On March 25, 2025, Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed House Bill 430 (HB 430) into law, further tightening the state’s restrictions on foreign purchases of real property. This amendment to Utah’s foreign ownership law is part of a broader trend sweeping across the United States, with many states reevaluating and strengthening their regulations on foreign land acquisitions.
Utah’s journey towards stricter foreign ownership laws began in 2023 with the enactment of the Restrictions on Foreign Acquisitions of Land Act. This law prohibited certain foreign entities, particularly those identified by the U.S. Department of Defense as Chinese military companies, from acquiring Utah land, including agricultural and public lands. The legislation aimed to safeguard national security and protect strategic assets from foreign influence.
In 2024, Utah expanded its restrictions with House Bill 516 (HB 516), which broadened the list of restricted foreign entities to include those owned or controlled by the governments of China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia. HB 516 also introduced a reporting mechanism for county recorders to flag potential violations and established a process for the Utah Department of Public Safety to investigate and address these cases.
HB 430 builds upon these previous efforts by targeting individuals or entities acting on behalf of restricted foreign entities. The new law prohibits any person from purchasing or leasing Utah land using funds provided by or under the direction of a restricted foreign entity. This provision is designed to close loopholes and prevent shell companies from circumventing the restrictions.
The implications of HB 430 are significant. The law’s broad definition of “person” suggests that both individuals and business entities, including U.S. citizens and domestic companies, could be subject to its provisions. This means that anyone acting on behalf of a restricted foreign entity could face severe penalties, including up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Additionally, the law requires individuals purchasing Utah land to disclose any military service with a restricted foreign entity, further emphasizing the state’s focus on national security.
Utah is not alone in its efforts to restrict foreign ownership of real property. In 2025, Kentucky enacted a new foreign ownership law, and Idaho amended its existing restrictions. These developments reflect a growing concern among states about the potential threats posed by foreign investments in strategic assets, particularly agricultural and forestland.
As more states consider similar legislation, the landscape of foreign ownership in the U.S. is likely to evolve rapidly. For those involved in agriculture, real estate, or international investments, staying informed about these changes is crucial. The National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) is tracking these developments and providing updates on its website, offering a valuable resource for navigating the complex world of foreign ownership regulations.