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Utah regulatory sandboxes: a path to test frontier technology.
Utah is putting innovation policy into practice by giving companies structured ways to test new ideas with regulators. Its general regulatory sandbox and AI sandbox connect real-world demonstrations with evidence that can inform future policy. For frontier tech, deep tech and hard tech companies, these programs offer a way to explore regulatory barriers alongside technical and commercial questions.
CROSS-INDUSTRY INNOVATION
Utah general regulatory sandbox
Administered by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development’s Office of Regulatory Relief, this program lets approved businesses test products, services or production methods under agreed regulatory relief. The initial demonstration period is one year, with a possible extension of up to 12 months.
When to explore it: An existing Utah regulatory requirement is a barrier to testing a new offering. Start with a consultation and a proposal identifying the specific relief needed. Participants provide reporting, and the office monitors consumer outcomes to inform regulatory reform.
The Department of Commerce’s AI sandbox, formally the Artificial Intelligence Learning Laboratory, supports supervised testing of AI products. A written agreement with the office and relevant regulator specifies the regulatory adjustment, test scope, safeguards, user disclosures and reporting.
When to explore it: An AI product raises a regulatory question that could be evaluated through a limited pilot. The initial period is up to 12 months, with up to two 12-month extensions. Requirements outside the agreement remain applicable; participation is not a state endorsement.
Why it matters for Utah’s frontier tech leadership: Companies need practical pathways to demonstrate what new technology can do. These programs make policy part of that development process: companies test within defined boundaries, regulators learn from results, and policymakers gain evidence for updating rules as technology advances.
