So another one of Utah’s communities just imposed restrictions on development due to water concerns – Town of Newton puts hold on new water connections . This is getting to be a trend, and I think the numbers are only going to grow!  Other communities currently with water-based development moratoriums include Oakley, Henefer, and Wolf Creek (Weber County).  Others are considering it.

It’s certainly a way to put a halt to new development in town.  And with so many complaining about the pace and impacts of growth in our communities, well…

Utah state code and court rulings state and imply that temporary land use regulations or pending ordinances can only be in effect for a maximum of six months.  Some of these water situations are taking much longer than that to resolve.  Is that legal?

The upcoming ULUI Land Use conference will devote the Tuesday afternoon session to water and land use issues, including the imposing of development moratoriums.  Rob Patterson, Oakley City Attorney, and others, will address this topic, among others on the water front 😊.  Be sure to check out the latest info about the conference on this very website (see link headers above).