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Utah Statewide Rule

Utah Unlawful Detainer Eviction Process Standards

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Utah (2026)

Key Facts

Governing Statute
Utah Code 78B-6-801
Pay or Quit Notice
3 days
Month-to-Month Notice
15 days
Just Cause Required
No
Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Utah State Legislature

Summary

Utah does not require just-cause for eviction and uses a streamlined unlawful detainer process under Title 78B Chapter 6 Part 8. Landlords may terminate month-to-month tenancies with 15 days notice for any lawful reason, and three-day notices apply for nonpayment.

(b) having leased real property for an indefinite time with monthly or other periodic rent reserved: (i) continues in possession of the property in person or by subtenant after the end of any month or period, in cases where the owner, the owner's designated agent, or any successor in estate of the owner, 15 calendar days or more before the end of that month or period, has served notice requiring the tenant to quit the premises at the expiration of that month or period; or (ii) in cases of tenancies at will, remains in possession of the premises after the expiration of a notice of not less than five calendar days;

Source: Utah State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Utah Code Title 78B, Chapter 6, Part 8 governs unlawful detainer actions and establishes a uniform statewide eviction procedure. Landlords issue a three-day notice to pay or quit for nonpayment, a three-day notice to comply or vacate for lease violations, and a 15-day notice to terminate at-will or month-to-month tenancies. No just-cause is required for non-renewal of fixed-term leases. Once notice expires, landlords file unlawful detainer with priority court scheduling, and prevailing landlords receive treble damages on rent and attorney fees. Cities cannot impose just-cause requirements that conflict with this state procedure under general home-rule limitations.

Violations & Penalties

Self-help eviction (lockouts, utility shutoff) is prohibited under Utah Code 57-22-4.5 and exposes landlords to actual damages plus statutory penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Utah require just cause to evict tenants?
No. Utah landlords may terminate at-will or month-to-month tenancies with 15 days written notice for any lawful reason. No cause is required for non-renewal of expired fixed-term leases.
How fast can a Utah eviction proceed?
After a three-day pay-or-quit notice expires, landlords file unlawful detainer and may obtain possession within roughly 7 to 14 days due to statutory priority scheduling under Utah Code 78B-6-810.
What damages can a Utah landlord recover?
Under Utah Code 78B-6-811, prevailing landlords may recover treble damages on rent owed and reasonable attorney fees, in addition to court costs and possession of the premises.

Sources

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