Utah § 73-3-5.5 - Temporary applications to appropriate water -- Approval by engineer -- Expiration -- Proof of appropriation not required.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 73-3-5.5 — Temporary applications to appropriate water -- Approval by engineer -- Expiration -- Proof of appropriation not required., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 73-3-5.5. Temporary applications to appropriate water -- Approval by engineer -- Expiration -- Proof of appropriation not required.

Effective 5/7/2025
73-3-5.5.  Temporary applications to appropriate water -- Approval by engineer -- Expiration -- Proof of appropriation not required.
(1)The state engineer may issue temporary applications to appropriate water for beneficial purposes.
(2)The provisions of this chapter governing regular applications to appropriate water shall apply to temporary applications with the following exceptions:
(a)
(i)The state engineer shall undertake a thorough investigation of the proposed appropriation, and if the temporary application complies with the provisions of Section 73-3-8, may make an order approving the application.
(ii)If the state engineer finds that the appropriation sought might impair other rights, before approving the application, the state engineer shall give notice of the application to all persons whose rights may be affected by the temporary appropriations.
(b)The state engineer may issue a temporary application for a period of time not exceeding one year.
(c)
(i)The state engineer, in the approval of a temporary application, may make approval subject to whatever conditions and provisions the state engineer considers necessary to fully protect prior existing rights.
(ii)If the state engineer determines that it is necessary to have a water commissioner distribute the water under a temporary application for the protection of other vested rights, the state engineer may assess the distribution costs against the holder of the temporary application.
(d)
(i)A temporary application does not vest in its holder a permanent vested right to the use of water.
(ii)A temporary application automatically expires and is cancelled according to its terms.
(e)Proof of appropriation otherwise required under this chapter is not required for temporary applications.


Amended by Chapter 302, 2025 General Session

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 73-3-5.5

What does Utah Code § 73-3-5.5 cover?

Section 73-3-5.5 ("Temporary applications to appropriate water -- Approval by engineer -- Expiration -- Proof of appropriation not required.") 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 § 73-3-5.5?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 73-3-5.5" (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 § 73-3-5.5 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.

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