Utah § 76-6-104.5 - Abandonment of a fire -- Penalties.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 76-6-104.5 — Abandonment of a fire -- Penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 76-6-104.5. Abandonment of a fire -- Penalties.

Effective 5/3/2023
76-6-104.5.  Abandonment of a fire -- Penalties.
(1) Terms defined in Sections 76-1-101.5 and 76-6-101 apply to this section.
(2) An actor commits abandonment of a fire if, under circumstances not amounting to the offense of arson, aggravated arson, or causing a catastrophe, the actor leaves a fire:
(a) without first completely extinguishing it; and
(b) with the intent to not return to the fire.
(3) A violation of Subsection (2):
(a) is a class C misdemeanor if there is no property damage;
(b) is a class B misdemeanor if property damage is less than $1,000 in value; and
(c) is a class A misdemeanor if property damage is or exceeds $1,000 in value.
(4) An actor does not commit a violation of Subsection (2) if the actor leaves a fire to report an uncontrolled fire.
(5) If a violation of Subsection (2) involves a wildland fire, the actor is also liable for suppression costs under Section 65A-3-4.
(6) A fire spreading or reigniting is prima facie evidence that the actor did not completely extinguish the fire as required by Subsection (2)(a).


Amended by Chapter 111, 2023 General Session

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 76-6-104.5

What does Utah Code § 76-6-104.5 cover?

Section 76-6-104.5 ("Abandonment of a fire -- 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 § 76-6-104.5?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 76-6-104.5" (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 § 76-6-104.5 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.

Sources & Verification

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