Easement in Utah
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Utah requires easements to be in writing and recorded to bind successors, with particular attention to utility easement rights.
How Utah treats Easement
Utah law requires easements to be created by written instrument and recorded in the county recorder's office to be enforceable against subsequent owners. The state recognizes easements by necessity, prescription (through twenty years of use), and by estoppel. Utah has specific statutory provisions governing utility easements, allowing utility companies to access and maintain infrastructure on private land. Courts interpret easement language according to the parties' intent and the circumstances at the time of creation.
The general definition of Easement
The right to use someone else's land for a specific purpose, like crossing it or running utilities.
An easement gives one person or entity the legal right to use another person's property in a limited way. For example, a utility company might have an easement to run electric lines under your yard, or a neighbor might have an easement to cross your land to reach their property. The property owner still owns the land but cannot prevent the easement holder from exercising their right.
Read the full Easement 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.