The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating Section 30305, which outlines activities that do not require a permit for wetland use. Key insertions include clarifications on the types of activities allowed without a permit, such as fishing, hunting, and certain agricultural practices, while also specifying that minor drainage does not include significant alterations to wetland areas. The bill emphasizes that activities must be part of an established ongoing operation to qualify for exemption from permitting, and it introduces new definitions for terms like "utility line" and "agricultural drain."

Additionally, the bill removes outdated language and clarifies existing regulations, ensuring that maintenance of existing structures and certain agricultural practices are not subject to regulation if they meet specified criteria. It also establishes that the burden of proof lies with the department to demonstrate that a wetland was created incidentally and should be regulated. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the permitting process for specific activities while maintaining environmental protections for wetlands.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 324.30305