Utah Rent Caps, Ordinances & Tenant Rights Explained

Renters in Utah may wonder whether local cities have rent control, rent stabilization, or specific rules about rent increases. This guide provides clear information about local rent caps and ordinances across Utah cities, explains your rights, and details which official laws apply to tenants and landlords in Utah.

Utah Law: Rent Control and Rent Stabilization

As of 2024, Utah state law does not allow cities or counties to enact local rent control or rent cap ordinances. This means:

• There are no Utah cities (including Salt Lake City, Provo, Ogden, St. George, or Logan) with legal rent control or rent stabilization on residential units.
• Landlords can generally increase rent by any amount when a lease ends or is renewed, unless limited by a written rental agreement.

Utah's statewide policy is found in Utah Code § 17-53-222 (Prohibition on rent control) which blocks any local government from passing rent control or stabilization ordinances.^[1]

Are There Any Exceptions in Utah?

There are no exceptions for general rent caps, but federally subsidized housing (like Section 8 or Low-Income Housing Tax Credit properties) may have their own restricted rent increases. If you live in subsidized housing, contact your property manager for details.

Your Rights When Facing a Rent Increase in Utah

If your landlord wants to raise your rent, Utah law protects you in certain ways:

• You must receive at least 15 days' written notice before any rent increase for month-to-month tenancies.
• For fixed-term leases, the rent can only increase when the lease renews unless your lease says otherwise.

It's important to review your lease and track when you receive any rent increase notice to ensure your landlord follows the rules.

Which Forms and Agencies Matter?

• Utah 15-Day Written Notice of Rent Increase (no official form number):
  A landlord can use this notice to legally inform tenants about future rent increases. For example, if your rent is $900 and your landlord wants to raise it to $950, you should receive this written notice at least 15 days in advance. Download the form here.
• Utah Courts - Landlord-Tenant Section: Handles legal disputes such as improper rent increases or notices. Visit the official Utah Courts landlord-tenant page for forms, rights, and procedures.

Utah Residential Tenancy Legislation

Utah’s main landlord-tenant laws are found in the Utah Fit Premises Act, Utah Code Title 57, Chapter 22. This covers rights and responsibilities, including notice periods, basic habitability, repairs, and more.^[2]

FAQ: Utah Rent Control, Rent Caps, and Rental Rights

1. Does any Utah city have rent control or local rent caps?
   No. Utah law stops all cities and counties from passing rent control or rent cap ordinances.
2. How much notice is required for a rent increase in Utah?
   For month-to-month or periodic leases, landlords must provide at least 15 days' written notice before increasing the rent.
3. What should I do if I get a rent increase notice I think is illegal?
   Review your lease, compare the notice with state requirements, and contact Utah Courts Self-Help Center or a tenant resource for guidance.
4. Are there any protections against extreme rent increases in Utah?
   There are no statewide or citywide rent caps for regular rentals, but federally subsidized housing may set their own restrictions.
5. Who handles rental disputes in Utah?
   Rental disputes, including improper notices, are typically handled by local courts, specifically the Utah Courts Landlord-Tenant Section.

Key Takeaways for Utah Renters

• No Utah cities or counties can set local rent control or rent caps for regular rental housing.
• Your landlord must give proper written notice—usually 15 days before raising rent for periodic leases.
• When in doubt, consult the Utah Fit Premises Act and seek help from the Utah Courts or rental resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Utah Courts Landlord-Tenant Resources — How to file complaints, official forms, and basic tenant info.
• Utah Fit Premises Act (Statute) — Complete and current state law on residential rentals.
• Utah Housing Corporation — Low-income and subsidized housing details & renter programs.
• Utah Community Action - Legal Clinics — Free legal clinics and tenant support.

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1. [1] Utah Code § 17-53-222: Prohibition on rent control
2. [2] Utah Fit Premises Act, Title 57, Chapter 22

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