Utah Security Deposit Law
Return deadline, statute, and penalties for Utah renters.
Return deadline
30 days
Penalty for late or wrongful withholding
Amount withheld plus a $100 civil penalty; court costs and attorney fees if bad faith
The tenant must first serve the landlord a written notice requesting the deposit.
Governing statute
Utah Code §§ 57-17-3, 57-17-5
Did your Utah landlord miss the deadline?
Enter your move-out date and deposit to see your exact deadline, whether it has passed, and the maximum penalty. It's free.
Check my Utah deadlineUtah security deposit questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Utah?
Under Utah Code §§ 57-17-3, 57-17-5, a Utah landlord generally has 30 days to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if a Utah landlord returns the deposit late?
Amount withheld plus a $100 civil penalty; court costs and attorney fees if bad faith. Courts usually decide whether a penalty applies, and many states require showing the landlord acted in bad faith. The tenant must first serve the landlord a written notice requesting the deposit.
Can a Utah landlord deduct from my deposit?
Landlords can generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, and must explain deductions in writing.
How do I demand my security deposit back in Utah?
Send your landlord a written demand letter that cites Utah Code §§ 57-17-3, 57-17-5, states the amount owed, and sets a deadline to pay. Send it by certified mail and keep a copy. If the landlord doesn't pay, the letter is useful evidence in small claims court.
Last reviewed October 21, 2026. Read the official text of Utah Code §§ 57-17-3, 57-17-5. This page is general information, not legal advice. See our terms of use.