Utah § 73-29-202 - Public right to float on public waters.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 73-29-202 — Public right to float on public waters., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 73-29-202. Public right to float on public waters.

73-29-202.  Public right to float on public waters.
(1) There is a public right to float on public water that has sufficient width, depth, and flow to allow free passage of the chosen vessel at the time of floating.
(2) Subsection (1) includes the right to:
(a) incidentally touch private property as required for safe passage and continued movement;
(b) portage around a dangerous obstruction in the water, if portage is made in a manner that is:
(i) most direct;
(ii) least invasive; and
(iii) closest to the water; and
(c) fish while floating.
(3) A person exercising the right that this section recognizes:
(a) shall enter and exit the water at a point on public property or private property with permission of the owner; and
(b) may not stop on private property.
(4)
(a) The right this section recognizes does not prevent the establishment of broader public recreational access in accordance with this chapter.
(b) Notwithstanding Subsection (4)(a), the right this section recognizes does not establish broader public recreational access.


Amended by Chapter 340, 2011 General Session

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 73-29-202

What does Utah Code § 73-29-202 cover?

Section 73-29-202 ("Public right to float on public waters.") 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 § 73-29-202?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 73-29-202" (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 § 73-29-202 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.