No Climbing Water or Radio Towers

Utah is not lacking on mountain peaks with views yet many residents including teens gravitate toward areas such as water or radio towers which may be off limits for climbing.

Water towers

Sometimes climbing the same hill in the neighborhood loses its appeal and teens look for other areas to explore. One popular activity that is actually off limits is climbing tall structures such as water or radio towers. While most water towers are surrounded by barbed wire fencing and no trespassing signs, there are some that allow visitors. In the southwest city of St. George, the historic Red Hills Water Tower that overlooks downtown has been reinforced with safety railings and an upgraded staircase. Not only is it open to the public, it is also a popular place for swing dancers. Most of the other water towers throughout Utah are not as inviting.

Radio towers

Radio towers are another place where teens like to explore for great views. Unfortunately, just like most of the water towers throughout Utah, radio towers are off limits for climbing. In an effort to protect their property as well as avoid liability in case of accidents, radio towers are usually fenced and posted with no trespassing signs. This does not always stop the youth however and criminal charges could ensue from climbing off limit structures.

Trespassing

Water and radio towers are considered “non-dwellings” and trespassing on these properties can result in class B misdemeanor charges for teens. The youth need to be warned that although climbing structures like water or radio towers may be a famous pastime for many youth and even their parents, it is against the law to do so.