This bill addresses the use and withdrawal of Iowa's surface and groundwater resources, focusing on permitting requirements. It amends the definition of "beneficial use" to specify that it refers to the application of water for lawful and useful purposes in reasonable quantities necessary for efficient utilization, while also removing the previous definition of waste. The bill enhances the readability of the declaration of policy and planning requirements by eliminating outdated planning language and time-limited requirements, including the removal of the obligation for the Department of Natural Resources to submit biennial progress reports on floodplain mapping.

Additionally, the bill establishes that any person withdrawing water from surface or groundwater sources or diverting water into underground watercourses must obtain a permit, with exceptions for nonregulated uses. It prohibits the approval of permit applications if the proposed use would adversely impact water sources, natural flows, or landowners, and mandates denial if the use is not deemed beneficial or threatens the long-term availability of water. The bill also repeals certain sections of the Code related to water permitting and administration to align with these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 455B.172, 455B.261, 455B.262, 455B.264, 455B.263, 455B.254, 455B.265, 460.302