Recurring nuisance properties ordinance
Title 11 changes creating an administrative process against owners who fail to curb persistent nuisance activity on their properties, mainly commercial. Adopted March 24 as Ordinance 13 of 2026.
- Where it stands
- Approved
- Type
- Code change
- Applicant
- Salt Lake City
Every hearing and vote
February 17, 2026 · City Council
Consent agenda
Approved · 7-0
The council approved the consent agenda: setting Mar. 10 hearings on the Rio Grande rezone, the fence and hedge text amendment, the 527-539 South 400 East rezone and the recurring nuisance properties ordinance; Grant Holding Account Items (Batch No. 2); appointing Anna Sullivan to the Planning Commission; and reappointing Matthew Coles to the Arts Council.
February 17, 2026 · City Council work session
Recurring nuisance properties ordinance follow-up
Discussed
Arturo Garcia presented a revised 'responsible owner' ordinance that removed a previously considered alcohol consumption provision and now sets an administrative process for identifying and enforcing against nuisances, with safeguards against misuse. Staff said it applies mainly to business properties but could apply to residential properties involving litter or illegal activity, that owners can cure problems through an abatement plan, and that other cities use similar processes. Council Member Chris Wharton asked for a list of defined nuisances.
- Timeline: hearing Mar. 10; tentative action Mar. 24
March 10, 2026 · City Council
Recurring nuisance properties ordinance
Continued · 7-0
Two speakers opposed the ordinance, one warning it could be used against University of Utah students and another saying issues belong between neighbors; others supported it to address loud late-night gatherings near the university. Council Member Lopez Chavez said Ordinance 49 of 2025 already defined unruly gatherings and owner liability, and that this ordinance removed the 2 a.m. alcohol restriction and clarified business liability, with noise handled elsewhere. Council Member Puy said it targets commercial businesses. Action was deferred.
- Amends Title 11 of the city code
March 24, 2026 · City Council
Recurring nuisance properties ordinance
Approved · 7-0
The council adopted Ordinance 13 of 2026 amending Title 11 on nuisance private property. Council Member Eva Lopez Chavez thanked Council Members Puy and Wharton and former Council Member Mano for crafting a policy that supports businesses while closing loopholes.