Utah § 73-3-1 - Appropriation -- Manner of acquiring water rights.
Full text of Utah Utah Code § 73-3-1 — Appropriation -- Manner of acquiring water rights., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 73-3-1. Appropriation -- Manner of acquiring water rights.
73-3-1. Appropriation -- Manner of acquiring water rights.
| (1) | A person may acquire a right to the use of the unappropriated public waters in this state only as provided for in this title. |
| (2) | The appropriation of public waters in the state shall comply with the requirements of this title. |
| (3) | Except as provided in Subsection (7), a person obtaining, initiating the use of, or providing notice of intent to appropriate a water right shall comply with the requirements of this chapter. |
| (4) | An appropriation may be made only for a useful and beneficial purpose. |
| (5) | Between appropriators, the one first in time is first in rights. |
| (6) | A person may not acquire a right to the use of water either appropriated or unappropriated by adverse use or adverse possession. |
| (7) | Notwithstanding Section 73-3-2, a person may directly capture and store precipitation as provided in Section 73-3-1.5. |
Amended by Chapter 296, 2026 General Session
Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 73-3-1
What does Utah Code § 73-3-1 cover?
Section 73-3-1 ("Appropriation -- Manner of acquiring water rights.") 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 § 73-3-1?
A common citation format is "Utah Code § 73-3-1" (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 § 73-3-1 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.