Frequently asked questions
Find the answers to our most common questions below, or call our 24/7 hotline.
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The newborn should be dropped off at a Utah hospital. To receive the best care available, the newborn should be left with hospital staff. Hospital staff will be wearing the proper hospital identification or name badge. Tell the hospital staff that you want to give up your newborn under the Utah Safe Haven law.
Visit our Hospitals page for locations in Utah.
No, you can take your newborn to any hospital in Utah.
Hospitals will accept newborns that are 90 days and younger.
You can take your newborn or you can ask someone to do it for you. The law states, "that a parent or a parent’s designee" can bring a newborn to the hospital.
You do not have to tell the people at the hospital your name or anything else. Health information may be helpful for your baby so the adoptive parents are aware of any possible conditions the baby may have or may inherit. If you wish to provide any health information about the infant please fill out the Optional Medical Questionnaire form.
The police will not be called if you bring your baby to the hospital.
The hospital will provide any medical care your newborn requires. Utah Division of Child and Family Services will place your child for adoption into a safe, loving home. There are many great families waiting to adopt children.
Visit the Utah Code page for the complete law. The Utah Newborn Safe Haven law, sponsored by former state Senator Patrice Arent, passed in 2001.
No, leave the baby at an open hospital.
Given the anonymous nature of the law, the only way a biological father might be notified is if he is registered with Utah Department of Health and Human Services' Paternity Registry.
Anyone interested in adopting a newborn who has been given up must apply with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.
Have more questions?
Call the 24-hour hotline at 866-458-0058 or request additional resources by emailing us at [email protected]
Find a hospital