Housing assistance in Utah

Where to apply for rental assistance and vouchers

Section 8 vouchers and public housing are run by local public housing agencies (PHAs). Each keeps its own waiting list, so apply to every agency serving places you could live. The state housing finance agency funds affordable apartments and homebuyer programs but usually does not take voucher applications.

Ask each agency: Is the waiting list open? How do I apply, and how will you contact me? Never pay to apply or to move up a list. See how to apply for Section 8 and how waiting lists work.

Programs and free legal help in Utah

No statewide emergency rent program? Most rent help is local. Call 211 and ask which county, charity, or community action programs are taking applications now. See emergency rental assistance.

Key tenant laws in Utah

Statewide rules for most private rentals. Cities, counties, subsidized housing, and your lease can add protections, and some rules have exceptions. Read the linked law before relying on a deadline.

Security deposit limit

No statutory cap on the amount. If any part of the deposit is non-refundable, that must be stated in writing when the deposit is taken.

Utah Code 57-17-1 to 57-17-5 (see 57-17-2)

Deposit return deadline

Within 30 days after the renter moves out and returns possession, the landlord must mail or deliver the balance of the deposit and any prepaid rent, with a written itemized explanation of each deduction. Deductions may cover rent, damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, fees in the contract and cleaning. If the landlord misses the deadline, the renter can serve a statutory 'Tenant's Notice to Provide Deposit Disposition'. A landlord who then fails to comply within 5 business days owes the full deposit plus a $100 penalty.

Utah Code 57-17-3, 57-17-5

Notice before an eviction for unpaid rent

3 business days' written notice to pay the rent and other amounts due or move out. Weekends and court holidays are not counted. The notice may be served any time after rent is due.

Utah Code 78B-6-802(1)(c)

Landlord entry notice

Unless the rental agreement provides otherwise, at least 24 hours' notice before the landlord enters the unit.

Utah Code 57-22-4(2)

Rent increases and rent control

State law preempts local rent control. A county, city or town may not control rents or fees on private residential property without the Legislature's express approval.

Utah Code 57-20-1

If the landlord won’t make repairs

The renter serves a written 'notice of deficient condition' that names the chosen remedy. If the landlord does not take substantial action within 3 calendar days (habitability problems) or 10 calendar days (lease requirements), the renter may repair and deduct up to 2 months' rent, keeping receipts, or choose rent abatement, which ends the lease and requires the landlord to refund the deposit and prepaid rent. Dangerous conditions must be addressed within 24 hours. The renter must be current on rent and meet other renter duties to use these remedies.

Utah Code 57-22-6, 57-22-5

This is general information, not legal advice. If you have a notice or court papers, contact legal aid right away. See facing eviction, security deposit rights, and repairs and habitability.

Phone lines that serve Utah

• Shelter, rent help, and local services211
• HUD-approved housing counseling800-569-4287
• Housing discrimination complaints (HUD)800-669-9777
• Energy assistance referral (LIHEAP)866-674-6327
• Veterans at risk of homelessness877-424-3838
• Domestic violence hotline800-799-7233

More local contacts: HUD’s Utah resource page.

Next steps

1. Urgent? If you need shelter tonight or have an eviction court date, start with urgent housing help.
2. Behind on rent: call 211 and apply to several programs at once. Use our payment plan letter to propose terms to your landlord in writing.
3. Long-term help: apply to every housing agency above, plus income-restricted apartments. Gather your documents first.
4. Check affordability: use the rent affordability calculator or the Section 8 rent calculator.

Sources

Checked October 10, 2026. Laws, programs, and agency websites change; confirm details with the agency or court before relying on them. Report a correction.

1. Utah Code 57-17-2 Non-refundable depositUtah State Legislature
2. Utah Code 57-17-3 Deductions from deposit; time for return (eff. 5/7/2025)Utah State Legislature
3. Utah Code 57-17-5 Failure to return depositUtah State Legislature
4. Utah Code 78B-6-802 Unlawful detainer by tenant (eff. 5/6/2026)Utah State Legislature
5. Utah Code 57-22-4 Owner's dutiesUtah State Legislature
6. Utah Code 57-22-5 Renter's dutiesUtah State Legislature
7. Utah Code 57-22-6 Renter remediesUtah State Legislature
8. Utah Code 57-20-1 Rent and fee control prohibitionUtah State Legislature
9. Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) ProgramUtah Department of Workforce Services
10. Utah Legal ServicesUtah Legal Services
11. Utah Legal Services Office LocationsUtah Legal Services
12. Eviction Information for TenantsUtah State Courts
13. HousingUtah State Courts
14. PHA Contact Information – UtahU.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
15. Housing ConnectHousing Connect
16. Housing Authority of Salt Lake CityHousing Authority of Salt Lake City
17. Housing Authority of Utah CountyHousing Authority of Utah County