HB 242 (2022), secondary water suppliers must meter all residential connections by 2030, with state cost-share funding available to support installation and conservation billing tiers.

Can I be fined for watering during rain?

Yes. Most Utah water providers prohibit irrigation during measurable precipitation, and violators may be fined under local utility ordinances aligned with state conservation policy.