The bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to clarify definitions and regulations related to domestic water use. It redefines "domestic purposes" to encompass water for homes, livestock, and limited irrigation, while imposing new restrictions on water use for mobile home parks, apartments, and commercial establishments unless they adhere to specific diversion rate and volume criteria. Additionally, the bill allows for multiple water rights for domestic purposes to be established from a single point of diversion, provided the usage is strictly for residential in-home activities.

Moreover, the bill introduces enforcement mechanisms for violations of domestic water use limits, including a civil penalty structure for excessive use and the authority for the director of the Department of Water Resources to issue notices of violation. It mandates inspections of wells and withdrawal devices for domestic purposes and outlines conditions for permits required for new diversions in subdivisions. A new section, 31-3805, is added to enhance water management within subdivisions, particularly regarding integration with municipal providers and the use of surface water for irrigation. The bill also emphasizes the importance of considering the impact of proposed amendments on groundwater sources and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 42-111, 42-227, 42-351, 42-1805, 31-3805, 31-3806, 50-1334, 67-6508, 67-6537
Engrossment 1: 42-111, 42-227, 42-351, 42-1805, 31-3805, 31-3806, 50-1334, 67-6508, 67-6537