Salt Lake City revisits business nuisance ordinance following significant adjustments

February 21, 2026 - 03:13

Following substantial public feedback, Salt Lake City officials have reintroduced a revised business nuisance ordinance aimed at addressing establishments that persistently generate police and fire calls. The new proposal comes after an earlier version faced significant criticism from local business owners and community advocates.

The core intent remains to create a formal process for dealing with properties that are a repeated drain on public safety resources. However, the updated draft incorporates key adjustments to address concerns about fairness and proportionality. Notably, the revised ordinance raises the threshold for action, requiring a higher number of verified nuisance incidents within a defined period before the city can intervene. This change aims to distinguish between chronic problems and isolated incidents.

Furthermore, the new language emphasizes a graduated, collaborative approach. The process would now mandate earlier and more direct communication between city departments and business owners to identify and mitigate issues before escalating to potential penalties or closures. Officials stress that the goal is not to punish legitimate businesses but to provide a clear pathway to resolve persistent problems that impact neighborhood safety and quality of life. The city council is expected to review the revised ordinance in the coming weeks, with further public discussion anticipated before any vote is taken.