Commission revisits subdivision rules, seeks clearer proof of water rights before approvals

Duchesne County commissioners returned to a recurring concern Sept. 9 about subdivision approvals and whether proposed lots have reliable water sources.

Shelley Brennan, planning staff and Tri County Health representatives outlined the regulatory background and said Tri County Health requires written verification of adequate water rights from the Division of Water Rights as part of non‑public well approvals. Commissioners and staff raised instances where applicants secure water rights paperwork or make variances to avoid drilling wells before subdivision approval, creating uncertainty about actual water availability.

Unidentified staff referenced a regional groundwater level study with USGS engagement; county staff asked for coordination so future decisions about land division can be grounded in aquifer data. One commissioner said, "I think we need to be more stringent than what is in statute and say, no. We want to make sure that we have the water available to meet the needs of future development." Another commissioner emphasized fairness to buyers who might purchase subdivided lots expecting water that may not be deliverable.

Why it matters: Subdivision approvals that permit new lots without firm access to long‑term water can expose buyers and the county to future service shortfalls and infrastructure costs. Commissioners discussed pursuing a county water master plan and seeking state funding to support the effort.

Next steps: Commissioners requested staff continue coordination with Tri County Health, the Division of Water Rights and regional studies (USGS) and pursue available state funding to support water‑element planning and a groundwater study.