Stolen Vehicle Amendments

Fewer theft-report barriers, with rental limits

Beginning May 6, 2026, Utah local governments cannot block theft reports for vehicles, vessels, or outboard motors through unauthorized rules. Banned barriers include unauthorized waiting periods, written demands, certified notices, notarization, and supervisor approval. For rental vehicles, local governments may delay reports until 48 hours after the agreed return time. This exception requires a written rental agreement naming the return time and authorized operator. No delay is allowed when there is evidence of theft, including unauthorized use, fraud, or an express refusal to return. Other evidence includes credible information about criminal use, an unlikely voluntary return, or facts showing intent to keep the vehicle permanently. Local governments may require reasonable proof of ownership or lawful possession, the rental agreement and its expiration, and nonreturn without a lawful extension. They may also require proof of reasonable attempts to contact the renter using the agreement’s contact information. Accepting late payment alone does not block a theft report. Owners and lienholders may report to police where the theft occurred; embezzlement reports require the owner to first obtain an arrest warrant. Anyone who made the report must notify that police agency after recovery, and police must notify the state’s criminal investigations division.