Checkpoints
Utah Code 77-23-104 — only with a magistrate's written authority and a written plan
An officer may stop a vehicle and detain its occupants under a warrant, on probable cause, on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity, in an emergency, or at an administrative traffic checkpoint a magistrate has authorized.
Who handles this in Utah: legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Utah directory.
- A command level officer submits a signed written plan giving the checkpoint's location, date and time, which cars are stopped, its purpose, staffing, signs and the officers' instructions.
- The magistrate independently determines that the plan minimizes delay, intrusion, fear and officer discretion and maximizes safety.
- The checkpoint's primary purpose is detecting impaired drivers, checking plates, registrations, insurance or licenses, wildlife violations, or another purpose distinguishable from general crime control.
Intentionally and knowingly passing an authorized checkpoint without stopping is a class B misdemeanor.
Sources for this section (3)
- Utah Code 77-23-103 — Circumstances permitting an administrative traffic checkpoint
- Utah Code 77-23-104 — Written plan -- Approval of magistrate
- Utah Code 77-23-105 — Failure to stop -- Criminal liability
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Utah attorney.