The Utah Lieutenant Governor’s Office has received petitions for several areas, marking the first step in the process of creating new cities or towns. The office recently updated its records regarding various incorporation efforts across the state.
The incorporation petition process
An incorporation petition serves as the beginning of the municipal creation process. To move forward, sponsors must compile specific documents and information, including gathering signatures from individuals living within the proposed municipality.
Requirements for meeting signature thresholds
To meet requirements, signatures must total at least 7% of the assessed land value and 10% of the land area, calculated based on the acreage and value of each signer’s property. If these thresholds are met, a feasibility study is conducted, with results presented during a public hearing.
Steps following the public hearing
Following the completion of the public hearing, sponsors must gather additional signatures from registered voters within the proposed boundaries. These signatures must also meet the thresholds of 7% of the assessed land value and 10% of the land area. If these requirements are satisfied, the proposed incorporation is placed on a ballot for voters at the next election. The incorporation becomes an official city or town only if a majority vote is in favor.
List of current incorporation efforts
Current incorporation efforts involve several preliminary municipalities and proposed cities, including Wasatch Highlands, Town of Bear Canyon, City of Granite, Heritage Hills, Park City Tech, Willow, City of Nine Springs, River View, Echo Canyon, West Hills, Coal Creek, Ogden Valley, and Spring Lake.
