The bill amends South Dakota's drainage permit regulations by updating the maximum nonrefundable fee that can be charged when applying for a county drainage permit. The new legal language specifies that the fee must be established by the permitting authority and based on the administrative costs of regulating drainage activities, with a cap set at five hundred dollars. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the fee is to be paid only once with the application, except in cases where the permitted drainage is enlarged, rerouted, or modified, which would require a new permit.

Furthermore, the bill reinforces the requirement for a permit for any vested drainage rights not recorded under existing law if a permit system is in place in the respective county. It also stipulates that individuals or their contractors who drain water without the necessary permit are guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor, and courts may impose a civil penalty of up to one thousand dollars for each day of violation. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the permitting process while ensuring compliance with drainage regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/30/2025: 46A-10A-30
House Agriculture and Natural Resources Engrossed, 02/12/2025: 46A-10A-30
House Engrossed, 02/18/2025: 46A-10A-30
Enrolled, 03/03/2025: 46A-10A-30