Bill > HB0445

This bill amends existing Utah law to clarify and modify how counties can acquire and manage property, particularly when that property is located in another county. Key provisions include requiring a county to obtain express permission from the county where the property is located before purchasing, exchanging, or leasing real property outside its own boundaries, unless it's part of a joint project under an interlocal cooperation agreement. The bill also introduces new rules for taxing "extraterritorial county property" (property owned by a county but located outside its geographic boundaries), making it subject to property taxation starting in 2027 for property acquired after May 6, 2026, and in 2029 for property acquired before that date, unless an agreement is made between the counties to maintain the exemption. Additionally, it clarifies that certain agencies, like those involved in transportation reinvestment zones or community development projects, are generally exempt from some property acquisition rules, but they cannot facilitate a county violating the new inter-county property acquisition requirements. The bill also makes minor adjustments to definitions and exemptions related to property tax.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0445.html