Quick Answer
Yes. Under Utah law, landlords must follow a specific process before disposing of a former tenant’s personal property, including providing written notice and a storage period. We recommend confirming this process is complete before scheduling a trash-out.
Tenant Property and Utah Abandoned Property Law
Yes. Under Utah law, landlords must follow a specific legal process before disposing of a former tenant’s personal property. This applies whether the tenant was evicted, abandoned the unit, or simply left belongings behind after moving out.
The general process under Utah Code § 78B-6-816 requires the landlord to post a notice of abandonment in a conspicuous place on the property and mail a copy to the tenant’s last known address. The tenant then has 15 calendar days from the date of the notice to reclaim their belongings by paying the landlord’s reasonable moving and storage costs. If the tenant was evicted through the court process, they may have the right to retrieve certain essential items — including medical equipment, prescription medications, financial documents, and identification — within 5 business days without paying storage fees.
We recommend confirming with your legal counsel or property management company that all required notice and storage periods have been completed before scheduling a trash-out. Once you have clearance, we handle the removal.
What This Means for Property Managers
The abandoned property process exists to protect both tenants and landlords. Skipping or shortcutting the notice period can expose your management company to liability — even if the items left behind look like obvious trash. Courts have ruled against landlords who disposed of tenant property without following the proper notice procedures.
As a junk removal provider, we don’t make the legal determination on whether property can be removed. That’s your responsibility (or your attorney’s). Our role starts after you’ve confirmed that the notice period is complete and the items are cleared for disposal. This protects both your company and ours.
For properties with frequent turnover, having a standardized process for abandoned property notices — including templates, timelines, and documentation — can prevent delays and reduce legal risk. Many of the management companies we work with in Salt Lake City have this process built into their move-out workflow.
Items That Can Be Disposed of Immediately
Utah law does allow certain categories of items to be disposed of immediately upon determining that the premises have been abandoned, without waiting for the 15-day notice period. These include perishable goods, trash, chemicals, hazardous materials, and items with no apparent value. Animals found on the property must be reported to local animal control, which will take custody within one business day.
However, the line between “trash” and “personal property” isn’t always obvious — and erring on the side of caution is always the safer approach. When in doubt, follow the notice process.
Key Takeaways