The bill introduces a new section to chapter 46A-10A of South Dakota law, allowing counties to administratively approve certain drainage applications through a designated drainage administrator. This administrator is empowered to grant or deny permits for drainage projects that outlet into specific waterways, including named creeks, permanent or intermittent streams, public or private road right-of-ways, and unnamed waterways. The bill outlines the conditions under which these permits can be granted, such as requiring written approval from affected landowners and appropriate road authorities for certain drainage routes.

Additionally, the bill defines "affected landowners" as those who are upstream within half a mile, downstream within one mile, or within a quarter mile surrounding the project. All other drainage permit applications that do not meet the specified criteria must be addressed by the board or commission following the established permit system. This legislative change aims to streamline the drainage permitting process while ensuring that landowner interests are considered.