The bill amends section 61-04-15.4 of the North Dakota Century Code to allow permitholders to change the purpose of use of a conditional or perfected water permit without affecting the priority date, contingent upon approval from the Department of Water Resources. The application process for such changes will be handled similarly to that of a conditional water permit application.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the Department of Water Resources may approve the proposed change if it does not adversely affect the rights of other appropriators. The changes in purpose of use can be made either to a superior use as determined by the order of priority or to livestock use or fish, wildlife, and recreation use for a reservoir that does not authorize any withdrawal of water.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 61-04-15.4
Enrollment: 61-04-15.4