Big news out of Santa Clara this month, and it's worth a few minutes of your time if you own, buy, or build anywhere near a slope, a wash, or a cliff in Southern Utah.

What Happened

On Nov. 4, 2026, the Santa Clara City Council passed Ordinance No. 2026-22, adding Chapter 15.34, Geologic Hazards, to city code. The city's notice says it took effect when it was posted on the state's Public Notice Website on Nov. 5 (Utah Public Notice Website).

Per the planning director's memo in the council packet, Santa Clara didn't have a geologic hazards ordinance before this, and the draft was based on the Utah Geological Survey's model ordinance (Nov. 4 agenda and packet). It follows the Sensitive Lands Overlay Zone (Chapter 17.80) the council adopted on Oct. 14.

What the Packet Draft Covers

Here's what the version in the council packet says. The adopted copy is on file with the City Recorder, so check it for final wording.

• Hazard study areas. These include landslide and slope instability, flooding and erosion, liquefaction, and rockfall areas.
• Reports before development. Applicants for plats, site plans, and certain permits in a study area, or where hazards are known or readily apparent, must submit a site-specific geologic hazard report.
• A safe buildable area. Every lot or parcel in a study area must have one, plus access that's free of unreasonable hazards.
• Recorded disclosure. When a report is required, the owner records a notice that runs with the land, stating the parcel is in a study area and a report is on file with the city.
• Existing homes. Remodels that don't expand the footprint or foundation and don't change the use don't have to comply. Tearing down and replacing a home does.

Why it matters locally: in draft Oct. 14 minutes included in the same packet, the city's consultant noted that of the 30 homes lost in the 2005 flooding, 28 were lost to erosion.

If You're Buying

This is a good thing for buyers. More information up front means fewer surprises later.

• Look up the lot. The Utah Geological Survey's free Geologic Hazards Portal shows mapped hazards like landslides, flooding, and problem soils. UGS is clear that a blank spot on the map doesn't mean there's no hazard.
• Check the title work. A recorded hazard notice or plat note is something to read closely, not skim.
• Ask about reports. If a lot needed a geologic or geotechnical report, ask for a copy before you're past your due diligence deadline.
• Use your inspection period. For hillside or wash-adjacent homes, our suggestion would be to talk with a qualified geotechnical engineer or Utah-licensed Professional Geologist, not just a general home inspector.

If You're Selling

If you already have a geotechnical report, a soils report, or drainage work records, pull them together now. Organized paperwork answers buyer questions before they turn into hesitation.

If your home sits on a slope or near a wash, be upfront about what you know. Honest disclosure builds trust, and it helps the deal hold together.

If You Own and Plan to Build

Thinking about an addition, a casita, or a rebuild in Santa Clara? Talk to the city's planning department early. In the packet draft, a new footprint can bring those rules into play, but verify the adopted wording with Santa Clara City before you spend money on plans.

Our Take

Southern Utah's red rock, cliffs, and washes are a big part of why people love living here. Rules like this don't change that. They just put better information in front of buyers and owners, which we're always for.

Not in Santa Clara? Rain and water are worth a look everywhere, too. We covered what a wet season can tell you about a home in this recent post.

Have questions about a specific property or lot? Reach out to us here. We're happy to help!

Sources

1. Santa Clara City Council, Notice of Ordinance (Ordinance No. 2026-22, Chapter 15.34, Geologic Hazards, passed Nov. 4, 2026), posted Nov. 5, 2026, Utah Public Notice Website: https://www.utah.gov/pmn/sitemap/notice/1120881.html
2. Santa Clara City Council, Nov. 4, 2026 meeting agenda and full packet (planning director memo, Chapter 15.34 working draft dated Oct. 19, 2026, draft Oct. 14, 2026 minutes), Utah Public Notice Website: https://www.utah.gov/pmn/sitemap/notice/1119507.html
3. Utah Geological Survey, Utah Geologic Hazards Portal: https://maps.geology.utah.gov/hazards/

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