UT HB0064

Counties of fourth, fifth, or sixth class with trust lands within their boundaries may nominate culturally or scientifically significant sites (archaeological, historical, paleontological, or scientific) for preservation consideration by the School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration director.

Nominated sites cannot exceed 640 acres or include lands containing coal, oil, gas, hydrocarbon, mineral, or geothermal resources.

The director must notify qualified counties of the nomination opportunity by January 1, 2027, and counties have 24 months from notification to submit up to two nominations.

The director must approve or reject nominations within 180 days; rejected nominations may be corrected and resubmitted.

When an approved site faces imminent changes, the director may consult with the county on preservation options, restrict or modify development plans when commercially feasible, or use deed restrictions and protective covenants.