How to Check if Utah Land Has Water Rights or Utilities
Buying land in Utah is exciting, but one of the most important steps before you purchase is checking whether the property has water rights or utilities. These factors can greatly impact how you use the land, whether you plan to build a home, farm, or simply camp on it.
If you are new to land buying, this process can feel confusing. Here is a clear guide to help you understand how to check for water rights and utilities on any Utah property.
Why Water Rights and Utilities Matter
Water Rights: In Utah, having water rights means you have legal permission to use water for a specific purpose, such as residential, irrigation, or livestock. Without them, drilling a well may not be possible unless you purchase rights separately.
Utilities: Access to power, gas, and sewer can make developing land much easier. If these are not available, you may need alternatives like solar panels, septic systems, or hauling water.
Both water rights and utilities affect the value of the property and the cost of future development, so it is crucial to confirm them before buying.
How to Check if Utah Land Has Water Rights
Ask the Seller Directly- Always start by asking the seller if water rights are included with the property. If they are, make sure this is clearly written into the purchase contract.
Search the Utah Division of Water Rights Database- Utah maintains a public online database where you can search by property location or water right number. This will show whether a parcel has active, valid, and transferable rights.
Check With a Title Company- When you order a title search, the report will often include information on any existing water rights tied to the land.
Consult a Local Water Specialist- Especially in counties like Duchesne, Uintah, and Wasatch, specialists can confirm if drilling a well is possible and whether water rights need to be purchased.
How to Check if Utah Land Has Utilities
Look for Power Poles or Lines- Drive by the property and look for visible power poles. If they are nearby, contact the local electric company to confirm whether service can be extended to the lot.
Contact the County Planning Department- County offices can tell you whether sewer, natural gas, or public water lines run near the property.
Ask Neighbors or Nearby Landowners- Neighbors are often the best resource to find out if the area has power, water, or gas.
Check Property Listings Carefully- Some land listings will note whether utilities are on-site, nearby, or not available at all. Always verify this information with the seller.
Consider Alternative- If utilities are not available, you can explore off-grid options such as solar power, propane, septic tanks, and hauling water.
Why This Matters in Utah
In some rural parts of Utah, many properties do not come with water rights or utilities. This is not always a negative, since off-grid living is appealing to many buyers, but it is something to plan for ahead of time. Properties with water rights or existing utilities often sell at a premium, while those without may be more affordable but require creative solutions.
Final Thoughts
Before buying Utah land, always take time to research water rights and utilities. These two factors can make a big difference in how you use your property, how much you spend on improvements, and how quickly you can build.
Looking for land in Utah? We can help you find properties with or without utilities depending on your goals. Browse our listings today and schedule a tour to learn more.