Adverse Possession in Utah
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Utah requires 7 years of open, exclusive, and continuous possession without the owner's permission.
How Utah treats Adverse Possession
An adverse possessor must occupy the land openly and visibly for 7 consecutive years, excluding the owner from use and control. The possession must be actual—meaning the possessor uses the land in a way a reasonable owner would—and cannot be hidden or secret. Paying property taxes during the 7-year period strengthens the claim but is not mandatory. Utah courts examine whether the possessor's conduct demonstrates intent to claim ownership and whether the true owner had actual or constructive notice of the occupation.
The general definition of Adverse Possession
Gaining legal ownership of land by occupying it openly and continuously for a set period.
If someone uses another person's land openly, without permission, and continuously for many years (typically 7–21 years depending on the state), they may eventually become the legal owner. The original owner must not have stopped them during that time. This doctrine rewards people who improve and maintain land while punishing owners who abandon or ignore their property.
Read the full Adverse Possession entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Utah.