Self-Driving Cars and Drones: How Utah is (or Isn’t) Regulating New Technology

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Self-Driving Cars and Drones: How Utah is (or Isn't) Regulating New Technology

Utah permits operation of self-driving cars (autonomous vehicles) on public roads under H.B. 101, treating computer systems as legal “drivers” without requiring a human operator present for fully autonomous modes, though testing and deployment must comply with traffic laws.​

Drone Regulations

Utah regulates drones via the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SB 192 and HB 427), requiring state registration for commercial use, FAA compliance, and restrictions on flights over critical infrastructure, prisons, or during emergencies without permission. Privacy protections prohibit weaponized drones or surveillance without warrants, with local governments limited from stricter rules.​

Key Permissions and Limits

TechnologyAllowed OperationsRestrictions
Self-Driving CarsFull deployment, no human driver req. â€‹Liability on owner; DUI activation penalized â€‹
DronesRecreational/commercial with FAA rules â€‹No flights over crowds/prisons; registration for pros â€‹

Utah takes a permissive stance on new tech, prioritizing innovation over heavy regulation while aligning with federal standards.

SOURCES

[1](https://tech.co/logistics/which-states-are-self-driving-trucks-legal-guide)
[2](https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1798/text)
[3](https://www.govtech.com/policy/Self-Driving-Cars-Get-the-Greenlight-Under-New-Utah-Law.html)
[4](https://highwaysafety.utah.gov/other-focus-areas/autonomous-vehicles/)
[5](https://le.utah.gov/~2019/bills/static/HB0101.html)

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