Utah § 73-1-15 - Obstructing or change of water facilities -- Penalties.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 73-1-15 — Obstructing or change of water facilities -- Penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 73-1-15. Obstructing or change of water facilities -- Penalties.

Effective 5/12/2020
73-1-15.  Obstructing or change of water facilities -- Penalties.
(1)
(a) When a person has a right-of-way of an established type or title for a water facility, as defined in Section 73-1-14, it is unlawful for a person to place or maintain in place any obstruction, or change of the water flow by fence or otherwise, along, across, in, or to the water facility, except as where the water facility inflicts damage to private property, without first:
(i) receiving written permission for the change or obstruction and providing gates sufficient for the passage of the owner or owners of the water facility; or
(ii) complying with the requirements of Section 73-1-15.5.
(b) That the vested rights in the established water facility shall be protected against all encroachments.
(c) That indemnifying agreements may be entered as may be just and proper by governmental agencies.
(2) A person violating this section is guilty of a crime punishable under Section 73-2-27.
(3) A person who commits an act defined as a crime under this section is also liable for damages or other relief and costs in a civil action to a person injured by that act.
(4)
(a) A civil action under this section may be brought independent of a criminal action.
(b) Proof of the elements of a civil action under this section need only be made by a preponderance of the evidence.


Amended by Chapter 64, 2020 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 73-1-15

What does Utah Code § 73-1-15 cover?

Section 73-1-15 ("Obstructing or change of water facilities -- Penalties.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Utah § 73-1-15?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 73-1-15" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 73-1-15 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Utah.