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County flags liability risks if BLM approves commercial use of Tigard Flat airstrip
Summary
Commissioners relayed concerns raised by Utah Backcountry Pilots about a BLM-requested commercial use designation for Tigard Flat airstrip, with staff advising discretion because commercial use changes indemnity and insurance exposure.
A county representative relayed concerns that a recent BLM request to permit commercial use of the Tigard Flat airstrip could increase liability for the county as the airport operator if the county were treated as responsible for a commercial operation.
Chair said a Utah Backcountry Pilots representative told the county there was "a request to the BLM for commercial use" of the Tigard Flat airstrip and that the pilot "expressed some concerns about liability mostly that once you start doing commercial, type use, liability creeps in." Staff and commissioners discussed the difference between recreational and commercial operations under Utah law, the role of indemnification and insurance and whether to recommend the change. One county speaker said the airport manager's recommendation was to not recommend commercial use absent clear indemnity or insurance arrangements.
Commissioners asked staff to review applicable definitions and insurance requirements and to confirm whether occasional cost‑sharing for fuel or transport would legally make a flight commercial under state rules. No formal action was taken; staff will provide follow‑up information.
