Daniel adopts 180-day moratorium on development in P 160 Preservation Zone

The Town of Daniel adopted Ordinance DO-2026-08-21 on Aug. 21, 2026, enacting a temporary moratorium on development in the P 160 Preservation Zone. The ordinance, which the council said is intended to preserve the status quo while the town completes and updates its general plan and zoning regulations, states the moratorium may last up to 180 days unless the council ends it earlier.

The council reading of the ordinance cited Utah Code §10-20-504 as authority to enact a temporary land-use regulation when a compelling countervailing public interest exists. The ordinance text preserves vested rights for applicants whose applications were complete and fees paid before the effective date, allows ministerial and legally required procedural actions, and authorizes emergency work to address immediate threats when necessary. The chair said the ordinance would take effect upon signatures and posting; council members voted unanimously. As the motion to enact the moratorium was made (mover not specified in the transcript) and seconded, the vote was recorded: "Bennett, yes; Walton, yes; Grady, yes; Gross, yes; Kohler, yes." The council directed the town clerk to publish or post the ordinance as required by town and state law.

Why it matters: proponents and several residents told the council they want a pause to ensure the general plan and P160 regulations reflect parcel sizes, environmental constraints, and local priorities before intensive industrial uses are approved. The ordinance directs staff, consultants, the planning commission and council to complete planning work, seek public input, and consider permanent amendments while the moratorium is in effect.