When a Recount Is Automatic
In Utah, an automatic recount isn't triggered by a close margin, which separates it from many other states. Instead, the state automatically initiates a recount for one simple reason: a perfect tie. If
two or more candidates for the same office receive the exact same number of votes, an official recount is required by law. This applies to races for a single office as well as at-large races where a tie means someone must be eliminated. This state-mandated recount must be completed within 10 days after the election results are officially certified. Some municipalities using ranked-choice voting also have provisions for automatic recounts if specific margin thresholds are met during tabulation rounds.
Requesting a Recount When It's Close
So what happens if an election is incredibly close but not tied? In that case, a candidate or group of voters can step in and request a recount. A losing candidate has the right to request a recount if the difference in votes between them and the winner is 0.25% or less of the total votes cast in that race. For very small elections with 400 or fewer total votes, a margin of just one vote is enough for a candidate to request a recount. A similar rule applies to ballot propositions; if a measure passes or fails by that same 0.25% margin, any 10 voters who participated in that election can file a request. The window to file is tight—requests must typically be submitted within three to seven days after the official canvass, depending on the election.
The Big Question: Who Pays?
The cost of a recount depends on who initiated it. For automatic recounts triggered by a tie, the government foots the bill. For statewide or multi-county races, the state pays; for local races, the relevant political subdivision covers the cost. The same applies to recounts requested by a candidate who meets the 0.25% margin requirement—the costs are covered by the state or local government, not the candidate. However, if a group of 10 voters requests a recount for a ballot proposition, they are required to pay all associated costs. This distinction ensures that legitimate, close candidate races can be verified without placing a financial burden on the campaigns, while still allowing a pathway for citizens to fund a second look at ballot measures.
What the Recount Process Actually Looks Like
A recount isn't a free-for-all. It’s a supervised and methodical process overseen by the relevant election officer, such as the county clerk or lieutenant governor. Generally, ballots are recounted using the same method they were first counted with. Since most of Utah uses optical scanners to tabulate hand-marked paper ballots, a recount typically involves re-scanning those same ballots. The process also includes re-examining any uncounted or unopened absentee ballots to ensure they were handled correctly according to the law. It is a verification of the original count, not an entirely new style of counting. Once the recount is complete, the board of canvassers convenes again to certify the new, official results.
